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By Peter Anderson 1 Comment – The content of this website often contains affiliate links and I may be compensated if you buy through those links (at no cost to you!). Learn more about how we make money. Last edited January 21, 2019.

One great way that I’ve found to save money is to buy things that I would normally buy at a Bricks and Mortar store, at an online store.

You can often find ways to make it cheaper to buy online using one of my favorite things – Coupon Codes!

There are a ton of coupon code sites out there, and some of them are better than others.

Coupon Code Sites

Here are a few of my favorite sites online to save by using coupon codes and discounts:

  • Retailmenot.com: This website is one of the better ones out there. Not only do they allow you to search for coupon codes by website or product type, you can search by keywords as well. They also have a rating system for the coupons telling you how successful people have been when trying to use each coupon code. Some may be 50% successful, while others might be 100%. You can also try out their firefox extension which will show you what coupon codes are available for any one site that you’re browsing. For example, if you are on Amazon, you will get a notification bar saying that there are 22 coupons available for this website.
  • Insideredbox.com:This coupon code website has allowed me to get all of my movie rentals for free. For those of you who don’t know yet, the Redbox is a movie rental kiosk that are found at Mcdonalds restaurants, grocery stores and other retail outlets across the country. Normally movie rentals at redbox are only $1 per night anyway, but after using coupon codes found on the Insideredbox website, all your movies will be free (assuming you return them the next day). Can’t be free movie rentals!
  • The Bargainist.com: Great website to find deals, coupons, tips and freebies. They are updated constantly, and have a great eye pleasing design.
  • Couponheaven.com: Another site with easy to use search functionality that allows you to find coupons to some of the most popular online shopping destinations.
  • Honey: Honey is a Chrome extension that helps you to find coupon codes when you’re checking out on a retailer’s site. They also allow you to check the price on an item and set price alerts. A must use extension.
  • Rakuten: Rakuten is an online coupon codes and cash back website where you can save by shopping through their online portal or app.  I’ve used them to save hundreds of dollars over the years.

So there are a few of the better coupon and hot deals forums sites. Remember, just because you can find a good deal, doesn’t mean you have to buy it. Sometimes the best deal of all, is no deal. But if you have to buy something, don’t forget the coupon codes. Save your money!

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Source: biblemoneymatters.com

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There’s more to Georgia than the Dawgs.

When you think about the best college towns in Georgia, there is a unique blend of southern charm, rich history and vibrant culture that come to mind. The towns featured below offer not just top-notch educational institutions, but also a memorable experience for students and full-time residents alike.

In this article, we will explore four of the best college towns in Georgia. So, grab a glass of sweet tea, kick your feet up and join us on this journey through Georgia’s finest college towns.

Nestled about 70 miles northeast of Atlanta, Athens is home to the University of Georgia, one of the oldest public universities in the United States. This quintessential college town is known for its lively music scene, which has produced bands like R.E.M. and the B-52s. In Athens, you can find a plethora of unique restaurants, bars and shops that cater to the eclectic tastes of college students and residents alike.

The downtown area around UGA’s Campus offers a variety of entertainment options, from art galleries to live music venues. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby State Botanical Garden of Georgia and Sandy Creek Park provide ample opportunity for hiking, biking and exploring nature. Sports fans will enjoy attending UGA’s competitive athletic programs, particularly the beloved football team.

Overall, Athens provides a perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities, making it one of the best college towns in Georgia and the country.

Atlanta is home to several top-notch colleges and universities, including Georgia State University, Emory University, Georgia Tech and Morehouse College. This bustling metropolis offers something for everyone, from world-class restaurants and entertainment to top-tier professional sports teams.

Georgia State University is located in the heart of downtown Atlanta and is full of excitement and energy. Here students are free to pursue their passions, whatever they may be. From the High Museum of Art to the World of Coca-Cola and everything in between, there’s something for every student and recent grad in Atlanta. Additionally, the thriving nightlife in neighborhoods like Midtown and Little Five Points gives students their choice of a plethora of bars, clubs and live music venues to explore.

Emory University’s picturesque campus, located in historic Druid Hills, provides a serene environment for students while still being close to Atlanta’s many attractions. Nearby, the trendy Virginia-Highland neighborhood boasts an array of boutique shops, restaurants and bars to enjoy.

In Atlanta, students can take advantage of the city’s many internship and job opportunities, making it an excellent choice for those looking to launch their careers in the South after graduation.

Known for its stunning architecture and cobblestone streets, Savannah is home to the prestigious Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). This coastal city is steeped in history and boasts beautiful parks, historic homes and fascinating museums that attract tourists from around the world.

SCAD students have the unique opportunity to study in a living museum, as the university has repurposed many of the city’s historic buildings for academic use. The artsy vibe of Savannah is clear in its many galleries, boutiques and cultural events, making it an ideal location for creative minds of all pursuits.

Foodies will love exploring the city’s diverse culinary scene, which includes everything from traditional Southern fare to international cuisine. Savannah’s vibrant nightlife also provides plenty of entertainment options, from lively bars and clubs to ghost tours and historic pub crawls.

With its enchanting beauty and unique local culture, Savannah is undoubtedly one of the best college towns in Georgia for students who appreciate history and the arts.

Located in central Georgia, Macon is home to Mercer University and Wesleyan College. This charming city is steeped in musical history, having played a pivotal role in the development of Southern rock and R&B. Notable artists such as Little Richard, Otis Redding and the Allman Brothers Band all have roots in Macon.

Mercer University’s beautiful, historic campus is situated near downtown Macon, providing students with easy access to the city’s cultural and entertainment hub. The revitalized downtown area boasts a variety of unique shops, restaurants and bars, as well as the historic Grand Opera House, which hosts concerts, plays and other performances regularly.

Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, a prehistoric Native American site, or enjoy the scenic beauty of Amerson River Park. Additionally, music lovers and sports buffs can visit the Allman Brothers Band Museum and the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame to learn about the city’s rich musical heritage and the state’s athletic prowess.

Macon’s blend of history, culture and natural beauty make it a fantastic choice for students looking to experience the best college towns in Georgia.

Honorable Mentions

While Athens, Atlanta, Savannah and Macon are undoubtedly among the best college towns in Georgia, there are a couple other noteworthy destinations worth mentioning.

Located in southeast Georgia, Statesboro is home to Georgia Southern University. This rapidly growing college town is a friendly, tight-knit community that has an array of outdoor activities just minutes away. This includes hiking and birdwatching at the nearby George L. Smith State Park. The revitalized downtown area features a variety of restaurants, shops and entertainment options, making Statesboro a great choice for students who are looking for a smaller, close-knit college town experience.

Kennesaw, a suburb of Atlanta, is home to Kennesaw State University, which is one of the largest public universities in Georgia. The city offers a diverse range of cultural and recreational activities, from hiking at Kennesaw Mountain to shopping and dining at the popular Town Center at Cobb shopping center. Kennesaw’s focus on community and family-friendly atmosphere make it an appealing choice for students seeking a suburban college town experience.

Your Georgia college town awaits

Georgia is home to some of the best college towns in the country, each offering students a wide range of unique experiences and opportunities. It’s easy to see why Georgia is an incredible destination for higher education and unforgettable experiences. So, whether you’re a prospective student, a proud parent or just a visitor passing through, be sure to explore these amazing college towns in the Peach State!

Source: rent.com

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While renovating an entire house is a massive headache project, it’s actually the final details that will have a lasting impact. With the holidays around the corner, I’m working overtime to make our house feel as finished and as cozy as I can (even though we’re still a long way from complete – this is the house that will never end, I swear!). One way to help a space feel finished is with drapery. When looking at the work of interior designers have you ever noticed how often rooms include window treatments? All the time, right?! That’s because drapery can serve as a dramatic design statement. They can tie a room up with a chic bow.

But custom window treatments can be an intimidating thing. I’ve certainly never purchased them before (a piece of fabric and a rod from Ikea doesn’t count!) That’s why I turned to The Shade Store to help me figure it all out. While you can shop The Shade Store online, I’m lucky that there’s a Shade Store showroom in San Francisco – it’s certainly place to get inspired – it’s rather purdy.

 

There are a lot of options to consider when it comes to drapes. There’s the style of window treatment – roman shades, blinds, drapes – different types of folds, different options for hanging, all kinds of finials. And we haven’t even talked fabrics yet! If you love customization, you’ll be a kid in a window candy store in this place.

Thankfully, The Shade Store has their own in-house designers that can help you navigate all of these options. The process is actually quite fun. It starts by getting professional measurements of your windows – something that the Shade Store arranges for you. With those in hand, The Shade Store can create mockups of your rooms and help you cherry pick the perfect designs. With new fabric collections from designers ranging from Jonathan Adler, Kate Spade New York, Jeffery Alan Marks to Diane Von Furstenberg and the Novagratz, you can really get creative. While neutrals are certainly my comfort zone, you can actually use drapery to inject some print, texture or even color (gasp!) to a room. Decisions, decisions.

    

Did you spy that sexy Kate Spade New York stripe sneaking its way into my fabric samples?!

I’m so excited for my final selections to arrive. They’re going to be the perfect touch to make our rooms feel warm and inviting for the holidays. While I’d never claim to be a window-treatments expert, I did pick up a few key basics about classic drapery from The Shade Store that I thought would be helpful to share.

1. Maximize the Height.  Drapes can actually make your ceilings feeling taller. Classic placement is half way between the top of your window and the ceiling – but you can go all the way up to the ceiling if you like the look!

2. Pick Your Fold. Ripple, pleats, invert pleats, grommets, rod pockets. There are all kinds of options for how your drapes will drape, but the Tailored Pleat is a timeless, sophisticated option that is equal parts traditional and modern.

3. Take a Risk. It is easy to just pick a basic fabric and call your decision making done. But don’t overlook the extra details you can use to make your window treatments pop. While you might not see a crazy print in our house, I love the idea of a contrast border to create

4. Go Low. You want to make sure drapes graze the floor. Some people like a puddle look, but that’s very dust bunny friendly. Measure to 1/2 – 1/4″ off the floor to get that long extended look that isn’t too puddled.

Check out the progress on the rest of our house RIGHT HERE.

original photography for apartment 34 by delbarr moradi, inspiration pic 1, pic 2 , pic 3

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Source: apartment34.com

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Moving to a new home can be one of the most exciting times in your life. It gives you the chance to decorate a new space, a new place to create memories with loved ones, and a fresh, new energy to your surroundings. However, when looking for a new place to move, it’s important not only to keep the physical attributes of the apartment in mind, but also the characteristics of the neighborhood. After all, what’s the point of moving to a new place if you don’t like its surroundings?

If you’re thinking about moving to a new city or town, research the different neighborhoods available – what amenities they offer, what the community is like, and what attractions they afford easy access to. Want to know more about what to look for in new neighborhoods? Consider these five important factors when deciding if a new area is the right location for you to call home.

1. Price Range

Pay attention to the price of rent in the neighborhoods you’re considering. You have to be able to afford to pay monthly rent and utilities! Monthly rent prices in a neighborhood are good indicators of the prices of services and amenities in the neighborhood. If you choose a home on the low end of prices for your neighborhood, but there are other rental homes that are much more expensive, there’s a good chance that prices at stores and restaurants in the neighborhood might be on the higher end of things. Ensure that you can not only afford your rental, but also the neighborhood’s available resources.

2. Amenities and Attractions

Another important thing to look for in a neighborhood are great amenities and attractions. You’ll likely be spending the most time at places around your home, so make sure it is surrounded by plenty of activities! Think about what kinds of places you like to spend the most time at. Do you like dining out? Are you a person that spends a lot of time outside in parks? Do you want to be located near top-notch schools or daycares? Make a list of important amenities to you, then look for neighborhoods that closely meet those specifications.

3. Commute

Your work commute is a huge factor when choosing the right neighborhood. Think about how long it will take you to get to and from work, and how you will physically do that. Consider living in a place that offers an acceptable commute time and an easy way to get to and from where you need to go, whether that’s by your own vehicle or public transportation. If you have friends or coworkers already living in some of the prospective neighborhoods, find out if carpooling is a reliable option.

4. Safety

Real estate brokers can’t legally tell you how safe a neighborhood is, but it’s an important thing to keep in mind for an area that you want to call home. You can find reports about crime by geographic area online, and you might want to research different areas to make sure you will feel safe in your new neighborhood. You should also take into account other safety considerations that apply to your life – for example, whether a neighborhood has sidewalks, bike lanes, or a fire department nearby. Pro tip: drive through a prospective neighborhood during the day and at night to get the feel of a local. 

5. Home Size and Shape

Nearly every neighborhood has its own character and personality, and one of the important qualities that makes up its personality is the size and shape of the homes within it. Are you looking to live in a high-rise building? A community of townhouses? A small apartment complex? Each neighborhood has its own character, and the types of available rental homes will reflect that.

Once you’ve considered the above factors, the next step in choosing the right neighborhoods is to research your new hometown and the available neighborhoods within it. By making a list of neighborhoods that definitely have the qualities you’re looking for and eliminating the neighborhoods that don’t, you can start with a much smaller selection of rental homes, ultimately increasing the chances that you’ll find just the perfect rental for you. Look no further than Apartment Guide to begin your search. Do you have any expert tips for finding the right neighborhoods? Share them with us in the comments below, on Facebook or tweet them to @ApartmentGuide on Twitter!

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Per stirpes, which is Latin for “by branch,” “by roots” or “by stalk,” is an estate planning method in a will or trust to specify that if one of your beneficiaries dies before you do, their share of your estate is divided equally among the deceased beneficiary’s descendants.

It’s difficult to consider the possibility that your beneficiaries might die before you do, but planning for the unthinkable helps ensure that your assets will be distributed according to your wishes, regardless of circumstances. Here’s what you need to know so you can decide whether this choice is right for you.

Per stirpes vs. per capita

If one or more of your beneficiaries die before you do, two options can determine how your assets will then be divided:

  • Per stirpes: This designation means that if a beneficiary dies before you do, their share automatically passes to their lineal descendants (their children, grandchildren or great-grandchildren). When you choose a per stirpes distribution, you’re making sure each specific branch of your family receives a share.

  • Per capita: Per capita is Latin for “by head” and involves distribution to specific individuals rather than branches of a family. This designation means each of your beneficiaries only receives a share of your estate if they’re still alive when you die. If a beneficiary dies before you do, their share is divided among the remaining living beneficiaries. The children of a deceased beneficiary wouldn’t receive anything.

It’s important to be clear about per stirpes and per capita distributions in your will because if you don’t specify which designation you prefer, the final distribution of your assets (via probate court) may not reflect your preferences.

How does per stirpes work?

Per stirpes distribution ensures that each beneficiary’s family branch receives the share of assets specified in your will — regardless of whether each specific beneficiary is alive or dead when you die.

  • This designation covers as many generations as is necessary to carry out your will, so a share may go to a deceased beneficiary’s children, grandchildren or even great-grandchildren.

  • Adopted children are included in this lineal distribution and will inherit just as a biological child does — but unadopted stepchildren and spouses of beneficiaries won’t inherit under per stirpes.

  • If a deceased beneficiary has no descendants, that beneficiary’s share will then be divided among the living beneficiaries.

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What is an example of per stirpes?

Here are a few examples of how a per stirpes distribution could play out in a will.

  • Donna is a widow who wills her assets to her three children, Erin, Jerry and Steve, to be divided in equal shares, per stirpes. Jerry dies before Donna, so when Donna passes, Erin and Steve each receive one-third of Donna’s assets. Jerry’s share is divided equally between his two children, who each receive one-sixth of the estate.

  • Andrew has no spouse or children, so he wills his assets to be divided equally between his two closest lifelong friends, Barry and Ted, per stirpes. Ted and his children all die unexpectedly before Andrew. Ted has one surviving granddaughter, Lisa, who then receives Ted’s share of the inheritance when Andrew dies.

  • Eric wills his entire estate to his two daughters, Ann and Bethany, to be distributed in equal shares, per stirpes. Ann dies before Eric, but she never had children. Bethany inherits the entirety of Eric’s estate.

Pros and cons of per stirpes

Pros

  • No need to update your will when additional children or grandchildren are born to your beneficiaries or if one of your beneficiaries dies before you do.

  • Allows you to keep your assets within each branch of your family, even if a beneficiary predeceases you.

  • The linear approach may reduce the chance of family conflict over distribution.

Cons

  • Assets could be distributed unequally if some beneficiaries have more children than others.

  • Someone you don’t want may end up managing some of your assets, for example, if an in-law is responsible for handling the assets of a minor child.

  • Per stirpes doesn’t include stepchildren whom your beneficiary hasn’t legally adopted because stepchildren aren’t considered lineal descendants — even if your beneficiary raised their stepchildren since birth. You’ll need to name stepchildren of your beneficiaries in your will specifically if you want them to inherit a share in the event of your beneficiary’s death.

Source: nerdwallet.com

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One of the fundamental premises of the Get Rich Slowly philosophy is that by making sacrifices and smart moves now, you can create a better life in the future. It’s a philosophy of deferred gratification.

But what if you don’t want to wait to enjoy life’s rewards? What if you want to take advantage of opportunities while you’re still young? Is there a way to do this while still maintaining a smart approach to money?

Timothy Ferriss says there is.

In The 4-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere, and Join the New Rich [my review], Ferriss describes creative approaches to career and retirement. He advocates taking radical action to increase your productivity, which in turn gives you more time to do the things you really want. It almost sounds crazy — and it may not be for everyone — but the book’s ideas are helping me to mold my lifestyle.

Ferriss recently agreed to field questions from Get Rich Slowly readers. This interview will appear in two parts. Today he shares thoughts on productivity and lifestyle design. In the second part — to be published at an undetermined point in the future — he’ll discuss new notions of retirement.

J.D.
Kathleen writes: “I loved the stop-dreaming-and-do-it attitude of the book. But Ferriss comes from a starting point of already having a successful company and his goal was for it to not consume him. This doesn’t speak much to the majority of us who are trying to reach a point where we can keep afloat without selling our souls to the 9-to-5 gods. I would love to hear his thoughts on how to achieve freedom without that starting point.”

Tim
It’s true that I had a business, but it’s important to note that The 4-Hour Workweek is actually an examination of case studies, including employees and even single mothers.

“Lifestyle Design” as an alternative to retirement-based career planning is much like investing: there are dozens of options, each customized for your individual situation and risk tolerance. The first objective isn’t going to be tangoing in Buenos Aires or scuba diving in Japan — it’s eliminating unpaid overtime on the weekends and evenings. Small steps, no matter the situation, sum up to enormous changes and uncommon lifestyles. Step one is defining your ideal lifestyle based on the associated costs.

J.D.
Some people have complained that a four-hour workweek is impossible based on their situation or their job. “How do you work a four-hour workweek in retail?” asks one of my readers. “We have two small children,” writes another. “How can we take baby steps to a freewheeling lifestyle, and how free can we realistically be? Any tips, insights or examples of families taking Tim’s advice?”

Tim
The vast majority of readers who write in with stories like “I just took the first four-week vacation in ten years” have families. Jen Errico from the book took a five-month around-the-world trip with her two children in tow, and there are many similar examples. In fact, there are entire blogs created by mothers and fathers who are using the 4HWW principles of lifestyle design.

In the retail example, it’s true that some jobs and positions will not allow for time abundance, and for such situations, there is a process for killing your job and upgrading your work-life ratio instead of killing your career. Lifestyle design is a buffet of options. I don’t expect anyone to use time the way I do — I’m an extremist. I expect people to create time and use it as they see fit, whether sitting in a hammock with their kids or racing Lamborghinis on the autobahn. I’ve seen both.

J.D.
Many critics of The 4-Hour Workweek have focused on the Automation section. Some don’t like the notion of virtual assistants, for example, and they’re not convinced that everyone can automate their income. Are these specific details important? Can your system function without them? What are other approaches could people consider?

Tim
Having a virtual assistant or exploring personal outsourcing (“offchoring”), as amazing as it is, is not required at all. Like I said, the book is a buffet of options. I don’t expect anyone to use all of it. Pick and choose to optimize your situation. That said, let me make a couple important points on personal outsourcing.

$10 USD buys groceries for a week for someone in Bangalore. I pay my assistants there $5-15 per hour. Do two hours of your friends’ (or your) wages pay for their (your) groceries for a week? Not likely — so who’s really getting paid more? This is an example of the concept of “purchasing power parity”, often called the “Big Mac index”. I’d encourage people to take a look at the research of real economists instead of the propaganda of politicians.

I’m helping to build a middle-class in the countries that need it most, while simultaneously creating new consumers of US and other countries’ goods, for example. There is absolutely no slave labor or exploitation in how I recommend using virtual assistants — none whatsoever. It strengthens the global economy.

J.D.
Bob writes: “I would like to know as best he can give, what Tim’s average NON-mini-retirement day entails.”

Tim
Good question.

My days almost never look the same. I ask my assistants to avoid phone calls on Mondays and Fridays, in case I want to take a long weekend on either end, and I almost always allocate Mondays for general preparation and prioritizing for the week, then any administrative tasks that I need to handle (paperwork for accountants, lawyers, etc.).

I put very few things in my calendar, as I do not believe most people can do more than four hours of productive work per day at maximum, and I loathe multi-tasking. For example, my day tomorrow looks like this, with items in my calendar preceded by an asterisk (*):

  • 10am — get up and eat high-protein breakfast of 300-400 calories (I’m typing this at 2:22am, as I do my best writing from 1-4am)
  • 10:30-12* — radio interviews and idea generation for writing (note taking)
  • 12 noon — workout involving mostly posterior chain (back, neck extension, hamstrings, etc.) and abdominals
  • 12:30 — lunch in a restaurant of organic beef, vegetables, pinto beans, and guacamole (I have this almost every day. Here is my diet.)
  • 1-5pm* — write piece for very large economics publication (I’m not writing this whole time, but I block out this period)
  • 5pm* — review my designer’s latest updates on planned blog redesign
  • 5:30pm — first dinner
  • 6:30-8:30pm — Brazilian jiu-jitsu training
  • 9pm — second dinner
  • 10pm — ice bath and shower
  • 11-2am — chill out and do whatever, probably reading for enjoyment or drinking wine with friends

Before you ask “but what happened to the 4-hour workweek?!” realize that the goal was never to be idle. I hate laziness and make this clear in the book. The goal is to spend as much time possible doing what we want — by maximizing output in minimal time. I don’t have to do anything in this schedule. I choose to do them because I like them. None of them are financially-driven. If the chance to do something fun comes up last-minute, I can cancel all of them. This is true time-freedom.

J.D.
One of my favorite tips in your book — I have it heavily underscored in red ink — is “emphasize your strengths, not your weaknesses”. Explain this concept. Why is it so important?

Tim
It’s very simple. If you try and fix all of your weaknesses, you will be — at best — mediocre at most things you’re inherently poor at. This is inborn talent or weakness. Progress is incremental when you attempt to fix all the chinks in the armor.

Focus on leveraging and amplifying your strengths, which allows you to multiply your results. Fix any fatal weaknesses to extent that they prevent you from reaching your goals, but perfection isn’t the path to your objectives; finding ways to cater to your strengths is. This is also, for example, how you end up documenting and showing improved results to your superiors if you need to negotiate things like remote work, flex-time, paid time off, etc.

J.D.
I also like your notion of a low-information diet. How does one cultivate selective ignorance? What is the value in it?

Tim
Information consumes attention. In a digital world, you then have the potential for infinite minutiae and interruption. Consuming and organizing the excess deluge of data is not a scalable or sustainable model, so we look instead at the only viable option: strategic elimination.

How do you check e-mail once per day or once per week? How do you reverse the self-defeating impulse to “stay informed” and instead catch up when action requires it vs. keeping up? Selective ignorance is one of the few common traits among the top performers I’ve interviewed. Learn to single-task and accept that — ironically — limiting your options is often the best method for improving your results and outcomes.

Timothy Ferriss, nominated as one of Fast Company’s “Most Innovative Business People of 2007,” is author of the #1 New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and BusinessWeek bestseller, The 4-Hour Workweek. The second part of this interview will appear at Get Rich Slowly sometime in the future.

Source: getrichslowly.org

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For quite a while my workplace has only offered a 401(k) plan for employees to invest in, and the investment options in the plan were pretty limited.  Because of that, and the fact that there was no company match on invested dollars, we’ve been investing through other vehicles, like the Roth IRA.

Within the past couple of months our company has switched plan administrators, and in the process the company plan has opened up a whole new slew of investment options. 

While the company still isn’t matching contributions, I was pleasantly surprised to find that they are now offering a new Roth 401(k) plan.

If you’ve been reading this site for any amount of time you know that I’m a big fan of the Roth IRA, so having a Roth 401(k) option is something I’m pretty pumped for. 

But I did have a few questions, including – how are the Roth IRA and the Roth 401(k) different, and does either of them have benefits over the other?

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Contribution Amounts For Roth IRA Vs. Roth 401(k)

One of the biggest differences between the two account types is that their contribution limits vary by quite a bit.

  • Roth IRA contribution limit: The Roth IRA currently has a contribution limit of $6,000, with an allowed $7,000 contribution limit if you’re 50 or over.
  • Roth 401(k) contribution limit: The Roth 401(k) has a higher contribution limit of $19,500/year, with a 50+ contribution limit of $26,000.

So if you’re looking at contribution limits the Roth 401(k) has a definite advantage because you can contribute $13,500 more per year than with a Roth IRA.

Required Minimum Distributions

Quite often retirement accounts like the 401(k) will require that investors take a required minimum distribution from their account balance once they reach a certain age. 

The Roth 401(k) is no different from the account type requiring you to take minimum distributions starting at age 70 1/2.   If you need to be taking money out of the account anyway, that probably isn’t going to be a big deal. 

If however, you would prefer to allow the balance to continue to grow without taking distributions the Roth IRA is probably the better choice.  The Roth IRA account can essentially exist forever without requiring you to take distributions and can be passed down.

Some have suggested that if you don’t anticipate needing to take distributions from your account upon retirement, that you roll your Roth 401(k) over into a Roth IRA when leaving an old job.  That way you won’t have to take RMD.

Investment Options Available

Quite often when you’re working with an employer sponsored retirement plan your investment options are going to be limited to the few options that are made available by your plan administrator. 

Depending on what investment options are available that may mean you’re not able to invest how you might like.

The Roth IRA, however, doesn’t limit your options and you can invest in pretty much whatever you’d like, including individual stocks and bonds.

Luckily for me my company’s new Roth 401(k) plan offers a good range of solid index funds for me to invest in, so this isn’t an issue for me.  

If, however, you’re limited in your own Roth 401(k) and there is no company match, you may want to start by investing in your Roth IRA first.

Company Matching Investments

One thing that is nice about the Roth 401(k) is that you can receive a company match when contributing to that account type. The same can’t be said for the Roth IRA since it isn’t a company-sponsored plan type.

If you are receiving a company match when contributing to a Roth 401(k), your account will have to have a traditional 401(k) component built onto it since company matching funds have to be done pretax. If you are getting a company match I highly recommend contributing to your Roth 401(k) first as it is essentially an instant 100% return on your investment!

Income Limits

The Roth IRA has income limits attached to it, with high-income individuals and couples having contributions phased out completely at $140,000 and $198,000 AGI respectively. Contribution amounts begin phasing out at $125,000 and $208,000 respectively. So if you’re making more than those amounts you may not be able to contribute to a Roth IRA.

The Roth 401(k) on the other hand doesn’t have those income limits.  High income individuals can contribute to a Roth 401(k) without regards to their adjusted gross income.

Is A Roth IRA Or Roth 401(k) Better For Me?

Depending upon what your current situation is, either one of the account types may fit your situation best. Things you’ll need to take into account include your current income levels, whether your company has matching contributions, what kind of investment options are available in your company’s Roth 401(k), and how much you’re looking to invest. Future tax rates and how long you have to invest might play into it as well.

Depending on your situation you may choose to invest in one or both of these account types, and even diversifying your tax situation by investing in a Traditional IRA or 401k as well.   For us, we’re currently investing in both our pretax 401k and our post-tax Roth 401k, as well as investing a bit in our Roth IRA. We’re covering all the bases!

How about you? Are you investing in one or both of these account types? Does your company offer a match?  Have you considered the differences between the account types – and has it affected how you invest? Tell us your thoughts in the comments!

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Source: biblemoneymatters.com

Apache is functioning normally

As a child growing up, I remember my father constantly eating Ramen Noodles in a Styrofoam cup.

It was pretty fascinating that all you had to do was add hot water, and presto, you had a ready to eat meal in a few minutes.

Perfect for an impatient kid!

As I got older I started to notice that the package of Ramen Noodles still existed in our kitchen.

My father had always struggled with money.

He had battled credit card debt and never really made good financial “cents” of his money.

I guess I always just thought that he really liked the cup of Ramen Noodles.

I later found it there was much more to the story.

All Too Familiar Feeling

I remember my first year as a financial advisor.  I was meeting with a couple in their early 60s.  At the time, I was 24 years old and already started a Roth IRA and was quickly learning the proper ways to invest in your 20s.  I remember this couple in particular because while many people get excited about retiring and starting a new venture in their life, with these folks, retirement was nowhere in the near future.

Combined, they had maybe $50,000 saved in their retirement investment accounts combined.  Their jobs offered no pensions, so all they had was social security.

I remember looking at this couple, and eerily, I saw similarities with my father. They had no hope of retiring.  They had done a horrible job of saving.

The Ramen Noodles Jolt

This meeting instantly made me realize that I did not want to follow in their footsteps.

I knew that I did not want to be in my early 60s and be forced to be eating cup of Ramen Noodle soup.

I didn’t want to have to worry about not ever being able to retire.  I know at the age of 24, I was thinking much more different than my peers.  None of my friends talked about retirement.  We talked about the next trips that we were going to go on, what concerts we wanted to go see, still reflecting back on the good old college days.

Investing in Your 20s Isn’t Cool, It’s a Must

I write this because if you are in your 20s, I know you’re thinking the exact same thing, even if it’s just how to invest with 100 dollars.  What’s the point of investing?  What’s the point of saving?  What’s the point of even thinking about retirement?

Here’s one thing I know, you don’t want to be eating Ramen Noodles for dinner for the rest of your life.  It might be good every once in a while, but I promise you, you get sick and tired of it.

So, why is it so important to start investing early in your 20s?

Most young people just don’t get it.  They think they have plenty of time to start thinking about retirement.  While, yes that’s true, what most don’t understand or appreciate is that the sooner you start, the easier it is.

You don’t want to discover you’ve waited until it is too late to retire.

For example, look at this chart.  This chart was something that was shown to me whenever I was junior in college.  The chart literally blew me away.

The chart has two young adults that should be investing in their 20s: Super Saver Parker who starts at the age of 25 and Super Slacker Sloane.   Both graduate with good paying jobs and have well enough income to start contributing to a Roth IRA.

Super Saver Parker 10 Years of Contributions Super Slacker Sloane 30 Years of Contribution
25 $2,000 25 –
26 $2,000 26 –
27 $2,000 27 –
28 $2,000 28 –
29 $2,000 29 –
30 $2,000 30 –
31 $2,000 31 –
32 $2,000 32 –
33 $2,000 33 –
34 $2,000 34 –
35 – 35 $2,000
36 – 36 $2,000
37 – 37 $2,000
38 – 38 $2,000
39 – 39 $2,000
40-65 – 40-65 $50,000
Total Contributions $20,000 $60,000
Ending Account Value $340,060 $266,427
*BIG* Difference

$73,633

Super Saver Parker starts putting $2,000 a year into his Roth IRA ($166.67 per month).   He does this for a total of 10 years and stops for a grand total of $20,000 he put in.  Why does he stop?   Don’t ask.   That’s just part of the illustration.   🙂

Super Slacker Sloane puts off saving because he wants to buy “stuff” (otherwise knows as “crap you don’t need”).  He finally gets it and starts putting $2,000 a year starting at the age of 35.   Wanting to catch Parker, he puts in $2,000 a year for 30 years contributing $60,000 in total – $40,000 more than Parker.  *We’re assuming that they both average 8% return on their money. 

After they showed this chart to me in my finance class, the question that was then asked was,

“Who will have more money at the age of 65?”

I remember my initial thought was “Duh, the guy who put in $40,000 of course!“.

Hmmm…..oh how wrong I was.

The reality is that the person who started 10 years earlier (preferably in their 20s) had actually made $73,633 more even though they put in $40,000 less.

Maybe a Chart Involving Beer Will Help?

Not convinced? Here’s something else to look at:

Sounds great, right? Being able to retire, not having to eat Ramen, being able to drink a gigantic tower of beer… all wonderful.

But if I had to guess there are some of you out there in your 20s — just starting careers, just starting families, just really starting to get into the swing of things — that are wondering:

How the heck do I start? I have no idea what I’m doing!

Well that’s hopefully one of the reasons you are reading my blog. I want every single one of my readers to be able to retire, and if I have to show each one how to do it then that’s what I’m going to do.

Resources for Getting Started on Your Retirement Saving

Here are some resources I’ve created to help you jump start your retirement savings.

Best Online Brokers for Beginners

With the large number of brokerage firms out there it can be really confusing deciding where to open an account. There are some brokers out there that are only for “professional” investors that trade a lot and need all kinds of crazy chart tracking.

If you’re just starting and investing in your 20s then that isn’t you.

I’ve boiled down your best online broker options for you to make the selection that much easier.

I like really simple, and beginner investors should too.

The Roth IRA is one of the best investment accounts to have to grow your nest egg for your retirement.

Naturally, you put the two together and you get a great result.The Roth IRA Movement

Last year I helped start the Roth IRA Movement to encourage young people to open and fund Roth IRAs. Over 140 bloggers jumped in to add their own articles and it was a huge success. The link above takes you to an easily accessible list of all of the posts. A lot of good reading here.

Start Saving for Retirement In Your 20s

No matter which broker you go with or what investment philosophy you end up selecting… please do not delay in starting your retirement savings.  Investing in your 20s is the absolute way to go.  Literally every day that goes by without saving for the future the harder you will need to work and save to meet the same goal.

Let your money work for you by giving it the maximum amount of time to be invested. Don’t end up eating Ramen Noodles and waiting for your next Social Security check. That’s no way to live your golden years.

Source: goodfinancialcents.com

Apache is functioning normally

If you have a heart murmur, it’s going to be an issue when you apply for life insurance.

Applying for life insurance can be a stressful event. When you apply for coverage, the insurance company is going to review dozens of different areas of your life to determine how much they are going to charge you for coverage or if they will even accept your plan. One of the most important factors that they are going to look at is your health and any pre-existing conditions that you may have.

Insurance companies are going to be worried your heart murmur is a sign of more serious health problems. Your insurance outcome really depends on the specifics of your condition.

While you can’t change your health status, you can control how you fill out your application. A well planned application can minimize the impact of your heart murmur on your rating.

In this article, we’re going to examine the underwriting standards for someone with a heart murmur so you’ll know what to expect going forward.

Life insurance is one of the most important safety nets that you can ever buy for your loved ones. It’s one of the only ways that you can ensure that your family will have the money that they need, even if something tragic were to happen to you. We know that shopping for life insurance is not fun, especially if you have a serious condition, like a heart mummer, but that’s why we are here to help.

 

Life Insurance Underwriting with a Heart Murmur

When you meet with your life insurance agent, he should ask you a number of questions about your heart murmur. You should expect to answer:

  1. When were you diagnosed with a heart murmur?
  2. What is the cause of your heart murmur?
  3. Have you had any surgeries in the past to treat your heart murmur?
  4. Do you have any other issues with your heart like coronary artery disease or ventricular hypertrophy?
  5. Have you had any diagnostic tests in the past 6 months to measure the condition of your heart?
  6. General heart health questions like what is your cholesterol level, blood pressure, family history of heart disease, and do you smoke?
  7. Are you taking any medications because of your heart murmur?

Common medications for a heart murmur include: Digoxin, anticoagulants, diuretics, statins, ACE inhibitors, and beta blockers. All of these medications could be insurable depending on the condition of your heart murmur.

As you apply, be sure to include as much information as possible about your heart murmur. An incomplete description of your condition could worry life insurance underwriters and make them more likely to give you a poor insurance rating.

Life Insurance Quotes with a Heart Murmur

When you apply for life insurance with a heart murmur, your rating comes down to the cause of your condition. Functional/innocent heart murmurs like physiologic, cardio-respiratory, and aortic sclerosis heart murmurs won’t hurt your rating too badly provided you don’t have any other heart issues. Organic heart murmurs that came from actual heart problems are a more serious issue.

No matter what is causing your heart murmur, your odds of getting a fair rating go up if you are otherwise in good health, are at a healthy weight, and don’t smoke. While every company has a different underwriting process, here are some general guidelines to give you an idea what rating to expect.

  • Preferred Plus: Possible in very cases for applicants with functional heart murmurs. Applicant must otherwise be in perfect health and had a recent diagnostic test that showed the heart murmur was not from any health problem.
  • Preferred: A more likely rating for very healthy applicants with only functional heart murmurs. Life insurance companies are reluctant to give the best possible rating to anyone with a sign of a health problem like a heart murmur.
  • Standard: Best possible rating for most applicants with a functional heart murmur. Applicants shouldn’t have any heart problems and must be in reasonable health otherwise. Possible in rare cases for applicants with organic heart murmurs, provided their heart condition has been under control for several years.
  • Table Rating (substandard): Most applicants with organic heart murmurs. The rating depends on the severity of a person’s heart issue that is causing the heart murmur. Underwriters also consider whether the applicant needed surgery, has any other heart problems, the applicant’s general health, and family history of heart disease. Unhealthy applicants with a functional heart murmur could also get a rated policy.
  • Declines: Applicants with organic heart murmurs caused by serious heart conditions. Also, applicants that applied within a year or two of a heart surgery, have a family history of heart disease, or have other high risk factors like high blood pressure or smoking.

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Heart Murmur Life Insurance Case Studies

If you have a heart murmur, you need to plan your application properly. A good application can make a significant difference. Here are a couple real life case studies that demonstrate why your application matters:

Case Study #1: Male, 42 y/o, non-smoker, functional heart murmur, no other heart issues, in very good health

Besides his health murmur, this applicant was in perfect health. His heart murmur was a physiologic murmur and didn’t have any impact on his overall health. However, when he applied for life insurance, he only received a standard rating; not bad but we thought he could do better. We recommended this applicant go for an EKG as he had not had one in several years. This test showed his heart was in great shape and he submitted this result with a new application. With this extra information, the applicant was able to receive a discounted preferred policy.

Case Study #2: Female, 56 y/o, organic heart murmur due to mild aortic stenosis, taking statins and Ace Inhibitors, lost weight and quit smoking after heart murmur diagnosis

Before discovering her heart murmur, this applicant had poor health habits. She was overweight and smoked. At 50, she discovered she had a heart murmur due to mild aortic stenosis. This scared her into taking measures to improve her health. She quit smoking, lost weight, and started taking medication to reduce her cholesterol and high blood pressure. When she applied for life insurance though, she only received very expensive, rated policies. We thought that insurance companies weren’t giving enough credit to her recent life improvements. We recommended she see her doctor and ask for a note vouching for her improved lifestyle. By reapplying with this letter, the applicant received a substandard level-2 policy, a decent rating for someone with her past health problems.

 

Getting Better Insurance Rates with a Heart Murmur

Getting life insurance with a heart murmur is going to be more difficult, but it’s not impossible. In fact, it’s easy to get an affordable plan, regardless of your health or any complications that you have. There are a few changes that you can make that will improve your chances of being approved for a cheap life insurance plan.

The first thing that you should do is cut out any tobacco that you currently use. If you’re listed as a smoker, or you use chewing tobacco, you’re at a higher risk for other health problems, like cancer, which means you’re going to be a larger risk to the insurance company. They are going to offset that risk by charging you higher premiums. Cutting out that tobacco can save you thousands of dollars on your life insurance plan.

Another way to save money, regardless if you have a heart murmur, is by improving your overall health. Getting better results on the medical exam are going to lower your insurance premiums. Starting an exercise program and sticking to a healthy diet. Both of these can help you lose weight and lower your cholesterol. This will help you lower your rates by as much as 50%.

The best way to ensure that you’re getting the best premiums is to compare dozens of quotes before you decide which company is going to work best for you. All of them are different and they will all have different medical underwriting, which means that you’ll get drastically varying rates depending on which company that you get the quote from.

Don’t let Your Heart Murmur Get in The Way of Insurance Coverage

With a smart application, you have a great chance of finding a policy. To improve your odds, it helps to work with a broker that understands this health condition.

Source: goodfinancialcents.com