finances

Now that the tax deadline for 2022 has passed, as a business owner, you might be left thinking about ways to make it easier when the next one rolls around. Since many are busy enough actually running the business, it's easy to push the accounting work to the side, which is fine... until tax season approaches. By then, you have a mammoth job ahead of you.
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No matter the app or online reservation platform, renting a car can often be a headache. It's rarely clear which add-ons are necessary, costs range widely between rental companies, and what type of insurance you need. Here are some tips for navigating the rental car market.
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With unemployment rates reaching all-time lows in many areas throughout the country and positive job projections on the horizon for the foreseeable future, finding employment should be as simple as showing up. And, in some sectors, that may be true: a record number of Americans left their jobs in 2021 and 2022, creating a market flush with openings. But many job markets and industries — those with great compensation, flexibility, and benefits, in particular — have remained highly competitive, and job seekers need to offer strong resumes, cover letters, and interviews to secure these desirable positions.
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After watching gas prices skyrocket, savvy buyers in North Carolina are thinking twice about big purchases like vacations, automobiles, and homes. While speculation seems to be vacillating between optimistic and decidedly less than, consumers are left with questions and not many answers. Does it make more sense to drain your savings to pay for a new vehicle or to finance with any number of loan options?
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Amidst all the excitement (and worries, reservations, and, yes, sometimes tears) of an emptying nest, parents often fail to consider their kids' health insurance in the ensuing chaos. While most colleges and universities mandate student health insurance, those young adults choosing a different path may fall through the coverage cracks. And, navigating health insurance options and necessities can be overwhelming for even the savviest of parents.
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Fraudulent charges to your personal or business accounts can be both financially and emotionally devastating. Even if you do eventually recover the funds, the stress and time that results from having been stolen from can take a toll.
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For new homeowners, if you managed to buy a house in today's market, you definitely have a lot to celebrate. So now what? Well, whether you just purchased your dream home and plan to stay in it forever, or a property you hope to use as a stepping stone to better things, there are a few things you need to know in order to make your investment work for you.
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Winter is coming, and with increased costs on gas, food, and just about everything else, it's no surprise that your energy bill might threaten to strain your budget this season, too. But there's actually a lot you can do to stay cozy and warm and reduce your energy consumption this winter. Here are some ways to save on heating.
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Every type of business comes with its own unique risks. When it comes to insuring your business, you want to make sure you have the right type and amount of coverage, while not paying for coverage you really don't need. So how can you make sure you're getting the best deal, but not putting your business at risk?
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Most people these days are concerned about saving money and reducing their family's carbon footprint. We do this by turning off the lights, installing energy-saving devices, and making sure our homes are efficient in whatever ways we can. But did you know that there are many appliances in your home that may be using up energy and costing you money, even when they are completely turned off? Read on to learn more about these "energy vampires" and how you can prevent them from silently wasting your home's energy resources.
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Starting a family is a momentous and joyful occasion. But it can also be quite daunting for some, especially when it comes to the financial aspects involved. Frequent questions include: How much is this all going to cost? What type of insurance will I need?
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Although some in the U.S. have been fortunate enough to make it through the past eight months with their bank accounts intact, there's no doubt that many of us have struggled financially this year. Many have lost jobs, been forced to temporarily move in with relatives, or just found that they couldn't quite make ends meet. While the end of the pandemic (or at least the worst of it) seems to be in sight, many of us will still be struggling with the financial fallout for some time. Here are some ways you can work to stay within your budget while money is still tight.
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A used car can be a great investment and often makes much more sense than buying new. But one major downside is that you don't always know what you're getting. With just a little bit of knowledge, however, you can become a confident used car consumer.
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In many cases, a warranty can seem like a sneaky way for manufacturers to squeeze a few extra bucks out of their customers. In some cases, purchasing a warranty might actually be a good idea. Whether you're thinking about signing up for a warranty on a major purchase, or deciding whether to pay a few extra bucks for a warranty on a small appliance while standing in line at Target, here's what you need to know in order to make the best decision.
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Deciding to sell your small business is no small decision. Whether you're moving on to a new opportunity, shifting your professional focus, or just handing over the reins to an owner with fresh enthusiasm, it's always bittersweet to let go of something that you undoubtedly poured yourself into. Here are some things you can do to ease the transition and leave on a positive note:
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Should you sell your house without an agent? It depends on many factors. As we enter one of the prime buying and selling seasons of the year, here are some pros and cons of selling your home agent-free, along with a few tips to guide you through the process.
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A great doctor can make all the difference in your quality of life, and can even have serious consequences for your health. If you're between doctors or in the process of finding someone new (maybe you moved to a new town, or your previous doctor retired) it can be tough. Here's how to begin your search for a top-notch medical professional that you can trust.
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Finance and romance, both can make people crazy. Put them together and you might just double the insanity. If you're in a committed relationship, however, there's no way around it. Whether you're already married or on your way, here are some tips for managing your money as a couple:
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For the average American, it's nearly impossible to get by in the modern world without taking on some debt. But, used wisely, debt can be a part of a healthy financial picture and not a chain around your neck. Keep reading to learn the difference between good debt and bad debt, what to do about old debts, and how to choose which debts to take on in the future.
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When the last of the children head off to college or out on their own, some parents, although sad, breathe a sigh of relief. For many, getting the kids out of the house will immediately relieve some serious financial stress. But it's important to be smart with how you handle that extra income so that you're setting yourself and your children up for a secure future. Here's what to do when your dependents become independent:
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If you're heading for retirement or even if it's a ways off, you might already be writing that bucket list of things to do and places to see as soon as you don't have to show up to work every day. But before that happy day arrives, there's a different list of things you should cross off to ensure that your golden years are truly carefree.
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In one of our latest blog posts we talked about cleaning up your personal finances. Now that we've made it through tax season, it's a smart idea to evaluate your business financial picture as well. Here are some tips on how to appraise your company's financial health, and make improvements for its future:
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Spring is a great time to clear away the clutter and freshen your living and working spaces for the year ahead. Why not borrow the idea and give your personal finances a thorough "cleaning" too?
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