Many people live on a very tight budget that leaves little to no money available for saving or investing. You may be aware of the financial recommendations to begin saving and investing for the future as soon as possible, but this may seem impossible based on your current circumstances. Each person has a unique financial situation (personal finances can be pretty tough), but most may be able to make a few changes to free up money that can be used for investment purchases.

Pay Off Debts

One of the primary reasons why many people live on a tight budget is because they are financially overwhelmed by high debt payments. Keep in mind that eliminating your debts would free up a substantial amount of money that can be used for investments in the future. More than that, some people could benefit from an increase in income to them get through their tough times. Develop a debt reduction plan as a first step toward finding money to invest.

Adjust Your Budget

Regardless of whether you need to start your financial improvement process by paying off debts or you are ready to begin investing right away, adjust your budget to free up extra cash. The best budgetary adjustments are focused on reducing fixed expenses. For example, sell one of your cars to get rid of an auto loan payment, or shop for cheaper insurance. By making budget adjustments, you may free up a few hundred dollars or more each month that may be used for debt reductions or investments.

Use the Right Online Trading Platform

Once you are ready to begin contributing money toward your investments regularly, look for an online training platform to use. While it is easy to assume that all platforms are the same, they usually vary in significant ways. For example, the trading fee can differ substantially. The types of investments that you have access to as well as the research tools offered through the platform may also vary.

Check for ROI

You can't dive into investing by throwing your money at the first thing that looks good — this is a good way to lose a lot of money and never see it again. Whether you're investing in real estate, franchising, or stock, you need to double check its return on investment (ROI) potential. If you're purchasing a franchise, for example, calculate ROI by dividing projected annual profit by the total investment cost. Do this several times for different possibilities to determine which one has the best likelihood for success.

It may seem like you cannot feasibly start investing at this time, but this may not be the case. You can see now that there are several steps that you can take to begin improving your financial situation and to free up cash that could be used to purchase investments regularly. Initially, you should review your case with debts and create a realistic budget. By doing so, you can better determine the steps that you need to take to start investing more money on a regular basis.

References:
https://money.usnews.com
https://www.powerfinancetexas.com
http://www.africamoneyskills.com
https://www.franchisegator.com

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Courtesy of Soberlink

If you’ve spent any amount of time on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest, you’ve probably noticed something: motivation is trendy. Everyone’s trying to bolster their own personal success by using inspirational quotes. And if you want to stay current, you should too. But how do you make quote graphics? Which quotes should you choose? Here are some quick tips for social media success.

Choose the Right Quotes for Your Audience

While inspirational quotes are great, it's difficult to keep everyone engaged. It's always important to target your quote for your audience. After all, these are the people most likely to purchase your company's products or services. If your company markets business software, you'll want to offer entrepreneurial quotes. On the other hand, healthcare companies might regularly post quotes appealing to nurses or doctors.

Create Your Own Images

While it might seem easy to begin grabbing motivational images, this is rarely the best option. Your company could find itself in trouble from using copyrighted images. Of course, using quotes means attributing them to their respective authors. However, it's best to use your own images while creating posts based around these quotes using tools like Canva. This also helps to ensure that your business is effectively branding all created content.

Place Quotes on Company Social Media Pages

After creating the right images, you might wonder where to post them. Considering that, you'll want to ensure these images are on your company's social media pages. This ensures that your company is popping up in followers’ feeds, staying fresh in their minds. In addition, this shows followers that your company is worth continuing to follow.

Try to Avoid Spamming Quotes

While it's important to have a stream of content, this can go wrong. With that in mind, it's important to avoid going overboard regarding inspirational quotes. It's great to want your audience to stay motivated. However, posting too many images each day could cause more harm than good. Your followers want fresh contact but they don't need to be bombarded. Therefore, consider keeping posts relevant and not creating more than a few per day. Social Media Today reports that posting too much will likely "annoy your followers."

To summarize, inspirational quotes are important ways for companies to market themselves. Many companies have grown their online following through this type of marketing. However, it's important to follow a few guidelines while creating these types of posts. If you follow the previously mentioned tips, your company might obtain a similar type of success.


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Many Americans have major concerns that they will be able to achieve the retirement of their dreams. While it may be more difficult than it was a couple of decades ago, experiencing a great retirement can still be a reality for young adults. Here are some ways to make it happen.

Start Saving Early

The key to having a great retirement is having sufficient funds available to pay for it. This could mean having a great pension as a parachute. However, most people don't have this luxury. This means that they'll need to start saving as soon as possible. People who start saving in their twenties or thirties will be able to see their stash of cash grow because of compounding. It's simple. The earlier a person starts, the more time her money has to grow.

Minimize Expenses Today

Another step toward achieving an amazing retirement is through cutting expenses. Those who need less money today to live a fulfilling life will likely need less money in retirement to enjoy their golden years. Every dollar that's left over after expenses is a dollar that can go toward saving for retirement.

Estimate How Much You Need

To have an idea of how you're going to get to where you want to be in terms of retirement, you have to have a map that will track the steps that are necessary to get there. This is where the planning rubber meets the road. Figuring the amount that you'll need for an amazing retirement will involve figuring out how much you can expect to pay for a mortgage or rent, transportation, and food. Additionally, if you're looking to travel or spend time in a tropical location, it's a good idea to figure this into your retirement budget.

Consider Geographic Arbitrage

If you're really ambitious and open to adventure, it's possible to retire abroad, or at least in a cheaper locale within the US, to cut down on the amount needed to finance retirement. When retiring abroad, it's important to remember that immigration processes can be difficult and costly. However, the living expenses after these initial costs can be quite a bit cheaper over time, especially in countries where the dollar is strong.

Invest Aggressively

Investing in CDs will not work in a low-interest environment. This means that you'll want to keep quite a bit of your nest egg in growth investments like stocks or mutual funds so that you avoid losing money to inflation. Additionally, it's important to remember that you will want to avoid drawing down too much money, especially early in your retirement years. Most advisors recommend withdrawing between 3 and 4 percent annually to avoid running out of money.

Saving money early and then living off of investments is a great strategy to see that you're able to retire comfortably. Being willing to move to a cheaper part of the world might even mean that you can live on a tropical beach in your golden years. The time to start the planning process is now.

If you have questions about retirement and what you need to do to prepare, don’t hesitate to contact us today!


References:

American Funds | Starting Early to Save for Retirement Is Important
Kiplinger |  Retirement Savings Calculator
Dave Ramsey | How to Invest in the Right Mix of Mutual Funds
Freedom Law | Immigration Law

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As many adults approach retirement, their goal is to pay off as much of their mortgage balance as possible. After all, when your mortgage is paid off entirely, your monthly expenses will understandably decrease substantially. However, there are numerous benefits associated with refinancing a mortgage as you approach retirement or even while you are in retirement.

Pay Your Debt Off Faster

Many homeowners who have been paying on the same mortgage for years may have their debt established on a 30-year term with a relatively high interest rate. When you refinance your mortgage, you may be able to take advantage of a lower interest rate and a shorter term. These two factors combine together to give you potentially faster debt reduction.

Reduce Your Monthly Expenses

Depending on the specifics of your current loan and the new loan that you may qualify for, you could reduce your monthly mortgage payment. Keep in mind that your mortgage payment amount is based on the interest rate and loan term that you select as well as the amount of the loan’s original principal balance. If you had a starting loan amount of $200,000 on financing that started 15 years ago and that still has 15 years remaining on the loan, your payments are based on the $200,000 loan amount.

However, if you only have $50,000 left on your mortgage, you could refinance so that your payments are based on this much smaller loan amount. The result can be substantial savings.

Use the Equity

Another reason to potentially refinance your mortgage is to tap into your home equity. You may have tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars available in your home's equity. The cash-out refinance option can take some of that equity and turn it into cash in your hands. If you are a veteran, there may be even more options available to you when you use a VA cash-out refinance loan. This cash may be used to invest in income-producing assets, to pay off other debts with a higher interest rate, or to achieve other financially-beneficial goals.

Take Advantage of Tax Benefits

While it may seem ideal to pay off your mortgage, keep in mind that your mortgage gives you tax benefits each year. If you pull equity out or even if you simply apply for a rate-term refinance, you can continue to take advantage of the tax benefits while also taking advantage of some of the other benefits described here.

Your home mortgage is a debt, but it also can be an excellent resource when used strategically. Determine what your short-term and long-term goals are, and explore the many ways that refinancing may help you to accomplish your goals.

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Why Scammers Target the Elderly

The elderly are targeted so much by scammers because they likely have a retirement or social security fund and are not as mentally sharp or technology-literate as a younger person. This makes them easier to scare and take advantage of in the modern world. Unscrupulous people try to take advantage of seniors in several ways, and here are the top 5 scams to watch out for:

1. Fake IRS Messages Scammers

use email and phone calls to pose as fake IRS agents in an attempt to scare people into giving up crucial information or sending money. They often accuse the recipient of not paying their taxes and threaten them with punishment or jail time. The elderly are often fooled by the fake IRS agents and end up with stolen identity information or missing money. The real IRS never contacts people via phone, email or social media, so any message from the IRS over these communication systems is a scam.

2. Fake Medicare Messages

Within the year of 2018-2019, new Medicare cards are being mailed to all recipients. These cards will no longer have the recipients' social security number but will provide a random number for the new system. Scammers are taking advantage of this by calling Medicare beneficiaries and demanding payment for their new Medicare cards. Any phone call or email that asks for money for a new card is a scam because Medicare is issuing these new cars for free in every state.

3. Home Invasions Scams

Some unscrupulous people go door to door posing as repairmen for water, electrical or some other utility. They arrive with an apprentice or assistant and show official-looking paperwork and identification. Once again this is playing to a seniors' fear that one of their utilities is down or they are in danger of gas leaks or electrical accidents. While the “repairman” is distracting the homeowner, the apprentice burglarizes the home and steals valuables and money. These home invasions can happen in as little as ten minutes. Seniors should be wary of any servicemen they or a relative haven't called for.

4. Posing as A Relative

These scams are especially horrible because they play on the fear a senior has for the safety of their loved ones. The scammers get a hold of a senior's telephone number and pretend to be a relative or a friend of a relative who is hurt or in trouble. Of course, the only way to bail this “relative” out of trouble is to send money in some form, either by wire, PayPal, and sometimes even ridiculous requests like iTunes gift cards.

5. Investment Scams

Because older people are saving their money and planning for retirement, they are targeted by scammers who take advantage of their need to save for when they no longer have a job. Whether it's a pyramid scheme or a dodgy email investment, these people are looking to drain social security and retirement from innocent people. Be wary of investments that seem too good to be true or have no public data available. And never invest in something presented over email.

For more help on keeping your money safe as you near retirement or feel you need to plan better for retirement, check out more articles from the Retirement Planning Store!

References:
ADT Home Defenders | Crime Rates
Local DVM | Police Warn Waynesboro Residents of Home Invasion Scam
AJC | 10 financial scams targeting seniors and how to avoid them


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People work their whole lives, but even those who have saved plenty of money find that they can face some financial challenges once they leave the workforce. Here are five financial problems that often face retirees.

Healthcare Costs

Many retirees underestimate how much they will spend on healthcare when they retire. Not only do the face the regular inflation of healthcare costs, which is much higher than overall inflation, but as people age, they tend to need more health care. They may require more prescriptions and deal with health complications. This all adds up to spending that they may not have adequately prepared for. What might help fight healthcare costs is retiring to a city with lower living costs or that is more suited for retired living, as that will lower the overall money you pay, and may help you with any medical bills. But be sure that the cities you consider moving to are still suited to the type of lifestyle you’re seeking.

Debt

It's a common misconception that most people retire debt-free. That's far from the truth. Many retirees still have years to pay on their mortgage, and they may have other debts, such as credit card debt. Reduced income in retirement may not be enough to continue to pay that debt at the same level as when the retirees were working.

Bad Investments

Most retirees rely on the investments they have made to generate income in their retirement to supplement Social Security and a pension if they have one. Bad investments can be a drag on those plans because they may not generate enough income or they may even incur losses. Timeshares are an example of a bad investment that generates no return and can drain limited resources though annual fees.

Household Spending

Many people assume that they will significantly cut down on their household spending when they retire, but that may not be the case, especially in early years. While they are still healthy and able, many retirees want to travel and do other activities, such as going to concerts and sporting events, which cost a lot of money. Retirees may also eat out more. It's important to budget your retirement years assuming that your household spending will stay the same, at least during the first few years.

Supporting Relatives

Many retirees find themselves having to financially support adult children or aging parents with general living expenses or long-term assisted living expenses. This can cause a significant financial drag and cause people to spend down their retirement nest egg significantly. In some cases, people may be forced to go back to work at least part-time. Beyond providing care, the unexpected death of a loved one can also carry a financial burden. These are expenses to keep in mind as you move into retirement. 

When it comes to financial challenges in retirement, you need to plan accordingly. When estimating spending, assume it will be higher than you think. You also should pay down debt as much as possible and dispose of bad investments before entering retirement.

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As time goes on, most people begin to experience dental problems, including lost or shifting teeth, gum issues, and an uneven bite. However, a few basic lifestyle adjustments can help to maintain effective dental health and prevent having to resort to dentures as time goes on.

Eat Healthy 

Fresh, preferably organic fruits and vegetables play an important nutritional role in any diet. Three to five servings daily are essential to keep teeth healthy, along with the rest of the body. Crunchy fruits like apples and vegetables such as carrots naturally help to clean the teeth and provide valuable vitamins and minerals that support dental health. Drinking plenty of water is also a good idea, along with avoiding acidic and sugary foods that contribute to tooth decay. If you are unable to brush after every meal, rinsing your mouth with clear water and spitting it out helps to remove damage-causing surface residue.

Practice Daily Hygiene

Everyone should brush their teeth after eating, or at least twice a day, morning and night, to remove food particles. Residual debris settles into the tooth enamel and burrows into gum tissue to cause infection, which leads to tooth decay and eventual loss if left untreated, along with inflamed gums, which cause gingivitis and periodontal disease. Flossing helps to remove hard-to-reach residue from between each tooth and below the gum line, thus preventing irritation and inflammation. An oral mouthwash offers added protection with antibacterial ingredients that kill oral bacteria. Some mouthwash products include fluoride, which is sometimes missing in an untreated water supply. Dentists recommend rinsing with fluoride to help protect against decay.

Take Your Medications as Directed

With the onset of age often comes memory trouble, making it difficult for seniors to remember which medications they need to take, how many, and when. For similar reasons they are also at risk of either unintentionally or intentionally abusing prescription medications. This isn't so bad when it's just a vitamin C supplement, but it's dangerous when it's an opioid like Percocet or a benzodiazepine like Xanax. Abusing prescription drugs can seriously harm even a young and healthy body, and it can have even more severe consequences for an aged body. In the context of today's discussion, prescription drugs when abused can cause irreversible harm to teeth and gums through dry mouth, acid reflux, tooth grinding, reduced blood flow to the gums, and lapses in consciousness that prevent regular oral hygiene.

Consult a Dentist

The ideal dental checkup includes seeing a dentist twice a year for exams and professional cleaning. This helps to identify any problems early so they can be promptly treated before they turn into bigger issues. Also, the dentist can often recommend specific hygiene practices or dental products suited to each patient's needs. Cavities can be filled before they cause a tooth to become loose and fall out, or require extraction. Dentists can also provide hygiene kits with a toothbrush and sample oral health products.

Don't wait until you’re already losing teeth before addressing oral care issues. Start now by developing a consistent care plan that begins at home each day and continues at the dentist's office every six months. And, if it comes to it, be glad you have comprehensive dental insurance!

References
https://greatist.com/health/healthy-teeth-foods
http://www.clementdental.com
https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/f/fluoride
​https://murfreesborofamilydentistry.com/preventive-care/
​https://prevailintervention.com/long-does-xanax-stay-in/

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Dental Discount click here

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​Famous scientists and theorists have often claimed that time is relative, but whatever the truth is, time certainly leaves its mark on our bodies, and the more the years go on, the better care we need to take of them. Here are some tips on how to take care of your health after the age of 60 so life is as good, or even better than before.

 
Do Your Dance

Whatever physical activity you do, physical exercise will benefit your body in many ways. Many elderly people make the mistake of laying back and taking it easy after 60 but keeping active at this age will boost your mood and provide more inspiration to grow. Doing even thirty minutes a day of cardio will regulate your body's functions like coordination, bone formation, posture, muscle maintenance, and hormone balance. 

 
Care for Your Near and Dear

Meaningful and close relationships are just as important to our health as physical maintenance. Keep in touch with friends and family, and if you can, create new ones. There are plenty of common activities organized where you can meet people with similar interests. Whether it’s knitting, book clubs, or programs at your local library, make an effort to find belonging in your community.

 
Embrace Change

Old age brings its own sets of joys and sorrows, just like any part of life. Things might or might not change drastically for you. Whatever happens, do not forget to embrace the changes, and be grateful for things that have stood the test of time. Remember to embrace your feelings as well and find ways to express them so they do not get buried and turn into resentment or depression. 
 

Food and Diet

Be choosy about your food and diet because it does matter. In old age, the metabolism slows down. Eating healthy is important in order to maintain your energy levels. You might consider taking some general supplements for health as well. Fish oil, calcium, and vitamin C are some of the big ones. You might also use general health supplements like ASEA that work on a cellular level. Consider eating more fresh fruits, vegetables, and more whole foods in general. These are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals and are easier on the digestion. Keep hydrated by drinking sufficient amounts of water as well. 
 

Get Enough Sleep

It is not uncommon for to experience difficulty sleeping. As common as insomnia is, there are measures that must be taken to improve sleep. Boost your melatonin levels at night by limiting all amounts of light. Make your bedroom a place that is free of noise, light, and heat as all of these contribute to insomnia. Go to bed earlier, so you have to time relax into the sleeping state gradually. 
 
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Remember, retirement and getting older are not the end of life. Make sure you live this free period of your life to the very best and improve your own health every day. 

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Photo credit: Aqua Rec's

So, you've reached that time in life where going to work is an option. If you're ready to retire, there are some purchases that you might want to look into. These could make your life simpler and more fulfilling. Here are five things to consider purchasing when it comes time to retire.

A Hot Tub
​If you're ready to retire, it might be time to get a hot tub. This luxurious toy is a great amenity that can help you with relaxation. As stress is one of the leading health hazards that retirees might have to deal with, anything that can cut down on stress is a great purchase. Hot tubs can be utilized inside or outside, and the area of the country you live in might impact where you choose to place a hot tub.

A Condo
If you're ready to retire, there's a good chance that your kids have flown the coop. Without kids in the home means that your forever dream home might not be necessary. Selling your home and getting a condo to live in could free up some capital for retirement while also cutting down on the amount of home maintenance you have to perform.

A Vacation
Perhaps you've always wanted to go to Europe or Hawaii. If your health is still good and you have the money, early in your retirement is the perfect time to make that trip happen. Without the need to check into an office on a daily basis, you have plenty of time to travel during the off-season to save some money.

Trips To See Family
If your family members live in some different locales, you should finally have the time to visit them. Retirement should also provide the passive income that's necessary to make these trips. If your family has room, you can even save on the cost of lodging.

Bonds Or An Annuity
If you're worried about running out of money, purchasing a financial instrument that provides passive income might be a good idea. Bonds and annuities pay out cash on a regular basis. Some bond funds even pay out a monthly distribution to those who own them. Bonds or pensions could be a great option for smoothing out your income so that you have less to worry about.
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If you're ready to retire, it might be time to make a few strategic purchases. From a new hot tub to a vacation to a far-off locale that you've only dreamed about, retirement could provide the time and the funds to make these goals a reality.

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