Nobody wants to be in an auto accident. What is even worse is being in an accident where you are seriously injured through no fault of your own, and the other driver is uninsured. If you live in a no fault state, or have uninsured motorist coverage on your insurance policy, you might think you don’t have to worry about being compensated for your medical bills and lost wages. Think again. The goal of many insurance companies and the adjusters they train is to find any way possible to devalue or deny claims. They have specific strategies and tactics to accomplish this goal that everybody needs to know about.
Throwing an Epic Kids Birthday Bash on a Shoestring Budget? Try These Creative Cost-Saving Tips
Planning a Budget Birthday? Check Out These Money-Saving Ideas
Your little one’s birthday only comes once a year, so you want to make it extra special. But between venue costs, entertainment, food, supplies and more, expenses can quickly spiral out of control. With some creative planning though, you can throw an epic kids’ party that feels luxurious without draining your bank account.
In this article, we’ll explore top tips for celebrating your child’s big day in style on a budget. From picking the perfect theme to scoring décor deals, you’ll learn how every parent can pull off a pint-sized birthday bash kids will remember forever – without going broke. Let’s get this party started!
Rockin’ Theme Sets the Stage
A fun theme kicks the party off right while offering direction for decorations and activities. Brainstorm favorites like outer space, under the sea, jungle safari or tie-in children’s movie themes. Visit Pinterest for inspiration on bring any chosen motif to life inexpensively.
With basic art supplies, you can craft signs, photo backdrops, confetti cones and garlands to transform any space into a wonderland. Use paint, construction paper, tissue paper and ribbons sourced from the dollar store. That handmade touch makes for an unforgettable party compared to store-bought kits.
Cake Hack: Costco to the Rescue
No need to stress perfecting a homemade cake when Costco bakeries make gorgeous, delicious options starting at just $15.99. Their wide selection lets you match any theme from pirates to princesses. A sheet cake easily feeds 30+ guests with money left over versus ordering a specialty cake.
Costco’s cakes use quality ingredients for long-lasting freshness, so you can buy up to a week in advance. Let their in-house designers decorate masterpieces that avoid hours of frustrating decorating. Kids only care about devouring sugary goodness anyway!
Venue Hunt: Keeping it Local
Finding party space doesn’t have to break the bank either. Start by scouting your own backyard, if weather permits. To add pizzazz, adorn the yard with balloons, streamers and lawn games. For indoor fun, look into nearby community centers or school venues which offer affordably priced party packages.
Parks hosting covered picnic areas provide sheltered spots for minimal cost – just review reservation policies. Wherever you celebrate, embracing a venue that simplifies setup makes hosting smoother. Focus time on fun versus logistics!
Trim the Guest List
To control headcount and cut overall costs, limit invited guests to your child’s closest friends. For a first birthday, cap the list around 10-15 to keep things manageable yet lively. Get RSVPs early to accurately plan for food, seating and favors. Resist pressure to invite everyone by emphasizing this event is all about celebrating your birthday boy or girl.
Dazzle with Budget Décor
Dollar stores are your best friend when it comes to decorations on a dime (Or a dollar). Load up on packs of solid color plastic tablecloths, bundles of balloons, rolls of streamers, and festively patterned plastic plates, cups and utensils. All can be found for just $1-2 per pack.
Transform any space through strategic use of these dollar store finds. Mix and match balloons, streamers and plastic banners in the party’s colors. Drape plastic tablecloths over folding tables for instant style. Arrange decorative embellishments like curling ribbon, pom poms, garlands and scene setters.
Construct a photo booth backdrop by mounting bold wrapping paper or fabric from the dollar store on cardboard. Craft papier mache shapes of key theme items like rocket ships or flowers using newspaper and flour. Let your creativity shine with budget materials without going broke on store-bought kits.
Mix and Match Affordable Eats
Satisfy guests with crowd-pleasing snacks and pizza delivery versus a catered spread. Do your own food prep ahead of time to save money. Slice fruit kabobs, assemble veggie platters with ranch dip, make sandwich wraps and chilled pasta salads. Get creative decorating your own homemade cupcakes instead of splurging on a full custom cake. Hit up Costco or Sam’s Club for trays of cookies and other baked treats at bulk rate deals.
Provide juice boxes, bottled water and soda as drinks. For easy self-serve, arrange all food in a buffet style. Set up labeled food stations if hosting outdoors. Doing a potluck with parents pitching in on homemade side dishes and desserts also helps cut catering costs considerably. Get their help with setup and cleanup too!
Host High-Energy Fun
Involve kids in active games and crafts that bring the party’s theme to life. For an ocean party, play fish bowl fishing for prizes or hold a sandcastle building contest. Hand out foam aquatic animal hats for kids to decorate themselves.
Jungle safari parties could feature limbo, bean bag toss, or making animal masks or binoculars. Use brown paper bags as the mask base and attach cutout eyes, ears and snouts. Space themes offer opportunities for an astronaut training obstacle course or decorating galactic space ship hats.
No need to spend on expensive entertainment. Provide inexpensive grab bag favors like bubbles, crayons and small toys to take home. By tapping into creative theme-based activities, you’ll keep young guests engaged without breaking the bank. The birthday child will love celebrating their special day through games designed just for them.
DIY Favors on the Cheap
Instead of purchasing trinket favors, make your own utilizing supplies on hand. Fill brown bags with candy, stickers and party hats. Or help kids plant their own seed packets as a nature-inspired gift.
Printable coloring sheets and bookmarks require just paper and crayons for hours of entertainment. Handing out playdough or sidewalk chalk lets children get creative. Thoughtful party favors made yourself show guests extra appreciation.
Final Thoughts
Pulling off the perfect bash on a budget just takes a bit of resourcefulness. Dazzling décor, activities, food and favors can all be done affordably if planned out.
Follow these tips to make your child’s celebration a memorable one without overspending. The real magic comes from celebrating your little one surrounded by family and friends.
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An Honest Blue Apron Signature Family Plan Review: Is It Worth It?
Is the Blue Apron Family Plan Worth It or Should you Try an Alternative?
Blue Apron, a popular meal kit delivery service, offers a convenient solution for busy individuals and families. With Blue Apron, you receive pre-portioned ingredients and chef-designed recipes right to your doorstep. You can enjoy cooking delicious meals with ease, making dining at home both simple and enjoyable. Lets explore the meal delivery service to see if you’re better off trying one of Blue Apron’s competitors.
Blue Apron’s Signature Family Plan Review. Is It Worth It?
The 4-Serving Signature plan is ideal for satisfying a family of four and this plan is tailored to your needs. The Blue Apron curates a weekly selection of seven delectable recipes, allowing you to customize your deliveries with your choice of 2, 3, or 4 recipes per shipment.
Pro: It Is Convenient
As an introvert, I love convenience whenever I can get it. Blue Apron’s 4-serving signature plan was delivered right to my doorstep, and everything was already measured and ready for me to use. I didn’t have to worry about the food going bad as it was packed with two ice packs to keep it nice and cool. I loved that I didn’t have to go out to be able to prepare healthy, delicious meals for me and the hubby.
Pro: Relatively Easy To Cook
If you aren’t much of a cook, my Blue Apron family plan review may not be a big help for you. I love cooking, so the meals from Blueapron.com were fairly easy to make for me. However, if you can easily burn water, you may need to order Blue Apron a few times before you get the hang of things.
They do offer recipe cards, but mistakes can still happen. Overall, I think Blue Apron does a great job and showing you the process of making the meals they send you.
Pro: Options For Meat Eaters
Are you or your family meat eaters? Then you will love Blue Apron’s family plan.
Our box included recipes for Chipotle-Glazed Meatloaf with Crispy Potatoes, Moroccan Chicken with Prunes & Brown Rice, and Spicy Shrimp Coconut Curry with Green Cabbage & Rice. All three dishes had different meats, so it was hard to get bored, like you get when you eat chicken three or four days in a row.
Pro: Gourmet Food Without Going Out
Grabbing a fancy dinner sounds less appealing when you can get a virtually the same thing delivered to your door. This is something my family, especially my husband, enjoyed. Not only did it get us all into the kitchen, but we were able to create what we felt were beautiful masterpieces. So if you are looking to have a special dinner with your family, the Blue Apron family plan could be a good choice.
Pro: Customer Service and Contact Information
My personal Blue Apron family plan review wouldn’t be complete if I didn’t add this pro. The customer service at Blue Apron is amazing! Our order was late when FedEx couldn’t find our home. Instead of saying “Not our problem” after we contacted customer service, Blue Apron apologized and guaranteed our food and satisfaction or they would make it up to us!
I didn’t even really mind if the order was a little late, but it was nice to know that Blue Apron cared enough to reach out to me and take responsibility for something that wasn’t their fault. It was easy to contact Blue Apron as the phone number, email address, as well as a robust FAQ section is easily located on their website.
Cons and Disadvantages of Blue Apron’s 4 Serving Signature Plan
Con: Too Much Packaging
This may not be a con for some, but I didn’t like how much packaging came with all of the food. Although I understand that Blue Apron has to keep items like eggs safe, it was a disappointment to see so much plastic. I tend to buy almost all of my grocery items using reusable bags and jars, so of course my opinion may differ from yours.
Con: Food Can Be Bland
My family loves spice. We love our food well seasoned, so we choose our meals based on what sounded spicy or super flavorful. To our surprise, two of our three dishes were bland. Even I had to add quite a bit of salt to up the flavor of my dishes, which I normally don’t salt my food at all. For food that looked so tasty, I definitely expected more flavor. However, I do understand that Blue Apron had to find a happy medium with their level of seasoning.
Con: Portions Are Too Small
As with the other pros and cons for my Blue Apron family plan review, your opinion may differ from mine. For my family, I thought the portions were incredibly small for what Blue Apron was charging per meal , “as low as 7.99 per person.” When I first started unboxing our items, I thought the portions wouldn’t be enough, and I was right. My husband was usually hungry after each meal. Even I found myself grazing on food from the fridge after having dinner.
Con: Expensive
This brings me to my next and most important con for my Blue Apron family plan review. If your family normally spends an exorbitant amount on groceries every week, Blue Apron’s meal kits may save you money, but for us, it would cost more in the long run. For a family of four, two meals per cost us $90.91. Even in today’s economy, $90 could get you a lot of groceries. Because I love saving money, and don’t want to spend a small fortune on food, this is one of the biggest cons that I had about Blue Apron’s meal kit service.
Overall, I don’t think I would use Blue Apron again, but I do think they have quite a few perks that may appeal to others. If you want to invite me over for dinner though, I won’t object! It can never hurt yo give them a try at a promotional price or using a coupon code. Those tend to be more reasonable.
Pricing Tiers
As you purchase more servings of a recipe from Blue Apron, the price per serving tends to go down; the typical “buy more-save more” scenario. The frequency of deliveries also affects the final price. In general, the price per dish goes down as you add more meals to your order. As indicated in the screenshot below, five 4-serving meals for 5 days will cost $170.79.
Blue Apron Military and Public Service Discount
Blue Apron takes pride in extending its support to various community members, including military personnel, healthcare professionals, , seniors aged 55 and over, students, teachers, first responders, alumni, and government workers. To claim your exclusive discount for new customers, you simply complete the verification process using ID.me. Right now as a token of their appreciation, Blue Apron is offering $110 off and free shipping on your first order if you fall into on the mentioned categories and verify your information through ID.me before placing your order.
Blue Apron Gift Cards and Coupons
To entice new customers, Blue Apron occasionally runs exclusive sales, discounts, and welcome offers. These can include complimentary add-ons or discounted prices for the first few weeks. If you’re interested in trying out the service, it’s a good idea to keep an eye out for such promotions.
Blue Apron provides Meal Gift Cards in increments of $70, $140, and $280. The recipients have the flexibility to apply a Meal E-Gift Card to any subscription meal plan or purchase from the Market section of the website or app.
In additional to the general gift cards offered, there is an option to purchase wine gift cards which can be applied to their wine subscription service. Wine gift cards also come in increments of $70, $140, and $280.
Blue Apron Gift Cards have no expiration date, no associated fees, but they are non-refundable.
How to Cancel Blue Apron?
If you wish to temporarily suspend or terminate your account, please visit your Account Settings and navigate to the Plan Settings page. Locate ‘Meals’ or ‘Wine,’ click ‘Edit,’ and then select ‘Pause/Cancel Subscription.’
You can choose to pause deliveries for 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or cancel your subscription. Make your selection and click ‘Next.’
Once you’ve confirmed by clicking ‘Pause My Subscription,’ upcoming deliveries will display a moon symbol indicating the pause. Deliveries will automatically resume when the pause period ends.
If you decide to cancel, a brief survey will pop up to gather feedback on your Blue Apron experience.
How to Pause Blue Apron Deliveries?
If for any reason you would like to skip deliveries, there is the flexibility to skip orders up to five weeks ahead. To skip a delivery, simply log in to your account, visit the “Upcoming” page, find the order you want to skip, and click the ‘Manage Delivery’ button next to the delivery date. Then, choose ‘Skip This Delivery.” This is a great option for users who would like to take a break from the meal kit delivery service or may be going out of town for a while.
Is Blue Apron Worth the Cost?
Quality and Variety
The standard of the ingredients and the range of recipes given are two of the most important factors to take into account when assessing Blue Apron’s value. A wide menu that takes into account a variety of dietary preferences and constraints is something Blue Apron takes great pleasure in. Subscribers like being exposed to new flavors and ingredients that they might not have otherwise explored. Each meal delivery kit service has their very own unique menu and you may prefer the choices offer by a Blue Apron competitor so this goes down to personal preference.
Convenience and Time-Saving
Convenience is a major selling point for Blue Apron. The service does not require meal planning, ingredient shopping, or portion control. Even people with little to no experience in the kitchen can easily follow a recipe’s clear instructions. The time saved on meal preparation and grocery shopping can be extremely valuable for busy people or families.
Cost Comparison to Dining Out
It’s critical to compare the price of Blue Apron to takeout or dining out when determining its value. Even though Blue Apron’s cost per dish may be more than making food from scratch, it is frequently less expensive than going to a restaurant of a comparable standard. Additionally, cooking a dinner of restaurant caliber at home may be a very rewarding experience.
Reducing Food Waste
The pre-portioned ingredients from Blue Apron help prevent food waste because you only get what you need for each meal. In the long term, as there won’t be any wasted ingredients, this can be both economical and environmentally friendly.
Flexibility and Skipping Weeks
Blue Apron users have the freedom to skip weeks or halt their subscriptions, which is useful for vacations or other times when meal packages aren’t needed. This function makes sure you only pay for the weeks you intend to utilize the service.
Reviews and Customer Feedback
Customer testimonials and comments are crucial determinants of the value and satisfaction that Blue Apron provides. The Blue Apron App currently has an impressive 4.7/5 from over 39,000 reviews on the Apple App store. Although opinions can differ, clearly by a large margin, users like the comfort, culinary experimentation, and overall experience that Blue Apron offers. The following are some recurring topics that show up their reviews:
1. Convenience
One of the most notable benefits cited by Blue Apron customers is convenience. It saves them a ton of time since all the ingredients are delivered directly to their door. Reviewers frequently express their relief at not having to go grocery shopping as is customary. People with busy schedules are especially drawn to this convenience element because it spares them the stress of navigating crowded aisles and protracted checkout lines.
2. Cooking Skills Improvement
Many Blue Apron customers claim that the service has improved their cooking abilities. The pre-measured ingredients and thorough recipe cards offer a wonderful learning opportunity by exposing consumers to fresh ingredients and cooking methods that they might not have otherwise discovered. Blue Apron provides a simple platform for folks who aren’t comfortable in the kitchen to broaden their culinary experiences.
3. Family-Friendly Options
Particularly, families benefit from the Blue Apron service. The 4-serving plan’s accessibility makes it possible to create meals that can feed a large group of people, which can save a ton of time for households with hectic schedules. Families benefit greatly from the ability to prepare restaurant-quality meals at home while taking into account various tastes and preferences.
4. Variety of Recipes
One of Blue Apron’s strengths is frequently cited as its regularly changing menu of dishes from many cuisines and culinary traditions. Users value the chance to experiment with a variety of flavors without having to comb through cookbooks or look for specialized ingredients. In addition to making meals more interesting, this variety also inspires customers to try new ingredients and culinary techniques.
5. Portion Control and Reduced Waste
Reviewers generally support the idea of pre-portioned ingredients. By doing away with the need to measure ingredients, this function not only makes cooking simpler but also helps with portion management. As they only receive the precise amounts required for each dish, users frequently enjoy a decrease in food waste. This improves cooking efficiency and cost-effectiveness while also being ecologically friendly.
Final Considerations
It’s important to consider a number of variables as you decide whether to sign up for Blue Apron to make sure the service fits with your preferences, way of life, and culinary objectives. Here are some important things to think about:
1. Budget
Consider whether Blue Apron’s cost is in line with your budget before enrolling. Think about whether the price per dish fits your budgetary needs and eating preferences. While the ease and high quality of the components are enticing, it’s important to make sure that the cost is reasonable for your particular situation.
2. Culinary Exploration
If you’re a daring eater who enjoys experimenting with different dishes and ingredients, Blue Apron may give you a fascinating chance to broaden your gastronomic horizons. You may experience flavors and cooking methods that you might not have otherwise encountered, thanks to the menu’s variety.
3. Time Savings
Consider how much time and effort a Blue Apron subscription would save you. The preparation of ingredients, supermarket shopping, and meal planning can take a lot of time. With Blue Apron, you can take back that time and put it to use on things that are important to you.
4. Cooking Enthusiasm
Think about how you feel about cooking. Blue Apron may improve your culinary experience if you consider cooking to be a creative and fun hobby by giving you tailored recipes and premium products. The simplicity of pre-measured materials, though, can make the procedure more enjoyable if you don’t enjoy cooking or view it as a work. Think about how much time and effort you would save by signing up for Blue Apron. It can take a lot of time to prepare the components, go grocery shopping, and plan meals. You can reclaim that time with Blue Apron and use it for the things that matter to you.
5. Flexibility
Check to see if Blue Apron’s menus and flexibility suit your eating preferences and way of life. Some plans allow you to select alternatives that meet your needs while accommodating varying household sizes and food preferences. Additionally, within the constraints of the offered recipes, Blue Apron’s personalization options can assist you in adjusting the service to your preferences.
6. Dietary Preferences and Restrictions
Examine the various meal options before enrolling to make sure they adhere to your dietary preferences and any possible restrictions. Blue Apron does include vegetarian and wellness-focused menus, but it’s crucial to be sure the service can meet your individual requirements.
7. Commitment and Usage Frequency
Keep in mind how frequently you intend to use Blue Apron’s services. While some users choose recurring subscriptions, others occasionally utilize it as an addition to their meal planning. In light of your particular situation, decide whether the frequency of use justifies the expense and convenience.
8. Cancelation Policy
Learn about Blue Apron’s cancellation procedures. This information can provide you comfort if you choose to pause or cancel your subscription.
Conclusion
Your personal preferences, way of life, and financial circumstances will all play a role in whether or not you decide to subscribe to Blue Apron. Even while it might not take the place of every meal you prepare or eat out, Blue Apron might add something special and useful to your culinary exploration. Understanding the costs, advantages, and restrictions can help you make the decision that suits your preferences and needs, just as with any investment.
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- Cash App Glitch 2023: Is the Free Money Glitch Real?
- What is the the Biweekly 26 Week Money Challenge?
- Why You Need A Personal Mid-Year Budget Review and 5 Things to Do Now
- 5 Motivational Hacks to Pay Off Debt
- How Often Should You Review Your Budget?
Self Lender Reviews: Building Credit With a Loan from Self Inc
Self-lending via credit builder loans has typically been programs managed by small community banks and credit unions. Self Lender or Self Inc as it is known today, is the first company to launch a nationwide, online Credit Builder Account, and has cemented itself into the credit-building loan market providing services to the masses via several digital financial services. Is Self the right option for your credit building journey?
About Self Inc.
Self Inc. is an innovative financial institution that can help build your credit and save money at the same time. With over 1 million users, Self Inc understands the struggles that many individuals face when trying to improve their creditworthiness. That is why they have created a unique platform that allows users to take control of their financial future by better positioning themselves when applying for credit.
By offering credit builder loans, Self Lender helps establish a positive payment history, while also locking away money for your future goals. With their easy-to-use Self App and personalized support, Self Lender takes the guesswork out of credit building, making it accessible and achievable for everyone without spending hundred or thousands on credit repair services that lack transparency.
Self Lender vs Traditional Credit-Building Methods
When it comes to building credit, there are various methods available. However, Self Lender offers a unique and effective approach that sets it apart from traditional methods. Unlike secured credit cards or credit builder loans offered by banks, Self Lender’s credit builder loans don’t require an upfront deposit or a hard credit check. This makes it accessible to individuals who may not have the means or credit history to qualify for traditional credit-building options. Additionally, Self Lender’s loans are specifically designed to build credit, whereas traditional loans may come with other requirements or restrictions. With Self , you have a dedicated partner on your credit-building journey, guiding you every step of the way.
If you meet the credit requirements, have the discipline, and looking for a credit card to build credit payment history and enjoy some additional card perks, I highly recommend the Chase Freedom Unlimited. You earn a $200 bonus after spending $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from opening your account. Other highlights are a 3% cashback on dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services, drugstore purchases, and 1.5% cashback on all other purchases.
Self Credit Builder Account
We’re more familiar with credit building credit cards known as secured credit cards, but credit building loans have also been available through traditional banks such as LeadBank and financial institutions for years. They’re often called “CD-secured loans” or “savings-secured loans,” since they’re secured by a Certificate of Deposit (CD) or some other form of savings account.
By opening a Credit Building Account with Self Inc, you are commit to putting a certain amount of money into an account each month. Think of it as a CD account where your payments are reported to the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion) in order to establish or build credit. Why is this key to your credit building strategy? Well, credit payment history makes up 35% of your credit score.
Key Elements
✅ Free to join Self Inc. One time $9 non-refundable fee to open a Credit Builder Account.
✅ Self’s bank partners (LeadBank, Sunrise Bank) lends you a small loan in the form of a FDIC-insured CD which is held until it is paid in full.
✅ You start repaying your Credit Builder Account the following month by making equal payments over the term of the loan.
✅ Your payment history is reported to the three major credit bureaus, Experian, Equifax and TransUnion each month.
✅ When you pay off your loan, you will receive the funds you put in over the 24 month period minus the interest and fees.
✅ Account is available online or via Self App in all 50 states.
Self Inc Credit Builder Plans
Self Inc offers 4 different credit builder plans to fit your budget and credit goals. Similarities among the 4 plans are the flat $9 administrative fee and 24-month term.
Your final cost and interest rate will vary based on the specific plan you choose.
How Will Self Credit Builder Show up on Your Credit Report?
A Credit Builder Account will show up as a “secured-installment loan” from one of Self Inc.’s bank partners such as Sunrise Bank.
Self Inc Banking Partners: Is Your Money Safe?
Self Financial partners with several banking institutions to provide a variety of credit building services. Credit Builder Accounts held in a Certificate of Deposit (CD) at one of these institutions below are FDIC insured.
Sunrise Bank – Credit Builder Accounts
First Century Bank – Self Visa® Credit Card and certain Credit Builder Accounts
Lead Bank – Secured credit card and certain Credit Builder Accounts
Atlantic Capital Bank – Self Visa® Credit Card and certain Credit Builder Accounts
Closing Your Self Credit Builder Account Early
If you must complete an early withdrawal and close your account, you can cancel your account at any time as long as your account in good standing. Before making a withdrawal request, login to your account and ensure your address and bank account information is up to date. This will prevent any delays in processing your request as it may take up the 3 weeks.
Self Lender Reviews: Is Self Inc the Answer to Your Credit Challenges?
Self Inc is fairly transparent with its customer reviews. As of August 2023, the Self App has 4.6 stars, 7000+ reviews and over 1 million downloads on the Google Play Store. On the Apple App Store, Self App also boast an impressive 4.9 stars from over 240,000 reviews. Review portal Shopper Approved has Self Inc at 4.7 stars with over 2500 5-star reviews.
Some users have seen a big improvement in their credit scores; some show more modest gains. It is also not exactly clear when credit improvements kick in as many factors beyond Self’s control are at play here. In some cases, the benefits are immediate. In other cases, it takes could take 6-9 months to see improvements. While credit results may vary, Self Inc is a legit BBB-accredited financial technology organization that provide positive results to most of its customers. On average you can expect a credit score increase of 49 points.
One other important factor to consider is frankly, your personality. Some individuals perform better with an enforced method to improve their credit. However, if you prefer a more independent and flexible approach to your personal finances, their credit builder loans might not be the optimal option for you. Try this biweekly 26-week savings challenge instead. If you’re looking for extra income to keep up with your payments, there are a large number of side hustle opportunities out there. For examples, you can get paid to write articles and blog posts or even testing apps and writing reviews.
Late Fees and Penalties
Self Inc is not an accountability-free method of possibly increasing your credit score. You are still required to make your payments on time, and failing to do so can leave you in a state that is worse than when you started to use the service.
✅ A Late equivalent to 5% of your monthly payment amount is charged 15 days after payment due date.
✅ A late fee of 5% of your monthly payment amount if your payment is at least 15 days past due.
✅ Failed payment made via bank account will be charged a $15 return fee.
✅ Expedited payment charge is you make payments with debit card (charge will vary based on your Credit Builder Plan).
✅ A small fee less than $1 for closing your Credit Builder Account early.
Self Visa Credit Card
The Self Visa Credit Card is another financial offering by Self that is aimed at assisting individuals in building or repairing their credit. This secured credit card requires a refundable security deposit as collateral while allowing users to establish credit history responsibly. With a Self Visa Credit Card, cardholders gain access to the extensive network of Visa benefits, enabling secure online transactions with everyday purchases. By making timely payments and maintaining good credit behavior, users can gradually improve their credit scores It serves as a valuable tool for those seeking to build credit or recover from past credit challenges.
Once you are eligible for the Self credit card, you will receive a notification inviting you to sign up for the card when you login to your account. However, eligibility does not guarantee approval. To be eligible for the secured credit card through Self, you must meet the following requirements:
✅ Have an active Credit Builder Account for at least 3 months and have made at least 3 monthly payments on time
✅ Have reached at least $100 savings progress in your Credit Builder Account (after interest and fees)
✅ Have your Credit Builder Account in good standing
✅ A permanent US residency or citizenship with a Social Security Number
✅ Login and add your income and expenses to your account
Self Lender Phone Number and Customer Service Contact
Self Lender offers personalized support through their Self App, website, and customer service channels. If you have question or concerns about any of their credit building services, Self Inc.’s customer support can be reached at 1 877- 883-0999 Monday-Friday from 7am-6pm CT
If you’re looking to build slow and steady wealth, also check out Raisin for single sign on access to FDIC insured institutions offering high-yield interest rates above 5%. I like Raisin.com for its easy to use interface and access to multiple institutions to diversify your funds without creating multiple accounts across different banks. Click here and enter my referral code earlm014354 to earn up to $125 in bonus cash when you sign up and meet the deposit requirements.
Conclusion
Building your credit requires patience, discipline, and the right tools. There is no question as to whether or not Self Inc is legit. With Self, you have a trusted partner that can help you build credit and save money at the same time. Their credit builder loans are designed to establish a positive payment history, improve your credit score, and provide you with savings for your future goals. Whether you’re starting from scratch or rebuilding your credit, Self Lender’s user-friendly app and personalized support make the process accessible and achievable for everyone.
Ready to start building your credit? Apply at Self Lender today!
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6 Awesome Money Habits to Teach Your Kids
Saving money might seem difficult for children, but it can actually be easy given you follow a couple of tips. Below are some of the best ways to help your children form awesome money habits. Using these tips can help set your children up for success in the future.
1. Instill the Habit of Saving at a Young Age
The earlier you start teaching your children about money, the better. It’s never too early to start a conversation about finances with your kids. You can begin by simply explaining what money is and how it’s used. As they get older, you can start to instill the habit of saving.
One way to do this is to set up a piggy bank or savings account that they can contribute to. Every time they receive money, whether it’s from an allowance or gifts, encourage them to put some of it into their savings. Help them to set goals for what they want to save up for and praise them when they reach their targets.
2. Encourage Them to Spend Wisely
Teach your children the difference between needs and wants. Needs are things that we must have in order to survive, like food and shelter. Wants are things that we would like to have but don’t necessarily need.
Help them to understand that we can’t always have everything we want and that it’s important to spend money wisely. One way to do this is to give them a set amount of “fun money” to spend each week. Once it’s gone, they can’t spend any more until the following week. This will help them to budget and understand the difference between spending money and saving money.
3. Teach Them About Giving
Giving is an important money habit to teach your children. Not only is it good for others but it can also benefit your children in the long run.
When your children receive money, encourage them to set aside a portion to give to charity. Many websites can help your child give donations online. Giving donations will help them to develop a habit of giving and also show them the importance of helping others.
4. Help Them Understand Debt
Debt is something that many adults struggle with, so it’s important to teach your children about it from a young age. One way to do this is to explain the difference between good debt and bad debt. Good debt is something that we take on in order to improve our lives, like taking out a loan for a house or an education. Bad debt is something that we spend money on that doesn’t increase our net worth, like credit card debt.
5. Create Ways to Earn Money
You can create a chore chart with different earnings attached. You can design your own with your kids or you can find a downloadable chore chart online. With 1.8 billion websites operating at the same time every day, you can find downloadables on sites like Etsy, Pinterest, and more.
Another way to earn money is through an allowance. You can give your kids a set amount of money each week for completing their chores. This is a great way to teach them about budgeting and saving.
6. Teach Your Child How to Budget
One way to help your child budget is by giving them a set amount of money each week for spending. This could be their allowance or money they’ve earned from completing chores. Once the money is gone, they can’t spend any more until the following week. This will help them understand the importance of budgeting and not spending all of their money at once.
Teaching your children about money is one of the most important things you can do. By instilling good money habits, you’ll set them up for success in their future, save them from financial stress, and help them to make smart decisions with their money.
The Art of Co-Living: Exploring the Advantages of Sharing a House
What is House Sharing?
For people who want to strike a balance between a sense of community and financial stability, sharing a home has emerged as an advantageous and sociable choice. The idea of house sharing also referred to as professional house shares, has become extremely popular as people look for methods to divide costs, take advantage of the company, and create comfortable living spaces. The complexities of house-sharing are examined in this article, along with its advantages, the growth of house-sharing websites, and the forces at play when cohabitation becomes a significant relationship.
House sharing refers to a living arrangement where individuals or families share a single house, splitting the rent and expenses. House sharing offers cost savings, companionship, and shared responsibilities. It is a popular option for students, young professionals, and older adults looking for affordable and sociable living arrangements.
The Rise of House Sharing
The housing market has taken an unexpected and disheartening turn for prospective homebuyers and current homeowners alike. Mortgage rates, which have been on an uptrend for the past year , are now delivering a harsh blow to anyone seeking to purchase or refinance their home in the current market where 7% APR is the average.
Finding inexpensive housing can frequently be difficult because of the high cost of living, particularly in urban regions. In response, many people have turned to house sharing as a practical way to control costs. Rent, utilities, and other expenses are divided among a number of housemates in order to greatly lessen the financial load on each person. House sharing is especially tempting to young professionals, students, and those seeking to save money without sacrificing comfort because of this financial advantage.
Benefits of House-Sharing
Sharing a home is a lifestyle decision that offers numerous benefits that go far beyond simple cohabitation; it’s not just about dividing the expenditures. Let’s explore these advantages in greater detail and see how house-sharing changes what it means to live in a single household:
1. Cost Sharing
A significant financial benefit of house sharing is expense sharing. Housemates share the cost of living, including rent, utilities, and maintenance. In the current economic climate, where growing living costs can stretch even the most carefully constructed budgets, this financial respite is especially helpful. Housemates who share financial duties are not only better able to manage their money but also have more money available for other activities like personal development, travel, or investments.
2. Social Connections
More than just a utilitarian arrangement, house sharing serves as a springboard for developing deep interpersonal relationships. People get exposed to a wide range of personalities, histories, and viewpoints when they live with housemates. These encounters encourage the formation of solid ties over time, which may result in true friendships. A sense of community that goes beyond the practical requirements of cohabitation is created by shared experiences, late-night chats, and the camaraderie of daily life. Housemates frequently transform into a chosen family, supporting and encouraging one another through life’s ups and downs, from preparing meals together to celebrating milestones.
3. Shared Responsibilities
In a shared home, the task wheel has a whole new meaning. Sharing duties, such as cleaning, grocery shopping, and home maintenance, promotes a cooperative living situation. By splitting up the labor, each housemate feels more responsible and accountable while simultaneously having a lighter workload. This teamwork-based approach to household management promotes good communication, compromise, and a greater respect for the contributions made by all parties. In response, this culture of cooperation raises the standard of living generally and fosters a peaceful environment.
4. Comfort and Space
House sharing often makes it possible to afford a more luxurious and roomy living situation. Many people discover they may rent larger homes that are out of their price range. Greater personal comfort and flexibility are made possible by the additional space, which improves quality of life. Ample living space, a peaceful study corner, or a backyard garden are just a few examples of how having more space improves well-being and leaves room for leisure and personal hobbies.
5. Shared Experiences and Lifelong Memories
Shared housing memories frequently play a significant role in one’s life story. Housemates will remember these shared events, which range from movie nights to themed parties to unplanned get-togethers, for years to come. These memories hold a special place in the heart and add to the tapestry of life by fostering a sense of nostalgia. That empty spare room could be space that built a lifelong connection.
The Digital Landscape of Professional House-Sharing Platforms
The prevalence of internet platforms designed to match possible housemates and facilitate easy transitions into shared housing has increased along with the popularity of house sharing. House sharing websites have become virtual gathering places where people may connect with others looking for similar living situations. These websites include a variety of services that make it easier to find and book compatible roommates and lodging.
1. SpareRoom: Navigating the House Sharing Universe
In terms of housing-sharing websites, SpareRoom is a shining example. It acts as a virtual hub where people can submit ads for available rooms or search for accommodations that suit their needs, thanks to its user-friendly layout and extensive features. It is simple to filter results depending on location, budget, and desired amenities, thanks to the platform’s user-friendly design.
The emphasis on establishing thorough profiles for both potential housemates and available rooms is one of SpareRoom’s distinctive features. Through this method, people can learn more about one other’s interests, expectations, and way of life, which promotes openness and compatibility. Users can find the appropriate house-sharing arrangement on SpareRoom using its comprehensive search parameters, whether they are looking for a professional house share, a student flat, or a cozy home with other like-minded people.
2. Craigslist: A Diverse Marketplace for House Sharing
The popular classifieds website Craigslist has established a specialized market for house sharing. The platform’s housing segment offers a range of house-sharing alternatives despite covering many different categories.
People can advertise and search for postings for available rooms, establishing direct contact with potential roommates. While dedicated house-sharing services may have a more complex style and organization, Craigslist is still a good alternative for anyone looking for shared housing.
3. Roomster: A Global Approach to House Sharing
Roomster caters to both local and international house-sharing needs, taking house-sharing to a new level. The platform sets itself apart from other house sharing sites by providing thorough profiles with background checks and compatibility scores. These tools improve the safety and standard of house sharing while giving potential housemates’ lifestyles and preferences greater transparency.
The philosophy behind Roomster’s house sharing goes beyond simple postings; it aspires to provide an environment where people may find not just housemates but also friends and other social connections. This more comprehensive viewpoint is consistent with the notion that house sharing is not just about sharing expenditures but also about building a sense of community and companionship.
The Art of Connection and Compatibility
The potential of these digital platforms to link people with similar ideals, lifestyles, and preferences is what makes them unique. Compatibility becomes important as house sharing moves beyond simple cohabitation. People are empowered to make knowledgeable selections regarding potential roommates and accommodations because of the comprehensive profiles and sophisticated search filters supplied by these platforms. These portals enable customized searches that meet specific demands, whether someone is seeking a professional house share, a peaceful study space, or a buzzing social scene.
Navigating the Digital Landscape: Tips for Success
Although house-sharing websites make it easier to find compatible housemates, it’s still vital to take your time and be thoughtful as you travel. Following are some pointers for navigating the online world of house-sharing platforms:
Create Comprehensive Profiles
Be truthful and detailed when describing your lifestyle, routines, and preferences while building a profile. This openness will draw roommates with similar values.
Utilize Filters
Utilize search filters to narrow down choices based on region, price range, and particular needs. Unless you’re in a desperate situation, be as strict as you can with our requirements.
Engage in Conversations
Once you’ve located suitable roommates or lodging, strike up a chat to learn more about each another. This process is essential for determining compatibility and building rapport. Find out as much as you can about their background and reasoning behind taking the house sharing route.
Set Expectations
Potential roommates should be made aware of your expectations and boundaries. This will assist in avoiding misunderstandings and provide a peaceful living situation.
Conclusion
Sharing a home has become a realistic and affordable solution in a world where housing costs can be prohibitive. Finding matching housemates and accommodations is now more straightforward than ever, thanks to the growth of house-sharing services. What starts out as a financial choice typically turns into a journey of making friends, sharing experiences, and establishing a sense of belonging. The art of house sharing continues to alter lives, homes, and how we view the idea of cohabiting as people try to achieve a balance between financial security and a sense of community.
READ MORE:
How to prevent teenagers from allowing social media to impact their spending
Social media is impacting the lives of teenagers more than ever before. For better or worse, these digital platforms are giving young people access to more information, which can ultimately impact them in the real world.
3 Money Horror Stories That Will Keep You Up At Night
As you know, we have been on our own debt-free journey for some time now. My husband and I have come a long way, but before we got together (and even for a while afterwards), we’ve made some pretty awful money mistakes. Here are three stories from my past that still keep me up at night.
That Time I Cosigned For A Car
Let’s go back nearly a decade to 2013. At the time, I was living with my boyfriend. We’d been together several years and we combined some of our finances to pay the rent as well as other bills. However, we maintained separate bank accounts and still supported ourselves, for the most part.
That was, until his older car broke down and he needed a new one. His car being out of service hindered me quite a bit – I worked full time and commuted to college, so sharing my car was difficult. So, he went to see about buying something new and I went along with him.
Of course, his credit wasn’t approved for the car and he asked if I’d consider cosigning. Without thinking, I did it. Two years later, after he failed to make payments, the car was repossessed and it remained on my credit for several years. It made it hard for me to get a car on my own and even made it difficult to get approved for housing.
Never again! It still haunts me.
Paying For My Books On Credit
Another past financial decision that I’m occasionally reminded of is applying for an Amazon Credit Card in college. It was a horrible idea. I bought all of my school books on credit through Amazon, but not only that. I was buying anything and everything I could with that credit card. I maxed it out and neglected to pay it on time.
Eventually, my mom helped me pay it off, even though the account was closed. I think about how much debt I was happy to rack up at that time and it’s insane.
Ignoring Bills Until They Go To Collections
At one time, I used to ignore bills that I couldn’t afford and just let them go to collections. It got so bad that, at one time, I had more than $5,000 hanging out in collections. Crazy, right?
Now, I’ve changed a lot of my own personal finance habits to make sure none of these things happen ever again, but…
They still do keep me up at night sometimes.
What are some of your financial horror stories? Share them in the comments below!
Read More
What Happens to My Credit Score When I Pay Off All My Debt?
What happens to my credit score when I pay off all my debt?
This question came up in the Our Debt Freedom Family Facebook group recently, and I know a lot of people have the same question when getting out of debt.
So in this article we’re going to be answering the following question:
“How does being debt free affect your credit? We’ll be paying off our debt soon. When we do, we’ll keep our credit cards open, but what will my credit score look like when all the other loans are closed?”
A similar question was asked last year about how your score is affected when you close out one of your old credit cards. I wrote an article in response, and in that article, I went into great detail about how your credit score is calculated and how closing out the card affects your score.
To summarize, the most commonly used credit score is calculated using software created by the Fair Isaac Corporation, also known as FICO. Your FICO® score is determined and weighted by the following five factors:
- Payment history — approximately 35%
- Amounts owed — approximately 30%
- Length of credit history — approximately 15%
- New credit — approximately 10%
- Types of credit in use — approximately 10%
However, if you leave your cards open and use them once in awhile and keep them paid off, your credit score is likely to be very high.
In fact, I recently interviewed Christine Odle who paid off $500,000 worth of debt (house and everything) since 2009. She said that she has one credit card that she pays off several times each month, and her score is over 800.
My husband and I also have one credit card that we use and pay off each month (in addition to our mortgage) and our credit scores are over 800, as well. We’ve definitely seen our credit scores increase as our debt total has decreased over the past few years.
My question to anyone else concerned about their credit score is this —
Once you’ve paid everything off, do you plan to use credit again in the future? If not, then it probably won’t have much affect on your life. But if you do, it might be worth using a credit card and paying it off every month to keep that good payment history on your record.
Don’t Pay To Check Your Credit!!!
You used to need to pay to check your credit score. Don’t do that!! Instead, get your credit score for free. Here are four completely free ways to check your credit score.
Annual Credit Report. Federal law says the three credit reporting bureaus must provide customers with a free credit report once per year. Just go to www.annualcreditreport.com and sign up.
Chase’s Credit Journey. Chase will not only provide you access to your credit score, but also gives you a set of great tools to improve your credit score. It is 100% free to sign up.
Lexis Nexis. Another way to get a free credit report is to get your Lexis Nexis file. The report will have personal information gathered from public records and third party sources. You can get a copy of what information about you they have on file by sending in an application with your ID.
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Keep moving forward toward your goals. You really can live the life you dream about!
How a Side Hustle Helped Melanie Lockert Break Up With Debt
Have you considered adding a side hustle to help you break up with debt?
Well, in today’s video, we’ll learn how Melanie Lockert used a side hustle to break up with debt.
If you don’t know Melanie, she’s the personality behind the award-winning blog, DearDebt.com, where she chronicled her journey out of $81,000 in student loan debt. Through her blog, she inspires readers to break up with debt by writing their very own breakup letter to debt.
In 2015, Melanie (and her journey out of debt) was named one of the top five most inspiring personal finance stories of the year by Yahoo! Finance. She currently works as a freelance writer and event planner. Melanie and her work have appeared in Business Insider, The Huffington Post, Yahoo! Finance, INC, and more.
After graduating from college with $23,000 in student loans, Melanie had the opportunity to attend her dream school, NYU, to earn her master’s degree. There, she incurred $58,000 more in student loans for a total of $81,000.
Upon struggling to find a stable, decent-paying job after graduating from NYU, Melanie made some extreme changes in her life to pay off her student loans. In December 2015, Melanie made her last payment and became 100% debt-free.
She is also the author of a brand-new book, “Dear Debt: A Story About Breaking Up with Debt” which shares her journey and her advice for those in the process of breaking up with debt.
In the interview with Melanie, she shares:
- What drove her to rid herself of her student loans
- How she cut her expenses and started side hustling to bring in extra income
- How her side hustling has led to an unexpected career path
- Her best advice for how to find a side hustle that’s right for you, and
- What to do if you want to get out of debt but feel overwhelmed and don’t know where to start
Melanie has an inspiring story that I think anyone struggling with debt needs to hear, and she shares it all in this interview. So here is my interview with Melanie Lockert from deardebt.com. Enjoy!
Thanks again to Melanie for sharing the good, the bad, and the ugly about getting out of debt with us!
[bctt tweet=”How a side hustle helped Melanie Lockert (@DearDebtBlog) break up with debt” username=”MonicaRLouie”]
I hope you pick up her book, “Dear Debt: A Story About Breaking Up with Debt.” I know it will help you break up with debt once and for all.
I encourage you to check out Melanie’s blog at DearDebt.com and consider writing your own Dear Debt letter to break up with debt.
For others that have got out of debt check out these articles.
How Alice and Scott Paid Off $200,000 of Student Loans in Less Than 7 Years
From Credit Card Debt to Loving Her Money with Sarah Li Cain
How Lauren Greutman, The Recovering Spender, Paid Off $40,000 of Debt
Now I’d love to hear about you!
What did you learn from Melanie’s story? Have you started a side hustle yet so you can break up with debt? Please share in the comments below.
Have you joined our free community yet?
Join me in our private Facebook group called Your Debt Freedom Family, where we’ve got an awesome community of people who are breaking up with debt so they can break free and live life on their terms.
Click here to join the fun!
I’d love to see you there!
Keep moving forward toward your goals. You really can live the life you dream about!
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