The new year brings resolutions, but it also brings taxes. So, if you’ve resolved to keep more of the money you made last year, take a look at this list of often-overlooked tax deductions. State sales tax Louisiana has its fair share of state taxes. But you can turn these in your favor by claiming […]
Building credit takes time. So, once you have earned a good score, it’s important to hang onto it. Part of knowing how to keep a good credit rating is understanding how you are graded. The other part is creating a plan based on that knowledge. The good news is you only need to know five […]
Last week’s blog talked about setting financial goals. If you are one of the millions of people who transitioned to the gig economy last year, one of those goals might be finding a retirement vehicle to replace your 401(K). One of the most flexible ways is to start an Individual Retirement Account or IRA. When […]
You’ll often read about personal finance based on long-term commitments like budgeting. And it is true. Gaining control of personal finances requires forming good long-term habits. But those habits have to start somewhere, and sometimes they can take root with simple money hacks. One of the most effective areas to try a money hack is […]
Making financial goals can be challenging. To be successful, you need a process for setting goals. Let’s take a look at how to make strong financial goals so you can get the New Year started right. Break away and get serious Take a moment to break away from all the noise when setting goals. Remove […]
Flipping that calendar to December seems to trigger a single question in the minds of many entrepreneurs. How can I lower my end of year tax bill? Often the second thought is on the first one’s heels. I know! I’ll buy something! If you have this thought, then congratulations! You must have had a great […]
It’s that time of year again. Retailers bombard us with ads, urging us to take out our wallets and spend, spend, spend. We all know how hard it is to ignore some of the deals. But these temptations can lead to big trouble after Christmas when inflated credit card bills and deflated savings accounts make […]
You’ve decided to start your own business, and that’s exciting! Your blood is pumping, and your mind is racing, thinking of everything you need to do. Near the top of that list needs to be a decision to use good accounting practices. After all, they can keep your business in the black and you out […]
Telling people how to manage money can be difficult. What works for one person won’t work for someone else. The reason is simple. All financial moves are based on behavior. And people tend to bristle at being told how to behave. So, it is true that there is no best way to budget. But it’s […]
You’ve had a long day, one where nothing seemed to go right. On the way home, you need to unwind and swing by your favorite store. “I’ll just browse,” you tell yourself. Then you see it. That thing you have to have—and it’s on sale! Next thing you know, the plastic is coming out of […]
