Financially Confident Christian

Standard deductions doubled, mortgage interest and SALT caps, and a phase-out of itemization are just a few of the big changes for taxpayers in 2018. If you are struggling to figure out exactly how the tax overhaul will affect you, you've come to right place. On today's show, Ralph gives is an overview of the new provisions and what it means for your returns in 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]. Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Women are opening up new small business at a faster pace than men according to recent reports. But many still face higher hurdles for success than their male counterparts. On today's show, Ralph sits down with Hope Lopez of El Azteca Mexican Restaurants in Dover to discuss what it takes to successfully run a small business and the unique challenges female entrepreneurs face in today's economy. 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 El Azteca Mexican Restaurant in Dover at 859 N. Dupont Highway, Dover DE 19901 or their newest location in Rehoboth at 20672 Coastal Hwy, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971. Visit their website for more information (http://www.aztecadelaware.com). Link to Federal Reserve Report: https://www.newyorkfed.org/medialibrary/media/smallbusiness/2016/SBCS-Report-WomenOwnedFirms-2016.pdf Mentioned in this episode:Post roll for Book Becoming

Originally aired on Saturday, December 23rd, 2017 on WILM 1450 in Wilmington and WDOV 1410 in Dover, Delaware. On today's show Ralph discusses the most recent tax code overhaul, reviews how it is going to affect you in the coming year, then speaks with the founder of Blue Earl Brewing Company and local brew master, Ron Price, about the importance of managing cash flow and building strong local relationships when growing your business. 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 (www.blueearlbrewing.com). Don't forget to check out the brewery's Big Earl Bottle Series and attend their 3rd Annual Christmas Party on Saturday, December 23rd from 5-11PM at "The Juke". For more information visit www.blueearlbrewing.com/copy-of-event-3-2 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

Being a new entrepreneur is stressful, and that stress is compounded when you start realizing just how little time there is in a day. Your energy and creativity may feel limitless, but your time isn't. On today's show, Ralph discusses tips for making your workday more productive and efficient. Submit you 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 discussed in show: https://ohiocpa.com/utilities/displaynewsitem/2017/11/13/avoid-these-8-entrepreneurial-time-wasters

There are many decisions that we all must make about retirement. One of the most perplexing relates to the types of retirement account options available, and where we should put our money first. On today's show, Ralph clears the air on the 401k vs. Roth IRA debate so you can make the best financial decision possible for your retirement savings. 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 a startup or small business, any reduction in overhead lets you shift more revenue to operational growth, while simultaneously freeing up your time. Outsourcing can provide continuity, operational expense control and risk management. It can also improve your work/life balance. On today's show, Ralph sits down with Dr. Trevor Ennis of Middletown Chiropractic and Rehabilitation Center to discuss the benefits of outsourcing for businesses seeking to manage time and better patient/client care. Submit you 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 on Dr. Trevor Ennis, Middletown Chiropractic & Rehabilitation Center and their new location in Dover, visit their website at www.middletownchiropractors.com, or give them a call directly at (302) 415-3646 to schedule an appointment for a free x-ray and consultation today.

Originally aired on Saturday, December 16th, 2017 on WILM 1450 in Wilmington and WDOV 1410 in Dover, Delaware. On today's show Ralph reviews options for Roth IRA and 401K planning, lists some top time wasters for entrepreneurs and sits down with Hope Lopez, co-owner of El Azteca Mexican Restaurant in Dover to discuss being a female small business owner. 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. Check out El Azteca Mexican Restaurant in Dover at 859 N. Dupont Highway, Dover DE 19901. Visit their website for more information (http://www.aztecadelaware.com). Don't forget to stop by their newest location in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware! 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.

Of all the choices you make when starting a business, one of the most important is the type of legal structure you select for your company. Not only will this decision have an impact on how much you pay in taxes, it will affect the amount of paperwork your business is required to do, the personal liability you face and your ability to raise money. On today's show, Ralph discusses how to choose the right legal entity for your business and best fits your needs. 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.

The holiday season is in full swing which also means scammers are out in full force. From gift card scams to "secret shopper" swindling, scam artists crank into high gear during the holiday season. Cybercriminals are stepping up their game to steal your money and personal information during the holidays. On today's show, Ralph discusses some holiday scams to be on the look out for this season so that your holiday can stay merry and bright. 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.

There is still uncertainty over when or if tax reform will be implemented; regardless, you may be able to save a bundle on your taxes if you make the right moves before the end of the year. On today's show Ralph outlines some end of the year tax planning strategies for reducing 2017 tax liability. 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.

Originally aired on Saturday, December 9th, 2017 on WILM 1450 in Wilmington and WDOV 1410 in Dover, Delaware. On today's show, holiday scams to avoid, deciding on the type of entity for your new business and Ralph sits down with Dr. Trevor Ennis of Middletown Chiropractic & Rehab Center to discuss the benefits of outsourcing for businesses seeking to manage time and better patient/client care. 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. For more information on Dr. Trevor Ennis, Middletown Chiropractic & Rehabilitation Center and their new location in Dover, visit their website at www.middletownchiropractors.com, or give them a call directly at (302) 415-3646 to schedule an appointment for a free x-ray and consultation today. 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.

An audit is arguably the most dreaded outcome of the tax filing process, and the situation carries with it some unsettling mystique. The standard nightmare has IRS agents with badges showing up on your doorstep and seizing the your personal assets. On today's show Ralph debunks common myths about IRS audits. Submit you 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 visit the IRS Audit FAQ

The internet has increased access to the global community, created a new online shopping economy and made sharing cat videos even easier. These innovations go hand-in-glove with intrusions from marketers and threats from criminals. On today's show, Ralph discusses steps to take control, protect yourself and keep your data safe. Submit you 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 on LastPass Password Manager, visit www.lastpasss.com or download the app! For more information on Yubico security keys, visit www.yubico.com for a complete list of their products. To download the Privacy Badger, go to https://www.eff.org/privacybadger and enable "DO NOT TRACK". To test your browser, visit https://panopticlick.eff.org/ for Panopticlick 3.0 and confirm that your browser is safe against tracking.

Imagine unhurried office visits, same day or next day sick appointments, and direct contact with your doctor. Not a fantasy, but an option under direct primary care physicians (DPC). On today's show, Ralph sits down with Dr. Beth Renzulli of WELL Primary Care to discuss health coverage alternatives like DPC and the benefit to patients. Submit you 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 on direct primary care, visit the Well Primary Care website at http://wellprimarycare.com/faq.html, or give them a call directly at (302)449-0079 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Beth Renzulli.

Originally aired on Saturday, December 2nd, 2017 on WILM 1450 in Wilmington and WDOV 1410 in Dover, Delaware. On today's show, Ralph gives pointers for protecting yourself online, outlines some end of the year tax planning strategies, and debunks common IRS audit myths. 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.

Throughout the year, many taxpayers contribute money or gifts to qualified organizations eligible for tax-deductible charitable contributions. However, the rules surrounding charitable donations can often be confusing. On today's show, Ralph discusses tips to help ensure your contribution pay off on your tax return this holiday season. Submit you 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: Search for Charities or download Publication 78, Cumulative List of Organizations Publication 526, Charitable Contributions (PDF 178K) Publication 561, Determining the Value of Donated Property (PDF 101K) Form 1040, U.S. Individual Income Tax Return (PDF 176K) Schedule A, Itemized Deductions (PDF) Form 8283, Noncash Charitable Contributions (PDF) Instructions for Form 8283, Noncash Charitable Contributions (PDF)

The first route many small businesses take when faced with problems is to look for the latest and greatest high-tech solution. Newer does not always mean better. Sometimes going the low-tech, even no-tech, route can wind up giving your business the edge it needs. On today's show, Ralph discusses 7 low-tech tips for small business owners seeking to make a greater and more personal impact with clients. Submit you 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, read the entire article from USA Today here: Abrams, Rhonda. (2017, November 08). 7 Low-Tech Success Secrets for Small Businesses. USA Today. Retrieved from https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/columnist/abrams/2017/11/08/7-low-tech-success-secrets-small-businesses/841974001/

If you are running a business, it does not matter whether you are an independent contractor, new start-up, or or established business owner, managing accounts payable is a key part of your everyday hassle. It’s tedious, it’s time-consuming, and it costs you money. On today's show, Ralph dives into everything you need to know to create an efficient and reliable AP system for your business. Submit you 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.

Originally aired on Saturday, November 25th, 2017 on WILM 1450 in Wilmington and WDOV 1410 in Dover, Delaware. On today's show, Ralph discusses charitable giving for the tax-minded individual, speaks with Dr. Beth Renzulli of WELL Primary Care in Delaware about health coverage alternatives, and gets down to the basics with some low-tech tips for business owners. 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. For more information on direct primary care, visit the Well Primary Care website at http://wellprimarycare.com/faq.html, or give them a call directly at (302)449-0079 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Beth Renzulli. 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.

A tax audit is unlikely for most Americans, as fewer than 1% of tax returns are audited each year; however, there are some factors that could make your tax return more likely to attract the IRS's attention. On today's show Ralph shares his list of the top 5 most common red flags for return filing and gives some tips for future filing. We want to hear from you! Do you have an idea for the show? Or have a year end tax question burning a whole in your brain? Or just want to shoot us some feedback on the show? If so, please let us know by emailing us at [email protected] or tweet us at @askralphmedia. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information.

Ralph sits down with Candice Caruso of Pango Financial to discuss some new and innovative funding options for small business owners and entrepreneurs. To learn more about Pango Financial's DreamSpark Plan, visit www.pangofinancial.com/dreamspark-funding-options/ or contact them directLY at 1-855-WHY-PANGO (1-855-949-7264). If you have any 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.

Life in the military can demand sacrifice: some personal, some financial. Although nothing can make up for the hardship, the government does offer some special tax breaks for military professional to alleviate some of that burden. Ralph discusses military tax tips on today's show. If you have any 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.

Originally aired on Saturday, November 18th, 2017 on WILM 1450 in Wilmington and WDOV 1410 in Dover, Delaware. On today's show Ralph talks IRS red flags, tips for paying your bills and interviews Candice Caruso with Pango Financial about alternative funding options for new businesses. 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.

One of the most important aspects of your small business is getting paid. On today's episode, Ralph outlines some steps to help manage and collect on you accounts receivable, ensure you have a steady cash flow and keep happy customers. If you have any questions or ideas for future shows, email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information.

Opening your own business is often a tough and learn-as-you-go process. But, the more smart decisions you make early on, the better chance your company has for success. On today's show, Ralph discusses five tips for small businesses to help you grow and run your business more effectively. If you have any questions or ideas for future shows, email us at [email protected]. Like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter (@askralphmedia) or visit www.askralphmedia.com for more information.

In part two of our FAQ series, Ralph answers more listener questions we received in time for our premiere week of shows. He discusses employer retirement plans, outlines the differences between employees and contractors, and when it is best to consult a professional tax preparer. If you have any questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected].

Ralph takes listener questions we received in time for our premiere week of shows. He discusses the best way to fill out a W4 form, implications of cashing out your retirement and what tax documents you need for the upcoming filing season. Look out for part two of our FAQ series this week! If you have any questions or ideas for future shows, tweet us at @askralphmedia or email us at [email protected].

Today's first show aired on Saturday, November 4th, 2017 on WILM 1450 in Wilmington and WDOV 1410 in Dover, Delaware. On today's show, the host Ralph V. Estep Jr. introduces himself and his business, discusses what you can expect in future episode and answers some FAQs we have received in time for our first broadcast. 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.

In this episode, the host of Ask Ralph, Ralph V. Estep Jr., introduces himself and his business, explains why he is doing a podcast and outlines what you can expect in future episodes. For more information about Ralph and the Ask Ralph Media, Inc. team Visit https://askralphmedia.com/ralph-v-estep%2C-jr-bio

If you get an unexpected letter from the Internal Revenue Service it can be quite a shock. If it isn't your refund check, then your pulse is probably rising. So what’s the first piece of advice? Don’t panic! The second piece of advice: Don’t ignore that notice! Ralph takes a closer look at dealing with notices received from the IRS on today's show.