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Top 5 tax-deductible charity contributions

Top 5 tax-deductible charity contributions
Donating to charities is a meaningful way for individuals to contribute to society and gain personal benefits. Unbeknownst to many, charitable contributions made in the country make an individual eligible for tax advantages, creating a win-win scenario. Contributions like cash donations, non-cash donations like clothing or household items, stocks, etc., can lead to tax benefits. Explore some tax-deductible charitable gifts and donations below to understand how to make a positive impact while enjoying financial advantages. Cash donations Cash donations are one of the simplest ways to contribute to charitable causes and get tax benefits. Cash donations can be made in various ways, including checks, credit cards, or through payroll deductions made by one’s employer. If one is donating cash to qualified public charities, it allows them a tax deduction of up to 60% of their adjusted gross income (AGI) in a year. Furthermore, making cash donations to private foundations allows individuals a tax deduction of up to 30% of their AGI. To claim tax deductions, one must keep records of their donations, such as bank statements, canceled checks, or receipts and acknowledgment letters from the charity. Non-cash donations Besides cash, donating goods such as clothing, furniture, or household items can also yield tax benefits.

5 common mistakes people make with their fridge

5 common mistakes people make with their fridge
It is a common practice for many people to stuff their grocery haul into the fridge and call it a day. While stocking a fridge is quick and easy, this approach can do more harm than good. It can increase the risk of food spoilage and hamper the optimal functioning of the fridge. To ensure the appliance’s durability and lower the risk of food spoilage, avoid these common mistakes people often make with their fridge. Not making the most of the fridge space A common problem many face is that the fridge space is not enough to store everything they want. But if one looks closely, they will find many things inside the fridge that have eaten up some necessary space—for instance, bottles of expired sauces or juice boxes and yogurt tubs that have gone bad. A common mistake many people commit is forgetting to declutter their fridge, making it difficult for them to make the most of the available space. Keeping the temperature too high or too low It is important to set the fridge temperature at the correct level depending on the weather conditions. For instance, the fridge temperature can be at the lower end during warm and hot months and towards the higher end during colder months.

8 common mistakes people make when using ovens

8 common mistakes people make when using ovens
An oven is an integral part of a kitchen. Whether cooking full-blown meals, comfort food, or pre-packaged microwavable foods, the oven ensures the job is done easily and swiftly. Like all kitchen appliances, the oven also requires occasional maintenance. However, people make several mistakes while preparing food in the oven or cleaning the appliance, which can affect its efficiency and shelf life. Here are some mistakes one should avoid. 1. Relying heavily on the self-cleaning feature Many ovens come with a self-cleaning that makes the cleansing process convenient. However, one must not rely on the feature regularly, as it isn’t a substitute for regular cleaning. It may also not work on ovens that are extensively used. One should always refer to the manufacturer’s instruction manual before using the self-cleaning feature or cleaning the oven. 2. Failing to install surge protectors Thunderstorms or lightning strikes are major risk factors to an electric oven’s operation. One could have a surge protector plugged in during the oven installation to protect it from extreme weather or excess voltage. 3. Overloading the oven While time might be of the essence when preparing multiple meal courses, one should not cook too many things simultaneously. Doing so reduces the overall performance and increases the risk of appliance fires.

Top 6 ways to get a free cell phone

Top 6 ways to get a free cell phone
Mobile phones have become indispensable tools today, helping one communicate, carry out professional tasks, and entertain themselves. However, the advances in mobile phone technology can make newer phones expensive. Nevertheless, there are some ways in which one can get a new mobile phone for free and stay connected to the world. From promotional offers to government programs, here are some of the best ways to find a mobile phone for free: 1. Carrier deals One of the best ways to get a new mobile phone for free is to look for deals offered by phone carriers. Network providers can offer a complimentary phone, provided one switches to that particular carrier. These deals typically do not require one to trade in their old device. However, certain terms and conditions may apply, including making a commitment to the carrier for a specified period. 2. Government programs To those facing financial constraints, the government extends support and offers free mobile phones through programs like Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). Lifeline provides eligible individuals with free or discounted phones and service plans. Here, the eligibility criteria include income level at or below 135% of federal poverty guidelines. Similarly, ACP extends free phones to those with income at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines.

Top 6 mistakes to avoid when trying to get out of debt quickly

Top 6 mistakes to avoid when trying to get out of debt quickly
The road to financial freedom and stability is often laden with obstacles, and making mistakes can hinder this progress. A debt-free life begins with staying accountable to one’s financial goals. Failing to track progress and reassess budgets regularly can lead to complacency. It is essential to be aware of common mistakes, such as the ones mentioned below, and steer clear of them to achieve one’s goal of getting out of debt quickly. 1. Refusing to alter spending habits A common mistake individuals make when trying to repay debt is not altering their spending habits. This is one of the root causes of debt accumulation, which may lead to a cycle of financial strain and hinder progress towards becoming debt-free. To avoid this, one can reassess their budget and cut unnecessary expenses. One can find cheaper alternatives and alter routines in a way that helps save money. For example, one can make food at home and set a budget limit for takeaways or dine-outs, buy ingredients that are easy to store in the refrigerator in bulk, and carpool with friends or family for grocery shopping. Alternatively, one can make a shopping list, stick to it while grocery shopping, and unsubscribe from streaming services that one does not use.

4 handy tips for using food vacuum sealers

4 handy tips for using food vacuum sealers
When it comes to food storage, the importance of food vacuum sealers cannot be overstated. Sealers remove the air around the food, helping keep the food safe and hygienic for long periods. As food is perishable, vacuum sealing can keep air, moisture, dust, and other external elements at bay, increasing the shelf life of food by days, weeks, and even months. So, here are tips for using food vacuum sealers: 1. Freeze meats before sealing Freezing meat can prolong its shelf life. So, when transporting meat, a crucial step to follow is to freeze the meat right before vacuum-sealing it. This helps prevent bacterial growth in the meat when it is being transported. The sealing should be done immediately after the freezing, as many bacteria thrive at room temperature. The combination of freezing and sealing helps make it easier to thaw the food and, by extension, makes meat-based dishes taste fresh and delicious. Following the right order in storing perishable items helps one make the most of vacuum sealers. 2. Cover sharp food edges with wax paper Foods like beef jerky and dehydrated fruits or snacks can be challenging to store due to the thinness of the vacuum bags. They come with sharp edges, which can puncture the thin vacuum bags.

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Expected Black Friday deals on GMC Sierra models

The GMC Sierra is a popular pickup truck, with powerful towing capabilities, modern infotainment features, and a refined engine. It’s available at many dealerships across the country and can be bought at any time. However, it’s recommended to shop for this truck during Black Friday. While this year’s sale hasn’t begun yet, one can get a hint about what deals to expect on different Sierra models based on last year’s offers and current price trends. GMC Sierra 1500 Elevation RWD The rear-wheel-drive Sierra 1500 Elevation has a few useful features. Some of these include automatic climate control, a backup camera for parking assistance, Bluetooth connectivity, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, keyless entry, lane departure warning, fog lights, a customized tow package, and side-impact airbags. Right now, some dealerships in the country are offering cash discounts of $3,500 to $3,700, purchase allowances of $1,500 to $1,800, and bonus cash discounts of $1,700 to $1,800 on the Sierra 1500. During Black Friday, one can expect similar deals on the vehicle. GMC Sierra 1500 Elevation 4WD Like the RWD variant, the all-wheel-drive Sierra 1500 Elevation comes loaded with eye-catching features. It also has a powerful, efficient 2.7-liter engine that produces 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a quick-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission. The truck has a trailer capacity of 8,900 lbs. Currently, some dealerships are offering this model with attractive leasing options. One of the deals includes a 24-month lease for $620 per month. One has only to pay $3,223 at signing, and there’s no security deposit. This deal includes 12,000 miles of travel coverage per year. Anyone looking to get the Sierra 1500 Elevation 4WD can expect similar lease offers for Black Friday. Some dealerships may even offer lower down payments, more attractive installment payments, and steep discounts on this pickup truck.

Types of car rental deals to expect for Black Friday

With the festive season coming up, now’s the time to plan a quick getaway and take advantage of the upcoming holiday sales on bookings, including car rentals. By booking early, travelers can secure great deals and save more. In past years, customers enjoyed huge bargains during the sale period, and similar (or better) car rental deals and offers are expected this shopping season, making advance car rental bookings a smart move. Percentage discounts For many customers, percentage discounts are highly anticipated deals during the holiday shopping season. These car rental discounts typically range anywhere between 15% and 50% off the standard rental rates. However, the exact discount rates generally depend on factors such as the rental company, the time of booking, and the type of vehicle selected. In previous years, rental companies like Hertz and Sixt rolled out offers that had nearly 25% off on select vehicles. Meanwhile, companies like Fox, Dollar, and Avis typically provide discounts of around 20% to 25% during Black Friday events. To enhance the holiday experience for customers, many car rental providers also offer flexible booking options and free cancellation along with their discounted rates. Flat-rate or dollar-off coupons Flat-rate or dollar-off coupons can provide substantial savings on car rentals during the holiday season. Customers receive a fixed amount off their total bill, but these deals typically come with specific conditions. For instance, there may be a minimum spending requirement or a fixed rental duration needed to qualify. In previous years, brands offered discounts ranging from $10 to $25 off on reservations that exceeded a particular total amount. These offers are often available at airport locations by rental companies . Additionally, there may be minimum stay requirements associated with these flat-rate discounts. Customers can easily lower their travel costs during the Black Friday promotions by meeting these requirements.

5 Early Bird Black Friday Deals One Can Get Right Now

Entrepreneurs who want to turn their ideas into full-blown, successful ventures often look for grants to make that happen. As rewarding as applying for a grant can be, many applicants face pitfalls that can diminish their chances of securing funding. Additionally , with many individuals applying for grants , the process has become highly competitive. This also means that aspiring entrepreneurs cannot afford to make mistakes during the application process that could jeopardize their chances of success. Poor research When applying for a grant, one needs to do thorough research on potential lenders, including their priorities and requirements. Applying for grants that are not aligned with the organizational goals, needs, and values should be avoided. As an aspiring entrepreneur, it’s important to steer clear of funding partners with unrealistic or incompatible expectations. Doing adequate research will help increase one’s chances of securing funding. Failing to include supporting documents When one applies for a grant it is important to include supporting evidence to back any business idea. If one is unable to provide the documentation necessary to confirm and validate the proposal, grant reviewers may not consider the application. Not introducing oneself and the venture It is a common mistake to assume that the funder has read about the venture before speaking to the potential entrepreneur. It is essential to introduce oneself and state the organization’s objectives so that the lender is clear about this information. The document should also cover minute details about the organization, how the program promotes the funder’s missions, and the requirements that will be served in the process. Too much-written content An introduction is important, but it is equally vital to stick to the point. Most foundations conduct the proposal process online, which gives one a limitation on how much they can include in the written document.

5 Cyber Monday Mistakes To Avoid This Holiday Season

5 Cyber Monday Mistakes To Avoid This Holiday Season Cyber Monday is when many sales are happening all over the country, and most purchases occur in the electronic market. Every store that sells anything with an electronic gadget or even its accessory is up a sale. Such a time also becomes a time when many buyers end up at a loss for various other reasons. It is a great time of the year for consumers to make the best of the deals offered. Here are tips to help you make the best of the Cyber Monday sales this year: Getting Scammed Cyber Monday is undoubtedly a great time to shop; unfortunately, it is also when many cyber criminals put out their bait. So in these times, paying attention to the websites you visit before placing an order is essential. Make sure that when you click any URL links, any links you click on are from reputable sites, and don’t ask for personal information via email or phone call. If something seems way too good to be true, it probably is! It can be easy to get fooled by images that look like they came from Google or Amazon. Sending funds through the internet can be risky if you don’t know what kind of company or individual you are sending to. Checking out the company’s or individual’s profile on social media and other related websites can prove to be a money saver. Sometimes, this can mean accepting an offer without doing your research, which could lead to fraud. Shopping for the sake of Cyber Monday Cyber Monday is a also a perfect time to get deals on products you know you will love. But before you make any purchases, consider whether or not the item is something that will benefit your life and make it easier for you to accomplish what matters most.

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Volvo XC90 – Features to note before the Black Friday sale

Volvo XC90 – Features to note before the Black Friday sale

The Volvo XC90 is a midsize hybrid SUV that combines everyday practicality with a touch of refinement. This model has a premium feel, thanks to its updated exterior styling and a thoughtfully upgraded cabin. Additionally, the car comes equipped with all-wheel drive across all variants, and its powertrain lineup includes turbocharged engines and a plug-in hybrid option. Those interested in the Volvo XC90 should consider its features to make an informed decision during the Black Friday sale. Pricing The starting price for the 2025 XC90 is set at over $58,000. Going up the trim level means buyers can expect to spend up to $83,000. The lineup has different starting prices for each trim level, with the T8 Ultra Bright Theme, T8 Plus Bright Theme, and T8 Core Bright Theme as the highest-cost models. At the lower end of the lineup’s price spectrum are B5 Core Bright Theme, B5 Plus Bright Theme, and B6 Core Bright Theme. Fuel economy The Volvo XC90 comes with all-wheel drive as standard, regardless of the powertrain. The entry-level models have a 2L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 247 horsepower. The mid-level B6 variants deliver 295 horsepower. The higher T8 models are paired with a plug-in hybrid system, providing an electric range of up to 33 miles and a combined fuel economy of 58 mpg. The base models are known to deliver a combined mileage of 26mpg. According to EPA estimates, the XC90 gets 22mpg in the city and 27mpg on highways. Overall, the combined EPA rating is similar across the lineup, with estimates of 26mpg combined. Performance Drivers can enjoy the Volvo XC90’s precise steering response. The steering wheel provides a featherlight feel, making it easier to maneuver twists and turns. Some models also offer an air suspension option, and the eight-speed automatic transmission, combined with the car’s smooth suspension, ensures a smooth driving experience on different road types.
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5 Black Friday Mistakes To Avoid This Holiday Season

5 Black Friday Mistakes To Avoid This Holiday Season

5 Black Friday Mistakes To Avoid This Holiday Season Black Friday is upon us once again. It’s the day we all try to save a little money, get the best deals, and spend our entire day in stores trying to find one last bargain before the end of November. But many people end up overspending. If a Black Friday bargain has ever ripped you off, these tips will hopefully prevent anyone from becoming a victim too! Spending more than you can afford The foremost thing to do when planning for Black Friday is to set a limit on what you can afford to spend. Anything beyond this should be considered an impulse buy and avoided at all costs. Once you’ve decided how much money you want to spend on Black Friday, it’s crucial to stick with that number and avoid impulse buying. It means avoiding debt and spending more than what’s in your bank account — even if it seems like there isn’t enough left over after paying bills or other expenses such as rent or utilities! Saving all your shopping for Black Friday If you have not allotted a lot of money, this holiday season can be overwhelming. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s easy to do something that will make things even more complicated: save all your shopping for Black Friday! The problem with this particular strategy is that there are so many great deals on Thanksgiving Day and Cyber Monday (the latter being the day after Thanksgiving). All those sales during these days create an opportunity for retailers to buy up their inventory before the weekend starts. It means prices will likely go back down again if you wait until Black Friday or Cyber Monday—and that’s not what we want! Not planning a strategy before you start shopping .
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