At a Glance When your credit card gets declined, it could be due to an error during processing or other issues. Common reasons for declined transactions include incorrect information, maxed-out credit limits, expired cards, input errors, holds placed by companies, exposure to threats, or suspicious …
At a Glance: The National Interest Exception (NIE) is an exemption to the COVID-19 travel bans that allow non-citizens entry into the U.S. for reasons of national interest. Applicants must prove that their travel is of national interest to be granted the exception. The NIE is considered on a case-by…
At a Glance Locating your Social Security Number (SSN) requires confirmation that you have one, as not everyone does. Check your SSN card, issued upon application, or annual statements from the Social Security Administration. Examine tax documents, employment records, and bank statements for your SS…
At a Glance: A cashier’s check is a guaranteed form of payment issued by a bank, commonly used for big purchases to minimize the risk of a bounced check. When requesting a cashier’s check, the bank verifies that you have the funds available and then withdraws the amount from your account…
At a Glance: The Federal Income Tax is a tax withheld by the IRS from your paycheck, applying to various forms of income such as employment and capital gains. It helps fund government programs and infrastructure. Reasons for not paying federal income tax include earning below the threshold, being ex…
At a Glance: When buying a used car, asking questions is crucial to make an informed decision. Knowing the car’s history report, availability of records, accident history, functioning features, previous owners, reason for selling, price justification, inspection possibility, and title availabi…
At a Glance: Graduate school can be expensive, with medical degrees averaging $200,000 at private colleges and $128,000 at public universities. Law degrees cost around $45,000 per year, and an MBA averages $150,000. It’s crucial to assess the costs and benefits before deciding. To finance grad…
At a Glance Legal ways to lower taxable income include saving for retirement through tax-deductible contributions. Investing in tax-exempt bonds and utilizing flexible spending plans offered by employers are effective strategies. Business deductions can be claimed if self-employed, and making charit…
At a Glance Yes, you can trade in a financed car. The trade-in process involves receiving money for your car and can cover the outstanding loan amount. Determine your equity, the difference between your car’s value and the loan balance. Various options exist for dealing with negative equity, s…
At a Glance Adjust your W-4 form for accurate tax withholding. Contribute to a 401(k) or IRA to reduce taxable income. Maximize tax credits and deductions for additional savings. Consider strategies like charitable contributions and timing purchases. Paying taxes is one of the most unpleasant things…