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  • The Best Holiday Appliance Sales are Here!

    The Best Holiday Appliance Sales are Here!

    Holiday season is the best time to find great deals on furniture, Apple electronics, and clothes, you can expect to see a ton of rare great discounts on big-ticket items like kitchen appliances and Roomba vacuums.

    As soon as holiday deals officially start to roll in, we advise you to take full advantage of the offers and act quickly: there’s nothing worse than just missing a good sale and having to pay full price the next day.

    If you’ve been waiting to buy a brand-new suite of matching appliances, November is the right time to do it. You will see some of the lowest prices of the year this month, on most major appliances—from ranges, refrigerators, and dishwashers to matching washer and dryer sets.

    But as good as those deals are on a one-off basis, you’ll save the most money buying a pre-packaged appliance suite like these best Black Friday finds we have listed below:

    Four-Piece Samsung Suite
    The deal: $1,858 at Home Depot
    Savings: $1,496
    What’s included:
    • Samsung French Door Refrigerator RF260BEAESR
    • Samsung Gas Range NX58H5600SS or Samsung Electric Range NE59M4320SS
    • Samsung Dishwasher DW80M2020US
    • Samsung Over-The-Range Microwave ME16H702SES

    Simply put, you won’t find a better-looking stainless steel appliance suite for this price, but you need to make some concessions. This package is all about the range. You can choose from gas or electric versions. The dishwasher cleans and dries well and the microwave is similar, proving decent at heating quickly and evenly. Samsung always earns a a good rating for both owner satisfaction and predicted reliability in French door refrigerators.

    Four-Piece Whirlpool Suite
    The deal: $2,699 at Home Depot
    Savings: $1,597
    What’s included:
    • Whirlpool Four-Door French Door Refrigerator WRX735SDHZ
    • Whirlpool Gas Range WFG540H0ES or Whirlpool Electric Range WFE540H0ES
    • Whirlpool Dishwasher WDT750SAHZ
    • Whirlpool Over-the-Range Microwave WMH32519HZ

    The savings here are substantial and this suite is a solid choice. The standout appliances are the dishwasher and microwave. The dishwasher cleans exceptionally well and earns an excellent rating for predicted reliability. The microwave also heats evenly and quickly, and is easy to use. The gas range is good at baking and has a big oven. The suite has a four-door French door refrigerator, a rare find in an appliance package that’s priced this low!

    It’s no secret that Black Friday is a great time to find kitchen and appliance deals. So if you’ve been holding out on getting that kitchen gadget or countertop appliance, now’s the time to finally take the plunge!


  • Your Acne-Prone Skin is Begging For These Essential Things

    Your Acne-Prone Skin is Begging For These Essential Things

    When it comes to finding the right acne treatment, there are a million products out there—and they’re not all created equal. From acne washes to creams and spot treatments, the options can be overwhelming, making it impossible to tell which is truly the best acne treatment for you.

    Even more frustrating? The fact that we’re still dealing with acne at all. But knowledge is power, and just knowing that there are different types, and that each kind requires its own plan of attack, puts you ahead of the clear-skin curve. Once you figure out what you’re working with, it gets far easier to treat.

    Hormones, stress, genetics, and even pollution can lead to breakouts. A blemish starts deep within a pore, weeks before any signs of infection surface. So, prevention and care are key. We are warning you: Squeezing, popping, or picking at a blemish can lead to scars and discoloration! Instead, try these top-rated treatment options:

    On-the-Spot Fixes

    Our powerful pick uses acne fighters like salicylic acid or sulfur to tackle flare-ups head on.

    Acne Healing Dots are the new craze. They are a powerful set of healing dots with hydrocolloid technology and an infusion of blemish-fighting ingredients to help soothe, treat, and assist in the prevention of picking.

    These little guys are the first to combine healing hydrocolloid dressing with an infusion of potent, acne-fighting ingredients. The bacteria-fighting technology extracts impurities and provides a barrier from external irritants, while preventing picking and inflammation.

    Complete Sets

    Eliminate guesswork with a regimen of products combining acne-fighting, exfoliating, and hydrating ingredients of ProactivMD.

    Try this intro-size kit featuring a prescription-strength acne-clearing retinoid along with cleansing, hydration, and sun protection, in one easy system. Cleanse, moisturize, and protect. Deep Cleansing Wash cleans and gently exfoliates the skin with tiny beads. Daily Oil Control Moisturizer is a lightweight three-in-one moisturizer that hydrates, protects from sun damage, and controls shine with surface oil absorbents. Adapelene gel is the first FDA-approved over-the-counter topical retinoid for the treatment of acne.

    All-Over Treatments

    Tame and help prevent breakouts with clarifying solutions like Sunday Riley’s U.F.O. Ultra-Clarifying Face Oil that sweeps away blemish-causing buildup.

    It’s a quick absorbing, medicated dry oil to clear congested pores, treat and prevent acne, and smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for clearer, smoother skin. Counterbalancing the potentially drying effects of salicylic acid, milk thistle and cucumber seed oil nourish the skin and smooth the appearance of lines and wrinkles, without leaving a greasy residue. Chamomile and neroli soothes stressed, blemish-prone skin.

    Brightening Treatments

    When breakouts leave their mark, turn to skincare that visibly improves the appearance of discoloration, scar depth, and size.

    Murad’s InvisiScar Resurfacing Treatment is a breakthrough resurfacing treatment for acne scars (old and new) that visibly minimizes size, depth, and color in as little as eight weeks. The velvety-smooth formula in this resurfacing treatment instantly fills pitted scars. It is clinically proven to minimize the look of scar size, depth, texture, and discoloration in eight weeks. BHA exfoliates, while a blend of highly purified centella asiatica and vitamin C encourages natural radiance.

    Makeup with Benefits

    Rely on oil-free formulas and corrective solutions like Bare Mineral’s Complexion Rescue Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 that conceals problem areas rather than making them worse.

    This oil-free tinted moisturizer hydrates and protects with mineral-based SPF 30, and evens out the complexion with a dewy, healthy-looking glow. The creamy, lightweight formula blends effortlessly onto skin. It’s your go-to formula for natural-looking coverage and everyday protection.


  • Don’t Let Hearing Loss Hold You Back! Explore These All New Options

    Don’t Let Hearing Loss Hold You Back! Explore These All New Options

    Baby boomers can be particularly hesitant to take steps to address hearing loss. Many do not think about it as a requirement like regular doctor or dentist visits. It can be seen as a definitive sign of aging and many just don’t like being branded with a brown plastic thing behind their ear. All of this on top of the fact that traditional hearing aids can cost upwards of $3,000 per ear.

    How to Save Right Away

    You know the reading glasses you find at the drugstore? There’s a hearing aid equivalent. While personal sound amplification products – or PSAPs – aren’t for everyone, they can perhaps help some. Unfortunately, they’re only good if you have mild hearing loss, and you do get what you pay for with them. Most of the ones that do a good job of canceling out background noise are around $200 to $300. They aren’t cheap, but they’re far less expensive than your traditional option.

    Even though these devices will be able to help your hearing they will not be able to be marketed as hearing aids or as a product to “improve” hearing loss.

    Curb Costs by Unbundling

    Avoid going to an audiologist that bundles the cost of exams with the cost of hearing aids. Instead, try to pay for services as you go and buy your hearing aids separately. You may have to pay for each follow-up visit, but you’ll avoid spending money on services you don’t need.

    Natural Look

    If you’re hesitant to move forward with a hearing aid for cosmetic purposes, there are options for you. There’s a new class of hearing aid that’s completely invisible. It’s small enough to fit in your ear canal by your eardrum. Don’t worry you won’t be placing it in there all on your own. In order to receive this type of hearing aid, you’ll need to take a trip to the audiologist. They carefully place the hearing aid in order to avoid any possible injury to your sensitive canals.

    These types of hearing aids also provide you with a more natural sound profile. Because they are so deep in your canal, the sound interacts with your ear in the same way it naturally would. Surprisingly, that ability is also a strong factor in how you’re able to detect where a sound is coming from.

    With all the great things about these types of hearing aids, there are also setbacks. They are not good for people with severe hearing loss. Also, because of their small size, their life can be shorter than that of larger hearing aids.

    Medicare is an essential resource for many Americans. It provides a base for coverage for private insurance is not an option.

    Don’t Upgrade, Recalibrate

    First of all, you should never buy the top-of-the-line anything, since you’re paying a premium for that luxury. Try things until you find one that is suitable. Once you’ve found hearing aids that work, instead of upgrading them to the latest and greatest, have them recalibrated instead.

    The odds that a new pair will be all that much better are slim. Most people only notice minor improvements when opting for a newer pair. That’s why upgrading every year or two is often a waste of money.


  • Google’s New Pixel 4: Should You Upgrade?

    Google’s New Pixel 4: Should You Upgrade?

    With the Pixel 4 bringing so much newness to the table, why in the world should you keep your Pixel 3? It shouldn’t come as any surprise that the Pixel 4 is loaded with upgrades compared to the Pixel 3. For some, the changes Google’s made might be enough to encourage them to upgrade, here’s why:

    While the Pixel 3 isn’t nearly as flashy as its newer sibling, it’s still plenty capable these days and should get you through another year of use just fine. There’s no denying that Google created a killer smartphone with the Pixel 4.

    With a camera that captures detail that the competition can’t, a futuristic way to use your phone without even touching it, your own personal Google Assistant, and a fast and responsive display, Pixel 4 packs new technology into a must-have new design.

    Get the perfect photo

    Pixel 4 brings Google’s biggest camera upgrade yet. The Pixel 4 comes two cameras on the back of the phone and includes a new telephoto lens. When you combine this new hardware feature with Google’s Super Res Zoom software, it gives you exceptional image quality, even planets away.

    Night Sight already takes beautiful photos in full darkness, and now you can use Night Sight for shots of the night sky, the stars, and even the Milky Way (when you find a clear night). Pixel 3 and 3a will also get a version of this capability with the latest camera app update!

    Your new Google Assistant

    Thanks to a deeper integration into Pixel 4, the Google Assistant is now a faster way to get more things done, think of it like your own personal assistant. Google redesigned the Assistant so it doesn’t take up too much room on your screen, letting you better multitask across other apps. It can quickly open apps, search your phone, share what’s on your screen, and more.

    It also considers the context of your query to do a better job answering. For example, you can ask the Assistant to “show my photos from Miami” and then say, “the ones in South Beach.” Then, you can share a picture by saying “send it to Brad.”

    A phone that senses what you want it to do

    Pixel 4’s Motion Sense feature uses a miniature radar sensor to detect movement around your phone. It can sense when you’re reaching for the phone and will initiate face unlock, or turn off your screen when you’re not around. New Quick Gestures let you skip songs when you don’t want to pick up your phone. Just wave your hand to snooze alarms, dismiss timers, or silence your phone.

    Built for performance and security

    With 6GB RAM, a 90hz display, and Pixel Neural Core, Pixel 4 is fast and powerful. Pixel Neural Core is the engine for on-device processing, always-on computing, and machine learning, meaning more tasks are done on the device for performance and privacy.

    Pixel 4 also includes Google’s custom-built Titan M security chip to protect your most sensitive data and ensure the integrity of the operating system. Combined with the latest version of Android 10, monthly security updates for 3 years, and access to Google’s advanced security services, Pixel 4 is designed to keep your data secure.

    Pricing

    Beginning today, October 15, you can pre-order a Pixel 4 for $799 and Pixel 4 XL for $899, and phones will ship on October 24, globally. Pixel 4 comes in three colors, including white, black and a limited-edition orange!


  • She NEVER Repeats Outfits, Here’s Her Secret:

    She NEVER Repeats Outfits, Here’s Her Secret:

    Stuck in a fashion rut? Or maybe you just don’t have time to shop? It’s tiresome, it’s time-consuming, and sometimes, you just can’t find what you want. Try out one of these clothing subscription services—you’ll get trendy and stylish clothing and accessories delivered right to your door at least once a month.

    Not sure if clothing subscriptions are your style? Prepare to be surprised—this list features plans to fit a wide range of styles and budgets. It’s our mission to change the way people find clothes they love by combining technology with the personal touch of seasoned style experts. The clothing subscription box experience is not merely curated—it’s truly personalized to you. We’re here to help you save time, look great and evolve your personal style over time.

    Here to save you from the exhausting practice of shopping both online and in stores, is a new method of acquiring new clothes that brings the whole enchilada to your doorstep. Rather than scrolling through an endless selection of shirts, pants, dresses, and everything in between, or rifling through racks and bins for that one size you need, you can just get a box of clothing sent straight to your front door. And that, my friends, is the magic of clothing subscription boxes.

    While there are plenty of clothing subscription box companies that offer this or a similar model, there are a few that stand a cut above the rest:

    1. StitchFix

    Cost: $20 styling fee (applies to any items you decide to keep.)

    Why You’ll Love It: The best part of this styling service is that it’s customized just for you. When you sign up for StitchFix, you’ll take an in-depth survey of your sizes, your style, and your pricing preferences. After choosing when you’d like to receive your delivery, your stylist will hand-pick 5 clothing and accessory items just for you. Keep what you love, return what you don’t.

    2. Fabletics

    Cost: $49.95 a month.

    Coupon: New VIP members can get 2 pairs of Fabletics leggings for $24.

    Why You’ll Love It: Fabletics curates high-quality, on-trend athletic clothing to fit your size, style, and needs, with new options available each month. You’ll love the flexibility to skip any month, or add additional items. Think stylish and sporty leggings, tops, shorts, and outerwear for yoga, running, and all kinds of other workouts. You’ll see chic and casual athleisure gear, too.

    3. Nordstrom’s Trunk Club

    Cost: $25 styling fee (applies towards items you choose to keep.)

    Why You’ll Love It: Trunk Club is Nordstrom’s personal styling service for sizes XS to 3X. Start with a style survey or chat online with a stylist to start curating a perfect assortment of pieces to try. Preview what your stylist has picked for you before it ships and make adjustments to your liking. Then simply try on your looks, keep what you love, and return what you don’t! Trunk Club price matches exclusively to Nordstrom within 14 days of purchase. Also, the $25 styling fee is waived if you use a Nordstrom credit or debit card!


  • World’s BEST Travel Reward Card Luxury Perks

    World’s BEST Travel Reward Card Luxury Perks

    It’s October, a time for frights and things that go bump in the night. But there’s nothing scarier than missing out on great travel rewards because you don’t have the right travel credit card. We’ll review all the details, including bonus offers and travel perks, to bring you a list of the very best travel cards.

    While there are lots of great credit cards for travel out there, the reality is that the best one for you is the one that suits your specific travel needs.

    The Platinum Card® from American Express: Best total value

    The Platinum Card from American Express has some of the best membership benefits of any card, including:
    • Up to $200 in statement credits annually on incidental fees charged by one airline you select
    • Uber VIP status and up to $200 Uber credit split into monthly $15 credits for US rides plus a bonus $20 in December
    • $100 fee credit for Global Entry every five years or an $85 fee credit for TSA PreCheck every four years
    • $100 Saks credit split into two $50 statement credits for the two halves of the year
    • Access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection, which includes Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass, Airspace and Escapes lounges, along with Delta Sky Clubs when flying Delta Air Lines
    • Complimentary Gold status at the Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy loyalty programs
    • Complimentary memberships in Hertz Gold Plus Rewards, Avis Preferred and National Car Rental Emerald Club Executive
    • Access to Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts

    Annual fee: $550

    With a hefty $550 annual fee, most people assume that that the Amex Platinum can only benefit first-class flyers, but that isn’t necessarily the case. In fact, the standard welcome bonus offer for the Amex Platinum is 60,000 points after you spend $5,000 in the first three months. Amex Membership Rewards points are worth 2 cents each, which makes this 60,000-point bonus worth $1,200. That is more than twice the $550 annual fee!

    Yes, the card offers quite a few luxury benefits, but those perks can also make the travel experience easier for families, backpackers and budget travelers. Families can easily take advantage of the $200 airline-fee credit to cover the cost of additional luggage and inflight food, and entertainment to keep kids happy while in the air. Lounge access with hot food and a clean shower can make all the difference after a backpacking trip.

    Chase Sapphire Preferred Card: Best for beginner travelers

    • Earn 2 points per dollar on travel
    • Earn 2 points per dollar on dining
    • Transfer points to 12 travel partners
    • Redeem points for 1.25 cents apiece through the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal
    • No foreign transaction fees

    Annual fee: $95

    The Chase Sapphire Preferred is designed to work for those who travel a lot, and for those who don’t travel as often. Win-win! It can benefit both the points and miles expert and the one just starting out. With a $95 annual fee, it’s not an expensive card, which makes it a good choice for a beginner. But since the card earns Ultimate Rewards points, you’ll also find this card goes a long way if you’re an experienced loyalty program whiz looking to get maximum value.

    If you want flexibility in earning and redeeming rewards, this is the best travel credit card around! You will pay no foreign transaction fees when you use your card for purchases made outside the United States. For example, if you spend $5,000 internationally, you would avoid $150 in foreign transaction fees.

    Chase Sapphire Reserve: Best for travel purchases and perks

    • Earn 3 points per dollar on travel (excluding $300 travel credit) and dining at restaurants and 1 point per dollar on everything else
    • Redeem points directly through the Ultimate Rewards travel portal at a rate of 1.5 cents apiece
    • $300 annual travel credit
    • Priority Pass Select lounge access (valued by TPG at $99 annually)
    • Up to $100 Global Entry/TSA PreCheck application fee credit
    • No foreign transaction fees
    • Trip cancellation coverage
    • Primary car rental insurance

    Annual fee: $450

    Many people will balk at the Reserve’s $450 annual fee, and while that’s a valid concern, the $300 annual travel credit drops your real out-of-pocket cost to $150 a year. With the card, you’ll earn 3x points on all travel (excluding the $300 travel credit) and dining purchases worldwide and 1x points on everything else. What’s often not known is just how extensive the bonus categories are — ride-sharing services, food delivery, etc.

    The Sapphire Reserve also includes access to more than 1,200 airport lounges across the world. In addition, you can pay $75 to add each authorized user to your Reserve account, they’ll be able to take advantage of one of the card’s nicest perks!


  • Freshbooks vs. Quickbooks: Which is Best for Your Business?

    Freshbooks vs. Quickbooks: Which is Best for Your Business?

    As a business owner, it’s important to find tools that can save you time and make your job easier. Finding the right accounting software for your business can be a tough decision. Software that works for one company, might not work for the other. This way having a good accounting solution in place from the start is a seriously good idea, so that you can ensure you can keep on top of tracking money!

    Luckily, there are some very easy to use and well-developed software applications available, which can not only make it easy to manage your accounts, but also make everything clearer for your accountant at the end of the year, saving administration costs there.

    Some accounting packages are downloadable software, but these days it’s more common for applications to run in the cloud, which means you can access them through a web browser or app on almost any device, including on your phone while on the go.

    Here then are the best in accounting software currently available:

    Freshbooks

    The streamlined, seamless and easy-to-use Freshbooks software is one of the top picks for accounting software. Whether you’re running a large business or a small one, Freshbooks as an accounting suite is a strong choice. You can easily set up recurring invoices to pay out to various contractors, record your expenses easily and import to other software in a flash. The dashboard makes it easy to find what you’re looking for, while the easy-to-navigate menus and options make it impossible to get lost. Accounting can be quite difficult, but Freshbooks takes a lot of the difficulty out of the equation! Pricing for this software starts at $15 per month.

    QuickBooks

    Intuit QuickBooks may have been around since the days of DOS, but the latest version is right up to date. It is an easy-to-use cloud-based suite for just about all your business needs. Even the Essentials plan for $20 per month has plenty of features: invoicing, expense tracking, as well as time tracking, manage bills, and works for up to three users. There’s also the option to add either self-service payroll or full-service payroll for an additional fee.

    Conclusion

    Overall, QuickBooks wins the race for the best small business accounting solution. The program has more features, the features it offers are more robust, and its pricing options are affordable (even if they are slightly more expensive than FreshBooks plans).

    If your business is small, starting with QuickBooks now could help you avoid headaches down the road. When your business grows, you may eventually need access to some of the more advanced features available through QuickBooks. Learning QuickBooks on the front end can help your business avoid the growing pains of learning a new accounting system down the road.

    However, there are still several instances where FreshBooks might be the better choice. If you’re a freelancer, solopreneur, or you need to track hours worked by your employees or contractors, FreshBooks may do a better job of meeting your needs at a slightly more affordable price.

    It is not a “one size fits all” concept. Research your options, test what works for you, and you will find the right fit for your company. Evaluate what features you need and what features you do not need. Line up those needs with one of the programs above, and you will find the right one for you. However, most importantly, don’t forget to take advantage of all the free trials and demos out there!


  • Expert Insight: These Are The Top Medical Alert Systems of 2019

    Expert Insight: These Are The Top Medical Alert Systems of 2019

    You and your loved ones deserve the fastest and most reliable emergency help in the event of a fall, stroke, or heart attack. We’ve researched, reviewed, and ranked the best medical alert systems on the market to provide your family with the ultimate protection and peace of mind. The top 5 medical alert systems of 2019!

    Our expert staff compared the most important factors seniors and their families consider in a medical alert system and highlighted the pros and cons, strengths and weaknesses, of each medical alert company.

    5. Bay Alarm Medical

    With pricing plans that fit any budget and over seven decades of proven customer service, Bay Alarm Medical is a premier medical alert provider that you can trust. We’re very impressed with Bay Alarm Medical’s overall service offering. Very affordable pricing and a wide variety of services that make them our #1 rated medical alert system for 2019.

    • Most popular choice – $19.95/mo
    • 1000+ Google Reviews
    • 30-day risk-free trial
    • Ultra-fast response times
    • Best refund policy
    • No hidden fees or contracts

    4. Mobile Help

    MobileHelp is a highly recommended medical alert company that manufactures all of their devices in-house. Choose MobileHelp if you want the latest in medical alert technology. If you’re looking for the latest medical alert technology, MobileHelp is a highly recommended provider. Very good buying experience, low-pressure sales, and a good choice of device options that will fit your loved one’s protection needs.

    • Robust in-home and gps offerings
    • Two buttons included with purchase
    • Best in class mobile gps devices
    • Free lockbox with every order
    • No hidden fees or contracts

    3.Life Station

    For years, LifeStation has delivered trustworthy, 24/7 medical monitoring. The starting price is affordable and their service has been proven to be dependable and reliable. LifeStation is a very reputable company that’s been around for quite a long time. They don’t have the prestige or testimonials like our higher-ranked providers have but when the button is pushed, you can be sure help will arrive.

    • Many years of experience
    • In-house USA monitoring
    • Reliable service
    • Reliable equipment

    2. Medical Alert

    Medical Alert delivers trustworthy 24/7 medical monitoring. Shipping is free and their service is dependable and reliable. The alert buttons are light and have a long-lasting battery. If you’re looking for reliable and simple in-home system, these guys fit the bill. As a plus, Medical Alert provides monitoring services outside of the USA.

    • BBB A+ with many years of experience
    • Recommended for customers outside of USA
    • Trusted and reliable

    1. Get Safe

    Beautiful, modern aesthetics in an easy-to-use package. GetSafe combines senior medical alert monitoring with a splash of home security for added peace of mind. GetSafe differentiates itself in the aesthetics department. From the website to the packaging and to the device, customer experience is at the forefront of this brand. You’ll get beautiful looking hardware, an easy to setup user experience, and a package that doesn’t scream “help i’ve fallen”. We feel that GetSafe has done a great job by creating a medical alert ecosystem that delivers on ease of use and functionality. Automatic fall detection, voice-enabled wall buttons, and monitored smoke alarms are also available as add-ons. Pricing starts at $29.95 and although a little pricier than other brands, we feel the added benefits are worth the cost.

    • 50-state licensed
    • Great modern-looking hardware
    • 4GLTE Cellular for homes without landlines
    • Free wi-fi indoor hd camera


  • Learn How to Cash in on Amazing Rewards From These 4 Credit Cards

    Learn How to Cash in on Amazing Rewards From These 4 Credit Cards

    Saving money is incredibly important for any family. You want to be able to make the holidays memorable, but gift shopping gets expensive. That’s why it’s essential to explore all options to make the most of your money. One of the easiest ways to save money and get cash rewards is by getting a credit card. There are tons to choose from with all different types of rewards. That’s why we’re here to help.

    What Do You Want Most?

    Deciding what’s most important to you for your credit card is the first step to making the right choice. Do you want a credit card that will give you cashback on your most frequent purchases? Do you want a card that gives you frequent flyer points so that your next airplane ticket is discounted (or free?) Or do you enjoy staycations? Whatever you want to focus on there’s a credit card to match.

    You’re a world traveler

    Traveling new places is a great thing to be able to do. For some people it can be an expense they can’t quite afford though. That’s why it’s helpful to enlist your credit card company to foot the bill.

    The first place to start is with a broad credit card like the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card. The card offers double miles on all purchases and has a promotion where you can earn ten times the miles when staying at certain hotel brands. Importantly, there are no blackout dates with this card, and the points can be redeemed at any airline or hotel. There aren’t any expiration dates on your miles, and there’s no limit to how many you can earn. You can also transfer your miles across to other loyalty programs.

    Frequent Travel Pays Off

    The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is a highly sought-after credit card for airline miles for a number of reasons. Firstly, the intro bonus is very generous. If you spend $4,000 through the card in the first three months of owning it, you get 60,000 bonus points. That translates to about $750 in travel rewards, which is a lot to earn just for using your credit card. You also get reimbursed for the $85 TSA precheck fee or $100 Global Entry fee. Add all this together and the card can easily pay for itself.

    Dining and Entertainment

    For those of you who don’t have the time to jet off to new locations, there’s a credit card to fit you too. The Capital One SavorOne card is the one for you. It will reward you with 3% cashback on dining and entertainment, 2% at grocery stores and 1% on all other purchases. There’s no annual fee and you can earn a $150 bonus if you spend $500 in purchases in the first 3 months. Another great benefit is that your cashback rewards don’t expire. That way you can use them when you need them.
    Just Give Me the Cash

    If you don’t want a card with a fancy rewards system, but you wouldn’t mind a little cashback in your wallet, you aren’t alone. The Discover it Cash Back Card would be an excellent choice. With this card, Discover will match all the cashback you’ve earned at the end of the first year automatically. They also offer different killer deals each quarter. They choose a popular category and offer you 5% cashback (up to $1500.) Once you’ve hit that cap, which isn’t difficult, they then offer you 1% on all your purchases in that category.


  • Surprisingly Simple Hacks for Scoring FREE Legal Help When You Need it Most

    Surprisingly Simple Hacks for Scoring FREE Legal Help When You Need it Most

    It’s no secret that lawyers can be extremely expensive. The average hourly rate for a lawyer in America is $284 and even attorneys that charge less can be too costly for some. If you don’t have the cash to hire a lawyer, you don’t have to worry. We’ve got the secret for people who can’t afford a lawyer:

    If you can’t afford a lawyer, you should start by looking into Legal Aid.

    Legal aid means any service that provides legal assistance to those that can’t afford it otherwise. These services all provide pro bono—a Latin term meaning “for the public good”—services. Pro bono services are free and are important to ensure everyone is treated equal before the law and has the right to a fair trial.

    There are many legal aid models out there. Here are some of the most common:

    Legal clinics

    These clinics usually have income and resource restrictions which make certain that those who can afford a lawyer do not abuse clinics out of stinginess. Clinics are often funded by the Legal Services Corporations, which was created by Congress in 1974 in effort to make legal services available to more people that truly can’t afford it. They’ll either have counsel working for them which help those in needs or can place people with firms or pro bono attorneys who have registered with the clinic.

    Law firms

    Some firms exist solely to provide legal aid. These firms are funded either by grants, Legal Services Corporations, or private donations. Legal clinics often know these firms and their specialties and will send interested clients in need for free legal services to the firms themselves for consultations.

    Public Defender

    Criminal defendants that can’t afford to pay for an attorney luck out because the state can’t legally prosecute unless it provides them with an attorney. The state will appoint you a Public Defender which is paid by the government — the same entity that includes the judge, prosecutor, police, and court personnel!

    Pro bono attorneys

    In addition to clinics and law firms which specialize in free legal services, individual lawyers of all specialties will usually represent clients free of charge. A pro bono attorney will donate their time and experience to aid a client who truly can’t afford it.

    Visit a law school near you

    Students in law school clinics are usually certified to practice law under a faculty member who is a practicing attorney. Many law school clinics represent low-income individuals too!

    You may not know this secret, but the American Bar Association recommends all lawyers in the US donate fifty hours of free services per year. Some lawyers do more, of course, while others do less. Some state or city bar associations actually require attorneys to donate time over the course of a year!