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Tag: Budget

Setting SMART Goals

by Randy Chalmers on November 18, 2022.

If you haven’t used the SMART process for setting goals in your life or business, then you probably don’t know what the acronym means. S   – Specific M – Measurable A  – Attainable R  – Relevant T  – Time-bound Specific What exactly will be accomplished and by what means? Measurable How will your goal be...

$100 Left Over?

by Randy Chalmers on November 4, 2022.

We’ve discussed how people think they don’t have enough money to invest, so instead, they spend what they could have saved. But, what about those who are not yet investing, the ones who are on Dave’s Baby Step 2: pay off debt utilizing the debt snowball method? I know a lot of people reading this...

The Retirement Crisis

by Randy Chalmers on October 7, 2022.

Have you been fearing that you will be living in poverty in your golden years because news articles and studies have long stated that Americans do not know how to save or don’t save enough? In 2002 the Economic Policy Institute study reported that 40% of households then aged 47-64 would retire on less than...

Some tips to reduce spending as we approach the holiday season

by Randy Chalmers on September 30, 2022.

It is finally cooling down, and with the cooler temperatures comes the desire for a nice, hot, beverage. The easiest way to acquire these seemingly magical drinks is to run by the drive-through of your favorite coffee shop. Did you know the average cup of coffee has risen to $4.90?! You don’t have to stop...

Rising Prices Eating your Money?

by Michelle McEachin on September 15, 2022.

These days, rising food prices have us all wondering how to make ends meet. Even if you have lots of money at the end of your month, you are still probably looking for ways to stretch your dollars?! Right?   I believe the absolute best way to stretch that food budget and get the most bang...

Information about Qualified Tuition Plans (or 529 Plans)

by Randy Chalmers on September 9, 2022.

South Carolina taxpayers can deduct 100% of their contributions on their state tax returns (one of only four states that offer 100% of contributions to be claimed). There are two types of 529 plans: prepaid tuition plans and education savings plans. Prepaid Tuition Plans allow the account holder to purchase credits for future use at...

Are you Sinking your Funds?

by Michelle McEachin on September 9, 2022.

Are you sinking your funds?  We talk about budgets a lot around here. We believe that having a budget for your monthly expenses is terrific! But, don’t forget you have some expenses that are not monthly and some that are definitely not regular. Some bills will only come to your mailbox once a year. Bills...

Budgeting Can be Simple

by Randy Chalmers on August 19, 2022.

Do you budget? Do you stick to that budget? Are you constantly over-spending, under-saving, and using your credit card to cover expenses, leaving you with less money for next month? You might need to review Dave Ramsey’s budgeting tips! 1. Write down your income 2. List your expenses 3. Subtract expenses from income to equal...

Preparing for…Christmas?

by Michelle McEachin on August 5, 2022.

Last week, I talked about going back to school and now this week I’m going to talk about Christmas. Yes, you read that correctly. I said Christmas. Did you know that the average family spends over $1,000 on gifts for Christmas? This does not even include parties, food, travel, and lodging. If you aren’t careful,...

Tips for Back-to-School Shopping

by Michelle McEachin on August 1, 2022.

Many of you have kids at home and are about to face… Back to School! Like me, you are looking for value everywhere, and let’s face it, this year we need all the value we can find! No matter your list, a bit of prioritizing, budgeting, and thoughtfulness will stretch your dollars far and wide....