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Have you ever been sitting around with your friends and heard everyone talking about something they have done that you haven’t? We’ve all experienced a certain level of embarrassment when we realize that the people around us have had some experience we missed out on. Well, don’t worry because today we will unveil the top twenty everyday things everybody has done… except YOU! That’s right: You may not have hiked mountains or traveled the world, but trust us—there are plenty of experiences and opportunities for growth out there that can easily spice up your life. 

So get ready to explore some of the most fun things to do—from social media to common adventures! It’s time for an unforgettable journey through some amazing experiences.

1. Trick-Or-Treating as a Child

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

One user shared, “Gone trick-or-treating as a child. It was forbidden by my church, so my parents would shut out all of our lights, and my brother and I would sit up in his room and watch all the other kids walking around in their costumes. I have my own kids now, and we trick-or-treat, carve pumpkins, give out candy… the whole nine yards.”

Another user asked, “Do you dress up with your kids and get candy now??”

The OP answered, “I’ve dressed up a few times… one year, my kids were the perfect ages for us to dress as the Incredibles, and it was epic. I even cut/dyed my hair just like ElastiGirl because I was so excited. And yes, I know what wigs are, but it wasn’t that much of a stretch from what I had then.”

2. Snapping Your Fingers

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

One Redditor posted, “I can’t snap my fingers…”

Another user commented, “Now I’m really curious if it’s a physical situation that limits how your fingers move, or if people have been explaining the moves wrong… Can you fold your ring finger so that its fingertip sits roughly in the middle of the blob of muscle on the palm below the thumb?

“And can you kind of press that fingertip into that muscle to make that finger’s end joint flatten out roughly straight?

“Propping the 3rd finger against the thumb will create that small gap between the base of the thumb & ring finger’s fingertip. Can you aim your middle finger to fly to fill that gap — when the thumb abruptly slides out of the way and lets the ‘spring-loaded’ middle finger fly there?”

Another user commented, “Well, I just snapped for the first time in my 34 years of living!”

3. Breaking a Bone

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

One user shared, “Prob break a bone; it at least seems common since I’ve seen tons of people with broken bones in school (Brace, cast, crutch, etc.).”

Another user commented, “I never broke a bone til I was 41. I tripped, caught myself and broke my elbow.”

One added, “Well, that’s bizarre. Same exact thing. It was two years ago when I was 41. The first bone break was my elbow (radial head fracture) after slipping on ice and trying to catch myself. Best part? The term for that type of fall is a FOOSH (fall on outstretched hand). So, my wife erupted in laughter and decided to call me a footbag, which was the best way to ease my pain at the urgent care…”

5. Moving Out of Your Childhood Home

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

“Move out of my childhood home,” shared one user.

Another Redditor commented, “There was a guy in my neighbourhood growing up who was around 70. He lived in the same house he grew up in and still drove his first car, an old … pickup.

“He was a cool old dude. He also told me his dog was the same one he had growing up, and I was little and susceptible, so it filled me with hope and joy about my dog. I think he underestimated my stupidity and felt terrible, so he told me the dog was different.”

6. Having a Messed up Nose

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

One user commented, “Had a nosebleed.”

Another user added, “Think I probably had your share.”

One Redditor said, “I’ve never had one either, and I have been punched in the nose a few times and nothing.”

7. Walking On Two Legs

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

“Walk on two legs. I walk just fine, but with a prosthesis,” one Redditor posted.

Another user commented, “Prosthesis etiquette question: Is it considered rude to compliment someone on a prosthesis with a neat design? I saw a guy with the coolest Spiderman-themed leg, but I had no idea whether it was okay to mention it.”

One user replied, “Amputee here. Most would be cool with that. If they have Spiderman on their leg, you’re probably fine. For those that it’s a sensitive subject, they will go to great lengths to hide their prosthesis.”

8. Rolling Your R’s

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

“Rolled my r’s,” one user posted.

Another user commented, “Dude, my 8-month-old daughter learned she could do it a few days ago and hasn’t stopped since. Instead of crying, we just get really long rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr cries.”

9. Breaking Bad Cycles

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

One user shared his story of resilience, “I grew up in a [drug] household. My dad. My sister’s. My brother. Their SOs and friends. My boyfriends later on. My sister’s kids. All methods are out all the time.

I was the only one with a job, trying to sleep and eat like an average person. It was crazy. My nephew in prison has asked me numerous times why I never did it. Dude, what? It’s not like they made it look good or fun. Jesus

“Edit to add: holy moly, guys! I didn’t realize this post would get so much attention! Thanks for the well wishes and the awards. I survived, and I’m doing great, given the circumstances. I can’t say the same for all the rest of the family. My sister and BIL did get clean, but unfortunately, two of my nephews did not. One is in prison, and one is off the grid, strung out on meth, living on the street pretending he is Rambo. But I’m proof the cycle can be broken. Thanks again for everything.”

10. Pooping Your Pants as an Adult

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

One Redditor posted, “[Crapped] my pants as an adult. I know it’s coming, and I consider myself privileged.”

One user shared, “As someone who [messes] their pants way more often than any adult should admit to, I find this comment hilarious. You have it coming in. ETA: Thanks for the award! Now I can say I have an award-winning story!”

One user added, “Broke my unbeaten run of not messing my big boy pants going through chemo. It’s ridiculous enough that you’ve just got to laugh. Funny, though, I mentioned it at work, and while all the guys present were willing to hold their hands up and admit to it happening to them at some point/share stories and have a laugh about it, even the usually stoic and serious guy who doesn’t open up was willing to, which was a surprise…

“All of the women present strongly denied having any experience of it. I don’t believe the numbers. I wonder if this trend of being willing to admit to it holds true as a split between the sexes across the board. Just one of those random occurrences that gives you pause for thought.”

11. Getting Stung by a Bee

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

“Gotten stung by a bee/wasp,” posted by one user.

Another commenter added, “Same here, still deathly afraid of them.”

One Redditor shared, “It’s nowhere near as bad as you learn as a kid unless you have an allergy. People grow up learning to fear them from kids, but it’s really super minor by adult standards. The initial sting of a wasp is a surprise, and then it’s just sore like a cross between a sunburn and a really big sore mosquito bite minus the itch.”

One replied, “It’s not so bad until you get stung for the first time on your bottom lip the day before your wedding from a bee that decided it was a good idea to climb down the straw sticking out of your tasty, tasty cocktail… Actually, I guess in the end, it was a plus… it was like 24 hours of lip filler for the bottom lip.”

12 Going Skinny Dipping

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

One user shared, “Skinny dip. And I’m over 60. So disappointed. Never had the opportunity.”

Another user commented, “There’s still time.”

13. Going to Prom

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

“Been to prom,” one Redditor shared.

Another user commented, “Me too. But it’s all good.”

One commenter shared, “Me too. Unlike what Pretty in Pink made me believe, I have no regrets, and I literally never think of it.”

14. Whistling

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

One user posted, “Whistled.”

Another user commented, “I have to inhale to whistle. Can’t exhale to do it.”

One Redditor added, “I’ve finally found my people.”

Another user replied, “As a fellow inhaler, I find I can whistle much higher notes than those who exhale. Losers.”

15. Getting Drunk

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

One user posted, “I’ve never been drunk.”

Another user confirmed, “Me neither. Didn’t discover my gluten allergy until after college. I have visual migraines (kind of like hallucinations during a bad trip) as part of my gluten reaction. I always thought I was a super lightweight—two sips of beer, and I’d feel awful and thought I was super drunk. Since then, I honestly just associate the taste so strongly with that reaction that I can hardly smell it without feeling repulsed. It also triggers my depression for bonus points. No, thank you.”

16. Flying

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

One Redditor shared, “Got on a plane.”

Another user replied, “I’ve gone up in a plane but have never landed in one, lol. The only time I ever got in a plane was when my boss paid for us all to do this ‘bonding’ thing, which turned out to be skydiving.”

17. Having Surgery

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

“I have never had surgery,” one user posted.

Another user commented, “I was doing pretty well on this until a couple of years ago when I needed surgery to keep my insides from becoming outsides. The surgery was way better than the recovery.”

One commenter added, “I’ve got you covered. I’ve had enough of them to balance the scales.”

18. Using a Dating App

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

One user posted, “Used a dating app.”

Another user replied, “Have been married for almost two decades. Based on all the hoops, it looks like heterosexual men are jumping through just to get a date on these apps; if I ever end up single, I guess I’m just staying single and celibate.”

One user disagreed and said, “It’s not as bad as many guys say. You just need to keep yourself clean and well-groomed and work on your knowledge of socializing. And if that doesn’t work, lower your standards. I’ve seen a lot of stories on Reddit where someone has a friend who can’t get a date, but their standards are way too high. It’s like going on a dating app and only tapping yes to the ones you find super attractive.

“Sure, you should be attracted to your partner, but many people focus on the flaws and have this image in their mind of this perfect, flawless partner that simply isn’t out there because we’re all human and have flaws.”

19. Paying Credit Card Interest

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

One user shared, “Paid a penny of credit card interest.”

Another user also added, “Same here. I was always taught credit cards are for building credit and getting points. Never actually treat them as buying something on credit.”

One commenter replied, “Same. I use my credit card a lot because I want that cash back, but it’s always paid off at the end of the month.”

20. Going On TikTok

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

One Redditor shared, “Been on Tiktok.”

Another added, “Never have and never will.”

One commenter replied, “Yeah, I am trying to leave half of the social media, not join more.”

Another user said, “I agree. I quit FB a couple of years ago. I’ve never had anything else. I’ve been on Reddit a lot the last couple of days. Maybe I’m getting lonely. lol.”

Do you have a common thing you haven’t done and would like to share? Let us know in the comments!

Source: Reddit.

10 Actors Perfectly Cast for Their Character Roles

Photo Credit: Warner Bros.

Have you ever watched a movie or show and been completely lost in it because of how well an actor or actress became their character? Check out this article for a whole list of actors who were perfectly cast!

11 Vampire Movies That Will Make You Thirst for More

Photo Credit: Columbia Pictures.

You know that feeling where you’re on a movie kick in a certain genre, but you seem to run out of good movies to watch? Well, if you’re down for a vampire movie or three, check out this article for the best ones out there!

10 Incredible Movies That People Rated 10 Out of 10

Photo Credit: Universal Studios.

It’s pretty hard to replicate the experience of watching your favorite movie for the first time, but we’ve put together a list of movies that people have rated at a perfect 10/10. Next time you need a good movie to watch, check this out!

10 Famous People Who Canceled Themselves With Their Own Stupidity

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

We’ve all been there: you make a comment you haven’t thought through at all, and the whole room goes silent at what you’ve just said. But can you imagine doing that as a famous person—and getting canceled? Check out this list of celebrities who did just that!

13 Things You Shouldn’t Do When You’re in the US

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

Are you planning a trip to the US? Culture varies a lot between countries, even countries that share borders. So if you’re headed to the good old U. S. of A, here are a few pointers to make your travels go more smoothly!



About the Author



Source: financequickfix.com

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The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, act as legal, financial or credit advice. See Lexington Law’s editorial disclosure for more information.

A person’s credit score can impact their finances positively and negatively. Entities from commercial banks to auto loan lenders uses credit scores to determine if they’re willing to trust an applicant. FICOⓇ and VantageScoreⓇ, the two most popular scoring models, assign credit scores from 300 to 850—and higher scores typically pave the way for more lucrative deals.

Whether you have no credit history whatsoever or you’re looking to improve your current credit standing, everyone has the power to work on their credit. There is no set timeline for how long it can take to improve your credit, as everyone’s individual circumstances are different. Keep that in mind as we share 15 of the best ways to work to build credit fast in 2024.

Key takeaways

  • Making timely payments can help you more quickly build credit since payment history makes up 35 percent of your FICO credit score.
  • Becoming an authorized user on another credit card can help improve your score over time.
  • Removing errors on your credit report can help your score most accurately reflect your credit history.

Table of contents:

1. Apply for credit builder loans

Any kind of loan you secure can help you build credit if you make payments on time and in full. However, credit builder loans specifically exist to help borrowers improve their credit. If approved, applicants will pay into a secured account that they can only access at the end of their term.

Pro tip: A lender will normally approve low- or no-credit borrowers for a credit builder loan, but anyone can apply regardless of their standing.

2. Build credit with rent payments

Building credit with rent payments can be especially effective for individuals with no credit history. Your timely rent payments won’t raise your score automatically, as landlords don’t typically report rent payments to the credit bureaus. Instead, you’ll need to find a rent reporting service that can add your payments to your credit report.

Pro tip: You can enroll in rent reporting services with any of the three major credit bureaus: EquifaxⓇ, ExperianⓇ and TransUnionⓇ.

3. Maintain your oldest accounts

A person’s credit age, or length of credit history, makes up 15 percent of your FICOscore. This means that closing an old account can lower your score by reducing your overall credit age. If you have an old credit card, even if you don’t regularly use it, it’s usually best to keep that account open.

Pro tip: You can call your credit card issuer and request that the annual fee be waived on an old card.

4. Apply for a retail credit card

Stores and online vendors that offer retail credit cards can help you quickly build credit if you’re a frequent shopper, with one important caveat: you must use the card responsibly. These cards may come with unique bonuses like cashback rewards or discounts. Just be careful not to overspend so you’re able to pay your balance off in full every month.

Pro tip: Retail cards can benefit frequent shoppers who also have the funds to pay off their debts quickly.

5. Challenge errors on your credit report

Credit reports are intended to reflect your spending habits, but no system is perfect. Sometimes, a payment you’ve made doesn’t get reported on time or you notice inaccuracies elsewhere on your report, like an account you never opened. Lexington Law Firm can check your credit report for errors or discrepancies and challenge them on your behalf.

Pro tip: You can request one free credit report annually from each of the three credit bureaus.

6. Apply for a secured credit card

Secured credit cards traditionally have lower interest rates and higher credit limits than unsecured cards. The caveat is that borrowers will have to put down collateral to be eligible, but responsibly using secured cards can significantly improve your credit.

Pro tip: For secured credit cards, collateral comes in the form of the cash deposit you make when you first open the account.

7. Use a credit monitoring service

Credit monitoring services can help borrowers get a better sense of what’s happening on their credit profile. Many services can also dispute errors and take action if they detect fraudulent activity. Lexington Law Firm offers credit monitoring services and other features like ID Theft Insurance and help with challenging errors on credit reports.

Pro tip: Lexington Law Firm also provides free credit assessments to help you understand which services might benefit you the most.

8. Make timely payments

Payment history accounts for roughly 35 percent of your FICO credit score and about 40 percent of your VantageScore. Consistently making payments on time will display your financial reliability and responsibility to lenders and credit bureaus.

Pro tip: Using autopay can reduce instances of forgetting to make payments on time.

9. Increase your credit limit

Your credit utilization ratio weighs your current account balances against your total credit limit. Increasing your credit limit can give you more breathing room when borrowing funds. Borrowing $500 with a $1,000 limit would give you a 50 percent utilization rate. Borrowing $500 with a $2,000 limit would give you a 25 percent utilization rate.

Pro tip: It’s best to keep your credit utilization ratio below 30 percent if you can.

10. Become an authorized user on another account

Becoming an authorized user on another account lets you borrow funds on a credit card that you may not have access to otherwise. Positive action on that account can affect everyone who’s linked to it—and the same goes for negative habits. You can become an authorized user on another account even if you have no or bad credit history, provided you have the primary account holder’s permission.

Pro tip: It’s best to only become an authorized user on an account where the cardholder already has good or better credit.

11. Acquire a student credit card

Student credit cards typically have less stringent requirements than their grown-up alternatives. Responsibly using these cards can help new borrowers prove their creditworthiness.

Pro tip: Student card requirements normally include enrollment at qualifying institutions, proof of income or a cosigner and no bad credit history.

12. Use a rapid rescoring service

It takes varying amounts of time for changes to be added to your credit report. Rapid rescoring for a mortgage can help your credit by quickly updating your credit report with new information. For a fee, a mortgage lender can pay credit reporting companies to expedite the reporting process for someone who’s looking to take out a home loan.

Pro tip: It can generally take roughly 30 to 45 days for a change to appear on your credit report.

13. Meet with a financial advisor

While it’s becoming increasingly easy to access financial information, not everyone has the years of experience needed to add context to that information. Financial advisors can offer tailored strategies to help clients reach specific goals and improve their credit standing.

Pro tip: You can find a financial advisor to meet with online if you don’t want to meet with one in person.

14. Download credit-building apps

Credit-building apps can help borrowers improve their scores in various ways. Some apps can provide custom recommendations based on the data you provide them. Others can offer incentives and in-app rewards to help promote better financial habits.

Pro tip: Many commercial banks offer free apps with credit-building features.

15. Use a credit builder card

Much like a credit builder loan, this option helps low- and no-credit borrowers increase their standing. Credit builder cards function just like normal cards, but they usually come with more stringent limits like higher interest rates and lower overall limits.

Pro tip: Credit builder cards often have more lenient eligibility requirements than other commercial bank cards.

Improve your credit knowledge with Lexington Law Firm

We’ve outlined some of the best ways to build credit fast in this guide, but there’s still plenty of additional information that could help you increase your financial literacy. Learning how to read a credit report and knowing which factors affect your credit score are vital long-term skills. Lexington Law Firm’s team of professionals can help you gain a better understanding of your credit profile. Get your free credit assessment today.

Note: Articles have only been reviewed by the indicated attorney, not written by them. The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, act as legal, financial or credit advice; instead, it is for general informational purposes only. Use of, and access to, this website or any of the links or resources contained within the site do not create an attorney-client or fiduciary relationship between the reader, user, or browser and website owner, authors, reviewers, contributors, contributing firms, or their respective agents or employers.

Reviewed By

Nature Lewis

Associate Attorney

Before joining Lexington Law as an Associate Attorney, Nature Lewis managed a successful practice representing tenants in Maricopa County.

Through her representation of tenants, Nature gained experience in Federal law, Family law, Probate, Consumer protection and Civil law. She received numerous accolades for her dedication to Tenant Protection in Arizona, including, John P. Frank Advocate for Justice Award in 2016, Top 50 Pro Bono Attorney of 2015, New Tenant Attorney of the Year in 2015 and Maricopa County Attorney of the Month in March 2015. Nature continued her dedication to pro bono work while volunteering at Community Legal Services’ Volunteer Lawyer’s Program and assisting victims of Domestic Violence at the local shelter. Nature is passionate about providing free knowledge to the underserved community and continues to hold free seminars about tenant rights and plans to incorporate consumer rights in her free seminars. Nature is a wife and mother of 5 children. She and her husband have been married for 24 years and enjoy traveling internationally, watching movies and promoting their indie published comic books!

Source: lexingtonlaw.com

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Big Losses Get Bigger After ISM Data

By:
Matthew Graham

Mon, Feb 5 2024, 3:23 PM

Big Losses Get Bigger After ISM Data

Bonds sold off again today, but this time in several distinct waves.  The first wave occurred instantly as trading opened in the overnight session.  10yr yields jumped immediately from 4.02 to 4.08 as investors reacted to Powell’s 60 Minutes interview (which reiterated that strong econ data means the Fed is in no hurry to cut).  Stronger econ data in Europe pushed EU yields higher, kicking off the 2nd wave of selling and taking 10s to 4.12.  Then in U.S. hours, a broadly stronger ISM Services PMI kicked off the 3rd wave, taking yields over 4.16% by the 3pm CME close.  With that, bonds are basically back in line with January’s highs unless you ask shorter-term bonds (more influenced by Fed Funds Rate expectations) which are the highest since the Dec 13th Fed announcement.

09:18 AM

Sharply weaker overnight, with losses out of the gate and additional weakness in Europe.  10yr up 10bps at 4.119.  MBS down almost half a point in 5.5s and just over a quarter point in 6.0 coupons.

10:35 AM

Additional losses after ISM data.  MBS down over half a point.  10yr yield up 13.2bps at 4.154.

02:05 PM

Weakest levels just before 11:30am.  Sideways since then.  MBS down almost half a point in 5.5 coupons and 10 ticks (.31) in 6.0 coupons). 10yr up 13.8bps at 4.16%

 Download our mobile app to get alerts for MBS Commentary and streaming MBS and Treasury prices.

Source: mortgagenewsdaily.com

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The median annual salary for a paralegal is $59,200, according to the latest figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. But depending on where you live, your area of expertise, and your level of experience, you could make upwards of $121,110 or more a year.

A career as a paralegal can be a fulfilling choice for those interested in the law. While the job can be demanding and the hours sometimes long, it can also provide professional satisfaction and a chance to help others in your community.

What Are Paralegals?

A paralegal works under the supervision of a lawyer and performs supportive legal tasks. Administrative duties require a knowledge of the law, but you don’t have to have a law degree or a law license.

Paralegals are often responsible for the following tasks:

•   Draft motions and pleadings for an attorney and file it with the court.

•   Research cases. Paralegals research current and old legal cases to help discover relative precedents and understand past rulings.

•   Interview clients and witnesses involved in a case.

•   Communicate with clients throughout the phases of the legal process.

•   Collect documents, client testimonials, and expert witnesses on behalf of the attorney.

•   Draft reports and legal documents for cases.

•   Factcheck legal filings and documents for accuracy.

•   Gather supporting documents that a lawyer may use or file with the court.

•   Coordinate cases, including their schedules and deadlines.

•   Assist and support lawyers during trials.

Being a paralegal is not a job for antisocial people, as it typically involves being a liaison between clients, attorneys, investigators, witnesses, and court officials.
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How Much Do Starting Paralegals Make?

Whether they’re fresh out of school or have been working for several years, paralegals can be paid hourly or earn a yearly salary. A typical rate for a brand-new paralegal is $19.20 an hour or $55,332 a year.

An entry-level salary or hourly rate for a paralegal varies by work environment. Smaller firms and nonprofits tend to pay less, while bigger corporate law firms may offer more competitive pay.

Paralegals can specialize in certain areas, including litigation, real estate, divorce, intellectual property, immigration, and bankruptcy. Honing your skills in a particular area of the law could help position you for higher-paying opportunities.

No matter the size of your salary, it helps to keep a close eye on your finances and the progress you’re making toward your financial goals. Online tools like a money tracker app can help you create a budget, monitor your credit score, and more.

Recommended: Is a $100,000 Salary Good?

What Is the Average Paralegal Salary by State?

Like most jobs, the amount of money you can earn as a paralegal is impacted by geography. As the chart below shows, salaries in this field can fluctuate from state to state.

The Median Salary by State for a Paralegal in 2022

State Median Salary
Alabama $48,620
Alaska $61,490
Arizona $59,050
Arkansas n/a
California $69,790
Colorado $65,010
Connecticut $63,490
Delaware $59,660
District of Columbia $87,610
Florida $52,190
Georgia $51,420
Hawaii $58,630
Idaho $48,500
Illinois $60,370
Indiana $47,710
Iowa $52,660
Kansas $48,490
Kentucky $48,810
Louisiana $50,310
Maine $54,710
Maryland $58,760
Massachusetts $63,360
Michigan $58,780
Minnesota $60,380
Mississippi $43,590
Missouri $55,410
Montana $55,270
Nebraska $50,610
Nevada $61,180
New Hampshire $50,960
New Jersey $61,040
New Mexico $48,320
New York $62,730
North Carolina $51,340
North Dakota $48,740
Ohio $50,580
Oklahoma $48,490
Oregon $63,980
Pennsylvania $62,080
Rhode Island n/a
South Carolina $48,190
South Dakota $54,100
Tennessee $48,420
Texas $56,310
Utah $52,820
Vermont $60,560
Virginia $59,500
Washington $69,260
West Virginia $47,990
Wisconsin $49,970
Wyoming $52,000

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Paralegal Job Considerations for Pay and Benefits

Thinking about becoming a paralegal? Consider the following:

•   Areas of interest. Paralegals can work in any number of specialties: corporate law, patent law, health care, and more. Thinking about which field best suits your interest can help guide your training and job search.

•   Career goals. Is career advancement and an annual pay raise important to you? Is having a flexible schedule a priority? Discuss your options with a hiring manager before accepting a position.

•   Benefits. Many full-time and part-time paralegals are eligible for benefits, including, health, vision, and dental insurance, a 401(k), tuition assistance, and paid time off.

•   Time and energy commitment. Some areas of law, like litigation, are more stressful than others and may require longer working hours.

Recommended: How to Create a Budget in 5 Steps

Pros and Cons of Being a Paralegal

Ultimately, deciding if becoming a paralegal is a good fit depends on your interests, skills, and goals. Like any profession, working as a paralegal has its positives and negatives:

Pros:

•   Salary. Paralegals stand to earn excellent pay, especially if they train for specific roles. A courtroom presentation specialist, for instance, may earn between $67,500 and $125,000 a year.

•   Job outlook. Paralegals are in high demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in the field are projected to grow 4% from 2022 to 2032.

•   Variety of work. On any given day, a paralegal may juggle a number of cases and assorted tasks — from paperwork to writing motions to speaking with witnesses.

•   Stimulating work. Creative problem-solving skills and analytical reasoning are put to use every day as a paralegal. The job also requires staying up-to-date on new and changing laws.

•   No law school. Becoming a paralegal requires much less education than is demanded of lawyers. A bachelor’s degree in any field and completing an accredited paralegal program are often all that’s needed.

Cons:

•   Long hours. Paralegals often work more than the traditional 40-hour week. As deadlines and court dates approach, you may find yourself working late nights and weekends.

•   High stress. In addition to assisting lawyers with complex legal issues, paralegals may work closely with demanding clients.

•   Lack of autonomy. When you’re a paralegal, you work directly under and are supervised by a licensed attorney. And since you are not certificated to practice law, you cannot advise your clients on legal matters or represent them in court.

💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

The Takeaway

While the hours can be long and the environment sometimes stressful, being a paralegal can provide you with an opportunity to help others, stay intellectually stimulated, and earn a good salary. While the average paralegal salary is around $59,200 a year, you may be able to earn more depending on your experience, specialty, and location.

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With SoFi, you can keep tabs on how your money comes and goes.

FAQ

What is the highest-paying paralegal job?

One of the highest-paying paralegal jobs is a courtroom presentation specialist, which typically pays between $67,500 and $125,000 a year.

Do Paralegals make 100k a year?

Depending on how much experience you have, your area of expertise, and your employer, you could make $100,000 or more a year as a paralegal.

How much do paralegals make starting out?

When they’re just starting out, a paralegal earns an average of $19.20 an hour or $55,332 a year.

Photo credit: iStock/sturti

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. (Must click on the link to be eligible.) This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the Rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed into SoFi accounts such as cash in SoFi Checking and Savings, SoFi credit cards or loan balances, and fractional shares subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

SORL1023014

Source: sofi.com

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A personal trainer earns an average of $67,012 a year, according to the latest data from Salary.com. However, salaries typically fall somewhere between $48,347 and $82,320.

How much you can make as a personal trainer depends on several factors, including where you live, who you work for, your training experience, and your areas of expertise. Let’s unpack this.

What Are Personal Trainers?

A personal trainer develops customized exercise programs for clients based on individual skill levels, health goals, physical limitations, and other considerations. These professionals work with clients of all ages and skill levels to improve strength, flexibility, and endurance; complete workouts safely and without injury; support them on their weight loss journey; and more.

Trainers are often paid hourly, but they may earn a yearly salary if they work for a gym or high-end client. How much money a personal trainer makes depends on the range of services and level of attention they provide — in general, the more, the better.

It also helps if you have good people skills, as you’ll be working closely with clients. (Not much of a people person? You may want to look into jobs for introverts instead.)
💡 Quick Tip: When you have questions about what you can and can’t afford, a spending tracker app can show you the answer. With no guilt trip or hourly fee.

Check your score with SoFi

Track your credit score for free. Sign up and get $10.*

How Much Do Starting Personal Trainers Make an Hour?

The average entry-level wage for a personal trainer in the United States is $29 per hour, or $61,104 a year, according to ZipRecruiter. But depending on a host of factors, personal trainers can earn anywhere from $11.06 to $51.92 an hour.

So is it possible to make $100,000 a year or more as a personal trainer? Short answer: yes. A six-figure income may be attainable once you gain enough experience and establish a steady client base. But keep in mind that those things often take time to develop.

Recommended: What Is Competitive Pay?

What Is a Personal Trainer’s Yearly Salary by State?

Location can play a major factor in a personal trainer’s income. A professional who’s established in their career may earn an average of $67,012, but as the chart below shows, take-home pay can vary significantly from state to state.

The Average Personal Trainer Salary by State

State Median Salary for a Personal Trainer
Alabama $53,023
Alaska $59,756
Arizona $54,514
Arkansas $45,525
California $61,037
Colorado $57,837
Connecticut $53,361
Delaware $66,789
Florida $43,714
Georgia $49,394
Hawaii $57,813
Idaho $58,505
Illinois $53,350
Indiana $55,666
Iowa $53,072
Kansas $49,804
Kentucky $47,885
Louisiana $48,567
Maine $59,455
Maryland $64,637
Massachusetts $60,291
Michigan $47,929
Minnesota $55,627
Mississippi $52,898
Missouri $51,521
Montana $53,693
Nebraska $63,126
Nevada $56,502
New Hampshire $57,587
New Jersey $58,470
New Mexico $55,489
New York $64,556
North Carolina $49,937
North Dakota $58,914
Ohio $54,118
Oklahoma $61,134
Oregon $58,939
Pennsylvania $59,132
Rhode Island $54,591
South Carolina $50,988
South Dakota $55,680
Tennessee $51,669
Texas $58,217
Utah $51,630
Vermont $63,225
Virginia $65,639
Washington $71,304
West Virginia $45,668
Wisconsin $57,762
Wyoming $56,523

Source: ZipRecruiter

Recommended: The Highest-Paying Jobs in Every State

Personal Trainer Job Considerations for Pay and Benefits

When you’re just starting out as a personal trainer, there are many factors that may influence the direction of your career. For instance, working at an established commercial gym can offer an opportunity to gain experience, build up a client network, and receive job benefits.

If you’re more of a self-starter and prefer a degree of independence, working as a self-employed personal trainer might be the better fit. You’ll have the ability to set your own hours and hourly rate; however, you’ll also have to pay for health benefits and set money aside for retirement.

Here are some questions to ask yourself when starting a career as a personal trainer:

•   How many hours are you willing to work?

•   Would you rather work for someone else or be your own boss?

•   Do you need health insurance benefits?

•   Where do you see yourself in five to 10 years?

•   What type of clients do you want (ex. senior citizens, athletes)?

•   Are you willing to commute or relocate?

•   What additional certifications might you need?

•   What are your financial goals?

Establish what you need to earn as a personal trainer in order to cover your expenses and maintain the lifestyle you want. It can help to sit down and create a budget.

As your personal trainer career gets going, you can lean on financial tools like a money tracker app to help you monitor your spending and saving.

Tips to Increase a Personal Trainer’s Salary

Clients can come and go for a number of reasons, but there are some things you can do as a personal trainer to keep the ones you have and attract new ones. Here are some strategies to consider:

•   Listen to your clients, and be willing to adapt to their needs.

•   Sharpen your motivational skills. Pay attention to other successful trainers and how they inspire their clients.

•   Be empathetic. Many clients may struggle during their workouts, both physically and psychologically. Empathy can go a long way in maintaining healthy client relations.

•   Go where you’re needed. Investigate niches where your expertise can be of use, be it an elderly care center, health center, or a new neighborhood gym.

•   Network and market yourself. Chat up members at your gym and discuss their fitness goals. You can also promote your own fitness journey and methods on social media.

•   Earn new certifications. Get certified in CPR, yoga, Pilates, and nutrition. The more you know, the more in-demand you may be.

Pros and Cons of Being a Personal Trainer

As with any job, there are pluses and minuses to working as a personal trainer. Here are some of the benefits and challenges of the field:

Pros:

•   Flexible hours. You can often schedule clients when you want to.

•   Professional control. You’re able to build up your business through marketing and networking, adding clients as you raise your earning goals.

•   Staying physically fit. You’ll have to practice what you preach. Staying in shape is a job requirement.

•   Personal satisfaction, especially when you help a client meet their goals.

Cons:

•   Fluctuating income/job security. There’s no way to predict how many clients you may have month-to-month or year-to-year.

•   Lack of benefits. Many personal trainers work for themselves and have to pay for their own health and dental insurance, plus save for retirement.

•   Nontraditional work hours. Although you have the ability to make your own schedule, most of your working clients will likely request early morning, evening, or weekend sessions.

•   Shorter career lifespan. Even the most in-shape trainer ages, and there may come a day where you struggle to physically keep up with your clients.

💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

The Takeaway

A personal trainer’s salary can rise and fall with the ebb and flow of clients, but there is also no limit to the amount of money you can make. Whether you are working with a few dedicated clients or creating your own global fitness brand, being a personal trainer can be a great way to earn a salary while keeping yourself and your finance goals in shape.

With SoFi, you can keep tabs on how your money comes and goes.

FAQ

What is the highest paying personal trainer job?

Personal trainers to wealthy clients and celebrities typically command lucrative salaries. The most popular fitness influencers on TikTok and Instagram, for example, can make over $1 million a year.

Do personal trainers make $100k a year?

A well-established personal trainer can make $100,000 a year with experience, marketing savvy, good time management skills, and a loyal client base.

How much do personal trainers make starting out?

The average starting wage for a personal trainer in the United States is $29 per hour, or $61,104 a year.

Photo credit: iStock/Drazen Zigic

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. (Must click on the link to be eligible.) This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the Rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed into SoFi accounts such as cash in SoFi Checking and Savings, SoFi credit cards or loan balances, and fractional shares subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

SORL1023013

Source: sofi.com

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Many people are turning to the option of living with a roommate to help balance out the financial strain of rental prices. Make sure you find the right one.

Since living with someone else can turn out as a pretty terrible experience sometimes, it’s important to vet out your roommates beforehand to avoid the bad ones. We’ve all heard the horror stories of piles of dirty dishes, the garbage that’s never taken out and late-night weekday parties. You may have even experienced these frustrations first-hand.

If you haven’t looked for one before, you may wonder how to find a roommate. Fortunately, with social networks and technology, there are plenty of roommate finder apps to help your search. Here is a list of our favorites and tips for identifying what is the best roommate finder app and websites for you.

1. Roomi

Roomi uses an algorithm to match you up with a roommate that would best be suited for you. You answer questions about yourself, what you’re looking for in an ideal roommate and Roomi then works its magic to pair two matches together.

Roomi has users do quick background checks and gives the option to link social media accounts so both roommates can feel more confident and secure in the process. Once you’re ready to message a potential “roomi,” you can do so through the app so you don’t have to exchange any personal contact information until you’re ready.

2. Roomster

Roomster has listings in more than 192 countries and 18 languages. It connects potential roommates using personality traits, keyword searches and interests to help you find your ideal match.

Members can match based on testimonials from friends, hobbies, interests and questions answered through their profiles. Roomster allows users to link their social accounts, so this app tends to have more data to find the perfect match. Once you find a potential roommate that looks promising, you can connect with them through the Roomster mailbox.

3. RoomEasy

RoomEasy is kind of like the Tinder of roommate apps. With RoomEasy, you create a profile, add personal description tags from their system and browse roommate and apartment listings. You can also connect your Facebook profile and see if your potential new roommate and you have any mutual friends.

Once you find something that interests you, you’ll “like” your favorite places or potential roommates’ profiles, and if they “like” yours, you’ll be matched. Once you’re matched, you can connect through the chat app.

4. SpareRoom

SpareRoom claims it is the busiest roommate app, with a roommate match being found every three minutes on its platform. What really sets SpareRoom apart from some other roommate apps is that it has a team of real people that screen each and every ad on SpareRoom so you can ensure listings are safe and verified.

This app even hosts speed room-mating events where you can meet up with people in your community and go through a roommate speed date-like process to see if you find someone you mix well with.

5. BunkUp

BunkUp is a pretty cool app that will help you find a roommate and an apartment. With BunkUp, much like the other apps, you fill out details about yourself and what you’re looking for in a roommate and are you’re matched or “BunkedUp.”

You can look for someone to move into your open space, move into a vacant room someone else is offering or find a new roommate to look for an entirely new apartment with. BunkUp even has agents that will help you find a new apartment.

6. Circle

Circle allows you to create a profile as either someone looking for a roommate to move into your place or as someone searching for a new place to live. It shows your potential roommates based on your profile and specifications.

It even “verifies” users, which means that a user has an authenticated driver’s license connected to their profile and they’ve passed a background check. Circle always shows you the “verified” potential roommates before all others, so you know that those who show up higher on your list are real people that aren’t trying to pull a scam. You’ll also be able to chat with potential roommates and ask questions to see who you get along with best to create a positive living environment.

7. Cirtru

  • Website only

Cirtru has truly adapted to the digital age. It allows users to take virtual tours within the platform so you can check it out safely from wherever you are. This makes it easy to both find a roommate to fill a vacancy in your home or look for an empty room to move into.

Cirtru is especially useful for animal lovers and owners as it allows you to set your preferences based on many criteria, including pet-friendly rentals and pet-welcoming roommates.

8. RoomieMatch

  • Website only

RoomieMatch is all about safety. It uses human “Scam Busters” to review submissions and listings, including an IP address location check to share the actual city in which people are, so you won’t deal with many scammers. Plus, your personal info is stored offline, instead of inline, so it can’t be accessed by online hackers and spammers

As a user, you can set your RoomieMatches based on gender, sexual orientation, lifestyle choices (like smoking/non-smoking), age and pet-friendliness.

9. Diggz

  • Website only

Diggz matches you with roommates based on a variety of factors connected with your profile, like your lifestyle, personality and personal preferences. You’ll be able to “like” other profiles that you’d be interested in rooming with. It’s similar to dating apps where you only talk to people that you “like” and who “like” you back.

Diggz works for almost any situation, whether you’re looking for a new roommate to move in with you, you want to move in with someone else or you want to search for a new place with a new roommate.

10. Roomaters

Roomaters uses more than the preferences you set for finding a roommate. Users take a personality test that helps when matching them with potential roommates.

Plus, you’ll get to input your interests, hobbies and a bit about what kind of roommate you are (social, introverted, messy, neat freak, etc.). So whether you like music, art, rock climbing or superhero movies, you can find someone you’ll enjoy living with.

Ask the right questions before sharing a living space

No matter where you source your new roomie, it’s essential to pose some hard-hitting questions aimed at gaining insights into their way of life and financial well-being. Here are several queries to initiate the conversation:

  • What qualities are you seeking in a roommate?
  • Are you thinking about a month-to-month rental arrangement, or are you leaning towards a longer commitment, such as a year?
  • Could you provide an overview of your typical work hours?
  • Do you share your living space with any pets?
  • What are your usual waking and sleeping hours?
  • How do you typically spend your leisure time?
  • Are there frequent visitors in your social circle? If so, who usually comes around?
  • Is smoking or alcohol consumption part of your routine?
  • Do you have any significant food or animal-related allergies?
  • Are you planning to bring along any furniture items? Do you have a need for parking space, perhaps a garage? What is your approach to maintaining cleanliness and tidiness around the house?

Roommate finder apps pair you with the right person

With so many roommate finder apps out there, it’s easier than ever to locate a perfect roommate — or at least a good one. Gone are the days of blindly showing up at someone’s place or finding a creepy classified ad in the paper. If you’re looking for the ideal roommate, give one of the above apps or sites a try.

…And Rent. pairs you with the right apartment

Maybe you already know who your potential roommate will be but you’re still looking at apartments together. We can help with that, too. Just type in your target city to get started, then filter by price range, pet-friendly apartments and more to help you decide.

Morgen Henderson is a writer who grew up in Utah. She lived in the Dominican Republic for a year and a half, where she was involved in humanitarian service. Some of Morgen’s work has appeared in State of Digital, The Next Scoop and TechPatio. In her free time, she loves to travel, bake, master DIY projects and improve her Spanish skills.

Source: rent.com

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Was The Jobs Report Real and What Are The Lasting Implications?

By:
Matthew Graham

Fri, Feb 2 2024, 5:05 PM

Was The Jobs Report Real and What Are The Lasting Implications?

Is Friday’s NFP number of 353k versus a 180k forecast “real?” Or is it some distortion created by the annual benchmark revision process?  Yes and no.  Smart, credible market participants don’t even entertain the notion of intentional manipulation. That said, they’re well aware of unavoidable distortions, and today’s payroll count qualifies.  That’s not to say the job gains weren’t “real,” but NFP overstated the resilience of the labor market.  That’s why yields are still much lower than they were last week.  Why are they so much higher than yesterday, then?  Partly because yesterday capped an aggressive snowball rally that was built on a shaky foundation.  The only truly solid foundation will be a sustained return to 2% inflation, and the only thing that would predispose traders to believe in that return any faster would be an obvious deterioration in the data.  At the very least, today’s jobs report is anything but a deterioration.

    • Nonfarm Payrolls
      • 353k vs 180k f’cast
      • last month revised to 333k from 216k
    • Unemployment Rate
      • 3.7 vs 3.8 f’cast
    • Earnings
      • 0.6 vs 0.3 f’cast, 0.4 prev
    • Nonfarm Payrolls
      • 353k vs 180k f’cast
      • last month revised to 333k from 216k
    • Unemployment Rate
      • 3.7 vs 3.8 f’cast
    • Earnings
      • 0.6 vs 0.3 f’cast, 0.4 prev

09:43 AM

Much weaker after strong jobs report.  MBS down 3/8ths.  10yr up 11bps at 3.993

11:18 AM

More weakness in Treasuries.  10yr up 16bps at 4.043.  MBS down half a point.

03:06 PM

Weakest levels of the day around 1pm and recovering slightly since then.  MBS down just over half a point and 10yr up 14.7bps at 4.031

 Download our mobile app to get alerts for MBS Commentary and streaming MBS and Treasury prices.

Source: mortgagenewsdaily.com

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  • Luxury home prices are at the highest they’ve ever been, with prices rising twice as much as non-luxury homes, Redfin said.
  • The typical US luxury home sold for about $1.17 million in the fourth quarter of 2023, up 8.8% year-over-year.
  • “So many affluent buyers are able to buy homes in cash, rendering today’s elevated mortgage rates irrelevant.”

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Luxury home prices have hit an all-time high, rising at twice the pace of non-luxury homes, Redfin wrote in a report on Wednesday. While high mortgage rates have crushed the rest of the housing market, wealthy buyers have enough cash to pay for a home upfront, free from the rate “lock-in effect.”

“Luxury prices are rising at twice the rate of non-luxury prices largely because so many affluent buyers are able to buy homes in cash, rendering today’s elevated mortgage rates irrelevant,” the release stated. “High mortgage rates have a more chilling effect on the rest of the market, upping interest payments and keeping price increases modest.”

A typical US luxury home cost $1.17 million as of the end of last year, up 8.8% from a year earlier. Compare that to the price of a non-luxury home, which rose 4.6% to a record $340,000.

Luxury home prices rise at twice the pace of non-luxury prices

Redfin



Redfin defines a luxury home as “those estimated to be in the top 5% of their respective metro area based on market value.” Non-luxury homes fall in the 35th to 65th percentile.

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The share of rich homebuyers paying all cash in the luxury home market rose to a record 46.5% in the fourth quarter of 2023. That’s up from 40% a year ago.

“A lot of luxury buyers are coming in with cash, snapping up expensive homes,” a Redfin Premier agent, Heather Mahmood-Corley, said. “High-end homes are selling fast, especially in desirable areas like luxurious Scottsdale, or Tempe, which West Coast transplants love because it’s centrally located. One client recently bought a house in Tempe, flipped it, and it sold for $1.4 million in two days.”

What’s driving the surge is not just the fact that wealthy Americans can skip taking out a home loan. It’s also that the supply of luxury homes is still low, driving up competition and pushing bid prices higher.

The luxury housing market as a whole is performing well, and new luxury listings have risen 19.7% year-on-year — the biggest jump in two years, according to Redfin. The total number of luxury homes on the market also rose by 13%. Sales dipped by 1.7%, but that’s the smallest decline the market has seen since 2021.

Source: businessinsider.com