Using your benefits before the plan year expires is important. Most plans run on the calendar year, which means you may have less than a month to use the benefits before 2014 ends. If your benefits are employer sponsored, verify with your Human Resource Department if you are in doubt on the plan's benefit period.
If you have an FSA (Flexible Spending Account), you will forfeit the money in your account once the plan year ends for qualifying expenses. If your plan offers a grace period, you can submit receipts for items purchased or medical EOBs (Explanation of Benefits) prior to the end of the plan year. The IRS dictates eligible FSA expenses and the financial limits of what you or the employer can contribute. The employer can opt to have the plan limit be less than the maximum. Since this is money you elected to contribute (in most cases), you are actually losing money if you do not use it. You may want to consider adjusting your election amount for the next plan year.
Some benefits may roll over into the following year, again this is at the discretion of how the plan was set up by the employer. Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRA) can permit at least a partial carryover if funds remain at the end of the plan year. Check your plan document to see if this is the case.
Other reasons to use your benefits now are items like deductibles and co-pays may raise next year; your employer may not offer a particular benefit next year; and once the new plan year begins, your deductible resets and you will be responsible for the first dollar that is owed for any benefits used.
Remember the Open Enrollment window is a short time, so take time to consider your election decisions for the next plan year. See November's blog entry for more information on Open Enrollment for employer sponsored benefits. Remember the Medicare Open Enrollment period comes to an end in just a few days on December 7, 2014.
Tuesday, December 2, 2014
Monday, November 3, 2014
Decision Time
It's that time of year! Not only is it the time to begin planning for the holidays, it is also time for many people to make choices on their benefits.
Whether you are still employed and it's Open Enrollment time at work, or you are retired and deciding what Medicare Advantage plan to select for the next year, here are a few key points to consider.
Most plans run on the calendar year, which means all deductibles and out of pocket maximums reset to a starting balance of $0. If your plan does not have a renewal on January 1, this will happen on the date that your plan renews.
If you are employed, your options may be limited to the choices offered through your employer. If you purchase your own insurance, there are many options available and here are a few key tips and definitions.
Let's start with a few definitions.
A deductible is the portion of the expenses the insured must pay before the insurance plan begins to pay. There are some exceptions to items considered to be preventative.
An out of pocket maximum is the maximum amount you will pay in a plan year with the exception of prescription and doctor visit co-pays, which do not go away.
A co-pay is a payment made by the member for a prescription or a doctor visit. A primary care physician normally has a lower co-pay than a specialty physician like a cardiologist.
The premium is what you will pay for the benefit. It can be based on a weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, or in another time period. Many employer sponsored benefits are taken on a pre-tax basis, allowing your salary to be reduced before taxes are taken. Also, most employers pay most of the premium as a benefit of employment, leaving the employee to pay a small portion.
An aggregate family deductible requires all family members to "contribute" to the overall deductible before the total is reached. The total can be reached by one person or multiple family members. An embedded or "per individual" deductible means that family members must each satisfy a portion of the family deductible before the overall deducible is reached.
When selecting a medical plan, whether you are doing it on your own, through an employer, or if assisting an older family member looking for a Medicare Advantage plan, look at the options available, always verify the following:
Are your doctors and your hospital of choice in network? A network exists for lower costs to you when your providers join a network. You will pay the in network co-pays and portion of the insurance until you reach the deductible. If a provider is out of network, your portion increases.
In what tier are your medications? If you take a brand name medication, it may be in a higher tier for the co-pay. If a generic medication is available, request it to save money. Look at the co-pays for each tier. Using a mail-order pharmacy plan can save you money for a prescription you take on a daily basis.
If your employer offers additional benefits including a 401k or retirement plan, an FSA (flexible savings plan), and ancillary benefits (disability, life, etc.), take the time to carefully review these additional options since you can only enroll during open enrollment or for some if a qualifying event (marriage, death, new child) occur during the year. Take time to review the paperwork, ask questions, and consult with professionals if necessary when making your decisions.
Whether you are still employed and it's Open Enrollment time at work, or you are retired and deciding what Medicare Advantage plan to select for the next year, here are a few key points to consider.
Most plans run on the calendar year, which means all deductibles and out of pocket maximums reset to a starting balance of $0. If your plan does not have a renewal on January 1, this will happen on the date that your plan renews.
If you are employed, your options may be limited to the choices offered through your employer. If you purchase your own insurance, there are many options available and here are a few key tips and definitions.
Let's start with a few definitions.
A deductible is the portion of the expenses the insured must pay before the insurance plan begins to pay. There are some exceptions to items considered to be preventative.
An out of pocket maximum is the maximum amount you will pay in a plan year with the exception of prescription and doctor visit co-pays, which do not go away.
A co-pay is a payment made by the member for a prescription or a doctor visit. A primary care physician normally has a lower co-pay than a specialty physician like a cardiologist.
The premium is what you will pay for the benefit. It can be based on a weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, or in another time period. Many employer sponsored benefits are taken on a pre-tax basis, allowing your salary to be reduced before taxes are taken. Also, most employers pay most of the premium as a benefit of employment, leaving the employee to pay a small portion.
An aggregate family deductible requires all family members to "contribute" to the overall deductible before the total is reached. The total can be reached by one person or multiple family members. An embedded or "per individual" deductible means that family members must each satisfy a portion of the family deductible before the overall deducible is reached.
Are your doctors and your hospital of choice in network? A network exists for lower costs to you when your providers join a network. You will pay the in network co-pays and portion of the insurance until you reach the deductible. If a provider is out of network, your portion increases.
In what tier are your medications? If you take a brand name medication, it may be in a higher tier for the co-pay. If a generic medication is available, request it to save money. Look at the co-pays for each tier. Using a mail-order pharmacy plan can save you money for a prescription you take on a daily basis.
If your employer offers additional benefits including a 401k or retirement plan, an FSA (flexible savings plan), and ancillary benefits (disability, life, etc.), take the time to carefully review these additional options since you can only enroll during open enrollment or for some if a qualifying event (marriage, death, new child) occur during the year. Take time to review the paperwork, ask questions, and consult with professionals if necessary when making your decisions.
Wednesday, October 1, 2014
Shopping Reward for Overpayment
One of the largest chains in America has a cash reward feature that can give you a refund credit. Most people shop at Walmart because their locations are convenient and abundant. In the last 10 years, one opened within 5 miles of my home.
On a recent September shopping spree, I noted an index card sized tablet at the register. I tore off a sheet and once at home I read the paper. I learned that this major retailer wants to put money back into the pockets of their shoppers. No staff member had ever mentioned it to me, so I have to question whether the staff has been informed about it or are they just avoiding a wonderful promotion that assists their customers.
Called Savings Catcher (https://savingscatcher.walmart.com), any shopper can simply register their Walmart shopping receipt on the store's website for a review of the receipt vs. local competitors for a cheaper price. Up to 7 receipts can be entered during a week and within a few days, two emails will arrive in your inbox letting you know that your receipt was registered and if any money is being placed into your "account." This "account" is available for use on an upcoming Walmart shopping trip through an eGift Card.
Upon entering my first three receipts, I was disappointed to have a $0 balance. It was the fourth receipt that garnered $3.80 for purchased items. When this application checks local grocery stores and other chain stores, it found $.33 in savings for the razors purchased and $3,47 in grocery purchases including a whopping $2.53 for the grapes as compared to Bottom Dollar (a store in which I have never shopped nor even know of a local location).
My fifth receipt has placed $.66 back into my account. It was only on one item, frozen pizza that had a lower price at Weis Markets.
For shoppers with a smart phone, there is an app available. Both the app and the web site require minimal information after you are a registered Walmart user. Above the bar code on your receipt is a TC#, a 20 digit code that is unique to your shopping spree. The other piece of data is the date of your shopping spree.
Rules for use and the items not included in this program can be found at for following link. Many categories are excluded including electronics. https://savingscatcher.walmart.com/faq#faqs-matching
Walmart is not my firs choice for shopping. Some of the products we like are not available elsewhere in other stores. I know I will continue to spend the few minutes entering my receipts since I am seeing some savings.
On a recent September shopping spree, I noted an index card sized tablet at the register. I tore off a sheet and once at home I read the paper. I learned that this major retailer wants to put money back into the pockets of their shoppers. No staff member had ever mentioned it to me, so I have to question whether the staff has been informed about it or are they just avoiding a wonderful promotion that assists their customers.
Called Savings Catcher (https://savingscatcher.walmart.com), any shopper can simply register their Walmart shopping receipt on the store's website for a review of the receipt vs. local competitors for a cheaper price. Up to 7 receipts can be entered during a week and within a few days, two emails will arrive in your inbox letting you know that your receipt was registered and if any money is being placed into your "account." This "account" is available for use on an upcoming Walmart shopping trip through an eGift Card.
Upon entering my first three receipts, I was disappointed to have a $0 balance. It was the fourth receipt that garnered $3.80 for purchased items. When this application checks local grocery stores and other chain stores, it found $.33 in savings for the razors purchased and $3,47 in grocery purchases including a whopping $2.53 for the grapes as compared to Bottom Dollar (a store in which I have never shopped nor even know of a local location).
My fifth receipt has placed $.66 back into my account. It was only on one item, frozen pizza that had a lower price at Weis Markets.
For shoppers with a smart phone, there is an app available. Both the app and the web site require minimal information after you are a registered Walmart user. Above the bar code on your receipt is a TC#, a 20 digit code that is unique to your shopping spree. The other piece of data is the date of your shopping spree.
Rules for use and the items not included in this program can be found at for following link. Many categories are excluded including electronics. https://savingscatcher.walmart.com/faq#faqs-matching
Walmart is not my firs choice for shopping. Some of the products we like are not available elsewhere in other stores. I know I will continue to spend the few minutes entering my receipts since I am seeing some savings.
Monday, September 1, 2014
One Online Storage Option
Have you ever needed to access a document or an important piece of information when you are away from your home computer? Was your wallet stolen or you experienced a disaster when you lost important documents such as a college transcript or your driver's license?
There are many sites on the Internet where you can safely store items like your resume, a copy of your driver's license, and photos.
Google Drive is just one of these free cloud locations. By creating a profile on www.google.com, you can gain access to a series of applications that permit the storage of spreadsheets, typed documents, photos, videos, and scanned important documents. It's like having your hard drive accessible anywhere or not needing to carry a flash drive with you.
After you create a free account at google.com, look for the "tic tac toe" like icon (a nine small square board) in the upper right corner of the screen. When you open this icon, a series of nine applications are visible - Google+ (a simpler version of Facebook that has not caught fire), Search, YouTube, Maps, Play, News, Gmail, Drive, and Calendar. An additional option of "More" appears at the bottom of the window offering a variety of other choices. Each of these applications is free to use, some with the possibility of purchasing additional storage space.
I use Google Drive to store and access documents that I may need outside of my own laptop. Included in this is a spreadsheet of my user IDs, passwords, and security questions. Also, I have scanned important documents including my husband's and my drivers license, car registrations, medical ID cards, and other documents that if lost in a disaster like a fire or flood or if stolen, I can easily access anywhere from a computer.
To learn more, a tutorial is located on Youtube.com at www.youtube.com/watch?v=mpOmuG3HfPo.
There are many sites on the Internet where you can safely store items like your resume, a copy of your driver's license, and photos.
Google Drive is just one of these free cloud locations. By creating a profile on www.google.com, you can gain access to a series of applications that permit the storage of spreadsheets, typed documents, photos, videos, and scanned important documents. It's like having your hard drive accessible anywhere or not needing to carry a flash drive with you.
After you create a free account at google.com, look for the "tic tac toe" like icon (a nine small square board) in the upper right corner of the screen. When you open this icon, a series of nine applications are visible - Google+ (a simpler version of Facebook that has not caught fire), Search, YouTube, Maps, Play, News, Gmail, Drive, and Calendar. An additional option of "More" appears at the bottom of the window offering a variety of other choices. Each of these applications is free to use, some with the possibility of purchasing additional storage space.
I use Google Drive to store and access documents that I may need outside of my own laptop. Included in this is a spreadsheet of my user IDs, passwords, and security questions. Also, I have scanned important documents including my husband's and my drivers license, car registrations, medical ID cards, and other documents that if lost in a disaster like a fire or flood or if stolen, I can easily access anywhere from a computer.
To learn more, a tutorial is located on Youtube.com at www.youtube.com/watch?v=mpOmuG3HfPo.
Friday, August 1, 2014
Safety First
My goal in writing this monthly blog was to provide ways for you to save money. Sometimes there are other things that are more important, like safety.
Recently I learned from our local television station with a wonderful "On Your Side Team" that my year old car was under a recall. Their ability to share safety issues to the mass public in south central Pennsylvania is a major benefit to thousands. While this blog will only touch a few people, it may just be the the thing that makes someone's life safer.
The web sites I am featuring this month is an invaluable resource for anyone due to the vast nature of the items included. Whether you own an item or are looking to buy something new or used, keeping your family and home safe gives you piece of mind.
Log onto www.recalls.gov to search for recalled items. If the item you search is subject to a recall, instructions will be given on how to file a claim or where to return the item.
For example, select models of Gree dehumidifiers have been recalled due to the potential of a fire. We owned one and followed the instructions, including the immediate disconnection of the unit from the power source, cutting the power cord, and mailing it along with the completed recall form. This link shows which models by which manufacturers are under the dehumidifier recall and explain the recall process. www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls/2014/Gree-Reannounces-Dehumidifier-Recall
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls) is the agency that oversees the recalls. There is a listing of recently recalled items. That list includes clothing, light bulbs, a laptop computer, a snowblower, and many other items for which I did not see anything in the media. Auto recalls are not listed on this site. You can also report a product you feel is unsafe on their site
If you purchased a used car, it is extremely important for you to check for a recall. The major auto manufacturers only contact the original owner as long as they still reside at the same address where they resided when the automobile was purchased. Unless you take the vehicle to the an authorized manufacturer service center for the auto dealer, existing recalls will go undetected when your vehicle is in for servicing.
News agencies do cover recalls that affect the masses. Unless you have time on your hands to read newspapers and watch television all day, you will miss most of them. The Federal Government can be proud to offer the web sites that places all recalls in one convenient location.
Recently I learned from our local television station with a wonderful "On Your Side Team" that my year old car was under a recall. Their ability to share safety issues to the mass public in south central Pennsylvania is a major benefit to thousands. While this blog will only touch a few people, it may just be the the thing that makes someone's life safer.
The web sites I am featuring this month is an invaluable resource for anyone due to the vast nature of the items included. Whether you own an item or are looking to buy something new or used, keeping your family and home safe gives you piece of mind.
Log onto www.recalls.gov to search for recalled items. If the item you search is subject to a recall, instructions will be given on how to file a claim or where to return the item.
For example, select models of Gree dehumidifiers have been recalled due to the potential of a fire. We owned one and followed the instructions, including the immediate disconnection of the unit from the power source, cutting the power cord, and mailing it along with the completed recall form. This link shows which models by which manufacturers are under the dehumidifier recall and explain the recall process. www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls/2014/Gree-Reannounces-Dehumidifier-Recall
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls) is the agency that oversees the recalls. There is a listing of recently recalled items. That list includes clothing, light bulbs, a laptop computer, a snowblower, and many other items for which I did not see anything in the media. Auto recalls are not listed on this site. You can also report a product you feel is unsafe on their site
If you purchased a used car, it is extremely important for you to check for a recall. The major auto manufacturers only contact the original owner as long as they still reside at the same address where they resided when the automobile was purchased. Unless you take the vehicle to the an authorized manufacturer service center for the auto dealer, existing recalls will go undetected when your vehicle is in for servicing.
News agencies do cover recalls that affect the masses. Unless you have time on your hands to read newspapers and watch television all day, you will miss most of them. The Federal Government can be proud to offer the web sites that places all recalls in one convenient location.
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Deal or no deal?
Growing up, I fondly remember going to a store in my hometown called Grants. It was a variety store, selling a little of this and a little of that. It was similar to the 5 and 10-cent stores that existed in many small towns and some cities years ago. These locations were an easy way for our parents and grandparents to go to one location and shop before the days of shopping malls and Internet shopping. Many people could even walk to the store and carry their purchases home.
One of today's version of the variety store is known as the dollar store. Some are true dollar stores where item is one dollar while other stores sell items in one dollar increments like a 64-oz. bottle of laundry detergent for $3.00. The array of items they sell can save you money on many products, if you know what to look for while shopping. Determining the deal depends upon many factors.
1. Know what you would pay in another store. What is the price for the size? The dollar store size may be smaller in size, so do the math and determine if the price is worth it per ounce.
2. Be familiar with the label. Some of the stores sell major brands as well as look-a-likes, products that are similar to major brands in appearance and name. Counterfeits do exist, so be familiar with the company's logo and their packaging colors. Recently CNN reported on fakes in certain products. Here is the link to the story: http://www.cnn.com/2014/03/08/justice/new-york-counterfeit-beauty-supplies/index.html
3. Review the products packaging the manufacturing location and the ingredients. Many of the products are made outside the United States with ingredients that do not match those in the name brand product. There may be items like shampoo or toothpaste where you will not want to try another product due to the differences in the ingredients. There may be additives that change the quality of the product.
4. If the item is something that could expire, check for the expiration date. Buying out of date or about to expire products would be a waste of your money and could be dangerous to use or eat.
5. Shop at well established chains. Some are nationwide while others are regional.
6. Be careful of impulse buying. Keep to your list so you keep to your budget. Knowing you can fill your cart for less does not mean you should.
7. Look at the quality of the product. Is it well made or something that could break easily. One item I have seen with a major difference is aluminum foil. The dollar store version is a very thin foil in a smaller size.
Just like any other shopping, you can find deals. Try their items and see if you like the quality as much as that of the name brand item. One of the we sites that rates items in categories as a deal or not a deal for the dollar stores is Kiplinger. http://www.kiplinger.com/article/spending/T050-C000-S001-dollar-store-deal-or-no-deal.html
In the end, it is your decision where to shop and what to purchase. Be a conscious consumer while keeping money in your pocket.
One of today's version of the variety store is known as the dollar store. Some are true dollar stores where item is one dollar while other stores sell items in one dollar increments like a 64-oz. bottle of laundry detergent for $3.00. The array of items they sell can save you money on many products, if you know what to look for while shopping. Determining the deal depends upon many factors.
1. Know what you would pay in another store. What is the price for the size? The dollar store size may be smaller in size, so do the math and determine if the price is worth it per ounce.
2. Be familiar with the label. Some of the stores sell major brands as well as look-a-likes, products that are similar to major brands in appearance and name. Counterfeits do exist, so be familiar with the company's logo and their packaging colors. Recently CNN reported on fakes in certain products. Here is the link to the story: http://www.cnn.com/2014/03/08/justice/new-york-counterfeit-beauty-supplies/index.html
3. Review the products packaging the manufacturing location and the ingredients. Many of the products are made outside the United States with ingredients that do not match those in the name brand product. There may be items like shampoo or toothpaste where you will not want to try another product due to the differences in the ingredients. There may be additives that change the quality of the product.
4. If the item is something that could expire, check for the expiration date. Buying out of date or about to expire products would be a waste of your money and could be dangerous to use or eat.
5. Shop at well established chains. Some are nationwide while others are regional.
6. Be careful of impulse buying. Keep to your list so you keep to your budget. Knowing you can fill your cart for less does not mean you should.
7. Look at the quality of the product. Is it well made or something that could break easily. One item I have seen with a major difference is aluminum foil. The dollar store version is a very thin foil in a smaller size.
Just like any other shopping, you can find deals. Try their items and see if you like the quality as much as that of the name brand item. One of the we sites that rates items in categories as a deal or not a deal for the dollar stores is Kiplinger. http://www.kiplinger.com/article/spending/T050-C000-S001-dollar-store-deal-or-no-deal.html
In the end, it is your decision where to shop and what to purchase. Be a conscious consumer while keeping money in your pocket.
Sunday, June 1, 2014
Free Museum Entry
This month’s
blog is more restrictive as to those who will benefit from the tip. It applies to a select group of people and is
only valid now through Labor Day 2014.
If you or a
loved one is a currently enlisted active duty service member (including
reserves) or other dependent family member, you are in luck. An active duty military ID, the DD Form 1173 or
DD Form 1173-1 is required for admission in one of the participating museums. A listing is available at http://arts.gov/national/blue-star-museums. Click on the state and by town, a listing
will appear of the participating museums.
For additional
information regarding this opportunity, including more information on the
required identification, click on the FAQ link on the right side of the page.
Enjoy your
visit.
Thursday, May 1, 2014
Gardening in Small Spaces
Gardening is a creative science. In one sense, it is imaginative by producing unique combinations of plants, and in another it is innovative by finding unique ways to display what you grow.
For anyone living in an apartment, a townhouse, or any other location with a small outdoor area, usable space may not be available to have a large garden. It does not mean that you cannot plant and grow a small garden. Being ingenious is part of the key. With planting season upon us, now is the time to be motivated to try something new.
Although you may want to grow corn, doing so in a planter may not be feasible for your porch, but growing a tomato plant in a large planter using a tomato cage for support or hanging it upside down in a 5-gallon bucket (www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/tomato/growing-tomatoes-upside-down.htm) is possible.
Some of the ideas you will read here have been posted sites where people share ideas - Pinterest and Facebook. Others have come from my favorite websites or were discovered while researching the topic for this blog.
Search the web for Small Space Gardening to find many unique ideas. In the results will be some that are inexpensive and may use common items, while others will require some money and will involve the use of some tools to construct. Performing an image search to see photos is a great way to speed up your search process.
Just a few of the unique planting results found included:
One overall site on vertical gardening is www.vertical-gardener.com. Imagine growing a watermelon on a patio in netting. Check it out on their site by scrolling down for a picture.
Plant a garden for a purpose, to make a salad or a specialty like gazpacho - www.sunset.com/garden/fruits-veggies/container-vegetable-gardening-00418000067113
Try a salad bowl in a recycled wooden pallet. Versions are available vertically or horizontally - www.hilaryhodge.com/tag/vertical-lettuce-garden and couponconnections.com/how-to-turn-a-recycled-pallet-into-a-salad-garden
If using wood, is it pressure treated? If so, read this to learn more about items like pallets and railroad ties that are treated, as it may not be safe for growing edibles. www.onehundreddollarsamonth.com/pallet-gardening-101-creating-a-pallet-garden
More pallet ideas with herbs and plants in clay pots - woodenpalletfurniture.com/garden/pallet-vertical-planter
Vegetables in a pot - www.sunset.com/garden/fruits-veggies/how-to-grow-veggies-in-pots-00400000012149
It's great to be a square. This could be adapted into a rectangle too - squarefootgardening.org/square-foot-gardening-method
The use of PVC plumbing pipes creates unique vertical and horizontal garden planters - diply.com/different-solutions/diy-hydroponic-garden-tower-using-pvc-pipes/22181
The ideas are endless and depend upon your imagination and available space. Try using window box planters, colorful sand buckets, wire storage racks, or anything that may be adapted to hold dirt even using cocoa shell liners or moss to maintain the soil while accentuating your design. Enjoy the beauty and fruits of your labor!
For anyone living in an apartment, a townhouse, or any other location with a small outdoor area, usable space may not be available to have a large garden. It does not mean that you cannot plant and grow a small garden. Being ingenious is part of the key. With planting season upon us, now is the time to be motivated to try something new.
Although you may want to grow corn, doing so in a planter may not be feasible for your porch, but growing a tomato plant in a large planter using a tomato cage for support or hanging it upside down in a 5-gallon bucket (www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/tomato/growing-tomatoes-upside-down.htm) is possible.
Some of the ideas you will read here have been posted sites where people share ideas - Pinterest and Facebook. Others have come from my favorite websites or were discovered while researching the topic for this blog.
Search the web for Small Space Gardening to find many unique ideas. In the results will be some that are inexpensive and may use common items, while others will require some money and will involve the use of some tools to construct. Performing an image search to see photos is a great way to speed up your search process.
Just a few of the unique planting results found included:
One overall site on vertical gardening is www.vertical-gardener.com. Imagine growing a watermelon on a patio in netting. Check it out on their site by scrolling down for a picture.
Plant a garden for a purpose, to make a salad or a specialty like gazpacho - www.sunset.com/garden/fruits-veggies/container-vegetable-gardening-00418000067113
Try a salad bowl in a recycled wooden pallet. Versions are available vertically or horizontally - www.hilaryhodge.com/tag/vertical-lettuce-garden and couponconnections.com/how-to-turn-a-recycled-pallet-into-a-salad-garden
If using wood, is it pressure treated? If so, read this to learn more about items like pallets and railroad ties that are treated, as it may not be safe for growing edibles. www.onehundreddollarsamonth.com/pallet-gardening-101-creating-a-pallet-garden
More pallet ideas with herbs and plants in clay pots - woodenpalletfurniture.com/garden/pallet-vertical-planter
Vegetables in a pot - www.sunset.com/garden/fruits-veggies/how-to-grow-veggies-in-pots-00400000012149
It's great to be a square. This could be adapted into a rectangle too - squarefootgardening.org/square-foot-gardening-method
The use of PVC plumbing pipes creates unique vertical and horizontal garden planters - diply.com/different-solutions/diy-hydroponic-garden-tower-using-pvc-pipes/22181
The ideas are endless and depend upon your imagination and available space. Try using window box planters, colorful sand buckets, wire storage racks, or anything that may be adapted to hold dirt even using cocoa shell liners or moss to maintain the soil while accentuating your design. Enjoy the beauty and fruits of your labor!
Tuesday, April 1, 2014
Spring has Finally Sprung
After a very long and tough winter here in Pennsylvania, we are all very eager to see green grass and the beautiful of the rebirth as spring arrives with the trees regaining their leaves and new life as plants begin to bloom.
A few weeks ago, with more than a foot of snow on the ground, I purchased flower and vegetable seeds. It gave me a few moments to smile as I looked at the brightly colored packages and dreamed of the warm day when I would see a garden full of vegetables, herbs, and flowers. Since then, I have continued to plan and research in anticipation of the day that I can reap the first fruits of my efforts.
Gardening has been a hobby of mine for many years, and is a great way to get some exercise while creating a magnificent garden for viewing and eating. Seed packets will cost less than $2.50. For about $2, a four pack of most vegetables can be purchased and planted in your garden. Both will yield more than the minimal investment of for the seeds or the starter plants.
To start your garden, you need to know when the last frost normally occurs and in which plant hardiness zone you reside. This is just one of many zonal hardiness maps available online where you can enter your zip code to determine the zone in which you reside, a major factor used to determine what plants will thrive in your location at planthardiness.ars.usda.gov.
As you shop, your local garden centers will carry plants and seeds that are appropriate for your local zone. If you are purchasing seeds and plants online, then knowing your zone is even more important so your purchases will thrive in your zone.
Another important factor is knowing when is the chance of frost has passed. Even if the daytime high temperatures are rising, the nights can be cold, and the damage from frost can devastate your garden. If you plant early, be prepared to either bring plants indoors or cover them to protect their delicate foliage.
To save money, consider starting some seeds indoor in the next few weeks. Saving the plastic four and six-pack containers in which many seedlings are purchased can be used with good potting soil to sow some early plants that will not need much room to start. Look around your house for items to use to start your seeds - egg cartons and single serve yogurt containers are just a few things you may have around the house.
For inside growing, a warm sunny window or grow lighting is needed to assist in the indoor process. Some people prefer to use an outside cold frame greenhouse (created with a few pieces of wood and either an old window or heavy sheet of clear plastic), either starting the seeds in the ground or in small pots allowing them to have the daylight warmth and the evening cool temperatures.
If purchasing your seeds and plants online, select reputable sites. Burpee (www.burpee.com) has been in the business since 1881. Their site offers vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits in seeds and plants. Burpee's web site also have a grow calendar at www.burpee.com/gygg/growingCalendarNoZipCode.jsp.
Proven Winners (www.provenwinners) is one of my favorite sites for plants. I have never purchased their plants online, as the local roadside stands and nurseries where I shop sell their products locally. I use this site for their container recipes, which show you how to create planters and hanging baskets for their products.
Another useful site for local growing information and a location to take free or low cost seminars is through the Outreach and Extension in your state. For Pennsylvania, their web site is extension.psu.edu.
A few other things to do in preparation of starting your garden would be to turn the soil while amending it. A short tutorial for checking your soil is at www.ehow.com/how_2193665_amend-soil.html. Crop rotation is also important, as well as knowing what crops grow best together. One site that includes flowers, herbs, and vegetables is www.ghorganics.com/page2.html.
Dreamig of an abundant garden of freshly harvested produce makes me smile! I am eager to get outside and dig my hands into the soil to start my 2014 garden. Take a look at your yard, what are you planning to grow this year?
Next month, I'll have some tips for people with limited space like those in apartments and townhouses who may not be able to plant a traditional garden in the ground.
A few weeks ago, with more than a foot of snow on the ground, I purchased flower and vegetable seeds. It gave me a few moments to smile as I looked at the brightly colored packages and dreamed of the warm day when I would see a garden full of vegetables, herbs, and flowers. Since then, I have continued to plan and research in anticipation of the day that I can reap the first fruits of my efforts.
Gardening has been a hobby of mine for many years, and is a great way to get some exercise while creating a magnificent garden for viewing and eating. Seed packets will cost less than $2.50. For about $2, a four pack of most vegetables can be purchased and planted in your garden. Both will yield more than the minimal investment of for the seeds or the starter plants.
To start your garden, you need to know when the last frost normally occurs and in which plant hardiness zone you reside. This is just one of many zonal hardiness maps available online where you can enter your zip code to determine the zone in which you reside, a major factor used to determine what plants will thrive in your location at planthardiness.ars.usda.gov.
As you shop, your local garden centers will carry plants and seeds that are appropriate for your local zone. If you are purchasing seeds and plants online, then knowing your zone is even more important so your purchases will thrive in your zone.
Another important factor is knowing when is the chance of frost has passed. Even if the daytime high temperatures are rising, the nights can be cold, and the damage from frost can devastate your garden. If you plant early, be prepared to either bring plants indoors or cover them to protect their delicate foliage.
To save money, consider starting some seeds indoor in the next few weeks. Saving the plastic four and six-pack containers in which many seedlings are purchased can be used with good potting soil to sow some early plants that will not need much room to start. Look around your house for items to use to start your seeds - egg cartons and single serve yogurt containers are just a few things you may have around the house.
For inside growing, a warm sunny window or grow lighting is needed to assist in the indoor process. Some people prefer to use an outside cold frame greenhouse (created with a few pieces of wood and either an old window or heavy sheet of clear plastic), either starting the seeds in the ground or in small pots allowing them to have the daylight warmth and the evening cool temperatures.
If purchasing your seeds and plants online, select reputable sites. Burpee (www.burpee.com) has been in the business since 1881. Their site offers vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits in seeds and plants. Burpee's web site also have a grow calendar at www.burpee.com/gygg/growingCalendarNoZipCode.jsp.
Another useful site for local growing information and a location to take free or low cost seminars is through the Outreach and Extension in your state. For Pennsylvania, their web site is extension.psu.edu.
A few other things to do in preparation of starting your garden would be to turn the soil while amending it. A short tutorial for checking your soil is at www.ehow.com/how_2193665_amend-soil.html. Crop rotation is also important, as well as knowing what crops grow best together. One site that includes flowers, herbs, and vegetables is www.ghorganics.com/page2.html.
Dreamig of an abundant garden of freshly harvested produce makes me smile! I am eager to get outside and dig my hands into the soil to start my 2014 garden. Take a look at your yard, what are you planning to grow this year?
Next month, I'll have some tips for people with limited space like those in apartments and townhouses who may not be able to plant a traditional garden in the ground.
Saturday, March 1, 2014
What is a Credit Score and Why Is It Important?
A credit score is a mathematical formula taken from the information in your credit report (check out the February blog for additional information). The formula used indicates how likely you are to continue to pay your bills based upon how you have paid your bills in the past. A few of the factors that can affect your score (going up and down) are based upon the number of open accounts you have; how recently you have opened or closed an account; how many times you have paid late on an account.
Each of the three main credit reporting companies have their own scale. If you wish to know your credit score, you will need to pay a fee to obtain your credit score. Their score is different than the score by the most respected and widely used organization. For additional information, go to www.consumerfinance.gov/newsroom/consumer-financial-protection-bureau-report-examines-differences-between-credit-scores-consumers-and-lenders-receive.
A FICO credit score is considered to be the standard in the industry. Founded in 1956 as the Fair, Isaac and Company, they created a system to examine a person's credit history and create a number used by financial services companies. To compose a credit score, payment history (35%), amounts owed (30%), length of credit history (15%), new credit (10%), and types of credit used (10%) are combined. Your credit score is a number based upon a range of different categories:
Excellent Credit: 750+
Good Credit: 700-749
Fair Credit: 650-699
Poor Credit: 600-649
Bad Credit: below 599
Having a low credit score and keep you from securing a place to live, getting a car loan, and even getting a job. Therefore it is important to maintain a good payment history.
There are ways to improve your score. Paying on time, reducing the amount owed, and keeping the accounts open (closing an account will actually reduce your credit) will allow the number to raise over time.
Another reason for a low score can be someone without a credit history such as a recent college graduate. Open a major credit card, charge a small amount each month, and pay it off.
To learn more about credit scores, go to the FICO site at
www.myfico.com/Downloads/Files/myFICO_UYFS_Booklet.pdf.
Each of the three main credit reporting companies have their own scale. If you wish to know your credit score, you will need to pay a fee to obtain your credit score. Their score is different than the score by the most respected and widely used organization. For additional information, go to www.consumerfinance.gov/newsroom/consumer-financial-protection-bureau-report-examines-differences-between-credit-scores-consumers-and-lenders-receive.
A FICO credit score is considered to be the standard in the industry. Founded in 1956 as the Fair, Isaac and Company, they created a system to examine a person's credit history and create a number used by financial services companies. To compose a credit score, payment history (35%), amounts owed (30%), length of credit history (15%), new credit (10%), and types of credit used (10%) are combined. Your credit score is a number based upon a range of different categories:
Excellent Credit: 750+
Good Credit: 700-749
Fair Credit: 650-699
Poor Credit: 600-649
Bad Credit: below 599
Having a low credit score and keep you from securing a place to live, getting a car loan, and even getting a job. Therefore it is important to maintain a good payment history.
There are ways to improve your score. Paying on time, reducing the amount owed, and keeping the accounts open (closing an account will actually reduce your credit) will allow the number to raise over time.
Another reason for a low score can be someone without a credit history such as a recent college graduate. Open a major credit card, charge a small amount each month, and pay it off.
To learn more about credit scores, go to the FICO site at
www.myfico.com/Downloads/Files/myFICO_UYFS_Booklet.pdf.
Saturday, February 1, 2014
Why is Your Credit Report Important?
With the recent breach at major retailers around the holiday, not only checking you bank statement and monthly credit card statement are important, but so is your credit report.
If you are turned down for a loan or a credit card due to a bad credit history, you can obtain a copy of your credit report to see why. The company who denies your credit should convey which reporting agency they used for obtaining your credit report. But being proactive and obtaining your three reports annually will keep being denied credit from happening.
There are many television commercials and web sites that claim to offer you access to these credit reports. Before ordering, make sure you do not have to pay anything, as most offer a "free" trial period that will quickly expire and then require a monthly credit card fee to monitor your credit history. By reading the fine print if signing up on a website or with a credit monitoring website, you will know if there are fees to access your credit report and how often you can access it.
In December 2003, the FAST Act (Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act) was passed by Congress, allowing you to annually obtain through one convenient source, a free copy of your credit file from the three major credit reporting agencies. Your TransUnion®, Experian®, and Equifax® reports are available through one place once every 12 months.
Look for the legitimate website at www.AnnualCreditReport.com. If you do not feel comfortable ordering online, there are two other options for obtaining your free credit reports. By telephone at 877-FACTACT or by writing to request a form from Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281.
All three options will require you to give your name, address, Social Security Number, and birth date. You will also be required to provide additional information that verifies the agency is communicating with you, and not someone attempting to imitate you. To prove your identity, you will be required to prove a bill such as your monthly mortgage payment amount or another major reoccurring bill.
Some of the reasons why you should obtain copies for all three companies.
1. To stay on top of your credit history, obtaining more than one report is necessary. Different companies report your transactions to the different agencies. When you apply for credit (borrowing money to purchase a car or home, or opening a credit card, and even applying for a job) the company may only check one of these three sources. That's why checking all three is so important.
2. When you are delinquent account is caught up or an account is paid off, it may not be reported the each of the agencies in a timely fashion, allowing it to remain on your report. If you find anything that is inaccurate on your credit report, you can file an appeal with the agency. They must investigate with the company in question and update your report based upon their findings.
For additional information about your credit report, check out this government website: http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0155-free-credit-reports.
Next month, you can learn more about the importance of your credit score.
If you are turned down for a loan or a credit card due to a bad credit history, you can obtain a copy of your credit report to see why. The company who denies your credit should convey which reporting agency they used for obtaining your credit report. But being proactive and obtaining your three reports annually will keep being denied credit from happening.
There are many television commercials and web sites that claim to offer you access to these credit reports. Before ordering, make sure you do not have to pay anything, as most offer a "free" trial period that will quickly expire and then require a monthly credit card fee to monitor your credit history. By reading the fine print if signing up on a website or with a credit monitoring website, you will know if there are fees to access your credit report and how often you can access it.
In December 2003, the FAST Act (Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act) was passed by Congress, allowing you to annually obtain through one convenient source, a free copy of your credit file from the three major credit reporting agencies. Your TransUnion®, Experian®, and Equifax® reports are available through one place once every 12 months.
Look for the legitimate website at www.AnnualCreditReport.com. If you do not feel comfortable ordering online, there are two other options for obtaining your free credit reports. By telephone at 877-FACTACT or by writing to request a form from Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281.
All three options will require you to give your name, address, Social Security Number, and birth date. You will also be required to provide additional information that verifies the agency is communicating with you, and not someone attempting to imitate you. To prove your identity, you will be required to prove a bill such as your monthly mortgage payment amount or another major reoccurring bill.
Some of the reasons why you should obtain copies for all three companies.
1. To stay on top of your credit history, obtaining more than one report is necessary. Different companies report your transactions to the different agencies. When you apply for credit (borrowing money to purchase a car or home, or opening a credit card, and even applying for a job) the company may only check one of these three sources. That's why checking all three is so important.
2. When you are delinquent account is caught up or an account is paid off, it may not be reported the each of the agencies in a timely fashion, allowing it to remain on your report. If you find anything that is inaccurate on your credit report, you can file an appeal with the agency. They must investigate with the company in question and update your report based upon their findings.
For additional information about your credit report, check out this government website: http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0155-free-credit-reports.
Next month, you can learn more about the importance of your credit score.
Wednesday, January 1, 2014
Paying the Bill - Now or Later
Now that the Christmas and other winter holidays have passed, take time to double check your bank and credit card statements. In December, one major retailer had a breech of records and many people found items charged against their credit card or money drained from their bank account.
Constant monitoring of your accounts (online and in paper format) is a safest way to stay on top of potential problems anytime, especially after making major purchases, being on vacation, or holiday shopping.
Here are a few hints for before and after you shop:
1. Following a budget is paramount when shopping. Know who you are shopping for and what you are looking for. Check store ads and web sites for prices.
2. Many people prefer to use cash. It can be a good option, and it can be a bad option. Cash can be stolen and will not be replaced while a credit card or writing a check can offer a safety net.
3. Know who is authorized to make purchases on the account and know where the card is stored. One of the safest places for an unused credit card to be stored is in a safety deposit box.
4. Keep all receipts to verify against your account. Store them in a simple white envelope until you can justify your monthly statement.
5. Know the timing for when fraudulent charges can be contested against your account. The sooner you catch something questionable, the sooner the thief loses access to your account.
6. View your credit report annually (more of this topic next month).
Now is the time to start planning for next year's vacation or holiday shopping. Set up a "club" account for your vacation or next year's Christmas. If your bank does not offer this type of bank accounts, open an account at a different bank and do not chose the option of access with a debit/credit card. This will make the account accessible only when you physically go to the bank to deposit and withdrawal funds. Make normal deposits into the account through payroll deductions or when extra money is available (birthday, tax refund, etc.).
Having these funds will make the bills easier to "swallow" when the occur. Then you can enjoy spending this money and not feel the crunch of credit card bills after the event.
Constant monitoring of your accounts (online and in paper format) is a safest way to stay on top of potential problems anytime, especially after making major purchases, being on vacation, or holiday shopping.
Here are a few hints for before and after you shop:
1. Following a budget is paramount when shopping. Know who you are shopping for and what you are looking for. Check store ads and web sites for prices.
2. Many people prefer to use cash. It can be a good option, and it can be a bad option. Cash can be stolen and will not be replaced while a credit card or writing a check can offer a safety net.
3. Know who is authorized to make purchases on the account and know where the card is stored. One of the safest places for an unused credit card to be stored is in a safety deposit box.
4. Keep all receipts to verify against your account. Store them in a simple white envelope until you can justify your monthly statement.
5. Know the timing for when fraudulent charges can be contested against your account. The sooner you catch something questionable, the sooner the thief loses access to your account.
6. View your credit report annually (more of this topic next month).
Now is the time to start planning for next year's vacation or holiday shopping. Set up a "club" account for your vacation or next year's Christmas. If your bank does not offer this type of bank accounts, open an account at a different bank and do not chose the option of access with a debit/credit card. This will make the account accessible only when you physically go to the bank to deposit and withdrawal funds. Make normal deposits into the account through payroll deductions or when extra money is available (birthday, tax refund, etc.).
Having these funds will make the bills easier to "swallow" when the occur. Then you can enjoy spending this money and not feel the crunch of credit card bills after the event.
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