Money Girl

Hesitant about becoming an investor? Learn five ways to know for sure when you’re ready to invest. Read on for a clear plan to prepare your finances and mindset to start investing, no matter how much or little money you have.Read the transcript at https://www.quickanddirtytips.com/money-finance/investing/5-ways-to-know-when-you-should-start-investingCheck out all the Quick and Dirty Tips shows:www.quickanddirtytips.com/podcastsFOLLOW MONEY GIRLFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoneyGirlQDTTwitter: https://twitter.com/LauraAdams Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you’re confused by all the tax-advantaged retirement account options you can choose from, it’s time to get clarity and use them to build more wealth for the future. Laura walks you through 3 simple steps to choose the right retirement accounts for your situation. And keep listening for a BONUS tip from The Penny Hoarder on ways to earn money from the comfort of your own home! Read the full transcript of Choose the Right Retirement Accounts in 3 Simple StepsCheck out all the Quick and Dirty Tips showsFOLLOW MONEY GIRLOn FacebookOn Twitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you love the idea of traveling, but don't think you have enough money or time to get away, it’s time to reframe your mindset about chasing adventure. Whether you can only get away for long weekends or take extended tours, find out the tricks experienced travelers use to see the world on a budget. Read the transcript at https://www.quickanddirtytips.com/money-finance/saving-spending/tricks-to-travel-more-with-less-money-and-time Check out all the Quick and Dirty Tips shows: www.quickanddirtytips.com/podcasts FOLLOW MONEY GIRL Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoneyGirlQDT Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraAdams Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Positive information about your finances stays on your credit history for a long time--but the bad news is that negative information stays there too! Laura covers nine negative items that can appear in your credit history and for how long. Read the transcript at https://www.quickanddirtytips.com/money-finance/credit/9-negative-items-that-stay-on-your-credit-reports Check out all the Quick and Dirty Tips shows: www.quickanddirtytips.com/podcasts FOLLOW MONEY GIRL Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoneyGirlQDT Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraAdams Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Even though “doing a rollover” sounds like a cute dog trick, don’t underestimate its ability to save you some serious money. Laura answers 10 common questions about how to use a retirement rollover correctly so you avoid penalties, get more investment options, and continue growing your retirement nest egg. Read the transcript at https://www.quickanddirtytips.com/money-finance/retirement/10-retirement-rollover-faqs-that-will-make-you-richer Check out all the Quick and Dirty Tips shows: www.quickanddirtytips.com/podcasts FOLLOW MONEY GIRL Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoneyGirlQDT Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraAdams Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Part of loving the journey along the way to financial success is finding fulfillment in our day-to-day work. I know you'll love this special bonus clip I have for you today, which comes from a new podcast from Wondery called Safe For Work, hosted by Liz Dolan and Matt Ritter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Working from home, either as a remote employee or for your own business, has become common--but tax reform significantly changes who can claim a deduction for it. Laura explains the new rules for taking a home office deduction and how to use it to save money. Read the transcript at https://www.quickanddirtytips.com/money-finance/taxes/work-from-home-tax-reform-changes-to-the-home-office-deduction?page=1 Check out all the Quick and Dirty Tips shows: www.quickanddirtytips.com/podcasts FOLLOW MONEY GIRL Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoneyGirlQDT Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraAdams Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Building and maintaining great credit is an important part of your financial life. But there are loads of myths and misunderstandings about credit that can hurt your wallet. Laura covers 12 credit myths and truths you should know to save money and improve your finances. Read the transcript at Check out all the Quick and Dirty Tips shows: www.quickanddirtytips.com/podcasts FOLLOW MONEY GIRL Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoneyGirlQDT Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraAdams Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Think you have to sacrifice benefits when you leave a traditional job? Laura explains how to create your own benefits package when you're self-employed and answers several related questions from Money Girl readers and podcast listeners. Read the transcript at https://www.quickanddirtytips.com/money-finance/retirement/5-steps-to-create-your-own-self-employed-benefits-package Check out all the Quick and Dirty Tips shows: www.quickanddirtytips.com/podcasts FOLLOW MONEY GIRL Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoneyGirlQDT Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraAdams Get the Money Girl book at http://www.MoneyGirlBook.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feel like your personal finances are too complicated? It's time to streamline and declutter. Laura gives tips to simplify your financial life, stay organized, and know which financial records to keep and for how long. Read the transcript at https://www.quickanddirtytips.com/money-finance/taxes/tips-to-simplify-finances-and-keep-good-records Check out all the Quick and Dirty Tips shows: www.quickanddirtytips.com/podcasts FOLLOW MONEY GIRL Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoneyGirlQDT Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraAdams Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Roth accounts are a vastly underutilized and misunderstood way to save for retirement. Get the scoop on 7 ways you receive huge tax benefits, access to funds, and flexibility with a Roth IRA or a Roth retirement plan at work. Laura also answers a podcast listener's question about whether tax reform should make him re-think retirement account choices. Get the Money Girl book at https://www.MoneyGirlBook.com. Read the transcript at https://www.quickanddirtytips.com/money-finance/retirement/benefits-of-roth-ira-and-roth-401k Check out all the Quick and Dirty Tips shows: www.quickanddirtytips.com/podcasts FOLLOW MONEY GIRL Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoneyGirlQDT Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraAdams Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I'm excited to tell you about a new podcast called Business Wars. The way we live and the things we buy are always influenced by big businesses and the entrepreneurs behind them. Business Wars gives you the unauthorized, real story of what drives these companies and their leaders, inventors, investors and executives to new heights -- or to ruin. Hosted by David Brown, former anchor of Marketplace. From Wondery, the network behind Dirty John and American History Tellers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or a first-timer, your credit score is a primary factor that mortgage lenders consider when evaluating your application. Follow these 6 steps to build or repair your credit before house hunting so you get approved for a mortgage that costs as little as possible. Read the transcript at https://www.quickanddirtytips.com/money-finance/credit/steps-to-build-or-repair-credit-before-buying-home Check out all the Quick and Dirty Tips shows: www.quickanddirtytips.com/podcasts FOLLOW MONEY GIRL Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoneyGirlQDT Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraAdams Get the Money Girl book at http://MoneyGirlBook.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Reforms in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act begin in 2018 and affect virtually every U.S. taxpayer. Find out which changes shake up your personal finances the most so you can prepare, avoid potential pitfalls, and keep your tax liability as low as possible. Read the transcript at http://www.quickanddirtytips.com/money-finance/taxes/tax-reform-law-2018-ways-it-affects-your-personal-finances Check out all the Quick and Dirty Tips shows: www.quickanddirtytips.com/podcasts FOLLOW MONEY GIRL Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoneyGirlQDT Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraAdams Get the Money Girl book at http://www.MoneyGirlBook.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you're frustrated by student loans it's time to get familiar with your options. Find out the difference between a student loan refinance and a consolidation, who can use them, and how to make your education debt more manageable and affordable. Read the transcript at http://www.quickanddirtytips.com/money-finance/loans/should-you-refinance-or-consolidate-your-student-loans Check out all the Quick and Dirty Tips shows: www.quickanddirtytips.com/podcasts FOLLOW MONEY GIRL Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoneyGirlQDT Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraAdams Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's time to kick-off the New Year with a solid money strategy for success! Follow these 5 action steps to create a plan that allows you to have more control, peace, and a better financial future. Get the Money Girl book at http://www.MoneyGirlBook.com. Read the transcript at http://www.quickanddirtytips.com/money-finance/saving-spending/steps-to-create-money-strategy-2018 Check out all the Quick and Dirty Tips shows: www.quickanddirtytips.com/podcasts FOLLOW MONEY GIRL Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoneyGirlQDT Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraAdams Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Whether you need quick ways to cut expenses ahead of the holidays or just want to save more for retirement (or other financial goals), there are plenty of ways to put money back in your bank account. Laura covers 10 of the best ways to cut your bills and save more money now. Get the Money Girl book at http://www.MoneyGirlBook.com. Read the transcript at http://www.quickanddirtytips.com/money-finance/saving-spending/best-ways-to-lower-your-bills-now Check out all the Quick and Dirty Tips shows: www.quickanddirtytips.com/podcasts FOLLOW MONEY GIRL Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoneyGirlQDT Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraAdams Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The end of the year is always a busy time with holiday preparations and celebrations--but it's also a critical deadline for your personal finances and last-minute opportunities to save money. Due to pending tax reform, making smart tax moves may be even more important this year. Laura reviews five ways to save money based on the current tax law and what’s proposed for the future. Get the Money Girl book at http://www.MoneyGirlBook.com. Read the transcript at http://www.quickanddirtytips.com/money-finance/taxes/tax-reform-tips-to-save-money-now Check out all the Quick and Dirty Tips shows: www.quickanddirtytips.com/podcasts FOLLOW MONEY GIRL Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoneyGirlQDT Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraAdams Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Living with a romantic partner is a big step emotionally, legally, and financially. Find out how to set important expectations and avoid 4 common financial mistakes that could trip up your relationship. Read the transcript at http://www.quickanddirtytips.com/money-finance/saving-spending/financial-mistakes-couples-make-moving-in-together Check out all the Quick and Dirty Tips shows: www.quickanddirtytips.com/podcasts FOLLOW MONEY GIRL Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoneyGirlQDT Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraAdams Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you frustrated because your credit score dropped suddenly for no apparent reason? Laura answers a listener question and covers 5 lesser-known reasons why credit scores can drop unexpectedly. These tips will help you raise your credit score as quickly as possible. Read the full transcript here: http://bit.ly/2djn5i1 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ready for a life change like quitting your job to pursue a new career, starting your own business, or going back to school? Making a jump is both exciting and risky. Find out what financial steps you should take before leaving a comfortable work situation to follow your passion. Get the Money Girl book at http://www.MoneyGirlBook.com. Read the transcript at http://www.quickanddirtytips.com/money-finance/saving-spending/changing-career-financially-prepared Check out all the Quick and Dirty Tips shows: www.quickanddirtytips.com/podcasts FOLLOW MONEY GIRL Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoneyGirlQDT Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraAdams Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A simple explanation on the differences between buying and leasing a car, and 6 Money Girl tips to know which option is best for you. Read the transcript at http://www.quickanddirtytips.com/money-finance/loans/buying-vs-leasing-a-car Check out all the Quick and Dirty Tips shows: www.quickanddirtytips.com/podcasts FOLLOW MONEY GIRL Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoneyGirlQDT Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraAdams Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Check out this bonus episode from our new podcast, When to Jump! Learn more at www.whentojump.com/podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you're ready to buy a home you'll need enough down payment money to qualify for a mortgage. Find out how much you need, 6 tips to save faster, and the best places to stash cash for your new home. Read the full transcript here: http://bit.ly/29Lbovm Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Want a raise or promotion, but don't know where to start? Learn how to negotiate and get what you want, even if the answer is no! Find out how to make requests part of your work mindset, properly prepare for reviews, and use 5 steps to negotiate effectively. Read the transcript at http://www.quickanddirtytips.com/money-finance/saving-spending/how-to-negotiate-for-more-money Check out all the Quick and Dirty Tips shows: www.quickanddirtytips.com/podcasts FOLLOW MONEY GIRL Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoneyGirlQDT Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraAdams Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Don't get confused about where to invest your extra cash. Laura answers a listener question and gives tips for the different types of accounts you can use to put away additional money when you’re a good saver, get a raise, or receive an unexpected cash windfall. No matter how much or how little extra savings you have, find out the right way to prioritize it. Get the Money Girl book at http://www.MoneyGirlBook.com Read the transcript at http://www.quickanddirtytips.com/money-finance/retirement/where-to-invest-after-maxing-out-retirement-account Check out all the Quick and Dirty Tips shows: www.quickanddirtytips.com/podcasts FOLLOW MONEY GIRL Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoneyGirlQDT Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraAdams Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Laura reviews 4 easy ways to invest in stocks with little money or experience and answers a podcast listener's question. You'll learn a simple strategy to invest confidently and wisely so you build plenty of wealth for the future. Get the Money Girl book at http://www.MoneyGirlBook.com. Read the transcript at http://www.quickanddirtytips.com/money-finance/investing/how-to-invest-in-stocks-with-little-money-or-experience Check out all the Quick and Dirty Tips shows: www.quickanddirtytips.com/podcasts FOLLOW MONEY GIRL Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoneyGirlQDT Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraAdams Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever felt frustrated, overwhelmed, or confused about a big financial decision? Most of us waffle about whether we should or shouldn’t spend money or make key financial moves. In this post, Laura gives a simple framework to stay disciplined and make better money decisions in less time, with a lot more clarity and confidence. Read the full transcript here: http://bit.ly/2hZIda9 Get the Money Girl book at http://MoneyGirlBook.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Data hacks can leave you vulnerable to cybercriminals. Laura covers 8 warning signs to watch out for and how to fight back if you become a victim. Plus, she answers a variety of questions from readers and podcast listeners about topics including protecting kids’ credit, signing up for credit monitoring, and placing security alerts on your credit files. Get the Money Girl book at http://MoneyGirlBook.com. Read the transcript at http://www.quickanddirtytips.com/node/11926 Check out all the Quick and Dirty Tips shows: www.quickanddirtytips.com/podcasts FOLLOW MONEY GIRL Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoneyGirlQDT Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraAdams Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cybercriminals hacked Equifax and took the personal information of 143 million Americans, about half of the U.S. adult population. If you have a credit report, there’s a good chance your personal information was exposed. Laura explains what happened and 5 steps you should take now to protect your financial life. Get the Money Girl book at http://www.MoneyGirlBook.com. Read the transcript at http://www.quickanddirtytips.com/node/11876 Check out all the Quick and Dirty Tips shows: www.quickanddirtytips.com/podcasts FOLLOW MONEY GIRL Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoneyGirlQDT Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraAdams Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Natural disasters happen no matter where you live. Laura explains how to be properly insured, get a fair claim settlement, apply for federal assistance, work with contractors, and avoid scams. You'll learn how prepare for and deal with any type of natural disaster so you ’re in the best position to save yourself and your finances. Get the Money Girl book at http://www.MoneyGirlBook.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Taxes probably aren't your favorite topic, but the more you understand about them, the more money you can save by legally cutting your tax bill. Laura answers seven tax-related questions about working remotely, living abroad as an expat, and doing freelance work. Get the Money Girl book at http://www.MoneyGirlBook.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you've ever wondered if you should invest in precious metals, it's time to get more information. Laura answers a listener question about owning gold in light of the political climate. She'll explain why investors choose gold, how to buy it, and what amount might be right for your portfolio. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Claiming the home office deduction is a smart way to make certain expenses fully or partially deductible. But there are strict rules to qualify. Find out who can claim the often-overlooked home office deduction, which expenses are deductible, and how to figure out the amount you can deduct. Maxing out legal tax breaks helps you keep more of your money so you reach your financial goals faster. Get the Money Girl book at http://www.MoneyGirlBook.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Laura interviews a Social Security expert about how the program works and what you need to know even if you're nowhere near retirement age. They discuss who's eligible for benefits, pros and cons of taking early retirement, how to avoid expensive Social Security mistakes, and the future of the program. Get the Money Girl book at http://MoneyGirlBook.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Retirement accounts can be the best way to secure your future--but the rules can be confusing. Laura answers four IRA questions about who's eligible, the rules for doing rollovers, and tips to retire early. Get the Money Girl book at http://MoneyGirlBook.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Laura answers questions about how to build credit, manage credit utilization, correct credit errors, handle past due accounts, and prioritize debt the best way possible. Read or listen to the audio podcast for key tips to maintain good credit for life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Money Girl interviews a 529 college savings plan expert on how to fund higher education for yourself, a child, or grandchild without going broke. Learn how to choose the right 529 plan and use it wisely, how much to save, what the funds can be used for, and the tax benefits that make these special accounts the perfect way to save for college. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Five important traits to look for when choosing a life partner (plus many to avoid) so you're more likely to have a happy and successful financial life together. Read the full podcast here: http://bit.ly/1F40uGs Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do you have concerns or unanswered questions about investing for retirement that have kept you from getting started? It's time to get more clarity so you can move your finances forward with confidence instead of staying stuck and never building wealth. Laura answer 3 questions about how to choose the best accounts, cut investment fees, and manage risk the best ways possible. Get the Money Girl book at http://MoneyGirlBook.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Want to become an entrepreneur while avoiding all the potential pitfalls? Laura interviews Patrick McGinnis, author of The 10% Entrepreneur about why you don't have to choose between your current career and starting a profitable side business. Find out how to balance financial stability and volatility with grace and embrace where even a part-time venture can lead you. Get the Money Girl book at http://www.MoneyGirlBook.com. Read the transcript at http://bit.ly/2sOhmWA Check out all the Quick and Dirty Tips shows: www.quickanddirtytips.com/podcasts FOLLOW MONEY GIRL Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoneyGirlQDT Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraAdams Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Woohoo, it's the 500th episode of Money Girl! Let's celebrate by going behind the scenes. Laura shares the Money Girl story, how she got started as a personal finance expert and author, how the podcast began, its major influence on her career, and how the show gets created for you each week. Get the Money Girl book at http://www.MoneyGirlBook.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

While having bad credit can be a roadblock when applying for a loan from a traditional lender, it doesn't mean that you can't get a loan. Laura covers 6 lending alternatives to get a loan even if your credit is less than perfect. Read the full transcript here: http://bit.ly/1YkHwH7.Read the transcript atCheck out all the Quick and Dirty Tips shows:www.quickanddirtytips.com/podcastsFOLLOW MONEY GIRLFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoneyGirlQDTTwitter: https://twitter.com/LauraAdams Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Handling debt wisely is one of the most important parts of your financial life. Laura answers 6 questions she recently received about student loans, HELOCs, and credit card debt. You'll learn tips to protect your credit, use existing home equity, manage student loan repayment, and prioritize your personal finances. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Laura interviews Jocelyn Paonita Pearson, a scholarship expert and founder of The Scholarship System. They talk about how to pay for college without loans by using scholarship funds. After years of trial and error, Jocelyn cracked the code on how to get a free ride through college. She got over $126,000 in scholarships and graduated completely debt free. You’ll learn common scholarship myths to avoid, different types to go after, the best age to start applying, and a free resource to learn more. Get the Money Girl book at http://www.MoneyGirlBook.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We love our pets, but they can be expensive! Laura discusses what it really costs to own a pet and 5 tips to cut expenses for a current or new furry friend. This post is dedicated to her sweet yellow Lab, Dixie, who's resting in peace after 17 years of loyal companionship. Get the Money Girl book at http://www.MoneyGirlBook.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Laura interviews Mike Kinane, a HELOC expert and Senior Vice President for Consumer Lending at TD Bank. They discuss just about everything current or future homeowners need to know about getting a home equity line of credit. You'll learn how you can spend funds, amounts you can borrow, qualification guidelines, potential fees, rules for claiming interest as a tax deduction, and what to do when interest rates are moving up. Read the full transcript here: http://bit.ly/2p6tZXx Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's time to get clarity on your investing questions. Laura answer 7 questions from the Money Girl community about a variety of investing and retirement topics. You’ll learn how to get higher investment returns, retire early, prioritize accounts, do rollovers, know when you should invest, and rules for managing multiple retirement accounts. Cut the confusion and you'll have more success! Read the full transcript here: http://bit.ly/2py0GAM Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever wanted to make sure your kid would end up rich? The secret to having a secure future or paying for college could be setting him or her up with an IRA--an underutilized vehicle that many people miss. Laura explains the benefits of starting an IRA for minors, the rules for eligibility, how to open an account, and when you can spend the money penalty free. Read the full transcript here: http://bit.ly/2p1wfUG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Taking advantage of a retirement plan at work and an IRA is a smart way to cut taxes and save more money for the future. But having multiple accounts can change the rules. Laura answers a listener question and explains how to avoid pitfalls so you leverage multiple accounts to reach your retirement goals. Read the full transcript here: http://bit.ly/2nJuaaB Get the Money Girl book at http://MoneyGirlBook.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.