Financially Confident Christian

To err is human, but to err on your tax return can be a complete disaster. If you did your own taxes, of course, you may have only yourself to blame. But if you think your tax preparer made a mistake on your return, there are steps to take. On today’s show, Ralph discusses what you can do if your tax preparer botches your tax return filing. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a consultation with Ralph, contact him at 302-659-6560 or go to www.askralph.com for more information!Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Tax day is dreaded by millions of Americans, and some people have such a hard time coming to grips with filing for taxes that they file extensions to prolong the inevitable. April 17th is the deadline for most taxpayers to file an extension and to pay any taxes owed to avoid penalty and interest charges. On today’s show, Ralph discusses how to file an extension before it is too late. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a consultation with Ralph, contact him at 302-659-6560 or go to www.askralph.com for more information!Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

The discussions surrounding Social Security filing seems to always center around when to file and how best to strategize your claims; however, many do not know the actual process to file when you decide to file. On today’s show, Ralph outlines the entire process for filing for Social Security benefits and gives tips for navigating the filing procedures. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a consultation with Ralph, contact him at 302-659-6560 or go to www.askralph.com for more information!Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Selling an investment can have tax consequences. To figure out whether you need to report a gain or can claim a loss-after selling, you need to know the cost basis for that investment. On today’s show, Ralph outlines everything you need to know when computing your cost basis this tax season. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a consultation with Ralph, contact him at 302-659-6560 or go to www.askralph.com for more information!Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Every direct employee of a company receives a W-2 form in January. The W-2 is the base document that defines your tax obligations, so it is important that you review and understand yours. On today’s show, Ralph reviews how to review your W2 form and update your withholding status each paycheck. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a consultation with Ralph, contact him at 302-659-6560 or go to www.askralph.com for more information!Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

On today’s show, Ralph review some of the most common penalties associated with IRS filings as we come closer to the end of filing season on April 17th. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a consultation with Ralph, contact him at 302-659-6560 or go to www.askralph.com for more information!Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

When it comes to saving for retirement, most American workers are not only falling short, they don not even know how behind they are. What is more disturbing, research shows that savings trends are getting worse, despite a decades-long push to enroll workers in 401(k)s and other employer plans. On today's show, Ralph tackles why more Americans are not saving for their retirement. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a consultation with Ralph, contact him at 302-659-6560 or go to www.askralph.com for more information!Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Congratulations! You have just been handed your first little bundle of joy in the are about to embark on the long journey of parenthood. It will be full of joyful experiences that make the corresponding aggravations worthwhile, and it comes with many benefits — some of which are tax-related. On today's show, Ralph outlines the benefits of parenthood from a tax filing standpoint. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a consultation with Ralph, contact him at 302-659-6560 or go to www.askralph.com for more information!Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

The Federal tax reform passed in December has created changes to the tax rate and bracket structure, with an elimination of personal exemptions and certain itemized deductions. The changes were implemented for 2018, and will affect filing in spring 2019. That does not mean it is too early to start thinking about what this means for taxpayers. On today's show, Ralph reviews the various changes and effects to deductions set to take effect in the coming filing seasons. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a consultation with Ralph, contact him at 302-659-6560 or go to www.askralph.com for more information!Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

On today's show, Ralph discusses 15 relevant and burning tax season questions to get the answers to before April 17th. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a consultation with Ralph, contact him at 302-659-6560 or go to www.askralph.com for more information!Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

In your rush to file your taxes this year, do not forget to watch out for fraudulent tax preparers. Crooked tax preparers will lure you with the promise of big refunds and easy fixes. Beware that you will be on the hook to pay more money when the IRS catches on to the fact that your return is botched. On today's show, Ralph discusses signs to help you spot a fraudulent tax preparer and keep yourself safe. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a consultation with Ralph, contact him at 302-659-6560 or go to www.askralph.com for more information!Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Paying taxes is painful enough. We understand why forking over even more of your hard-earned money to pay someone to prepare your tax return would seem out of the question? If your tax situation is straightforward, a professional preparer is not needed. But for some taxpayers, it is worth spending the money to get professional help. On today's show, Ralph outlines signs for knowing when to hire a tax expert. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a consultation with Ralph, contact him at 302-659-6560 or go to www.askralph.com for more information! Read the full article by Wendy Connick at https://www.fool.com/taxes/2018/02/04/4-signs-you-shouldnt-do-your-own-tax-return.aspx Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

If you’re a small business owner, Tax Day (April 17th) has a wholly different connotation than it does for most of America. While most working Americans, are excitedly anticipating the receipt of a big refund check, small business owners dread the annual scramble to gather their K1s, compile deductions, and sort through receipts. On today's show, Ralph reviews five things small business owner should do to get ready for the filing deadline. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a consultation with Ralph, contact him at 302-659-6560 or go to www.askralph.com for more information! Read the full article by Alex Chriss at https://www.inc.com/alex-chriss/tax-countdown-5-things-small-business-owners-must-do-before-april-17.html Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

If you think your tax work is done once you file your return, think again. Now you need to file your tax records. Keeping your tax returns and the documents you used to complete them obviously is critical in case you are ever audited. Good record-keeping also could help if you need to file an amended return because you discovered a mistake or learned of a tax break you should have claimed. On today's show, Ralph reviews how long you need to keep tax records. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a consultation with Ralph, contact him at 302-659-6560 or go to www.askralph.com for more information!Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Check out this Saturday's radio broadcast at 8:00AM on WILM 1450 (https://wilm.iheart.com/) in Wilmington, WDOV 1410 (https://wdov.iheart.com/) in Dover and live on iHeart Radio. On this week's show, Ralph speaks about how long you should keep tax documents, lays out four reasons you shouldn't do your own taxes and lists out must-dos for small business owners before April 17th. Subscribe to our Podcast for more content! You can also like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or email us at [email protected]. Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

An IRS tax audit stands out as one of those events in life that people typically want to avoid. No one wants to sit through a meeting with the IRS and be told that they owe more money in taxes. However, you may be making mistakes when you file taxes that will inevitably lead to the singling out your return for scrutiny. On today's show, Ralph outlines everything you need to avoid when filing your return that could lead to an audit. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a consultation with Ralph, contact him at 302-659-6560 or go to www.askralph.com for more information!Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

As many of us file and complete our returns this tax season, keep in mind that the changes as a result of tax reform largely go into effect next year, when you're filing your 2018 tax return in 2019. What you will see this year are changes to your paycheck — since the IRS has updated the income withholding tables to reflect the changes in the tax bill. This also means that every employee should review the new 2018 IRS W-4 form released recently and update as needed to make sure you are withholding the right amount under the new legislation. On today's show, Ralph reviews the changes to the most recent version of the IRS W-4 form and outlines how to do a "paycheck checkup" to make sure you are not blindsided next filing season. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a consultation with Ralph, contact him at 302-659-6560 or go to www.askralph.com for more information! For more information and to download the new 2018 IRS W-4 form, visit https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fw4.pdf. To complete the IRS withholding calculator visit https://apps.irs.gov/app/withholdingcalculator/ Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

It’s that time of the year again. The time when Tax Day is fast approaching and you start hearing conflicting things from friends and family about what is—and what is not—okay when filing your taxes. There is a lot of misinformation out there about various deductions, loopholes, and write-offs that can get you into trouble. On today's show, Ralph discusses some common uninformed and false tax tips to save you from ending up on the IRS' radar. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a consultation with Ralph, contact him at 302-659-6560 or go to www.askralph.com for more information! Read Tina Orem's article entitled, " 5 Pieces of Popular Tax Advice That Are Actually Baloney" originally posted on NerdWallet on February 22, 2017 (https://www.nerdwallet.com/blog/taxes/bad-tax-advice/) for more information.Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Nearly 62 million people rely on Social Security benefits each month, making it arguably America's most important social program. Of these beneficiaries, more than three out of five are reliant on the program to provide at least half of their monthly income. Yet for as important as Social Security is for the nation's retired workforce, knowledge surrounding Social Security is lacking. On today's show, Ralph discusses social security and when is the best time to claim. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a consultation with Ralph, contact him at 302-659-6560 or go to www.askralph.com for more information!Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

The recent tax overhaul is taking away some tax breaks and keeping many others. Some deductions will only be available for the 2017 tax year, while others-although available, might not be worth using anymore after this year due to the significant increase in the standard deduction, which will make itemizing unnecessary for many millions of taxpayers. On today's show, Ralph overviews the most commonly missed tax deductions by self-filers and even some paid-preparers. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a consultation with Ralph, contact him at 302-659-6560 or go to www.askralph.com for more information!Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

The U.S. tax code is nearly 4 million words. That is a lot of complicated tax jargon. However, even though the rules are complex, most of the mistakes taxpayers make on their returns are fairly simple. Read on to see if your making one of these 10 common mistakes on your tax return. On today's show, Ralph review the top five common mistakes made when filing your tax returns. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a consultation with Ralph, contact him at 302-659-6560 or go to www.askralph.com for more information!Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Identity theft is a crime that is estimated to affect over 9 million Americans per year, with levels on the rise. When an identity thief gets his (or her) hands on your personal information, they gain the power to wreak havoc on your finances, credit and reputation. The bad news is that you cannot protect yourself 100% from identity theft. The good news is you can greatly reduce your risk by acting quickly when your personal information has been compromised. On today's show, Ralph reviews 12 steps to keep your identity safe! Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a new business consultation with Ralph, contact him at 302-659-6560 or go to www.askralph.com for more information!Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Though the majority of Americans wind up getting a refund on their taxes, there are also those who end up owing money to the IRS once their returns are completed. If you are staring at a tax bill you know you ca not pay, do not panic. On today's show, Ralph discusses tax payment options like "offer in compromise" and installment plans for making that tax debt more manageable. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. Need tax advice specific to you? To schedule a consultation with Ralph, contact him at 302-659-6560 or go to www.askralph.com for more information!Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

On today's show, Ralph speaks about common financial mistakes professional women make and tips for making the best financial decisions. Let us be clear: Not all women make these mistakes. Not all men avoid them. But common questions posed to Ralph's firm and other fields denote that there are a few female financial problem areas that can lead to major debt and lots of stress. The Ask Ralph team wants to keep you informed and in the know to make the best decisions possible. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a new consultation with Ralph, contact him at 302-659-6560 or go to www.askralph.com for more information!Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Deep inside the incredibly large 654-page bipartisan budget bill recently signed into law by Congress are little-noticed extensions of key tax-code benefits that expired in 2016, but now can be used for upcoming 2017 tax filings. If you have already filed your tax returns, you may want to take a listen and file an amended return to ensure you did not leave anything on the table. On today's show, Ralph reviews all of the changes to the tax code that are relevant to this current 2017 tax filing season and going forward. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a new business consultation with Ralph, contact him at 302-659-6560 or go to www.askralph.com for more information!Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

At the Ask Ralph podcast, we can tell a lot about what is on our listeners' minds by looking into the mailbag, and it is no surprise right now that the big topic is taxes. The W-2s are rolling in, people are beginning to anticipate their tax refunds, and they are also beginning to stress about the process for getting them filed. On today's show, Ralph continues answering all your tax questions in part three of our mail bag series! Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a new business consultation with Ralph, contact him at 302-659-6560 or go to www.askralph.com for more information!Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

QuickBooks Online is becoming a staple for the small business owner seeking to manage their accounting and bookkeeping. It can easily cater to the needs of small businesses and as well as major enterprises. Small companies find that its interface is easy to master, bank accounts sync automatically to a single dashboard and allows users to view and generate reports with a single click. On today's show, Ralph sits down with Mike Potter of Intuit to discuss their newest accounting and financial management software for business, QuickBooks Online. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. For more information about QuickBooks Online and other products offered by Intuit, visit https://quickbooks.intuit.com/online/ . You can try it for free for 30 days!Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Taking a look at your 1099s/W2s and realizing you will need more time to file your taxes this year? Confused whether or not you are in a new bracket after Congress passed the new tax law? We’re here to help. To find out what people’s most burning questions about taxes are, we have asked listeners to submit their tax questions directly to the Ask Ralph team in time for filing season. On today's show, Ralph answers all your tax questions in part two of our mail bag series! Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a new business consultation with Ralph, contact him at 302-659-6560 or go to www.askralph.com for more information!Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Taxes can be confusing. We’re here to help. To find out what people’s most burning questions about taxes are, we have asked listeners to submit their tax questions directly to the Ask Ralph team in time for filing season. On today's show, Ralph answers all your questions from our listeners mail bag in part one of our listener question series! Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a new business consultation with Ralph, contact him at 302-659-6560 or go to www.askralph.com for more information!Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Much like the digital camera in the field of photography, technology is changing dentistry as we know it, bringing immediacy, flexibility, and efficiency to dental practices. Furthermore with new technology, practices are experiencing greater productivity, better communications with patients, and a more satisfied staff. On today's show, Ralph speaks with Dr. Puja Balchandani of Christiana Pleasant Dental to talk about her customer-focused and technology-based business model and how it sets her practice apart from competitors. For more information about Dr. Balchandani and Christiana Pleasant Dental, visit website at https://www.christianapleasantdental.com or give them a call to schedule a consultation at (302) 738-366. Christiana Pleasant Dental is located at 72 Omega Drive, Bldg D, Newark, DE, 19713Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Though a majority of people are interested in running their own businesses, many have no idea how to begin. For a lot of people, the advice pro-startup leaders is to just “jump in, make mistakes, and learn”. Although appreciated, this advice does not provide enough specifics on how to start and what those mistakes made will cost. On today's show, Ralph examines the best steps to take when starting your own business to ensure a solid foundation for the future. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. To schedule a new business consultation with Ralph, contact him at 302-659-6560 or go to www.askralph.com for more information!Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Each year, the vast majority of taxpayers receive some sort of refund upon filing their tax returns, and 2018 will probably be no exception. With the fear of government shutdown looming, widespread tax fraud and identity theft on the rise there are more reasons to file early than not if you expect a refund. On today's show, Ralph discusses the reasons for why filing early this year may be to your benefit. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information.Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Why is operating with integrity so vital for a business today? With the rise of technology, comes the rise of greater transparency and need for businesses to operate with honesty. Businesses failing to be transparent in their dealings with the public, or those that do not deliver on their promises to customers and clients, can find themselves ostracized with poor internet reviews and dried up market. On today’s show, Ralph sits down with owner of Stay True Plumbing to talk about his journey to owning his business and why it is important to "Stay True" to your values. For more information on Stay True Plumbing, give them a call at (302-464-1198) or visit their website at http://staytrueplumbing.com. Like them on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/staytrueplumbing Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information.Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Owning property is a big part of the American dream for many taxpayers, and it seems the federal government is trying to reward such behavior. The U.S. tax code allows rental property owners take advantage of deductions not available to others. In fact, being able to take advantage of so many tax deductions is often what makes owning rental property a lucrative venture. On today’s show, Ralph discusses common tax deductions available to rental property owners. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information.Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Tax preparation software is preventing more taxpayers from making mistakes on their annual tax returns. Unfortunately, just one entry error on your computer could end up costing you — in the form of a larger tax bill or a smaller refund. On today’s show, Ralph highlights common mistakes made by self-filers during tax season so you can be on alert. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information.Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Branding, promotions, products, pricing, advertising, research and social media -- all of this is marketing. With all the marketing options out there, it can be difficult for small businesses to know what to do. Pair that with product development, bringing to market and you have just hit the trio of small business stressors. On today's show, Ralph sits down with Brooke Beers of The Horse Holster to discuss how she invented, developed, and utilizes social media to grow her business in today's market. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Follow Brooke and The Horse Holster on Instagram (@the_horse_holster) and Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/thehorseholster/) Visit their website for more information at https://thehorseholster.com. Click here to find a dealer near you!Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

A good plan means being ready for any life event — marriage, children and even death. For many couples, estate planning can be a very stressful and overall unpleasant task. Planning for tragedy can sometimes feel like testing fate. Nevertheless, estate planning is vitally important for families, ecspcially given the recent tax code overhaul that went into effect in 2018. On today's show, Ralph discusses marital estate planning so you can make sure everything is in order and your family is protected. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information.Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Many individuals who are looking for fast cash to pay outstanding holiday bills, unexpected car repairs and skyrocketing heating bills are being bombarded with advertising pitches for tax refund advances. Although expected to grow in popularity, the prefund refund option should be approached with suspicion and caution of the costs. On today's show, Ralph outlines the growth of tax refund advances and gives tips on what you need to know before taking one this tax season. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information.Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

To avoid working all of your life and dreaming about retirement only to be disappointed when it arrives, you need to do more than just monitor the balance in your 401(k) plan. Taking time to check up on how your retirement savings are progressing and make sure you are still on track, or even better, adjust so you can improve your outlook. On today's show, Ralph discusses tips for keeping your 401(k) and other retirement savings healthy so you can stay happy. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information.Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

A small business checkup is similar to getting your car serviced. Often times we get caught up in the commute–the back and forth–and we do not take proper time to check under the hood and make sure everything is running properly. For small business owners, a regular checkup can prove vital in helping a business continue to grow and hit their goals. On today's show, Ralph discusses tips for small business owners going into the 2018 tax year to make sure your business stays in good shape. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information.Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Every year, you get poked and prodded by your doctor to make sure you stay healthy. You should take similar care of your financial well-being with an annual checkup of essentials, such as your credit situation, retirement savings and life insurance. No needles or ice-cold stethoscopes required. On today's show, Ralph reviews personal debt and strategies to make the best out of your financial situation with our first episode of our annual check-up series. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information.Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

The New Year is a great time to overhaul your life for the better, and one excellent place to start is by making solid financial resolutions that can help get you closer to your money goals, whether it means increasing your retirement savings or setting funds aside for a down payment on a house. On today's show, Ralph lists some new year's resolutions to make and better your financial picture this year. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information.Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Tax season is rapidly approaching and it is important to do your homework before your the season begins. Getting organized early can save you hours of hassles when it comes time to do your taxes or hand them over to your accountant. On today's show, Ralph discusses ten steps to take to get ready for tax preparation. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information.Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

If you are a fan of setting individual goals for the new year, you must make sure not to forget about your business. Take the opportunity to examine your company’s financial health and look for ways to make improvements. On today's show, Ralph reviews resolutions to make for your business to help it stay in shape in 2018. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information.Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Paying an expert to prepare your taxes is simple and makes a lot of sense, but finding the right person to prepare your taxes can be difficult. It is important to make sure you thoroughly understand your preparer's competence and experience so that you aren't leaving money on the table. On today's shows, Ralph discusses how to find the best and most qualified tax preparer this tax season. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information.Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Most Americans will get a tax cut this year under the plan Congress passed recently, but figuring out exactly how much your family will save is tricky. In fact, for many families circumstances can vary widely depending on factors like income, the number of children or where you live. On today's show, Ralph takes a look at how 8 different families will be affected by the newly passed tax bill set to take effect in the coming tax years. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. Link to Article: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2017-12-20/how-the-tax-bill-will-affect-eight-american-families Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

With tax season just around the corner, now is the time to start thinking about not just when you will file your taxes, but how. In fact, you may be looking at hiring a professional to file your return on your behalf -- and if so, you wouldn't be alone. On today's show, Ralph reviews questions to ask when selecting a tax preparer this season. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information.Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Originally aired on Saturday, December 30th, 2017 on WILM 1450 in Wilmington and WDOV 1410 in Dover, Delaware. On today's show Ralph talks tax preparer dos and don'ts, questions to ask when choosing someone this tax season, and outlines how 8 different American families will be affected by the new tax reform bill. If you have any questions or ideas for future shows, please email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. Advertisers: For more information on Haass Family Butcher Shop, give them a call at (302) 734-5447 or visit their store at 3997 Hazlettville Road in Dover (https://www.haassmeats.com/). For more information on Sawyer Sanitation, give them a call at (302) 678-8240 and mention "Ask Ralph" to receive $5.00 off your service. For more information on Saggio Accounting+Plus, visit www.saggioaccounting.com or give them a call at (302) 659-6560 to schedule a consultation today.Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Cash flow is a key indicator of financial health and the life-blood of any small business. Equally important to having a solid cash flow is the relationship a small business has with its community. If you are running your business well, chances are your most avid supporters are the people buying your product or service, thus keeping your cash flow manageable. On today's show, Ralph speaks with Ron Price, founder of Blue Earl Brewing Company in Delaware about the importance of managing cash flow and building strong local relationships when growing your business. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. Check out Blue Earl Brewing Company in Smyrna at 210 Artisan Drive, Smyrna DE 19977 for a tour or stop by the taproom "The Juke" and enjoy fine craft beers, delicious eats and amazing live entertainment. Visit their website for more information (https://www.blueearlbrewing.com/).Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Moving expense deduction suspended, changes in employee fringe benefits, and all new tax brackets for individuals under the newly passed tax overhaul from Congress set to take effect starting in 2018 for many taxpayers. Lots of people asked us how the new law would affect them. On today's show, Ralph outlines more of the changes in the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act of 2018 and what it means for your returns going into the new year. Submit your tax questions and Ralph will answer them on an upcoming show! Tweet us at @askralphmedia, send us a message on Facebook or email us at [email protected]. Visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information. Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming