Learn about 2015 Tax Changes and tax moves that you can make for the 2016 tax year and beyond…

 

With the tax season holding a special place in my heart due to it being the catalyst for my (and TheWealthIncreaser.com’s) personal finance career, I felt that now was an appropriate time to discuss tax planning for 2016 while at the same time discuss tax changes that have taken place for the 2015 tax season that you can benefit from as you complete your 2015 taxes.

 

Although no major tax changes occurred in 2015 there were several that are worthy of discussion.

 

In this discussion I have attempted to make the understanding as simplistic as possible as I realize that those in the tax industry can make the discussion so perplexing that you–and others will often run away from the discussion–as opposed to grasping the discussion.

 

It is the desire of TheWealthIncreaser.com that you fully grasp this discussion and go on to achieve great success in your and your family’s future.

 

The personal exemption amount that you can deduct has increased:

 

Exemption amount:

 

That amount that you can deduct for each exemption has increased. It was $3,950 for 2014. It is $4,000 for 2015.

 

Exemption phaseout :

 

You lose at least part of the benefit of your exemptions if your adjusted gross income is more than a certain amount.

 

For 2015, this amount is $154,950 for a married individual filing a separate return; $258,250 for a single individual; $284,050 for a head of household; and $309,900 for married individuals filing jointly or a qualifying widow(er).

 

See Phaseout of Exemptions:

 

Here are two types of exemptions you may be able to take:

 

• Personal exemptions for yourself and your spouse,

• Exemptions for dependents (dependency exemptions)

 

 

While each is worth the same amount ($4,000 for 2015), different rules apply to each type.

 

Personal Exemptions

 

You are generally allowed one exemption for yourself. If you are married, you may be allowed one exemption for your spouse. These are called personal exemptions.

 

Your Own Exemption

 

You can take one exemption for yourself unless you can be claimed as a dependent by another taxpayer.

 

The tax season often brings anxiety and confusion for many taxpayers.

 

With the tax laws seeming to shift constantly from year to year many taxpayers fear owing more or receiving less—and over the years we have found that anxiety in the lives of many is real.

 

Based on that real knowledge this page was created in a real attempt to alleviate as much of that fear as possible as it is often a fear that should not be present in most.

 

It is important that your accountant or tax professional keep you up to date during the year so that you can plan more effectively and reduce your annual taxes.

 

With no major new tax legislation making headlines in 2015, you might take a more relaxed approach to tax planning.  That can often be the wrong move!

 

It is important that you plan year round and January is a great time to gather your tax documents for the current year and also plan for next year’s tax season.

 

By doing so early you can potentially plan the necessary actions that will reduce your taxes for the 2016 tax year—and reduce your taxes when you complete your taxes in 2017.

 

It important that you realize that tax laws are always changing, even if it is as minor as keeping up with inflation adjustments.  Some tax laws are tweaked every year, and provisions of tax laws that have been in place in past years are often tweaked by Congress at year end.

 

Some will normally be phased in, extended or eliminated and there can be uncertainty about which tax breaks will be extended even if you plan early in the year—and throughout the year.

 

2015 Tax Rates & Exemption Schedule from the IRS

 

Here are some of the changes for 2015 and beyond that will potentially affect you and your family:

 

Steeper Health Insurance Premium

 

If you didn’t have health insurance in 2014, and you didn’t qualify for an exception to the penalty, the consequences were that you may have paid $95 per person or 1 percent of your household income, whichever is greater.

 

In 2015, you’ll pay $325 per person, or 2 percent of your household income, whichever is greater.  That’s a pretty steep increase.

 

Possible Solutions:

 

Even if you qualify for one of the many exclusions, you may not know that some exceptions require you to apply for a certificate from the state or federal marketplace.

 

You should apply for a certificate early so that you have the required exemption certificate number when you prepare your return.

 

You can also consider enhancing your skills and work on finding a new employer who offers health insurance—or if your current income allows it, or you otherwise qualify—search the public and private marketplace for appropriate and affordable health care for you and your family.

 

Use IRA Rollovers with Caution

 

The glory days of giving yourself a short term (60 days) loan on multiple occasions no longer exists. Using an IRA Rollover was an easy way to “borrow” retirement money for up to 60 days.

 

You could withdraw money from one IRA and wait up to 60 days before you moved it into another IRA.

 

Possible Solution:

 

As of 2015, you must limit borrowing for 60 days to only once from an IRA in a 12-month period.  If you want to move IRA funds using direct “trustee-to-trustee” transfers,  you can still do that as often as you want.

 

Health Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) Have New Guidelines

 

The good news for you in 2013 was that if you were one who didn’t use all of your FSA amounts by the end of the year was that as of 2013, you could roll over $500 from an FSA into the next plan year.

 

Starting in 2015 and beyond, the bad news is that you will be ineligible to participate in a Health Savings Account (HSA) for the year into which you rolled over an amount from a general purpose FSA.

 

Possible Solution:

 

Plan well in advance and do your best to use (spend) all of your contributions for the year by December 31^st of the current tax year.

 

Foster Care Payments for Relatives may be Excluded from Income

 

If you are paid to give non-skilled medical support services and care for a person, living in your home, who has physical, mental or emotional issues, and you receive payments from the state or certified Medicaid provider, those payments can likely be excluded from your taxable income.

 

Previously, a relative could not be considered a foster child, and the income could not be excluded.

 

If this new exclusion applies to you—make sure you use the income exclusion  when you file your taxes in the future!

 

Finally—Higher Education Good News

 

Pell Grants can now be allocated as living expenses.  Yes, that is correct!

Doing so may increase the amount of education expense, such as tuition, that you (or your parents) can use to claim one of the education credits.

 

myRAs are Now Available

 

My Retirement Account or better known as myRA are new introductory retirement accounts and are now being offered through employers.

 

The myRA, or “my Retirement Account,” charges no fees and offers modest, guaranteed growth.

 

That’s a plus for risk-averse clients and those who are new to investing.  You can start a myRA with just $25 and add as little as $5 at a time.  When your accounts are worth $15,000,  you must roll them over into private-sector Roth IRAs.

 

Possible Solution:

 

If you do not have a retirement plan in place—this new product offers you a relatively painless way to get started.  Be sure that you properly establish an emergency fund and pay off or pay down your outstanding debt prior to or while contributing to this plan.

 

Inflation Adjustments

 

It is important that you realize that many areas of the tax code is adjusted for inflation/deflation.   These annual inflation adjustments for 2015 (some that are listed below) may affect you in a positive or negative way.

 

Possible solution:

 

Be aware of  all inflation adjustments and plan appropriately for those that affect you and your family

 

• Standard deduction.    The standard deduction inches up to $6,300 for singles and married persons filing separate returns and to $12,600 for joint filers.  The standard deduction for heads of household is $9,250 in 2015.

 

• Higher income levels for limitation on itemized deductions.  You may see your itemized deductions limited if your incomes is at $258,250 or more ($309,900 for married couples filing jointly).

 

• Personal exemptions.  They’re now a flat $4,000. If you are a high-income earner, the exemption may be phased out.  The phase-out begins with adjusted gross incomes of $258,250 ($309,900 for married couples filing jointly).  Personal exemptions are phased out completely at $380,750 ($432,400 for married couples filing jointly.)

 

• 39.6 percent tax bracket.  This rate affects you if you are single and your income exceeds $413,200 ($464,850 for married taxpayers filing a joint return).

 

• Standard mileage allowance.  The business standard mileage allowance for 2015 is 57.5 cents per mile.

 

• The rate for medical or moving expenses is actually down half a cent, to 23 cents per mile. 

 

• For miles driven in service of charitable organizations, it’s still 14 cents.

 

• Alternative Minimum Tax exemption.  The AMT exemption is $53,600, or $83,400 for joint filers.

 

• Earned Income Credit.  The maximum EIC amount is $6,242 for taxpayers filing jointly with three or more qualifying children.  The maximum amounts for you if you have another filing status and a different number of children are also adjusted.

 

• Estate tax exclusion.  Federal estate tax planning is becoming less of a point for you, unless you are in the fortunate group with a sizable estate, as the estate tax exclusion continues to rise.  An estate can be worth $5,430,000 before it is subject to federal estate tax.

 

• Foreign earned income exclusion.  You may now qualify for an exclusion of up to $100,800.

 

• Employer-sponsored healthcare flexible spending arrangements.  The annual dollar limit on employee contributions to an FSA rises to $2,550.

 

The amount that you can give as a gift to any one person without filing a gift tax return is still $14,000.

 

In addition, the amount your clients can contribute to an IRA remains at no more than $5,500 in a traditional or Roth IRA.

If they’re age 50 or older, they can contribute $6,500.

 

Extended Tax Breaks

 

Tax preparers may get a surprise this year – permanent or temporary extensions of popular tax breaks long before the tax season begins.

By a 23-3 bipartisan vote, the Finance Committee sent a package of tax breaks for individuals, businesses, and energy production to the Senate floor in August.

 

Extensions for the following breaks are included in the package or were approved earlier in the year:

 

• Higher education tuition deduction.  You may still be able to deduct between $2,000 and $4,000 of qualified tuition expense.

 

• Energy credits.  This includes credits for home improvements that improve energy efficiency, such as heating and cooling systems, insulation and windows.

 

• Educator expense deduction.  Teachers can claim up to $250 of non-reimbursed classroom expenses.

 

• Commuting tax breaks.  The extension gives those who commute by train or bus the same $250 monthly tax break for employer-provided subsidies as those who receive employer assistance for parking costs.   The current mass transit deduction is $130 per month.

 

• Deduction for state income tax.  This deduction makes a huge difference to residents of states without a state income tax. This extension has already been approved.

 

• IRA charitable donations.  IRA owners at least age 70 ½ can still make tax-free donations of up to $100,000 from IRAs to certain qualified charities.

 

• Mortgage forgiveness exclusion.  If homeowners who are underwater on their mortgages have part of their loan forgiven by a bank, up to $1 million of the forgiven debt (or $2 million for couples) would be excluded from treatment as income.

 

• Research and development tax credit.  This has been extended for two years.

 

• Deduction for small business equipment purchases of up to $2 million.  This is extended and now includes computer software.

 

• Work Opportunity Tax Credit.  Those who own businesses can claim a credit equal to a certain percentage of wages paid to new hires of one of nine targeted groups, including members of families receiving benefits under the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) program, qualified veterans and ex-felons, designated community residents, vocational rehabilitation referrals, qualified summer youth employees, qualified food and nutrition recipients, qualified SSI recipients, and long-term family assistance recipients.

 

• Energy efficiency tax breaks.  This includes a 10 percent credit for energy efficiency improvements to existing homes, and deductions for construction of energy efficient homes and commercial buildings.

 

Final Thoughts on Your 2015 Taxes & Your Future Tax Planning

 

As 2016 comes in, it’s now the time for the annual review of your taxes.  Now is the time to anticipate (forecast) your 2016 taxes – including 1098’s reporting mortgage interest or W-2’s from employers reporting your annual wages among others.

 

But while gathering documents for your 2015 taxes is important, equally important is the need to adjust your budget to account for changes in the tax code that take effect starting on New Year’s Day that will affect your 2016 taxes.

 

You have been paying taxes and making retirement contributions all year even though taxes don’t need to be filed until April!

 

You will soon know your 2015 tax situation and you can use that knowledge to plan for the 2016 tax year.  Will dependents be added to—or falling off of your 2016 tax forms?  Will your child be attending/graduating from college?  Will you or your spouse retire this year?

 

The above (along with many more questions) are the type of questions that you must ask yourself—and answer appropriately (along with your tax professional) so that you can get a jump on your 2016 taxes and have a realistic understanding of where you will stand when you file your future tax returns.

 

Use any and all of the above information in this discussion to make the right moves—right now—so that you can lessen the tax burden on yourself and your family so that you can live more abundantly in your future.

 

While there are a handful of last-minute strategies that you can use to play catch up on your 2015 tax obligations, the reality is that “now is the time” to start your tax planning for your 2016 taxes.

 

You must know your annual earnings or have a realistic projection—you must know your w-4 withholding, you must know your retirement contributions and you must know all of the other tax related actions that you plan on taking NOW or need to take NOW—that will affect your future taxes.

 

 

In addition, you must plan for one of the most difficult and disheartening experiences while here on planet earth—the loss of a loved one.

 

No one has experienced this at the level that I have (subjective opinion) as I have experienced the loss of my younger brother who looks just like me, my mentor, my God Mother and countless others over the years—including my Aunt and one of my closest friends within 30 days of this discussion.

 

As painful as it may be, you will more than likely at some point in your life have to utilize the following forms.

 

• Decedents – IRS Tax Topic 356

 

• Survivors, Executors, and Administrators – IRS Publication 559

 

Statement of Person Claiming Refund Due a Deceased Taxpayer (Form 1310) (PDF)

 

Now is the time that you seriously consider separating yourself from the crowd and get started now on a successful path to tax planning—and financial planning in general—by approaching your taxes in an intelligent, consistent and proactive manner.

 

By doing so you enhance your and your family’s WEALTH BUILDING FUTURE—IMMEDIATELY!

 

 

The above article was written by Thomas (TJ) Underwood  on January 17, 2016.  Thomas (TJ) Underwood is a licensed real estate broker in the state of Georgia and is the writer behind The Wealth Increaser, Home Buyer 411,  Home Seller 411, The 3 Step Structured Approach to Managing Your Finances, Managing & Improving Your Credit & Finances for this MILLENNIUM and CREDIT & FINANCE IMPROVEMENT MADE EASY—FREE GUIDE. 

He is the creator of TheWealthIncreaser.com where he regularly blogs about helping consumers improve their credit, finance and real estate pursuits in an intelligent, consistent and proactive manner.  He’s always looking for ways to make intelligent finance improvement happen for those who “sincerely desire” success in their future.

You can contact him from a number of sources but the most direct way is to contact him through Realty 1 Strategic Advisors Website.  You can also get highly relevant tips on “living your life more abundantly” and possibly earn revenue at the same time by linking to TheWealthIncreaser.com.

 

 

 Return to About The Wealth Increaser

Copyright®  2014-2016—The Wealth Increaser—All Rights Reserved

 

2015—WoW, what a year! As 2015 came to a close in what appeared to be a great year from all angles at TheWealthIncreaser.com, shock struck me as the news of my dear friend, Maria Pereira, making her transition (less than twelve hours ago at the time of this writing) was brought to my attention. One of my closest and sincere friends over the past twenty-five years or so is no longer on earth—yet her spirit lives on—and I am at this time having a difficult time facing the reality of it all.

 

Those of you who have been following this blog and my other blogs for years know that 2010 was also a bad year for me as I lost both my younger brother and my mentor within months of each other—and in the subsequent year or so lost my God Mother.  As difficult as those times were, are, and continue to be—it is important that you have the attitude that you will continue to move forward and be the absolute best that you can be while here on earth—for this relatively brief time.

 

Hopefully you will find some inspiration in this discussion that will spark something on the inside of you that will start you on a path that will lead you to give it all that you can if you are not now doing so—and be all that you can be while here on planet earth—as you journey toward your destiny and purpose for being!

 

Refreshing Your Mind For Success—What You Can Do Now to Achieve Success in 2016 & Beyond…

 

Learn how you can be a “lightning rod” for success for your family and others by taking the right action on a consistent basis…

 

As 2015 comes to an end in what has seemed like blazing speed, I knew I had to come up with an inspiring and uplifting topic that would not only inspire and motivate you to do much more in your future, I also had to come up with a topic that I could come back to again and again and find inspiration that could inspire me to reach higher heights as well.

 

Even though the words that you are about to read are originating as I hit the typing keys, I have faith that I will achieve both of the objectives listed above.

 

First and foremost it is important that you realize that you must take actions that will make things happen for you and your family. Your works must speak for you and your family and the words that you read on this this page and site—must be made applicable to your and your family’s future—by you, if you are to gain the maximum benefit from this discussion and site.

 

2016 and beyond is the time that you move forward and transform your mind and put your mind in position to take the right actions on a more consistent basis. Don’t let the words that you are reading die on this page or site—put them into action (just as I will) to reach higher heights in your life.  Start or continue on a serious path to achieving  winning success in all areas of your life that you desire to achieve and win in!

 

As you pursue and reach your goals—it is important that you realize that your life is not defined by what you are now worth—but more so by your attitude toward your future and your intentions on putting in place a serious path to success that you will not only follow—but you will utilize appropriately in a manner that is unique to you and your family if you desire to really make your dreams come true.

 

Don’t slow down or lessen your pace—now is the time to accelerate your pace and move toward what you desire in an even more focused and determined manner!

 

Your life experiences are really what is important when it is all said and done and now is the time that you start experiencing life more abundantly and enjoy your future in a manner where you can direct your moves in a manner where you are in control—on a daily basis.

 

You must be productive and count for something while here on planet earth—2016 and beyond is the time that you actually make it a reality as no one can now stop you—except—you!  You must refocus your mind to do more—not less while you are here on earth for this relatively brief time.

 

2016 is the year that you refresh, renew and if applicable restore your mind for continuous success by giving your absolute best.  Do the best that only you can do—and let God do the best that only he can do!

 

You were put on earth to not only reward your senses—achieve the success that you desire—and reward yourself appropriately, but you were also put on earth to be a blessing to others.  2016 and beyond is the time for you  to put a plan in place to leave a lasting legacy and help others along the way—as you continue to excel in your area of expertise.

 

After over 20 plus years in the personal finance industry I have found that coming down on and condemning the wrong financial moves that consumers make is not the best approach and will not cause the change in behavior that will move them toward their goals more efficiently!

 

However, a solution to their issue that is written or presented in an intelligent, understandable and uplifting style will often cause them to change their actions because they can readily see and understand in clear terms what is being said in a manner that they can relate to.

 

If you have not adequately addressed your financial concerns or pursued new ways that you can achieve real success in a more efficient manner—you can now learn how to do so in a wiser manner by focusing on—and achieving success at the level that you desire from this day forward.

 

In today’s economy it is imperative that you control your behavior and take the right action on a daily basis that takes you closer to your goals. It is important that you do what is good and what you are led to do (your life purpose) and always realize that opposition is in place against anything that you really want to come true.

 

We are all redeemable, this site is a platform for those who are willing to sacrifice some time now (utilizing your valuable time to look at new ways of reaching your goals)—to achieve what they really desire later. Your quitting must never be an option in your mind and you must keep on moving to not only better yourself and your family—but others as well.

 

Due to the success of this site The Wealth Increaser could be mesmerized, however TheWealthIncreaser.com and the focus since inception has not been fogged by the success of this and other sites as the focus and discipline that is needed to do what is necessary on a consistent basis was formulated early—and this site has not and will not waver from its intended goal.

 

Over the years I have realized that just knowing the right way or a better way to manage your finances brings comfort to the hearts and minds of those who truly receive the information and apply it in their daily life.

 

Did you know that uncomfortable situations are often the birthplace for you (and others) doing something really big?

 

Your consistent thoughts in the right direction along with a real heart-felt willingness to achieve the success that you desire is really the nucleus for you attaining that success. Whether you choose to use this site, other sites, financial planners, books, audio, video or other means—the real path to success begins—and ends inside of you!

 

In 2016 and beyond do something that is cutting edge and different (whether utilizing this site to find a new and inspiring way to look at your financial future) and bring into existence something that is new, exciting and beneficial to humanity.  From 2016 onward—you must know in your mind and heart that you are ready, you appreciate what is about to occur—and you realize that it can only occur by you taking the right action on a consistent basis.

 

Your “mental environment” (where you spend the majority of your mental thoughts and activity) and the choices that you make on a daily basis will either hold you back or move you forward. In 2016 and beyond it is imperative that you have “dominant thoughts” that are uplifting, righteous and takes you and your family in the direction that you need to be going!

 

You are a product of your environment—your mental environment is often the most critical environment—even if you are in an adverse physical environment—you can overcome that environment by using your willpower and determination to do just that.

 

That is not saying the process will be easy!  Likewise improving your mental environment may not be an easy task—but you can do so with the right focus, determination and a plan of action that you will not waver from.

 

What direction are you walking in?  What direction are you talking in?  What direction are you thinking in?  Are you making your life count?  

 

Are your thoughts of escapism and running from what you face on a daily basis—or are you boldly approaching your future in a manner where success is the only outcome that is possible?

 

Don’t be confused by the mixed messages that are often communicated in the personal finance industry! 

 

Utilize your mind and thought process to acquire the needed skills that are required to manage your finances on a daily basis in this economy—or any economy!

 

Always realize that if you focus on doing your best—you can achieve lasting success.

 

But how can you put yourself in position to do your best?  In this current economy of information exchange it is important that you realize that how we relate to each other has improved.  What has not improved is the fact that scammers are all around you!

 

It is important that you do your “due diligence” in all areas whether you are utilizing this site, other sites, books, audio products, video products, financial planners or any other source.

 

As you read this article you must realize that intention without corresponding action will bring you no real satisfaction—and that is as it should be.  You must take positive consistent action and realize that you can never go wrong if you take the right actions consistently.  Every choice that you make in your life originates inside of your mind and heart.  What is your motive for doing the right thing?  Right Now and throughout your lifetime!

 

You can find out how you can live more abundantly by seeking out better ways of managing your finances (or any area of your life).  The information on this site—or any other site is not going to fall out of the sky and land on your brain—unless you seek to meet the landing!

 

Anything of significance will take effort on your part and it is imperative that you seek out a better future.  The Wealth Increaser believes that the success that you desire is now within your reach!

 

After (and while) you achieve that success the best way that you can say Thank You from TheWealthIncreaser.com’s perspective—is to help someone else as they journey here on planet earth.

 

For 2016 and beyond your love, patience, kindness and helping hand can be the nucleus to getting someone else started on a serious path to success—just as we are certain that TheWealthIncreaser.com has done for you—or will soon do!

 

Helping others in the right manner is what is really important!

 

However, you don’t have to shortchange yourself and your family along the way—if you make the choice to give it your best in 2016 and beyond—today!

 

It is important that you hear and receive all of the information that your brain processes in the right manner so that you can use your mind appropriately and grow mentally.  You must be thoughtful, critical, curious and analytical—as you go through life from this day forward—and throughout your lifetime.

 

By doing so your and your family’s future will be much brighter in 2016—and beyond.

 

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Return to About The Wealth Increaser

 

Copyright—2014-2021—TheWealthIncreaser.com–All Rights Reserved

 

Originally published in 2015 and updated on 11/10/24

 

Learn why challenging yourself to do more is the starting point for actually doing more…

 

TheWealthIncreaser.com realizes that we are living in difficult times and many visitors to this site have an uncertain feel about their future—whether it be financial or otherwise.  This discussion is about how you can take bold action at all times and achieve what you desire in your future.

 

However you must challenge yourself to do more!  Responding positively to any and all adversity that occurs during your lifetime will build you like steel—strength is gained, a series of adverse happenings in your life may occur to humble you!  You make think it is over—but that is only the beginning as adversity often occurs on multiple fronts.

 

On many occasions adversity or unwanted occurrences in your life—is occurring to strengthen you like steel—so that you can never fail in the future in achieving something really BIG!

 

Challenge yourself  to do more and transform your current attitude toward your future by having a positive and bold outlook on what you will achieve in your future.  Don’t be satisfied where you now are!

 

The goal of this discussion is to get you to reach higher and achieve more while you are here on planet earth.

 

In this discussion you can  learn how to challenge yourself so that you can be successful (able to live at the level that you desire but you have no real concern for the outcomes of others) and do something of significance for yourself and your family.

 

However, you can also live at the level that you desire by challenging yourself to do more during your lifetime to improve the outcomes of your fellow humans in a real and meaningful way—so that they too can have outcomes that are beneficial and lasting as a result of the actions that you chose to take during your lifetime.

 

You can make the choice to achieve personal success AND focus on others and leave a legacy where others can succeed—even long after you are gone!

 

You can now pursue (go after, crave with all of your might) a path to success that has real meaning—however you must challenge yourself to do more at this time.  Ask yourself at this time what is most important and relevant to your and your family’s future—and put goal setting and proper planning in place to achieve the goals that you desire.

 

Ask yourself at this time what legacy you would like to leave?  Ask yourself at this time how you can put into action processes that can help others improve their situation while on earth?  Ask yourself what you are passionate about?

 

Put a plan in place to make it happen NOW—without delay!

 

Immobility is everywhere—don’t let it be a part of your personality!  

 

You don’t have to participate in idleness—if you choose not too!

 

Lack of effort is everywhere—however it does not have to be present in your life!   If you make the choice right now to do more and actually challenge yourself do more—NOW—you can put in the work to make what you desire occur much more efficiently than if you fail to do so!

 

 

Now is the time that you put a plan in place to bring into existence the outcomes that you desire.  Now is the time that you make the decision to never give up on your dream(s) and pursue them relentlessly!

 

Now is the time that you realize that time will move forward whether you challenge yourself to pursue your dream(s) with passion or you decide to do otherwise!  Time moves forward regardless and it is important that you challenge yourself to do more and you put in place a real plan to pursue your goals at this time.

 

If you do what you  are passionate about in your heart and mind, you can bring about new ways of doing things, new ways for others to achieve their goals—and bring into existence a new reality for your family, friends, loved ones, and society.

 

You must realize that you are already successful and you have something powerful on the inside that you must bring out and share with others—and you can do so at this time if you sincerely CHALLENGE YOURSELF at this time to bring it all out.

 

However, you must do it at your highest level of excellence.  You can then obtain the joy and satisfaction and also help others along the way (be of significance to others) in your area of expertise—or your life purpose—while here on planet earth.

 

You must resist the temptation to move in the opposite direction of your big dream!  

 

By being negatively influenced by others, feeling you are inadequate or undeserving, or feeling you lack what it takes to do what needs to be done—you limit the ability of your mind and heart to make big things happen in your life!!

 

Now is the time that you become uninterested in looking back at your past failures and now is the time that you become highly uplifted about your future and the significant success that now lies ahead in front of you that you now see in your mind and heart.

 

It is important that the influences that your mind receives are the type that can help you to make the right choices!

 

You have a right to choose the course of your future and challenge yourself to do more, good or bad.  You can choose to do so in a manner that is inspiring and uplifting and can take you where you need to be—or you can choose to do otherwise.

 

Now is the time that you see how success is achieved and now is the time that you too put a plan in place to achieve greater success and achieve at a level that you may have thought was unattainable.  You must contrast in your mind short-term pain versus long-term gain—look at the big picture—family, friends, society and where you truly want to go and that can help you make  better decisions and choices at the various stages in your life.

 

Challenge yourself to do more and you will notice the influences of others having a more positive and uplifting position within your mind—and in your life.

 

When bad things happen in your life challenge yourself to do more—and then put a plan in place and do more—no excuses allowed!  When adverse situations occur go even harder on a daily basis in all of your endeavors!

 

Reach deeper within and you can find the ability to achieve what you desire—heal and move forward at the same time!  Narrow the focus of your concentration by focusing on what needs to be focused on—and be sure to do it in an intelligent, consistent and proactive manner whenever possible!

 

Challenge yourself—deep within to do more right now and throughout your lifetime.  By doing so you can not only score—but you will be a winner once you walk out that door!

 

What you believe either helps or hurts you!  Notice what is going on around you!  Are you mentally prepared for future success?  Do you believe that the success that you desire for yourself, your family, and society will really occur?

 

Just as TheWealthIncreaser.com started as a small thought with a high level of inspiration and is now changing the lives of consumers worldwide for the better—so too can your vision occur.  If you at this time challenge yourself to do more you can  actually do more in what you are passionate about—and uplift yourself, your family, and humanity—along the way!

 

Do you know what you need to do and you are still not doing what needs to be done?  

 

 

Will you mutter and complain around those who you are around or will you decide to do something meaningful while you are here on earth?

 

Challenge yourself to go in a new direction and get out of your comfort zone.  The adverse situation that has happened in the past, is now happening or might happen in your future—may have occurred or is now occurring to take your life in a new direction—to direct you and put fire under you—to get you moving!

 

Challenge yourself to live through adversity, change for the better, transform your mind for the better—do the right things in the right way—and approach your future as bold as a lion!

 

Carve out a new path that is uniquely yours and make the world a better place.

 

A better way is ahead and what is in your heart and what has been revealed to you to make the world a better place lies inside of you?

 

What are you capable of—do you even know?  Adversity or challenges of life can often bring it out!   Adversity leads to patience—correcting of the wrong actions can occur if you challenge yourself to do more at this time!

 

Build and protect your future by responding positively to adversity on a consistent basis.  Do something meaningful for yourself, your family and society.

 

Pursue, go after and move about with all your might—until you get it right.

 

Ask yourself the right questions—ask what is most important and relevant in your life and how you can improve on matters of importance in your life?  Answer all of the above questions appropriately and challenge yourself to reach  new heights on a daily basis from this day forward.

 

And always remember that Immobility is everywhere—however you no longer have to participate.

 

Challenge yourself to do more in your life today—it is the desire of TheWealthIncreaser.com that you live out your life in no other way!

 

Return from Challenging Yourself to About The Wealth Increaser

 

Copyright©—2014-2025—TheWealthIncreaser.com

 

Learn  why you must have the needed Financial Management Skills if you want to achieve at a high level…

 

For those who desire to improve their financial management skills, the pathway to doing so resides inside of you!  For those who have a limited view of their future as it relates to comprehensive financial planning the pathway to success can seem daunting.

 

However it no longer has to be that way!

 

Successfully managing your credit and finances has been seen as the way to move forward and share wealth with future generations.  However, even that has come under fire lately as the current economy does not allow even those who want to manage their finances effectively the opportunity to do so in a manner that serves their and their family’s best interest.

 

It is important that you have the necessary financial management skills that are needed to manage your credit and finances effectively in the times that we now live in because if you lack the necessary skills you can put yourself and your family on the wrong path toward success.

 

It is a proven fact that if you lack the financial management skills that are required in today’s economic climate—you will lack the ability to manage your finances at a level that serves you and your family in the most beneficial manner possible.

 

So what will protect you and your family now and in the future when the economy experiences a downturn. In a word or two—financial skills—that can really give you the impetus to chart your own future in a style and manner that serves your and your family’s best interest.

 

Those who achieve success on a consistent basis possess certain skills that are necessary for success in any  economy.  Consumers now need certain skills that will propel them forward toward the lifestyle that they desire.

 

Most consumers who take control of their finances find that they should have not only done it a long time ago—but they should have acquired the skills of “wise money management” at a much earlier age.

 

If you lack the necessary skills to manage your credit and finances you must realize that you are at a real disadvantage from those who choose to manage their finances wisely.

 

The major question that you must now ask and begs to be answered is—do what I want at this time supersede the effort that I am willing to expend to make the management and improvement of my finances happen at this time?

 

The solution to effectively managing your credit and finances may require hard work!  Are you willing to expend the required effort?  In addition you may have to change your approach to reach your goals and you must realize upfront that many try to shield themselves from changing into what they should be—and what they could be because they see the task ahead as being too difficult.

 

Don’t let that be you!

 

You must realize that change is required if you truly desire to improve your financial management skills and positively respond to any adversity that comes your way—as success requires that you change to a more adaptive personality—and move in the direction of where success lives!

 

In the midst of your pain—you must visualize your future gain!  You must realize that if you approach your future in the right way—success will be there to stay!

 

It is also important that you realize that what you want to do may not be the answer—real effort will be required of you if you desire to make your dreams come true!  The solution that you are looking for often resides in hard work, expended effort, your ability to accept change and your ability to readily adapt to that change when you know that it will produce the desired outcome—or the outcome that you need to achieve.

 

If critics are accurate in their portrayal of what you present—you must respond positively to that criticism and move forward.

 

Never let the opinions of others deter you from reaching your goals!

 

If you lack the skills that are necessary to manage your finances effectively it is important that you realize that no one else will really care—generally speaking.  It is up to you to come up with a plan that will see you through—and make your dreams come true.

 

Would you rather be one who manages their credit and finances by guesswork or would you want to have a certain level of certainty about your future—and how you can enjoy it?

 

Wouldn’t you rather have the skills that are necessary to manage your finances for the rest of your life—or do you prefer living in uncertainty for an uncertain period of time?

 

You must be able to get results for yourself and your family with the financial management system that you choose—and not just be there for the ride to advance others.

 

Many consumers know that they lack the necessary financial management skills yet many are reluctant to try to correct that situation due to fear, being too cautious, thinking they lack the ability, frustration, worry and other factors that they feel they can’t control.

 

Those who have been managing their finances effectively for years are often the least reluctant to share their management style.

 

As a consumer it is important to realize that effectively managing your finances can be done successfully by obtaining the skills that are needed and applying them effectively in your daily life. If you demonstrate the ability to manage your credit and finances effectively you can pass it on to your future generations and start on a real path to success that has no limit.

 

Conclusion

 

It is important that you realize that your future financial success comes down to a few basic steps:

 

• Knowing what you desire

 

• Putting a plan in place to achieve what you desire

 

• Review and adjustment to make it happen

 

 

You can’t just dream or wish for it to happen—you must put a realistic written plan in place to make it happen—in time certain!   Are you now convinced that you have the skills to make your credit and financial dreams come true? Most people are not—however you can change that now by navigating this site on a consistent basis.

 

Keep in mind that your success can occur sooner than you think if you make the choice—RIGHT NOW to gain the SKILLS that are necessary to manage your finances for the rest of your life.

 

If you are truly sincere in gaining the necessary skills to manage your credit and finances you can change your future to that of TRUE success right now.

 

Are you ready to pursue real success?

 

• Yes, I can and I will

 

• I’m not sure

 

• I have my doubts

 

Make the appropriate choice and success can be on the way and the skills that you desire and need can be in your mind to stay…

 

As someone who has been in the financial planning industry for 20 plus years I have every bit of confidence that you can transform your future and gain the necessary skills that are needed to make the rest of your life enjoyable and pleasurable regardless of your money management personality.

 

We have assisted many in the past towards financial success and you too can achieve just that—if you really WANT to achieve just that.

 

Always realize that success lives in you—if you believe it to be true!

We wish you untold success—regardless of what you choose to do!

 

We know from the past responses of consumers from all walks of life that you can improve your financial management skills from where you are now at to a very high level.

 

What separated the successful from the unsuccessful was the quality of the information that they received on a consistent basis—whether it was from family, friends, media, websites, books, blogs or any other source that provided high quality information that  took their mind and thought process to a much higher level.

 

If you make the choice right now—right where you are—you can go very far—and achieve above par!

 

Challenge yourself to do more at this time by improving your financial management skills and pursuing your future goals and objectives with the clarity and focus that you need and deserve.  Keep in mind the hardest thing that you will do is determining that you really want to improve your financial management skills and putting a sincere plan in place to do just that!

 

Isn’t it time that you anticipate a great future by setting and reaching the goals that can really make your life more enjoyable?

 

You now have the opportunity to pursue new ideas and approaches that can really move you and your family forward!

 

Isn’t it time that you have a healthy outlook about your future and live out your life in a wise—yet skillful manner?

 

It is important that you realize that without question there will be choices that you can make that will take you forward—toward your goals or move you in the opposite direction of where you need to be—skill wise!

 

The WealthIncreaser.com asks that you make the right choice and achieve what you truly desire!

 

Learn about “What is Inside The 3 Step Structured Approach” to Managing Your Credit & Finances…

 

About This Article:

 

The above article was written by Thomas (TJ) Underwood  on May 24, 2015.  Thomas (TJ) Underwood is a licensed real estate broker in the state of Georgia and is the writer behind The Wealth Increaser, Home Buyer 411,  Home Seller 411, The 3 Step Structured Approach to Managing Your Finances, Managing & Improving Your Credit & Finances for this MILLENNIUM and CREDIT & FINANCE IMPROVEMENT MADE EASY—FREE GUIDE. 

He is the creator of TheWealthIncreaser.com where he regularly blogs about helping consumers improve their credit, finance and real estate pursuits in an intelligent, consistent and proactive manner.  He’s always looking for ways to make intelligent finance improvement happen for those who “sincerely desire” success in their future.

Unlike other writers he does not shield himself from contact and if you have a question or concern—or just want to dispute any info on this site he is always accessible.  You can contact him from a number of sources but the most direct way is to contact him through Realty 1 Strategic Advisors Website.  You can also get highly relevant tips on “living your life more abundantly” and possibly earn revenue at the same time by linking to TheWealthIncreaser.com.

 

 

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Copyright®  2014-2023—TheWealthIncreaser.com—All Rights Reserved

 

 

Learn How You Can Expand Your Financial Thought Horizon & Make Your Future Goals Occur More Efficiently

 

A New and More Empowering Way of Thinking and Taking Action as it relates to accumulating wealth can be yours if you make the decision to prepare your mind for the journey.

 

You can change your life by asking the right questions and seeking the right answers!

 

Isn’t it time you dare to dream big, take bold action (never feel that you are too old or young, out of shape, mentally unequipped, lack the time, money, talent, skills or education) and change your thoughts and your future for the better!

 

Did you know that you often won’t get what you want in life but you will get what you prepare for!

 

Prepare your mind for success today by making a commitment to attain a Financially Alert Mind—this year!

 

Did you know that lack of preparation is the key to failure for those who don’t succeed in reaching their goals and ambitions?

 

It is important that you schedule your future success to happen with more certainty by visualizing your future and utilizing written goal setting.  You must plan, take action and make real change happen over time—birth in your mind  today what you desire to happen in your future and then pursue what you really desire with a high level of enthusiasm so that you can make it happen in real time!

 

A financially alert mind is proactive and addresses credit and financial concerns on the front end and will put you in better control of your financial future.

 

A financially alert mind knows how to properly utilize personal financial statements, properly manage and improve personal credit and properly address all areas of personal finance that needs to be addressed.

 

A financially alert mind does so in an effective and efficient manner and in a manner that benefits those who have a financially alert mind the most—not creditors and others who have no real concern for their or their family’s livelihood!

 

Your dreams can happen!  It is important that you never lose your fire on the inside and you must vigorously pursue what is already yours—once you have prepared your mind properly!

 

Keep in mind that reaching your goals and obtaining a financially alert mind will take discipline!  You must have a mature mindset and you must choose between what you want now—or what you want most.

 

If you choose what you want most you are showing your maturity at this time and you can sincerely start on a path to using your mind in a more financially alert manner!

 

What is stopping you from moving forward and finding the inspiration to come up with your own solutions to many of the questions that you now have about your personal finances?  Be sure to navigate this site so that you can utilize your abilities in a more financially alert manner.

 

Did you know that when your mind is ready to receive—the answer will be presented to you?  A financially alert mind will help put your mind in position to receive what serves your best interest because you will then have the preparation and knowledge of what it takes to build and maintain a solid credit and finance foundation at the various stages in your life.

 

It is important that you are conscious of what goes into your mind and heart on a daily basis.  TheWealthIncreaser.com asks that you make a sincere effort to address your personal finances in a more financially alert manner so that you can achieve what you truly desire as you journey forward.

 

RELATED TOPICS:

 

Learn why your goal should be to obtain a Financially Alert Mind and not just Financial Literacy…

 

 Learn other ways that you can obtain a Financially Alert Mind…

 

About This Article:

 

The above article was written by Thomas (TJ) Underwood  on April 28, 2015.  Thomas (TJ) Underwood is a licensed real estate broker in the state of Georgia and is the writer behind The Wealth Increaser, Home Buyer 411,  Home Seller 411, The 3 Step Structured Approach to Managing Your Finances, Managing & Improving Your Credit & Finances for this MILLENNIUM and CREDIT & FINANCE IMPROVEMENT MADE EASY—FREE GUIDE. 

He is the creator of TheWealthIncreaser.com where he regularly blogs about helping consumers improve their credit, finance and real estate pursuits in an intelligent, consistent and proactive manner.  He’s always looking for ways to make intelligent finance improvement happen for those who “sincerely desire” success in their future.

You can contact him from a number of sources but the most direct way is to contact him through Realty 1 Strategic Advisors Website.  You can also get highly relevant tips on “living your life more abundantly” and possibly earn revenue at the same time by linking to TheWealthIncreaser.com.

 

 

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Copyright®  2014-2022—TheWealthIncreaser.com—All Rights Reserved

Are you now Broke on a routine basis and are you Unable to pay your monthly Bills on time?  Is the Balance on your monthly outstanding bills more than your monthly income?  Are you suffering from job Loss or a reduction of monthly income or are you Experiencing a major financial crisis such as high medical expenses, foreclosure, car repossession, eviction notice—or anything else that is making your future difficult to confront?

 

Do you have a false sense of where you are at financially?  You may be able to correct all of that if you confront what you need to confront in the appropriate manner.  You must not let confusion and uncertainty rule your future and you must have a clear view of whether filing bankruptcy is right for you!

 

Now is the time that you burst through your FINANCIAL BUBBLE and achieve the type of success that you always dreamed of in your heart and mind!

 

How to Determine if Bankruptcy is Right For Your Situation

 

Your analysis must start with analyzing your income and your expenses.  Is your total debt higher than your total income?

Does your monthly income exceed your monthly debt—or is there a shortfall.  For example—your monthly income is $4,000 but your monthly expenses total $4,500.

 

Are you currently juggling your credit cards to pay off debt—or meet your other monthly living expenses? 

 

Do you use high interest products (payday loans, title loans, pawn shop loans, borrow from others etc.) to pay your monthly bills—or meet your living expenses?

 

Are you currently unable to pay your monthly bills on time?

 

Have you recently loss your job, had your hours or income reduced—or have you recently faced a major financial crisis due to mounting medical expenses, foreclosure—or notice of default on your home or auto loan—or any other major crisis?

 

In spite of facing the above—do you have a future windfall (additional income such as retirement, social security, insurance proceeds, legal settlement—or anything else) that you are expecting that could possibly turn your situation around?

 

If not, your credit may already be damaged—and bankruptcy should be considered as a real option—if  you do not see a way to pay your debt off in the next five years or so!

 

Keep in mind that even if you turn over the keys to your house to the lender (friendly foreclosure) they can still come after you for the deficiency (shortfall) unless you settle with the lender—and include in the foreclosure “no recourse for the deficiency” and they agree to it—keep in mind that it must be done appropriately to withhold legal scrutiny.

 

By discharging your home loan through bankruptcy—the lender would not be able to come after you for the deficiency (shortfall).

 

Always keep in mind the fact that you may not be able to discharge child support orders—student loans or income taxes that you may owe, however you may be able to renegotiate them to more favorable terms.

 

Also keep in mind that damaged credit and/or filing bankruptcy may make your job seeking efforts more difficult, therefore if you are looking for a job—or considering a job change—be sure to maintain adequate credit if you can. 

 

However, for those who are beyond that point—and find meeting their monthly expense obligations difficult at this time—be sure to consider bankruptcy as a possible solution.

 

Keep in mind however, that it may not be the only solution, nor may it be the best solution for your particular situation.

 

You must look at your situation from all angles, therefore be sure to get several opinions (nacba.com) from competent professionals—prior to actually filing bankruptcy.

 

Also keep in mind that you will have to make a “sincere effort” to learn  wise money management habits after you file bankruptcy—so that you don’t find yourself in a similar position in the future.

 

This website—and other education will put you on solid footing where you can build a foundation that is strong and will better serve your and your family’s future concerns.

 

If you have high credit card debt that you have fallen behind on paying, you have fallen behind on paying your home mortgage loan or auto loan—and those amounts exceed your monthly income—and you are having difficulty meeting your monthly living expenses—you may be one who could really benefit from bankruptcy!

 

Many have fallen into hard times by poorly managing their finances and you now have an opportunity to avoid that pitfall in your future or start on a path to improving your situation—if you make the choice to do so at this time.

 

Final Thoughts on Bankruptcy & Wealth Accumulation

 

Filing bankruptcy is not only a major decision—it is often a difficult one and one that you must approach with caution.  You must consider bankruptcy in a timely manner so that it can be used by you and your family—more effectively.

 

While considering bankruptcy you must know in your heart and mind whether  filing bankruptcy is right for you and your situation.  You must realize that the adversity or what caused you to consider filing bankruptcy is only temporary and will not cause long-term harm if you look at it from the vantage point that it is only a challenge to see if you can dig deep within and achieve much more in your life.

 

You must realize that all things happen for the good if you remain strong minded, strong willed, strong-hearted and you have the mindset and spirit that you can not only overcome—but achieve far more in your future!.

 

You cannot do like many who wait too late to file for bankruptcy—and often deplete their retirement and other accounts (retirement accounts such as 401k’s, 403b’s, IRA’s etcetera—are protected from creditors) prior to filing and put themselves in an even deeper financial hole.

 

We have seen many take what they thought to be decisive action—and the right action as it relates to their finances and in the end still end up filing bankruptcy.

 

It is important that you not make the same mistake!

 

It is imperative that you get competent professional advice upfront—and don’t be afraid to get several opinions as the decision that you make will affect you and your family for years.

 

Of course the best advice is to get the right advice from the first professional you choose—however in the current corrupt and litigious marketplace that we now live in—advice on multiple fronts is usually the best approach!

 

We are hopeful that this discussion has given you meaningful direction and you will use this discussion as a launching pad to start on a path of managing your credit and finances in a highly efficient and effective manner!

 

You must live your life daily knowing with certainty that any obstacle that comes your way (even filing bankruptcy if it is in your best interest to do so) will not affect your future plans in a negative way and will not cause you undue delay.

 

You must know deep within that the success that you desire will not only come your way—you must also know what you need to do every day.  It is the desire of TheWealthIncreaser.com that you overcome from any adversity that you will face—and take your success to the right place!

 

About This Article:

 

The above article was written by Thomas (TJ) Underwood  on March 11, 2015.  Thomas (TJ) Underwood is a licensed real estate broker in the state of Georgia and is the writer behind The Wealth Increaser, Home Buyer 411,  Home Seller 411, The 3 Step Structured Approach to Managing Your Finances, Managing & Improving Your Credit & Finances for this MILLENNIUM and CREDIT & FINANCE IMPROVEMENT MADE EASY—FREE GUIDE. 

He is the creator of TheWealthIncreaser.com where he regularly blogs about helping consumers improve their credit, finance and real estate pursuits in an intelligent, consistent and proactive manner.  He’s always looking for ways to make intelligent finance improvement happen for those who “sincerely desire” success in their future.

You can contact him from a number of sources but the most direct way is to contact him through Realty 1 Strategic Advisors Website.  You can also get highly relevant tips on “living your life more abundantly” and possibly earn revenue at the same time by linking to TheWealthIncreaser.com.

 

 

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Copyright®  2014-2015—The Wealth Increaser—All Rights Reserved

Learn Why You Must Properly Prepare for Your Car Purchase by Obtaining the Needed Knowledge on the Front End

 

On this day I felt the topic of car buying was worthy of discussing even though it is an area of wealth accumulation that I don’t usually focus on.  However, with the large number of people that I have seen buy cars in the wrong manner or a manner that is adverse to their long-term success—I felt it was now time to address this topic in a manner that could better serve those who are considering buying or leasing a car at this time.

 

 

Proven Car Buying Strategies for those in Various Financial Positions

 

Whether you decide on a new car, a used car or you decide to lease—you must choose in a wise manner!  In this discussion we will address car buying in the following areas:

 

 

Car Buying Options:

 

 

• Purchase car from a dealer

 

• Purchase car from a private seller

 

• Lease car from a dealer (ok—not technically a buying option)

 

• Occasional rental of car (again—not technically a buying option but may be helpful for your situation)

 

 

Purchasing Car from a Dealer

 

You can choose to “purchase a new or used car from a dealer” and you would want to have the right preparation and knowledge on the front end before even entering the dealership.

 

You would want to know the make and model that you were considering, the mileage if used, the yearly maintenance costs and the blue book price prior to going to the dealership.

 

You would also want to know your credit position and credit score, have your own financing in place and know all of the fees involved at that particular dealership.

 

Tag, Title and Taxes (3Ts) is fairly commonplace at most dealers, however many dealers also have additional fees so be sure you know what they are and/or be prepared to negotiate them out or take your business elsewhere.

 

Be aware of dealerships that offer to finance your vehicle as there are often language in the financing that works against (such as can’t pay loan off early without penalty, high interest rate or terms, a number of references required and many other terms and conditions) your best interests.

 

Purchasing Car from a Private Seller

 

Purchasing a car from a private seller varies depending on your Country and from state to state in the United States. In the State of Georgia private sales are now taxed at the state level.  Private sales can be a great bargain if you do your homework and you are properly positioned to purchase.

 

Again, you want to get your own financing upfront—or if paying cash be sure you know the true market value of the vehicle you are purchasing, the mileage on the vehicle you are purchasing and be sure to have the vehicle thoroughly inspected by a qualified auto technician prior to purchase.

 

In addition, be sure that you are purchasing from a responsible party who has properly taken care of the car by maintaining and driving the vehicle appropriately. You don’t want to purchase from a  “speed demon” or someone who has improperly maintained the vehicle.

 

In Georgia and many other states a bill of sale would normally consummate a sale between a private seller and a buyer—and in many states the vehicle is sold As Is with no “Implied Warranty.” Many sellers will include the AS-IS statement on the bill of sale or attached document and also state that there is no “Implied Warranty” whatsoever. The Certificate of Title would normally be signed over from the seller to the buyer.

 

Tag and Title Application would be applied for through the Department of Revenue (DOR) in many states so that you could get the new tag and new title that would provide ownership proof.  If you had a loan (lender involved purchase from a private seller) and purchased from a private seller—the lender would receive title and upon payoff of the loan you would then receive title.

 

Leasing Car from a Dealer

 

If you were uncertain as to whether leasing or buying would be more advantageous to you at this time you would want to compare whether leasing or buying was the best car option for you based on your mileage usage on an annual basis and other factors.

 

You must effectively run the numbers based on your expected annual mileage, your expected down payment and your expected monthly payment and other fees and determine if it is in your best interest to lease at this time.

 

You can normally shave several hundred dollars per month off a normal (financed) payment and based on your car usage patterns you may find that leasing is a better option for you than buying.

 

Occasional Rental of Car

 

You may determine that you have no need to purchase a vehicle and an occasional rental of a car may suit your intended goals.

 

If you live in a city where public transit is adequate you may be in position to rent occasionally for trips out of town, grocery shopping and the like and not have a need to buy or lease a vehicle.

 

Many cities now offer car rental kiosks at reasonable prices to those who qualify.

 

 

Final Thoughts on Car Buying in the Current—or Any Economy

 

 

• Be sure to search online for the review and ratings of the car model that you anticipate purchasing or leasing—consider certified pre-owned and warranties especially if buying used

 

• Be sure you are aware of road-test scores, fuel economy and whatever else you consider important to your driving habits and comfort

 

• If purchasing new or used be aware of the best and worst cars available and avoid purchasing the worst at all costs

 

• Be aware of the reliability ratings on the model that you are considering purchasing

 

• Be aware of the yearly maintenance costs on the vehicle that you are considering for purchase

 

• Be sure to pay particular concern of test results for safety, braking, real-world fuel economy and ride comfort

 

It is important that you accurately determine the market value of the vehicle that you are considering for purchase or lease.  You can use kelly blue book, edmonds.com, autotrader.com, carfax.com, truecar.com and other car sites to determine market value and get other reviews on the vehicle that you are considering for purchase or lease.

 

In addition be sure to purchase at the “right time” as car dealers and private sellers will increase the price when they know that money is readily circulating in the economy such as during the tax season, during economic stimulus times and any other time that they know that money is rapidly circulating in the economy (during boom times).

 

A better approach may be to purchase later, however by doing the research above and utilizing the knowledge that you will gain you can make the car buying experience a rewarding one for you and your family—regardless of the time of purchase.

 

 Other Car Buying Tips

 

Consider purchasing a new car every 10 years and invest the savings that you would be making for the car payment.   For example after the payment of a 60 month car loan at $500 per month in five years continue saving or investing the $500 payment in your retirement accounts or outside of your retirement accounts depending on your future goals.  By doing so that relatively painless strategy could provide you the cushion that you need so that you can live out your retirement years more abundantly.

 

If you are in a strong cash position and have addressed all areas of your finances effectively consider purchasing your vehicle with cash from a private seller or dealer.  Use your imagination and creativity to find other creative ways that you can make car purchasing or car leasing work better for your long-term interests.

 

Be sure not to over purchase on your home and auto and become house and car rich but cash poor.  You must ensure that you have money left over on a monthly basis to pay your house/rent payment and car payment and enjoy life at a comfortable level as well as save for your future.  Keeping your monthly debt at 50% or less of your income and having a six month emergency fund at a minimum in place will help mitigate against future emergencies whether car related or otherwise.

 

We have seen many purchase luxury cars and too much house and when major repairs were needed they had to borrow to repair due to an insufficient emergency fund reserve and high monthly debt.

 

Although they appeared to be living a lavish lifestyle many were living on the margins and when an unforseen  occurrence happened they found themselves in a difficult position.

 

Do your best to avoid that scenario in your life by keeping your finances in balance and making major purchases in a wise manner.

 

Regardless of the approach that you take be sure to follow the steps outlined in this discussion at a minimum—and additional steps if your car purchase situation warrants that you do so. Always keep safety and reliability in mind as you do not want to have breakdowns and other issues on the roadway.

 

It is the desire of TheWealthIncreaser.com that this discussion will help you if you are now contemplating a car purchase or you desire to prepare your mind now for a car purchase in your future.

 

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About This Article:

 

The above article was written by Thomas (TJ) Underwood  on March 10, 2015.  Thomas (TJ) Underwood is a licensed real estate broker in the state of Georgia and is the writer behind The Wealth Increaser, Home Buyer 411,  Home Seller 411, The 3 Step Structured Approach to Managing Your Finances, Managing & Improving Your Credit & Finances for this MILLENNIUM and CREDIT & FINANCE IMPROVEMENT MADE EASY—FREE GUIDE. 

He is the creator of TheWealthIncreaser.com where he regularly blogs about helping consumers improve their credit, finance and real estate pursuits in an intelligent, consistent and proactive manner.  He’s always looking for ways to make intelligent finance improvement happen for those who “sincerely desire” success in their future.

You can contact him from a number of sources but the most direct way is to contact him through Realty 1 Strategic Advisors Website.  You can also get highly relevant tips on “living your life more abundantly” and possibly earn revenue at the same time by linking to TheWealthIncreaser.com.

 

 

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Copyright®  2014-2015—The Wealth Increaser—All Rights Reserved

Guest Post by Matthew Polstein on 01/29/2015

 

 Learn About Maine Whitewater Rafting

 

In Maine, whitewater rafting is enjoyed on our 3 main rivers: The Penobscot River, The Kennebec River and The Dead River. The Penobscot River is the second longest river system in Maine and the longest entirely in the state with a total length (including East and West Branch) of over 260 miles.

 

The portion of the Penobscot River that people whitewater raft on flows from Chesuncook Lake through Ripogenus Gorge and takes rafters through 11 named rapids including Exterminator, the Staircase and Big Heater, then on to the narrow shoots and big drops of the Cribworksand also include Big Ambejackmockamus Rapids, Nesowadnehunk Falls, and Abol and Pockwockamus Falls. The rapids over the 14 mile stretch are class I-V making it the most technical rafting river in Maine.

 

The Kennebec River is located in the heart of Maine and is 170-miles long. It rises in Moosehead Lake in west-central Maine and flows to the sea from there winding across the middle of the state. The portion of the Kennebec River where whitewater rafting occurs is named The Forks. This section of the river includes 12 miles of fast, deep water that flows daily and includes the upper Kennebec gorge thrilling roller coaster waves of Big Mama and the Three Sisters, then plunge into boiling Magic Falls.

 

 

The rapids on the Kennebec are class I-IV. The Dead River, sometimes called the West Branch, is a 42.6-mile-long river in central Maine. Its source is Flagstaff Lake, where its two main tributaries, South Branch Dead River and North Branch Dead River, join. It flows generally east to join the Kennebec River at The Forks.

 

 

It is a popular river for whitewater rafting and is dam controlled from Flagstaff Lake. The water release levels range from 1200 to 7000 ft³/s and range in difficulty from easy class II to class IV+. The length of the run is 15 miles (24 km) from the put-in at Spencer Stream to the take-out at West Forks with no easy access by road. Big whitewater is released only 10 times a year on The Dead and the river comes alive when spring run-off causes flooding and also in the fall when the lakes are drawn down to get ready for winter. Who can go whitewater rafting in Maine?

 

Pretty much anyone who enjoys the outdoors and is looking for adventure can. Whitewater rafts in Maine typically hold an eight-person crew and a guide. Most rivers in Maine have a limit on the number of people who can raft on a daily basis. Outfitters typically provide helmets, lifejackets, registered guides, rafts and paddles and usually will prepare some sort of river lunch for their guests. In the post trip section outfitters provide a slideshow or video of your trip.

 

Prices vary and range from $65 to $130 per person. When does whitewater rafting happen in Maine? The season on the Penobscot and Kennebec begins in late April and ends in mid-October. Controlled daily dam releases from hydropower dams on these rivers guarantee water levels throughout the season, even during the driest summers.

 

 

The Dead River has seven high-water release days of more than 5,000 cubic feet per second (cfs) in the spring and fall.  Whitewater Guide License Requirements (1) Anyone who seeks to work as a guide is required to obtain a Maine whitewater guide license and be employed by a licensed whitewater outfitter.

 

 

These requirements are state law and are in place to protect the people of the state. If a member of the public pays dues or fees or provides any form of compensation to a person or persons for providing whitewater-rafting services or for operating a whitewater rafting organization, the trip is commercial.

 

A whitewater trip would also be a commercial trip if a licensed whitewater guide received any remuneration for accompanying, assisting or instructing passengers on the river on whitewater trips. It is unlawful to hire an unlicensed Maine whitewater guide or outfitter to supply a commercial trip or to hire a licensed Maine guide who is working independently from a licensed Maine outfitter.

 

 

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