Tag: finance

Default Status

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A body at rest will stay at rest unless an outside force acts upon it (law of inertia) – Newton’s first law of motion.

The first thing that comes to mind of most when applying that law to humans is sloth and laziness.

I implore you, however, to look at this law from your perspective.

What is it that you do when you’re at rest?

What is your default status?

What do you do when you’re not required to do anything?

Besides the normal biological functions, my default status: Think, read, write, report; repeat. This is what I do, regardless of income. I suspect, however, my default could be considered a business model for some – in fact, Glassdoor, the job search engine and review website, sent me an update that my vocation is worth $86,000+ here in the Atlanta metro.

If it weren’t, however, then what?

In January, CNBC reported, Finland began experimenting with this hypothetical – and for the next two years, about 2000 unemployed citizens will receive a universal basic income.

They will receive about 560 euros ($581.48) per month – even if they earn income in other (legal) ways. As you may have already heard, basic income isn’t a new concept according to Basicincome.org, the practice dates back to the 16th century as a cure for theft.

Even, in a city that’s home to more than 70 billionaires,  San Francisco’s Office of Financial Empowerment is looking for ways to close the income inequality gap.

Meanwhile, in Stockon, CA, the Stockton Economic Empowerment Demonstration (SEED) program got underway in February 2019.  According to the LA Times, Stockton’s version of Universal Basic Income project will distribute $500 a month to 130 residents for 18 months.  Tap into Newark reports during the Newark, New Jersey State of City Address, Mayor Ras Baraka mentioned a exploratory committee will research the feasibility of a pilot program working in the economically-challenged city,

Think about it, what is that you do when no one expects you to do anything.

Basic income might be the key to you doing more of that.

First Posting Jan 27, 2017

It’s Tax Time, CYA (Check Your Assets)

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If you made as little as $400 in freelance writing fees, here in the United States, you’re required to file an income tax return.

But do not despair dear writers. Just like most things in our writer’s world, not every asset is physical but can still produce tangible results. So when filing income taxes this year, especially those who freelance, pay close attention to the intangibles.

Since I’m not a tax accountant, I can’t offer you tax advice. I can, however, shed some light on one item you might be able to expense – DOMAIN NAMES!!! If you’re an owner of 1 or several domains, please bring those receipts to the attention of the person preparing your taxes.  Point them to “Treatment of Costs to Acquire Internet Domain Names for Use in Taxpayer’s Trade or Business”  and internet related expenses.

Oh Stewardess: Expiring Hotel Reward Points

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RIDE OR DINE UPDATE: "Staycay ->Vacay"  Marriott Bonvoy members link your account with Uber and UberEats. Get 3x points/dollar on rides and 2x-6x points/dollar on dining!  Check your Uber App for details. 07/26/21
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Rewards Exchange Partners

Heads up!

Choice hotels sent notice that my rewards points are set to expire. I hate to lose anything, so it sent me into a panic. OK, I’m exaggerating. I have options, and if you do too, if you find yourself in this position.

If you’ve accumulated a few points (1000 or more) but aren’t looking to book a hotel stay anytime soon – here are few things, you can do with your rewards points.

  • 1- Book a room for you, a friend, and/or a family member. Reserve the room in both your names. If you’re not going to check in – your guest can and stay on your free points.  (Disclaimer: Verify your hotel’s policy.  In my case, my daughter checked in ahead of my arrival (I was a no-show), and she was fine.)
  • 2 – Donate reward points to your favorite charity through your rewards program.   Choice Rewards has an option that allows you to donate with a minimum of 1000 points to organizations such as the American Red Cross.
  • 3 – Transfer points to your airline rewards account.   Choice has a partnership with United Airlines, Southwest, and Alaska Airlines, to name a few.  A minimum of 6000 points nets 1800 loyalty points on SWA.
  • 4 – Buy retail goods, magazines, gift cards, and even Facebook gift cards? Christmas shopping with rewards points is a win for stocking stuffers and gifts.
  • 5 – Cruise away -redeem hotel stays and airline miles for cruise credits.
  • 6 – And there’s more… but first, you must sign up.

You’re going to travel anyway – might as well join the rewards program of your favorite hotels, motels, trains, planes, auto rentals, et al.  Who knows, if you collect enough points, all your travel might be for free.