Tammie's Take~

Sharing The Best/Worst Of My World and Pittsburgh, Too

You are here: Home / Archives for review

Mistakes That Cost You Major Money When Doing Taxes

Reviews · 

If you have an individual tax identification number, you have to file taxes with the IRS if you have any sort of income. Check out these common mistakes you should avoid when doing your taxes to help save yourself some time and money.

Using the Wrong Identification Number

You’ve had your ITIN number for a while, but you may still get a few of the digits mixed around in your head. Before you send in any official documents, double and triple check that you have included the correct number. Without your ITIN, the IRS may not realize you have paid in the proper taxes. This can lead to audits and other unpleasant experiences.

Omitting Some Income

Are you one of the many taxpayers who thinks you don’t have to claim income if you don’t receive a W2 or 1099 form from the employer? If so, you may be neglecting to pay some taxes without trying to. If you were ever to get audited, you may end up getting fined for this mistake.

Messing Up Your Math

If you fill out a paper form, you have to make sure to do all of the math on your own. Even if you file online, you could still make mathematical errors by entering in a number incorrectly. Using the wrong numbers or doing the math wrong could end up costing you a lot of money down the road.

Using the Wrong Status

When you read through the tax documents, you may notice a few different status options, including the following:

Single
Married
Qualifying Widower

Using the right filing status can ensure you pay in the correct amount of taxes.

Forgetting Credits and Deductions

Credits and deductions work to reduce the amount of taxes you owe. If you forget to use one of the available deductions or credits, you may end up paying in more taxes than you really need to. It may take some time for you to figure out exactly what you are eligible for, but it’s worth it.

Filing taxes isn’t always easy. Get step-by-step help with your W7 form to ensure you start off the filing on the right foot.

How To Make Home Renovations More Affordable

Reviews · 

Image Source

Remodelling your home is likely to be an expensive project, but that doesn’t mean your dreams of a new bathroom or a loft conversion should be put off forever. Here are some tricks to make home renovations more affordable.

Borrow money wisely

Most people take out a loan to cover home renovations, but that doesn’t mean that you should take out any old loan. Try to target lenders that charge as little interest as possible – you’re likely to be paying off this loan for a while and interest charges could add up. Bank loans are some of the best forms of borrowing although they can take several months to process and generally require a very clean credit score. Peer-to-peer lending methods such as Prosper Loans could be another option to consider for saving money on interest – you’ll also get more money more quickly than a bank loan in many cases. Whilst you should never pay the whole amount on credit card, do consider paying a small amount on credit card as it can protect your purchase if things go wrong.  

Shop around for contractors

When choosing local contractors, collect lots of quotes so that you can find the cheapest price. You may even be able to negotiate the price down further. Make sure to also research into a contractor’s reputation so that you know you’re guaranteed a good service – bad online reviews could be a good reason to avoid a company. Be wary that the time of year can sometimes make a difference on renovation costs – prices are often lowest after Christmas aside from insulation projects which are generally cheaper in summer when the demand is low.

Source your own supplies

You can let your contractors buy supplies for you, however by sourcing these yourself you may be able to save money. Sites like Less 2 Build offer some great discounted supplies to choose from. You can also consider reclaimed materials on second-hand sites like Gumtree – you can find everything from cheap countertops to free half-used pots of paint.

Consider going DIY

Taking on the renovation work yourself could save you a lot of money opposed to hiring contractors. It’s possible to find online guides on all kinds of DIY jobs on sites like Youtube and DIY Doctor. That said, you do need to be confident about your ability. Try to avoid complex electrics, gas plumbing or knocking down walls as these jobs can be dangerous (some may even be illegal to carry out without a permit).

Try faux materials

Imitation materials can be great for bringing down costs. There are many artificial materials that can simulate expensive stone materials like marble, granite and quartz. When it comes to wood, you can lower the cost of expensive woods by opting for veneered options. Do your research to ensure that these materials are still durable.

Minimise electrics/plumbing work

Where possible, try to avoid unnecessary electrics or plumbing work, as this will have a significant impact on your renovation costs. If you’re getting a new oven or a new bathtub or any other fixture, keep it in the same location as the previous one to prevent having to relocate piping and electrics. When it comes to making a room brighter, opt for track lighting instead of wiring in lots of individual spot lights.

If your garden Is looking a little dull – try these quick colourful tips!

Reviews · 

Summer is here! But is your garden looking a little, boring? If you’re planning on hosting a few BBQ’s this summer or looking forward to enjoying those long evenings with a glass of something cold and with someone you love, then your garden or outdoor space needs to look the part too!

Read on for some handy tips and ideas of how your garden can burst with colour, just in time for the summer holidays.

Plants & trees

The obvious solution! But having a garden that’s filled with beautiful blooms and striking colours will really make your garden the place to be this summer. We’re thinking Crape Myrtle Trees from The Tree Center, or tubs filled with gorgeous sunflowers that reach up toward the sunshine. Delicately scented roses in varying shades of pink, red and cream and some beautiful honeysuckle to enjoy during the summer evenings. If digging in the ground and planting isn’t your thing, or if you’re renting and don’t want to invest too much of your time or money, then consider filling up some pots with bright flowers instead. Place them around the patio and on either side of your front door – you’re welcoming summer in! And you can take them with you if you plan to move again.

Try not to neglect your grass either! Your garden will look incredible with a deep green, lush looking lawn. Just perfect for sunbathing on and for sitting and eating all those burgers, fresh off the BBQ.

Your garden accessories

If plants aren’t your thing, or the maintenance is putting you off, then don’t worry. You can always add a splash of colour in other ways. You can brighten the mood on your patio with some brightly coloured cushions and throws on the patio furniture. Add some matching candles or tea lights in colourful tealight holders, even your outdoor cups, plates and cutlery can all add a little bit of much needed colour. Ornaments and striking, modern garden furniture are also easy ways to accomplish your colour mission.

Painting

Painting a wall, a bright, bold colour is a quick and instant way to give your outdoor space a lift. It can be done well within an afternoon and you could even get the kids involved and make it a fun summer project that everyone can enjoy! If you’re feeling super adventurous then you could also try and incorporate some decorative tiles.

Your garden furniture

Its been a long winter, and your garden furniture might be looking a little worse for wear. If that’s the case then why not upcycle it? Painting your tired old garden furniture will not only save you money but it’s also an easy way to bring a splash of colour to your patio!

Pots and planters

You’re going to need somewhere to put all those pretty and colourful flowers you’ve chosen, right? You can head to your local plant nursery and pick up some brightly coloured plant pots, or paint the ones you already have!

Age Well With These Life-Loving Tips

Reviews · 

Pexels

No one wants to get any older but, unfortunately, it is something that we can’t ever escape from. There’s no way you can stop the clock from ticking! Getting older is something that most people dread, all because it means they will lose their youth, vitality and good looks. I’m sure you already know that there are ways you can hold onto your looks for a little bit longer, thanks to the likes of Botox and other cosmetic procedures, but that can hardly be described as aging gracefully. In fact, it can be all too easy to become reliant on these kinds of procedures. Before you know it, you might end up looking like a walking Barbie doll! So, if at all possible, it is always best to try and age gracefully.

Don’t forget that your looks shouldn’t be the only focus of aging gracefully, though. There are also a few other practical considerations to take as well, which can help you enjoy a happy and financially independent life later on.

So, ready to age well? These tips that will encourage you to love your life can really help.

Pexels

Think About Retirement

Have you already thought about your retirement? Of course, this point isn’t to do with any anti-aging tips – it is one of the more practical steps that you need to take to help you age! It is crucial that you start saving well in advance for your retirement so that you are in a better position to continue enjoying a comfortable life once you stop working. You will probably already be aware that the best way to do this is to set yourself up with a pension. If you are in full-time employment, then your employer should offer you a workplace pension. It’s also a good idea to find yourself a private one as well so that you have as many savings to dip into as possible.

Consider Your Future Care Options

As well as getting your financial situation all ready for your later years, it’s a good idea to put a few plans in place regarding any care that you might need. Bear in mind that you might get to the point where you are unable to live on your own, so it’s a good idea to have something organized. Otherwise, you might not be able to make the decision for yourself, and might get placed somewhere against your original wishes. Spend some time looking at the likes of McKnight Place and similar care homes so that you know the kinds of options open to you. Once you have an idea of the kind of care you would like to receive after retirement, it’s worth letting all your family know your wishes.

Always Wear Sun Cream

Do you want to try and hold on to your youthful skin a little while longer? If so, the best thing you can do is to always apply sun block. Hopefully, you already apply it on very sunny days when the level of UV is very high. That way, you can reduce your risk of developing skin cancer. That’s not the only reason you should wear plenty of sun cream, though. Blocking all that bright sun from your skin will reduce the development of wrinkles and age lines too. Don’t just reach for the sun block in the summer – be sure to wear it on days that don’t seem that sunny as well. That’s because UV can still be in the atmosphere even when the sun is blocked by clouds. It’s a good idea to find a moisturizer or makeup products that contain SPF and that way, you don’t have to wear any sun cream as well.

Pexels

Use Face Creams That Contain Retinol

One of the best anti-aging tips that I have ever received off anyone is to use face creams and serums that contain some levels of retinol. There has been lots of dermatological research carried out that shows retinol can actually reduce the appearance of very fine age lines and wrinkles. They can also stop them from forming in the first place as well. In fact, many dermatologists believe that retinol is so important in women’s skincare, that most of them should start using it once they hit thirty. That way, they don’t have to be too worried about any wrinkles from developing prematurely. So, if you have recently been thinking about getting some new face creams, it’s worth looking at the label to see if they contain retinol!

Pexels

Get To Know Your Family Doctor

Can you remember when the last time you visited your doctor was? If it was a long time ago or you can’t even remember, then it’s worth booking yourself in for a checkup. This gives your doctor the chance to examine you and speak to you about any unusual symptoms that you might have been experiencing lately. Once you hit middle age, it is crucial that you have an annual check-up. You will find that the more often you go to your doctor, the better relationship you will have with them. You’ll be able to quickly trust them and won’t be too embarrassed about discussing your symptoms. That’s super important when it comes to your health because going to the doctor’s about a symptom early on will give you the best chance of getting an early diagnosis for any potentially dangerous health conditions. And that should improve your chances of a full recovery.

Get Into The Habit Of Walking

It is always necessary to lead an active lifestyle. Not only will this help you maintain a healthy weight loss, but it can also be the best way to bring down your blood pressure and control your blood sugar levels. Don’t worry if you aren’t the fittest person there ever was, and you don’t fancy doing any strenuous exercise or sports. There is a different way to get active – you just need to start incorporating plenty of walking into your daily routine. Walking is a great way to increase your activity. It doesn’t matter if you have no fitness experience, as walking is gentle enough for everyone. Plus, you won’t need to buy any expensive gear or equipment to do it. If you live quite close to your place of work, why not try walking to it? That will save you the long traffic jams or smelly public transport you usually experience on your long commute!

Pexels

Keep Topping Up Your Liquids

Everyone needs to keep on drinking plenty of water, especially in hot weather, but this is a really important point the older you get. As we get older, our body can lose fluids a lot easier than when we are younger. So be sure to keep sipping on water through the day. This will provide you with plenty of energy and it can also reduce any feelings of fatigue and tiredness as the day wears on. Not only that, though, but you need as much water in you as possible to help your skin stay plump and supple. It can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and will also keep bags under your eyes at bay.

Treat Others How You Would Want To Be Treated

Once you get to a certain age, you’ll realize that there is no point in holding grudges. We are all just people after all, and it is much better to try and be civil to people even if we can’t be friendly with them. One good way to help you live like this is to remember that you should treat others how you would want to be treated. You will find that doing so can help you live a happier life too as it won’t be filled with so much anger and bitterness. It also means you won’t be frowning so much, and that’s good for reducing the effect of wrinkles!

Keep An Eye On Your Diet

It’s always important to have a healthy diet, and this is especially the case as we age. Make sure that you don’t touch any processed foods as many of them can actually speed up the aging process. Instead, you need to be filling your diet with lots of healthy whole grains, fresh fruit, and lean proteins. Once you hit middle age, you might want to focus on foods that promote a healthy heart as well.

Pexels

Use Your Brain

Let’s not forget about your brain! The older we get, it often feels like some of our brain functions start to decline, such as our memory and the ability to concentrate. In some worst-case scenarios, these issues can often be the first symptoms of dementia. Many health experts believe that the best way to protect our brain throughout old age is to keep it as active as possible. There are various ways you can do this, but a daily crossword or Sudoku puzzle should help. Learning new skills, such as a second language, can also be a brilliant brain boost!

Make sure you aren’t caught out by the aging process!

How to Support Elderly Parents without Taking Away Their Independence

Reviews · 

If you would like to help your elderly parent without interfering with their life, still making sure that they are safe at home and can manage everyday tasks, there are a couple of ways you can provide support without invading their space. The worst thing you can do is making them to go to a nursing home and lose the freedom and independence their current lifestyle gives them. Below you’ll find a few tips on how to keep them safe, but let them enjoy independent living.

Image via Public Domain Pictures

Day Care and Activities

It is a good idea to give your older relative a chance to socialize, especially if they are living alone. You can sign up for an elderly day care center that will pick them up a couple of days a week and take them out to the local park or community center. Remember that they will need a purpose in life, despite their reduced mobility.

Home Visits

If your older parent can do most of the things alone, but struggles with cooking and cleaning, you can get a home visitor to come and check on them every day. They can do their shopping, get their food cooked, and have a chat, breaking down the long days. A home visitor can also arrange home maintenance jobs and talk to contractors, so your parent will feel safe and doesn’t have to worry about being cheated or forgetting about something. Check out nursing care options from Riddle to find out more about the personalized packages available for elderly people.   

Granny Annex

If you feel like you’d rather keep an eye on your older relative, you can build a prefabricated home for them on your property. They will be independent, but you can simply walk over or send the kids there to check on them. They can stay independent and feel safe knowing that you are only a few minutes away. If you work from home most of the time, you can also save money on nursing and care costs.

Home Modifications

Image via Pixnio

Sometimes mobility aids and security improvements in the home will make a huge difference in older people’s lives. If you want to help them, get the bathroom and kitchen adjusted to their needs. Don’t forget to install warning bells around the house, if they have a health condition that can cause seizures.

Regular Checkups

It is also crucial that your parent gets regular checkups and their health is monitored by medical staff. They can either visit them every week to take their blood pressure and carry out tests, or you will have to visit a specialist department at your local hospital. No matter which option you choose, you need to take responsibility for keeping the appointments.

If you have started worrying about the health and safety of your older parent, you can help them in a way that you don’t take away their independence and purpose in life. Sit down to discuss their options, and be understanding of their needs.