Understanding a Missed IRS Deadline

It makes sense if you don’t like dealing with taxes. There are other Americans who feel the same way as you do about it. However, it’s essential to file your taxes on time. There are deadlines set by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that you must adhere to or feel the effects, which will not be very pleasant. Depending on the kind of deadline you miss, there will be different consequences. This article will explain how to deal with a missed IRS deadline, along with information on relevant tax assistance programs.

The Latest IRS Deadlines and How They Can Affect You

According to the IRS, around 1.5 million filers failed to file their taxes for the 2018 tax year. To give you some perspective, there were around $1.5 billion in tax refunds that were due. The IRS has estimated that the median return was $813, which means that 50% of refunds were higher and 50% were lower.

However, the deadline for these individuals to file their 2018 taxes was only April 18, 2022 (or April 19, in some states). This deadline was established because, in accordance with the law, taxpayers had three years to file their tax returns in order to be eligible for a refund. This three-year period typically begins on the day that tax returns are due.

Even though the deadline for filing taxes for the majority of people was the one mentioned above, those who requested an extension had more time to do so. They had until October 17, 2022, if they asked for this extension, to file their 2018 tax returns. Normally, the money would go to the US Treasury if your 2018 tax return wasn’t submitted within the three-year timeframe. If you didn’t submit your tax return by the due date, you missed your opportunity to receive a refund.

How to Handle a Missed IRS Deadline

In general, it’s critical to stick to the IRS deadline. However, there will be consequences if you are unable to do so for any reason. Each IRS deadline has certain conditions. In other words, depending on the deadline you missed, you need to take different steps. You should generally seek the advice of a tax expert. They’ll explain to you in detail what you should do, considering your circumstances.

How to Get Support When Filing Your Taxes

The IRS offers a lot of valuable programs and resources accessible for those who need assistance with filing taxes. Therefore, you can seek help from one of these programs. If you’re experiencing problems filing your taxes, you can apply for the following options:

  • Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE)
  • Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)

Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE)

Taxes may be difficult to manage, particularly for older citizens. As a result, the IRS established Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE). Yet the system is run locally by the IRS’s partners. Most of the staff at these locations are basically volunteers. To qualify as trustworthy tax counselors, these volunteers have to meet IRS standards. Participants can get the support they need from them.

People over 60 who meet other eligibility requirements and participate in this support program may be able to receive tax assistance for different types of income related to the elderly. This might include:

  • Retirement plans
  • Pensions
  • Other similar types of support

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)

This program is similar to TCE in operation but has different goals. The IRS offers this program as well, but its partners manage it. Those taking part in this program will also find that volunteers provide assistance. However, this program focuses on a different group of people. VITA seeks to assist those who do not speak English well, have a disability, or typically make no more than $60,000 a year.

How to Get Federal Assistance With Tax Debt

It can be shocking to know that Americans have a tax debt that is worth $527 billion! This shows that a huge number of Americans are struggling with tax debt. However, the IRS actually has an assistance program that can help with that, but not everyone is aware of it. Those with tax debt can apply for debt relief through the IRS’s Fresh Start program. Although it might sound like a single support option, it actually consists of four different assistance options:

Penalty Abatement

Having to pay the IRS a penalty has been a source of stress for many taxpayers. The buildup of these costs can make settling tax debt much more challenging. If you are dealing with this type of problem, you have the opportunity to take advantage of the Penalty Abatement support option. Through this program, you may be able to lower or even get rid of the penalties that come with your tax debt.

It is important to note that the application of this option might be difficult to handle due to specialized language, IRS codes, and other complicated information. For this reason, you should get assistance from a tax specialist when applying for Penalty Abatement.

Offer in Compromise (OIC)

Because there is such a high demand for this option, the IRS typically only accepts less than half of the applications each year. This is because it allows taxpayers with past-due taxes to settle their debts for a lesser amount than they actually owe. As a general rule of thumb, you should seek assistance from a tax expert, especially that the application process can be a bit tricky.

Currently Non-Collectible (CNC)

CNC can be a great option for you if your tax debt has piled up to a point where you are unable to pay it back. With the help of this option, your tax debts will no longer be collected by the government. Nevertheless, in order to benefit from this program, you must first meet the eligibility requirements.

During the application process, you will be required to demonstrate that you cannot repay your debt due to financial issues. Additionally, you must be recognized by the IRS and your state. This is only possible if your gross monthly income falls below the national standard for allowable expenses.

Installment Agreement (IA)

Another fantastic option for those with a significant tax burden is an Installment Agreement (IA). For taxpayers who are unable to pay their tax debt in full at one time, this option can be really beneficial. That’s because it allows them to pay off their tax debt in installments instead of a lump sum. If you wish to use this option, you must show evidence that you won’t be able to pay your tax bill in full. You will also need to provide evidence that you are current on your tax returns and that you are unable to get funding to pay off debt.

Overall

The IRS deadlines are not a joke. If you don’t file your taxes on time, you might lose out on some serious money in tax refunds. However, you will need to seek assistance from a tax expert if you miss an IRS deadline. In addition, the IRS offers tax help services, so make sure to look into them as well. Also, if you are having a hard time dealing with tax debt, you should consider the available support opportunities that the IRS provides, including the Fresh Start program. Using these support options might be a game changer for your financial situation.

 

Food Support Programs from the Government

List-making, shopping, and preparing meals are hard enough. When you add financial hardships on top of that, you’ve got a recipe for disaster! It’s no secret that groceries are expensive these days. The good news is that low-income families may be able to benefit from government assistance. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) funds numerous programs. If you’re curious about what you might be eligible for, this article can help!

What Kind of Support You Can Get from Various Food Assistance Programs

Food insecurity continues to be a consistent issue for a percentage of American households. It’s important that the government continues to fund food assistance programs that can help. When it comes to food assistance, no two programs are the same! Each assistance option serves a different purpose. Some households may even be eligible to benefit from multiple programs at one time. If you’re considering seeking help, you can consider one or more of the following opportunities:

  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
  • Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
  • Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)
  • The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP)
  • Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP)
  • School Breakfast Program (SBP)
  • National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
  • Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP)
  • Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP)
  • Summer Food Service Program (SFSP)

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a government-funded program that provides financial assistance for purchasing groceries. Low-income households can benefit from this support option. It’s likely that you’ve heard of this program before, seeing as it benefits millions of recipients each year. Moreover, it’s been around for many decades. In fact, the very first Food Stamp Program dates all the way back to 1939! You may find that SNAP is commonly referred to as food stamps today.

The program works by distributing monthly funds that can be used at authorized retailers to purchase qualifying food items. Approved recipients of SNAP get their own Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, which is used for payment when making purchases. Recipients can also manage and access their funds using these cards. Not everyone is eligible to receive SNAP. Only applicants that meet certain qualifications can benefit from this food assistance option. The exact criteria vary depending on which state an applicant resides in. If you’re interested in learning more about these benefits, you can do additional research online. It may also be a good idea to speak to someone directly at your state’s SNAP agency.

Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is another widely known food assistance initiative. This program is specifically designed to support pregnant and postpartum women, infants up to one year old, and children aged up to five years old. Low-income individuals that are believed to be at nutritional risk due to poor diet or medical conditions can apply for this program. WIC is administered to millions of recipients each year through a total of 89 agencies. Recipients of  WIC can benefit in multiple ways. The program offers supplemental nutrition assistance, in addition to health care referrals and nutrition education. Specifically, a few of the benefits include:

  • Nutritious food packages include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy products, and proteins.
  • Breastfeeding support through counseling sessions and educational materials.
  • Health screenings for both mother and child.
  • Nutrition education classes cover topics such as meal planning and healthy eating habits.

This program aims to improve the overall well-being of mothers and their young children by providing essential resources. There are around 47,000 approved retailers, 1,900 agencies, and 10,000 clinic sites that WIC recipients can access! Common clinic sites include schools, hospitals, county health departments, and more. If you believe that you could be eligible for this food assistance, reach out to your state’s agency as soon as possible.

Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)

The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) is designed to provide high-quality USDA foods that supplement the diets of low-income Americans. To be eligible for CSFP benefits, individuals must be seniors aged 60 years or older. The assistance that qualifying seniors can receive with this program is typically through food packages. These packages contain nutritious foods that are meant to make up for nutrients that may be lacking in the recipient’s regular diet.

Seniors that can benefit from this program don’t directly benefit from CSFP. Instead, local organizations that are either public or nonprofit and private distribute the aid to eligible individuals. Local organizations are also tasked with deciding who is eligible to receive these food packages. They receive food and other resources from state agencies. CSFP allocates food and funding to participating states and Indian Tribal Organizations (ITOs). To learn more about this program or to find out if you’re eligible, reach out to your state’s CSFP agency!

The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP)

The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) also helps supplement the diets of low-income individuals. Unlike the previous program, CSFP, people of various ages can benefit from TEFAP! Eligibility requirements vary by state but typically include households with incomes below a certain level. In order to access the nutritious food provided through TEFAP, participants can visit local distribution centers like food pantries. This program benefits people in need during tough times by offering food assistance in an emergency. Moreover, this assistance comes at absolutely no cost to the individual.

The government provides this program by providing nutritious USDA foods to state agencies. State agencies then make food and supplies available to local organizations such as food pantries and soup kitchens. Meanwhile, examples of state agencies include food banks. Every state that participates in TEFAP doesn’t receive the same amount of food to distribute. The government looks at both unemployment and poverty rates within each state to determine how much a need there is. If you’re in need of immediate relief, TEFAP may be able to benefit you. You can reach out to your state agency by finding contact information online. The Food and Nutrition website can point you in the right direction.

Farmers’ Market Nutrition Programs (FMNP)

Farmers’ Market Nutrition Programs (FMNP) and one of the previous programs we discussed, WIC, are actually related to each other. Recipients of WIC can qualify for additional food assistance with FMNP. However, not all WIC recipients can get additional benefits from this program. Infants that are younger than four months old cannot receive FMNP vouchers.

This program aims to increase access to fresh fruits and vegetables from local sources. The program distributes vouchers to recipients that can be redeemed at authorized farmers’ markets or roadside stands selling fresh produce. In turn, these local businesses are impacted in a positive way. To learn more about your state’s FMNP voucher program, check out this online resource.

School Breakfast Programs (SBP) 

Certain facilities can take part in the School Breakfast Program (SBP). Participating schools and childcare centers provide qualifying children with a free or reduced-cost breakfast. SBP then reimburses them through cash subsidies for the breakfast that they offer. Income requirements and household status influence the eligibility of a family applying for SBP. In addition to that, families that are already receiving benefits from SNAP or other programs may automatically qualify. Children that are migrants, runaways, currently in the foster system, or experiencing homelessness may also be able to qualify.

The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) funds the program. Whereas, state agencies are responsible for administering the assistance. In addition to that, schools consult with their state agencies if they are participating in the program or want to in the future. Facilities that are able to run SBP include public schools, non-profit private schools, and residential childcare centers.

National School Lunch Programs (NSLP)

The National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and SBP actually have quite a bit in common. This food assistance program provides free or lower-priced lunches to qualifying children. Public schools and private schools are approved to run this program. One important requirement to keep in mind is that the lunches served must be nutritionally balanced. Therefore, they should contain essential nutrients. NSLP requires that the lunches satisfy one-third of the following nutrient categories:

  • Total Calories
  • Vitamin A
  • Vitamin E
  • Iron
  • Calcium
  • Protein

Just like SBP, this program’s eligibility is based on a family’s income level. There are different income limits in place to determine whether a child can get a free lunch or one at a lower cost. Free lunches are awarded to children whose parents make an income that does not exceed 130% of the federal poverty line. Whereas, families that make an income between 130-185% of the poverty level, qualify for discounted lunches. To apply for these benefits, parents must fill out an application form provided by their child’s school. Schools then determine eligibility based on income guidelines set by the government each year.

Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP)

By participating in the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP), low-income seniors can enjoy healthier diets while supporting their local communities. This food assistance program offers access to fresh and locally grown fruits, vegetables, honey, and herbs. Recipients are provided with food vouchers that can be redeemed at approved farmers’ markets or roadside stands.

To qualify for the SFMNP benefits, individuals must meet certain age and income requirements. Participants must be 60 years or older and have a household income of 185% or less than the federal poverty level. For more info on qualifying criteria, check out the website of your state’s agency.

Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP)

The goal of the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) is to increase fruit and vegetable consumption among children attending qualifying elementary schools. By providing free fresh produce as a snack option throughout the school year, this program promotes healthier eating practices. In addition to that, they work to educate children on the importance of positive nutritional habits. Examples of the fresh produce that is served with FFVP include:

  • Fruits: Apples, oranges, bananas, grapes, kiwi fruit, pears, cherry tomatoes
  • Veggies: Carrot sticks, cucumber slices
  • Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries

Note: All fruits and vegetables should be fresh, unprocessed, and without added sugars, fats, salts, or preservatives.

Summer Food Service Program (SFSP)

This program is commonly known as the Summer Meals Program. SFSP provides free meals to children and teens up until the age of 18 years old during the summer months. Facilities that operate this program are reimbursed as compensation for the meals they serve to kids. Although SFSP is federally funded, it is state-operated. The state agencies that operate this program partner with sites and sponsors to make it happen. Sponsors typically include schools and local nonprofits. Meanwhile, sites can include hospitals, churches, local parks, community centers, and more.

Bottom Line

When it comes to nutrition assistance, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides a variety of opportunities. Most food assistance programs require specific eligibility criteria in order to benefit. Not only that, many of the programs are state-run. Therefore, eligibility may vary between different areas. If any of the programs we covered in this article caught your eye, we recommend that you do additional research. Your best source for additional information is your state’s corresponding agency. They will be able to provide you with the most up-to-date and accurate information. A quick online search can provide you with the correct contact information to move forward.

 

See Which States are Providing 2023 Stimulus Payments

2023 is bringing lots of change for people across the country. One change, in particular, is that certain people are still able to get stimulus payments! However, not everyone is able to get stimulus support. It is only available to residents who live in certain states. While this article will aim to shed some light on some of the states that are helping out their residents, we do want to provide a friendly reminder! The best place to get the most recent information for your state is directly from them! You should always make sure you stay updated so that if any stimulus opportunities come up that aren’t on this list, you can still take advantage of them.

Understanding Which Residents Can Benefit from a 2023 Stimulus Payment

Certain residents can consider themselves lucky if they live in any of the following seven states:

  • Massachusetts
  • Idaho
  • Colorado
  • Illinois
  • Pennsylvania
  • California
  • New Jersey

Massachusetts

Different states have different laws that determine how they operate and handle their finances. Massachusetts is no exception to this. This state has limits in place when it comes to how much the state can bring in each year. If these limits are passed, then the state will need to figure out what to do with the extra funds. Generally speaking, the extra funds can go back to certain residents (a.k.a taxpayers from the state). They will be in the form of a refund through a tax credit that is worth 14.03% of their state personal income tax liability based on the tax year of 2021. That means in order to benefit from this opportunity, a taxpayer will need to file their 2021 taxes by the deadline of September 15th, 2023. People may cut it close to the wire and those who do can expect to get their funds roughly by October 15th, 2023.

Idaho

Tax rebate payments started going out back in 2022 in Idaho. Even though this is the case, some residents still may see their payment in 2023. The deadline to file their 2020 and 2021 taxes was December 31st, 2022 (and this is a factor that was needed in order to qualify!). The amount of money that people can get from these payments varies but it will be the largest from these opportunities:

  • 10% of the tax amount that was reported on specific forms
  • $300 for a filer who is an individual
  • $600 for people who are filing jointly

Those who are able to get a payment can expect them as either a paper check or as a direct deposit. This means that when they will get them depends on the tax filer specifically!

Colorado

Just like other states on this list, Colorado has limits on how much the state can bring in each year. When these limits are passed, the funds will go back to certain residents (unless there is a vote done by the taxpayers that allow the state to keep any additional revenue). For the fiscal year between 2021 and 2022 for the state, the limits were passed and there was no vote telling the state to keep the funds. That means that taxpayers can get at most $1,500 depending on their tax filing status. The last date that people were able to file their relevant state income tax return was October 17th, 2022. Those who are able to get a payment can anticipate that their refund will come in by January 31st, 2023.

Illinois

There are a couple of opportunities in Illinois that are providing a stimulus payment to residents in 2023 which include:

  • Property Tax Rebate
  • Individual Income Tax Rebate

Each opportunity will be able to provide a different amount of money. For example, for the Property Tax Rebate, up to $300 is available to qualified taxpayers. On the other hand, when it comes to the Individual Income Tax Rebate, the most people can get is $400. For both of these opportunities, factors will come into play:

  • Residency status
  • Income requirements
  • Tax filing status

When people will be able to actually get their payments depends on a few factors. However, the last day to file the relevant taxes was October 17th, 2022. On top of that, taxpayers need to account for the processing time which could be 130 days!

Pennsylvania

Certain people in this state can get up to $975. Keep in mind that like many opportunities on this list, the stimulus is only available to certain people. In this case, this includes those that are one of the following:

  • At least 18 years old if they have a disability
  • At least 50 years old if they are a widow (or widower)
  • Elderly which means being at least 65 years old (if not older)

California

California residents were able to benefit from the Middle Class Tax Refund (MCTR). Although payments started going out towards the end of 2022, people may actually receive them sometime in 2023. For this opportunity, in particular, some people may have seen their payments come in January 2023. The form that these payments will be in varies but can be a debit card or a direct deposit payment. The payments can be worth up to $1,050. To actually receive this payment, the following factors are considered:

  • Tax filing status
  • Residency status
  • Income limits

New Jersey

Lots of things may come to mind when people think of New Jersey. Regardless, New Jersey provided residents the opportunity to get aid from the ANCHOR property tax relief program. They had until January 31st, 2023 to get an application in for this benefit. There are opportunities for up to:

  • $1,500 for homeowners
  • $450 for renters

In Conclusion

When people think of 2023, they may not realize that there are stimulus opportunities out there for this year. However, instead of stimulus payments going out at a nationwide level, they are going out at the state level (and only for certain states!). This article detailed seven of these states that are providing some sort of stimulus to their residents in 2023. However, it’s important to check with your state specifically even if it wasn’t on this list. You want to make sure you aren’t missing out on any potential opportunities of support!

 

The Home Store from HUD

There are many services available from the HUD (United States Department of Housing and Urban Development) that can make it easier to find low-cost housing. The “HUD Home Store” is a useful resource they offer. It is a website where you can find information about housing programs offered by the government.

Different Property Types Available on the HUD Home Store

Surprisingly, there are plenty of options for homebuyers to consider when they look on the HUD Home Store. On this website, users can see:

  • HUD-Listed Foreclosures
  • Dollar Home Program Listings
  • Good Neighbor Next Door (GNND) Properties

This website serves as a catalog of available HUD REO single-family homes. The acronym REO means “real estate owned.” Users can use the site’s search function to find available HUD homes. The website can be useful not only for potential homebuyers, but also for state and local governments. Even real estate agencies and brokers! It helps them check available property listings.

In fact, this website has more than just listings to offer. Registered agencies and real estate brokers can place bids on behalf of their customers to purchase one of the properties featured on the site. Moreover, through this site, homebuyers can get valuable information and guidance to help them through the home-buying process.

In general, properties go through an evaluation before being listed on the website. The purpose of this evaluation is to determine whether the property can be sold exclusively through authorized non-profit organizations or local governments. You can expect to find these properties in designated revitalization areas.

In case the property is not eligible for any special programs like $1 Homes or GNND Homes, there will be a priority system for homebuyers. Potential buyers who intend to use the property as their primary residence will be the top priority. Any properties that haven’t been sold by the end of a specific timeframe will be available to any potential buyer.

HUD-Listed Foreclosures

There may be more housing options, but this one steals the show on the site. These residences range in size from one to four units and are available as a result of foreclosure. This type of foreclosed property has a unique condition, as they have to be covered by an FHA loan. An FHA loan is a special type of loan that people can get from The Federal Housing Administration (FHA), which is a division of the HUD. If a mortgage is insured by the FHA and defaults, HUD will take the title of the property. Later, they sell it to recoup any losses.

How Do People Purchase These Houses?

You can submit an offer to purchase the property listed on the site through any real estate broker who is approved by HUD. Because of staffing shortages, HUD has difficulty providing assistance in other areas of the home-buying process that brokers usually take care of. Which is why working with a broker can be essential!

There is some paperwork that a real estate broker must complete if they want to start selling these properties through HUD. After everything is signed and sealed, it must be submitted to the local HUD Homeownership Center. Once this is complete, HUD will provide the broker with an NAID (which is an address identification number) and a name. That way, real estate brokers can promote HUD properties and make offers on them.

What Condition Are These Properties in?

Properties listed as a consequence of foreclosure are being offered “as-is.” So, HUD won’t pay for fixing up the place if something happens to it. This means that the new homeowner will have to pay for any necessary maintenance and renovations.

Dollar Home Program Listings

Thanks to HUD, local governments get a chance to buy properties for only $1! These properties have special conditions because they have to be in foreclosure. Not only that, but the house’s value must not exceed $25,000, and it has to be on the market for more than 6 months. When local governments get these homes, they usually make the necessary repairs. Then they offer these homes to those who qualify for housing assistance. These assistance opportunities are available for eligible people thanks to the collaboration between local governments and local homeownership non-profits. The governments could also decide to take part in local programs that help resell these homes to eligible people.

Good Neighbor Next Door (GNND) Properties

The goal of the HUD GNND program is to provide assistance with housing costs for people in certain occupations. Eligibility standards for this program vary by field of work. The following occupations are eligible for GNND:

  • Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs)
  • Firefighters
  • Teachers (from pre-k to12th-grade)
  • Law Enforcement Officers

A half off discount on the listing price is available through this program on qualifying properties for eligible people. The buyer has to live in the house as their main home for at least 36 months. Furthermore, the properties must be located in revitalization areas.

The HUD Home Store is where you can look for available properties under this program, but you should know that there are only a few of them. Since these homes are only available for sale for 7 days, listings will change weekly. If you come across a good GNND property, you need to submit your interest in it according to the rules laid out. What if multiple people submit interest in the same property? In this situation, the recipient of the property will be determined by a lottery.

The buyer of such a property will also be required to sign a second mortgage as well as a note for the discount amount. No interest or payments will be due as long as the buyer completes the other requirements, such as staying in the property for a specific amount of time.

Who Can Participate in This Program?

Like we said earlier, participation in this program is only for people holding the following positions:

  • Firefighters or Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs)
  • Law Enforcement Officers
  • Teachers

Firefighters or Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs)

Firefighters and emergency medical technicians can be eligible for this opportunity only if they:

  • Hold a full-time position with a fire department or EMS unit.
  • Offer their services to the neighborhood surrounding the home they want to purchase.

Law Enforcement Officers

Law enforcement officers can be eligible for this opportunity only if they:

  • Be a full-time employee of the federal government, a state, a municipality, or an Indian Tribal government’s law enforcement agency.
  • Have sworn to uphold the law and arrest those who break it.
  • Offer their services to the neighborhood surrounding the home they want to purchase.

Teachers

Teachers can be eligible for this opportunity only if they:

  • Hold a full-time teaching position in a pre-K–12 institution (private or public) recognized by the state.
  • Offer their services to the neighborhood surrounding the home they want to purchase.

Overall

The HUD Home Store is a good place to start looking for a house to buy. The following listings can be found on the website:

  • HUD-Listed Foreclosures
  • Dollar Home Program Listings
  • Good Neighbor Next Door (GNND) Properties

You might find what you need on this website if you take the time to explore your options. Don’t rule out this resource just yet!

What to Know About EBT Cards

You may have seen an ad or two about Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards. Unfortunately, not a lot of people know about these cards, let alone what they can do! People who find it hard to afford groceries could find this opportunity useful. If you are one of those who do not know about EBT cards, then this article is a great point to start!

Making Sense of Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Cards

These EBT cards are meant to support those who need assistance with grocery costs, as a part of a federal assistance program. The federal government created programs that work through an electronic system and these cards are part of that system. One example of these federal programs that use EBT cards is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Since 2004, the only way for recipients to use SNAP funds is through these EBT cards. However, you should keep in mind that recipients can only use EBT cards in supermarkets and stores that accept this kind of payment.

Additionally, support options such as the Summer EBT also used EBT cards. The Summer EBT program was designed to help children and families who faced financial struggles during summer months. These states have approval to run this program for the 2024 summer year amongst several others:

  • Minnesota
  • New Jersey
  • North Carolina
  • Ohio
  • Rhode Island
  • Wisconsin

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

It is difficult to properly understand the function of EBT cards unless you have a good grasp on SNAP and its benefits. SNAP is a federal assistance program that is meant to offer financial relief to people who cannot afford monthly groceries. This program was created by the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). If someone wants to receive SNAP benefits, they need to meet certain conditions of eligibility.

The Amount You Can Receive

How much you can receive from SNAP will be based on your and your family’s current circumstances. However, there are maximum benefits that are set, which depend on how many family members you have. Most states that provide SNAP apply the maximum amounts stated below:

  • 1 person household can receive a maximum benefit of $291
  • 2 person household can receive a maximum benefit of $535
  • 3 person household can receive a maximum benefit of $766
  • 4 person household can receive a maximum benefit of $973
  • 5 person household can receive a maximum benefit of $1,155
  • 6 person household can receive a maximum benefit of $1,386
  • 7 person household can receive a maximum benefit of $1,532
  • 8 person household can receive a maximum benefit of $1,751
  • A household of more than 8 people can receive a maximum benefit of $219 per extra person

It is important to remember that these amounts are not going to be the same forever. However, those stated above will apply from October 1st, 2023 until September 30th, 2024. The SNAP funds you get will be transferred onto an EBT card for you to use!

Things You Can Purchase With SNAP Funds

SNAP works on supporting people with groceries, but there are some things that SNAP does not consider as grocery items. The program offers a list of eligible and ineligible items that EBT cards can buy. Eligible grocery items are as follows:

  • Vegetables and fruit
  • Meat, fish, and poultry
  • Cereals and bread
  • Dairy products
  • Snacks
  • Beverages without alcohol
  • Plants (and seeds) that produce food that the family can consume

However, some of the ineligible grocery items are:

  • Beverages with alcohol
  • Live animals, but there are exceptions
  • Food that is sold hot
  • Non-grocery items (including products used for hygiene, food for your pet, cleaning supplies, and so on
  • Supplements, vitamins, and medications

The SNAP Application Process

If you want to start applying for SNAP, then you should contact your state’s SNAP agency. You can contact them through:

  • Your state agency’s website
  • The toll-free information hotline for SNAP
  • A visit to your state agency

These options can give you the opportunity to apply. However, since each state has its own version of SNAP, the details of applying will vary based on where you live. Generally, your state agency or local SNAP office will take 30 days to process your application. Once they process your application, you will find out your eligibility. During the processing period, you should go through an eligibility interview and offer evidence that proves the information on your application.

The Amount of Time You Can Receive Support From SNAP

If you get SNAP approval, then the program will let you know how long you can receive benefits. This is known as the certification period. When your certification period expires, the program will notify you so that you can recertify. If you want to keep receiving SNAP benefits, then you should recertify!

If You Do Not Accept the SNAP Decision, Then What Happens?

In the case that SNAP refuses your application, then you have the option of requesting a fair hearing. This hearing will take place with a federal officer that is legally required to look through your case in an objective and fair way. If you want to submit a hearing request, then you should submit it within 90 days (which is roughly 3 months) of the decision regarding your SNAP application. Submitting a request can take place face-to-face, on the phone, or online.

The Final Verdict

If you find your corner supermarket hanging a sign that says they accept EBT cards, then they are talking about SNAP benefits. Similar to debit cards, these cards are a tool used as part of an electronic system. You have the option of using EBT cards at eligible retailers that accept this payment type. However, you can only purchase certain grocery items that are eligible. SNAP is a federal nutrition assistance program that supports eligible families that need relief. This is how individuals and families can get EBT cards. The program transfers funds to these cards every month for the recipient to use. If you want to get benefits from this program, then you can contact your local SNAP office or your state’s SNAP agency.

Your Guide to The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP)

Thanks to the government, a large number of supporting programs are available. People typically imagine receiving help directly when they think of government programs, but this isn’t always the case. Certain programs can still provide support even if it is not directly given to individuals in need. The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) is an example of this type of program.

What Does CACFP Mean?

Even though this program is funded federally, the states are the ones to administer the program. CACFP provides reimbursements to participating child care centers, day cares, and adult day cares. The reimbursements are for nutritional food like snacks and meals that go towards eligible children and adults. The reimbursements for nutritious meals go to:

  • Youth who are part of after-school care programs
  • Youth who live in emergency shelters
  • Adults who are 60 years old or more, or who live with a disability in a daycare center

This program has the ability to add to the healthy growth, development, and wellness of America’s children as well as the wellness of qualifying adults. You might be wondering how it can truly benefit Americans in need since facilities are the ones who receive the reimbursements. Truth is, nutritious meals and snacks are offered to over 4.2 million children and 138,000 adults every day through CACFP.

What is the Process of CACFP?

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has agencies that help them handle different food programs. One branch of the USDA is the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). The FNS handles the administration of this program by providing grants to states. Once the states receive these grant funds, they can handle the operation of the program.

Even though it’s different from one state to the other, states may be responsible for managing CACFP with the help of their state education agency. Some other states choose to manage CACFP using the help of other agencies such as their own state health agency or social services department. The governor of each state will decide which agency will be responsible for managing the CACFP.

Facilities that are interested in participating in this program must reach a deal with the state administrative agency. Under this deal, the institution would be in charge of managing the CACFP’s finances and administrative activities. The following places provide a number of CACFP benefit opportunities:

  • Childcare Facilities
  • Daycare Centers
  • Programs for Afterschool Care
  • Emergency Shelters
  • Centers for Adult Daycare

Childcare Facilities

Participation in the CACFP is open to institutions that hold a license (or approval) to provide daycare services. They can carry it out on their own or as household centers. This includes:

  • Public Child Care Facilities
  • Private Nonprofit Child Care Facilities
  • Centers for Childcare Services for Outside of School Hours
  • Head Start programs

Depending on whether the child is eligible for paid, reduced-price, or free meals, different reimbursement rates will apply to the meals provided at these institutions.

Daycare Centers

If a family daycare center or group daycare home that is licensed or approved wants to participate in CACFP, they must sign a deal with a householding organization. The eligibility for tier I or tier II rates will determine the rate of reimbursement.

Programs for Afterschool Care

Many after-school care programs are offered in the local community. These programs can take part in CACFP while allowing at-risk teenagers to take part in activities that are rewarding The program can be made available in places where at least 50% of the children are eligible for free or reduced-price meals.

Emergency Shelters

Participation in the CACFP is open to public or private nonprofit emergency shelters that offer housing and food services to young individuals who are homeless. They are eligible for reimbursement for up to three daily meals that are provided to the young people who stay at the shelter.

Centers for Adult Daycare

CACFP is also available for nonprofit private adult day care centers and public adult day care centers that provide specific services to non-residential adults. They can choose to do this as an independent entity or as Household centers. Depending on whether the adult is eligible for paid, reduced-price, or free meals, different reimbursement rates will apply to the meals provided at these institutions.

Other Food Support Programs to Take into Account

There are many more food support options other than CACFP that might be able to help. Among them are:

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

One of the most popular food support programs available to Americans is SNAP. Monthly payments are made to eligible recipients through an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. It’s a common misconception that people can use these cards anywhere. Instead, they can only be used at stores that consider them an acceptable form of payment. At the stores that accept these cards, the funds can only be used towards buying qualifying grocery items!

The amount of money these programs can offer each month depends on the participant’s information, such as family size, income level, etc. You must contact your state agency if you would like to receive benefits from this program. To do this, go to your nearest SNAP office, visit their website, or call their toll-free SNAP information line.

Special Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

This specific form of food assistance program targets mothers, children, and babies. The following individuals are able to benefit from this program:

  • People who are pregnant
  • People who are postpartum
  • Babies up until the age of one
  • Kids until the age of five

Through supplemental nutritional meals, counseling, education, screenings, health recommendations, etc., this program can offer support. You would need to make an appointment with your local or state agency to apply for this program.

Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)

After a natural disaster, this program may help eligible households with their food needs. However, a state must get an Individual Assistance declaration from the president to run this program. They must receive FNS approval to run the program after receiving this declaration. An Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card will be used if a household is eligible to receive benefits. The money on the card can only be used on eligible groceries at places that accept them as a form of payment. You should keep an eye out for information from your state through the local media if you want to apply for this program.

To Sum Up

Through eligible facilities, the CACFP can help people in eligible families. Countless people can benefit from this opportunity. In fact, millions of children and over 100,000 adults are able to take advantage of this program. The support that comes from CACFP is through reimbursements for nutritional food like snacks and meals. These reimbursements are paid to facilities that provide the support. Other than this program, some other food support programs include:

  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
  • Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
  • Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)

There are a lot of opportunities to consider. If you need food support just know that there are opportunities that you should check out

Your Guide to CSFP

The federal government understands that not all Americans can afford to buy groceries. Many food support programs exist to support individuals with food aid to solve this common concern. One of the programs provided is the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP). This article will explain how CSFP works and how it may benefit you.

Information About the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)

CSFP helps low-income seniors who are at least 60 years old with nutritional support. The target of this program is to provide qualifying people with healthy foods from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The USDA provides the participating states and certain Indian Tribal Organizations with both food and money to run the program. CSFP is run at the federal level by the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), an agency of the USDA. The Agriculture and Consumer Protection Act of 1973 authorized the CSFP.

Benefits of CSFP

Even though the food that CSFP provides will not be enough to satisfy a person’s entire diet, it is still a beneficial support opportunity. The reason that it’s still beneficial is that CSFP supplements nutritious foods for those that are eligible. The number of people who participate in the program on average is about 676,000 participants per month throughout the year.

Here is a list of food you can find in the CSFP food packages:

  • Different types of milk
  • Juice
  • Grains and dry beans
  • Peanut butter and ready-to-eat cereal
  • Poultry and canned meat
  • Canned fruits and vegetables

Where You Can Find CSFP

Luckily, CSFP is available in all 50 states of America, in addition to other places such as the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and Indian Tribal Organizations (ITOs). However, only these ITOs are approved to be participating in CSFP:

  • Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians (CA)
  • Oglala Sioux (SD)
  • Seminole Nation (OK)
  • Spirit Lake Sioux Tribe (ND)
  • Red Lake (MN)

Depending on certain service areas, states may institute local residency rules. However, states can’t have a minimum duration of residency. Applicants must also be at nutritional risk, on top of other requirements. A doctor or a member of the local agency’s staff can determine whether someone is at nutritional risk. Contact your local CSFP state agency if you want to find out more about the program or start the application process.

Other Options for Food Assistance Programs

There are other food aid programs other than CSFP that might help those who are struggling. These programs are:

  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
  • Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
  • Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program

This is a support opportunity that allows those in need (who qualify) to receive assistance purchasing groceries. People who qualify for SNAP may get benefits in the form of an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. Each month, these cards are loaded with money that can be used at stores that accept the EBT card as payment, to purchase qualifying items. The amount that individuals are entitled to receive will depend on details in their application, such as family size and average income. The maximum benefits of this program between October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024, are:

  • $291 for a one-person household
  • $535 for a two-person household
  • $766 for a three-person household
  • $973 for a four-person household
  • $1,155 for a five-person household
  • $1,386 for a six-person household
  • $1,532 for a seven-person household
  • $1,751 for a eight-person household, with $219 for each extra person

These maximum values only apply to households in the 48 neighboring states and the District of Columbia. For households located in Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, there are different maximums.

Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

In the same way that CSFP concentrates on certain groups, so does WIC. This program can help qualifying households. This means those who deal with nutritional issues. These people include individuals who are:

  • Pregnant (during the pregnancy and up to 6 weeks after the baby is born or the pregnancy ends)
  • Breastfeeding for the baby’s first year
  • Not breastfeeding for up to 6 months following the birth of the baby or the end of the pregnancy
  • Babies up until the age of one and children up until the age of five

Benefits for those who qualify include access to more healthy food, nutrition support at WIC clinics, healthcare referrals, healthcare screenings, welfare services, social services, and more. The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) is in charge of providing this program at the federal level, however, it is run by 89 WIC state agencies with around 47,000 authorized stores. You should contact your state or local agency to schedule an appointment if you want to find out more about how to take advantage of this program.

Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)

D-SNAP offers food assistance to eligible households struggling with food loss or damage that are related to a natural disaster. For the program to run, a state must wait until the president makes a declaration of Individual Assistance. Once the state receives this declaration, it must ask the FNS for approval to operate the program.

Qualifying recipients will get an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card after the state approves. The general requirements are in line with the program’s focus on helping people who are struggling due to a disaster. If a person is dealing with any of the following disaster-related expenses, they may be eligible:

  • Business and home repairs
  • Temporary shelter costs
  • Evacuation and moving costs
  • Personal injury costs
  • Funeral costs
  • Loss of or decrease in income because of a disaster during a good length of the benefit period

Keep an eye out for information from your state agency if you wish to apply or find out more. You may discover more about how to apply, what requirements are needed, and other information from your state agency.

To Sum up

There are several options available when it comes to opportunities for food assistance. The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) is one option. Senior citizens who qualify for this program and are low-income may benefit from added nutritional support. Other than this option, other programs to think about include:

  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
  • Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
  • Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)

You may need food assistance at any point in the future. It’s best to stay up to date with available programs that help!

How to Sell Your Stuff Online

Decluttering is essential for a clean home. When you declutter your home, you can also make money from your old stuff. Plenty of homeowners do this, especially those who think of the future. You can, too! There might be some things that you are emotionally attached to, but you should think ahead and prioritize what is important.

It’s Time to Declutter–And Maybe Make Some Money!

After you declutter, you might find a lot of old things that you no longer need. If you end up finding things you no longer need, you should think about selling your stuff for extra cash. Before you sell your old stuff, you should keep some things in mind.

Look For Where You Can Promote and Put Your Things Up For Sale

There are many different online sources that can promote your stuff to online users. You should consider using sources like Nextdoor and Facebook Marketplace. These two sources are a great place to start selling your stuff.

Prepare for People to Ask Questions

Describing your product can be tricky, which is why you should offer as many details as possible. It is crucial to take pictures of what you are selling from different angles and mention any damages. Keep in mind that measurements are important, especially when it comes to selling big pieces of furniture, like a couch or a bed. Also, make sure you get ready for any questions that might come your way on what you are selling. When you answer questions, be as transparent as possible to your potential buyers.

Do not forget to answer questions from potential buyers, no matter how simple the question might be. You shouldn’t keep someone waiting, especially if they plan on buying your old stuff for a good price. If you take too much time, they will eventually move on and buy something else with a better offer. Make sure to take the opportunity when it presents itself.

Make Sure Your Prices are Affordable

As tempting as it sounds to set a high price on your old stuff, overpricing won’t do you any good. Even though you want to generate good money from every sale, you should think about your public image first. Furthermore, you want your stuff to sell, so pick a reasonable price. No one would be interested in paying that much money for an old piece of furniture.

Think About Selling To Antique Shops and Other Commercial Spaces

If you can’t find any options online to sell your stuff, then why not take it to the streets instead? Why not consider antique shops? They could pay you good money if you have an antique item that they find value in. Furthermore, you should explore your options as best as you can. If nothing works, then you can always throw your stuff away.

Alternative Ways to Make More Income

If you want to make additional cash, then you can do so in a lot of ways. Many side jobs can offer extra money each month, like:

  • Delivering Food and Groceries
  • Offering Your Car For Rent
  • Working as a Freelancer Online
  • Providing Service as a Babysitter or Dog Sitter

Delivering Food and Groceries

A lot of people depend on delivery services for food and groceries. Since many people might not want to leave their homes or simply don’t have time, many platforms offer food delivery and grocery delivery. For food delivery, UberEats and Grubhub are great platforms to work for as side hustles. If you work in the food delivery business, how much you make depends on the area you are in, how many deliveries you make, and so on. You may be surprised by just how much you can earn from delivering groceries. Like we said, the specific amount varies, but you could reach about $39,000 a year on average.

Offering Your Car For Rent

Nowadays, there are new opportunities to earn money that you might not have heard of. One of these new ways is offering your car for rent. If you do not use your car often, others can use it instead. There are online resources that can help you rent out your car to other people. These platforms will help you to choose an available time, the price you want, and address any insurance issues you might have.

Working as a Freelancer Online

Online freelancing is a great option for a side hustle because there are so many opportunities out there. You have the freedom of choice when deciding what kind of job you get. You can pick your job based on factors like your skills, your interests, your goals, etc. Some of the most popular jobs as a freelancer are proofreaders, virtual assistants, graphic designers, and accountants. A lot of people prefer to work as a freelancer because these kinds of jobs are flexible on the experience and level of education needed.

Providing Service as a Babysitter or Dog Sitter

If you are great with kids or dogs, then you can always consider working as a babysitter or a dog sitter. As a babysitter, you can work on your parenting skills and make extra money. You will be able to offer your services as a babysitter on different online platforms, such as Facebook or Care.com. You can also decide how much you charge for your babysitting services and when you want to work. Furthermore, you can do the same with dog sitting. You can decide on your rate or you can use an online platform to deal with everything for you, like Rover. Consider your free time carefully so you do not affect your regular schedule too much. Remember, even if you work once a week, you can still make extra cash.

Look for Unclaimed Money or Properties You Might Have Forgotten About

This is not an extra job and no one can guarantee any money out of it, but it is still a good option to consider. A lot of people are unaware that they have money or properties that belong to them, just waiting to be claimed. Fortunately, you can look through your state and find out if you have any unclaimed money or assets. Each state has their own search engine tool. This tool is legit since it is provided by the state’s treasurer! It can help people search through the unclaimed properties database to see what they may be due.

If You Are Still Tight With Money, Then Maybe…

If you tried to sell your old stuff, looked for side jobs, checked if you were due any unclaimed properties, but still needed more money, you aren’t out of luck just yet. You can still consider other options like:

  • Think About Changing Up Your Lifestyle
  • Think About Finding a Cheaper and Smaller Alternative to Your Current Home

Think About Changing Up Your Lifestyle

There is a possibility that you might need to change your lifestyle to help enhance your financial situation. The first thing you need to do is establish a budget. You can create a simple budget by looking through your monthly spending. This could include shelter, groceries, extra expenses, utility bills, and so on. After that, you should look at your income, which is the money that comes in each month. Your budget can help you understand which areas you should start cutting down on your spending. Once you look through your expenses, you can start looking for different ways to reduce your spending. The first place to start would be your home because you might need to downsize and find a more affordable option.

Think About Finding a Cheaper and Smaller Alternative to Your Current Home

If you live in a house that has another room that you do not need, then you can always move into a smaller home. For example, in the case that you live in a three-bedroom apartment, you can try to move into a two-bedroom apartment instead. That way you can save a couple of hundred dollars each month. Another option would be finding a roommate, where you can divide the costs with them on living expenses. This could include rent, food, and bills!

In Conclusion

A great way to make money and get rid of your old stuff is by selling it. The things you might not need anymore could be exactly what someone else is looking for! However, that might not be enough to cover the expenses you need to pay for. If that is the case, then you should consider a side hustle. You do not need to shift careers, just something temporary to make ends meet. Also, you can make some lifestyle changes that could lower your expenses. For example, you could find a roommate to split your bills with or move somewhere cheaper until you get your finances in check. Don’t worry, there are many ways to get out of a financially tight spot. You just need to dedicate yourself as best as you can.

Ways to Improve Your Credit

Dealing with credit can be difficult for most Americans, and you’re not the only one who may feel this way. Your credit score may not look good, but there are ways to help! A lot of people work on improving their credit standing and you can do it too. As a matter of fact, you can start improving your credit sooner than you think!

What You Should Know About Your Credit Score

If you want to improve your credit, you should know more about your credit score. What is your credit score? Your credit score is a number that could range from 300 to 850. This score defines how creditworthy a consumer can be, which shows how trustworthy a person is with their credit. If your credit score is good, then lenders will see you as a reliable borrower.

How is your credit score calculated? It is calculated from the information in your credit report. Your credit report has a lot of credit account information. This includes the number of active credit accounts you have, how much debt you have, the background of your payments, and so on. The agency responsible for calculating your credit score are credit bureaus. There are two scoring models that credit bureaus use to calculate a person’s credit score. These two scoring models are the FICO credit model and the VantageScore credit model. Generally, the most common scoring model credit bureaus use is the FICO model.

What Affects Your Credit Score?

The information from your credit report will affect your credit score in different ways. You will find that this information is divided into five different categories. These categories have their own unique effects on your credit report. The five aspects that affect your credit score include:

  • Background of Payments (35%)
  • Credit Usage Ratio (30%)
  • Age of Credit (15%)
  • Hard Pulls (10%)
  • Different Types of Credit (10%)

Background of Payments (35%)

Background of payments is the most important aspect that affects your credit score. It accounts for 35% of your score. This aspect includes any late payments you have, how late you made these payments, payments you made on time, accounts that went to collection, and so on. Since lenders are interested in knowing more about you as a borrower, then this will help them figure you out!

Credit Usage Ratio (30%)

How much money you owe compared to your total available credit is your credit usage ratio. This is the second aspect on the list and it can affect your credit score by 30%. Your credit usage ratio focuses on how much credit you are using compared to your total credit limit.

If you want to know more about the credit utilization ratio, then let’s give you an example. Let’s say you have a Discover credit card with an amount of $3,000 dollars in credit. This $3,000 amount becomes your credit limit. If you have $1,800 spent on this card, this is known as your credit utilization because it is compared to the full credit limit of $3,000. $1,800 is 60% of your limit, which is excessive! It is best to try to keep your credit utilization ratio at or below 30%. With a $3,000 limit, you shouldn’t spend no more than $900 to keep at this percentage.

Age of Credit (15%) 

The background of your credit is also known as how old your credit is. The age of your credit includes the following aspects:

  • The amount of time you have had credit
  • The oldest and newest credit account you have
  • The average age of your credit

This might not be the most influential aspect of your credit score, but it still impacts 15% of your credit score.

Hard Pulls (10%) 

Hard pulls (also known as hard inquiries) affect 10% of your credit score. It might not be a lot, but it is still something to be aware of. There are two types of inquiries on your credit score: soft inquiries and hard inquiries. Soft inquiries do not affect your credit. On the other hand, hard inquiries affect your credit and need written authorization from the account holder. When lenders want to know more about the potential risk they could face with you, they might ask for a hard inquiry on your credit. This allows them to check your credit information and it generally happens within the underwriting process. Fortunately, hard inquiries fall off after roughly two years, so you do not need to stress out about it a lot.

Different Kinds of Credit (10%)

The last aspect that affects your credit score is different kinds of credit, which amounts to 10%. Similar to hard pulls, this might not be the most important aspect. However, you should be aware of it from time to time. Different kinds of credit include installment loans, credit cards, and so on. A wide range of credit means that you have better credit health than those who only have one type of credit. However, you do not need to actively work on getting different types of credit for a good score.

Fixing Your Credit

Customers can receive a free credit report once every year. You can check out your free report through the Annual Credit Report website. There are different ways that you can make your credit score better if it does not seem like it’s in great shape. Despite the fact that it can feel overwhelming, there are more options than you think. The best way to improve your credit score is to work on how you manage your personal credit.

Properly Managing Your Personal Credit

You should consider fixing your credit on your own, which will improve your credit score and help you develop better habits. Properly managing your personal credit can include doing the following:

  • Fighting Back On Any False Information
  • Make Sure You Pay Your Bills by the Due Date and You’re Repaying Your Debt
  • Keeping Your Credit Utilization Rate Lower Than 30%
  • Making Sure to Report Any Extra Accounts
  • Request Assistance from a Credit Counseling Organization

Fighting Back on Any False Information

Once you receive your credit report, you should look for any inaccurate information that might affect your credit score. Inaccurate or false information includes errors in your identity, inaccurate account status information, data management concerns, and so on. You can then fight back any inaccurate information with credit bureaus. The process of fighting back might seem hard, but it does not need to be. Credit bureaus need to report correct information on your credit report. Pointing out false information and how they are invalid can get them dropped from your report. Once the credit bureau removes the false information from your report, their negative effect will fall off and you might find your score improving in time.

Make Sure You Pay Your Bills by the Due Date and Repay Your Debt

Since payment history is such an important aspect when it comes to your credit score, you should manage it as best as you can. You should make sure to pay your expenses on time when they reach their deadline to fix your credit score. If you forget about paying your bills, then you should consider placing automatic payments.

When you set up automatic payments, your bank account automatically transfers money to your bills. You do not have to worry and constantly remind yourself to pay your bills with this feature. Make sure that you know when the payments are going through so that you can check your bank account to make sure the funds have been transferred. If you cannot afford to pay your bills, then you should think about discussing it with your lender. Your lender might be more flexible than you think.

A lot of Americans find themselves dealing with debt. As a matter of fact, the average American household debt is $58,604. 77% of families in the United States deal with some type of debt. Popular types of debt include credit card debt, student loans, mortgages, and more. These debts can build up. However, there are different ways you can deal with your debt. You just need to figure out what can help your finances, lifestyle, and personal growth. Some individuals prefer working on their credit cards, while others prefer managing bigger sources of debt. When paying off debt, you should make sure to figure out whether there are any prepayment fees. Some lenders will request a penalty if the customer pays off their debt sooner than planned!

Keeping Your Credit Utilization Rate Lower Than 30%

As we mentioned earlier, it is good to keep your credit utilization rate lower than 30%. On the other hand, if you are interested in seeing real improvements, then repaying your credit per month can boost your credit! Your credit utilization ratio is the second most important aspect when it comes to your credit score. You need to make sure you know more about your credit limit and your current use of credit to improve your score.

Making Sure to Report Any Extra Accounts

Experian Boost is a financial service that Experian provides (one of the major credit bureaus) that can support customers who want to improve their credit scores. This financial service will let you know about the payments you make on time for utility bills, phone payments, streaming services, and more. When credit bureaus receive a person’s scores, they can help rebuild and improve their credit score, since it counts as your payment background.

Requesting Assistance from a Credit Counseling Organization

Improving your credit on your own means you need to find the right services to help you along the way. You should consider contacting a credit counseling organization. These organizations can help you learn about a lot of things in your finances. This includes your money, budget planning, credit score, and more. Typically, credit counseling organizations do not profit from these services and their counselors are certified. You can look through your current finances and your plans while the organization can offer advice and education to help you out.

Bottom Line

Improving your credit score does not need to be overwhelming. There are many aspects that affect your credit. This includes the following:

  • Fighting Back On Any False Information
  • Make Sure You Pay Your Bills by the Due Date and You’re Repaying Your Debt
  • Keeping Your Credit Utilization Rate Lower Than 30%
  • Making Sure to Report Any Extra Accounts
  • Request Assistance from a Credit Counseling Organization

There are several ways that you can take control of your credit. You might not find positive changes taking place on your credit overnight, but you will eventually see improvement in your credit. Make sure that you pay your bills on time, fight back on any inaccurate information on your credit report, and make sure to keep your credit usage lower than 30%. Also, make sure you take your time and research your options. You need to remain calm when you are figuring out a plan that works for your credit situation!

Carriers That Provide Free Phones

Many people forget that not everyone can afford the cost of getting a phone. When people don’t have enough money to get a phone, it can be difficult to navigate life, especially when nowadays a majority of people are using a smartphone. Fortunately, there are opportunities out there for people to get a bunch of free perks like a phone, unlimited data, international calling, and more. Yes, you read that right!  All of that can be provided to qualifying Americans at no cost. That is why it is important to know what’s out there and where you may be able to find this support!

Is It Possible to Get a Free Phone?

You might not believe it, but it is true that you can get a free phone. The best part is that it is all legit and a lot of carriers offer this opportunity. These carriers can offer free phones and discounted perks due to a variety of programs. One standout is the Lifeline Program.

The Lifeline Program: What is It and How Can It Help?

Before you find out about the carriers that offer a phone for free, you should know about the programs that make this opportunity possible. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) provides the Lifeline Program. However, the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) administers the program and is responsible for supporting consumers in several aspects. This includes applying, recertifying, finding out eligibility criteria, and so on.

The aim of the Lifeline Program is to make communication services affordable for eligible recipients who have limited income. Generally, this program offers a discount every month on broadband internet services, telephone services, or bundled voice-broadband packages. This discount can reach up to $9.25, or reach up to $34.25 for those who are staying in tribal areas.

If you are interested in finding out whether you are eligible, then you should be at or less than 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. On the other hand, you could also qualify when you currently receive benefits from the following programs:

Which Carriers Offer Phones For Free?

While some of the popular carriers do not offer free phones, there are still opportunities  to consider from:

These carriers are just a few options to consider because they offer great phones on solid networks. Some carriers might not be accessible in every location. That is why you should look for carriers that are available in your area.

Metro by T-Mobile

To start off, there is Metro by T-Mobile. Metro’s latest deal is a game-changer, offering 5G phones absolutely free – no hidden costs involved. What you see is what you pay at Metro. To grab this deal, there are some conditions that need to be met. This includes choosing a plan starting at $40/month, and paying the applicable tax. Online shoppers aren’t left out of the deal opportunities either. Certain devices are available without any activation fees, plus the option to add a voice line to your existing plan.

AirTalk Wireless

Next up is AirTalk Wireless. This carrier presents a compelling option for ACP recipients thinking about changing providers, with an attractive offer of a free smartphone. The deal is further sweetened with perks like free unlimited international calls to over 50 countries, free Wi-Fi calling, and access to 5G+ high-speed internet services every month. Additionally, AirTalk assures comprehensive nationwide coverage, allowing you to maintain your number and uninterrupted connection, even as the ACP program concludes, thanks to their inclusive Lifeline Plan. These benefits make AirTalk an excellent choice for enhanced connectivity.

Safelink Wireless

Another free phone provider is Safelink Wireless. This carrier provides an excellent opportunity for ACP enrollees using other providers to switch to their service and receive a free smartphone, along with unlimited talk, text, and data on a top-tier network. Alongside AirTalk Wireless, SafeLink is recognized for its varied options that cater specifically to user needs. Additionally, Lifeline recipients with SafeLink benefit from extra perks, such as unlimited texts and 4.5 GB of data, enhancing their communication experience.

Verizon

Upgrading to a new phone can be cost-effective with Verizon’s range of promotions. They frequently offer a variety of free phone deals, catering to different preferences with a selection of models and brands. Opting for a 36-month bill credit plan or trading in your existing device can make it easy to secure a free upgrade. Moreover, their buy-one-get-one-free offers are especially appealing for families or individuals in need of multiple phones. These opportunities underscore how straightforward and affordable it can be to upgrade your phone through Verizon.

Overall

Not everyone can afford a phone, and in today’s world, lacking one can make life quite challenging. However, there’s good news: there are opportunities to get a phone and other perks like unlimited data and international calling for free. Yes, really! Qualifying Americans can enjoy these benefits at no cost, thanks to programs like Lifeline, offered by the FCC and administered by the USAC. This program helps make communication services more affordable for those with limited income, offering monthly discounts on various services.

To qualify, your income should be at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or you might be eligible through certain federal assistance programs. Providers like Metro by T-Mobile, AirTalk Wireless, SafeLink Wireless, and Verizon offer free phones on solid networks. Remember, availability might vary by location, so it’s important to find carriers that serve your area. With these opportunities, getting a new phone can be both affordable and straightforward.

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