When it comes to tax refund savings, many individuals struggle with finding the most effective ways to handle their funds. However, if you are lucky enough to get money back from the government, you want to make sure you’re smart about managing your return! Building your emergency fund and boosting the energy efficiency of your home are two ways to make the most of tax refunds. There’s even more beneficial ways to use your funds that you may be overlooking!
What’s Possible with Your Tax Refund
One of the best parts of life is free will! The funds you get back from your taxes can go towards whatever you want. However, being responsible with your return can make a world of difference when it comes to your finances and long term stability. Some smart ways to deal with your tax refund include:
Build an Emergency Fund
Slash High-Interest Debt
Pay Off Your Mortgage Faster
Invest in Your Retirement
Put Funds Toward Growing Your Career
Boost Your Home’s Energy-Efficiency
Plus, we’ll even touch on some frequently asked questions that can come along with tax returns!
Build Up an Emergency Fund
Don’t let unexpected expenses catch you off guard. Life is full of unexpected twists and turns. Instead, use your tax refund to start or build up your emergency fund. Some things to keep in mind:
Choose a savings account with good interest rates and accessibility: Look for accounts that offer competitive interest rates, low fees, and easy access in case of emergencies, such as online savings accounts.
Use your emergency fund wisely: Only dip into it for true emergencies, like unexpected medical bills or car repairs.
Don’t forget to revisit and adjust your emergency fund: As your expenses or income change, make sure your emergency fund reflects those changes.
Remember that having an emergency fund can be reassuring and keep you from encountering money troubles down the line.
Slash High-Interest Debt
Use your tax refund to tackle high-interest credit card balances, personal loans, or other debts that are weighing you down financially. Prioritize paying off the debts with the highest interest rates to save more money in the long run.
Pay Off Your Mortgage Faster
Reduce your long-term interest costs and build equity faster by applying part of your tax refund towards extra mortgage payments. Use an online calculator to see how much you can save over time with extra payments. Before making extra payments, ensure there are no fees for paying off your loan early by checking with your lender.
Invest in Your Retirement
Boosting contributions to retirement accounts like IRAs is another smart way to use your tax refund. These investments grow over time due to compound interest while offering potential tax advantages depending on account type.
Put Funds Toward Growing Your Career
Your tax return can be put to use by investing in yourself through professional development opportunities. These opportunities include taking classes, acquiring certifications or attending workshops that can help you sharpen your abilities and increase your earning potential.
Find valuable industry certifications or training programs: Research credentials that could be useful for your field and check out organizations that offer these programs.
Explore flexible online learning platforms: Websites can provide a wide range of affordable courses that you can complete at your own pace.
Attend conferences and networking events: Attend industry events to learn from experts, meet like-minded professionals, and expand your network.
Consider hiring a career coach: A career coach can help you identify your strengths, set goals, and create a plan to achieve them.
Boost Your Home’s Energy Efficiency
Pinpoint where you can save on energy costs and prioritize improvements. You can do this through conducting an energy audit. Some common ways you can use your tax refund towards boosting your home’s energy efficiency include:
Swap out your aged machines and lamps with energy-efficient alternatives to save money and lessen the environmental impact.
Prevent drafts and save energy by sealing air leaks around windows, doors, and other openings.
Improve your home’s insulation to keep it warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Strategically plant trees and shrubs to provide shade in the summer and block wind in the winter.
Save energy and money by programming your thermostat to adjust the temperature when you’re away or asleep.
Consider installing solar panels or wind turbines to generate your own renewable energy.
FAQs in Relation to Tax Refunds
Is it smart to save your tax refund?
Definitely. You don’t want to spend your tax refund on meaningless items. Being responsible with your return can make a world of difference in both the short term and long term. There are plenty of smart ways that people can use their refund!
How can I get a $7,000 tax refund?
Maximize your refund by taking advantage of all available deductions and credits, like the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, and education credits. Consult with a professional or use online tools to make sure you don’t miss anything.
What are the benefits of getting a tax refund?
A tax refund can provide extra cash to pay off debts, invest in retirement accounts, make home improvements, or create an emergency fund. This is just to name a few! It’s like getting back money you overpaid throughout the year. Keep in mind there are plenty of ways to use your tax refund, the list stated above is just scratching the surface.
Bottom Line
Got a tax refund? Don’t blow it all on a shopping spree, instead use it wisely to improve your financial situation:
Build an Emergency Fund
Slash High-Interest Debt
Pay Off Your Mortgage Faster
Invest in Your Retirement
Put Funds Toward Growing Your Career
Boost Your Home’s Energy-Efficiency
By following these tips, you can make the most out of your tax refund and set yourself up for financial success. If you have any questions you will want to get in touch with a tax professional. They are going to be the ones that can look at your specific situation and provide customized advice on what would be best for you!
When it comes to food assistance from the government, there are several types of options to consider. One worth mentioning is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Another one is the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP). Both of these programs focus on helping different types of people. Understanding these differences can help you understand if the program could help your household (or if it should be something you shouldn’t even consider!). In the worst case scenario, even if neither of these programs can help, there are alternatives to consider!
SNAP or CSFP: What Support is Right for Your Household?
Understanding the right food support for your household can be a challenge, that’s for sure! First of all, you want to account for your current budget. This means the money coming in and the money coming out. Besides that, you will want to know the number of people in your household. You want to keep in mind not only the number of people that are in the house, but you want to know the demographics of the people within the household. Elderly, young kids, and so on are important to note.
Overview of SNAP
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides financial assistance to low-income individuals and families, allowing them to purchase groceries at authorized retailers. To be eligible for SNAP benefits, applicants must satisfy certain criteria based on family size, income level and other aspects.
SNAP benefits are not handed out just any type of way! Instead, they are available through Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards. These are cards that can be used like a debit card at participating stores. The benefit of having it set up like this? Well, this allows recipients flexibility in choosing the food items they need while staying within their allotted budget (so long as the food items are eligible under SNAP!).
Income limits: Based on household size and Federal Poverty Level guidelines.
Resource limits: Includes assets such as bank accounts or vehicles.
Citizenship status: U.S citizens or eligible non-citizens may apply for SNAP benefits.
Work Requirements: Certain able-bodied adults without dependents must meet work-related criteria to receive benefits.
If you are struggling to make ends meet, SNAP benefits can provide much-needed assistance. Applying for SNAP benefits is easy and can be done online or in person!
The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) is a federal program that provides food assistance to low-income seniors aged 60 and older. The program provides a monthly box of nutritious food items to eligible seniors, including canned fruits and vegetables, cereal, pasta, and more. The program is designed to supplement the diets of seniors who may be at risk of malnutrition due to financial hardships.
Eligibility Requirements for CSFP
Age: Seniors aged 60 and older are eligible for CSFP.
Income: Eligibility is based on income level, which varies by state.
Location: Applicants must live in an area served by the program.
If you are a senior struggling to afford nutritious food, CSFP may be a good option for you.
Comparing Differences Between SNAP and CSFP
While both programs aim to address food insecurity among vulnerable populations, they differ significantly in operation, target audience, and eligibility criteria. For instance those that are receiving benefits from the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) are ineligible to participate in CSFP. However it is possible to receive or participate in WIC and SNAP at the same time.
Operational differences between the two programs: Unlike SNAP’s flexible purchasing options through Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards, CSFP provides monthly boxes containing nutritious foods. These are shipped from the U.S. Department of Agriculture state agencies designated as claiming sites for participants to pick up.
Eligibility criteria variations: To qualify for SNAP benefits, applicants must meet specific requirements based on household size and income level. In contrast, CSFP focuses on elderly individuals and their income level.
Choosing the Right Program Based on Your Needs
In terms of choosing between SNAP and CSFP, it ultimately depends on your individual circumstances. If you are a senior citizen facing financial struggles, consider applying for CSFP, which is specifically tailored to your demographic and offers supplemental nutrition alongside existing benefits.
Factors that may influence your decision-making process include your age and household composition, income level, and eligibility for other assistance programs. Additionally, you may want to consider the flexibility you desire in purchasing groceries or receiving pre-selected food items.
Alternatives to Both These Programs
If you’re in need of food assistance, there are other alternatives available aside from SNAP and CSFP. Local food banks and pantries often provide free groceries to individuals and families facing financial difficulties. Additionally, some community organizations offer meal programs or soup kitchens where people can access hot meals at no cost.
FAQs in Relation to SNAP vs CSFP: Which is Better for You?
What are the disadvantages of SNAP?
The main disadvantages of SNAP include limited food choices, potential stigma associated with using benefits, and complex eligibility requirements. Some participants may struggle to purchase healthy foods due to high costs or lack of availability in their area. Additionally, not all stores accept SNAP benefits.
Who benefits most from the SNAP program?
SNAP primarily benefits low-income individuals and families who struggle to afford nutritious food. This includes children, seniors, people with disabilities, and those experiencing unemployment or underemployment. The program aims to reduce hunger and improve overall health among vulnerable populations.
What are the benefits of the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)?
The CSFP provides nutritious USDA commodity foods targeted towards low-income seniors aged 60 years or older. Benefits include:
Access to free monthly food packages containing essential nutrients
Improved diet quality
Reduced financial burden on groceries
Increased social support through local distribution sites
Overall
After comparing SNAP and CSFP, it’s clear that both programs have unique eligibility criteria and operational differences. While SNAP serves a wider audience, CSFP targets low-income seniors with specific food packages. Determining the most appropriate program depends on individual circumstances, including age, income level, family size and dietary requirements.
If neither program is the best fit for you or your family’s situation, there are alternative options like local food banks or community meal programs. It’s important to explore all available resources to ensure access to healthy food during times of financial hardship.
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:
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.
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)
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.
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.
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) 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:
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.
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!
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!
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:
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.
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:
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:
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:
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:
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.
SNAP plays a crucial role in aiding individuals and families across America by offering financial assistance for purchasing food. This program not only addresses...
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