The Same Old Scams Keep Rotating

Nothing annoys me more than knowing people are still being scammed of their hard earned money. One scam I thought had dwindled away (for the most part) was the Nigerian scams. But, today I received something disguised as a comment on an article I had written requesting that I go to a particular website, provide banking information and a check would be sent to me to deposit into my account.

Why? you may wonder. There was a comment included that said I appeared friendly from my profile. While I do consider myself a friendly person, I have not met anyone in all my years that has just wanted to give me money just because. Neither am I naive.

Can you imagine what would have happened if I had sent in my personal banking information to them, or deposited a check into my account from this strange individual? What if I started writing checks based on the belief that this newfound money was in my account? I shudder to think about it. While I didn't take those steps, I know someone out there will based on the belief that their situation is different. Perhaps they are more trusting.

Remember, be careful. Various scams are in full force, more than ever. Before doing anything, check and then double check. If you are uneasy- don't do it. If it seems to good to be true-remember it is!

Make it Fun and Involve Your Child in Your Business

I know you are probably looking at that statement, and saying “are you kidding?” Our schedules are busy, and there barely seems to be enough hours in the day to accomplish tasks as it is.  But by setting aside time now to explain things to your child regarding business, responsibilities, commitments, and the importance of organizational skills-this can prove to be rewarding for them in the future. The most important lessons begin at home, and here are a few simple steps you can take to make this happen.

 

Explain and Demonstrate Responsibilities

 

Children learn not only what you say, but they learn things by what they observe you doing. If you have a common habit, there is a strong possibility they may want to mimic it. Ensure it is a positive habit. Make a habit of setting aside time monthly to discuss finances with your child. This doesn’t have to be anything long and complicated, but make it age appropriate. They must understand that the means to accumulating wealth and running a successful business is by saving, investing and planning for those rainy days that are guaranteed to come. Your status will have nothing to do with the labels you wear because sooner or later those will become worn out. The younger this is explained and understood, the better.

 

Understanding Finances is Fun

 

Make it a fun experience to learn about money. The more fun you have while learning, the stronger eagerness and interest will emerge. Find board games such as Monopoly that allow you to have hands on experience with paper money, buying and purchasing properties, earning additional funds etc. Also, check to see what opportunities your child has at school to obtain additional knowledge about money and get them involved in it.

If They Want Your Money, Beware!

With the economy still in a volatile state, consumers are hanging on to their purse strings tighter than ever. I, too find that I am watching my pennies a little more to stretch them further. One thing that makes me angry is when I hear about people being scammed. When I hear complaints about this occurring, I will spread the word. Recently, I have been hearing about more people networking to connect with others that are interested in starting a business or improving the one they have already established. Now, don’t get me wrong I am in no way saying networking is bad, but what is bad is when you are tricked in to spending money  you don’t need to. Several consumers contacted me stating they had connected with others online and were instructed to send a payment to be “a part of the business group.” This caused my alarm to go off immediately. For one a book or product wasn’t being purchased. A seminar wasn’t happening. This was strictly a means to be allowed to sit in. Why should you have to pay for that? There may be times when this becomes necessary, but I want you all to know that there are other free ways to connect with others in your area who maintain similiar business goals. Before you open your wallet, take a closer look at who you are networking with.

Three Tips to Keep Extra Money in Your Pocket

Make Yourself Number One

Every month as part of your monthly expenses, remember the first check should be written to yourself and headed directly for your savings account. This can often be difficult especially when you see the numerous bills awaiting you, but there are ways to lessen this pain. Set-up direct deposit, and assign an amount to go to your savings, money market account, investments…do this today so that you no longer have to worry about making the contribution or find yourself wondering where the money went. You will know that your money is being placed where it belongs and is starting to work for you.

 

Save for the Rainy Day

We hear this one too often, and we often take a chance that this day will be down the road. But, what seems to happen is it attacks us when we least expect it. We are then stuck shuffling things around to try to pay the bills, or have to place a charge on a high interest credit card because we didn’t have a backup plan. Make a cash reserve or emergency fund available. Many credit unions are offering Christmas funds, vacation funds etc. to help consumers. Some take as little as $5 to get things started. For years Financial Advisors have stressed setting aside a 6 month reserve, but with the volatile state of the economy it is wise to accrue 8 months of savings because of the length of time it is taking to obtain a new job. Set goals, and look at  what is short range vs. long term. Plan accordingly and make it fun. Check out Suze Orman’s Expense Tracker for assistance.

 

Live Within Your Means

In 2010 make your primary goal- reaching a cash based way of living. Of course there are times you may need to use a credit card for expenses that run higher, but eliminate the day to day living on a credit card for survival. Too often we spend more than what is coming in without realizing it because the process becomes familiar and we get comfortable with our actions. Making more money will not make a difference if you are not taking the proper steps, and doing something positive with it. Make your goal getting in the black and building the wealth today that will provide you with a relaxing future tomorrow.

 

 

I Want My Money in My Pocket Starting this Year

We are all looking for a few simple ways to save money in 2010. As we all know tax time has rapidly arrived again. I know! I know! It isn't something we necessarily look forward to doing, but it is best to approach the task, handle it, and deal with the outcome. If you are using H/R Block this year to assist with your tax preparations, go to http://www.hrblock.com/taxes/office/pi_form.html?retailCoupon=53696 to save $20.00 while getting your taxes processed.

Have you had time to check out Family Christian Stores? Take a glance at their offerings, and perhaps you may find some great reading material. Now thru February 21you can find a coupon at http://www.familychristian.com/email/10/20100126_V1.asp to save you 20% on your next purchase.

Cut your grocery bill in half during 2010 by going to www.smartsource.com-find coupons you can use to purchase your basic need items.

How Much Money Will the Gold Put in My Pocket?

It has been approximately one week since I gathered my collection of gold earrings, watches, necklaces... broken or otherwise that I was no longer going to use;boxed them up and mailed them via Fed Ex. This was done to examine the advertisements seen in newspapers, magazines,and on television regarding earning money for sending in your gold. I still do not have the final outcome of this money making opportunity. However, yesterday I received an email from Gold Rush Now that indicated my jewelry had been received, and my check from the company for this jewelry was on the way. According to the email, it should arrive within the next five days. I cannot wait to see how much this check is going to be. Will it make me smile and gasp from surprise, or will I start laughing and go in to hysterics from the dollar amount? I don't know, but stay tuned because here you will learn the truth about my experience.

Ways to Cut Back, Yet Not Look Cheap

During these difficult economic times, it is almost a daily challenge to find new ways to keep those extra bucks in your pocket. We need to stretch our dollars, as far as we can, and for many this means suddenly finding yourself out of work and in desperate need of a quick solution to carry you through while you trying to figure things out.

Here are several ways to keep extra money in your wallet without creating that "I'm broke," look most are fearful of revealing:

At all costs, make sure your bills are paid on time. For many this may mean resorting to online bill pay to avoid late fees, to avoid purchasing stamps. If you cannot use online bill pay, purchase stamps in advance and keep you calendars updated to ensure bills are mailed in a timely manner.

Instead of going to the movies to see the latest films, go to the library and checkout the latest books, DVD's, and CD's. Going to the theatre costs an avearge of $10 per adult ticket. If you toss in the costs for snacks, that makes for an expensive evening. To avoid feeling deprived, and for an occasional treat, you may want to visit the discount theatre. Many areas have one, and the admission cost is $3.00.

Instead of buying expensive fruits and vegetables at the local grocery store, go to your local farmer's market to save a few dollars. This can greatly reduce your bill, as well as support many local small businesses.

Have items that you need? Perhaps your family members, friends, or neighbors may need the same things. Check and see if you can purchase in bulk and split the cost with them. Sometimes,others are nervous about being the first to ask for what they want. Step out of the box this year and become the one to make that first move.

The cost of gas getting to be too much? Check the cost for a bus pass, local transit system, carpool, biking, or walking. All of these methods will save you dollars, and several will help you get in shape.

For additional valuable tips that can help put you on a terrific path to trimming your budget check out www.tiphero.com

Sometimes a few extra dollars is all you need to jump start your business.