Author: The Admiral Staff

October 11, 2023 Off

Stimulus Check Snafus: What Happens When Your Payment Goes Astray

By The Admiral Staff

If your stimulus check was sent to the wrong bank account—whether closed, overdrawn, or unrecognized—you will eventually receive your payment, but it will likely take longer. If the account is closed, the bank will return the check to the IRS, who will then mail a paper check. If an account is overdrawn, banks may apply the payment to the negative balance, though many have paused this practice. For those who received their refund via a tax prep service’s temporary account, the

October 6, 2023 Off

Automate Your Savings: The Effortless Path to Financial Security

By The Admiral Staff

The article suggests automating your savings to overcome the difficulty of consciously setting money aside. It highlights four methods: using apps like Acorns to round up purchases and invest the spare change, maximizing employer-sponsored retirement plans (like 401(k)s) and taking advantage of employer matching programs, scheduling automatic transfers to a separate savings account to avoid temptation, and utilizing direct deposit to send a portion of each paycheck directly to a savings account, effectively treating it as “extra” money.

October 5, 2023 Off

Beyond Breakfast: The Realities of Running a Bed & Breakfast

By The Admiral Staff

Opening a bed and breakfast can be a profitable venture, but it’s far more demanding than many imagine. It requires a full-time commitment, encompassing everything from website management and marketing to repairs and guest services. Experts recommend gaining experience through volunteering or B&B association classes before purchasing, and consider buying an existing inn needing improvement. Key factors for success include a desirable location, differentiating your B&B through unique touches and services, hiring reliable staff, and exceeding guest expectations to encourage repeat business.

October 4, 2023 Off

Tax Deductions: Your Secret Weapon Against Uncle Sam

By The Admiral Staff

Taxpayers can legally reduce their taxable income through deductions, which differ from tax credits. Deductions are expenses subtracted from taxable income, lowering the amount of taxes owed, while credits directly reduce the amount owed. Common deductions include charitable contributions, home office expenses, retirement account payments, student loan interest, and even expenses related to work like travel or vehicle use. Taxpayers can choose to itemize deductions or take a standard deduction, though itemizing may result in a larger return.

October 3, 2023 Off

Grow Smarter, Save Bigger: The Veggies That Really Pay Off in Your Garden

By The Admiral Staff

Starting a garden to save money on groceries can be worthwhile, but not all vegetables offer the same return. Salad greens, cherry tomatoes (especially heirloom varieties), green beans, and herbs like basil and rosemary are highly cost-effective to grow, potentially saving hundreds of dollars compared to grocery store prices. Honorable mentions include summer squash, carrots, zucchini, and leeks. However, vegetables like artichokes, carrots, cauliflower, celery, eggplant, and head lettuce are trickier to grow or simply too inexpensive