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personalfinance: Archive

Meredith Margrave

Filed a Tax Extension? Here's Exactly What to Do Next

A tax extension gives you more time to file your return, but NOT more time to pay what you owe. Meredith dispels the extension "fairytale" and lays out a five-step plan to make sure you can lessen the penalties and make the most of this breathing room.

Meredith Margrave

The Layoff that Changed My Life

Losing a job can be incredibly frightening, but it can also help to simplify your life and focus on what truly matters. Meredith explains how the dream job she lost transformed her life for the better.

Meredith Margrave

How to Be Generous (Even When Your Budget Isn't)

There are countless ways to help loved ones that don't involve money. Meredith shares several suggestions to support family and friends when they most need it - no cash required.

Meredith Margrave

The Procrastinator's Guide to Doing Your Taxes at the Last Minute

It's April 15 and you still haven't done your taxes? Well, it's time to buckle down and fill out those forms... or apply for an extension. Meredith has been there before and shares a seven-step plan to help you avoid penalties and stay in the IRS' good graces.

Meredith Margrave

Stop Freaking Out About the Market (Read This Instead)

The worst time to sell is during a market downturn. History shows that the market not only recovers from major pullbacks, but also comes back even stronger. Meredith has three tips for nervous investors to provide clarity and comfort in chaotic times.

Meredith Margrave

Want to Help a Friend Financially? Read This First

Before lending money to loved ones, make sure you can afford it. Your friendship could depend on it! Meredith encourages you to build a financial cushion not only for yourself but also to support others when they need it.

Meredith Margrave

How I Stopped Stressing About the Market for Good

Staying invested can be tough when the market is plummeting, but that kind of steady approach pays off over time. Meredith has a great strategy to help you stay disciplined, even when the market is making you anxious.

Meredith Margrave

This Year's Top 12 Tax Scams, According to the IRS

It may be tax season for you, but for others it's "scam season." Meredith doesn't want you to fall prey to a rip-off that can cost your thousands of dollars. Discover how these scams operate and how to safeguard yourself.

Meredith Margrave

My Home Office Is My Favorite Tax Write-Off

If you???re one of the millions of people who run a business from home, a home office deduction could lead to significant savings come tax season. Meredith gave it a try... and loves it! Find out if you qualify.

Meredith Margrave

You Can't Predict the Economy, But You Can Prepare for It

Meredith outlines seven steps to help improve your financial flexibility, ensuring that you're ready for anything the market throws your way.

Meredith Margrave

Your Money Is More Powerful Than You Think

Consumer activism is all about voting with your dollar and inspiring others to do the same. However, staying true to your values can have an impact on your household finances. Meredith offers five ways to take a stand without breaking the budget.

Meredith Margrave

If You Haven't Started Your 2024 Taxes Yet, Consider This Your Wake-Up Call

The early filer gets the quick return... along with a lot of peace of mind during tax season. Meredith shares four tips for getting the tax ball rolling right now to save you from big headaches later.

Meredith Margrave

Could Going Vegan Be the Secret to Slashing Your Grocery Bill?

The impact of inflation is most strongly felt at the grocery store, but being an intentional shopper can help you manage the high prices without giving up the stuff you love. Meredith offers seven steps to lower your grocery bill.

Meredith Margrave

The IRS Is Cracking Down on AI Tax Mistakes - Are You at Risk?

AI may be one of the most groundbreaking technologies in decades, but it still doesn't really understand the intricacies of our complex tax code... at least, not yet. And if it makes mistake, the responsibility falls on YOU.

Meredith Margrave

Recession Panic Is Everywhere - Here's What It Actually Means for You

While you can't stop a recession, you can definitely prepare for one. Meredith shares five essential tips to not just survive, but thrive through economic downturns.

Meredith Margrave

Market Drops are Buying Opportunities

The smartest investors don't sell when the market drops... they buy! But you need to know what and how to buy. Meredith has three steps to make sure that you come out of this downturn with even more money for your personal finances.

Meredith Margrave

Why Everyone Should Spend One Tax Season Doing This

A key financial skill to master is truly understanding how our tax system works. Meredith strongly suggests becoming a tax volunteer to gain the knowledge needed to predict and prepare for anything our complex system might throw your way.

Meredith Margrave

The Annual Bonus That Messes With Our Brains

A nice bonus can suddenly make luxuries feel like necessities. Meredith has 11 ideas for keeping 'lifestyle creep' at bay so that you can start spending your windfalls intentionally with a focus on the future.

Meredith Margrave

Why You're Stuck Financially (and How to Finally Move Forward)

Nobody is born knowing how to manage money... it's a skill you learn. So Meredith wants you to cut yourself some slack on past financial mistakes and make at least one move today for your financial future.

Meredith Margrave

5 Money Moves From 2024 That I'd Totally Make Again

Your personal finance decisions don't have to be extreme to have a big impact. Meredith outlines five modest moves from last year that made her family's financial life easier and more efficient. Now it's your turn to take action and start seeing results!

Meredith Margrave

One Simple Shift That Could Save You Thousands This Tax Season

Most of what you've heard about tax brackets is false. In fact, if you know how this system works, then you can use it to make better decisions and save more money. Meredith offers several smart moves to shrink your tax bill.

Meredith Margrave

Tax Filing Mistakes That Could Get You in Trouble with the IRS

A small tax mistake might just delay your refund, but a major one could lead to an audit and hefty fines. Meredith breaks down four common tax errors that can put you in the IRS' crosshairs and offers tips on how to steer clear of them.

Meredith Margrave

Tax Filing Mistakes That Could Delay Your Refund

The smallest, most-seemingly insignificant mistakes on your tax forms can lead to major delays in getting your refund. A little extra caution can remove a lot of the stress from tax season. Meredith has a checklist to review before sending your forms to Uncle Sam.

Meredith Margrave

Costly Tax Mistakes That Could Leave Money on the Table

The IRS doesn't advertise the myriad of ways that people can save money during tax season. Meredith explains how to avoid some of the most common mistakes that can cost you thousands of dollars in savings.

Meredith Margrave

Lifestyle Creep: How to Spot It, Stop It, and Stay Ahead of It

"Lifestyle creep" will sneak up and take over your personal finances, unless you're alert enough to notice the signs. Meredith breaks down the warnings signals and offers several ways to start spending smarter without sacrificing life???s little luxuries.