People make mistakes all of the time when dealing with personal finances basics. Some of the most wealth people in the world make mistakes, people in the middle class make mistakes and the poor make money mistakes. It is an almost unavoidable issue. The more poor you are, the more those mistakes can hurt you. What are some of the money mistakes people make? Let's learn more why this happens.
1. Neglecting Your Credit Scores
Credit scores or ratings are more pertinent today than ever, especially today with all kinds of people defaulting on their debts. Money lenders are incredibly cautious about to whom they will lend money.
Banks often look for low-risk customers. If you have a great credit score of 750 or above, banks will do almost anything for your business. A good credit score also means that they will give your excellent rates on mortgages, vehicle loans, personal loans and credit cards. Insurance brokers and possible landlords often times use credit ratings to determine potential applicants, for this reason it is crucial to maintain your credit.
Do you know your credit? There are many resources that can give you an idea of where you stand.They will help with your personal finances basics.
2. Carrying Credit Card Debt
If you carry a balance on your credit card you will end up paying ridiculous interest rates but you may also be affecting your chances to get a mortgage or some other type of loan , plus you are lowering your credit rating. If you hope to fix your personal finances you must eliminate any or all credit card debt. If you need help in eliminating your credit card debt get it.. Leverage is important for you if you want to get a loan and you need to have good credit. The more quickly you eliminate your credit cards the less likely you will ruin your rating.
3. Too Much Home or Auto Debt
In an ideal world you should never exceed thirty percent of your gross income when it comes to how much you are paying for your mortgage. On that same train of thought, how much you pay in transportation expenses should never be greater than 10% of your income (that includes insurance, fuel and repairs). If you are paying more in one or both of those categories, you are likely paying too much with regards to home or auto debt.
What should you do? You may need to rethink your living arrangements. If you are unable to afford a home or apartment that has a 30 year fixed rate mortgage, you can't afford the house. If you are unable to pay the sixty month loan for a vehicle, you should be driving that car. These are easy personal finance basics you must know.
4. You Tapped Into Your Emergency Fund or You Don't Have an Emergency Fund.
The importance of having cash in hand has become increasingly valuable with each passing day. You should have an emergency fund. It can assist with paying for unexpected expenses such as car maintenance and it will even cover your bills if you lose your job. Most people aim to create an amount that will cover 3 months living expenses. If you have a family that fund should cover six months. Clearly the more, the better. If you don't have an emergency fund, it's time to start making one. A way to get started is to have a goal of creating an amount of ,000 and then increase it to more.
Making mistakes with your finances is often inevitable. The less often you make those mistakes the better off you will be. If you are able to avoid these four crucial mistakes, you will start to enjoy the financial freedom you desire. Trying to live within your means, keeping on top of your debts and your credit are the personal finance basics you must take care of. If you start to set goals and tackle one of these things each month you will be rewarded financially more quickly then you think.
Friday, August 31, 2012
Monday, August 27, 2012
Advantages Of Filing For Bankruptcy
Bankruptcy is declared by a court and is a situation whereby a person or a business is unable to pay their outstanding debts. The court will then appoint a trustee who will take charge of any property the person owned after the declaration. The trustee is charged with the responsibility of selling the property and paying the creditors, probably based on the order of occurrence of the debts or any other basis. The advantages of doing this are many.
A creditor would follow up on their debtors until they pay. The debtor may however not have the money to pay the creditor, so it does not make much sense following up on someone who does not have the money to pay the debts. Being declared bankrupt prevents creditors from bothering and harassing the debtor for their money.
A debtor is able to protect their property due to this declaration. Normally each creditor would want their debt settled first, so when they go to court and win the case, the debtor is required to pay. The creditor can take the property and sell in order to regain their money. When one is declared bankrupt, the creditor cannot simply reclaim the property from the debtor but the trustee is in charge of settlement of the debts. In addition there are specific items that cannot be sold during bankruptcy to settle debts. This property is thus safeguarded.
The credit score of an individual who has many debts is usually very low. The person therefore is not able to access credit from different financial institutions. When a person is declared bankrupt their credit score is improved after some time since the debts that one may have had are declared null and void. One is able to build their credit again from scratch.
Every person requires a fresh start when things do not go well. After someone is bankrupt, some of their property is sold to settle their debts. Debts that may be outstanding after that are considered null and void. A person is able to begin a new life without any debts.
Before a person files for bankruptcy, they have to evaluate all available options and settle on the option that best suits their needs. One should also be aware that some obligations cannot be cancelled, such as alimony payments, income taxes, and child support among others. Being declared bankrupt may therefore be the best decision that an individual makes or the worst decision that they make.
A creditor would follow up on their debtors until they pay. The debtor may however not have the money to pay the creditor, so it does not make much sense following up on someone who does not have the money to pay the debts. Being declared bankrupt prevents creditors from bothering and harassing the debtor for their money.
A debtor is able to protect their property due to this declaration. Normally each creditor would want their debt settled first, so when they go to court and win the case, the debtor is required to pay. The creditor can take the property and sell in order to regain their money. When one is declared bankrupt, the creditor cannot simply reclaim the property from the debtor but the trustee is in charge of settlement of the debts. In addition there are specific items that cannot be sold during bankruptcy to settle debts. This property is thus safeguarded.
The credit score of an individual who has many debts is usually very low. The person therefore is not able to access credit from different financial institutions. When a person is declared bankrupt their credit score is improved after some time since the debts that one may have had are declared null and void. One is able to build their credit again from scratch.
Every person requires a fresh start when things do not go well. After someone is bankrupt, some of their property is sold to settle their debts. Debts that may be outstanding after that are considered null and void. A person is able to begin a new life without any debts.
Before a person files for bankruptcy, they have to evaluate all available options and settle on the option that best suits their needs. One should also be aware that some obligations cannot be cancelled, such as alimony payments, income taxes, and child support among others. Being declared bankrupt may therefore be the best decision that an individual makes or the worst decision that they make.
Friday, August 24, 2012
Planet Wealth Scam
Planet Wealth is an independent investment company that is run by a group of private investors who have a long history of experience and success with stock market investing. Many people are under the impression that most investment services like planet wealth are a scam, so I decided to do some homework on planet wealth to find out whether or not they were in fact a scam or actually offered a reliable investment service. Over the past year, I have researched the planet wealth trades and results, and 3 months ago I joined the "Renting Australian Shares" subscription service which has enabled me to gain a good overall picture of how planet wealth operates.
How Does The Planet Wealth Service Work
The planet wealth professional traders use six stock market strategies for investing. Planet wealth traders actually invest their own money and trade in all of these six strategies, which I believe really says something for the honesty of any investment company... any company who does not actually invest their own money in the strategies they are providing to members is more than likely a scam in my opinion, planet wealth walk the walk so to speak.
When you join one or more of these six strategies, every time planet wealth traders identify and place a trade on their own account, you will be sent these trade details by SMS and Email immediately. It is then your choice to place the same trade using your stock broker. If you do not have your own broker, planet wealth will provide you with a list of their recommended brokers, which I would strongly suggest doing, as these brokers know the exact trade that planet wealth have just placed, and you can basically tell them to copy the same trade.
Alternatively, you can use a free service provided by planet wealth called Auto-Trader. This service is a great option for people who wish to have their stock portfolios placed on virtual auto-pilot. The way it works is this... When you join up with the planet wealth stockbroker who runs the auto-trader service, simply let the stockbroker know that you would like to use the auto-trader service with your account. When planet wealth traders place a trade on their own account, this trade will automatically be placed on your account at the same time. This effectively means that you are placing the same trades as some of the most experienced traders in the world without actually having to lift a finger... sound too good to be true? I can guarantee from experience that this is no scam, this service is 100% free with your subscription to any of the six strategies. Each strategy will only cost you US per month, and you can join one or more strategies.
The Planet Wealth Strategies
Renting Australian Shares Strategy - Focuses on creating a consistent monthly income by renting out the shares we own on a monthly basis, while having our capital insured at around 80%.
Renting US Stocks Strategy - Basically the same as the Australian strategy, but requires a smaller amount of capital, due to the minimum amount of stocks required to purchase... 100 stocks in the US, compared to 1000 shares in Australia.
Share Purchase Plan Strategy - This is a strategy not widely known, or used by the majority of investors. This strategy can produce some very profitable results and is designed to make regular income, with very limited risk using a small amount of capital.
Protected Equity Strategy - With this strategy our risk is "fixed" with every trade while the profit potential is unlimited. The beauty of this strategy is that we use the leverage of 100% finance to buy our stocks. All stocks are then insured which guarantees we cannot lose money from a share price drop.
Options Spread Strategy - This strategy has a fixed risk & fixed return for every trade. The minimum target 'Return on Risk' is 40% per trade, and it is common to see returns for successful trades in the 60-90% range.
US Option Trading Strategy - This strategy has a reasonably high risk factor, but can produce some massive profits. Only a small bank is required which makes this strategy a great diversifier for your portfolio.
After being a member of planet wealth for a number of months, and analysing their trades and results for the past 12 months, I can genuinely say that I do not believe planet wealth is a scam of any kind. I have always received fast replies to any questions I have asked, and they seem like a company who stand behind their product. My personal results have made me truly excited about my future in stock market investing, as I now use the same trades the professionals are placing, and I no longer have to leave my investing choices up to pure chance, luck or hope.
If you use the auto-trader service with any strategy for 12 months and fail to make more profit than you have paid in subscription fees, planet wealth will refund 100% of your subscription fees without question. This in itself proves very well that that Planet Wealth is not a scam.
How Does The Planet Wealth Service Work
The planet wealth professional traders use six stock market strategies for investing. Planet wealth traders actually invest their own money and trade in all of these six strategies, which I believe really says something for the honesty of any investment company... any company who does not actually invest their own money in the strategies they are providing to members is more than likely a scam in my opinion, planet wealth walk the walk so to speak.
When you join one or more of these six strategies, every time planet wealth traders identify and place a trade on their own account, you will be sent these trade details by SMS and Email immediately. It is then your choice to place the same trade using your stock broker. If you do not have your own broker, planet wealth will provide you with a list of their recommended brokers, which I would strongly suggest doing, as these brokers know the exact trade that planet wealth have just placed, and you can basically tell them to copy the same trade.
Alternatively, you can use a free service provided by planet wealth called Auto-Trader. This service is a great option for people who wish to have their stock portfolios placed on virtual auto-pilot. The way it works is this... When you join up with the planet wealth stockbroker who runs the auto-trader service, simply let the stockbroker know that you would like to use the auto-trader service with your account. When planet wealth traders place a trade on their own account, this trade will automatically be placed on your account at the same time. This effectively means that you are placing the same trades as some of the most experienced traders in the world without actually having to lift a finger... sound too good to be true? I can guarantee from experience that this is no scam, this service is 100% free with your subscription to any of the six strategies. Each strategy will only cost you US per month, and you can join one or more strategies.
The Planet Wealth Strategies
Renting Australian Shares Strategy - Focuses on creating a consistent monthly income by renting out the shares we own on a monthly basis, while having our capital insured at around 80%.
Renting US Stocks Strategy - Basically the same as the Australian strategy, but requires a smaller amount of capital, due to the minimum amount of stocks required to purchase... 100 stocks in the US, compared to 1000 shares in Australia.
Share Purchase Plan Strategy - This is a strategy not widely known, or used by the majority of investors. This strategy can produce some very profitable results and is designed to make regular income, with very limited risk using a small amount of capital.
Protected Equity Strategy - With this strategy our risk is "fixed" with every trade while the profit potential is unlimited. The beauty of this strategy is that we use the leverage of 100% finance to buy our stocks. All stocks are then insured which guarantees we cannot lose money from a share price drop.
Options Spread Strategy - This strategy has a fixed risk & fixed return for every trade. The minimum target 'Return on Risk' is 40% per trade, and it is common to see returns for successful trades in the 60-90% range.
US Option Trading Strategy - This strategy has a reasonably high risk factor, but can produce some massive profits. Only a small bank is required which makes this strategy a great diversifier for your portfolio.
After being a member of planet wealth for a number of months, and analysing their trades and results for the past 12 months, I can genuinely say that I do not believe planet wealth is a scam of any kind. I have always received fast replies to any questions I have asked, and they seem like a company who stand behind their product. My personal results have made me truly excited about my future in stock market investing, as I now use the same trades the professionals are placing, and I no longer have to leave my investing choices up to pure chance, luck or hope.
If you use the auto-trader service with any strategy for 12 months and fail to make more profit than you have paid in subscription fees, planet wealth will refund 100% of your subscription fees without question. This in itself proves very well that that Planet Wealth is not a scam.
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Panic Attacks, Guilt, And The Personality Of Your Superego
Guilt can be absolutely crippling for anyone, but it hits panic attack and anxiety sufferers particularly hard. We're so darned tough on ourselves, and hold ourselves accountable for so many things that simply aren't fair or reasonable. And that makes guilt a major obstacle to overcome when it comes to recovery. Well, let's have a look at this toxic phenomenon.
In any effort to examine guilt, Sigmund Freud and the psychoanalysts would submit one has to consider the superego; in effect, our active conscious. On the other end of Freud's structural spectrum is the id, home of our primal wishes. For the record, according to Freud, the interplay of the superego and id is managed by the ego. Now, some theorists would propose that one's superego can have, shall we say, a personality of its own; which can range from very easy-going to tough-as-nails. And within this context it would only make sense that a mentally/emotionally healthy person's superego would lend a hand in feeling good about self. Yes, this particular superego, like a good parent, would administer discipline when one has thought or behaved badly; and the punishment is generally delivered in the form of guilt. But when the individual makes sincere attempts at making-right their transgressions, the superego awards due credit and forgives. This is the psychoanalytic dynamic of self-forgiveness.
It would follow, then, that the tough-as-nails superego isn't so nurturing, as it pounds the individual with massive portions of guilt for a multiplicity of supposed offenses, causing one to constantly and desperately seek shelter. And each futile attempt at lightening the burden of guilt is greeted with truckloads of shame, instead of relief. Theoretically, it's this dynamic that greatly inhibits any sort of making things right, and, ultimately, leaves the individual horribly trapped in infinite doses of self-disapproval and internal self-assault. Individuals with superegos this brutal are forced to find some way, any way, of relieving their overbearing burdens of guilt and shame. Sadly, this is accomplished by a variety of very unpleasant internal and external methodologies; the bottom-line being an extremely long and tragic life, suffocating in harmful thoughts, feelings, and behaviors toward self and others. Taken to the very extreme, physical harm to self and others may be an ultimate reality.
Now, the cognitivits, led by Aaron Beck, would agree with the psychoanalysts that guilt is a very powerful and potentially harmful emotion. They submit guilt is grounded in all matters real or perceived; and it's highly influenced by genetics, life-experience, and learning. According to the cognitivists, one of the foundations of guilt is negative self-thought. That said, the guilt-ridden individual generally turns blame for unfortunate circumstances inward. Yes, though the behavior presentations associated with guilt hold the potential to be significantly outwardly harmful, it seems most of the harm is inflicted upon self. Any harm inflicted upon others is less directly aggressive, and more resentment or passive-aggressive based.
Well, for panic and anxiety sufferers, here's the bottom-line. No matter what kind of personality your superego may happen to have, your first step in whipping guilt is to become proactive in making things right with yourself. Only then is it time to make things right with others. If, indeed, the task at hand involves another party, approach him/her and offer a sincere apology. If some sort of debt has been incurred, suggest and work out a settlement; and make sure you hold up your end of the deal. Then, move on with your life in an enlightened and recovery-driven manner. True friends and true loved and loving ones will gladly accept the sincerity of your thoughts and words, and the action backing them.
But, please, don't ever forget to settle accounts with yourself. And now that you have insight into how absolutely cruel we can be to ourselves, and why; you may want to consider taking your circumstances to a therapist for resolution if you're having a tough time pulling things together. Guilt can be absolutely crippling for anyone, but it hits panic attack and anxiety sufferers particularly hard. We're so darned tough on ourselves, and hold ourselves accountable for so many things that simply aren't fair or reasonable. And that makes guilt a major obstacle to overcome when it comes to recovery. Well, let's have a look at this toxic phenomenon.
In any effort to examine guilt, Sigmund Freud and the psychoanalysts would submit one has to consider the superego; in effect, our active conscious. On the other end of Freud's structural spectrum is the id, home of our primal wishes. For the record, according to Freud, the interplay of the superego and id is managed by the ego. Now, some theorists would propose that one's superego can have, shall we say, a personality of its own; which can range from very easy-going to tough-as-nails. And within this context it would only make sense that a mentally/emotionally healthy person's superego would lend a hand in feeling good about self. Yes, this particular superego, like a good parent, would administer discipline when one has thought or behaved badly; and the punishment is generally delivered in the form of guilt. But when the individual makes sincere attempts at making-right their transgressions, the superego awards due credit and forgives. This is the psychoanalytic dynamic of self-forgiveness.
It would follow, then, that the tough-as-nails superego isn't so nurturing, as it pounds the individual with massive portions of guilt for a multiplicity of supposed offenses, causing one to constantly and desperately seek shelter. And each futile attempt at lightening the burden of guilt is greeted with truckloads of shame, instead of relief. Theoretically, it's this dynamic that greatly inhibits any sort of making things right, and, ultimately, leaves the individual horribly trapped in infinite doses of self-disapproval and internal self-assault. Individuals with superegos this brutal are forced to find some way, any way, of relieving their overbearing burdens of guilt and shame. Sadly, this is accomplished by a variety of very unpleasant internal and external methodologies; the bottom-line being an extremely long and tragic life, suffocating in harmful thoughts, feelings, and behaviors toward self and others. Taken to the very extreme, physical harm to self and others may be an ultimate reality.
Now, the cognitivits, led by Aaron Beck, would agree with the psychoanalysts that guilt is a very powerful and potentially harmful emotion. They submit guilt is grounded in all matters real or perceived; and it's highly influenced by genetics, life-experience, and learning. According to the cognitivists, one of the foundations of guilt is negative self-thought. That said, the guilt-ridden individual generally turns blame for unfortunate circumstances inward. Yes, though the behavior presentations associated with guilt hold the potential to be significantly outwardly harmful, it seems most of the harm is inflicted upon self. Any harm inflicted upon others is less directly aggressive, and more resentment or passive-aggressive based.
Well, for panic and anxiety sufferers, here's the bottom-line. No matter what kind of personality your superego may happen to have, your first step in whipping guilt is to become proactive in making things right with yourself. Only then is it time to make things right with others. If, indeed, the task at hand involves another party, approach him/her and offer a sincere apology. If some sort of debt has been incurred, suggest and work out a settlement; and make sure you hold up your end of the deal. Then, move on with your life in an enlightened and recovery-driven manner. True friends and true loved and loving ones will gladly accept the sincerity of your thoughts and words, and the action backing them.
But, please, don't ever forget to settle accounts with yourself. And now that you have insight into how absolutely cruel we can be to ourselves, and why; you may want to consider taking your circumstances to a therapist for resolution if you're having a tough time pulling things together.
There's no reason to accept domination by guilt. Except, of course, if you elect to do nothing about your situation.
In any effort to examine guilt, Sigmund Freud and the psychoanalysts would submit one has to consider the superego; in effect, our active conscious. On the other end of Freud's structural spectrum is the id, home of our primal wishes. For the record, according to Freud, the interplay of the superego and id is managed by the ego. Now, some theorists would propose that one's superego can have, shall we say, a personality of its own; which can range from very easy-going to tough-as-nails. And within this context it would only make sense that a mentally/emotionally healthy person's superego would lend a hand in feeling good about self. Yes, this particular superego, like a good parent, would administer discipline when one has thought or behaved badly; and the punishment is generally delivered in the form of guilt. But when the individual makes sincere attempts at making-right their transgressions, the superego awards due credit and forgives. This is the psychoanalytic dynamic of self-forgiveness.
It would follow, then, that the tough-as-nails superego isn't so nurturing, as it pounds the individual with massive portions of guilt for a multiplicity of supposed offenses, causing one to constantly and desperately seek shelter. And each futile attempt at lightening the burden of guilt is greeted with truckloads of shame, instead of relief. Theoretically, it's this dynamic that greatly inhibits any sort of making things right, and, ultimately, leaves the individual horribly trapped in infinite doses of self-disapproval and internal self-assault. Individuals with superegos this brutal are forced to find some way, any way, of relieving their overbearing burdens of guilt and shame. Sadly, this is accomplished by a variety of very unpleasant internal and external methodologies; the bottom-line being an extremely long and tragic life, suffocating in harmful thoughts, feelings, and behaviors toward self and others. Taken to the very extreme, physical harm to self and others may be an ultimate reality.
Now, the cognitivits, led by Aaron Beck, would agree with the psychoanalysts that guilt is a very powerful and potentially harmful emotion. They submit guilt is grounded in all matters real or perceived; and it's highly influenced by genetics, life-experience, and learning. According to the cognitivists, one of the foundations of guilt is negative self-thought. That said, the guilt-ridden individual generally turns blame for unfortunate circumstances inward. Yes, though the behavior presentations associated with guilt hold the potential to be significantly outwardly harmful, it seems most of the harm is inflicted upon self. Any harm inflicted upon others is less directly aggressive, and more resentment or passive-aggressive based.
Well, for panic and anxiety sufferers, here's the bottom-line. No matter what kind of personality your superego may happen to have, your first step in whipping guilt is to become proactive in making things right with yourself. Only then is it time to make things right with others. If, indeed, the task at hand involves another party, approach him/her and offer a sincere apology. If some sort of debt has been incurred, suggest and work out a settlement; and make sure you hold up your end of the deal. Then, move on with your life in an enlightened and recovery-driven manner. True friends and true loved and loving ones will gladly accept the sincerity of your thoughts and words, and the action backing them.
But, please, don't ever forget to settle accounts with yourself. And now that you have insight into how absolutely cruel we can be to ourselves, and why; you may want to consider taking your circumstances to a therapist for resolution if you're having a tough time pulling things together. Guilt can be absolutely crippling for anyone, but it hits panic attack and anxiety sufferers particularly hard. We're so darned tough on ourselves, and hold ourselves accountable for so many things that simply aren't fair or reasonable. And that makes guilt a major obstacle to overcome when it comes to recovery. Well, let's have a look at this toxic phenomenon.
In any effort to examine guilt, Sigmund Freud and the psychoanalysts would submit one has to consider the superego; in effect, our active conscious. On the other end of Freud's structural spectrum is the id, home of our primal wishes. For the record, according to Freud, the interplay of the superego and id is managed by the ego. Now, some theorists would propose that one's superego can have, shall we say, a personality of its own; which can range from very easy-going to tough-as-nails. And within this context it would only make sense that a mentally/emotionally healthy person's superego would lend a hand in feeling good about self. Yes, this particular superego, like a good parent, would administer discipline when one has thought or behaved badly; and the punishment is generally delivered in the form of guilt. But when the individual makes sincere attempts at making-right their transgressions, the superego awards due credit and forgives. This is the psychoanalytic dynamic of self-forgiveness.
It would follow, then, that the tough-as-nails superego isn't so nurturing, as it pounds the individual with massive portions of guilt for a multiplicity of supposed offenses, causing one to constantly and desperately seek shelter. And each futile attempt at lightening the burden of guilt is greeted with truckloads of shame, instead of relief. Theoretically, it's this dynamic that greatly inhibits any sort of making things right, and, ultimately, leaves the individual horribly trapped in infinite doses of self-disapproval and internal self-assault. Individuals with superegos this brutal are forced to find some way, any way, of relieving their overbearing burdens of guilt and shame. Sadly, this is accomplished by a variety of very unpleasant internal and external methodologies; the bottom-line being an extremely long and tragic life, suffocating in harmful thoughts, feelings, and behaviors toward self and others. Taken to the very extreme, physical harm to self and others may be an ultimate reality.
Now, the cognitivits, led by Aaron Beck, would agree with the psychoanalysts that guilt is a very powerful and potentially harmful emotion. They submit guilt is grounded in all matters real or perceived; and it's highly influenced by genetics, life-experience, and learning. According to the cognitivists, one of the foundations of guilt is negative self-thought. That said, the guilt-ridden individual generally turns blame for unfortunate circumstances inward. Yes, though the behavior presentations associated with guilt hold the potential to be significantly outwardly harmful, it seems most of the harm is inflicted upon self. Any harm inflicted upon others is less directly aggressive, and more resentment or passive-aggressive based.
Well, for panic and anxiety sufferers, here's the bottom-line. No matter what kind of personality your superego may happen to have, your first step in whipping guilt is to become proactive in making things right with yourself. Only then is it time to make things right with others. If, indeed, the task at hand involves another party, approach him/her and offer a sincere apology. If some sort of debt has been incurred, suggest and work out a settlement; and make sure you hold up your end of the deal. Then, move on with your life in an enlightened and recovery-driven manner. True friends and true loved and loving ones will gladly accept the sincerity of your thoughts and words, and the action backing them.
But, please, don't ever forget to settle accounts with yourself. And now that you have insight into how absolutely cruel we can be to ourselves, and why; you may want to consider taking your circumstances to a therapist for resolution if you're having a tough time pulling things together.
There's no reason to accept domination by guilt. Except, of course, if you elect to do nothing about your situation.
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Plan Your Monthly Personal Budget Using Excel Spreadsheet
Plan your monthly personal or family budget without help from any tools should be a difficult task for you. The easiest way to plan your budget is to use help from Microsoft Excel. Use the following steps to create your own personal budget in excel spreadsheet :
1. Write down your daily expenses in one month period
Create four columns and label them with name "Date", "Description", "Category", and "Amount". Start filling the columns with your daily expenses. You can write any description for your expenses. Categorize it based on your defined category, and fill the amount of that expense.
2. Summarize your expenses
Create new columns and summarize your daily expenses into category where you have to use excel function to sum your daily expenses based on their category. Name the new columns with name "Category" and "Expenses". You can create it within the same spreadsheet or in separate spreadsheet.
3. Add budget column
Add a new column next to Amount column in step 2, and label it with name "Budget". Fill your "Budget" column with the same amount with "Expenses" column.
4. Subtract your monthly income with budget and expenses
Sum the total amount of your "Expenses" and "Budget" columns. Create new rows below "Budget" column, and label it "Income" and "Saving". Input your monthly income, and then in "Saving" cell subtract Income with total amount from "Budget" column. If the result is positive, you can use your expenses as your budget reference. If it is negative, you need to adjust your budget where you think you can save the expenses of that category, and try to commit on this budget on the following month.
You can follow those steps above to simplify your monthly personal budgets, or you can also find some personal budgets created in excel available in internet to ease your plan.
1. Write down your daily expenses in one month period
Create four columns and label them with name "Date", "Description", "Category", and "Amount". Start filling the columns with your daily expenses. You can write any description for your expenses. Categorize it based on your defined category, and fill the amount of that expense.
2. Summarize your expenses
Create new columns and summarize your daily expenses into category where you have to use excel function to sum your daily expenses based on their category. Name the new columns with name "Category" and "Expenses". You can create it within the same spreadsheet or in separate spreadsheet.
3. Add budget column
Add a new column next to Amount column in step 2, and label it with name "Budget". Fill your "Budget" column with the same amount with "Expenses" column.
4. Subtract your monthly income with budget and expenses
Sum the total amount of your "Expenses" and "Budget" columns. Create new rows below "Budget" column, and label it "Income" and "Saving". Input your monthly income, and then in "Saving" cell subtract Income with total amount from "Budget" column. If the result is positive, you can use your expenses as your budget reference. If it is negative, you need to adjust your budget where you think you can save the expenses of that category, and try to commit on this budget on the following month.
You can follow those steps above to simplify your monthly personal budgets, or you can also find some personal budgets created in excel available in internet to ease your plan.
Sunday, August 19, 2012
Military Loans With Bad Credit: The Best Terms To Expect
There is a misplaced idea that military personnel have it easy when it comes to securing loans. The mistake is understandable when their employment situation is considered, even with the bad credit scores they may have earned due to the economic crisis. But while it is never guaranteed, it is possible to get military loans with bad credit.
Of course, in the civilian world, bad credit borrowers have access to loans too, but it is the terms of these deals that are different. Despite having a poor credit history, members of the military can access low interest loans, making funding a very affordable thing.
But the ability to access such great deals is not solely down their employer being the US government. There are other influences that have made it possible to get military loans that are highly affordable.
Influence of Loan Repayments System
LIke any other loan, getting military loans with bad credit comes with an obligation to repay the loan in full by adhering to a repayment schedule. But, with military borrowers, the risk of defaulting is practically nil because of the repayment system lenders employ.
Rather than giving the borrower a repayment schedule and urging them to stick to it, the loan repayments are taken from source each month. This means they are deducted directly from the salary of the borrower. The certainty of receiving repayments on time is what ensures these loans are low interest loans.
This type of system is known as allotment repayment, where a particular amount of the paycheck is allotted to covering a specific debt. And with everything covered by the system, military members never really have to worry about their military loan.
Influence of Active Duty
Deployment might seem like a troublesome element in lending to military personnel, but as active duty abroad is part of everyday life in the armed forces, military lenders have worked a system around the problem. Approving military loans with bad credit is fine as long as a permanent (family) address is provided during application.
However, there are more advantages to going on active duty. In line with the terms of the Soldier's and Sailor's Relief Act, servicemen and women who have taken out a loan, will benefit by a dramatic reduction in their interest rate. In fact, the rate is reduced by up to 6% while on active duty, making it hard to beat amongst low interest loans.
This includes loans granted by private lenders, not just military lenders, with the borrower only needing to inform their lender of their entitlement. The lender must comply with the terms of the act, making these military loans the most affordable when the borrower is serving their country.
Loans With No Frontiers
Normally, lenders are not willing to entertain applications from people overseas. There is too much difficulty in ensuring repayments and securing collateral if there are problems. But there is a global aspect to getting military loans with bad credit. After all, though abroad, military personnel are still employees of the US government.
For applicants, the ability to apply for loans when they are far from home is a major plus. The Internet makes everything possible, and ensures a very fast approval time for these a low interest loans.
Once the required information is provided in the online application form, and submitted, it can take just a few seconds for a decision to be confirmed. So, wherever they might be posted in the world, military loans are always accessible.
Of course, in the civilian world, bad credit borrowers have access to loans too, but it is the terms of these deals that are different. Despite having a poor credit history, members of the military can access low interest loans, making funding a very affordable thing.
But the ability to access such great deals is not solely down their employer being the US government. There are other influences that have made it possible to get military loans that are highly affordable.
Influence of Loan Repayments System
LIke any other loan, getting military loans with bad credit comes with an obligation to repay the loan in full by adhering to a repayment schedule. But, with military borrowers, the risk of defaulting is practically nil because of the repayment system lenders employ.
Rather than giving the borrower a repayment schedule and urging them to stick to it, the loan repayments are taken from source each month. This means they are deducted directly from the salary of the borrower. The certainty of receiving repayments on time is what ensures these loans are low interest loans.
This type of system is known as allotment repayment, where a particular amount of the paycheck is allotted to covering a specific debt. And with everything covered by the system, military members never really have to worry about their military loan.
Influence of Active Duty
Deployment might seem like a troublesome element in lending to military personnel, but as active duty abroad is part of everyday life in the armed forces, military lenders have worked a system around the problem. Approving military loans with bad credit is fine as long as a permanent (family) address is provided during application.
However, there are more advantages to going on active duty. In line with the terms of the Soldier's and Sailor's Relief Act, servicemen and women who have taken out a loan, will benefit by a dramatic reduction in their interest rate. In fact, the rate is reduced by up to 6% while on active duty, making it hard to beat amongst low interest loans.
This includes loans granted by private lenders, not just military lenders, with the borrower only needing to inform their lender of their entitlement. The lender must comply with the terms of the act, making these military loans the most affordable when the borrower is serving their country.
Loans With No Frontiers
Normally, lenders are not willing to entertain applications from people overseas. There is too much difficulty in ensuring repayments and securing collateral if there are problems. But there is a global aspect to getting military loans with bad credit. After all, though abroad, military personnel are still employees of the US government.
For applicants, the ability to apply for loans when they are far from home is a major plus. The Internet makes everything possible, and ensures a very fast approval time for these a low interest loans.
Once the required information is provided in the online application form, and submitted, it can take just a few seconds for a decision to be confirmed. So, wherever they might be posted in the world, military loans are always accessible.
Friday, August 17, 2012
Same day payouts Loans-When you are in an Urgent need for Liquid Cash
Getting out a crunching financial crisis is the hardest thing a person can do. This is particularly so, if the money to assist is scarce. Even so, there are some easy ways in which you can raise the required money without much of inconveniencing all those around you. This is through the same day payout loans.
This loan product falls under unsecured loans category. This means that the loan amounts are availed without the requirements for a collateral pledge. The loans are for bridging financial gaps that occurs within the month and are settled the first thing a borrower receives their payday check. The amounts are generally used for meeting such needs as
Unexpected medical expenses, sudden car repairs when money is unavailable, Paying out an outstanding credit card dues etc. The advanced loans amounts ranges from 100 to 1500 and is to be repaid within 2- 4 weeks after approval. If you extend the repayment dates, the rate of interest doubles, thus becoming a very expensive affair.
For a borrower to qualify for these amounts, they must be over 18 years of age and be British citizens. They must also be employed or self employed and have a regular income which is more than 1000 per month. On top of all this, the applicants must be have a valid and active checking account in which to wire transfer the loan amount. The checking account must be older than 6 months.
Once the above conditions are fulfilled, the loans are approved as fast as you applied. Furthermore, even those people who have bad credit records get their request for a loan being granted. All that is required of them is to proof to the lender that they have some regular income coming into their accounts in form a salary. Having done this, the loan amount they require is availed but at a higher rate of interest due to risk they are putting the lender into, they may fail to repay the advanced money once again.
The best way for applying for these loans is through the online method. Here, the applicant fills in the required information on the availed loan application form. Once the information is verified and certified as correct, the funds are instantly wired into the borrowers account without much of a hassle. This makes the same day cash loans the ideal partner in helping out with all your financial crisis.
This loan product falls under unsecured loans category. This means that the loan amounts are availed without the requirements for a collateral pledge. The loans are for bridging financial gaps that occurs within the month and are settled the first thing a borrower receives their payday check. The amounts are generally used for meeting such needs as
Unexpected medical expenses, sudden car repairs when money is unavailable, Paying out an outstanding credit card dues etc. The advanced loans amounts ranges from 100 to 1500 and is to be repaid within 2- 4 weeks after approval. If you extend the repayment dates, the rate of interest doubles, thus becoming a very expensive affair.
For a borrower to qualify for these amounts, they must be over 18 years of age and be British citizens. They must also be employed or self employed and have a regular income which is more than 1000 per month. On top of all this, the applicants must be have a valid and active checking account in which to wire transfer the loan amount. The checking account must be older than 6 months.
Once the above conditions are fulfilled, the loans are approved as fast as you applied. Furthermore, even those people who have bad credit records get their request for a loan being granted. All that is required of them is to proof to the lender that they have some regular income coming into their accounts in form a salary. Having done this, the loan amount they require is availed but at a higher rate of interest due to risk they are putting the lender into, they may fail to repay the advanced money once again.
The best way for applying for these loans is through the online method. Here, the applicant fills in the required information on the availed loan application form. Once the information is verified and certified as correct, the funds are instantly wired into the borrowers account without much of a hassle. This makes the same day cash loans the ideal partner in helping out with all your financial crisis.
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Premium Finance - Wealth Creation Calculator
Premium Finance boasts of various wealth creation strategies to help you effectively manage your personal finances.
Managing your finances is easier said than done. Mortgages, home expenditures, luxury items, health expenses, and taxes are enough to dry up your wallet. However, that should never be the case. All it takes is some serious planning and self-discipline. In addition, Premium Finance is more than willing to help you with your financial issues. With the help of wealth creation calculator, retiring can be done early. Not only that, putting your trust in Premium Finance will also help you with consolidating debts and decreasing your monthly expenditures. Eventually, you can save more cash. Hence, you will see that you are well on your way to generating and maintaining more income.
The Premium Finance wealth creation calculator can help you choose the right investments to make. Why settle for complicated wealth creation calculators when you can have an easy-to-use and highly efficient calculator right at your fingertips?
In relation, this method will certainly reduce the amount of stress you'll experience when handling your bills. Financial plans can be easily developed, all it takes is that you follow your financial plans tirelessly. Soon enough, you will enjoy living your life the way you want to.
Premium Finance offers a genuine and authentic service that is designed to help your personal finance and allow you the opportunity for you own investments to grow each year and offer you the retirement income you want.
Premium Finance can help find answers to questions such as:
* What are your plans?
* How and when to pay off debts?
* How much do you need before retiring?
* How are you going to spend your retirement?
With Premium Finance, money problems are a thing of the past. However, the power to create more wealth is in your hands. Once you've made that decision, contact us and we'll give you a nudge in the right direction. Even better, our relationship managers will guide you in managing your finances with ease. You don't have to wait any longer. You can start creating more wealth right now with Premium Finance
The Premium Finance Services Wealth Creation Calculator will be online soon
Managing your finances is easier said than done. Mortgages, home expenditures, luxury items, health expenses, and taxes are enough to dry up your wallet. However, that should never be the case. All it takes is some serious planning and self-discipline. In addition, Premium Finance is more than willing to help you with your financial issues. With the help of wealth creation calculator, retiring can be done early. Not only that, putting your trust in Premium Finance will also help you with consolidating debts and decreasing your monthly expenditures. Eventually, you can save more cash. Hence, you will see that you are well on your way to generating and maintaining more income.
The Premium Finance wealth creation calculator can help you choose the right investments to make. Why settle for complicated wealth creation calculators when you can have an easy-to-use and highly efficient calculator right at your fingertips?
In relation, this method will certainly reduce the amount of stress you'll experience when handling your bills. Financial plans can be easily developed, all it takes is that you follow your financial plans tirelessly. Soon enough, you will enjoy living your life the way you want to.
Premium Finance offers a genuine and authentic service that is designed to help your personal finance and allow you the opportunity for you own investments to grow each year and offer you the retirement income you want.
Premium Finance can help find answers to questions such as:
* What are your plans?
* How and when to pay off debts?
* How much do you need before retiring?
* How are you going to spend your retirement?
With Premium Finance, money problems are a thing of the past. However, the power to create more wealth is in your hands. Once you've made that decision, contact us and we'll give you a nudge in the right direction. Even better, our relationship managers will guide you in managing your finances with ease. You don't have to wait any longer. You can start creating more wealth right now with Premium Finance
The Premium Finance Services Wealth Creation Calculator will be online soon
Monday, August 13, 2012
Philip Smouha - Decades In The Fashion Industry
It has been said by many that the fashion industry is a cut-throat one. An industry that is very hard to succeed in simply due to the nature of how garments in particular change hands from manufacturers to end users.
The Smouha fabric company was a company that managed to successfully trade fabrics in Australia since 1950. That was until the Global financial crisis affected the customers of Smouha fabrics and they were unable to repay loans owed to the company.
We can still learn a lot about a fabric company that succeeded in this cut-throat' industry. It was due to their great reputation, good service and above all else their commitment to stocking only the highest quality fabrics.
Smouha fabrics have lived through government changes in the last few decades which affected many importers. The government increasing the allowance of off shore manufacturing by reducing duties and tariffs is one such example. Even when competition became fierce with cheaper prices on offer to designers and manufacturers Smouha fabrics remained a trusted supplier. This was due to the fabric company delivering exactly what their customers wanted while financing them at the same time.
The fabric empire was started by Philip's father Charles, originally from Manchester in the UK which traditionally was the textile centre. Long before the company traded millions of dollars each year the family business began with the goal of just surviving. The business continued to grow through many fashion trends from the 50's to today because of their great style and depth of knowledge of where trends were headed.
Philip Smouha, the director of the 49 year old family business has since found his footing after closing a chapter in his life and is successfully building companies once again. His son is involved in running a beer company called Lucky beer with him. The company has already had a great impact in Australia and off shore due to the cheeky nature of the marketing and original idea which no body has come up with before.
The solid principles of supporting customers and providing them with exactly what they need from the decades in the fashion industry have obviously not gone to waste. The Smouha family continue to live very successful lives.
The Smouha fabric company was a company that managed to successfully trade fabrics in Australia since 1950. That was until the Global financial crisis affected the customers of Smouha fabrics and they were unable to repay loans owed to the company.
We can still learn a lot about a fabric company that succeeded in this cut-throat' industry. It was due to their great reputation, good service and above all else their commitment to stocking only the highest quality fabrics.
Smouha fabrics have lived through government changes in the last few decades which affected many importers. The government increasing the allowance of off shore manufacturing by reducing duties and tariffs is one such example. Even when competition became fierce with cheaper prices on offer to designers and manufacturers Smouha fabrics remained a trusted supplier. This was due to the fabric company delivering exactly what their customers wanted while financing them at the same time.
The fabric empire was started by Philip's father Charles, originally from Manchester in the UK which traditionally was the textile centre. Long before the company traded millions of dollars each year the family business began with the goal of just surviving. The business continued to grow through many fashion trends from the 50's to today because of their great style and depth of knowledge of where trends were headed.
Philip Smouha, the director of the 49 year old family business has since found his footing after closing a chapter in his life and is successfully building companies once again. His son is involved in running a beer company called Lucky beer with him. The company has already had a great impact in Australia and off shore due to the cheeky nature of the marketing and original idea which no body has come up with before.
The solid principles of supporting customers and providing them with exactly what they need from the decades in the fashion industry have obviously not gone to waste. The Smouha family continue to live very successful lives.
Saturday, August 11, 2012
Legitimate Payday Loans On The Web With No Credit Check
With an internet planet that may be so complete of scams, hype and gimmicks it can be challenging to search out legitimate payday loans on the web. If you require cash for one thing that you just have to pay, you don't have time to waste with scam websites and gimmicks. It is a large waste of time to have to go as a result of the net attempting to locate a legit payday loan.
The superior news is the fact that there is a genuine loan business or two on the web that will provide you with a legit payday loan devoid of the have to have for credit check. There's no credit examine whatsoever. All you may have to have is actually a job which is an approach to pay the loan back. There is not even any qualification other than acquiring a job and becoming over age 18. Getting over 18 is because you can not enter into any type of loan agreement unless of course that you are of legal age.
Some individuals get frustrated that some Internet sides say the need to possess a checking account. That is actually not even true and no checking account is definitely required with any legitimate payday loan corporation. They are going to ask you and tell you that you just must have a checking account, unquestionably.
The cause that they say you've to have a checking account is for the reason that if your payment bounces they are extra most likely to get their income, even so you will get an insufficient fund charge out of your bank if you do not have the revenue inside your account for the payment. If you use a checking account, then there exists no kind of overdraft protection and also the payday loan corporation is less most likely to obtain their funds for the payment in case you do not have it in your account.
There is certainly in reality no way for a payday loan firm, insurance coverage provider or anybody else for that matter, to have the ability to distinguish in between a checking account number plus a savings account amount.
You will discover legitimate payday loan firms on-line that may assist you to. In the event you want revenue now, you will get up to 00 in money revenue deposited straight into your bank account. All you've to have the job, be over 18 and be you say you might be.
If you're in need to have of extra money till pay day, you might wish to take into account applying for a pay day or check loan on-line. A pay day loan might be obtained on the internet and with no credit check. Poor credit is not going to disqualify you from qualifying for a pay day loan. You could use the funds for what ever objective important and also the dollars can usually be deposited into your checking account the incredibly same day you apply. All you will need is a checking account, as well as a steady source of earnings and you can get as much as 1000 dollars or a lot more deposited straight into your checking account.
A pay day loan is intended to fulfill your short-term monetary demands and should not be employed as a typical lending supply. The fees charged for pay day loans is often greater than a conventional loan out of your bank and really should only be employed to resolve temporary or emergency economic crises.
Repeatedly obtaining pay day loans can expense you a good deal of funds should you extended your pay off date many times or in the event you continually borrow against your next pay examine. If a brief term pay day loan will be the greatest selection for you, you'll be able to be approved and have up to 1000 dollars or additional deposited into your checking account occasionally as soon because the pretty identical day you apply.
Pay day loan interest rates vary from corporation to firm. Some lenders supply discount rates for new or returning buyers. Immediately after supplying the pay day loan organization using the required info, commonly your name, address, employment and banking information and facts, you can be approved in as tiny as one hour along with the funds can often be inside your checking account the incredibly identical day. Occasionally you could be needed to fax your final pay examine stub and bank statement prior to approval, but the funds can nevertheless be deposited into your checking account pretty quickly.
Negative credit should not quit you from applying for a pay day loan. There is going to be no credit verify, only the verification from the info you provide. Pay day loan businesses tend not to check your credit report or speak to your employer, except as vital to verify employment. Applying and obtaining approved is speedy and convenient. On the net lenders can approve you application promptly and you are going to have the money you may need as soon because the really day you happen to be approved.
The superior news is the fact that there is a genuine loan business or two on the web that will provide you with a legit payday loan devoid of the have to have for credit check. There's no credit examine whatsoever. All you may have to have is actually a job which is an approach to pay the loan back. There is not even any qualification other than acquiring a job and becoming over age 18. Getting over 18 is because you can not enter into any type of loan agreement unless of course that you are of legal age.
Some individuals get frustrated that some Internet sides say the need to possess a checking account. That is actually not even true and no checking account is definitely required with any legitimate payday loan corporation. They are going to ask you and tell you that you just must have a checking account, unquestionably.
The cause that they say you've to have a checking account is for the reason that if your payment bounces they are extra most likely to get their income, even so you will get an insufficient fund charge out of your bank if you do not have the revenue inside your account for the payment. If you use a checking account, then there exists no kind of overdraft protection and also the payday loan corporation is less most likely to obtain their funds for the payment in case you do not have it in your account.
There is certainly in reality no way for a payday loan firm, insurance coverage provider or anybody else for that matter, to have the ability to distinguish in between a checking account number plus a savings account amount.
You will discover legitimate payday loan firms on-line that may assist you to. In the event you want revenue now, you will get up to 00 in money revenue deposited straight into your bank account. All you've to have the job, be over 18 and be you say you might be.
If you're in need to have of extra money till pay day, you might wish to take into account applying for a pay day or check loan on-line. A pay day loan might be obtained on the internet and with no credit check. Poor credit is not going to disqualify you from qualifying for a pay day loan. You could use the funds for what ever objective important and also the dollars can usually be deposited into your checking account the incredibly same day you apply. All you will need is a checking account, as well as a steady source of earnings and you can get as much as 1000 dollars or a lot more deposited straight into your checking account.
A pay day loan is intended to fulfill your short-term monetary demands and should not be employed as a typical lending supply. The fees charged for pay day loans is often greater than a conventional loan out of your bank and really should only be employed to resolve temporary or emergency economic crises.
Repeatedly obtaining pay day loans can expense you a good deal of funds should you extended your pay off date many times or in the event you continually borrow against your next pay examine. If a brief term pay day loan will be the greatest selection for you, you'll be able to be approved and have up to 1000 dollars or additional deposited into your checking account occasionally as soon because the pretty identical day you apply.
Pay day loan interest rates vary from corporation to firm. Some lenders supply discount rates for new or returning buyers. Immediately after supplying the pay day loan organization using the required info, commonly your name, address, employment and banking information and facts, you can be approved in as tiny as one hour along with the funds can often be inside your checking account the incredibly identical day. Occasionally you could be needed to fax your final pay examine stub and bank statement prior to approval, but the funds can nevertheless be deposited into your checking account pretty quickly.
Negative credit should not quit you from applying for a pay day loan. There is going to be no credit verify, only the verification from the info you provide. Pay day loan businesses tend not to check your credit report or speak to your employer, except as vital to verify employment. Applying and obtaining approved is speedy and convenient. On the net lenders can approve you application promptly and you are going to have the money you may need as soon because the really day you happen to be approved.
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
Anxious about debt problems? A prepaid credit card could help
Money worries can affect everyone at some stage. The Citizen's Advice Bureau has reported dealing with over 9000 new debt-related problems every day in England and Wales alone*. This striking statistic means that although many people are anxious about debt, they are also eager to stop the decline into even more debt.
One solution which people can consider is switching their finances to a prepaid credit card. Prepaid credit cards could help people from sliding further into debt by reducing banking costs, enabling better budgeting and also reinvigorating poor credit ratings.
Many consumers might be wary of switching to a prepaid card for fear they may be declined or it will be recorded on their credit history.
However, for prepaid credit cards like the Cashplus prepaid Gold MasterCard, acceptance is guaranteed and there are no credit checks preformed upon application. This makes prepaid credit cards a viable option to those who are worried about or have had a poor credit history in the past.
In fact, the Cashplus prepaid card can actually help people rebuild their credit rating through their add-on product, Creditbuilder. This product lasts for 12 months and is a small loan of one year's monthly fees for owning the card. As the customer successfully repays their small monthly fee, Cashplus reports this activity to credit reference agencies. As long as the customer meets their monthly commitments and any other outstanding credit obligations, they should see their credit rating improve.
The Cashplus prepaid card can also be used as an alternative to a bank account. Therefore if someone has had trouble getting a bank account in the past or is new to the UK, a Cashplus prepaid credit card could be the answer. The Cashplus card account could present savings when compared to high street bank accounts by not charging fees associated with overdrafts, late payments or deposits. For those who are new to the UK or have had credit problems in the past, the Creditbuilder feature of a Cashplus card could help them on the road to easier and cheaper credit in the future.
As prepaid cards have to be topped up with money before it can be spent, those who are worried about overspending can easily keep track of their regular outgoings. Furthermore, topping up a prepaid credit card can be quick and convenient. The Cashplus prepaid card can be topped up via bank transfer, at over 1000 retail stores, epay outlets or at any UK Post Office location nationwide.
Therefore, switching to a prepaid credit card such as the Cashplus card could help reduce debt worry by helping people control their spending, reducing banking costs and even rebuilding their credit rating. This could in turn help people from getting further into debt.
One solution which people can consider is switching their finances to a prepaid credit card. Prepaid credit cards could help people from sliding further into debt by reducing banking costs, enabling better budgeting and also reinvigorating poor credit ratings.
Many consumers might be wary of switching to a prepaid card for fear they may be declined or it will be recorded on their credit history.
However, for prepaid credit cards like the Cashplus prepaid Gold MasterCard, acceptance is guaranteed and there are no credit checks preformed upon application. This makes prepaid credit cards a viable option to those who are worried about or have had a poor credit history in the past.
In fact, the Cashplus prepaid card can actually help people rebuild their credit rating through their add-on product, Creditbuilder. This product lasts for 12 months and is a small loan of one year's monthly fees for owning the card. As the customer successfully repays their small monthly fee, Cashplus reports this activity to credit reference agencies. As long as the customer meets their monthly commitments and any other outstanding credit obligations, they should see their credit rating improve.
The Cashplus prepaid card can also be used as an alternative to a bank account. Therefore if someone has had trouble getting a bank account in the past or is new to the UK, a Cashplus prepaid credit card could be the answer. The Cashplus card account could present savings when compared to high street bank accounts by not charging fees associated with overdrafts, late payments or deposits. For those who are new to the UK or have had credit problems in the past, the Creditbuilder feature of a Cashplus card could help them on the road to easier and cheaper credit in the future.
As prepaid cards have to be topped up with money before it can be spent, those who are worried about overspending can easily keep track of their regular outgoings. Furthermore, topping up a prepaid credit card can be quick and convenient. The Cashplus prepaid card can be topped up via bank transfer, at over 1000 retail stores, epay outlets or at any UK Post Office location nationwide.
Therefore, switching to a prepaid credit card such as the Cashplus card could help reduce debt worry by helping people control their spending, reducing banking costs and even rebuilding their credit rating. This could in turn help people from getting further into debt.
Monday, August 6, 2012
It Is Just Me, Or People Getting Ruder?
I've been wondering this for a while and have been dying to ask my business colleagues and friends. But whenever I'm get ready to pop the question, I manage to convince myself that it's silly, reveals my cynical nature (or advance years!) and is probably just a figment of my jaded imagination certainly not worthy of intelligent discussion.
The question, however, continued to reside nervously on the tip of my tongue, eager to fly out (particularly just after leaving my apparently mute colleague a fourth voice mail message). But it wasn't until I read Keith Ferrazzi's masterful book, Never Eat Alone that I summoned the courage to thunderously and openly inquire, Are people, particularly those in business, much ruder than they use to be?
And Have we become so numb to it that we actually expect - and worst yet, accept it as normal and okay?
I think yes. I hope I'm wrong.
Let me, however, step back a bit Why did Ferrazzi's book serve as my catalyst?
The short answer is that it's just plain good. It is a brilliantly written book simple without being simplistic in the same league as Dale Carnegie's classic How to Win Friends and Influence People. And in an age when everyone seems to be a marketing, internet or personal motivation coach it's refreshing to read something so balanced and genuinely inspired. Most importantly, however, Ferrazzi reminds us that we're not in this alone - people make business happen!
He reiterates what some of us already know. We're all better off emotionally, financially, and physically when we take the time to build thoughtful, intimate (not in the biblical sense :>) and sincere relationships with others. Ferrazzi says that while our personal styles and levels of openness should be adjusted as appropriate, making strong human connections is essential to our well being. I couldn't agree more! This is, after all, what it's all about and long overdue advice. Thanks, Keith!
But then it occurred to me. How can you develop relationships with people when they don't call, email, or show up even when they've promised to do so?!
And I'm not referring about those little, unintentional slip-ups that happen to all of us occasionally - like when you've forgotten your Aunt Hilda's birthday; or waited until the last minute to send in your wedding RSVP; or failed to send a thank-you note.
No, what I'm talking about is far more baffling and egregious. I'm referring to the friends who call you one day before your big dinner party and reiterate how much they're looking forward to seeing you - and then don't show up no explanation, no call, no nothing.
Or how about that real estate agent who promises to get back to you with a price no later than 2 pm, and you never hear from them again?
And what about that old friend or colleague who can't wait to have lunch with you next Thursday and then doesn't return your confirmation calls or emails?
Then there's my favorite you've killed yourself to help someone get something urgent done (usually a boss or co-worker) and even managed to save the day You email the document before the deadline, sure that the recipient will be relieved and grateful. But you never find out. No thank you. No way to go. No nothing.
Or is it just me? Maybe so
I was raised in a home where we were taught to treat everyone with the same amount of respect and kindness. Period. Behavior that didn't measure up to this standard was not tolerated. We learned that the true measure of someone's character rested in their commitment to do the right thing - even when they didn't have to.
For example, whenever I leave a hotel room, I wipe off the counters; gather my towels together in one convenient spot; turn off the television, lights and air conditioning; return the iron to the closet; and make sure that all my scraps of paper are where they belong in the trash can.
Why? Because it's just the right thing to do (and my mother would probably rise up out of her grave and kick my butt if I didn't :>). Yes, hotels employ a cleaning staff who are paid to clean up after me, but why should they? It's my mess. I was responsible for making it, so I am responsible for cleaning it up even if I don't have to.
I have adopted my parents' code and although I sometimes fail, I continually strive to measure up to those standards.
But what does this look like in the real world? It means you 1. Return calls even if it's only to say no
2. Honor your commitments if you tell someone you're going to do something, you do it. If you absolutely cannot, you let them know beforehand.
3. When you're asked to RSVP, you do so
4. Say thank you and please to strangers, friends, family members, waiters and waitresses, taxi drivers, colleagues, children, teenagers everyone.
5. Call when you're going to be late
6. Return emails (unless it's spam)
7. Welcome people into your home do your best to make them feel comfortable and important
8. Clean up after yourself
9. Value other people's privacy
10. Honor your parents
11. Respect elders
12. Chew gum quietly
13. Say excuse me when you burp
14. Open doors for others
15. Allow someone with only two items to move ahead of you in the grocery line
16. Respect other cultures, religions, ethnicities and the like.
17. Don't push in front of someone even if you're in a car
18. Share your things
19. Don't act like a pig even if it's at an All-You-Can-Eat buffet
20. Don't brag
21. Never litter
Are these rules a thing of the past? Pass in today's fast-paced culture? Old fashioned? Silly? Or am I just imagining things?
But if I'm not why? Are we overloaded, overbooked and over committed? Has it become too easy to make excuses? Have we been forced into a every-man-for-himself mindset? Did our parents and teachers fail us?
Or is it that we just don't care because they're not important. What do you think?
The question, however, continued to reside nervously on the tip of my tongue, eager to fly out (particularly just after leaving my apparently mute colleague a fourth voice mail message). But it wasn't until I read Keith Ferrazzi's masterful book, Never Eat Alone that I summoned the courage to thunderously and openly inquire, Are people, particularly those in business, much ruder than they use to be?
And Have we become so numb to it that we actually expect - and worst yet, accept it as normal and okay?
I think yes. I hope I'm wrong.
Let me, however, step back a bit Why did Ferrazzi's book serve as my catalyst?
The short answer is that it's just plain good. It is a brilliantly written book simple without being simplistic in the same league as Dale Carnegie's classic How to Win Friends and Influence People. And in an age when everyone seems to be a marketing, internet or personal motivation coach it's refreshing to read something so balanced and genuinely inspired. Most importantly, however, Ferrazzi reminds us that we're not in this alone - people make business happen!
He reiterates what some of us already know. We're all better off emotionally, financially, and physically when we take the time to build thoughtful, intimate (not in the biblical sense :>) and sincere relationships with others. Ferrazzi says that while our personal styles and levels of openness should be adjusted as appropriate, making strong human connections is essential to our well being. I couldn't agree more! This is, after all, what it's all about and long overdue advice. Thanks, Keith!
But then it occurred to me. How can you develop relationships with people when they don't call, email, or show up even when they've promised to do so?!
And I'm not referring about those little, unintentional slip-ups that happen to all of us occasionally - like when you've forgotten your Aunt Hilda's birthday; or waited until the last minute to send in your wedding RSVP; or failed to send a thank-you note.
No, what I'm talking about is far more baffling and egregious. I'm referring to the friends who call you one day before your big dinner party and reiterate how much they're looking forward to seeing you - and then don't show up no explanation, no call, no nothing.
Or how about that real estate agent who promises to get back to you with a price no later than 2 pm, and you never hear from them again?
And what about that old friend or colleague who can't wait to have lunch with you next Thursday and then doesn't return your confirmation calls or emails?
Then there's my favorite you've killed yourself to help someone get something urgent done (usually a boss or co-worker) and even managed to save the day You email the document before the deadline, sure that the recipient will be relieved and grateful. But you never find out. No thank you. No way to go. No nothing.
Or is it just me? Maybe so
I was raised in a home where we were taught to treat everyone with the same amount of respect and kindness. Period. Behavior that didn't measure up to this standard was not tolerated. We learned that the true measure of someone's character rested in their commitment to do the right thing - even when they didn't have to.
For example, whenever I leave a hotel room, I wipe off the counters; gather my towels together in one convenient spot; turn off the television, lights and air conditioning; return the iron to the closet; and make sure that all my scraps of paper are where they belong in the trash can.
Why? Because it's just the right thing to do (and my mother would probably rise up out of her grave and kick my butt if I didn't :>). Yes, hotels employ a cleaning staff who are paid to clean up after me, but why should they? It's my mess. I was responsible for making it, so I am responsible for cleaning it up even if I don't have to.
I have adopted my parents' code and although I sometimes fail, I continually strive to measure up to those standards.
But what does this look like in the real world? It means you 1. Return calls even if it's only to say no
2. Honor your commitments if you tell someone you're going to do something, you do it. If you absolutely cannot, you let them know beforehand.
3. When you're asked to RSVP, you do so
4. Say thank you and please to strangers, friends, family members, waiters and waitresses, taxi drivers, colleagues, children, teenagers everyone.
5. Call when you're going to be late
6. Return emails (unless it's spam)
7. Welcome people into your home do your best to make them feel comfortable and important
8. Clean up after yourself
9. Value other people's privacy
10. Honor your parents
11. Respect elders
12. Chew gum quietly
13. Say excuse me when you burp
14. Open doors for others
15. Allow someone with only two items to move ahead of you in the grocery line
16. Respect other cultures, religions, ethnicities and the like.
17. Don't push in front of someone even if you're in a car
18. Share your things
19. Don't act like a pig even if it's at an All-You-Can-Eat buffet
20. Don't brag
21. Never litter
Are these rules a thing of the past? Pass in today's fast-paced culture? Old fashioned? Silly? Or am I just imagining things?
But if I'm not why? Are we overloaded, overbooked and over committed? Has it become too easy to make excuses? Have we been forced into a every-man-for-himself mindset? Did our parents and teachers fail us?
Or is it that we just don't care because they're not important. What do you think?
Saturday, August 4, 2012
How Much Can I Borrow From Online Loan Lenders?
Let's say that payday is several days away and your car breaks down. You could borrow money from a friend or family member and have to endure the embarrassment and agony of having everyone know you needed cash. The simple truth is that most people want to have a savings account in case of an emergency, but most are unable to set aside the cash on a regular basis to keep an account going. That is why there are online loan lenders to help people get the money they need without embarrassment.
People often wonder how much they can actually borrow from online loan lenders. That answer depends on several factors. First of all, if you are going to get money from online loan lenders, then only get what you need. You will have to pay that loan back with your next paycheck, so piling on the loan balance is not a good idea. Determine exactly how much you need to cover only your emergency bills and then ask to borrow just that much.
Online loan lenders usually have a maximum amount they will lend. The amount can vary from lender to lender, but in most cases it is around ,000. When you consider that you are only talking about a short-term loan to take care of an emergency expense, then that kind of a ceiling is more than adequate. If you have to borrow more than that, then you probably have an issue that requires a bit more complicated financial solution.
Most online loan lenders will limit how much you can borrow based on how much money you make each month. But it is important to remember that online loan lenders do not do a credit check and they usually have very lenient borrowing guidelines. As long as you meet the minimum income requirements to be approved for a loan, then it is unlikely that you will be denied for the amount that you need.
When you need quick money in desperate situations, then online loan lenders can be an excellent solution. All you have to do to get the process started is fill out an online loan application that only takes a few minutes and then submit the application. You will get a response within a few business hours to your request and you may need to answer some questions over the phone. You will need to have a valid checking account and, in some states, you will also need a valid driver's license.
Once you have gone through the initial process of applying, you will be given a set of payment options to consider. Most people do not realize that payday loans give clients options on how they want to pay the loan back. After you have analyzed the options and made your choice, then you will see the money in your checking account within one business day or less. It is a convenient, simple and discrete way of getting the emergency cash you need to handle those issues that always seem to come up when payday is still several days away.
People often wonder how much they can actually borrow from online loan lenders. That answer depends on several factors. First of all, if you are going to get money from online loan lenders, then only get what you need. You will have to pay that loan back with your next paycheck, so piling on the loan balance is not a good idea. Determine exactly how much you need to cover only your emergency bills and then ask to borrow just that much.
Online loan lenders usually have a maximum amount they will lend. The amount can vary from lender to lender, but in most cases it is around ,000. When you consider that you are only talking about a short-term loan to take care of an emergency expense, then that kind of a ceiling is more than adequate. If you have to borrow more than that, then you probably have an issue that requires a bit more complicated financial solution.
Most online loan lenders will limit how much you can borrow based on how much money you make each month. But it is important to remember that online loan lenders do not do a credit check and they usually have very lenient borrowing guidelines. As long as you meet the minimum income requirements to be approved for a loan, then it is unlikely that you will be denied for the amount that you need.
When you need quick money in desperate situations, then online loan lenders can be an excellent solution. All you have to do to get the process started is fill out an online loan application that only takes a few minutes and then submit the application. You will get a response within a few business hours to your request and you may need to answer some questions over the phone. You will need to have a valid checking account and, in some states, you will also need a valid driver's license.
Once you have gone through the initial process of applying, you will be given a set of payment options to consider. Most people do not realize that payday loans give clients options on how they want to pay the loan back. After you have analyzed the options and made your choice, then you will see the money in your checking account within one business day or less. It is a convenient, simple and discrete way of getting the emergency cash you need to handle those issues that always seem to come up when payday is still several days away.
Thursday, August 2, 2012
Getting Home Loan Online With Bad Credit: What Lenders Are Looking For
For many people seeking a new home, the idea of getting their mortgage online seems a little strange. But there are several reasons why it makes sense to seek a home loan online, with bad credit scores ignored being one of the biggest.
As with all loans, there are clear criteria to meet before there can be any hope of securing mortgage approval online. But because everything over the Internet is faster, and online lenders specialize in bad credit lending, there can be greater confidence in getting a better deal.
When it comes to applying for these home loans online, there are three key areas that every applicant should know is of special interest to lenders. They include the size of the down payment, whether bad credit has been improved, and the employment status of the applicant.
The Down Payment
The down payment is a far more significant part of the application process than many people think, especially when applying for a home loan online with bad credit. From the point of view of the lender, bad credit always adds to the risk factor. But if the payment is large, then the level of risk is lowered.
For example, with a normal 10% down payment on a 0,000 house, only ,000 is made with a ,000 mortgage required to complete the purchase. But if a larger payment of 20% were made, then the required mortgage falls to ,000. With a lower sum borrowed, the potential loss for the lender is lower too.
It is the same principal whether seeking mortgage approval online or from more traditional mortgage providers. And since saving such large cash sums requires real financial discipline, it is highly regarded by lenders, increasing the chances of getting the home loan greatly.
Signs of Credit Score Improvement
Low credit scores definitely are a hindrance when applying for large loans, but most mortgage lenders are open-minded over the circumstance that lead to the score. And they are very receptive to applicants who have made a concerted effort to improve their poor scores. This is a huge benefit when applying for a home loan online with bad credit.
Signs of improvement give a very clear indication of just how committed the applicant is to securing the mortgage. It usually means some careful planning is needed well in advance to make any real impact on the score. This degree of forethought can certainly help when seeking mortgage approval online.
The best way to improve your score is to take out a single consolidation loan, and buy out all of the existing debts. It can mean freeing up a lot of extra funds to commit to the home loan repayments. By lowering the interest charged on a mortgage, real savings are made. Just 0 saved each month adds up to ,000 over 30 years.
Having A Reliable Employment Status
Having a large income is no guarantee that an application will be approved. Mortgage providers want to know the source of the income is reliable, and that long-term employment is secured. When seeking a home loan online with bad credit, proving the ability to repay over the full term of the mortgage is essential.
This kind of security cannot be provided by a high-paying short-term contract job, so the size of your income matters little. And as tempting as it might be to believe that mortgage approval online is easy to get, job security still needs to be proven.
Also, remember that the debt-to-income ratio all mortgage providers go by limits the share of excess income for loan repayments to 40%, so home loan repayments must be within that range if approval is to be secured.
As with all loans, there are clear criteria to meet before there can be any hope of securing mortgage approval online. But because everything over the Internet is faster, and online lenders specialize in bad credit lending, there can be greater confidence in getting a better deal.
When it comes to applying for these home loans online, there are three key areas that every applicant should know is of special interest to lenders. They include the size of the down payment, whether bad credit has been improved, and the employment status of the applicant.
The Down Payment
The down payment is a far more significant part of the application process than many people think, especially when applying for a home loan online with bad credit. From the point of view of the lender, bad credit always adds to the risk factor. But if the payment is large, then the level of risk is lowered.
For example, with a normal 10% down payment on a 0,000 house, only ,000 is made with a ,000 mortgage required to complete the purchase. But if a larger payment of 20% were made, then the required mortgage falls to ,000. With a lower sum borrowed, the potential loss for the lender is lower too.
It is the same principal whether seeking mortgage approval online or from more traditional mortgage providers. And since saving such large cash sums requires real financial discipline, it is highly regarded by lenders, increasing the chances of getting the home loan greatly.
Signs of Credit Score Improvement
Low credit scores definitely are a hindrance when applying for large loans, but most mortgage lenders are open-minded over the circumstance that lead to the score. And they are very receptive to applicants who have made a concerted effort to improve their poor scores. This is a huge benefit when applying for a home loan online with bad credit.
Signs of improvement give a very clear indication of just how committed the applicant is to securing the mortgage. It usually means some careful planning is needed well in advance to make any real impact on the score. This degree of forethought can certainly help when seeking mortgage approval online.
The best way to improve your score is to take out a single consolidation loan, and buy out all of the existing debts. It can mean freeing up a lot of extra funds to commit to the home loan repayments. By lowering the interest charged on a mortgage, real savings are made. Just 0 saved each month adds up to ,000 over 30 years.
Having A Reliable Employment Status
Having a large income is no guarantee that an application will be approved. Mortgage providers want to know the source of the income is reliable, and that long-term employment is secured. When seeking a home loan online with bad credit, proving the ability to repay over the full term of the mortgage is essential.
This kind of security cannot be provided by a high-paying short-term contract job, so the size of your income matters little. And as tempting as it might be to believe that mortgage approval online is easy to get, job security still needs to be proven.
Also, remember that the debt-to-income ratio all mortgage providers go by limits the share of excess income for loan repayments to 40%, so home loan repayments must be within that range if approval is to be secured.
Urgent cash loans-Solve your financial matters with swiftness
Are you sad because you are not able to fulfill your long awaited desires due to inadequate monthly income? Here is the solution of your problem. Now with the ease of urgent cash loans, one can avail quick and immediate finance to meet his expenses and desires without any apprehension. This loan is small help for everyone who are staying on payday but unaffordable to fulfill their needs.
For getting the benefits of urgent cash loans, borrowers have to qualify some conditions for urgent cash loans and that are:
1. He must be permanent citizen of UK. 2. He must attain 18 years old or more. 3. Must be working regularly with the basic salary of 00. 4. Having a bank account is necessary for direct money deposit.
Online application method is the hassle free way to avail the required funds with hassle free payday loans. You do not have to leave the comfort of your home or office. Foremost requirement is that you have to explore the online financial market to get the affordable deal of all. Then, fill a single online application form with few required details and submit it. The money that you need will transfer in your checking account within least hours.
One can utilize the borrowed amount for any purpose. The amount of money that you can borrow can be ranges from 0 to 00. It basically depends upon your monthly payday. You can repay it as per your convenience when you receive your upcoming payday. Expenses like household bills, unexpected medical costs, organizing birthday party, credit card dues etc. can easily be paid off without any lender's restrictions.
The good thing about urgent cash loans is that bad creditors can also be eligible for this loan. Do not get agitated if you have the tags like default, late payment, CCJs, or bankruptcy, as does not matter. There is no discrimination between the good creditor and the bad creditor.
No need of valuable asset makes the loan procedure of urgent cash loans more easy and trouble free. No faxing and extensive paper work hassle needs to be faced. One can just get the pleasure of immediate fiscal assistance without any delay and mess.
For getting the benefits of urgent cash loans, borrowers have to qualify some conditions for urgent cash loans and that are:
1. He must be permanent citizen of UK. 2. He must attain 18 years old or more. 3. Must be working regularly with the basic salary of 00. 4. Having a bank account is necessary for direct money deposit.
Online application method is the hassle free way to avail the required funds with hassle free payday loans. You do not have to leave the comfort of your home or office. Foremost requirement is that you have to explore the online financial market to get the affordable deal of all. Then, fill a single online application form with few required details and submit it. The money that you need will transfer in your checking account within least hours.
One can utilize the borrowed amount for any purpose. The amount of money that you can borrow can be ranges from 0 to 00. It basically depends upon your monthly payday. You can repay it as per your convenience when you receive your upcoming payday. Expenses like household bills, unexpected medical costs, organizing birthday party, credit card dues etc. can easily be paid off without any lender's restrictions.
The good thing about urgent cash loans is that bad creditors can also be eligible for this loan. Do not get agitated if you have the tags like default, late payment, CCJs, or bankruptcy, as does not matter. There is no discrimination between the good creditor and the bad creditor.
No need of valuable asset makes the loan procedure of urgent cash loans more easy and trouble free. No faxing and extensive paper work hassle needs to be faced. One can just get the pleasure of immediate fiscal assistance without any delay and mess.
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Why Earmarks Never Benefit The Average American Taxpayer
This article sets out to prove the following hypothesis:
"Congressional earmarks never benefit the average taxpayer and provide advantage only to incumbent politicians."
Federal budget earmarks are specific financial grants of taxpayer money to businesses and other organizations, usually granted in return for a donation to the sponsoring politician's re-election campaign.
However, despite this trade off of taxpayer money for campaign donations, I have heard some people defend their Congressman or woman and their earmarks because they "they bring home the pork/bacon" to the home Congressional district. They act as if the money their Congressional representative directs back to someone or some organization in their district makes it a good idea to continue the earmark process, especially if their Congressional representative is conniving enough to get more than the next politician. But, consider the following math:
- The organization, Citizens Against Government Waste, who studies the earmark process, estimated that Federal earmarks in 2009 totalled .6 billion and 10,160 individual earmarks. Since we already know that the level of earmarks exceeded 11,000 in Obama's latest budget, let's conservatively assume that 2010 earmarks wasted billion of taxpayer dollars.
- The latest estimate of the United States population is approximately 308,941,909.
- There are 435 Congressional districts.
- There are, on average, 710,211 people in each Congressional district.
- If we divide the total dollars of earmarks by the number of Congressional districts we see that an average Congressional district should expect ,977,011 in earmark money to be directed to each district.
- If we divide ,977,011 by 710,211 in an average district, each person in that average district should expect to get .74 in benefit from Federal earmarks.
Thus, some people are happy to get some value back for their tax dollars when earmark money comes back to their district. However, what they fail to realize is that while they may be getting earmark money back, they are also funding earmarks in 434 other Congressional districts. If we remove ,977,011 from the total billion earmark total and divide that by the population of the United States that do not live in your average district, we see that we are contributing .... .74 to support earmarks in the other Congressional districts. In other words, it is a zero sum game when you come to average district sizes and average earmark levels.
In a zero sum game, we pay as much in earmarks to support other districts as we may be getting into our district. The only beneficiaries are politicians that barter those earmarks for campaign donations and the few people or organizations in the district that receive the earmarks. Would it not be better to give an average family of four about 0 to spend as they please (.74 times four), since they earned the money, then let the political class use it for their own perpetuation in office?
Let's look at another example. Some people might say that earmarks are a good thing if their Congressman or woman is sneaky enough to get more than an average level of earmark dollars. Wouldn't that be a good thing for my district? Not necessarily. Consider my Congressman from the Tampa Bay area. According to several sources, in 2009 my Congressman was responsible for getting funding for 86 earmarks worth 2,660,000, almost four times the amount of earmark dollars the average Congressional district would expect. Thus, you would expect that those of us in the Congressman's district would be ecstatic, he really brought home the pork. However, consider what some of this money was used for and the fact that I live in Palm Harbor, Florida:
- Some of the earmark money was used for road construction in St. Petersburg, Florida
- Some of the earmark money was used for revitalization of downtown Clearwater, Florida
- Some of the earmark money was used for a sewer upgrade in Treasure Island, Florida
As you might expect, I am not very happy about the high number of earmarks in my Congressional district since the short list of examples above, and others not listed, have absolutely no impact on my life except for the fact that my taxes helped to finance these earmarks. I have never been in Treasure Island, I do not shop in downtown Clearwater, and I rarely go to St. Petersburg. Thus, there is no reason to be excited about the higher than average levels of my Congressman's earmark bonanza since they have no benefit to me. I would prefer to keep the taxes I paid to support earmarks and let the residents of St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and Treasure Island pay for their own expenses.
That is why Step 44 in "Love My Country, Loathe My Government" is so important: Prohibit the use of Federal programs or tax dollars for any project unless it materially benefits a high percentage of residents in at least five states. As we have proved mathematically above, there is no financial benefit to taxpayers when earmarks are involved, even if my Congressional representative is better than average at landing earmark money. We end up subsidizing earmarks in ever other district and earmark money coming into our district rarely benefits the average taxpayer. Better to let us keep our money and spend it in our local communities on things and services we need and not subsidize incumbents re-election campaigns.
"Congressional earmarks never benefit the average taxpayer and provide advantage only to incumbent politicians."
Federal budget earmarks are specific financial grants of taxpayer money to businesses and other organizations, usually granted in return for a donation to the sponsoring politician's re-election campaign.
However, despite this trade off of taxpayer money for campaign donations, I have heard some people defend their Congressman or woman and their earmarks because they "they bring home the pork/bacon" to the home Congressional district. They act as if the money their Congressional representative directs back to someone or some organization in their district makes it a good idea to continue the earmark process, especially if their Congressional representative is conniving enough to get more than the next politician. But, consider the following math:
- The organization, Citizens Against Government Waste, who studies the earmark process, estimated that Federal earmarks in 2009 totalled .6 billion and 10,160 individual earmarks. Since we already know that the level of earmarks exceeded 11,000 in Obama's latest budget, let's conservatively assume that 2010 earmarks wasted billion of taxpayer dollars.
- The latest estimate of the United States population is approximately 308,941,909.
- There are 435 Congressional districts.
- There are, on average, 710,211 people in each Congressional district.
- If we divide the total dollars of earmarks by the number of Congressional districts we see that an average Congressional district should expect ,977,011 in earmark money to be directed to each district.
- If we divide ,977,011 by 710,211 in an average district, each person in that average district should expect to get .74 in benefit from Federal earmarks.
Thus, some people are happy to get some value back for their tax dollars when earmark money comes back to their district. However, what they fail to realize is that while they may be getting earmark money back, they are also funding earmarks in 434 other Congressional districts. If we remove ,977,011 from the total billion earmark total and divide that by the population of the United States that do not live in your average district, we see that we are contributing .... .74 to support earmarks in the other Congressional districts. In other words, it is a zero sum game when you come to average district sizes and average earmark levels.
In a zero sum game, we pay as much in earmarks to support other districts as we may be getting into our district. The only beneficiaries are politicians that barter those earmarks for campaign donations and the few people or organizations in the district that receive the earmarks. Would it not be better to give an average family of four about 0 to spend as they please (.74 times four), since they earned the money, then let the political class use it for their own perpetuation in office?
Let's look at another example. Some people might say that earmarks are a good thing if their Congressman or woman is sneaky enough to get more than an average level of earmark dollars. Wouldn't that be a good thing for my district? Not necessarily. Consider my Congressman from the Tampa Bay area. According to several sources, in 2009 my Congressman was responsible for getting funding for 86 earmarks worth 2,660,000, almost four times the amount of earmark dollars the average Congressional district would expect. Thus, you would expect that those of us in the Congressman's district would be ecstatic, he really brought home the pork. However, consider what some of this money was used for and the fact that I live in Palm Harbor, Florida:
- Some of the earmark money was used for road construction in St. Petersburg, Florida
- Some of the earmark money was used for revitalization of downtown Clearwater, Florida
- Some of the earmark money was used for a sewer upgrade in Treasure Island, Florida
As you might expect, I am not very happy about the high number of earmarks in my Congressional district since the short list of examples above, and others not listed, have absolutely no impact on my life except for the fact that my taxes helped to finance these earmarks. I have never been in Treasure Island, I do not shop in downtown Clearwater, and I rarely go to St. Petersburg. Thus, there is no reason to be excited about the higher than average levels of my Congressman's earmark bonanza since they have no benefit to me. I would prefer to keep the taxes I paid to support earmarks and let the residents of St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and Treasure Island pay for their own expenses.
That is why Step 44 in "Love My Country, Loathe My Government" is so important: Prohibit the use of Federal programs or tax dollars for any project unless it materially benefits a high percentage of residents in at least five states. As we have proved mathematically above, there is no financial benefit to taxpayers when earmarks are involved, even if my Congressional representative is better than average at landing earmark money. We end up subsidizing earmarks in ever other district and earmark money coming into our district rarely benefits the average taxpayer. Better to let us keep our money and spend it in our local communities on things and services we need and not subsidize incumbents re-election campaigns.
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