Staying Accountable with a Free Financial Coach

March 12, 2024| Jason Stewart| 0 Comment| 12:00 am

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How a Free Financial Coach Helps You Stay on Track with Your Money Goals Throughout the Year

Beyond simply crunching numbers, a financial coach is someone who helps you develop healthy money habits and instills confidence in managing your finances. They serve as an accountability partner who keeps you motivated and on track toward achieving your desired financial outcomes. Whether you set a New Year’s resolution to save more money, pay down debt, or start building wealth, a free financial coach can help keep you on track along your journey to financial wellness.

GET HELP CREATING A PERSONALIZED BUDGET THAT ALIGNS WITH YOUR FINANCIAL GOALS AND LIFESTYLE CHOICES

A financial coach understands that each individual has unique circumstances and priorities. They take the time to listen to your specific needs and help you create a budget that not only addresses your immediate concerns but also sets you up for long-term success.

One of the key benefits of working with a certified financial coach from Canopy is their ability to help you craft a budgeting strategy that you’ll actually stick to. They provide guidance and support throughout the process, making sure you understand the importance of tracking expenses, identifying areas where adjustments can be made, and finding creative solutions for saving more money.

Over time, you’ll learn to take control of your finances in a way that feels manageable and sustainable. With their guiding expertise at your side, you’ll have the tools necessary to make informed decisions about spending, saving, and ultimately achieving greater financial stability.

RECEIVE TIPS FOR MANAGING DEBT EFFECTIVELY TO ACHIEVE LONG-TERM FINANCIAL STABILITY

In today’s fast-paced and often financially challenging world, managing debt can be a source of stress and anxiety for many individuals. However, there is a solution that can help alleviate this burden and pave the way towards long-term stability: working with a free financial coach.

A financial coach is not just someone who provides tips on managing debt; they are your ally in navigating the complex world of money management. They understand the unique challenges you may be facing and offer personalized guidance tailored to your specific situation.

One of the greatest benefits of working with a financial coach is the ability to reduce stress. Debt can weigh heavily on our minds, affecting our overall well-being and quality of life. A skilled coach will not only provide practical strategies for paying off debt but also offer empathy and compassionate support throughout the process.

Best of all, the financial coaches at Canopy Credit Union offer this service completely free of charge, to both members and non-members of the credit union. This means that anyone, regardless of their financial situation, can access expert advice regardless of how much is in their checking account. This service is an opportunity to gain valuable insights from professionals who genuinely care about helping you achieve your long-term financial goals.

LEARN STRATEGIES FOR SAVING MONEY AND BUILDING AN EMERGENCY FUND

In uncertain times, having a solid emergency fund can bring a sense of Security and peace of mind. It serves as a financial cushion that can help navigate unexpected expenses or job loss. However, building an emergency fund requires discipline and strategic planning.

One of the most effective strategies for saving money and building an emergency fund is to create a budget that fits this consistent savings goal within its framework. By tracking your expenses and identifying areas where you can cut back, you can allocate more funds toward your savings. This may involve making small sacrifices in your daily spending habits, such as eating out less frequently or finding cost-effective alternatives for entertainment.

Automating your savings is another powerful strategy. Set up automatic transfers from your checking account to a separate savings account specifically designated for your emergency fund. This way, you won’t have to rely on willpower alone to save; it becomes a consistent habit that happens automatically.

It’s also important to explore ways to save more money in your everyday life. Look for opportunities to reduce Monthly bills by negotiating with service providers or switching to more affordable options. Additionally, consider embracing frugal habits such as couponing, buying in bulk, or opting for second-hand items when possible.

While saving is crucial, it’s equally important to maximize the growth of your emergency fund through smart investments. Explore high-yield savings accounts or CD/term share options that offer competitive interest rates. Remember that the goal is not only saving but also allowing your money to work for you over time.

Lastly, maintaining motivation and staying focused on the long-term benefits of having an emergency fund is essential throughout this process. Celebrate small milestones along the way and remind yourself of the security and freedom that comes with financial preparedness. Plus having a free financial coach at your side to guide you along the way will help you stick with your goals for the long term.

By implementing these strategies and consistently prioritizing saving, you can build an emergency fund that provides stability during unforeseen circumstances while also fostering healthy financial habits for the future.

FINALLY, DISCOVER HOW TO GROW WEALTH OVER TIME

A financial coach understands that before you can start building wealth, it’s essential to address certain foundational elements. First comes debt management – they will assist you in creating a plan to pay off any outstanding debts efficiently. By managing your debt effectively, you can free up more resources to allocate towards building an emergency fund and putting resources towards wealth-building activities.
Throughout this journey, a compassionate financial coach recognizes that everyone’s situation is unique. They will listen attentively to your concerns and tailor their guidance accordingly. Their goal is not only to help you build wealth but also to empower you with financial literacy so that you can maintain long-term financial stability.

By working alongside a knowledgeable financial coach, individuals can gain the confidence necessary to make sound financial decisions throughout their lives. Together, they lay the Foundation for lasting wealth by addressing debt management, establishing an emergency fund, growing net worth, and harnessing the power of strategic investments.

By partnering with a free financial coach, you can stay accountable to your money goals throughout the year. Their guidance and support will help you navigate challenges, track progress, and make informed decisions that align with your long-term financial well-being.

Schedule your first appointment and start working with one of Canopy’s free financial coaches today.

Canopy Credit Union

2024 IRMAA Brackets: Amounts and How to Forecast for Retirement2024 IRMAA Brackets: Amounts and How to Forecast for Retirement

May 25, 2024| Pearl Green| 0 Comment| 12:00 am

What is IRMAA:

IRMAA is short for Medicare’s Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount which is according to the Code of Federal Regulations:

“An amount that you will pay for your Medicare Part B and D coverage when your modified adjusted gross income is above the certain thresholds.”

IRMAA is a tax on your income through Medicare Part B and Part D coverage if you have too much income while in retirement.

Will you actually enter IRMAA:

According to the 2022 Medicare Board of Trustees Report, currently, there are over 6.8 million people in IRMAA. These people in IRMAA make up 16.63% of all eligible Medicare beneficiaries.

By 2031, according to recent reports the number of people in IRMAA will double to 13.8 million eligible people in IRMAA.

IRMAA is a revenue generator for both the Medicare and Social Security programs.

For the Medicare Program, IRMAA is an added cost that the person in it must pay. This added cost provides more money each year for the program.

As for Social Security, according to Congress, all IRMAA costs are automatically deducted from any Social Security benefit a person is receiving. Thus, for those who enter IRMAA, Social Security has to pay out less to them which reduces that program’s obligation to pay benefits.

With both Medicare and Social Security projected by the government to be insolvent (unable to pay) in less than 8 years the easiest way to save these programs is to make sure more people are in IRMAA.

How do you reach an IRMAA bracket:

IRMAA is all about your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI).

The more of it you have the higher the chances that you have to reaching IRMAA while having less of an MAGI reduces the chance of you reaching IRMAA.

What counts towards your MAGI:

According to Social Security your MAGI is the total of your adjusted gross income (AGI) and any tax-exempt interest you may have.

Both of these can be found on lines 2a and 11 of your 2022 IRS tax form 1040.

Some examples of where your MAGI will come from are:

Taxable Social Security benefits	Traditional 401(k) Withdrawals
Wages	Traditional IRA Withdrawals
Pension & Rental Income	Traditional 403(b) Withdrawals
Capital Gains	Qualified Annuities
Dividends	Interest

If you want to avoid IRMAA all together then the goal is to generate an income from financial instruments that do not count towards your MAGI and they are:

Roth Account Withdrawals

Life Insurance Loans

Non-Qualified Annuities*

Health Saving Account Withdrawals

401(h) Plans

Home Loans or Reverse Mortgages

*Non-Qualified Annuities – depending on certain factors a certain portion of all income you will receive from them can be completely tax free. Please see an IRMAA Certified Professional for more information on which Annuity is best for you.

For a complete list of what does and does not count towards IRMAA please click here.

How to File an Appeal

If you feel you shouldn’t be subject to IRMAA, you can file an appeal. What you do comes down to how you want to appeal.

For Medicare enrollees with a qualifying life changing event:

All that needs to be done is for you to fill out the SSA-44 form by competing the first 3 pages and then submit it with your corresponding proof of your life changing event to your local SSA office.

You can find your local SSA office here.

Once the paperwork is submitted all correspondence about your appeal will be mailed to you from the SSA. If the result is not satisfactory you can request a hearing which can also be done through your local SSA office.

For Medicare enrollees without a qualifying life changing event but who want to appeal based on an updated tax-return or income discrepancy:

Appealing IRMAA is even simpler than have a qualifying life changing event as all that is needed to be done is for you to request an appeal at your local SSA office.

Explain to the local field Representative that you have a received an IRMAA notification and that you like to appeal based on updated tax information.

A case number will be assigned to you as well as Field Agent, which could be the person at your local office, so always be nice and any correspondence about your case ill be mailed to you by the SSA.

If the IRMAA result is not satisfactory you can always request a hearing at your local SSA office too.

At the point of request your local agent will be able to submit your appeal and a case number at that moment should be assigned to you. As your case is evolving you will have to provide documentation that disproves the information that the IRS has provided which can be a corrected or amended tax-return or even a more update one

Conclusion:

The 2024 IRMAA Brackets are, by law, going to increase, but the odds of you or someone you know reaching IRMAA at some point are also increasing.

Lease vs. Buying: Making the Right Decision for Your Next VehicleLease vs. Buying: Making the Right Decision for Your Next Vehicle

June 27, 2023| Victoria| 0 Comment| 12:00 am

An Introduction to Car Leasing and Buying

When it comes to getting a new vehicle, many people are left with the dilemma of whether to rent or to buy. Leasing is often compared to a long-term rental, where you make a down payment and follow it up with Monthly payments in exchange for the use of the car for a predetermined period (typically 24, 36, or 48 months). On the other hand, buying a car means paying for the full cost of the vehicle, either outright or through a car loan. Both options have their pros and cons. This article aims to give you in-depth insight into when to rent and when to buy a vehicle, as well as information on how to find a good renting offer and make an informed decision.

Renting a Car: Pros and Cons for Self-Employed and Private Individuals

Benefits of Leasing

Leasing a car can be appealing, especially to self-employed individuals, who can take advantage of fixed monthly payments that fit into their budget. Furthermore, certain rental agreements may offer special conditions, such as free maintenance, that can be tax-deductible. This helps reduce the overall cost of car ownership. Private individuals may also find leasing financially advantageous. Renting often has lower monthly payments compared to buying, and it allows people to drive a new car every few years without the significant upfront cost of purchasing. This means being able to enjoy the latest technologies and advancements without breaking the bank.

Drawbacks of Renting

Despite the benefits mentioned above, renting a car comes with some disadvantages. For one, the vehicle is never truly yours. You make monthly payments with no real end in sight unless you decide to pay off the remainder to purchase the car. Secondly, lease agreements usually come with strict mileage limits, and exceeding those limits can result in additional fees.

Identifying a Good Rental Offer

To find the best leasing deal, you need to consider several factors. Here are the main aspects to look out for:

The Leasing Factor

The leasing factor is a crucial element to compare and identify good leasing offers. It is an objective comparison value calculated from several relevant renting parameters such as the renting rate, residual value, special payments, rental term, and list price of the car. A lower leasing factor usually indicates a better offer.

One-Time Additional Costs

Be aware of the one-time additional costs that may accompany a rental agreement. These costs may include down payment options and various fees such as documentation and acquisition fees. Make sure to account for these when calculating the overall cost of leasing.

Lease Term, Mileage, and Residual Value

Another critical factor to consider is the rental term, which determines the length of the rental agreement. Shorter terms usually come with higher monthly payments, while longer terms may have lower monthly payments but higher total costs. Make sure to also consider if the annual mileage allowance is sufficient for your needs, and if there are any implications due to the estimated residual value of the vehicle at the end of the lease.

Leasing vs. Buying a Vehicle for Private Individuals

To decide whether leasing or buying a vehicle is the right choice for you as a private individual, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons based on your specific needs and Financial circumstances. Leasing may be cheaper in the short term, but remember to consider all the costs involved, including monthly payments, insurance, and the potential for a shortfall in the estimated residual value of the car at the end of the lease.

Conclusion

The decision to lease or buy a vehicle ultimately depends on your personal needs, financial resources, and long-term plans. Consider all the factors mentioned in this article and calculate the overall costs of both options before making the decision. If you enjoy driving a new vehicle every few years without the large upfront expense of purchasing, renting could be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer the idea of owning your vehicle outright and not having mileage limitations, buying may be the better option.

The Good,the Bad and Sleep ApneaThe Good,the Bad and Sleep Apnea

March 1, 2019| Victoria| 0 Comment| 12:00 am

Using Sleep Apnea

Besides remedies,a normal sleep pattern is also important to maintain solid; substantial quality. The sleep technician will attach many sensors to your body to observe your movements as you sleep. You could also quit breathing for brief periods of time throughout the night when you are asleep.

There is a variety of forms of congenital heart defects that might influence the valves,ventricles,septum,etc.. A little baby stores a more compact quantity of oxygen,therefore the consequences of oxygen deprivation are more severe. On the grounds of the outcomes of these tests,the intensity of the problem is detected.

Popular Obstructive Sleep Apnea Symptoms Here are some of the most usual obstructive sleep apnea symptoms which have been reported. Some sleep disorders may also have health complications if they’re left untreated. Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome may cause death,and so,medical help has to be sought if such symptoms are experienced.

If your son or daughter suffers from the indications of sleep apnea,speak with your pediatrician. It is likewise know to result in infertility in women and men. If you think that you’re experiencing at least one of the aforementioned symptoms,it would be better to go to the physician for more help.

Doctors wish to be in a position to `fix’ problems. Testosterone therapy is advisable to people who exhibit the above mentioned symptoms. It may work to reverse this problem,but you must be aware of the side effects before you plan to get this treatment.

Their symptoms though similar,aren’t the same. Generally,it’s hard to recognize the indications of cardiomyopathy in the early phases. You will understand the subsequent symptoms quickly.

If you’re a person who has obstructive sleep apnea,narcolepsy or significant blood pressure,it’s always more advisable to prevent this herb. If you’re experiencing one of these indicators or symptoms,you might have obstructive sleep apnea. It’s among the most pronounced signs of obstructive sleep apnea.

In such a scenario,one ought to look at the medications they’re taking,and steer clear of the consumption of alcohol or caffeine. Deficiency of sleep,in itself,can cause many different problems in toddlers. The shortage of oxygen can permit you to awaken frequently throughout the night,and may lead to insomnia.

You ought to be mindful that obesity and substantial blood pressure are a few of the most frequent causes or risk factors of heart diseases. The impacts of the disease aren’t restricted to just these signs. Other causes could include stress,higher blood pressure,hormonal difficulties,aging,etc..

The Benefits of Sleep Apnea

A very good night’s sleep is valuable to great well-being. There are three sorts of sleep apnea. There are basically they.

You should avoid an excessive amount of caffeine or sugar. This vitamin is made by the body,in the existence of sunlight. It may become hard for you to have a fantastic night’s sleep since these boosters may lead to sleep apnea,or perhaps,even allow it to be worse.

It is necessary to consult with a physician or a different medical professional immediately if you believe your son or daughter might have sleep apnea. An entire sleep study typically is necessary to learn if your child has sleep apnea and isn’t just snoring. So,even if your child has absolutely no symptoms that you could see for sleep apnea,it’s still critical to acquire the study as they can frequently have sleep apnea.

Several kinds of masks are easily obtainable. Also make certain that your mask fits well. Such masks are somewhat more comfortable.

Sleep Apnea – Is it a Scam?

Mentioned below are the regions of the body which will probably develop the pain. Some people don’t develop any symptom,and the condition may stay undetected during their whole lifetime. The condition impacts the physical look,and the well-being of the affected person.

Some men and women wake up during the evening and after that they find it challenging to fall back to sleep. In the majority of people,it’s not an important wellness issue. Such people may afford to relax and simply attempt to make sure that it remains on as much as possible.

The individual who doesn’t appear to have a care on earth. It happens when a person just does not be plenty of time for an adequate sum of sleep. If somebody often walks in sleep,it would be better to seek out medical aid to recognize and treat the underlying cause.

The Hidden Gem of Sleep Apnea

It is necessary to follow along with the physician’s directions on medication usage. The ideal sleep clinics are the ones that resemble a fine hotel instead of a sterile hospital atmosphere. No matter your treatment,don’t forget that you aren’t alone and help is available.

Essentially,if you think that something could possibly be wrong,and you’ve experienced any of the symptoms which have been mentioned,then you are going to want to schedule an appointment with your doctor. He may be subjected to food restrictions for a few days after the surgery. The physician may advice you some particular diet.