Saudi Arabia said Thursday it will extend its unilateral production cut of 1 million barrels of oil a day through the end of September in its effort to boost flagging energy prices, a move that could push U.S. gas prices higher.
The Saudi reduction, which began in July, comes as the other OPEC+ producers have agreed to extend earlier production cuts through next year.
The national average for U.S. gas prices stood at about $3.82 a gallon on Tuesday — about 30 cents higher than a month ago, according to motor club AAA. While today’s prices at the pump remain far lower than they were last year, when energy costs soared worldwide in the months following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, experts say such a jump is unusual.
The kingdom announced the extension in a statement on the state-run Saudi Press Agency, quoting an anonymous official in the Energy Ministry. The official added that the cut “can be extended or deepened” if the need arises.
Mortgage rates tick higher
The average long-term U.S. mortgage rate rose again this week, bad news for Americans seeking to upgrade or buy their first home.
The average rate on the 30-year home mortgage rate ticked up to 6.90% this week from 6.81% a week ago. A year ago, the benchmark home loan rate stood at 4.99%, mortgage buyer Freddie Mac reported Thursday.
The average rate on 15-year fixed-rate mortgages, popular with those refinancing their homes, climbed to 6.25% from 6.11% last week. A year ago, it was 4.26%.
High rates can add hundreds of dollars a month in costs for borrowers, limiting how much they can afford in a market already overpriced for many Americans.
High inflation has driven the Federal Reserve to raise its benchmark interest rate 11 times since March 2022. Its fed funds rate has hit the highest level in 22 years.
While inflation is cooling, interest rates remain high, which puts a damper on Americans’ plans to buy a home or refinance their existing mortgages. The natural question many homeowners are asking themselves in this economic climate: Should I buy a home now at high rates and refinance later, or should I wait for rates to fall? We posed the question to several real estate and mortgage professionals and educators, and their answers may surprise you.
If you’re considering buying a new home or refinancing your current one it helps to know what rate you may qualify for. Find out here now!
When buyers should buy now and refinance later
Robert Johnson, a professor at Heider College of Business at Creighton University, points out that purchase price and mortgage rate are the two primary financial factors potential homebuyers consider when buying a home, but there’s a critical distinction between the two.
“What many fail to understand is that only one—mortgage rate—can be renegotiated,” says Johnson. “Once a home is purchased, you can’t renegotiate the purchase price. What this means, in my opinion, is that if you find a home you believe is priced attractively, I would be more apt to pull the trigger than if mortgage rates are attractive and home prices seem high. In financial terms, you have optionality for the remainder of your mortgage to renegotiate terms. You don’t have that option with a purchase price.”
As the saying goes, “Marry the home, but date the rate.”
Additionally, you may experience other unique benefits if you buy a home in the current climate. “Buyers who are in the market while interest rates are high may have certain advantages that they otherwise wouldn’t, such as less competition and more negotiating power,” states Afifa Saburi, senior researcher at Veterans United Home Loans. “While they still have the option to refinance, potentially more than once throughout their 15- or 30-year mortgage term, they also have the opportunity to build equity and wealth.”
As with many financial questions, the answer may not be cut and dried, as it will depend on your financial situation and forces outside your control. For example, it’s hard to consider mortgage rates in a financial decision when it’s unclear which direction they will move.
Regarding whether to buy now and refinance later or adopt a wait-and-see approach to , economist Peter C. Earle from the American Institute for Economic Research says it’s hard to predict. “Typically, the rule of thumb is that one wouldn’t finance unless the new mortgage rate to lock in is at least 0.75% to 1% lower than the established rate,” says Earle.
“The Fed has jawboned exhaustively about their intention to keep rates at present levels once their hiking campaign is over, but if the U.S. enters a recession, it’s not at all clear that they won’t drop rates. That’s been their playbook since the Greenspan era,” said Earle, referring to Alan Greenspan, the former chairman of the Federal Reserve of the United States.
Not sure what purchase rate you would qualify for? Explore your rates and options here now to learn more.
When buyers should wait until rates drop back down
No matter when you buy a home, the decision should be based on sound financials, namely, whether you can afford the payments and how long you plan on staying in the home long-term.
Brian Wittman, owner and CEO of SILT Real Estate and Investments, cautions: “I don’t believe in the philosophy that buying now and refinancing later is the best course of action. We’re still not sure of the direction of the housing market, including both property values and interest rates. The problem with this particular philosophy is that buying now and hoping that interest rates go down to make your payment better is bad financial planning. If you can’t really afford the payment now, you’ll be overpaying while you wait and hope for interest rates to drop.”
For existing homeowners, the decision to buy now and refinance later, or wait until mortgage rates fall, may come down to your existing home’s mortgage rate. “In general, I’d suggest not selling or refinancing your home if the rates are higher than your existing mortgage, especially if you want to purchase a new house,” advises Michael Gifford, CEO and co-founder at Splitero.
Check your mortgage refinancing rates here to learn more.
The bottom line
If you’ve decided to take out a mortgage now, but have concerns about locking yourself into a high rate, consider getting a mortgage with a float-down option. This feature allows you to lock in your interest rate while also allowing you to take advantage of a lower rate within a specific period.
Not sure whether to buy a home now and refinance it later, or wait for mortgage rates to drop? It may help to know there are other alternatives worth considering. One option is to make improvements to your home using funds from a home equity loan or home equity line of credit (HELOC). Tapping into your home equity to upgrade your property may increase its value.
Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This may influence which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations.
A cashier’s check is a guaranteed payment method issued by a bank on behalf of an account holder. It ensures the funds are available and provides added security against fraud or insufficient funds.
If you’re about to spend a significant sum of money—say for a down payment on a new car or your closing costs on your first house—there’s a chance you’ll be required to provide a cashier’s check.
If you’ve never heard of or used a cashier’s check, you may wonder why you can’t just write a check from your personal checking account to handle the transaction. After all, they’ve already approved you for this transaction, so what gives?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the concept of a cashier’s check, its importance in different situations, how to obtain one, associated costs, alternatives, and much more. Let’s dig in.
In This Piece:
What Is a Cashier’s Check?
Why Would I Need a Cashier’s Check?
Pros and Cons of Cashier’s Checks
Where to Get a Cashier’s Check
How to Get a Cashier’s Check
How Much Does a Cashier’s Check Cost?
Can I Buy a Cashier’s Check with My Credit Card?
How Long Is a Cashier’s Check Good For?
Cashier’s Check Alternatives
Cashier’s Check vs. Money Order vs. Certified Check
What Happens If I Lose My Cashier’s Check?
What Is a Cashier’s Check?
A cashier’s check is a check written by your bank or another bank on your behalf and is guaranteed by the bank. It offers the advantage of guaranteed funds and additional security features, making it a preferred choice for large transactions. Unlike personal checks, you cannot return cashier’s checks for insufficient funds.
How does the cashier’s check work? First, the bank removes the funds from your account or accepts cash or a personal check. The bank then writes a check for the same amount to the recipient of your choice. The bank typically charges a small fee for providing a cashier’s check. These checks also have extra security features, like watermarks, color-shifting ink, and security thread, that make them difficult to counterfeit or commit fraud against and protect personal information.
Why Would I Need a Cashier’s Check?
Cashier’s checks are essential in many situations where guaranteed funds are required. For example, when making a large purchase, such as a car or a house, sellers often prefer cashier’s checks to ensure the payment is valid and secure. Cashier’s checks are also commonly used in real estate transactions, debt settlements, and other scenarios where trust and security are essential.
Pros and Cons of Cashier’s Checks
Cashier checks offer several advantages, including guaranteed funds, increased security, and broader acceptance. They are widely recognized and trusted by institutions. However, there are also some drawbacks to consider, such as associated fees and the need to visit a bank in person to obtain one.
Let’s look at the pros and cons of cashier’s checks.
Pros of Cashier’s Checks:
Guaranteed funds: Offer more assurance than personal checks since the bank backs them. The funds are guaranteed, ensuring that the recipient will receive the payment.
Enhanced security: Typically come with additional security features, such as watermarks, holograms, or special paper, making them difficult to counterfeit, which provides an added layer of protection against fraud.
Widely received: Commonly accepted by individuals, businesses, and institutions, preferably for transactions involving large amounts of money, such as real estate purchases or vehicle sales.
Faster processing: Usually processed more quickly than personal checks since they are already verified and guaranteed by the bank. This can be beneficial when time is of the essence in completing a transaction.
Record of payment: They provide a clear paper trail and proof of payment, which can be useful for record-keeping purposes or in case of any disputes or legal matters.
Cons of Cashier’s Checks:
Cost: One of the main drawbacks of cashier’s checks is the associated cost. Banks typically charge a fee for issuing a cashier’s check, ranging from a few dollars to a percentage of the check amount. This fee adds to the overall expense of the transaction.
Inconvenience: Obtaining a cashier’s check may require visiting the bank during business hours, which can be inconvenient, especially if the bank is not easily accessible. This can be a drawback for individuals who prefer more convenient digital payment methods.
Loss: Like any physical document, it can be lost or stolen. If a cashier’s check goes missing, replacing it can be time-consuming and may involve additional fees or requirements from the issuing bank.
Limitation: While cashier’s checks are suitable for large transactions, they may limit the maximum amount you can write on them. This can be a disadvantage if you need to make a payment exceeding the limit set by the issuing bank.
Inflexible: Once a cashier’s check is issued, it is generally non-negotiable. Unlike personal checks, they cannot be canceled or modified. This lack of flexibility can be a disadvantage if any changes or adjustments need to be made to the payment after the check is issued.
Considering these pros and cons is essential when deciding whether to use a cashier’s check for a specific transaction. Assess your needs, the transaction’s requirements, and the associated costs to make an informed decision.
Where to Get a Cashier’s Check
Obtaining a cashier’s check is relatively straightforward. Nearly every banking institution offers this service. You can inquire with your bank whether you can request a cashier’s check by phone or if you need to visit your local branch.
Generally, you can purchase a cashier’s check directly from a branch office. Inform the teller of the desired amount, and they will confirm the availability of funds in your account. The check amount may be frozen in your account until it clears or withdrawn immediately.
How to Get a Cashier’s Check
Typically, obtaining a cashier’s check requires you to physically go to the bank. You’ll also need to show your ID and give them the name of the person or company to whom you want to write a check. Some banks may also require a payee address or phone number, so either call ahead to confirm or have that information on hand before going to the banks.
Follow these steps and tips to get a cashier’s check:
Contact your bank and gather the required documents
Start by contacting your bank to inquire about their process for obtaining a cashier’s check. You can call their customer service or visit the bank’s website to find out if they offer cashier’s checks and if you need to visit a branch in person.
In most cases, you’ll need to go to your local bank branch to purchase a cashier’s check. Bringing all the necessary documents and information with you is a good idea to make the process smoother.
When you arrive at the bank branch, approach the teller and tell them you need a cashier’s check. Provide them with the recipient’s name and the amount you want the check to be issued.
Confirm sufficient funds and pay the required fee
The teller will verify that you have sufficient funds in your account to cover the amount of the cashier’s check. They may ask you to deposit the necessary funds into your account if you haven’t already done so.
A fee is usually associated with obtaining a cashier’s check, which varies from bank to bank. The teller will inform you of the fee amount and request payment. Be prepared to pay the fee in cash or deduct it from your account.
In some cases, the teller may ask for additional information, such as the purpose of the cashier’s check or any special instructions you have for the recipient. Provide these details as requested.
Receive the cashier’s check
Once you complete all the necessary steps, the teller will generate the cashier’s check. Double-check the details on the check, including the recipient’s name, the amount, and any additional information.
Keeping the receipt is recommendable. The teller may provide you with a receipt for the transaction. Keeping this receipt for your records is essential, as it serves as proof of purchase and can be helpful if any issues arise.
The specific steps and requirements for obtaining a cashier’s check may vary slightly depending on the bank or financial institution you’re dealing with. It’s always a good idea to check with your bank for their specific process and any additional instructions they may have.
Remember, having all the necessary documents, identification, and funds is crucial to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience when obtaining a cashier’s check.
How Much Does a Cashier’s Check Cost?
The cost of a cashier’s check varies from tens of dollars to a percentage of the check amount, depending on the bank. Typically, banks charge a small fee for providing this service. It is advisable to check with your bank beforehand to understand the exact cost of obtaining a cashier’s check.
Can I Buy a Cashier’s Check with My Credit Card?
Typically, you can’t buy a cashier’s check directly with a credit card. However, suppose you don’t have sufficient funds in your checking or savings account. Then, you can consider taking a cash advance on your credit card, depositing those funds into your bank account, and purchasing a cashier’s check.
Remember that cash advances often come with higher-than-usual interest rates, so promptly paying off the balance is essential to avoid accruing excessive interest.
How Long Is a Cashier’s Check Good For?
Cashier’s checks typically do not expire, but the issuing bank may have its policies regarding the validity period. As previously noted, checking with your bank for specific procedures, like how long their cashier’s checks are valid, is always a good idea.
Cashier’s Check Alternatives
What if you can’t get a cashier’s check? If obtaining a cashier’s check is not feasible for your situation, alternative payment methods are available. Here’s a list of alternative approaches:
Money orders are prepaid instruments issued by various organizations such as post offices, banks, and retail stores.
Certified checks are personal checks verified and guaranteed by the issuing bank. The bank sets aside the funds in the account and ensures that the check will clear when presented for payment.
Wire transfers allow you to transfer funds from one bank account to another electronically. You can use this method for larger transactions and international transfers.
Online payment services, such as PayPal, Venmo, and Zelle, offer a convenient way to send money electronically. These services allow you to transfer funds directly from your bank account or credit card to the recipient.
Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) is a secure and efficient way to transfer funds between bank accounts. You can use it for recurring payments, such as direct deposits or automatic bill payments.
Personal checks are a good alternative, especially for smaller transactions. However, they may not provide the same level of assurance to the recipient since they rely on the funds being available in the payer’s account.
Cash may be an acceptable alternative for smaller amounts and transactions between trusted parties.
Remember, it’s essential to assess the specific requirements of your transaction and consider the level of security and acceptance needed before choosing an alternative to a cashier’s check.
Cashier’s Check vs. Money Order vs. Certified Check
Money orders and certified checks are the alternatives to cashier’s checks with more similarities and popularity. They are constantly compared to each other and often bring confusion due to their resemblances. Let’s look at how they compare so you can make informed decisions in the future.
Money orders have typically limited funds, often up to only a few thousand dollars. On the other hand, cashier’s checks can be written for larger sums, making them suitable for high-value transactions. Additionally, cashier’s checks provide an added layer of security as a specific bank guarantees them.
Certified checks are personal checks the bank has verified, marking them “certified.” Cashier’s checks, on the other hand, are written by the bank on your behalf. Both checks offer a guaranteed level, but cashier’s checks are often preferred for more significant transactions due to their wider acceptance and added security.
What Happens If I Lose My Cashier’s Check?
If you lose your cashier’s check before it gets to its rightful recipient, the issuing bank could require that you be bonded for the amount of the lost check before they cut another. This bond, known as an indemnity bond, essentially means that you are liable for the replacement check.
In conclusion, cashier’s checks are a reliable and secure payment method for various transactions. Their guaranteed funds and additional security features provide peace of mind to both buyers and sellers. If you need to make a large payment, consider obtaining a cashier’s check from your bank to ensure a smooth and trustworthy transaction.
For more information on how cashier’s checks work or if you need help finding the right credit card to improve your financial well-being, contact experts.
American Express is notoriously secretive about the details of the Centurion Black Card. For many years, the company didn’t acknowledge the existence of the Black Card. And there’s some evidence that the card became a part of pop culture lore before becoming an actual product.
But today, the Centurion Card very much exists as a product for a select group of high net worth individuals willing to shell out a generous sum of money to carry perhaps the most exclusive credit card out there.
Here are 10 things we know about the AmEx Centurion Card.
1. The Centurion Black Card is invitation-only
You don’t get the Centurion Card by applying for it.
If you want to join the exclusive club of cardholders who carry the Centurion Black Card, you must get an invitation from AmEx. And a Centurion Card invitation isn’t something AmEx hands out lightly. While AmEx services over 100 million cardholders, there are estimates that AmEx only has 100,000 Centurion cardholders worldwide.
2. It will cost you $10,000 to get one
The Centurion Card carries a hefty initiation fee. Reports vary, but the most recent information is that AmEx charges $10,000 to become a Centurion member.
You might think paying a five-figure fee would be enough to grant you a lifetime of benefits, but not with the Centurion Card.
If you want to keep the card, you’ll have to shell out $5,000 per year. And that annual fee is not waived in the first year.
3. You can request a Centurion Card invite online
While the Centurion Black Card is invite-only, it is possible to request an invitation online. You must have an AmEx card to make the request. AmEx also clearly states that an invitation request does not mean you will receive an invitation.
4. You need to be a big spender to get a Centurion Black Card
It is widely accepted that you need to be a big spender for AmEx to give you a Centurion Card.
Reports on the internet range from requiring $250,000 to over a million dollars of annual spending. AmEx has not confirmed any specific spending requirements, and there’s no known threshold at which Platinum cardmembers receive an invitation.
While the exact amount you need to spend on your cards is a matter of speculation, you probably need to spend at least six figures annually on an AmEx card to get a Centurion Card.
5. Centurion Cardmembers still get to bring guests into the Centurion lounge
Centurion cardmembers didn’t suffer this cut and still retain expanded access. Centurion cardmembers may bring in two guests or immediate family members. Eligible immediate family members include a spouse, a domestic partner and children under 18.
6. The Centurion Black Card offers an unbelievable level of concierge service
For the multimillionaires and billionaires who carry the AmEx Centurion Card, probably the most helpful benefit is the Centurion concierge.
The concierge service offered on The Platinum Card® from American Express is limited to helping with travel reservations, getting event tickets, making restaurant reservations and fulfilling shopping requests. The concierge service offered by the Centurion Card offers seemingly unlimited service.
Centurion cardholders report using the Centurion concierge for things you might expect. One cardholder says that his concierge makes travel bookings considering his seat preferences based on the airline cabin configuration. His concierge also contacts hotels to inform them of the cardmember’s arrival time.
But Centurion concierges have also handled requests such as arranging elaborate tours, getting front-row tickets for in-demand concerts, locating personal items lost during travel and even arranging emergency evacuations.
For someone who might not have a full-time personal assistant, the Centurion concierge can offer an alternative.
Like many other things about the Centurion Black Card, the card’s perks are shrouded in secrecy. AmEx doesn’t provide much information about the card on its website and most reports about the card’s perks are based on third-hand accounts and speculation.
However, we have confirmed a partial list of benefits offered to Centurion cardmembers. Here are some of these exclusive benefits:
An auto program that allows cardmembers to anonymously negotiate prices on luxury automobile purchases through a members-only website.
Global chef partnerships, which grant access to daily table reservations at fine dining restaurants around the world.
Exclusive seating in ticket blocks reserved for Centurion cardholders at many major events worldwide.
Various onboard credits, excursion credits and vouchers are available exclusively to Centurion cardmembers through Centurion Cruise Partners.
Private jet arrangements can be made for Centurion cardholders through the AmEx Private Jet program.
8. Yes, you can buy a mansion or a private jet on a Centurion Card
Like many aspects of the Centurion Black Card, the card’s purchasing power has been the subject of much speculation. The card offers no preset limit, but how far does that go? While there are no credible reports of someone buying a Gulfstream or even a Cessna Citation (private jet) with a Centurion Card, the card has been used for some substantial purchases.
In 2015, The New York Times reported that Chinese billionaire Liu Yiqian purchased a Modigliani painting at Christie’s auction house in New York. The price? $170.4 million. If you can put a $170 million painting on an AmEx card, why not a jet or a mansion?
9. You can get many of the Centurion Card’s perks from The Platinum Card® from American Express
Many of the perks offered by the AmEx Centurion Card can be had with The Platinum Card® from American Express, a card that carries a much more affordable $695 annual fee compared to its counterpart. Here are some of the perks that the Centurion Card shares with The Platinum Card® from American Express:
The Global Lounge Collection grants access to 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries.
The AmEx International Airline Program offers preferred airfares with participating airlines.
Presale ticket access.
And just like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the Centurion Card earns Membership Rewards, which can be transferred to any of AmEx’s transfer partners.
Terms apply.
10. You can get better rewards on many other cards
The AmEx Centurion Card isn’t the card to get if you want to earn the maximum rewards on your spending. And even if it were, you’d have to chase a lot of category spending to compensate for the card’s annual fee.
If you’re looking for generous rewards on your spending, consider a card that earns 2% cash back on all purchases. Many of these cards have no annual fee.
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2023, including those best for:
If you live in a typical American household, 66% of which own a pet, you know the many benefits of being a pet parent. Pets provide companionship, reduce stress and even improve your health. Pet owners, especially those with dogs, are more likely to get outside and take a stroll through the park. So what could be the down side?
Although the benefits outweigh the costs, pets are expensive. It’s important to take a close look at the financial side of pet ownership before you add a new member to the family. Even if you’ve considered the adoption fee and supplies, the ongoing costs of food, grooming, and routine vet bills add up.
If you’re financially savvy, you may have looked into ways to save on pet food or perform at-home pet pedicures, but veterinary visits can add up. Scheduling routine physicals and keeping up to date on vaccines is the best preventative measure against future health conditions that may be costly to treat. Emergency medical care can leave even the most prepared pet owner in a mountain of debt. Or in the worst cases, economic euthanasia—a heartbreaking decision for any family.
Most people agree that the unconditional love of a pet is worth any amount of money. Still, preparing for the true cost of pet ownership can help you plan your budget. Pets become a part of the family, and making sure you can afford one can help you avoid tough decisions down the road. Fortunately, if you plan ahead, you can maintain the health of your pet and your finances.
Cost of Owning a Dog
Based on the average life span of 12 years, the lifetime cost of owning a dog can range from $20,000 to over $55,000. Studies show about half of all pet owners underestimate the cost of raising a pet. Before purchasing a dog, it’s important to understand both the initial cost of bringing a dog into your home and the ongoing annual expenses of raising a dog.
Note: Expenses and costs are possible ranges
One-Time Expenses
Aside from emergency care, most major expenses occur in the first year. New pet owners can expect to shell out nearly $400 for the bare necessities alone. Depending on the specific breed and size of dog, these costs could range well over $2,000. Below is a look at some initial costs you can expect to incur.
Adoption fee/cost: $0 to $700—can be higher depending on breed
Food and water bowls: $10 to $100
Spaying or neutering: $200 to $800
Initial medical exam and vaccines: $70 to $300
Collar, tags, and leash: $25 to $60
Bed and crate: $35 to $250
Carrying crate: $60 to $150
Microchipping: $20
Total one-time expenses: $420 to $2,180
In some cases, puppies can be more expensive than healthy adult dogs, since they need more shots and veterinary procedures. They may also require obedience training due to their boundless energy and tendency to chew on household items.
Annual Expenses
How much do dogs cost per year? According to the ASPCA, the average pet owner spends nearly $1,400 annually on their furry pal. However, other sources put this number much higher.
Below is a look at some of the expenses you can expect to incur every year you have a dog. If you have multiple dogs, these costs will be a lot more.
Food: $200 to $700
Vaccines and routine care: $200 to $500
Heartworm and flea prevention: $175 to $200
Vitamins: $58
License: $15
Treats and chew toys: $100 to $300
Grooming supplies: $25 to $75
Total average cost of owning a dog per year: $773 to $1,848
In addition to the basics, such as food and veterinary care, other routine and unexpected expenses will arise. You’ll also need to consider pet-related costs that come along with life events, such as travel and moving. For instance, many apartments charge a pet deposit. You also may need to pay additional cleaning fees.
Professional grooming: $200 to $400
Training: $100 to $400 per hour
Boarding and travel fees: $25/day
Accessories: $0 to $500
Pet health insurance: $225 to $516 annually
While raising your dog is a significant investment, most pet owners feel it’s money well spent. After all, you get paid back with unconditional love and affection.
Cost of Owning a Cat
Cats may be less expensive to own than dogs, but even these lower-maintenance creatures can put a dent in your bank account. For one reason, cats tend to live longer than dogs—they have a life span of about 15 years. Additionally, 44% of cat owners have more than one cat, compared to just 35% of dog owners. The average lifetime cost of owning a cat can range from $12,000 to $26,000.
The biggest factor affecting the life span and total expenses of a cat is whether it lives indoors or outdoors. An outdoor cat has a much shorter life span—only five years on average—and is at greater risk of injury from other animals, traffic, and diseases. If you plan to let your cat outdoors, lower your financial risk by vaccinating against diseases and purchasing pet insurance to cover potential injuries.
You also want to ensure it’s not illegal to let your cat roam outside in your area. If your beloved cat ends up at animal control, you’ll have to pay a fee to get it back.
One-Time Expenses
As with dogs, the initial expenses of cat ownership are the highest. You can expect to pay up to $1,000 when buying a cat.
Adoption fee/cost: $0 to $300—can be higher depending on breed
Food and water bowls: $5 to $30
Spaying or neutering: $145 to $200
Initial medical exam: $130 to $175
Collar or leash: $10 to $20
Litter box: $10 to $50
Cat bed: $20 to $100
Carrying crate: $35 to $70
Microchipping: $20
Total one-time expenses: $355 to $965
Annual Expenses
Of course, cats aren’t always predictable. You may have a certain cat food in mind—one that fits your budget—but that doesn’t mean your cat will like it. Cats can also be particular about the type of litter they use. Still, the following ranges give you an idea of what to expect in the years ahead.
Food: $200 to $500
Medical care and vaccines: $200 to $550
Flea and tick prevention: $140 to $200
Treats: $35 to $100
Litter: $150 to $200
Toys and scratching post: $20 to $100
License: $15
Grooming supplies: $28
Total annual cost to own a cat: $788 to $1,693
Cats have a penchant for knocking things off tables, and they don’t differentiate between empty toilet paper rolls and expensive vases. Additionally, they have sharp claws, and if you don’t give them someplace to scratch, they may turn your furniture into a shredding post. This is all to say you may want to set aside money for miscellaneous expenses.
Here are some other extras you may want to consider:
Pet health insurance: $175 to $350 per year
Accessories: $0 to $300
Pet sitting or boarding: $25/day
Ways to Save Money on Your Furry Pet
Pet costs can quickly get out of hand if you’re not careful. Fortunately, you can do several things to save money on care for your pets.
Spay or Neuter
Unless you’re a breeder, having your pet spayed or neutered should be one of your top priorities. Not only can this step help you save money in the long run, but it can also prevent unwanted litters of puppies or kittens.
Set a Budget
Setting a budget for your pet expenses can help you avoid spending too much on unnecessary purchases. Start by tracking how much you spend per month on pet care expenses. Use this information to set your budget for these costs.
Buy in Bulk
You can save a significant amount of money throughout the year by purchasing your pet food and treats in bulk. With proper storage, many types of pet food have a shelf life of up to 18 months.
Preventive Care
The best way to keep your pet’s medical expenses down is to invest in preventive care. Scheduling regular checkups, including dental care, and ensuring your pet is up to date on all necessary shots, including heartworm and vaccines against fleas and ticks, can avoid costly medical charges later.
Groom at Home
Instead of paying anywhere from $200 to $400 for professional grooming services, you can groom your pet at home. Once you purchase the original supplies, which can cost around $50, you can groom your pet at home for significantly less money.
Cash-Back Rewards and Loyalty Programs
Consider purchasing your pet supplies using a cash-back rewards credit card. This step can help you save money by earning cash back on your everyday purchases.
Should You Buy Pet Insurance to Cover Pet Costs?
One step that can make the cost of pet ownership more affordable is pet insurance. The right insurance plan can help cover some of your pet’s medical expenses. This, in turn, can reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
Pet insurance can also give you peace of mind knowing that if your pet requires unexpected medical care, some costs may be covered. It’s important to realize not all pet insurance policies are alike. Be sure to carefully read the benefits and exclusions for each policy to ensure you select the one that’s right for your situation.
Prepare for the Unexpected
Emergency Vet Expenses
When you bring home your new fur baby, the last thing you want to think about is a tragedy or major illness hitting them, but it’s important to be prepared. Even if you establish healthy habits such as regular exercise, you should plan ahead for unexpected veterinary bills.
Once you become a pet parent, you may find that you’ll do anything for your canine or feline companion, even risking your credit to save their lives. While many pet owners feel that their pet’s well-being is worth the necessary sacrifices, setting aside money for a rainy day can help deflect some of the costs of an emergency procedure or unexpected illness.
Pet Insurance
Putting money aside for unexpected pet expenses is a good idea, but it’s difficult to save enough to cover a major medical bill—especially if you’re paying off existing debt at the same time. A diagnostic procedure alone can cost up to $2,000. And common medical conditions, such as orthopedic surgery or removing a foreign body can cost $7,000. If your pet has a chronic condition requiring regular follow-up visits or medications, your pet could rack up tens of thousands of dollars in medical expenses.
Rather than set yourself up to be forced to decide between your financial health and your pet’s health, plan for the worst by taking out pet insurance. With ongoing expenses adding up, it’s tempting to cut corners by skipping pet insurance, but the peace of mind it will give you is invaluable.
Tips for Budgeting for a Pet
Advance planning, such as signing up for health insurance or contributing to a savings account with your pet in mind, can help keep you out of financial water. But there are other ways to make pet ownership affordable and keep costs down.
Consider whether you’re willing to cut back in other areas
Being a responsible pet owner requires sacrifices of your time and sometimes, your finances. You may need to reconsider your morning latte once you’re splurging on treats for your new best friend.
It takes a village
Pet sitting or boarding can cost you $15 to $60 a day, but asking for help from friends and neighbors can save you money, even if you offer to pay for their time.
Search out low-cost clinics for routine pet care
Animal welfare organizations often offer low-cost vaccinations, spaying, and neutering, saving you money both now and in the long run by helping prevent costly medical conditions. Check with your local humane society or local pet rescue groups to get more information.
Avoid Pet Debt
Prevention can be the most effective tool for avoiding surprise pet costs. Regular exams help detect problems earlier making them less expensive and more likely to have a positive outcome. For example, spaying/neutering your pets reduces their risk of certain cancers.
If you can’t afford an expensive but necessary medical procedure, you may be able to get financial assistance from veterinary medical colleges or non-profit organizations. The American Veterinary Medical Association has a list of organizations that offer aid to pet owners with financial needs. This list is by no means comprehensive, so if you don’t find an option there, keep looking.
Credit Cards for Pet Owners
While you don’t want to rely on credit cards alone to cover the cost of owning a pet, choosing the right card can help you earn cash back and rewards points on pet-related purchases you’re already making. Some even offer 0% financing, which is useful for transferring a hefty vet bill from an existing card to a new one. Depending on whether you plan to use the card for pet purchases alone or everyday spending will help you determine which card is best for you.
If you’re considering bringing a furry friend home, make sure your credit is in good standing first. A credit card that rewards pet purchases can make it more affordable to own a pet. You’ll want to check your credit scores to know where your credit stands before you apply, so you can reduce the risk of a rejected application and come up with a plan to work your way toward better credit if necessary.
From its low crime and safety to beautiful landscapes, New Hampshire frequently tops the charts as one of the best states to call home. This picturesque state in the New England region gets high marks for its quality of life and good cost of living.
Even though its biggest city has a population of just over 115,000, New Hampshire’s small and mid-sized cities are bonafide centers for art, culture, dining and business. The state is also a siren call to nature lovers, with massive forests and a quaint coastline.
While New England is generally an expensive area to live in, New Hampshire’s cost of living isn’t too bad. It’s one of the more reasonably-priced states in the region. While most costs like housing and groceries are above the national average, they’re not astronomically high. Looking at how the cost of living varies in different cities around the state, you can find the right place for you to live. Let’s dive into what to expect in terms of the cost of living in New Hampshire.
New Hampshire housing prices
The cost of housing in most New Hampshire cities and towns is higher than the national average. This is especially true of major cities like Manchester, Nashua and Concord.
Housing costs in Manchester run 12.9 percent above the national average. Rents here are also on the rise. The cost for one-bedroom apartments is up 9 percent from last year to $1,584. Two-bedroom apartments are up 28 percent to $1,855.
Manchester’s housing market is also up 15.2 percent from last year. The median sale price for a home here is $386,000. For reference, the national median sale price for a house is $430,982.
In Concord, the state capital and a popular college town, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,245. In Nashua, the second-most-populous city in the state, the average one-bedroom rent is $1,725. Of New Hampshire’s three most populous cities, Concord has the lowest average rent. If you’re priced out of these cities, don’t worry. Smaller towns nearby likely have more affordable options.
New Hampshire food prices
Living in New Hampshire means getting to enjoy classic New England flavors, dishes and foods like maple syrup, apple cider donuts and seasonal produce like apples. New Hampshire cuisine is also a richly diverse melting pot of different cuisines from Indigenous and immigrant communities. Comprised of corned beef, potatoes and other root vegetables, boiled dinner is one quintessential New Hampshire dish.
Food costs in some New England states are high. But that’s not really the case for New Hampshire. Average grocery costs here are 0.3 percent below the national average. In terms of monthly food spending, New Hampshire residents are pretty middle-of-the-road. The average New Hampshire local spends between $266 and $300 on food each month. Annually, that comes out to between $3,201 and $3,6000.
Manchester’s food costs are a bit higher at 9.1 percent above the national average, as well as the statewide average. To put that figure in perspective, here’s roughly what you’ll pay for some basic and common grocery items. A half-gallon of milk is $2.53. Buying a dozen eggs will set you back $2.07. The price of steak is pretty high at $19.10.
New Hampshire utility prices
You’ll be paying more than the national average for utilities like water, electricity and internet in New Hampshire.
The state gets the majority of its electricity from nuclear power. The rest comes from a mix of natural gas and renewables like hydropower and biomass. The state’s water comes from rivers, lakes and wells. For these and other essential utilities, you’ll pay 16.3 percent above the national average.
Living in Manchester, your total monthly energy bills come out to around $228.73.
New Hampshire transportation prices
Transportation costs in New Hampshire are some of the lowest cost of living expenses in relation to the national average. As a smaller state, most cities and towns around New Hampshire have mass transit options of some sort. In many cities, bus systems offer connections to other nearby cities and towns, as well. There are 12 different bus systems around the state, with the most extensive being in Manchester. Transportation costs in Manchester are 3.9 percent above the national average.
There are many benefits to using public transportation in your city and state. If you live in a big city and commute to work, it saves on gas money and vehicle expenses. It’s also more environmentally friendly and can cut down on traffic congestion. Let’s take a closer look at Manchester’s mass transit options and their costs.
MTA in Manchester
With 16 bus routes and 357 stops, the Manchester Transit Authority provides public transportation and paratransit services to the city of Manchester. It also has commuter connections to nearby towns like Concord and Nashua. Their fleet consists of eco-friendly hybrid-electric and fuel-efficient buses. The Green DASH provides free shuttle service around the downtown area, as well.
On MTA buses, one-way rides on fixed routes around Manchester are $2. Weekly passes cost $20 and a monthly pass is $60. Discounts are available for the elderly, those with disabilities and students. If you use the commuting routes to Concord or Nashua, day passes are $5.
The 44-mile Everett Turnpike or Central New Hampshire Turnpike runs through Manchester. You’ll pay $1.40 with E-ZPass for 2-axle cars and $2 in cash.
With its compact city center and safe streets, pedestrians and cyclists will also find it easy to get around town. Manchester has a good walk score of 59, meaning that the city is fairly walk-friendly. Its bike score is slightly lower at 46. Between buses, walking and bikes, there are all kinds of ways to get around Manchester on the cheap. The presence of intercity commuter buses also provides essential links between cities and towns.
New Hampshire healthcare prices
Since some people pay more for healthcare due to pre-existing health conditions or expensive prescriptions, it’s difficult to get an accurate average price for healthcare. That being said, overall New Hampshire has higher-than-average healthcare costs. You’ll pay roughly $171.43 for a visit to the doctor’s office in the state’s most populous city.
In Vermont, a doctor’s visit costs around $126.63. In Portland, ME, it costs $143 to see the doctor. Regionally, this makes New Hampshire one of the more costly places for healthcare. Compared to the national average, Manchester is 24.1 percent above.
Going to the dentist also comes with a high price tag of $144.71. Even though healthcare costs are high, you’re paying for top-quality care. New Hampshire ranks 13th in the country for healthcare quality, access and overall public health. New Hampshire is also one of the healthiest states in the nation, with a very high quality of life. Hopefully, that means a high healthcare bill comes with a clean, long-lasting bill of health.
New Hampshire goods and services prices
The cost of goods and services in New Hampshire is 29.6 percent above the national average. Be prepared to pay out a bit more than the rest of the country for basic items and services here. Going to get your haircut will set you back $29.43. In comparison, a haircut in the city of Burlington in neighboring Vermont costs $24. Movie tickets are pretty pricey at $14.67 a pop. Picking up a pizza costs $11.33 here compared to $9.99 in Burlington.
Taxes in New Hampshire
New Hampshire is one of 5 states that doesn’t have a sales tax, along with Oregon, Alaska, Delaware and Montana. That means you don’t have to pay any sales tax on goods you purchase here. For example, if you spend $1,000 to stock up on delicious New Hampshire maple syrup, you’ll pay $0 in sales tax. Similarly, counties and cities in New Hampshire don’t levy any local sales taxes.
New Hampshire also doesn’t levy state income taxes on wages and salaries. Interest and dividend income is a 5 percent rate for individuals. These lenient taxes make New Hampshire a popular place for retirees and people who enjoy lower taxes.
How much do I need to earn to live in New Hampshire?
Just because the cost of living in New Hampshire is higher than the national average doesn’t mean you have to write the state off. There’s a wide range of places to live around New Hampshire that fit different income levels and budgets, so you’re likely to find a place that works for you. It’s recommended that you only spend 30 percent of your gross monthly income on rent.
The average rent in Manchester is $1,576. That means that you need to make at least $5,253 monthly or $63,036 annually to follow the 30 percent rule.
If Manchester is too expensive, there are likely other cities around the state that fit your budget. Since Concord’s average rent is $1,245, you’d only need to make $49,800 a year. That comes out to $4,150 a month.
New Hampshire also has a high median household income of $77,923, so most households can follow the 30 percent rule.
You can use our rent calculator to figure out which New Hampshire cities and towns fit your budget.
Living in New Hampshire
While the overall cost of living in New Hampshire is above the national average, most prices are reasonable and manageable, especially given the state’s high median household income. So, even if prices are higher, higher incomes should offset it. Plus, no income and sales tax lets you stretch your budget even more. All in all, New Hampshire is a great New England state to live in for access to nature, art, food and good quality of living.
The Cost of Living Index comes from coli.org.
The rent information included in this summary is based on a calculation of multifamily rental property inventory on Rent. as of August 2022.
Rent prices are for illustrative purposes only. This information does not constitute a pricing guarantee or financial advice related to the rental market.
Zoe Baillargeon is an award-winning writer and journalist based in Portland, Oregon, where she covers a variety of beats including travel, food and drink, lifestyle and culture for outlets like Apartment Guide, Rent., AFAR.com, Fodor’s, The Manual, Matador Network and more. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, hiking, reading and spoiling her cat.
Have you ever recognized benign habits that you wish you could give up, but they seem pretty harmless? You’re not alone. Many of us have compulsions, addictions, and unhealthy habits that can affect every aspect of our lives—and they’re often overlooked due to their subtle nature. From eating too much sugar or ice cream to checking one’s social media notifications several times a day, the need for instant gratification has taken its toll on society today, leading many people down an unhealthy path without even noticing it.
In this blog post, we’ll be exploring the top 13 addictions and habits that everyone should be aware. If you’ve been looking for ways to make positive changes in your life and reduce stress, then dive into this comprehensive list!
1. Checking the News
One Redditor shared, “NEWS addiction.”
Another replied, “People get addicted to the cortisol hit from getting outraged, so a lot of news outlets realize they just need to keep the cortisol flowing. Edit: Per comments, I changed ‘dopamine’ to ‘cortisol’.”
One commenter added, “It’s neurologically a very similar addiction to gambling. In both cases, it’s less about getting something positive and more about getting something negative and then feeling they have to cancel or counterbalance the negative with a positive… that always seems just out of reach but never seems to come. So they dig themselves a hole of negativity.”
Another user posted, “A few years ago, I realized it was taking a toll on me. The first thing I’d do when I got up was check the news, then periodically check it throughout the day, and it was frequently the last thing I did before falling asleep. So, I just decided I have to check it maybe once or twice to stay informed, but that’s it. I even hid political subreddits, so I won’t see them unless I actively go to them.
“There’s just no reason to be glued to the news all day long. That much anger or depression or whatever is no good for your mental well-being, and it’s very rare that something is going on in the world where you need hourly updates. I think most people would be a lot happier if they cut back on gorging on news and politics.”
“YES! Absolutely. Especially the doom-scrolling and sensationalized side of things. I’ve just written a much longer comment about this, but it creates a physical dopamine dependency and changes habits,” replied another user.
2. Justified Outrage
One user posted, “Outrage is an addiction. Some people seek it out, actively searching for a reason to hate their neighbors just so they can get their hit of dopamine. It feeds news addiction, tribalism, and eventually extremism. It’s the source of so much violence, so many divided houses and ruined lives, but we do nothing to curb it.”
“I remember my uncle, who had a history of domestic violence to my aunt before she passed of cancer, told the family he has an anger problem. My dad said, ‘But you’re able to keep it together every time a cop is around.’ The look on his face and the dead silence… An anger issue is not an excuse,” another replied.
One commenter added, “My Dad was always going on violent outbursts, literally every day. Remember a few times their doorbell would ring, and he’d flip to being charming in a split second. It’d be salespeople, charity collectors, and even Mormons. He was always extremely polite, and they probably saw him as one of the most pleasant people he encountered. Pure sociopathy.”
3. Shopping
“Shopping,” one user posted.
Another user replied, “I just got back this month after being in rehab for 2 months for weed, alcohol, and [other drugs], and at my therapy, they asked me if I noticed any cross addictions. I told my therapist I think I have a shopping addiction, and she told me it’s a common addiction that goes unnoticed way too many times.”
One user confirmed, “My hoarder mother 1000% has a shopping addiction.”
Another Redditor said, “My MIL is a hoarder, and it is ridiculous; she has 3 storage units (one she’s had for 20+ years), her home, and my husband’s grandmother’s garage full of her sh-t. We have tried to help clean out the garage, but MIL always has to be there when we try and has to go through every single box/bag/etc, and physically touch every single item. 9 years and the garage still has not been cleaned out.”
4. Video Games
One online user shared, “I always laughed at the idea of video game addiction. It sounded so overblown until I met a guy who honestly defined it for me. We used to chat and hang out weekly. He quit his job and now just lives at home with his mum, mooching off her to sit in his room and play games for close to 16 hours a day. After refusing to hang out long enough, I just gave up on him.”
Another user exclaimed, “FINALLY, I found someone who mentioned video games. I grew up gaming, I absolutely loved playing them throughout my entire childhood and into adulthood, but I have seen addiction to video games absolutely destroy people. Part of me is glad that I simply don’t have the time to play them much anymore. Maybe an hour or two a week. But I know adults in their 30s and 40s who are still obsessed, to the point of not wanting to do anything else.”
5. Addiction to Phones
“Phone addiction—no explanation needed,” one Redditor shared.
Another user added, “My stomach drops every time I see my daily average screen time. It’s hard to realize how much time you spend scrolling until you actually see the numbers.”
One commenter said, “That’s why I turned screen time off. I don’t need that type of negativity in my life, lmao.”
Another user added, “My phone addiction varies based on my mental health state. I’ve been in a depression that has apparently become a downward spiral, according to my therapist. I’m capable of doing the bare minimum to keep my kid alive, and then I live on my phone the rest of the time. I’m even on it at work. My therapist wants me to be an inpatient, but the idea of not having my phone for even the three-day minimum stay has me freaking out.”
6. Sleeping to Escape
One user shared, “When my depression is terrible, I’d say sleep. It’s a free, safe way to escape but ultimately feeds the depression, becoming a destructive cycle. It doesn’t sound that bad, but it’s consuming. Edit: Some people are confused, so I’ll clarify. It’s not because of a lack of rest. It’s not the sleep itself; it’s the dreaming (aka escape). A different ‘reality’ that feels very real and isn’t this one. Maybe I’m just not explaining it right, but yeah.”
Another user replied, “Thank you for saying this! I was labeled as a typical ‘lazy teenager,’ and it wasn’t till I was in my final year of uni that a friend asked if I was OK and explained oversleeping as a symptom of mental health issues.
“The truth was I was so miserable I just didn’t want to be conscious and experience it. Better to be asleep with a teeny tiny hope that I might feel a bit better when I woke up. I had virtually no awareness of mental health issues then and therefore had no vocabulary to articulate how I felt. I feel sad for that lost time, but at least I can recognize it now for what it was.
“Edit to add: this has, unfortunately, resonated with a few people. Keep your chin up; it can and does get better eventually. Get help from your support network of friends and family and professional help. I hope you feel better soon.”
“Well said. There are days I can sleep 4-5 hours, be productive and alert, and just kill it. Then there are days when I sleep at least 11+ hours and on my phone the other 13 while doing the BARE minimum to skate by, realizing that. Hey! You’re not eating better; the 50ish pounds you lost in 3 months is from depressively not eating. I hate being depressed and all the extra stuff it brings that makes life even harder than it is,” one user responded.
7. Workaholism
One Redditor posted, “Work Addiction—most people will say they dislike working extra, but the responsibility you feel towards your co-workers and the purpose work gives your life can make you work more than you should. Source: addicted to work.”
One added, “I worked for one manager who literally had an addiction to work so bad it was ruining her life. She was a recovering drug addict, and I guess staying busy helped her cope, but she just traded one addiction for another.
“We worked for a corporate retail chain; she would be the first one there and the last one to leave every day, and she never scheduled herself a day off. She would clock herself out when she hit her 40 hrs to avoid getting flak from her management, but she was easily working 110+ hours a week, and more than half of that was unpaid.
“Her family, her ex-husband, and her kids would come by periodically and try to get her to go home, and her entire staff, including me, constantly tried to get her just to go home, but she was afraid the place couldn’t run without her present for even a second. It was really sad because we could all see her obsession with being there was destroying her mentally and physically, as her sleep had to have been horrendously impacted since she was there 15-16 hours a day.
“I spoke with HR about it, and they said they had already been aware of it for some time and that they weren’t going to do anything about it. That incredible amount of incredulity and not giving a shit about the super illegal and dangerous fact that they were letting an employee work for free for 70+ hours a week were obviously huge red flags for me, so that was my last day.
“A couple of years later now, she still works there, and this is still happening.”
8. Addiction to Junk Food
One user shared, “Junk food. Sugar. Soda. I am addicted to these things and wish to break that habit.”
Another confirmed, “I quit smoking quite easily, but I cannot for the life of me quit sugar. So much harder, in.”
“I think I just swapped my after-dinner cigarette for after-dinner chocolate. Doesn’t matter how satisfying the meal was. I still crave some chocolate later,” one user replied.
Another user shared, “Apologies in advance for the unsolicited advice, but your comment hit a chord with me. Is it specifically chocolate you crave? ’cause I used to crave chocolate constantly. It got to the point where I’d buy the cheapest milk chocolate bars from my grocery store and eat a couple of pieces every day, trying to limit how much chocolate I was eating but also trying to stop the constant craving for it.
“Supposedly being low in magnesium can cause chocolate cravings. I figured more magnesium couldn’t hurt, so I started eating more food with magnesium, and the craving went away! I still have a massive sweet tooth, and I love chocolate, but that never-ending chocolate craving has stopped, thank goodness.
“Maybe something to try if it seems relevant to you? I know this is just a very unscientific anecdote; maybe it was something else going on with me that just naturally stopped. Maybe the slight changes in my diet I made solved it in some other way. Who knows!”
9. Social Media
“Social media addiction,” one user responded.
Another user replied, “Including Reddit. Source: Reddit addict.”
“Yup. I spend way too much time on this stupid app,” one user confirmed.
One user commented, “I tell myself I’m learning new stuff every day. Then my wife asks me to tell her something new and interesting I found on Reddit, and I can’t think of a single thing.”
10. Dermatillomania
One Redditor commented, “Skin picking, aka, dermatillomania. It’s so overlooked that our society has glorified it. We have a show called Dr. Pimple Popper! Wtf!”
Another user commented, “I wish I could replace that [terrible] habit somehow.”
One user replied, “Same. I don’t get the Dr. Pimple Popper thing. Mine is picking at any skin that is not smooth on my skin. On the scalp, around my nails, blemishes on my face, arms, and chest. If I have a scab, that will take forever to heal because I do it subconsciously on occasion and even do it at night when I’m asleep, no matter where it is on my ‘pick zones.’ Something in my mind says if I pick it, I may reveal healed areas beneath it… and then it starts all over again once it starts bleeding. Looking at it typed out is really disturbing, tbh. But I’m proud that I stopped picking at my lips!!!”
11. Tribalism
“Tribalism. People become indoctrinated and too engrossed to realize it. People become so addicted they choose to kill over sports, vehicle types, religion(s), politics, etc… and it’s by design. People act less intelligent when they’re a part of a group. (Mob mentality).
“Edited because syntax/grammar police attacked my auto-fill. Proofread everything, kids,” one user shared.
One Redditor replied, “Outrage is the addiction; tribalism is just one of the many crack pipes through which it is consumed. People are seeking Outrage. Tribalism gives a sense of legitimacy to the Outrage.”
12. Nasal Spray Addiction
A user posted, “Nasal spray. There are plenty of other, much worse things I could shove up my nose, but still. I can’t breathe through my nose without it, and I can’t stand that it’s like this.”
One user replied, “I’ve been there! It’s pretty fast to reverse the dependency, though—you can switch to saline or Neti pot for a couple of days to get you over the hump, but I’ve found my nose clears up after 2-3 days without it. 2-3 VERY uncomfortable sleepless days, mind you.”
The OP responded, “I’ll have to give that a shot! Thanks!!”
13. Addiction to the Gym
One of the online users shared, “Gym addiction. It’s the only thing keeping me sane these days. Started because I wanted to gain muscles, now the thought of taking a prolonged rest is quite dreadful.”
Another user replied, “The rest is so true. It’s so difficult to let yourself rest, even if it’s just for a week. Interestingly, sometimes you end up coming out of the rest week stronger than if you’d kept lifting through it, too!”
“This is something I learned while I was a soldier. I struggled at first with my PT tests, so I worked out all the time. Eventually, someone told me that rest and recovery were basically as important as working out and that I NEEDED to let my body rest and heal. Lo and behold, I was stronger and faster after rest breaks because my body was actually recovered and I could properly use the strength and speed I had been working on building in the gym,” one Redditor commented.
Do you agree with the things listed above? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Source: Reddit.
These are 10 Things That Completely Destroyed The Love in a Relationship
There’s no question that relationships can be confusing, but here are some of the top things to avoid if you want to keep your relationship healthy!
10 Actors and Actresses People Refuse to Watch Ever Again
We all have a favorite actor or actress, but most of us have a least-favorite as well. Check out this list of actors and actresses people never want to see performing again!
Top 10 Worst Human Inventions of All Time
Some inventions are world-changing, and some of them, well, they change the world in the wrong ways. Here are some of the worst inventions Redditors could think of.
10 Famous Celebrities Who Look Like They Smell Terrible
We’ve all had moments of hygiene faux pas—but these celebrities just look like they don’t take care of themselves at all.
10 Terrible Fads People Are Glad Died Out
Every fad has its time in the limelight, but some of them come and go faster than others; and some just need to die out right away. Check out this list of fads of which people were happy to see the last.
I recently posted two articles for frugal carnivores: a guide to cheap cuts of beef and another on on how to buy a side of beef. GRS-reader Sally has produced an introduction to eating vegetarian for cheap. Though her tips are for herbivores, many are useful to omnivores, as well.
About a year-and-a-half ago, for health reasons, my husband and I committed ourselves to a mostly vegetarian lifestyle. At home we eat entirely vegetarian; when we eat out we allow ourselves to choose meat. It’s also a priority for us to avoid the pesticides in non-organic produce and the hormones that come with non-organic dairy products. Here’s how we eat a ton of fruits and veggies at a fraction of the price you might expect.
Our top strategy is to eat locally-produced foods as often as possible. (Actually, eating locally is a priority for us based on both our physiological needs and the need for Americans to reduce oil consumption. Produce at the grocery store has traveled, on average, 1500 miles to reach us!) Because we live in an Atlanta apartment with no yard or porch, we are unable to grow anything ourselves except for herbs — so we seek out local farmers. (If you’d care to try an urban garden, this video is a good resource.) Locally-grown foods are sold to us at the peak of their flavor and nutritional value, making them more enjoyable. Buying from local farmers, we are also able to ask whether the foods we are buying have been grown using pesticides. (The organic certification process is expensive for small farmers, so some small farmers may use organic methods but not have government certification for years, if ever.)
Local farmers are able to provide us organic fruits and veggies at a fraction of the grocery store price because the foods have not been sent through any middlemen — ConAgra, anyone? — and because the foods have not had to travel long distances to reach us.
There are three primary ways we get local foods:
We shop at the local farmers market when it convenes on Saturday mornings. We buy what’s in season there and bring it home, and then I figure out our meals based on what we have purchased. (One great tool for that part is to use allrecipes.com, which lets me search for recipes that contain whatever ingredients I want to use.) I have developed a palate for many foods I had never before considered eating when we began to buy local, in-season foods this way.
We are also able to purchase local foods through joining a community-supported agriculture program, or CSA. With a CSA, we are purchasing a share of a particular farmer’s (or set of farmers’) crops. The produce is delivered to us once a week at a pick-up spot near our apartment. This month we will start the spring CSA round, getting our fruits, vegetables, and eggs — all organic — for $24/week for two people. You can easily find farmers markets and CSAs in your area by visiting Local Harvest.
The last way to get local, inexpensive fruits and vegetables is to pick them ourselves. Last summer, for example, my husband and I spent a lovely afternoon picking organic blueberries for $1/pound. In the 60 miles around Atlanta there are places to pick everything from pecans to raspberries to apples, so I hope we will utilize these methods more often in the future. (You can find places to pick your own by going to Google and typing “u-pick” with the name of the food and your state. Or search at Pick Your Own.) Two of my goals for this year are to procure an energy-efficient deep freezer, and to learn to can produce so that we can store our local bounty for longer periods of time!
Eating local foods is our top strategy for saving money, but we have several methods of trying to keep our grocery costs reasonable.
We buy frequently-used items in bulk at Costco (a membership-based store, similar to BJ’s and Sam’s Club) and, if those foods will spoil too quickly, split the items and the cost with friends. Costco has recently developed a much more extensive collection of organic foods than they previously offered.
We make liberal use of cheap vegetarian proteins: four servings of organic tofu will set you back $2; beans are even cheaper than that. Tofu and beans poorly prepared can be boring or even disgusting, but they can be marvelous when they are well-prepared. And eggs — oh, glorious eggs! A fried egg placed on some peppered asparagus or a frittata loaded with eggs, cheese, and vegetables can be a transcendent experience.
We attempt to keep our meals as empty of refined foods as possible. Pre-packaged meals, store-bought sauces, etc. are sometimes ridiculously expensive. Keeping many of our meals based on foods close to their natural state (steel-cut oats instead of instant, flavored oatmeal, for example) helps keep costs down.
We freeze leftovers in individual-sized, labeled containers (we use tupperware-like containers from Ikea and Sharpie’s erasable label system) and take those leftovers to work to microwave for lunches. Doling a dinner’s leftovers into individual portions and freezing them right after dinner prevents us from having rotting leftovers wasting away in our fridge.
Last, and possibly the least intuitive, we buy high-quality, high-cost items when doing so will mean the difference between an okay meal and a great one. We never want to feel deprived by our meals. Sometimes a small amount of an expensive ingredient makes all the difference. A small amount of pricey, freshly grated parmesan from Italy might be just the thing to give life to some steamed vegetables, or an incredible curry sauce might be costly until you consider that it gives you a satisfying Thai restaurant-like experience for $1 a serving. Sometimes paying a little more is worth it to keep yourself feeling satisfied with lower prices in the long run.
In my early twenties, I developed a hormone-linked cancer. In the process of researching different life elements that create or fight cancer, I realized that if I were to lead a long life, my lifestyle of high meat, processed carb, and dairy consumption had to go — and I had to get rid of the pesticides and added hormones in my diet. The switch to a mostly vegetarian, mostly organic lifestyle has decreased my cholesterol level and blood pressure, reduced my weight, and increased the level of my health. It’s also possible the shift in my lifestyle has prevented the return of cancer. With the exception of prevented medical expenses, those are benefits that are difficult to measure in dollars. Certainly, though, the value to my quality of life is much higher than the cost of increasing my vegetable intake has been.
Vegetarians of all stripes may be interested in The Veg Blog. If you’d like to grow your own vegetables, be sure to check out my wife’s recent GRS article on starting a garden.
Fitch Ratings downgraded the credit scores of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to AA+ from AAA, a day after it cut the U.S. sovereign credit rating.
The downgrades of the two government-sponsored enterprises are consistent with its downgrade of U.S. government debt, Fitch said in a press release on Wednesday. The move was “not being driven by fundamental credit, capital or liquidity deterioration at the firms,” it said.
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac benefit from implicit government support, Fitch said. The two enterprises help to backstop the multi-trillion dollar market for U.S. home mortgages.
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.
I met some friends at a local restaurant Monday night. While chatting, we found ourselves bopping to the music playing on the radio. For more than hour, great song followed great song: U2, Eurythmics, The Police, Elvis Costello, The Clash, New Order. But the ambient noise made it impossible to know what station we were hearing. “I have to know what this is,” I said at last. “This could be my new favorite radio station.”
I tracked down the manager. He told me we were listening to Fred on 44, a channel on XM Satellite Radio. I’d heard of satellite radio, but didn’t know much about it. When I got home, I did some research.
As expected, there’s an upfront cost to obtain a receiver that can de-scramble the satellite signal. Unfortunately, that’s not the only cost. There’s also a subscription fee of around $10/month.
Alas — a subscription fee. They’re not deal-breakers for me, but they turn otherwise sure things into financial dilemmas. I don’t mind one-time costs, but subscriptions make me wary.
I would love to purchase an iPhone, for example. The initial hardware cost is fine. I can justify that. But I can’t justify a $60/month, two-year contract. That’s nearly $1500 for a device I don’t actually need. I stopped playing World of Warcraft because of the subscription fee. I loved the game, but in order to get my money’s worth, I felt like I needed to play more than is healthy.
I view recurring expenses as potential money sinks. Too often I don’t get value for what I spend. For three years I carried an $70/month deluxe digital cable package so that I could watch high-definition television. But at most, I was watching an hour or two of television per month! Besides, who needs to see Antiques Roadshow in high-def?
Over the past year, I’ve cut the number of magazines to which I subscribe, dropped to basic cable, and cancelled my Audible account. These moves have freed over $100/month. Eliminating recurring expenses has made a significant difference to my cash flow. Most of the time, I don’t even miss the things I’ve eliminated!
Of course, we each probably have a few recurring expenses that are easy to justify due to the pleasure or utility they bring us. I’m willing to shell out for The New Yorker because even though I only read about one issue per month, when I do read it, I love it. And if I find the time to listen to audiobooks again, I’ll re-subscribe to Audible — it’s a good deal when I actually use it.
I can’t decide whether paying for satellite radio would be smart or not. I’ve signed up for the free three-day trial of XM’s web service. So far, I like it. I’d probably subscribe:
If NPR were available,
If there were some sort of device that allowed me to receive XM on my iPod, or
If it cost less.
As it stands, am I willing to spend $10/month for XM, and then pay for a receiver? How about $8/month for the streaming web version? I don’t know. For now, I’m just going to dig through my iTunes library to create some new playlists. I can probably duplicate the sound of Fred on 44. Maybe that will be enough…