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  • Top 10 Reward Credit Cards to Opt for

    Top 10 Reward Credit Cards to Opt for

    Top 10 Reward Credit Cards to Opt for

    Credit cards that offer rewards can take many shapes, making it a tad bit difficult to weigh them against each other. Since they offer different earning rates and reward types, along with assorted rules for earnings and redemptions, selecting the most beneficial card can be quite complex. Not opting for a top-notch rewards credit card could mean losing out on potential perks and monetary benefits. We present to you our top 10 picks for the best reward credit cards.

    CHASE SAPPHIRE PREFERRED CARD
    The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card offers an unusual combination of high rewards rates and redemption flexibility, making it ideal for those who often spend on travel and dining while charging a reasonable yearly fee. The card is also renowned for its substantial sign-up bonus, flexible redemption choices, and travel benefits.

    PROS & CONS OF A SAPPHIRE PREFERRED CARD
    Pros
    Generous rewards in multiple spending areas.
    Several travel and shopping protections.
    Cons
    Yearly fee.
    No initial APR offer.

    AMERICAN EXPRESS PLATINUM CARD
    Frequent travelers who enjoy their luxe comforts must consider the American Express Platinum Card. It provides premium travel benefits, access to airport lounges, and various rewards, including Membership Rewards points.

    PROS & CONS OF A AMERICAN EXPRESS PLATINUM CARD
    Pros
    Beneficial bonus categories
    Transfer partners
    Luxurious perks
    Cons
    Steep annual fee of $695
    Complex reward system
    Requires good/excellent credit

    CAPITAL ONE VENTURE REWARDS CREDIT CARD
    The Capital One Venture Card, one of the top-tier travel cards, offers 2 – 5 miles per $1 spent on purchases and an initial bonus of 75,000 miles for spending $4,000 in the first 3 months. Its multitude of extras and straightforward rewards structure, potentially earning users miles on every single purchase, places it in fierce competition with other high-end credit cards.

    Cons
    Lack of domestic airline and hotel travel partners.
    Lack of hotel status benefits.

    CITI PREMIER CARD
    The Citi Premier Card proves to be a robust travel credit card, primarily if you’re looking for rewards on non-travel purchases. The card provides 3X points on air travel and hotels and on other popular categories like restaurants, supermarkets, and gas stations.

    DISCOVER IT CASH BACK
    The Discover It Cash Back card ideally caters to moderate spenders who don’t mind activating the 5% rotating categories and tracking the spending cap quarterly. This no-annual-fee card can usher in significant rewards in addition to its 1% constant earning rate.

    BANK OF AMERICA PREMIUM REWARDS CREDIT CARD
    Frequent travelers who value flexibility in their credit card rewards should take note of the Bank of America Premium Rewards credit card, especially if they’re existing Bank of America customers with significant account balances. The card provides a reliable rewards program, credits for airline incidental fees, and travel benefits.

    WELLS FARGO ACTIVE CASH CARD
    The Wells Fargo Active Cash card offers a consistent 2% cash reward rate on purchases without charging an annual fee, thus battling alongside the best flat-rate cash back cards.

    HILTON HONORS AMERICAN EXPRESS SURPASS CARD
    The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card suits those who regularly patronize Hilton hotels by offering plentiful points on Hilton purchases and supplementary benefits.

    CHASE FREEDOM UNLIMITED
    The Chase Freedom Unlimited touts a straightforward cash-back program with a flat rate on every purchase and no yearly fee. Its useful bonus categories, versatile rewards, and outstanding introductory offer place it high among cash-back cards.

    SOUTHWEST RAPID REWARDS PREMIER CREDIT CARD
    The Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card is an excellent choice for those who fly with Southwest airlines frequently. It offers perks such as bonus points and anniversary bonuses.

    Sustaining Responsibility
    Before applying for any credit card, it is vital to evaluate your spending patterns, travel predilections, and financial objectives to understand which card aligns best with your requirements. Additionally, keep in mind that credit card terms, conditions, and reward structures might have been updated, so always verify the details on the credit card issuer’s website.
    Adapted from SmartAsset.com

  • Cautionary Measures and Considerations for Peer-to-Peer Lending

    Cautionary Measures and Considerations for Peer-to-Peer Lending

    Cautionary Measures and Considerations for Peer-to-Peer Lending

    Peer-to-peer (P2P) lending is currently gaining considerable attention. Two major P2P lenders in America include Prosper and LendingClub. Let’s understand how they operate: Borrowers post their loan request publicly, and lenders chip in to provide the funds. The borrower receives the full amount once it’s completely funded, after which they follow a set repayment plan every month, including paying the interest and any penalty for late payments.

    What sets P2P lending apart is the impressive rate of return. It outperforms many conventional investment sources. I’ve already set up my account on LendingClub, put aside a decent amount of money, and thoroughly researched in preparation for my first loans on the platform. Throughout this process, I realized some crucial insights, which could be considered “best practices” for novice lenders.

    DIVERSIFICATION IS CRITICAL
    When involved in P2P lending, the risk of losing money as a lender is relatively higher compared to bank-guaranteed investments like CDs or bonds. One effective risk management strategy is diversifying your loan portfolio.

    Before deciding to finance a loan, you must scrutinize the borrower’s profile – factors like employment history, credit rating, and public records. Loans involving higher-risk applicants offer higher returns but also carry a significant default risk. However, both LendingClub and Prosper transparently provide data, allowing you to examine the default rate for each credit grade before offering a loan.

    Some lenders have noticed robust returns while financing borrowers with poor credit scores. However, these loans are still new, and there are some early late payment indications alluding to potential future defaults. Other more conservative lenders prefer sticking to applicants with excellent or good credit ratings. Although the returns are less, these still substantially beat CD interest rates, generally by threefold.

    From my observations of other investors’ strategies, the effective approach is to finance multiple similar loans, each with amounts as low as $25. This strategy shields you from major losses unless a large number of loans default. Reduce this risk even further by financing an assortment of credit grades, with a particular focus on excellent and good ones.

    KEEP YOUR MONEY ACTIVE
    After setting up my LendingClub account, my agenda is to keep my money active. As soon as the borrowers repay their loans, I want to reinvest those amounts to continuously earn interest – I don’t want to keep any idle cash in my account.

    I’m both excited and a bit nervous about this venture. My general habit is to spend any saved money imprudently. However, once invested via LendingClub, my money will be used wisely at last.

    Are you interested in P2P lending? Then, you might find our LendingClub review informative.

  • Pros and Cons of HELOC versus Home Equity Loan

    Pros and Cons of HELOC versus Home Equity Loan

    Pros and Cons of HELOC versus Home Equity Loan

    A Home Equity Line of Credit, better known by its acronym, HELOC, is a financial tool that allows homeowners to leverage the equity built up in their property to obtain a line of credit. This is essentially a second mortgage, with the first mortgage recognized as the initial lien on the property. Ever found yourself weighing up the pros and cons of a HELOC and a home equity loan?

    Much like a HELOC, a home equity loan permits homeowners to borrow a set amount of money, once again using the equity of their homes as collateral. Each of these methods permits you to draw from your home equity, however, they differ in certain ways, each with its respective advantages and drawbacks.

    This article aims to juxtapose a home equity loan and a HELOC, examining the advantages and disadvantages so you can identify which better aligns with your individual requirements.

    HOME EQUITY LINE OF CREDIT (HELOC)
    Advantages:
    A HELOC operates akin to a credit card giving you a credit line which you can draw from, repay, and draw from again, offering flexibility for sustained expenses or projects.
    HELOCs often entail lower setup costs than home equity loans, which makes them cost-efficient to establish.
    Interest rates of a HELOC are variable and can therefore decrease over time, reducing your expenditure.
    A HELOC allows you to draw funds whenever required throughout an extended period, up to a prescribed credit limit.
    Interest on a HELOC may often be tax-deductible, contingent on the use of the funds and prevailing tax laws.
    Disadvantages:
    While variable interest rates can work favorably, they might result in higher interest costs if rates escalate.
    The revolving nature of HELOCs can lead to debt accumulation if not wisely managed.
    Failing to settle your HELOC debts puts your property at risk.

    HOME EQUITY LOAN
    Advantages:
    Home equity loans offer fixed interest rates, making your monthly payments static and predictable.
    You receive a one-time consolidated sum of money, advantageous for specific expenses or debt consolidation.
    Home equity loans provide a fixed repayment schedule, enhancing budgeting and repayment planning.

    Disadvantages:
    Rising interest rates can increase your payment.
    Failing to settle your home equity loan puts your property at risk.

    Steps to Obtain a HELOC and a Home Equity Loan
    The journey to secure a home equity loan or a HELOC includes the application process, conforming to credit prerequisites, handling closing costs, and meeting appraisal requirements.

    1. Review your financials: Identify your home’s current market value and calculate your equity. Make a decision about the amount you wish to borrow.

    2. Research lenders: Compare the offerings of various lenders. Get recommendations from trustworthy sources.

    3. Application process: Know your equity. Understand your credit score and Debt-to-income ratio as these affect your application.

    4. Property appraisal: Lenders may require an appraisal to verify your home’s current market value.

    5. Credit requirements: Pull your credit report and aim to have a score of 620 or higher for a home equity loan.

    6. Closing costs: Be prepared to handle closing costs which include application fee, title search, attorney fees among other costs.

    7. Final stages: If your application is approved, you will receive loan terms which you need to review and agree to.

    FINAL THOUGHTS
    The final choice between a HELOC and a home equity loan depends on your financial aspirations and individual preferences. Just remember, using your home as collateral carries inherent risks, and failure to maintain repayments could lead to foreclosure. Be smart about your choices.

  • Could clearXchange Possibly Challenge PayPal’s Dominance?

    Could clearXchange Possibly Challenge PayPal’s Dominance?

    Could clearXchange Possibly Challenge PayPal's Dominance?

    PayPal currently dominates the sphere of person-to-person (P2P) transactions, being the primary platform people use to send money to their friends and family. However, the process can often be cumbersome, involving logging into PayPal, authorizing it to draw money from your bank to your PayPal account, and then sending it to the recipient, who must also log into PayPal and subsequently transfer that money to their bank account. This process can be time-consuming, often taking over a week to complete.

    In response to the growing demand for a simpler P2P method, some well-known banks like Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase, and Wells Fargo are developing clearXchange. This system would allow you to transfer money directly from your account to someone else’s by just inputting the recipient’s name, phone number, or email address. Nevertheless, the fees imposed for transactions will depend entirely on the individual banks. Therefore, when assessing if a participating bank’s fees are worth it, the cost should be compared with any transaction fee charged by PayPal.

    At present, clearXchange is in the experimental phase; once it is launched nationwide, it will only be usable if both users have accounts at banks participating in clearXchange. The system thus has limitations until more than three major banks join the initiative.

    There are already operational alternatives for P2P payments. For instance, Popmoney, which allows you to transfer money using a phone number or email address. To use Popmoney, you either need to have a bank account that cooperates with them or create a Popmoney account. The fees charged by Popmoney depend on the speed required for the funds to be transferred. If you’re sending a large sum of money, Popmoney might be a more cost-effective option than PayPal.

    Additionally, Visa is planning to offer P2P payment options as part of its digital wallet, which is anticipated to launch in the fall. This e-wallet would allow individuals to make payments using their phones in several ways, thus eliminating the need to carry physical credit or debit cards. Even Google is working on a similar project and plans to launch its Wallet soon, although its initial use will be limited to those who hold a Citibank-issued MasterCard with PayPass, and the Wallet presently doesn’t support P2P transactions.

    In conclusion, with the advancement in digital technology, there are numerous new payment options on the horizon that aim to make the process of sending and receiving money more streamlined and convenient.

    (Information provided by SmartAsset.com)

  • The Advantages and Disadvantages of Remote Workspaces

    The Advantages and Disadvantages of Remote Workspaces

    The Advantages and Disadvantages of Remote Workspaces

    Virtual Offices: For those unfamiliar with the term, it encompasses a myriad of functions, primarily ones related to communication and address services. While no two virtual office packages are exactly alike, the common thread is that they do not typically serve as physical workspaces with few exceptions. This article will explore the advantages and disadvantages of virtual offices, and introduce alternative options such as topofficefitoutsmelbourne.com.au which provide numerous office-related solutions.

    One significant advantage of a virtual office is its communication service. It typically includes a human receptionist to efficiently direct phone calls and perhaps manage your voicemails. Equally beneficial is the business address service that lends your business a reputable and prestigious image rather than revealing a less impressive home address. Although this is not your actual working space, there are opportunities to rent meeting rooms in that building on an hourly basis. Bear in mind, virtual offices are highly adaptable, so a bit of research will be required to find the best fit for your needs.

    The business address service, as mentioned earlier, directs all mailing communications to your business address. Further services like letter directing may also be included. Some virtual offices provide extensive communication management within the parameters usually associated with call centers and brand management specialists.

    In summary, this model greatly benefits certain professionals or small businesses. Although the P.O. Box typically provided may not suit all companies, it could provide an excellent stepping stone for new businesses. But are there alternative models?

    Yes, alternatively, physical offices shared by independent professionals and corporations are also a viable option. Shared office spaces are popular among small businesses and independent professionals seeking high-quality spaces that they may not be able to afford alone. They are frequently managed by independent firms, acting as caretakers for their clients. These shared spaces often impress with their high-quality furnishings, spotless interior maintained by dedicated staff, excellent internet and infrastructure, and even provision of services such as keeping the coffee pot filled.

    Deciding between Virtual Office and Shared Co-working Space, independent professionals and small businesses should be able to elevate their professional standards even if full-scale accommodations are beyond their financial reach. These services have helped numerous successful companies and careers take flight. So, if you’re willing to take that leap, research the opportunities available locally and observe the impact it has on your business growth and productivity.

  • Struggling with Poor Credit? Consider these Forgiving Bank Accounts

    Struggling with Poor Credit? Consider these Forgiving Bank Accounts

    Struggling with Poor Credit? Consider these Forgiving Bank Accounts

    Navigating essential financial services like credit cards and checking accounts can become problematic if you possess a poor credit history. Nevertheless, as the number of individuals with bad credit and bankruptcy filings increase, numerous banks have started creating provision for these demographics. If your credit rating is low, here’s a roundup of a few banks that might be willing to overlook your prior mishaps and offer you a second opportunity:

    National Banks

    1. Wells-Fargo: Their ‘Opportunity Package’ encapsulates a checking account and up to three additional services. State-wise package specifics may fluctuate, but typically a $10 monthly fee is required for accounts with a balance less than a daily average minimum of $1,000 or without a qualifying monthly direct deposit.

    2. WoodForest National Bank: Despite being relatively pricier, you can open a second chance checking account with this bank. For accounts with monthly direct deposits, the maintenance fee is $7.95 per month, while for those without, the charge is $9.95. An initial setup cost of $9 is also applicable.

    3. First American Bank: Providing a ‘Fresh Start’ checking account at a monthly fee of $9.95, it necessitates a $50 deposit upon opening. However, post this, no minimum account balance is demanded.

    4. Central Bank: They propose a ‘Clean Start’ checking account, the details of which are not easily accessible online. The service incurs a monthly fee of $8 and a minimum balance requirement. Exact specifications need to be determined directly from the bank.

    5. Liberty Savings Bank: This bank grants a ‘Clean Slate’ checking account, devoid of a minimum balance prerequisite. After maintaining a non-sufficient funds (NSF) free account for 12 months, you can transition from a ‘Clean Slate’ to a regular checking account. Unfortunately, the monthly fee for this account is not openly advertised on their website.

    Local Banks

    Several smaller local banks also allow the opening of second-chance checking accounts. The website Second Chance Checking Accounts curates a state-wise list of banks offering this service. For non-US residents, related local services are also available. Positive home loans, for instance, is an excellent option for Australians.

    An Essential Evocative Precaution:

    If your checking account has a track record of non-sufficient funds (NSF), it likely caught the attention of ChexSystem. Prior to opening a new account, ensure to clear all such dues to maintain a clean record. Even though your name will still appear on ChexSystem, a clean status reflecting all debts paid could ease the account opening process.

    A large number of banks are wary to permit individuals with prior case of mismanagement to hold accounts. However, there are select national and several local banks willing to give them another chance. Following the opening of your new account, ensure to maintain it in good standing to eventually qualify for checking accounts with lesser monthly fees.

  • Review of Aurora Bank

    Review of Aurora Bank

    Review of Aurora Bank

    In this era of low-interest rates and uncertainty in the banking sector, many customers are on the hunt for fresh opportunities. Aurora Bank stands out as one option worth considering. Actively seeking new depositors, the bank boasts rather competitive returns on its accounts. If a high-yield account for your emergency savings is what you’re after, Aurora Bank might be the fit for you.

    THE BACKGROUND OF AURORA BANK
    Some individuals might be skeptical about Aurora Bank due to its ownership by Lehman Brothers. It should be noted that the bank is slated to be sold by the bankruptcy-stricken company by 2012, a move which may bring about changes in policy once new management steps in. However, it’s important not to let the bank’s current ownership deter you. This financial institution is FDIC insured, ensuring the safety of your money, even in the event of a bank failure.

    It’s also worth pointing out that Aurora Bank has been in business since 1921 when it was established as the Delaware Savings And Loan Association. Despite changes in ownership and challenging periods, the bank continues to flourish, earning a four-star rating from Bankrate.com.

    WHAT AURORA BANK HAS TO OFFER
    Among the appealing accounts offered by Aurora Bank is its savings account, along with the option of a money market account. These accounts can be linked with others for overdraft protection, and come with an ATM card for easy access. Interest rates are competitive, compounded daily, and interest earnings are posted to your account monthly.

    However, prospective customers should note that Aurora Bank does impose minimums on its accounts, with potential fees if the average daily balance falls below the minimum. Regular savings accounts require a minimum of $500, while money market accounts need a minimum of $1,000. These accounts are geared more towards long-term emergency savings, not for frequent withdrawals.

    It’s essential to understand that interest will not accrue in the money market account unless the minimum requirement is met. Moreover, inactivity in the account for three years will result in a monthly charge. As such, regular deposits are a necessary part of the upkeep.

    Furthermore, Aurora Bank provides CDs with competitive returns.

    IN SUMMARY
    While Aurora Bank might not be the top bank out there, it does offer competitive rates along with ATM access. Your money is secure with Aurora Bank. That said, it is still advisable to explore other options before opening an account.

  • 5 Easy Methods to Disconnect and Reenergize

    5 Easy Methods to Disconnect and Reenergize

    5 Easy Methods to Disconnect and Reenergize

    If your year has been as hectic as mine, then undoubtedly your mind and body might be feeling the strain of a relentlessly busy schedule. You may find yourself describing your state as stressed, weary, burnt out, run-down, or just plain shattered in response to, “How are you?”

    There’s a limit to how much you can push yourself before it begins to take a severe toll on your overall health and mental condition. For long-term efficiency and productivity, it’s crucial to give your brain frequent restful intervals. Lack of rest could potentially hinder your ability to learn swiftly, think creatively, and muster the energy for your daily obligations.

    To help you unwind, your body and mind recharge efficiently, here are some straightforward and practical suggestions that set you up for future victories and hurdles that life might throw your way.

    1. SHORT SOLO RETREAT
    Set aside a few hours or perhaps an entire day, purposefully to invest some quality time alone and refocus on yourself. Mini-retreats offer the chance to separate from worldly distractions and resonate with your inner self without external influence. Be it indulging in professional spa treatment, meditating, or relishing a quiet moment at home, allocating time for yourself is beneficial and essential.

    2. PRIORITIZE SLEEP
    Sleep is one thing we often overlook despite being one of our most critical needs. Aim for a consistent bedtime and wake-up routine, thus ensuring your body receives ample rest overnight. Opting for a short power nap ranging 15 minutes to an hour once in a day can also help your body rejuvenate when possible.

    3. GO FOR A STROLL
    Walking is an excellent strategy for decluttering your mind from life’s incessant demands. Substitute music with nature’s melody, breathe in the fresh air, and take in the splendor of your environment. Walking serves as healthy physical exercise and gives mental peace. Observing serene sunrise or sunset views can immediately provide a sense of perspective.

    4. ENJOY YOUR FAVORITE BEVERAGE
    One of my personal methods to decompress is relaxing with a steaming cup of my cherished tea. Be it tea, coffee, or a glass of wine, allow yourself to immerse in every sip’s aroma. This simple action can effectively distract your mind from a swirl of thoughts and help you appreciate life’s simple joys.

    5. LEISURE ACTIVITIES
    Watching a movie at home or in a theater allows your mind to take a break from routine life and venture into an extraordinary universe. Select a feel-good, humorous, or enlightening film and either watch alone or bring along a loved one. Other options could involve board games, video games, crossword puzzles, or Sudoku, based on your preference.

    In order to consistently fulfill our commitments, we must take time for ourselves regularly. So, feel free to utilize the mentioned suggestions and come up with your own “unplug and recharge” routine. I’m curious—how do you relax and power up when you’re overwhelmed, exhausted, or beleaguered?

  • Latest Smartphone Boasts a Battery Life of up to 15 Days

    Latest Smartphone Boasts a Battery Life of up to 15 Days

    Latest Smartphone Boasts a Battery Life of up to 15 Days

  • Steps to Generate Income as a Seller on Fiverr

    Steps to Generate Income as a Seller on Fiverr

    Steps to Generate Income as a Seller on Fiverr

    If you’re looking to make money via the internet, then offering valuable services to others is a great way to go. Websites like Fiverr allow people to monetize their skills and abilities by helping others. Fiverr is a known hub for affordable services, starting at just $5. However, it’s more than just a bargain shop – as a Fiverr seller, there’s a potential for substantial earnings as well.

    UNDERSTANDING FIVERR

    Fiverr is primarily an online marketplace where one can purchase services, also known as ‘gigs’. These services address a wide range of needs. If you need tech support, content creation, graphics, video editing, marketing, social media promotion, greetings cards, relationship advice, or even a funny video featuring a cat, you’ll find it on Fiverr.

    People worldwide create seller accounts on Fiverr with the aim of earning extra income. Basic gigs cost $5, but this covers only the most rudimentary services. If clients require additional features or a faster turnaround, they typically pay more. Therefore, it’s not uncommon for sellers to charge $20 or $40 for gig enhancements.

    For instance, one seller charges differently based on the intricacy of SEO keyword research required. Similarly, another seller provides professional Amazon product listings and descriptions, offering valuable extras like revisions and expedited delivery for a higher price.

    As a Fiverr seller, while you can attract clients with a basic service for just $5, you can also offer add-ons at a higher rate, allowing you to improve your income.

    CHOOSING YOUR SERVICES

    In order to maximize your income on Fiverr, you’ll need to consider which services are likely to be most profitable. The key advice here is to focus on what you excel at, and translate that into a Fiverr service. Technological skills like graphic design and programming are especially in demand, despite the competition. In essence, marketplace saturation can even open doors, as top sellers are often oversubscribed and unable to accept new work, leaving room for newcomers like you.

    However, while a unique or specialized offering might sound appealing, it may not attract many sales if it’s not widely sought after. Some marketable services include graphic design, computer programming, writing and editing, social media marketing, or video creation and editing.

    Regardless of what you choose to offer, earning as a Fiverr seller is completely feasible and here’s how you can make your mark.

    STANDING OUT AND BOOSTING EARNINGS

    Standing out on Fiverr can significantly boost your business and, consequently, your revenues. Here are some tips:

    – Deliver top-notch work: Providing excellent end products and ensuring a positive buyer experience can make you a favored seller.

    – Garner 5-star reviews: Stellar reviews can boost your rank in your niche. Quick responses and a readiness to revise work can help achieve this.

    – Optimise your gig description: Use relevant keywords and quickly convey what makes you unique. Don’t shy away from underscoring your experience and what sets you apart. Good visuals and work examples can also increase trust and attract buyers.

    IS FIVERR THE RIGHT CHOICE?

    Given the potential to earn as a Fiverr seller, it’s certainly worth exploring – especially if you have a valuable service to offer and a broad client base. To increase your earnings, focus on optimizing your gig descriptions and providing exemplary service to earn positive reviews and build your rating.
    Have you ever considered earning as a Fiverr seller? What type of service would you like to offer?