Earning a few quick bucks apart from your primary source of income is always helpful. Whether for selling used items or a side hustle, the internet is brimming with websites and apps that let you make money. However, many of these are not as legitimate as they appear. So, if you want to earn cash with apps, here are the best options.
Swagbucks
This app has an A rating with Better Business Bureau and more than 10 million active users worldwide. It is one of the best apps that lets you earn cash quickly. Swagbucks offers $10 to new users as a welcome bonus. Besides, it is easy to use; all you need to do is watch videos, play games, or take part in search surveys, and the company will deposit the amount in your PayPal account. Swagbucks also gives you the option to redeem the money and use it as a gift card on shopping websites.
Dosh
If you are an avid shopper and want to earn cash with apps, Dosh is one of the best options for you. Available on both Android and iOS, Dosh lets you make money every time you use your card for shopping online or at walk-in stores. The amount keeps getting deposited in your “Dosh Wallet.” Then once you have earned $25, the app lets you withdraw the money. In addition, the company has tie-ups with major brands and merchants that offer you cashback if you purchase stuff through Dosh. Plus, you get $5 by simply linking your card with the app.
HealhyWage
HealthyWage is a unique app that motivates you to earn cash by losing weight. It lets you set weight loss goals and rewards you with money accordingly. For instance, its 10% challenge requires you to shed 10% of your body weight in six months in exchange for around $300. However, note that you will be required to verify your weight with your doctor, gym, or any other outlet that partners with the app.
Decluttr
If you are looking to earn cash for decluttering your living space, apps like Decluttr are for you. The app lets you sell used DVDs, Blu-rays, videogames, and other household electronics quickly. All you have to do is scan the item on your phone, and Decluttr will make an instant offer. Once you accept the offer, you will be required to print a pre-paid label and send the goods. You can drop them off at the nearest UPS store or any other authorized dealer outlet.
A timeshare is shared ownership of a property, wherein multiple individuals own a “share” of a particular home or property in return for its access for a stipulated period, typically once a year. Investors may sometimes wish to sell their timeshare for various reasons, like the inability to pay for travel or illness. If you want a release from your timeshare ownership, you must consider a few things to sell it fast and safe.
1. Determine the value
Owning a timeshare means you have essentially paid for a set number of vacation days upfront. A timeshare’s value decreases over time, unlike real estate, so it should not be purchased as an investment. Additionally, you need to have realistic expectations while reselling it. It is quite likely that the resale value will be lower than the price you paid while originally buying the timeshare. Some owners simply return their timeshares to the property managers without asking for any money, but if you wish to get back at least something, you can determine the value of a timeshare by researching the resort it is located in and checking the prices of similar timeshares currently up for sale. The valuation depends on the location, maintenance, and how long you have owned it.
2. Pay the maintenance
Ensure that you pay the maintenance fees before listing your timeshare for resale. This is important if you’re wondering how to sell a timeshare fast, as it prevents repossession and gives your timeshare value.
3. Choose a selling option
One of the most reliable ways to sell a timeshare is to contact the property manager and ask for their help. Another option is to run advertisements in the real estate or travel section of a local newspaper. You can also list your timeshare on websites like Craigslist, RedWeek, Timeshare Users Group, or eBay.
Another option is to rope in a professional resale agent to help you sell your timeshare. Selling your timeshare through agents should not cost anything. If resale companies or agents ask for a large sum of money upfront, it is a red flag. When hiring a resale agent, make sure to check with the American Resort Development Association to avoid scammers.
Many “timeshare cancellation companies” claim that they can get your timeshare contract canceled, but these contracts cannot be canceled unless you are in your rescission period.
Veterans and military families can opt for refinancing offers that give homeowners an option to reduce the ongoing interest rate. VA Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL), also known as VA Streamline, is the simplest refinance option, which involves minimal paperwork and overhead costs. However, despite the substantial benefits every scheme is different, and it must be thoroughly discussed with an expert.
What are the benefits of IRRRL?
The interest rates will be fixed, contrarily to how they usually fluctuate depending on the market rate. Additionally, there’s the benefit of monthly payment savings once a family signs up for VA Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan.
While the VA borrowers are entitled to 0.5 percent funding fee, that too can be waived off under certain conditions. If the veteran develops a disability due to their service, and is not compensated nor given retirement, the family surviving them are entitled to this benefit.
How does IRRRL affect the year term?
With the help of this VA IRRRL the term year of a loan can be adjusted. If your term loan is of 30 years, one can bring down the term to 15 years. However, the monthly payments will be increased. So, it’s recommended that one must calculate the monthly payment and the interest cost over 20 years to understand what’s a better choice.
Cash-out is an option with IRRRL
VA Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL) allows cash-out on certain terms and conditions and it must be applied before the window of 90 days closes. Additionally, a VA-backed loan can replace one’s current loan with another under new terms and conditions, and it holds an option of cash-out of home equity. Most people opt for cash-out of home equity to be able to pay for student loans, debts, make home improvements, medical needs, and other essential needs.
Let’s take a look at the current VA IRRRL rates today and get an idea of what can be the lowest. A 30-year VA IRRRL Streamline’s interest rate is 2.75% with 2.894% APR. Whereas, for a 15-year VA IRRRL Streamline, the interest rate is 2.375% and APR is 2.708%. Another VA-backed loan termed for 30 years known as VA IRRRL Streamline Jumbo comes with an interest rate of 3.125% and 3.252%.
While there are many benefits of switching to the lowest VA IRRRL, one needs to watch the closing costs that incur with every change and it could be a huge amount. So, when calculating monthly savings and term savings, also ensure you discuss the closing costs with your lender.
If mortgage refinancing (mtg refi) rates today are low, many homeowners will rush to refinance their mortgages. It is quite appealing to opt for mortgage refinancing when one can secure a lower rate. This often helps in lowering monthly payments. In addition, refinancing helps pay off the mortgage quicker; some even cash out the equity on their home.
Here are few reasons why one should consider mortgage refinancing:
Get a lower interest rate
If mtg refi rates are low, getting a mortgage refinancing makes complete sense. This is because the interest rate on the existing mortgage will get lower. There can be a saving of nearly 1 to 2 percent. With lower interest rates through refinancing, one can save money. Moreover, there will be an increase in the rate of building equity on the house. In addition, monthly payments will become lower. It is usually recommended to opt for refinancing when the interest rate can be lowered by a minimum of 2 percent.
Reduce the loan term
Whenever mtg refi rates fall, homeowners can take the opportunity to get a shorter loan term on an existing loan. However, there won’t be much change in the monthly payments in such cases. The repayment term almost reduces by half, with any change to the monthly payment amount. In some cases, the monthly payment might rise slightly. So, it is important to do the due diligence before opting for mortgage refinancing.
Convert Fixed-rate or ARM
In most cases, adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) offer lower rates compared to fixed-rate mortgages. However, if there are periodic adjustments, the rate for an ARM may be more. In such cases, it is beneficial to convert to a fixed-rate mortgage with lower interest rates. This will help in securing against future hikes in the rates. On the other hand, for homeowners who do not plan to stay in their current homes and want to quickly pay off the monthly payments, converting a fixed rate to ARM is beneficial. This is useful if the mtg refi rates for ARM are falling.
Get some quick equity
No matter what the mtg refi rates are today, refinancing a mortgage can be risky. Hence, homeowners must have a solid reason to want to go the refinancing way. For many, a major emergency expense often requires them to tap into the equity of their homes. In such cases, mortgage refinancing can be a sound decision. College education, home remodeling, or medical emergency are some of the reasons why some prefer to refinance their mortgage.
Insurance helps cover unexpected costs and liabilities that may incur in the future. Investing in a decent insurance policy also protects your assets, be it rental or owned. If you are a business owner and own or rent vehicles that transport goods and consumables, you must invest in commercial vehicle insurance for the following reasons. There are several monetary benefits, some that also save tax in the long run.
Some of them are mentioned below:
Get additional cover
Your regular auto insurance may not cover all costs that arise out of accidents or personal injury involving commercial vehicles. Also, most personal auto insurance policies are not valid for liabilities accrued out of vehicles used for business purposes. This is where commercial truck insurance will provide customized, comprehensive insurance suited to your business needs.
Follow regulations
The law in many states requires business owners to get a commercial vehicle insurance policy. The insurance is mandatory if your business transports goods and hauls heavy-duty equipment. Even if your company provides service from a vehicle, your auto insurance policy will not cover the liabilities. Any business, partnership, or corporation that owns vehicles for commercial use must buy this additional cover.
Customized coverage
One of the main advantages of buying commercial insurance is that you get custom cover for specific damage, repairs, or the replacement of certain parts. The insurance provides for anything necessary to protect your business interest from liabilities that arise out of an unforeseen circumstance. The semi-truck insurance quotes are available at competitive prices and can also be modified seasonally to avoid overpaying insurance.
Employee coverage
Some commercial policies also provide cover for employees who drive the vehicle. If any personal injury or liability arises from an accident or mishap involving the employee, commercial vehicle insurance will provide for these unexpected costs. The policies are also valid for businesses that do not own but rent vehicles for managing logistics.
Beneficial for offsetting costs
Lawsuits can be lengthy, tedious, and create a financial burden on the business. Even though basic auto policies provide cover for lawsuits, commercial vehicle insurance provides double this cover to pay for legal fees, court proceedings, and even damages if the liability falls on the business. More importantly, commercial insurance can be written off as a business expense and is tax-deductible.
Veterans or those on active duty can avail of VA loans for any financing purposes. The federal government guarantees these loans. However, to get them, there are specific steps to be followed for successful application. These steps include everything from looking for the best VA loan lenders to maintaining a stable credit score. Here are a few easy steps to make a successful loan application for veterans.
1. Get preapproval for the VA loan
With preapproval, you can determine your budget. This process involves telling your VA loan lender about your homebuying goals, employment history, and military service. Some documents required during this process include copies of your driver’s license, DD-214 or Guard/Reserve points statements, recent pay stubs, and bank statements.
2. Look for VA-approved loan lenders
Always shop for a lender who is an active participant in the VA loan program. The best VA loan lenders would offer several options and deals. The deals generally differ based on discount points, interest rates, and VA closing costs. If you face any difficulty, a loan officer can help you find the right VA loan lender.
3. Get an eligibility certificate
A certificate of eligibility or COE is proof that you have met all the eligibility criteria for the VA loan. You can obtain the COE directly through the government’s online portal for VA. However, VA loan lenders also offer ways of applying for a COE.
4. Get a contract or purchase agreement signed
A purchase agreement or contract is essential to get ahead with the VA loan process. This contract encompasses multiple contingencies, such as assurance of home inspection, the process of handling repair requests, the number of days for the buyer to secure the finances, and so on. A loan officer and real agent can assist you in preparing a robust contract.
5. VA loan closing
This is the final step. Before loan closing, most VA loan lenders verify your employment and other crucial information for the last time. Then a Closing Disclosure is dispatched right before the loan closing is scheduled. With this document, you can compare the loan information and final closing costs with the initial estimates.
For any industry to sustain itself in today’s world, implementing digital strategies has become indispensable. This holds particularly true for the financial services industry. The good news is that digital transformation in financial services has already begun, and we’ll likely see more and more innovative technologies underpinning banking and financial institutions in the coming years. Keep reading to learn about the latest digital transformation trends in the financial services industry.
Big data and artificial intelligence
The combination of big data and artificial intelligence is a revolutionary digital strategy that is shaping the future of banking and financial services. The technology helps institutions process, store, and drive valuable insights from the data they gather from their customers’ activities. Big data and artificial intelligence allow institutions to create a highly personalized experience, helping businesses attract and retain customers.
Blockchain
Blockchain is a fairly new technology that is becoming increasingly popular in the financial services industry. With blockchain technology, all transactions are permanently stored in the blockchain network, providing the highest level of transparency and security. Nobody can tamper with these transactions, which nearly eliminates the risk of error and fraud. Besides security, the technology is being explored for use in a wide variety of banking and investment applications.
Biometrics
The idea of digital or mobile wallets is convenient for most people. However, some people avoid using these services due to legitimate security concerns. And this is where biometric technology comes in. Fingerprint and face recognition technologies ensure that no one except the rightful owner has access to their funds. With the technology largely in place already, both buyers and sellers prefer using mobile payment over cash and checks.
Cloud computing
Cloud technology is on the rise in the banking and financial services industry. Cloud computing offers institutions a cheaper way to store and analyze enormous amounts of data. Plus, it reduces the roles and responsibilities of the information technology (IT) staff, giving them more time to create value for their organizations. Some reports estimate that medium-sized businesses save considerably on IT spending by migrating to cloud computing.
Robotic process automation (RPA)
RPA handles laborious and repetitive office tasks, such as customer onboarding, security checks, data analysis and reporting, and risk assessments. The technology has proven to be highly profitable for financial institutions, as it boosts productivity and improves efficiency. It also reduces the risk of human errors significantly.
Buying a home comes with a lot of responsibilities. There are a lot of risks that come with owning a home like the risk of theft and property damage. Investing in the right kind of home insurance policy is important so as to be financially prepared for these risks. There are several different companies in the market that offer home insurance policies with different kinds of terms and coverages.
Remember the following points before choosing a home insurance policy.
When we think of precious metals, gold and silver are two names that come first to the mind. Seasoned investors usually put their capital in these two metals to safeguard against the volatile stock market and inflation. Even central banks and other government entities choose to invest in precious metals. The US government is the largest investor of gold stocks in the world. But finding the best place to buy silver and gold may be difficult for beginners. Let’s take a look a the different modes of investment for these two precious metals.
Exchange-traded funds (ETFs)
There are many ETFs in the market. You can buy gold and silver from the stock market, just like any regular stock. Since the supply of mines is outweighed by hoarded supply in gold, its prices will only fall when hoarders sell and vice-versa. Beginners should start by looking into iShares Gold and Silver Trusts.
Bullion
Traditional buyers usually prefer to buy gold and silver coins in their physical form. The best place to buy silver and gold bullion coins is the US mint, or you can contact any local coin supplier. The American Eagle, Canadian Maple Leaf, and South African Krugerrand contain certain proportions of gold depending on the currency value. Silver coins are increasingly rare but available in the numismatic market.
Certificates
You can buy gold and silver in the form of certificates from brokers. If you don’t wish to deal with the hassle of storing precious metal, this is a good option. However, they aren’t worth anything in times of emergency since they are just pieces of paper, so getting insurance or mortgaging them is tough.
Common stocks
There are plenty of companies that deal in gold and silver. You can invest in their shares through the NASDAQ exchange. But gold and silver stocks are valued a bit differently than regular stocks, so research is needed before diving into this option. You can get in touch with fund managers and consultancy companies for a better understanding.
Derivatives
Another way of buying gold and silver is through the derivative market. The purchasers here make money by changes in commodity prices. Those willing to invest a large sum of money will find this option ideal. It is a risky affair but the reward is much higher than other modes of investments.
People who wish to set up their business ventures need additional funding to get going. Many banks and financial institutions help promising businesses with the same and in this article, we would be covering guaranteed business loan providers. You can check the following list out when looking for business loan providers.
Wells Fargo
Wells Fargo is one of the best financial institutions when it comes to guaranteed business loan providers in the market. It offers various other financial products. It claims to be a leader when it comes to small business loans. The unsecured business loan has varied loan amounts starting from $10,000 and going up to $100,000. The term for this product is between one to five years. Additionally, you can go for other loans offered by Wells Fargo, such as the Equipment Express Loan or the Advancing Term Loan.
Capital One
Capital One does not only offer good deals on business credit cards, its business loan is worth considering too. If you are looking at a funding source that can help expand your business or get going with the operations, then we highly recommend you to choose the business loan offered by Capital One. Starting at a minimal amount of $10,000 and a maximum term length of 5 years, the repayment term is simple and can be done on a monthly basis.
Huntington Bank
As a business owner, if you are looking for varied options with different interest rates, then Huntington Bank is a great option to consider. Its business line of credit is a good option to consider. However, apart from this, you must check out the business term loans offered by the bank. Huntington Bank has earned a reputation of being a top lender for Small Business Administration (SBA) loans.
TD Bank
TD Bank offers lines of credit as well as commercial and loans mortgages. With commercial and loans mortgages, you can borrow up to $100,000. There are larger loans available for established commercial business ventures. The SBA loan options are quite flexible and lease options are available for refinancing as well as equipment purchase. The lines of credit are quite beneficial as well and you can definitely trust the bank to provide you with competitive interest rates.
Celtic Bank
Celtic Bank offers different business loans such as SBA 7(a) Loans, Express Term Loans, Conventional Equipment Loans, and SBA (504) Loans among various other offerings. So, if you are looking for a wide variety of options, you may consider this bank and select the suitable business loan offering. The bank also offers asset-based Lines of Credit with a tenure ranging from one year to ten years wherein the loan amount ranges from $250,000 to $500,000. This gives you the flexibility to opt for this offering as per your convenience.
You may opt for a guaranteed business loan after thoroughly analyzing all the offerings of the noted aforementioned business loan providers. It is recommended to choose the one that offers the lowest interest rates along with maximum flexibility in terms of the loan amount and repayment tenure.