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Once you get behind on your bills, it can be very difficult to catch up on your payments. Debt can cause you to spend more money on interest as well — but if doesn’t have to be that way.
There are some time-tested strategies that you can do to get you out of debt in a calendar year. It’s going to take time, patience and an overall focus like never before on your part. But you can do it.
Yes, You Can Get Out Of Debt This Year
This article is going to tell you some steps to get out of debt.
We’re going to cut straight to the chase so that you can understand how to keep more of the money you make and not spend it immediately.
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t always have to pay money to get out of debt.
Here’s How To Get Out Of Debt Without Paying
One way to get out of debt is to ask for a pay increase at your job. Today’s job market is such that you may be able to get more money if you ask for a raise.
Do you have a laptop? Then you can make extra cash. Here are some other ways you can achieve your goal:
What Is The Fastest Way To Get Out Of Debt?
Aside from winning the lottery, which is not something we play, there are not any get-rich quick schemes that can work in real time. But that doesn’t mean you can’t make some serious inroads on your finances.
Here are the fastest ways to get out of debt.
Stop Spending
The first thing you need to do is put the credit card down. Obviously, there are things you need to buy, but you also need to slow down or stop spending on unnecessary things.
You might want to write a list of items you need to buy and stick to it. It’s called creating a budget. Once you have that, you will know what kind of money is going into your account and what’s going out.
Keep Your Credit Cards Open
One thing people in debt usually do is close their credit card accounts once they get out of debt. This is a mistake. Keep your credit card accounts open so that you can retain purchasing power.
Pay Off Your Most Expensive Debt First
Once your budget is set, then it’s time to pay off the most expensive debt first. The rationale behind this is to pay off the highest interest rate, which is taking the majority of your money.
If you have a credit card with $800 and one with $400, don’t be tempted to pay off the $400 first. Take care of the $800 because that’s the one you’re paying the higher interest rate on.
Take a look at your expenses and circle the smallest balance. That’s the one you pay first. Not only will this eradicate that particular bill, but it will give you some much-needed momentum to start attacking your other debt.
Pay More Than The Minimum Balance
You’ll never catch up if you only pay the minimum balance on your credit card balance. To make some progress, you always need to pay more than your minimum due.
It doesn’t have to be a large sum of money attached to each payment, but it needs to be extra i.e. more than the amount.
Final Word
Nobody likes to owe someone for a long time, no matter if it’s a credit card company or a person. That’s why credit card debt is so depressing. The good news is that you can get out of debt.
Tired of being saddled with credit card debt? It’s time for you get lighten your burdens and get out of financial trouble.
After you make some headway and get out of debt, it’s important that you stay out of debt. Stay within your means by sticking to your budget.
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You may already know that budgeting your money is the key to a healthy financial life for the present and future. What you may not know is how to allocate your income to achieve this.
Along with maintaining good credit, one way to save money responsibly is to adopt the “Profit First” method.
In this article, I’ll explain to you what the Profit First strategy is all about.
What Is the Profit First Strategy?
The Profit First method is one in which you take upfront any profits you’ve made from your paycheck before you pay your monthly expenses.
For example, let’s say you get a $1,000 check. You know that your expenses are about $700, so you’ll need at least that amount from that check. A Profit First strategy means that you would first take a percentage out of that check – let’s say $100 – and put it in a separate bank account.
Additionally, you might take another $50 from that check and deposit it into another bank account. That would leave you with enough money to pay your expenses while also sharing in the “profit” from that check.
What You Need To Start the Profit First Strategy
Get Out of Debt
The first thing you’ll need to do is get out of debt. If you’re behind on your bills, you can’t allocate money elsewhere.
Read our guide on how to get out of debt.
Open Different Bank Accounts
What you need to start Profit First are separate bank accounts for things you deem important. Here are some examples:
- Open a bank account for vacations.
- Open a bank account for investments.
- Open a bank account for food expenses.
There are different formulas you can come up with to put the Profit First method in action in your life.
Final Word
You want to be intentional about the money you make and how you want it to work for you. The Profit First strategy works for either business owners and individuals.
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The unemployment rate in Louisiana is 3.3%, according to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, which tracks the nation’s top economic indicators.
The numbers come as the Biden Administration released its October Jobs report, which indicates that U.S. hiring slowed to 150,000 jobs for the last month. The unemployment rate rose to 3.9%.
U.S. Jobs Report Just Released
For October, the United States saw nonfarm payrolls jump by 150,000 — less than was expected.
“We just learned our economy created 150,000 jobs in October – bringing the total since I took office to 14 million,” President Biden said in a statement online. “That’s on top of an unemployment rate that has stayed under 4% for 21 months straight, the longest stretch in over 50 years. Bidenomics is working.”
Others see the October jobs report numbers as a clear sign that of “stagflation,” where both unemployment and prices are on the rise – a not-so-fun twist in the game. There seems to be an odd “yolo” vibe about equities this week while our economy is signaling darkness.
While it’s easy to harp on the unemployment numbers, for perspective, we must remember that on average, the current administration has the highest real hourly wage and second-lowest unemployment rate among presidents back to Lyndon B. Johnson.
What Jobs Are In Demand In Louisiana?
In Louisiana, the state’s oil, fisheries and hospitality sectors account for plenty of jobs that are needed. As for those in demand, LinkedIn has a list of such employment opportunities that are hot in Louisiana. Here are some job titles:
- Manager, Unit Forecasting
- VP/GM
- Director of Advanced Manufacturing
- Dynamic Presenter – Virtual and In-Person Test Prep Instructor..
- Materials Specialist
- Vice President of Supply Chain – Construction / Energy Solutions
- Logistics Coordinator
Final Word
Jobs are hard to come by no matter if you’re seeking full-time work, part-time or looking to land gigs as a contract freelancer.
Need some help? Read up on websites that help you find high-paying remote jobs.
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Cold weather is not a friend to us in the Deep South, but that doesn’t mean we have to shiver through the night. We can actually heat our homes and save money at the same time.
This article will show you you some money-saving ways to heat your house when it’s cold outside.
How To Heat Your Home Without Electricity
In addition to wearing warmer clothing, you can heat your home without electricity by taking advantage of several amenities you may have in your home.
Fire Up the Chimney
Many homes have a chimney, or fireplace, that can significantly heat up the immediate room and those near it.
Before you light your fireplace, make sure that your air vents are open. Once you add some logs on the bottom of the fireplace, you’re ready to light a match and start the heating process.
Replace Your Windows
Now, I know you may be thinking that replacing your windows will cost you some cash, but you’ll save a lot of money — and heat – if you do. The Department of Energy website Energy.gov, says you can save up to 30% by replacing old, drafty windows.
Use Kerosene Heater
Kerosene heaters don’t take up nearly as much space as an air conditioning unit and they put out some great heat for their size.
When using a kerosene heater, make sure you familiarize yourself with safety tips and protocols so that you don’t endanger you and your family’s lives as well as threaten the structure of your home.
Note: If you choose to use such a heater indoors, use it sparingly so as not to increase your risk of causing fires or carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
Final Word
Keeping warm in the winter can be a challenge if you don’t have a plan. But if you have one, your life can be a lot easier — and you’ll be a lot warmer.
Expect to indulge in many foods that New Orleans is known For, including Gumbo, Beignets and more.
Read about things to see and do in New Orleans.
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Are you getting ready for tax day 2023? No matter if you’re getting a refund or have to pay the state or federal government, tax day is a day to remember.
This article will tell you how to file a tax extension as well as when tax day is.
When Is The Official Tax Day For 2023?
Tax day is Tuesday, April 18. That’s the last day to file. But what if you need an extension? We’re going to show you how to do it. Never pay someone to file an extension for you, it’s free to do.
Millions of Americans fail to file their taxes annually, subjecting themselves to huge penalties that accrue interest. You don’t want to be like that.
If you need to file a last-minute extension, here’s what you need to do.
How To File Your Tax Extension Form for Free
Individual tax filers, regardless of income, can use Free File to electronically request an automatic tax-filing extension.
- Filing this form gives you until Oct. 15 to file a return.
- To get the extension, you must estimate your tax liability on this form and should also pay any amount due.
Get An Extension When You Pay On Your Taxes
If you can only pay part of your tax bill, you can indicate that the payment is for an extension using Direct Pay, the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS), or a credit or debit card. This way you won’t have to file a separate extension form and you will receive a confirmation number for your records.
Extension Forms by Filing Status
Individuals
Special rules may apply if you are:
- Serving in the U.S. military in a combat zone or a qualified hazardous duty area
- Living outside the United States
Business and Corporations
The easiest way for criminals to steal sensitive data is simply to ask for it. IRS urges people to learn to recognize phishing emails, calls or texts that pose as familiar organizations such as banks, credit card companies or even the IRS. Keep sensitive data safe.
Interested in other ways to save or make money? Check out our Money Section:
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New Orleans, Louisiana is the perfect city in indulge in when it comes to cool things to to see and do for a cheap date. The city’s rich history only adds to the adventures you can experience.
What Can You Do For A Cheap Date In New Orleans?
Let’s look at some of the best cheap date ideas you can do in New Orleans.
Rendezvous At The Library
You’d be surprised how romantic it could be to lose yourself among the thousands of books inside your local library. Why not pick a day and time and get together to read the best of Hemingway, Alice Walker and other great authors?
Choose a branch of the New Orleans Public Library System.
Check Out a Sports Game
Photo by Jep Gambardella: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-woman-in-orange-blouse-looking-at-her-date-5083581/ The Saints and Pelicans are two of the hottest tickets in town. If you can’t get inside the game, don’t sweat it. Go to a sports bar instead. It will be much cheaper!
Here are some great sports bars in New Orleans.
Take A Swamp Tour
When you come to Nola, there are few things as bayou-authentic as a swamp tour. You’ll enjoy the time outdoors, get a real taste of the bayou and even get to see some alligators.
Explore Your Local Farmer’s Market
Another cheap and fun time can be had at your local farmer’s market. Just think of the delicious foods you can try as you ripen your relationship aisle after aisle with deep, insightful conversation.
Here are the best farmer’s markets in New Orleans.
Do A Game Night
What’s better than Monopoly or a good game of Spades at the house? The conversation will be great and you can’t beat the price.
Game night can also be a great time to try some made-from-scratch recipes you’ve been starving to make.
Go On A Picnic
New Orleans has some really beautiful parks. Take advantage of the scenery by finding a cute spot in the shade and bringing some food stuffs for a modest picnic.
Go For Some Beignets
Beignets are one of the calling cards of New Orleans cuisine. The sweet treat paired with some coffee is a great way to get to know someone.
Here are the best places in New Orleans for some good beignets.
Final Word
Who doesn’t enjoy a nice time on a budget? If you’re thinking about going on a date in New Orleans, it’s even better when it’s affordable!
As you can see, going out on the town doesn’t have to break the bank. There are so many things to get into once you decide to save money on your activities.
Looking for something to do in the city? What To See And Do In New Orleans
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A recent report lists New Orleans neighbor Baton Rouge as one of the cities with the cheapest rents in the United States.
The report from Rent.com looked at the average rental rates for every large city in America, including those with populations over 50,000 and ample rental inventory.
Baton Rouge comes in No. 3 on the list, with rents averaging between $586 for a one-bedroom apartment to $1,088 for a three-bedroom.
Apartments with common layouts — studios, one-bedrooms and two-bedrooms — are included in the list.
Cities With The Cheapest Rents In America
10. Des Moines, Iowa
- Population: 214,237
- Studio Rent: $904
- 1-BR Rent: $1,221
- 2-BR Rent: $1,393
9. Albuquerque, New Mexico
- Population: 214,237
- Studio Rent: $904
- 1-BR Rent: $1,221
- 2-BR Rent: $1,393
8. (Tie) Winston Salem, North Carolina
- Population: 247,945
- Studio Rent: $1,026
- 1-BR Rent: $1,123
- 2-BR Rent: $1,373
8. (Tie) Louisville, Kentucky
- Population: 617,638
- Studio Rent: $1,011
- 1-BR Rent: $1,179
- 2-BR Rent: $1,324
7. (Tie) Memphis, Tennessee
- Population: 651,073
- Studio Rent: $1,016
- 1-BR Rent: $1,138
- 2-BR Rent: $1,201
6. Indianapolis, Indiana
- Population: 876,384
- Studio Rent: $1,063
- 1-BR Rent: $1,072
- 2-BR Rent: $1,298
4. (Tie) San Antonio, Texas
- Population: 1,547,253
- Studio Rent: $750
- 1-BR Rent: $1,078
- 2-BR Rent: $1,304
4. (Tie) Omaha, Nebraska
- Population: 478,192
- Studio Rent: $827
- 1-BR Rent: $983
- 2-BR Rent: $1,343
3. Baton Rouge
- Population: 220,236
- Studio Rent: $586
- 1-BR Rent: $1,056
- 2-BR Rent: $1,088
2. Fargo, North Dakota
- Population: 124,662
- Studio Rent: $626
- 1-BR Rent: $826
- 2-BR Rent: $936
1. Grand Forks, North Dakota
- Population: 55,839
- Studio Rent: $676
- 1-BR Rent: $800
- 2-BR Rent: $890
Final Word
Finding cheap rent is a job unto itself, but it can be done. Strangely enough, one major factor keeping rents high is the U.S. housing market, which continues to put stress on Americans.
While New Orleans is not one of the most expensive rental markets, but down I-10 it’s a different story. Here are some cheap apartments in Baton Rouge.
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We all have those friends with the nice vehicle that we love to ride in so much. They are usually intent on keeping premium gas in their tanks.
The reasoning goes something like this: “My car runs better with premium fuel.” But is that true?
Should You Fill Your Tank With Premium Gas?
The truth is that it may be OK to fill your vehicle with premium gas, but the best way to know is to check the owner’s manual. There it will tell you the type of gas the manufacturer recommends.
If your car manual specifically says that it needs premium fuel, then filling your vehicle up with anything less could damage the engine and, in some cases, void your vehicle warranty.
To understand deeper, let’s talk a little about what premium gas is and what its ingredients are.
What Is Premium Gas?
Premium gas is the highest-octane level for retail-quality fuel. The octane rating for premium gas is generally between 91 and 94.
The more octane in your fuel, the more ignition power your vehicle will have.
What Octane Is Premium Gas?
Premium gas consists of 91 to 94 octane, the highest for retail-quality gasoliine. Regular contains the lowest octane (87) and Midgrade has an octane level about 89 or 90.
What Happens If You Mix Premium And Regular Gas?
If you mix premium and regular fuel, what you will have effectively done is lower the octane into a mid-grade-level fuel. Many gas stations do this anyway.
If you mix two different octanes, most cars will operate just fine. Keep this in mind though: Using regular fuel in a premium vehicle will most definitely reduce the car’s efficiency.
Final Word
If your car’s owner’s manual says to put premium fuel in the tank only, that’s what you do. On the other hand, it’s perfectly alright to put premium fuel in a standard vehicle.
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Gas prices have dipped a bit after increasing over the last month in Louisiana and across the nation. In New Orleans, you can find some good gas prices if you know where to look.
We’ve compiled a list of some of the cheapest gas prices you’ll currently find in the New Orleans area.
How Much Is A Gallon Of Gas In New Orleans, Louisiana Right Now?
Here in New Orleans, gas prices are averaging around $3 and 53 cents a gallon right now. according to data from Gas Buddy. The lowest we’ve seen is $3.45 a gallon in the Gramercy area as well as around Belle Chasse.
Could gas prices go up further? Yes. That’s why now is the time to fuel up at the tank.
If you have a vehicle, especially a huge gas guzzler, you should go to the gas station and fuel up. You’re going to save a lot of money.
Map: Where Is Cheap Gas Near You?
The cheapest gas I’ve seen is at these New Orleans gas stations:
Gas Station Location Price Per Gallon Costco 3900 Dublin St. New Orleans, La. $3.45 Sam's Club 3900 Airline Dr. New Orleans, La. $3.45 Sam's Club 1527 Manhattan Blvd, Harvey, La. $3.50 Walmart 2500 Archbishop Hannan Blvd
Meraux, LA$3.55 Murphy 8001 W Judge Perez Dr
Chalmette, LA$3.57 Speed Racer 8020 Downman Rd
New Orleans, LA$3.59 Marathon 101 Bayou Rd
Poydras, LA$3.59 Sam's Club 455 31st St
Kenner, LA$3.59 RaceTrac 8130 W Judge Perez Dr
Chalmette, LA$3.59 To save time, you can use Google to find cheap gas. Visit this link to find cheap gas near you.
3 Ways To Save Money On Gas
If you’re wondering what it takes to save money on gas, here are three suggestions you can put to good use.
Use a Gas App
There are several apps on Android and in the Apple Store. Here are the best apps to use:
Pay With Cash
You might not know it, but it’s cheaper to buy gasoline when you pay with cash. When you use a credit card, you will be hit with a credit surcharge.
Many gas station operators tack on a fee to process your credit card, which is why the fuel costs will be higher. To get a gas station’s advertised price, pay for gas with cash money!
Join A Rewards Program
Another say to save on gas money is to join the rewards program of a gas station near you. Some of the top gas station reward programs include BP, RaceTrac and Shell, which gives you points you can redeem for things like food and gas.
Last Words
Some people are convinced that they have to spend more money on premium fuel because their car runs better on it, but that’s not the case for most vehicles!
How can you find out for sure? Pull out the owner’s manual. If it says that premium gasoline is recommended, then by all means please use that.
The truth is that cheap gas may work find for your vehicle. The type of gas you use will affect your engine’s performance and fuel economy, so always follow what’s written in your car’s manual.
Interested in other ways to save or make money? Check out our Money Section:
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If you’re a small business owner in Louisiana, you know how tough it has been to keep afloat during the COVID-19 pandemic. The good news is that help is out there. You just have to apply for it.
Selly Foundation
The Selley Foundation (Selley) is a donor-advised fund of the Greater New Orleans Foundation. Selley Trustees review grant requests in the areas of education, arts, and in certain cases the environment.
The Doris and Peter Hansen Technical Assistance Fund
The Doris and Peter Hansen Technical Assistance Fund for Arts Organizations gives monetary support to New Orleans organizations sponsoring cultural activities in the fields of classical music, theater, and fine arts. Apply here.
Facebook Small Grants Program
Facebook is another company offering big money to businesses. This time, the social media giant has pledged $40 million in grants. How it works is that Facebook will give $4,000 grants ($2500 cash, $1500 in optional ads credits) to 10,000 qualifying small businesses to keep them afloat.
Interested in the Facebook Small Grants Program? Apply here.
GoFundMe Small Business Relief Fund
GoFundMe has partnered with smaller stakeholders to offer the Small Business Relief Fund to those who apply. The grant gives those who are selected $500. Apply here.
Fearless Strivers Grant Contest
The Fearless Strivers Grant Contest is open only to black women who meet the eligibility requirements. You can get $10,000 if you are accepted.
Apply for the Fearless Strivers Grant Contest here.
Halstead Grant
The Halstead Grant is an annual award for emerging silver jewelry artists. Applicants submit answers to 15 business questions in addition to their design portfolios. The grand prize is a $7,500 cash grant plus other benefits.
The postmark deadline is August 1, 2022. Apply for a Halstead Grant here.
Visa • IFundWomen Grant
Visa is partnering with IFundWomen to offer grants to Black women-owned small businesses. The program is providing 10 grants of $10,000 each as well as one year of IFundWomen Annual Coaching Membership.
To qualify for the grant, you must:
- Be a Black woman
- Have a business up and running for at least two years
- Have a minimum annual revenue of at least $24,000
Apply for the Visa + IFundWomen Grant Here.
Hidden Star Minority Grant
Hidden Star is offering $3,500 grants for minority businesses. If you’re interested, apply for the Hidden Star grant.
Small Business Administration Restaurant Revitalization Fund
The Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) provides funding to help restaurants and other eligible businesses stay open. Food businesses may be eligible to get funding equal to their pandemic-related revenue loss up to $10 million per business and no more than $5 million per physical location.
Recipients don’t have to repay the grant if the money is used for eligible expenses by March 11, 2023.
Apply for the SBA Restaurant Revitalization Fund
Final Word
It’s not easy being a business owner in New Orleans or any city. Do you know of any other grant opportunities out there? Let us know in the comments.
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