I thought some of you might be interested in the recent updates at eBay. These price changes will take effect February 20, 2008.
Insertion fees have been lowered. Formerly, auctions starting at .01 to .99 were charged a .20 insertion fee. That has been lowered to .15, which helps a lot if you are posting a lot of auctions. Saving a nickel on each one doesn't sound like much, but if you list 50 auctions a week, you wind up saving $2.50. Multiplied over a year's time, that's $130.
The higher your starting price for your auction or fixed price listing, the more savings you get.
They have also set it up now so that Gallery pictures are free for auctions, fixed price listings, store inventory listings, and classified ads.
However, they have increased Final Value Fees.
.01 to $25 listings will increase FVF from 5.25% to 8.75% of the closing value. Power Sellers can get up to a 15% discount on these if they meet certain conditions. FVF for store listings will go from 10% to 12% of the closing value. Of course, for either one, the higher closing costs incur different fees. These are just the basic examples I'm presenting to you.
Fees for Gallery Plus, Picture Pack, and Feature Plus have been reduced as well.
Feedback issues have been addressed and there are changes coming for that as well. Login to your eBay account and check your messages for the full details of all these things.
Selasa, 29 Januari 2008
Senin, 28 Januari 2008
Tax preparation - H&R Block
Who prepares your tax return? Do you do this yourself? There was a time in my life when I could do that pretty easily. Danny got the W-2 and 1099 forms from employers and all I had to do was put the numbers in the right places and use the charts provided in the IRS tax booklet. However, I didn't attempt to deduct for things like mileage, clothing purchases for work clothes, and other deductions I probably could have taken. When it comes to those things, I'm a pretty timid filer.
So, in more recent years, I've used a local tax preparer service. They stay up-to-date on tax law, they know all the deductions that can legally be taken without throwing up a red flag, and they keep my records private. I do NOT use H&R Block.
Year before last, both my younger kids decided to take advantage of the H&R Block rewards program to file their taxes through them. Both were disappointed, not only with the small amount of the refund but also with the high fees incurred which robbed them even further of refund money. In fact, my son never did even get his cash reward from Block, nor his tax refund from the IRS. The IRS claims to have sent it, but it was never received by us. I have a sneaking suspicion that it went into the preparer's pocket, but there's no way to prove this.
H&R Block's business dealings have been fraught with trouble for a long time. From the California law suit against them regarding their so-called "instant refunds", to their own failure to fully report their income, to their lack of security when it comes to their customers' identities, I think this is a bad company to do business with on many levels.
I plan to use the preparer I've used and trusted for years now.
So, in more recent years, I've used a local tax preparer service. They stay up-to-date on tax law, they know all the deductions that can legally be taken without throwing up a red flag, and they keep my records private. I do NOT use H&R Block.
Year before last, both my younger kids decided to take advantage of the H&R Block rewards program to file their taxes through them. Both were disappointed, not only with the small amount of the refund but also with the high fees incurred which robbed them even further of refund money. In fact, my son never did even get his cash reward from Block, nor his tax refund from the IRS. The IRS claims to have sent it, but it was never received by us. I have a sneaking suspicion that it went into the preparer's pocket, but there's no way to prove this.
H&R Block's business dealings have been fraught with trouble for a long time. From the California law suit against them regarding their so-called "instant refunds", to their own failure to fully report their income, to their lack of security when it comes to their customers' identities, I think this is a bad company to do business with on many levels.
I plan to use the preparer I've used and trusted for years now.
Donate a car to CarAngel
Above is a sample of the kind of wonderful and inspiring videos that CarAngel.com is able to provide to children. People who donate cars, boats, RVs, and other means of transportation and recreation are helping CarAngel to pay for the production of these and other videos that will wind up in the hands of children, inspiring them to reach further within themselves and into God's hope and resources for them. Children who receive these videos receive the gift of hope.
CarAngel.com has given away over 2.4 million videos to date, and can continue to produce and give them away only through the generous efforts of people like you and me. They will send you the information of just how to donate a vehicle. They will also supply you with a receipt that you can use for your charitable donations when you file your taxes. Not only that, but they will make all the arrangements to pick up the vehicle you're donating. They make everything so easy.
Please consider helping this organization help children, teens, and prisoners to improve their lives through better choices.
Lookers and watchers
So far, I have had several lookers for my eBay auctions. I've even got one watcher. But so far, no one has started the bidding there.
I'm going to list a few more books, probably tomorrow, so there'll be more variety in the auctions. That tends to draw in more people who could wind up being actual bidders. After all, if no one bids on these, no one buys them, which really stinks for me. It also stinks for them because they'll miss out on some really good deals!
I'm going to list a few more books, probably tomorrow, so there'll be more variety in the auctions. That tends to draw in more people who could wind up being actual bidders. After all, if no one bids on these, no one buys them, which really stinks for me. It also stinks for them because they'll miss out on some really good deals!
Sabtu, 26 Januari 2008
Brandon's birthday
I've already gotten Brandon something for his birthday, which isn't until March, and I've given it to him. I got a great deal on a soldering gun kit complete with solder and various tips for different jobs. He'd been talking about wanting one.
However, I'd still like to surprise him with something nicer - more personal. He is a meticulous dresser. When he goes on a date, he likes to wear something very nice, not at all grungy. I thought I might go to one of the men's shops in town and get him a really nice shirt and a pair of cufflinks. He's already got some very dressy pants and several nice ties, but his shirts are a bit, um, casual for the most part. Since he has a great looking double breasted navy wool suit jacket, he'd look pretty sharp in a dress shirt to go with it, I think.
He doesn't read this blog, so feel free to offer your opinions!
However, I'd still like to surprise him with something nicer - more personal. He is a meticulous dresser. When he goes on a date, he likes to wear something very nice, not at all grungy. I thought I might go to one of the men's shops in town and get him a really nice shirt and a pair of cufflinks. He's already got some very dressy pants and several nice ties, but his shirts are a bit, um, casual for the most part. Since he has a great looking double breasted navy wool suit jacket, he'd look pretty sharp in a dress shirt to go with it, I think.
He doesn't read this blog, so feel free to offer your opinions!
Kamis, 24 Januari 2008
Spanish curriculum auction
Because of eBay's rules against listing teacher's editions, I've chosen to list a Spanish curriculum at ThisLittlePiggyStaysHome.com, a homeschool auction site set up specifically so that homeschoolers can sell their curricula complete with teacher's editions.
I used this service a couple of years ago and was extremely satisfied with the results there. Auctions went well and there are no listing fees. Only final value fees. It's easy to list auctions there and takes almost no time at all to get one up and running.
Because I have so many teacher's editions to go along with the sets of books I have to offer, the lion's share of my auctions will be at TLPSH, with only a few things over at eBay. Anytime you're looking for my auctions here, you can just do a search for my user name and they'll all come up: homeschoolzoobooks.
I used this service a couple of years ago and was extremely satisfied with the results there. Auctions went well and there are no listing fees. Only final value fees. It's easy to list auctions there and takes almost no time at all to get one up and running.
Because I have so many teacher's editions to go along with the sets of books I have to offer, the lion's share of my auctions will be at TLPSH, with only a few things over at eBay. Anytime you're looking for my auctions here, you can just do a search for my user name and they'll all come up: homeschoolzoobooks.
Ebay listings
I've finally gotten around to adding a couple of auction listings on eBay. I have to watch myself or I'll wind up going hog-wild doing listings! I used to list anywhere from 50 to 75 items a week over there.
I did pretty well, but my time now is more limited. If the auctions take off, then I'll consider listing more at a time but for now, two or three are plenty to keep track of. I've got a Spanish Language curriculum to list, still. I'll get pictures of it and get it uploaded tonight.
In the meantime, if you'd like to take a look at my auctions, you can visit my Homeschoolzoobooks eBay Auctions page and take a look around.
I did pretty well, but my time now is more limited. If the auctions take off, then I'll consider listing more at a time but for now, two or three are plenty to keep track of. I've got a Spanish Language curriculum to list, still. I'll get pictures of it and get it uploaded tonight.
In the meantime, if you'd like to take a look at my auctions, you can visit my Homeschoolzoobooks eBay Auctions page and take a look around.
Senin, 21 Januari 2008
Birthday report
Yesterday was my birthday. My kids took me out to dinner then Brandon took me shopping for some new clothes. Elizabeth came along and helped me pick out some things. She has an eye for style and for what suits me.
Elizabeth had already given me some new makeup, a big bottle of nice lotion from Bath and Body Works, and a new blouse. We laughed about that, since it was just like another one I'd bought for myself, only a different color! She said she almost bought that other color..lol.
We shopped clearance racks, of course. I can't bring myself to justify paying full price for anything. I'm too much of a cheapskate, even when someone else is doing the paying. If we'd shopped online, I'd have been the same way. I'd have used a Bluefly coupon or some other coupon code to get the best possible price.
With fuel what it is today, and heating fuel also going higher, a person has to save money where ever they can!
Elizabeth had already given me some new makeup, a big bottle of nice lotion from Bath and Body Works, and a new blouse. We laughed about that, since it was just like another one I'd bought for myself, only a different color! She said she almost bought that other color..lol.
We shopped clearance racks, of course. I can't bring myself to justify paying full price for anything. I'm too much of a cheapskate, even when someone else is doing the paying. If we'd shopped online, I'd have been the same way. I'd have used a Bluefly coupon or some other coupon code to get the best possible price.
With fuel what it is today, and heating fuel also going higher, a person has to save money where ever they can!
Minggu, 20 Januari 2008
My computer friend
My laptop computer is my friend when it comes to doing business online and doing searches for particular information. Because of that, I've made sure my popup blocker works well, and that I can disable it if necessary to fill out forms that may appear in a new window.
The blocker prevents other popups, mostly ads, that I don't want to see and don't want downloaded to my computer. Sometimes, there is spyware or other malware included in those popups that can severely affect how my computer operates. Because this is my business tool, I do my best to keep it in top running condition.
The blocker prevents other popups, mostly ads, that I don't want to see and don't want downloaded to my computer. Sometimes, there is spyware or other malware included in those popups that can severely affect how my computer operates. Because this is my business tool, I do my best to keep it in top running condition.
- I've added extra RAM, and will probably add more.
- I run disk cleanup at regular intervals.
- I keep a spyware removal program on it.
- I don't visit sites that the McAfee SiteAdvisor displays as questionable or "red zone".
- I only download from trusted sites.
- I don't open email attachments unless I personally know the person and they have told me what the attachment is.
- I protect my laptop with a padded carrying case when I take it with me.
- I use a cool pad under it to draw away the heat it generates.
- I run a virus scan daily.
Document your business purchases
It's only January, but now is the time to be keeping good records for your home based business. This includes documenting travel and purchases that are associated with it.
I mentioned in the previous post that I sometimes travel to visit my Mom and Sis in another city. It's about 100 miles from here, but according to maps for shortest distance, the reality is that I can probably only claim about 80 miles because there really is a shorter route. It's just that the traveling isn't as good on that route and I don't like driving where services are few and far between.
If I make business purchases while I'm in their town, I can claim those miles as business travel. The fact is, I do make purchases there quite frequently, because I can find great stuff there that I can't find locally. It's important to be sure to document the miles and the purchases along with dates and locations. Keep receipts for those purchases with the documentation, too.
Bear in mind, if you shop at a local yard sale you probably won't get a receipt. This is where a journal entry is vital. I write down the location of the yard sale, the things I purchased, and the price I paid for them. Yard sale purchases are most often made with cash, so I don't have a check that I can use as a receipt. I also try to only visit yard sales that are advertised in the local newspaper so that those ads can be a sort of verification of where I shopped.
Some places do give a printed receipt, but they might not have the store name and other important information on it. They may be using a calculator or an old cash register. Immediately, I write the store name, date, and items on that receipt, even if I have to write it all on the back. Of course, it's added to my purchases journal.
These are the kinds of situations that call for special documentation so that you can claim them against your income at the end of the year. Be specific and be diligent!
I mentioned in the previous post that I sometimes travel to visit my Mom and Sis in another city. It's about 100 miles from here, but according to maps for shortest distance, the reality is that I can probably only claim about 80 miles because there really is a shorter route. It's just that the traveling isn't as good on that route and I don't like driving where services are few and far between.
If I make business purchases while I'm in their town, I can claim those miles as business travel. The fact is, I do make purchases there quite frequently, because I can find great stuff there that I can't find locally. It's important to be sure to document the miles and the purchases along with dates and locations. Keep receipts for those purchases with the documentation, too.
Bear in mind, if you shop at a local yard sale you probably won't get a receipt. This is where a journal entry is vital. I write down the location of the yard sale, the things I purchased, and the price I paid for them. Yard sale purchases are most often made with cash, so I don't have a check that I can use as a receipt. I also try to only visit yard sales that are advertised in the local newspaper so that those ads can be a sort of verification of where I shopped.
Some places do give a printed receipt, but they might not have the store name and other important information on it. They may be using a calculator or an old cash register. Immediately, I write the store name, date, and items on that receipt, even if I have to write it all on the back. Of course, it's added to my purchases journal.
These are the kinds of situations that call for special documentation so that you can claim them against your income at the end of the year. Be specific and be diligent!
Sabtu, 19 Januari 2008
Types of eBay sales
While I'll start my eBay sales with books because that's what I'm most familiar with as far as selling on online auctions, I'll also be adding other items that you may find useful or interesting.
From time to time, I go up to visit my Mom and Sis. Where they live are some great places to find unusual items that I simply can't find around here, and that I don't generally see other places either. These items range from kitchen utensils to books to jewelry items like pretty gold bangles and necklaces. I even find some garden decor and other decor items that are very reasonably priced, so I can pass the savings along to my eBay customers.
I've always had fun selling on eBay and I've met some very nice people - some that I'm still in contact with on a friendly basis! That's always satisfying, knowing you've made friends with people who have done business with you.
From time to time, I go up to visit my Mom and Sis. Where they live are some great places to find unusual items that I simply can't find around here, and that I don't generally see other places either. These items range from kitchen utensils to books to jewelry items like pretty gold bangles and necklaces. I even find some garden decor and other decor items that are very reasonably priced, so I can pass the savings along to my eBay customers.
I've always had fun selling on eBay and I've met some very nice people - some that I'm still in contact with on a friendly basis! That's always satisfying, knowing you've made friends with people who have done business with you.
It's eBay time again
I'll be getting some auctions ready and loaded to eBay in the next few days. In the past, I've done fairly well with eBay as my supplemental income. In fact, had it not been for eBay income, I don't know what we would have done when Danny got diagnosed with cancer. We went from his weekly paycheck to $0 coming in.
While he was in the hospital, I'd run home and load some auctions, take a shower, then run back to the hospital to stay with him. That went on for nearly two weeks, until he was well enough from the pneumonia that put him in the ER to begin with to come home again.
Our lives were never the same, though, and it was several weeks before his SSI kicked in. That meant that I worked feverishly to keep auctions going, while also taking care of him and making sure he got his meds when he was supposed to.
Ebay isn't a perfect solution, but it can be a good solution if you need some money coming in to supplement what you're already making or to tide you over in emergencies, such as we had.
I'm just starting to use a newer feature called "My World" and may eventually add an eBay blog to the mix. I should have at least a couple of auctions loaded by tomorrow, so be sure to check in! Look for me, homeschoolzoobooks, at eBay.
While he was in the hospital, I'd run home and load some auctions, take a shower, then run back to the hospital to stay with him. That went on for nearly two weeks, until he was well enough from the pneumonia that put him in the ER to begin with to come home again.
Our lives were never the same, though, and it was several weeks before his SSI kicked in. That meant that I worked feverishly to keep auctions going, while also taking care of him and making sure he got his meds when he was supposed to.
Ebay isn't a perfect solution, but it can be a good solution if you need some money coming in to supplement what you're already making or to tide you over in emergencies, such as we had.
I'm just starting to use a newer feature called "My World" and may eventually add an eBay blog to the mix. I should have at least a couple of auctions loaded by tomorrow, so be sure to check in! Look for me, homeschoolzoobooks, at eBay.
Selasa, 15 Januari 2008
Taking advantage of downtime
While we all certainly hate to learn about work cutbacks and layoffs, especially in our own community, this might be a blessing in disguise. Provided a person has some savings, they might want to look at one of the online degree programs offered by Capella Online University. It's said "work smart, not hard", and this really is a truthful saying. The more you know about your field of interest, the more you are able to generate income in it.
Having a degree certainly increases your chances for job security. After all, if large manufacturers and the public school system can lay people off work, then anyone can. There is no job security unless you have such skills and knowledge that you become indispensable to your employer. I can almost guarantee that those who are losing jobs locally are not part of management or part of the school administrations.
Those of you who are still working an outside job, as I am, might want to consider taking online courses in your free time in order to be prepared for any future layoffs your company might consider financially reasonable. Look into Capella by visiting their site or by calling them for more information. 1-888-CAPELLA (227-3552)
Having a degree certainly increases your chances for job security. After all, if large manufacturers and the public school system can lay people off work, then anyone can. There is no job security unless you have such skills and knowledge that you become indispensable to your employer. I can almost guarantee that those who are losing jobs locally are not part of management or part of the school administrations.
Those of you who are still working an outside job, as I am, might want to consider taking online courses in your free time in order to be prepared for any future layoffs your company might consider financially reasonable. Look into Capella by visiting their site or by calling them for more information. 1-888-CAPELLA (227-3552)
This blog post was based on information provided by Blogitive. For more information, please visit Blogitive.com.
Work slowdowns
Online opportunities to generate income have slowed to nearly nothing over the holidays. I think this is normal as businesses really hit the ground running before the holidays to take advantage of consumer focus on shopping and gift giving. Now, there's a bit of a lull. However, I do believe this will pass and advertisers will once again begin their advertising campaigns in full force.
Locally, two employers have had severe cutbacks in their employees. One large company, which employs hundreds of people, had massive layoffs. This will certainly make a dent in our local economy, but at least the company didn't send people home before the holidays arrived. However, now there will be a couple hundred people out looking for work.
The other employer is actually the public school system. They will be laying people off and not renewing contracts this spring. My older daughter just started teaching in the school system. I haven't heard from her whether this will be affecting her job or not, but usually it's "last hired, first fired" when it comes to letting people go. The only thing really in her favor is that in our state, teacher testing is implemented, which means that tenure isn't the only thing that keeps teachers in their current jobs. They must also pass a test to determine if they really know their subject area and are effective in relating it to students.
Locally, two employers have had severe cutbacks in their employees. One large company, which employs hundreds of people, had massive layoffs. This will certainly make a dent in our local economy, but at least the company didn't send people home before the holidays arrived. However, now there will be a couple hundred people out looking for work.
The other employer is actually the public school system. They will be laying people off and not renewing contracts this spring. My older daughter just started teaching in the school system. I haven't heard from her whether this will be affecting her job or not, but usually it's "last hired, first fired" when it comes to letting people go. The only thing really in her favor is that in our state, teacher testing is implemented, which means that tenure isn't the only thing that keeps teachers in their current jobs. They must also pass a test to determine if they really know their subject area and are effective in relating it to students.
Senin, 14 Januari 2008
Saving on glasses
Having a daughter who works for an ophthalmologist is a definite advantage. I can get some good discounts there on prescription glasses. Even so, I can't get the super low prices og this Great Discovry: $ 8 Prescription Glasses From Zenni Optical. My glasses wound up costing me over $150, and that was with having a free eye exam! I'm about due for new glasses, since mine aren't doing such a good job for me anymore. It's only logical that this time 'round, I'll be getting my exam then using the prescription someplace else to keep expenses low.
I think I'll go ahead and make an appointment in the next few days. I can't do business very well if I can't see words and numbers clearly! ZenniOptical.com is able to offer such a low price because there's no middleman. And they can do this in part because they fabricate their own frames. Savoing where ever you can is also a good business practice.
I think I'll go ahead and make an appointment in the next few days. I can't do business very well if I can't see words and numbers clearly! ZenniOptical.com is able to offer such a low price because there's no middleman. And they can do this in part because they fabricate their own frames. Savoing where ever you can is also a good business practice.
Self Employed
Do those words, "Self Employed", sound like music to your ears? They certainly do to mine. The fact is, I've been self-employed in the past and for me, it's the best of all possible worlds. Not always the easiest, but the best, nonetheless.
Far back in the past, I owned and operated a dog grooming salon. I really got my feet wet doing that because I did all my own record keeping, maintenance, and advertising. It paid well, though, and was worth all the hard work.
My next experience in being self-employed was operating my eBay store. A lot of work went into describing all the various items I had for sale, taking pictures of them, and maintaining good recoreds. I mostly sold books, especially homeschool curriculum.
Now, I do some paid posts in my blogs to help supplement my regular pay. Still, I dream of the day when, if someone asks where I work, I can tell them I'm self-employed.
Far back in the past, I owned and operated a dog grooming salon. I really got my feet wet doing that because I did all my own record keeping, maintenance, and advertising. It paid well, though, and was worth all the hard work.
My next experience in being self-employed was operating my eBay store. A lot of work went into describing all the various items I had for sale, taking pictures of them, and maintaining good recoreds. I mostly sold books, especially homeschool curriculum.
Now, I do some paid posts in my blogs to help supplement my regular pay. Still, I dream of the day when, if someone asks where I work, I can tell them I'm self-employed.
Minggu, 13 Januari 2008
Goals for saving
It's really not enough to say to yourself, "I'm going to start saving some money and set it aside." You really have to have some focus to your saving - a goal. It's easier to save money when you set a goal, such as a new car or a vacation trip to Branson Missouri. You're more likely to remain committed to saving when you have an end result to reach for.
The beginning of a new year is a very good time to start saving toward your goal, whether it's a vacation or gifts for next Christmas or freeing yourself of a debt. Today is a great day to begin!
The beginning of a new year is a very good time to start saving toward your goal, whether it's a vacation or gifts for next Christmas or freeing yourself of a debt. Today is a great day to begin!
Mailing organization
I admit that I need to implement a better way to keep all my items related to mailing in a central location and contained so that all the components are easy to find and use. A mailing center can be as simple as having a nice sized shoe box where you put envelopes, stamps, and address labels.
You can take this a step further by organizing greeting cards you'll be sending out over the year's time. Things such as birthday cards, holiday greeting cards, communion invitations, and thank you notes could all be placed in a greeting cards organizer so you never again have to go digging around for them. This could also save you some money because you can buy these items on sale during the year and have them on hand when they are needed. Filing them according to the type of card they are will make finding just the right one even easier.
You can take this a step further by organizing greeting cards you'll be sending out over the year's time. Things such as birthday cards, holiday greeting cards, communion invitations, and thank you notes could all be placed in a greeting cards organizer so you never again have to go digging around for them. This could also save you some money because you can buy these items on sale during the year and have them on hand when they are needed. Filing them according to the type of card they are will make finding just the right one even easier.
Home business record keeping
There are lots of systems and opinions about how to maintain good records for your home business. You might want to keep your records on your computer, then print them out when it's necessary.
You also might want to keep a simple cash flow ledger, noting income and expenses. Even this leaves you with a decision about receipts for expenses, though.
You also might want to keep a simple cash flow ledger, noting income and expenses. Even this leaves you with a decision about receipts for expenses, though.
- Manilla envelopes, dated for each month and holding the documentation you need for tax purposes.
- Sturdy plastic or cardboard boxes to house each month's receiptes.
- Filing cabinet and file folders where you sort receipts according to the type of purchase or income.
- Hanging file folders.
- Small, table top dresser drawers, one per month.
- Binder with tabbed index pages and pocket folders.
Sabtu, 05 Januari 2008
Healthful budget minded eating
Just coming out of the holidays, I must admit that I didn't do very well in the area of healthful eating. Too many treats abounded, and sometimes it was simpler to grab a rich cookie than to prepare a nutritious meal. Shame on me. We all know that "a moment on the lips, forever on the hips" applies in these cases.
So far, my clothes are still fitting me just fine, and I don't want to buy a whole new wardrobe of maternity clothes because of my foolish food indulgences. So, I'll be more careful from here on out to eat smaller portions and include a variety of food groups into my daily menus.
In fact, making sure I have written out menus for the week is not only good insurance against poor eating habits, but it's an excellent way to maintain control of the food budget. Keeping an eye on what's already in the pantry and freezer, and building meals around what's already on hand (only shopping for what's needed to fill in the gaps) is a great way to be sure the food budget isn't being abused.
So far, my clothes are still fitting me just fine, and I don't want to buy a whole new wardrobe of maternity clothes because of my foolish food indulgences. So, I'll be more careful from here on out to eat smaller portions and include a variety of food groups into my daily menus.
In fact, making sure I have written out menus for the week is not only good insurance against poor eating habits, but it's an excellent way to maintain control of the food budget. Keeping an eye on what's already in the pantry and freezer, and building meals around what's already on hand (only shopping for what's needed to fill in the gaps) is a great way to be sure the food budget isn't being abused.
Jumat, 04 Januari 2008
Potential tax deductions
In the previous post, I mentioned some of the ways I generate extra income. I'm always looking for more, of course, and will share them with you as I find ones that work out well for me. However, this is the time of year when the tax man calleth, which means we all want to pay less in taxes and keep more of our income. But, we want to do this in the most legal and ethical ways so that we know we are paying our fair share without overpaying.
I don't take a home office deduction because I don't actually have an area of my home that's fully dedicated to business. My rooms are multi-functional for now, though it might be worth it to set aside some space just for that purpose. It's something to think about. I did buy a new desk chair this year, but I won't be able to take it off my taxes as an office furniture deduction because of the reasons mentioned already. However, I may have some other things that can be deducted.
Naturally, I'll be consulting my tax preparer with all these and may learn that there are more things I can actually deduct. I won't file until I have all my records in good order. I want to get it all done soon, but I don't want to rush through it and miss something.
I don't take a home office deduction because I don't actually have an area of my home that's fully dedicated to business. My rooms are multi-functional for now, though it might be worth it to set aside some space just for that purpose. It's something to think about. I did buy a new desk chair this year, but I won't be able to take it off my taxes as an office furniture deduction because of the reasons mentioned already. However, I may have some other things that can be deducted.
- My Toshiba laptop, purchased with the intent and used for blogging, paid blogging, and networking.
- My Lexmark printer, used to print off important business related documents.
- Ink cartridges for the printer.
- Paper for the printer.
- Charitable donations to Habitat for Humanity and Heifer.org.
- Mileage on my car for non-reimbursed trips made for McDonald's.
- Clothing for my job at McDonald's.
- Any fees from PayPal incurred when getting paid for online writing assignments.
- Part of my internet connection via AirCard and previously via dial-up.
- Part of my ISP service before I switched to AT&T wireless.
- Domains and site hosting.
Naturally, I'll be consulting my tax preparer with all these and may learn that there are more things I can actually deduct. I won't file until I have all my records in good order. I want to get it all done soon, but I don't want to rush through it and miss something.
Kamis, 03 Januari 2008
Diversification
Diversification is a term used by investors who don't put all their financial eggs in one basket. This really is a good idea. After all, if one income generator fails, you have others to fall back on. This is what I have done on my own small scale.
- I am purchasing stock in McDonald's through a payroll plan. I spend $20 a month to buy shares. To date, 5.230176 shares of MCD. A dividend of $7.65 has been rolled back into stock purchases. I haven't exactly gotten rich, but then I don't own many shares yet.
- I just signed up for the McDonald's 401K program, having $15 per paycheck deducted for that. They match funds, so I'm hoping that by the time I retire, if I stay with McDonald's, I'll have a little cushion there.
- I signed up for the PayPal Money Market, but it has fluctuated quite a bit over the last months. I only received $1.47 from the fund for December. That's been about the average amount. However, I know that a lot of that depends on how high my PayPal balance is. With holidays, it has dropped to about $100 now, so it's not working to its potential because of my having to dip into it. This is something I'm going to be changing in the new year.
- I have also gotten a PayPal debit card. I get Cash Back Bonuses from it, depending on the type of purchase I make. As long as I choose a Credit Card option, I get the bonus. Not every place gives you that option, so Debit Card purchases actually receive no bonus. However, I have received $4.53 for the month of December from the Cash Back Bonuses, so it's really working out ok. It would work out a lot better if I could figure out how to make Walmart run it as a credit card instead of a debit card. I have some high purchases there, but none have given me a bonus.
- My bank has a points program for debit card purchases. I have two debit cards there for two accounts. I can convert the points to cash, as I indicated in a previous post. However, I waited until after the New Year to do that because I didn't want that added to my 2007 income. I will be checking soon to see just how many points I have accrued and how much money they're worth very soon.
- From all other sources of revenue online, meaning sponsored posts, I have received $681.35, which is pretty decent for a sideline income. Beginning this month, though, I'd like to bring that up to at least $1,000 per month. Doing that would mean a lot more content in my blogs and certainly a lot more work, but it would also mean less dependency on my regular job and possibly a way to gain more freedom.
Selasa, 01 Januari 2008
Happy New Year 2008!
It's the first day of the new year, January 1, 2008. I pray your business and entrepreneurial efforts are mightily blessed as you grow and learn. Look back on the past year and set new goals or reaffirm the old ones and continue them.
Happy New Year 2008!
Happy New Year 2008!
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