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	<title>Financial planning Article</title>
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		<title>Do Your Own Taxes with Online Software</title>
		<link>http://www.thefinancialplanningworld.com/Do-Your-Own-Taxes-with-Online-Software/Article/1497</link>
		<category>Taxes</category>
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		<guid>http://www.thefinancialplanningworld.com/Do-Your-Own-Taxes-with-Online-Software/Article/1497</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Do Your Own Taxes with Online Software&nbsp;by: Jeremy LaDartTaxes are so complicated that it has become a year-round job just to keep up. Everything you do throughout the year has an impact on your taxes. Did you get married? Did you buy/sell a home? ...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[<b>Do Your Own Taxes with Online Software</b><br><p>&nbsp;by: <b>Jeremy LaDart</b><p><p><p><p>Taxes are so complicated that it has become a year-round job just to keep up. Everything you do throughout the year has an impact on your taxes. Did you get married? Did you buy/sell a home? Did you have children? Did you change jobs? Did you put any money into a retirement account? Did you donate to charity? And on?and on?and on.<p><p>Thousands and thousands of laws for Federal filing alone, but in fact State tax codes are often even more cumbersome, and everyone wants to get your business. Tax preparation has become a multi-billion dollar a year business in this country. You have to get all the paperwork together and spend several hours of your time in an office just to pay someone else $100 to $300.<p><p>Luckily, technology has caught on and can save you both time and money. New online and downloadable software has become so advanced that anyone can use it. Yes, ANYONE. <p><p>BENEFITS OF DO IT YOURSELF TAX SOFTWARE<p><p>?	Fast, easy and accurate<p><p>?	Do it from the comfort of your own home<p><p>?	Offers many different options<p><p>?	Very user friendly<p><p>?	Costs 50% to 90% less than going to a local preparer<p><p>?	Most are guaranteed<p><p>HOW TO USE TAX SOFTWARE<p><p>?	Gather up all of the paperwork you would normally bring to a professional<p><p>o	W-2 (from employer)<p><p>o	1099 (shows interest)<p><p>o	Receipts for charitable contributions<p><p>o	Doctors receipts<p><p>o	Etc.<p><p>?	Find a reputable company <p><p>?	Purchase the software (you will have the option of doing it online or downloading software)<p><p>?	Follow the easy step-by-step instructions<p><p>?	Mail-in or e-file your forms<p><p>You are probably thinking it?s too good to be true, but it?s not. It?s actually quit brilliant. The biggest expense for tax preparation companies is overhead (office, office supplies, desks, computers, etc.) and labor. By giving you the power to do your own taxes these companies have virtually cut their costs up to 80% and are passing the savings on to you. Go to <a href="http://www.moneytopics101.com/taxes.html" target=new>http://www.moneytopics101.com/taxes.html</a> to learn more.<p><p><p><p><p><p><table width=100% cellpadding=8 cellspacing=0 border=0 bgcolor=#dddddd><p><tr><td><p><p><b>About The Author</b><br><p><p><p>Jeremy LaDart is an economist working for the U.S. Government. In his spare time he runs <a href="http://MoneyTopics101.com" target=new>MoneyTopics101.com</a>, a comprehensive financial planning website. Go to <a href="http://www.moneytopics101.com/taxes.html" target=new>http://www.moneytopics101.com/taxes.html</a> to learn more about getting a bigger refund this year.<p><p><a href="mailto:info@moneytopics101.com">info@moneytopics101.com</a><p><p><p><p><p></td></tr><p></table>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Commercial Surety Bonds: Getting The Best Rate (Part 1 of 2)</title>
		<link>http://www.thefinancialplanningworld.com/Commercial-Surety-Bonds:-Getting-The-Best-Rate-(Part-1-of-2)/Article/1841</link>
		<category>planning</category>
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		<category>Commercial+Surety+Bonds%3A+Getting+The+Best+Rate+%28Part+1+of+2%29</category>
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		<guid>http://www.thefinancialplanningworld.com/Commercial-Surety-Bonds:-Getting-The-Best-Rate-(Part-1-of-2)/Article/1841</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Commercial Surety Bonds: Getting The Best Rate (Part 1 of 2)&nbsp;by: Michael WeisbrotThere is a great range in rates for commercial surety bonds these days. Principals can see premiums range from 1-15% of the amount of the bond. Even a small bond at ...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[<b>Commercial Surety Bonds: Getting The Best Rate (Part 1 of 2)</b><br><p>&nbsp;by: <b>Michael Weisbrot</b><p><p><p><p>There is a great range in rates for commercial surety bonds these days. Principals can see premiums range from 1-15% of the amount of the bond. Even a small bond at 15% can be extremely costly. In part 1 of 2 of this article, we will review what bonding companies look at when deciding a rate. Part 2 of this article will discuss what you can do to better your situation to make sure you are at the bonding companies lowest tier rating.<p><p>Commercial bond underwriting takes more than just personal credit into consideration. In general, a commercial bond submission must include: a bond application with general information on the principal, business financial statements and or a resume on the owner(s), personal financial statements of the owner(s), personal credit of the owner(s) and possibly their spouse(s), and the bond form that must be used to create the original bond. There are specialty programs available for some classes of business that will require less information. However, these programs are far and few in between.<p><p>A principal must qualify on all surety items named above. A surety can decline a principal if they fail to meet any of the sureties underwriting guidelines. The best way to understand what the surety is looking for is to go through everything one item at a time in detail. Some of the items below can be fixed immediately, others can take years to correct.<p><p>General Bond Application: A bond application will help the surety to determine: the bond amount, who is requiring the bond of the principal (obligee), principal?s contact information, owner(s) contact and personal information, etc. A surety can decline an applicant if they find that any of the information is inaccurate. At times, a surety will not want to write bonds when certain obligees are involved.<p><p>Business Financial Statement: The business financial statement of the applicant is the bloodline of the company and is one of the most critical items reviewed by the surety when applying for a bond. The statement should be done in an orderly fashion. Handwritten <p><p><p><p><p><table width=100% cellpadding=8 cellspacing=0 border=0 bgcolor=#dddddd><p><tr><td><p><p><b>About The Author</b><br><p><p><p>Michael Weisbrot is Vice-President of JW bond Consultants, Inc., a  only agency. Offering surety bonds of all sizes, including, but not limited to: <p><p>Commercial Bonds - mortgage broker bond, money transmitter bond, mortgage banker bond, telemarketing bond, other license and permit bonds, etc.<p><p>We also write all types of contract bonds.<p><p><a href="http://jwsuretybonds.com" target=new>jwsuretybonds.com</a><p><p><a href="mailto:mike@jwsuretybonds.com">mike@jwsuretybonds.com</a><p><p><p><p><p></td></tr><p></table>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Does The Early Bird Get The Worm?</title>
		<link>http://www.thefinancialplanningworld.com/Does-The-Early-Bird-Get-The-Worm%3F/Article/1733</link>
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		<description><![CDATA[Does The Early Bird Get The Worm?&nbsp;by: Ken MorrisWhen people plan and invest for retirement, the decision of when to begin taking Social Security benefits eventually comes up.  Social Security is an important source of retirement income for many ...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[<b>Does The Early Bird Get The Worm?</b><br><p>&nbsp;by: <b>Ken Morris</b><p><p><p><p>When people plan and invest for retirement, the decision of when to begin taking Social Security benefits eventually comes up.  Social Security is an important source of retirement income for many individuals and, therefore, the decision of when to take these benefits can make a big impact on retirement income.<p><p>A retired worker who is fully insured can elect to start receiving benefits at any time between age 62 and 65 (or even later).  Benefits can start as early as 62, but if you so elect they are permanently reduced by 20%.  Here is where the question arises.  Is it better to start taking checks at a reduced amount or wait until Normal Retirement Age and receive full benefits?  Before addressing the inherent problems with this empirical question, let's look at some of the factors and considerations.<p><p>The early bird who decides to get the worm first gets three years' worth of checks -36 payments- that the sleeping bird will never see.  Thus, it will take some time for the total benefits of the person who waits until age 65 to catch up to those of the early collector.  Further, for those born after 1937, Normal Retirement Age is being extended.  Normal Retirement Age is currently age 65, yet due to the Social Security amendments, full benefit age will be raised gradually in two stages until eventually reaching 67 in 2027.  Thus, the early bird will receive even more checks than the retiree who bides his time for full benefits.<p><p>If the early bird also did not need the benefit income and chose to invest instead of spending the checks, the investment income would partially offset the reduced yearly benefit as well as extend the catch-up period for the age 65 collector.  Sounds like most people would opt to be an early bird.<p><p>There are other factors to consider (as always).  Working an extra three years will probably increase the patient retiree's benefits.  This is so because more earnings will be credited toward the Social Security account.  Chances are that old low-earning years will be replaced in the benefit equation with a current high credit year.  These higher benefits will then shrink the catch-up period.  <p><p>Delaying retirement benefits beyond 65 until age 70 will also increase the size of the benefit due to a credit provided by the Social Security Administration for such patience.  Further, for those born after 1937 who choose to begin receiving benefits at age 62, the reduction-in-benefits penalty is further stiffened from 20% to an eventual 30% in 2022.  The hare will feel the tortoise closing even quicker.<p><p>Taxation of benefits may also enter the picture.  Poor timing of Social Security and other income may result in a good portion of early benefits being subject to inclusion in income and painfully taxed.  On the other hand, a lower age 62 benefit may mean that the taxpayer will not meet the "combined income" threshold for benefits inclusion.<p><p>Empirical studies have been done which generally arrive at the same conclusion.  Early bird collectors are ahead of the game for about 12 to 15 years and then are left behind the higher benefit collector.  Thus, where a person is in good health and foresees another 10 + years of retirement life, it is probably better to defer taking benefits until normal retirement age.<p><p>Of course, a universal rule for when to take benefits is impractical.  Depending upon an individual's circumstances, it might make more sense to begin taking benefits as soon as possible regardless of the net economic benefit in the future.  This brief article is no substitute for a careful consideration of your unique personal situation.  Before making any significant retirement planning or tax strategy, consult your financial planner, attorney or tax advisor, as appropriate.<p><p><p><p><p><p><table width=100% cellpadding=8 cellspacing=0 border=0 bgcolor=#dddddd><p><tr><td><p><p><b>About The Author</b><br><p><p><p>Ken Morris, a fee based Investment Advisor Representative with Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., helps 401k participants get the most out of their corporate plans.  <p><p><a href="http://raymondjames.com" target=new>raymondjames.com</a><p><p><a href="mailto:lindsay.brickner@raymondjames.com">lindsay.brickner@raymondjames.com</a><p><p><p><p><p></td></tr><p></table>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>How Do I Build A Winning Business Plan? Part 1</title>
		<link>http://www.thefinancialplanningworld.com/How-Do-I-Build-A-Winning-Business-Plan%3F-Part-1/Article/1875</link>
		<category>Financial</category>
		<category>1</category>
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		<category>How+Do+I+Build+A+Winning+Business+Plan%3F+Part+1</category>
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		<guid>http://www.thefinancialplanningworld.com/How-Do-I-Build-A-Winning-Business-Plan%3F-Part-1/Article/1875</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[How Do I Build A Winning Business Plan? Part 1&nbsp;by: Neil BestUsing sample business plans and their structure, along with studying as many business plan examples as you can, will provide you with the necessary framework to consider your business from ...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[<b>How Do I Build A Winning Business Plan? Part 1</b><br><p>&nbsp;by: <b>Neil Best</b><p><p><p><p>Using sample business plans and their structure, along with studying as many business plan examples as you can, will provide you with the necessary framework to consider your business from every possible angle.<p><p>Starting or running your business without a business plan is akin to being a human without a skeleton!<p><p>Not only will using a sample structure highlight any areas you haven't fully thought through, but it will also provide you with a good idea of what makes a good business plan, and what doesn't. <p><p>The importance of your business plan as a motivational factor in running or starting your business cannot be underestimated. You will find that your commitment continues to build as you collect information, research and write each section. <p><p>Your business plan should always accompany requests for Small Business Loans , and lenders or any kind of angel investor will simply refuse to consider your business proposal without one. <p><p>Lenders and investors want to see your plan with the aim of satisfying key questions before they make their decision to grant funding or not. <p><p>Once you?ve commenced trading your small business plan will act as a steak in the ground, and help you measure where you expected to be against where you actually are. It will help you take corrective action as necessary.<p><p>Sample Business Plan Structure<p><p>All plans should include at least the elements listed below, and perhaps additional sections depending on the type of industry. <p><p>Executive Summary <p><p>Company Background <p><p>Products or Service Overview <p><p>Unique Selling Proposition and competitive advantages <p><p>The Marketplace <p><p>Operations <p><p>Leadership and management profiles including professional competencies <p><p>Professional Support <p><p>Risks and Threats assessment <p><p>Financial forecasts including key assumptions <p><p>Relevant appendices <p><p>Collecting the information for all the sections is time consuming and sometimes difficult. The business section of your local library is always a good place to start research. Ask your friendly librarian about how to look up market research reports, and how to investigate competitors. <p><p>If you are not familiar with spreadsheet software, constructing the necessary financial forecasts represents a significant hurdle. You have 2 choices: <p><p>Pay someone to put part or all of the plan together for you, or a small investment in some business planning software. <p><p>The advantage of using a professional is you will receive the benefits of their experience, combined with a professional looking plan. <p><p>The disadvantage is that it won?t be easy to make changes, and more importantly, because you will not have been as involved in its preparation, you won?t be as familiar with its contents as you should be. Make sure to learn the contents well. <p><p>One final tip though, remember it?s the quality of the information you put into it that determines what comes out.<p><p><p><p><p><table width=100% cellpadding=8 cellspacing=0 border=0 bgcolor=#dddddd><p><tr><td><p><p><b>About The Author</b><br><p><p><p>Neil Best has over 15 years experience in business finance. For successfully funded sample business plans, tips and advice, visit <a href="http://www.smallbusinessfinancetips.com" target=new>http://www.smallbusinessfinancetips.com</a>.<p><p><p><p><p></td></tr><p></table>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Budgeting For The Future</title>
		<link>http://www.thefinancialplanningworld.com/Budgeting-For-The-Future/Article/2102</link>
		<category>Financial+planning</category>
		<category>For</category>
		<category>Budgeting+For+The+Future</category>
		<category>Budgeting</category>
		<category>The</category>
		<category>planning</category>
		<guid>http://www.thefinancialplanningworld.com/Budgeting-For-The-Future/Article/2102</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Budgeting For The Future&nbsp;by: Jennifer ClasonHave you sat down and really thought about your financial future? I know people are busy these days and you think "well I'm young now and I'll have time to do it later." You're dead wrong. You are NEVER ...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[<b>Budgeting For The Future</b><br><p>&nbsp;by: <b>Jennifer Clason</b><p><p><p><p>Have you sat down and really thought about your financial future? I know people are busy these days and you think "well I'm young now and I'll have time to do it later." You're dead wrong. You are NEVER too young to start saving for retirement!<p><p>They say if a 25 year old puts in $2.00 a day into a savings account ($60.00 a month), buy the time he reaches 65 he'll have a million dollars. However, what is a million dollars these days - really? It's practically chump change with rising housing and cost of living expenses.<p><p>So you have to make a budget to save for the future. Don't expect Social Security to kick in, they're having problems already - much less when you get to be that age!<p><p>Here are some strategies to help you save for the future and your retirement:<p><p>1. Make a list of your monthly income. Include everything from your wages to gambling winnings, child support receive, alimony, and any other income you get every month.<p><p>2. Then make a list of your expenses. List everything you spend from your utilities to your cell phone bill. Also your child's violin lessons, pet expenses - everything.<p><p>3. Subtract your expenses from your income. Hopefully you are coming out ahead! If not, then you need to make smart decisions on which expenses are a necessity or a luxury. Do you really need a cell phone, or is it just convenient? Discipline yourself now and you'll thank yourself later!<p><p>4. Do this for several months. And then at the end of each month, figure out where your money went that was unnecessary. Did you go out to eat more than once a week? Did you buy your lunch instead of making a sandwich from home?<p><p>5. Put 10% of your income into a savings plan. This is the "rule of thumb" amongst investors on just how much you should be saving a month. If you make $3000/mo. then you should be saving $300. Pay yourself first!<p><p>6. Consider other options besides savings. Perhaps invest in a 401k or an IRA savings plan. Check with your banker to see which one would suit your needs and financial situation the best.<p><p>Really that's all there is to it! Never take money out of your savings for frivilous purchases like a new pair of shoes or to go to a movie. That is for your future! However if your car needs a new transmission, this nest egg is there for you!<p><p>It just takes a lot of self-discipline and the desire to want to have financial independence. Just apply these easy techniques and you'll be on your way!<p><p><p><p><p><table width=100% cellpadding=8 cellspacing=0 border=0 bgcolor=#dddddd><p><tr><td><p><p><b>About The Author</b><br><p><p><p>Jennifer Clason is the site owner and operator of <a href="http://www.mommyjobs.com" target=new>http://www.mommyjobs.com</a>. She has been running a full-time home-based Internet business for 7+ years now and owns more than 10 different Internet Sales websites. <p><p><a href="mailto:webmaster@mommyjobs.com">webmaster@mommyjobs.com</a><p><p><p><p><p></td></tr><p></table>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Family Finance</title>
		<link>http://www.thefinancialplanningworld.com/Family-Finance/Article/2250</link>
		<category>planning</category>
		<category>Financial+planning</category>
		<category>Financial</category>
		<category>Family</category>
		<category>Family+Finance</category>
		<category>Finance</category>
		<guid>http://www.thefinancialplanningworld.com/Family-Finance/Article/2250</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Family Finance&nbsp;by: Joseph KennyOne of the hardest things that young couples report during their first year of marriage is getting to grips with joint finances. While most are willing to share what they have with their partner, they are not sure ...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[<b>Family Finance</b><br><p>&nbsp;by: <b>Joseph Kenny</b><p><p><p><p>One of the hardest things that young couples report during their first year of marriage is getting to grips with joint finances. While most are willing to share what they have with their partner, they are not sure on the best way to bring this sharing into effect so that they can share with their new partner, but at the same time maintain financial security and a degree of independence. Some couples resolve this by resorting to separate finances and others find a way to keep things together, but it is generally reported as one of the biggest strains on newly married couples.<p><p>As well as this, there is also the problem that many people find it difficult to budget and control their finances. It is one thing to fail to keep track of expenditures when you are single, but when you are married you have more to answer to than just yourself. This is especially true once you have children. If one partner fails to keep control of their spending while the other is forced to worry about finances, it can create an enormous strain on the relationship. <p><p>Family Budget<p><p>One of the best answers to this dilemma is to create a family budget. This should outline what is allowed for the various expenses, which is to be responsible for what expenses and how much each partner can spend on discretionary expenses. While this may seem like a drastic response that takes away all the responsibility and financial independence from both partners, all it is really doing is getting both parties to sit down together beforehand and work out how much they can afford to spend on what, and then sticking to this. It is about being in control of your expenses rather than letting them have control over you.<p><p>Other ways of taking care of difficulties between married couples is to divide out the family expenses depending on how much each partner earns. This way both will feel responsible for the security of the family and will feel like they are an important contributor to the family finances. <p><p>Financial Matters<p><p>While each partner should have a degree of financial freedom, and also privacy, finances should be discussed openly and with without shame. Past debts or mistakes that one party has made should be put in the past and should be forgotten. At the same time, if one partner shows that they are unable stick to the budgets they have agreed, their financial freedom will have to be taken from them and they should be given a tight leash in financial matters.<p><p><p><p><p><table width=100% cellpadding=8 cellspacing=0 border=0 bgcolor=#dddddd><p><tr><td><p><p><b>About The Author</b><br><p><p><p>Joseph Kenny is the webmaster of the UK credit card comparison site <a href="http://www.creditcards121.com/" target=new>http://www.creditcards121.com/</a>, where you can find a selection of credit card articles. He also writes for the comparison site <a href="http://www.cardguide.co.uk" target=new>http://www.cardguide.co.uk</a> which offers some best credit cards in the UK.<p><p><p><p><p></td></tr><p></table>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>How Low Interest Credit Cards Work</title>
		<link>http://www.thefinancialplanningworld.com/How-Low-Interest-Credit-Cards-Work/Article/1536</link>
		<category>Credit</category>
		<category>Financial</category>
		<category>Cards</category>
		<category>How+Low+Interest+Credit+Cards+Work</category>
		<category>Low</category>
		<category>Financial+planning</category>
		<guid>http://www.thefinancialplanningworld.com/How-Low-Interest-Credit-Cards-Work/Article/1536</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[How Low Interest Credit Cards Work&nbsp;by: Drew HansonLow Interest credit cards are exactly what their name suggests. They charge low rates of interest (APR). The APR is calculated in the same way as with other credit cards; this facilitates an easy ...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[<b>How Low Interest Credit Cards Work</b><br><p>&nbsp;by: <b>Drew Hanson</b><p><p><p><p>Low Interest credit cards are exactly what their name suggests. They charge low rates of interest (APR). The APR is calculated in the same way as with other credit cards; this facilitates an easy comparison for an individual who is planning to switch over to these cards. Low interest credit cards are favored by individuals who habitually carry their monthly credit card balance forward. Low interest rates can lead to significant savings on financial charges.<p><p>For the introductory period, most low interest credit cards offer 0% APR; however, most credit cards offer 0% APR only for select situations such as balance transfers and major purchases. The introductory period offer can be used for consolidating multiple credit cards that charge high rates into a single low APR credit card. This helps people to reduce the financial charges associated with credit card debts and pay off the existing balances quickly. Often, low interest rate credit card companies will waive the balance transfer fee upon a client?s request. Thus, low interest rate cards with rates that can be up to 9 percentage points lower than those of other cards are a great way of saving for those inveterate shoppers who invariably end up with a monthly balance on their credit cards. It is also less taxing to take a cash advance with low interest credit cards. Individuals with poor credit scores may find themselves ineligible for low interest credit cards. <p><p>Low interest credit cards may or may not offer other advantages like cash back and travel insurance and should therefore be used with another card that does. This helps a card user to earn benefits from the other card which he may use when he does not intend to keep a balance; for other purchases, the low interest credit card can be used. It is advisable that the oldest extant credit card account that an individual has should not be closed for acquiring a low rate credit card; this is because maintaining credit accounts for long periods reflects well on the credit ratings. <p><p>There are several low interest credit cards available in the market. Individuals should do a thorough research to find a card that offers a perfect fit for their needs.<p><p><p><p><p><p><table width=100% cellpadding=8 cellspacing=0 border=0 bgcolor=#dddddd><p><tr><td><p><p><b>About The Author</b><br><p><p><p>Drew Hanson recommends that you visit <a href="http://www.creditcardsearchengine.com" target=new>http://www.creditcardsearchengine.com</a> for more information on low interest credit cards.<p><p><a href="mailto:drewhanso@gmail.com">drewhanso@gmail.com</a><p><p><p><p><p></td></tr><p></table>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Plan To Succeed In Your Business</title>
		<link>http://www.thefinancialplanningworld.com/Plan-To-Succeed-In-Your-Business/Article/1646</link>
		<category>Business</category>
		<category>Financial</category>
		<category>Plan+To+Succeed+In+Your+Business</category>
		<category>Plan</category>
		<category>Succeed</category>
		<category>Your</category>
		<guid>http://www.thefinancialplanningworld.com/Plan-To-Succeed-In-Your-Business/Article/1646</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Plan To Succeed In Your Business&nbsp;by: Jennifer GivlerWe?ve all heard the saying: If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. But I like to think of it another way. Ask yourself, ?am I planning to succeed??In business, it?s important to follow a plan ...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[<b>Plan To Succeed In Your Business</b><br><p>&nbsp;by: <b>Jennifer Givler</b><p><p><p><p>We?ve all heard the saying: If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. But I like to think of it another way. Ask yourself, ?am I planning to succeed??<p><p>In business, it?s important to follow a plan. It?s important to have a plan for your year, each week, and each day. Otherwise, you?re being reactive in your business instead of being proactive. When you?re proactive, you control your business ? it doesn?t control you.<p><p>Here are three easy-to-follow tips to creating and following a successful plan:<p><p>1. Start with the end in mind. Set a deadline for your goal. Write the completion of your goal on the deadline date in your calendar. Then, work backward by putting tasks in your calendar each day or each week. For example, if you want to send out a mailing this spring, choose the date that you want the mailing to go out. Then, work backward to create a to-do list each week. If you wanted to send your mailing out on April 1, you would write, ?edit mailing? on March 31, and  ?finish creating mailing? on March 30 and so on. Do this for each goal that you have. Before you know it, you?ll have weekly, and even daily plans laid out.<p><p>2. Spend time each day planning. Take 15 minutes every day to create a plan. If you follow the example above, you?ll have a broad plan to follow. However, life is full of opportunities, and you don?t want to miss out on anything. Life is also full of things you don?t plan on ? like having to get the hot water heater fixed. You?ll need to spend some time planning to include unexpected things into your day. It?s ok to change your plan, move things around, and re-arrange your schedule. It happens, and it?s ok to shift your plan to make room for the unexpected things.<p><p>3. Put strong activities on your to-do list. There are actually certain things that you don?t need to include in your to-do list. The little things. The things that will get done no matter what. For example, don?t put ?mail the bills? on your to-do list. Keep your priorities on your to-do list. Put incidentals or non-essential tasks on sticky notes. Once they?re done, throw the note away. Also, don?t put little things on your to-do list just for the satisfaction of having something to cross off.<p><p>Planning to succeed doesn?t have to be intimidating or overwhelming. Simply set your goals and follow these three tips. Before you know it, the road to success will be laid out right in front of you.<p><p>Remember ? any good plan needs to be put into action. It?s not enough to simply write words on paper. You must go forward and create your results.<p><p>Copyright 2006 Jennifer Givler<p><p><p><p><p><table width=100% cellpadding=8 cellspacing=0 border=0 bgcolor=#dddddd><p><tr><td><p><p><b>About The Author</b><br><p><p><p>Jenn Givler is a Business Empowerment Coach who teaches entrepreneurs how to create a Powerful Business. Get her free e-book Be Empowered! <a href="http://www.jgivlercoaching.com/newsletter.htm" target=new>http://www.jgivlercoaching.com/newsletter.htm</a>.<p><p><p><p><p></td></tr><p></table>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Finding the Right Debt Consolidation Advice</title>
		<link>http://www.thefinancialplanningworld.com/Finding-the-Right-Debt-Consolidation-Advice/Article/1675</link>
		<category>Consolidation</category>
		<category>planning</category>
		<category>Financial+planning</category>
		<category>Financial</category>
		<category>Debt</category>
		<category>the</category>
		<guid>http://www.thefinancialplanningworld.com/Finding-the-Right-Debt-Consolidation-Advice/Article/1675</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Finding the Right Debt Consolidation Advice&nbsp;by: Angela RogersIf you are in debt and finding it difficult to pay your bills then one of the best sources of debt consolidation advice is a credit counseling company. A credit counseling company can ...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[<b>Finding the Right Debt Consolidation Advice</b><br><p>&nbsp;by: <b>Angela Rogers</b><p><p><p><p>If you are in debt and finding it difficult to pay your bills then one of the best sources of debt consolidation advice is a credit counseling company. A credit counseling company can offer you debt consolidation advice including how to use credit wisely, help you establish a workable budget, keep track of your bills and manage your money. A trained and certified debt consolidation advice specialist can, if appropriate for your situation, arrange a repayment plan with your creditors and place you on the track to financial security.<p><p>Once you have selected a reputable consolidation advice agency, you will be asked to provide information about your income, expenses and debts. The counselor then evaluate the information and discuss your situation with you before making recommendations and offering the most appropriate debt consolidation advice for your situation to help you address your financial problems. Some useful pieces of debt consolidation advice may be participation in an educational class, enrolling in a debt-management/repayment plan. However, the debt consolidation advice may extend to areas other than financial which include referral to another organization, such as a relationship counseling or state employment agency for assistance. After all, the debt consolidation advice service understands that there are many underlying factors that led to your financial difficulties and that these also have an impact on other areas of your life.<p><p>You need to spend some time researching your options and take extra care to select a reputable debt consolidation advice agency. Most importantly you should be able to find a debt consolidation advice agency that has satisfied clients, offers personalized service from trained counselors, can educate you how to make appropriate financial choices and will provide you with the tools you need to achieve financial security.<p><p>Don't be tempted to think that just because a debt consolidation advice company has a big advertising campaign means it is the best. Quite often the only reason that a debt consolidation advice service has placed large and numerous adverts in various forms of media it is because they have not got enough clients! You would also be wise to ignore telephone calls or e-mails that arrive out of the blue from debt consolidation advice companies offering their services. The best debt consolidation advice services will often rely on past clients for referrals; they do not need to solicit business through constant television advertising, infomercials and telemarketing or spam e-mails.<p><p>Find the Right Debt Consolidation Advice here - <a href="http://www.debt-helper.info/debt-consolidation-advice.html" target=new>http://www.debt-helper.info/debt-consolidation-advice.html</a><p><p><p><p><p><table width=100% cellpadding=8 cellspacing=0 border=0 bgcolor=#dddddd><p><tr><td><p><p><b>About The Author</b><br><p><p><p>Angela Rogers is the editor for <a href="http://www.debt-helper.info" target=new>http://www.debt-helper.info</a> - Take a view on some realities about non-profit debt consolidation agencies - <a href="http://www.debt-helper.info/non-profit-debt-consolidation.html" target=new>http://www.debt-helper.info/non-profit-debt-consolidation.html</a>.<p><p><p><p><p></td></tr><p></table>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>UK Consumers Start Clawing Their Way Out Of The Financial Debt Pit</title>
		<link>http://www.thefinancialplanningworld.com/UK-Consumers-Start-Clawing-Their-Way-Out-Of-The-Financial-Debt-Pit/Article/1867</link>
		<category>Financial+planning</category>
		<category>UK</category>
		<category>UK+Consumers+Start+Clawing+Their+Way+Out+Of+The+Financial+Debt+Pit</category>
		<category>Way</category>
		<category>Consumers</category>
		<category>Their</category>
		<guid>http://www.thefinancialplanningworld.com/UK-Consumers-Start-Clawing-Their-Way-Out-Of-The-Financial-Debt-Pit/Article/1867</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[UK Consumers Start Clawing Their Way Out Of The Financial Debt Pit&nbsp;by: Michael HannaAnother year ended, and another round of UK debt statistics.  CreditAction has just announced the latest summing up of the personal debt situation in the UK.  Their ...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[<b>UK Consumers Start Clawing Their Way Out Of The Financial Debt Pit</b><br><p>&nbsp;by: <b>Michael Hanna</b><p><p><p><p>Another year ended, and another round of UK debt statistics.  CreditAction has just announced the latest summing up of the personal debt situation in the UK.  <p><p>Their figures show that the end of 2005 has seen the total level of personal debt rise to an astounding ?1,158bn, an increase of ?100bn compared with the same time last year, and this debt is increasing at a rate of ?1m every 4 minutes.<p><p>These levels of debt affect everyone in the country, and have become a way of life.  The average household debt is ?46,863 including mortgages or ?7,786 including overdrafts, finance deals, credit cards and unsecured loans, but excluding mortgages.<p><p>To break this down further; CreditAction report that the average UK adult owes ?4,125 excluding secured loans, or ?24,833 including mortgage loans.   <p><p>The Financial Services Authority (FSA) are seeing distressing signs from struggling consumers, as the rates of insolvencies, late credit card payments and mortgage repossession orders are all increasing.  The Citizens Advice Bureau and Consumer Credit Counselling Service have both received record numbers of people calling their debt advisory services after finding they were struggling to pay back what they owe, with 9,310 calls taken during the first nine working days of 2006.  One in 10 single people are reported by CreditAction as saying their finances are out of control, and according to a leading mental health expert, Dr Roger Henderson, 43% of the adult population in the UK are affected by money worries with 10.76m people suffering relationship problems because of their money worries.<p><p>The surge in those contacting the debt services for help has been put down as a positive effect by the National Debtline, as they have attributed it to an increase in public awareness on financial matters and a knowledge that help is available rather than a jump in the general debt levels.<p><p>The growth in consumer financial information in newspapers, television and websites like Moneynet (<a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk" target=new>www.moneynet.co.uk</a>) and The Motley Fool (<a href="http://www.fool.co.uk" target=new>www.fool.co.uk</a>) has helped to raise the public awareness on many financial issues.  Consumers can now find guides on financial services and can even quickly compare loans, credit cards, mortgages, insurance and other finance products on a like for like basis to obtain the best rates for services.  This is making it more difficult for expensive finance providers to find customers, but as consumers become more finance savvy; many providers are seeking to protect their profits through alternative methods.   Many credit card providers have started introducing charges for consumers changing credit card companies in an effort to reduce the threat that ?rate tarts? pose to their profits.  The credit card and financial services are also cracking down on those who make late repayments, breach overdraft limits or try to repay their debts earlier than previously agreed.  <p><p>The general pattern however from the most recent data from the Bank of England looks to be that the appetite for debt among consumers appears to be waning, and greater attention is being paid by consumers to their own personal finances.  The fact that 2005 saw nearly one in twenty consumers racking up ?100+ in financial penalties and charges making up ?553m of unnecessary financial wastage going to the lenders, means that there is some way still to go if UK consumers are to regain control of the spiraling debt crisis.<p><p>Disclaimer:<p><p>All information contained in this article, is for general information purposes only and should not be construed as advice under the Financial Services Act 1986. <p><p>You are strongly advised to take appropriate professional and legal advice before entering into any binding contracts.<p><p>Useful resources:<p><p>Moneynet comparisons ( <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk" target=new>http://www.moneynet.co.uk</a> )<p><p>The Motley Fool (<a href="http://www.fool.co.uk" target=new>www.fool.co.uk</a>)<p><p><p><p><p><p><table width=100% cellpadding=8 cellspacing=0 border=0 bgcolor=#dddddd><p><tr><td><p><p><b>About The Author</b><br><p><p><p>Michael Hanna is a keen writer, and internet marketer living in Scotland:<p><p>Contact details:<p><br>E-mail: <a href="mailto:samqam@googlemail.com">samqam@googlemail.com</a> <p><br>Phone: 0131 561 2251<p><br>Michael's Website: <a href="http://www.gransha-taxi.co.uk" target=new>http://www.gransha-taxi.co.uk</a><p><p><p><p><p></td></tr><p></table>]]></content:encoded>
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