Finance Globe

U.S. financial and economic topics from several finance writers.

Chris Bibey is a freelance writer and internet marketing professional located in Pittsburgh, PA.

Don’t Make these Mistakes when Shopping Online

Don’t Make these Mistakes when Shopping Online
Many people have fallen in love with the idea of shopping online. This puts them in position to find and buy everything they need, all without stepping foot outside their home. Despite the convenience and opportunity to save money, this experience does not always go as planned. Below are three mistakes to avoid when shopping via the internet: 1. Overpaying for shipping. While you may be able to save money on the cost of the item,...
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Frank
On #1: Many companies provide pickup at the store. While you may not want to do this, if a company doesn't waive shipping costs, t... Read More
Thursday, 17 December 2015 18:31
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Why did Your Home Insurance Premium Increase?

Why did Your Home Insurance Premium Increase?
Many homeowners face this situation: they purchase an affordable home insurance policy with comprehensive coverage. Everything is going just fine, and then they receive a notice that their premium will increase. If you don’t know why your premium increased, the best thing you can do is consult with your agent. This person can explain what happened and provide information on your options. Before it comes to this, however, you may want to learn more about some...
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Frank
Great information Chris. I would also add 2 others: (1) increase in luxury items such as watches, jewelry, etc. (2) changes to the... Read More
Tuesday, 24 November 2015 17:49
Wanderer
Add to the list valuations used by the insurance industry (per square foot) and it comes from costs to replace or build new. This ... Read More
Wednesday, 25 November 2015 08:57
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How to Choose a Shipping Company this Holiday

How to Choose a Shipping Company this Holiday
With the holiday season in full swing, you may find yourself mailing packages all over the country (or world). Unfortunately, some people aren’t lucky enough to see their friends and family in person every holiday season. Before you begin wrapping your gifts, putting them in boxes, and finding a shipping company, here is a question to answer: which shipping provider can best meet your needs? While there are many details to consider, here are three that...
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Frank
One additional thing to consider is buying online and shipping directly to your family/friend. Many companies offer free shipping ... Read More
Monday, 23 November 2015 09:55
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What are the Benefits of Working with an Experienced CPA?

What are the Benefits of Working with an Experienced CPA?
With tax season on its way, now is the time to start thinking about your final return. For many, this leads to one very important question: will you file your own return or hire a CPA? For some, the thought of hiring a CPA is out of the question. They believe this is too expensive. They also have no confidence that the person knows what he or she is doing. Before you jump the gun and...
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Wanderer
Great Blog. Yes, CPA's can be expensive but, in my case they have found things I could depreciate and/or deduct that I didn't thin... Read More
Thursday, 19 November 2015 13:24
Frank
I would agree to what Chris has said as well. If you have a very basic return, a CPA may not be necessary. But in today’s world w... Read More
Friday, 20 November 2015 17:13
Frank
I was speaking with my CPA this weekend about this topic, and he used a great analogy that I thought would be helpful to share. Hi... Read More
Monday, 23 November 2015 09:49
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Make Note of these Tax-Deductible Expenses for the Self-Employed

Make Note of these Tax-Deductible Expenses for the Self-Employed
As a self-employed professional, you are well aware of the pros and cons of working for yourself. Regardless of your industry or how much money you earn, nothing changes the importance of understanding your tax situation. There are many ways to reduce your taxable income, including a variety of deductible expenses. With the year coming to an end, it is time to focus some attention on your tax situation. Once the calendar turns, it won’t be...
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Frank
Below is the IRS link to the home office deduction you referenced. https://www.irs.gov/Businesses/Small-Businesses-&-Self-Employe... Read More
Friday, 20 November 2015 16:55
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The Only Time a Store Credit Card Makes Sense

The Only Time a Store Credit Card Makes Sense
Many stores offer their own exclusive credit card. It is likely you have been presented with such an offer at the cash register. As tempting as it may be to sign on the dotted line, don’t do this just yet. Instead, ask for more information so you can review the offer before making a final decision. The primary benefit of a store credit card is the savings you will receive. For example, you may hear the...
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Finance Globe
Good post Chris, sometimes I cringe at the thought of adding new store cards on FG due to the high rates. Make sure your getting a... Read More
Thursday, 12 November 2015 10:05
Frank
I agree, sometimes people don’t even realize when they get a new store credit card that it is even an actual credit card! You alwa... Read More
Friday, 20 November 2015 16:46
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Should You Use an Insurance Broker to Purchase Life Insurance?

Should You Use an Insurance Broker to Purchase Life Insurance?
When it comes time to purchase life insurance, there are many decisions to make. To start, you must answer this question: will you rely on the services of a broker or contact multiple companies direct? Some people shy away from insurance brokers. They don’t understand how the process works. They don’t believe that the person has their best interests in mind. While there is nothing wrong with being cautious, you should familiarize yourself with the benefits...
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Frank
Great information Chris. While I have never used a broker myself, certain situations can make using a broker a lot of sense. If th... Read More
Thursday, 12 November 2015 16:34
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Can you Shave Money from these Three Budget Categories?

Can you Shave Money from these Three Budget Categories?
Your budget is sure to have both fixed and variable expenses. For example, your mortgage (or rent) and car payment are fixed. They don’t change from month to month. Conversely, there are variable expenses that jump up and down on a monthly basis. Your goal is simple: to shave as much money as possible from these budget categories. By doing so, you will soon find yourself with the ability to save more. Where should you start?...
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Frank
Great information Chris. I would also 3 additional categories you may be able to reduce your expenses: 1. Heat/cooling: In the wi... Read More
Thursday, 05 November 2015 13:45
Finance Globe
Good post Chris, for those without too much discipline: 1. Set up a fixed monthly transfer into another bank account with no fees... Read More
Thursday, 05 November 2015 13:47
Frank
I love that analysis above. This really shows the affect of compounding interest. If you start young, and have a long time horizon... Read More
Monday, 09 November 2015 14:14
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Here are Three Causes of Higher Life Insurance Premiums

Here are Three Causes of Higher Life Insurance Premiums
Are you in the market for life insurance? Have you heard the horror stories regarding the cost? You will never know what a policy will cost until you request and compare a few quotes. Unfortunately, there may be some factors working against you. Here are three primary causes of higher life insurance premiums: 1. You are a smoker. Hands down, this is the number one reason your premium will go through the roof. If you use...
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Frank
I would also add the 3 reasons below. 3 additional reasons for high life insurance premiums 1. Family History, as chronic health ... Read More
Wednesday, 04 November 2015 08:07
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How a Credit Card can Get you in Trouble During the Holidays

How a Credit Card can Get you in Trouble During the Holidays
There is no denying the fact that you will be faced with some additional spending during the holiday season. This is particularly true if you have a long list of people to purchase gifts for. Some people use a “cash system” to guide themselves through the holidays. Others, however, rely on a credit card. While there is nothing wrong with this, you can soon find yourself in financial trouble if you go down the wrong path....
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Frank
Great insight Chris. ALWAYS PAY OFF YOUR CREDIT CARD BALANCE IN FULL! I cannot emphasis that enough. No matter what charges you pu... Read More
Tuesday, 03 November 2015 09:52
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