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Author Archives: Teri Monroe

Teri Monroe About Teri Monroe

Teri Monroe started her career in communications working for local government and nonprofits. Today, she is a freelance finance and lifestyle writer and small business owner. In her spare time, she loves golfing with her husband, taking her dog Milo on long walks, and playing pickleball with friends.

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The Ultimate Christmas Savings Guide: Spend Less, Celebrate More

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The Ultimate Christmas Savings Guide
The Ultimate Christmas Savings Guide
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It’s easy to stress about money during the holidays, which can take some of the fun out of Christmas. According to The National Retail Federation, holiday spending this year is expected to grow between 2.5% and 3.5% from 2023. This totals around $989 billion in holiday spending. While the numbers are growing nationally, you don’t have to spend more this year. It is possible to focus on savings this Christmas and not put yourself in a precarious financial situation. Let’s take a look at some of the key strategies to help you save money during the holidays this year.

1. Come Up with a Strategy and Budget

Come up with a Christmas savings strategy
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First, for the most Christmas savings come up with a game plan. Decide what your gift-giving philosophy will be. Maybe you will focus on giving fewer presents this holiday but will focus on meaningful gifts. You should have a budget for each family member, friend, or co-worker. Most people spend $20-$50 per friend or colleague and $50-$100 per family member, but this number should work for your budget. There’s no need to spread yourself thin buying gifts. As you shop, make sure to track your spending either with a budgeting app or spreadsheet. Holding yourself accountable will make you less likely to fall for holiday marketing and impulse purchases.

2. Utilize Rebate Apps

One way to rack up Christmas savings is to use cash-back apps like Rakuten. Many banks also offer cash-back deals such as Bank of America. The more cash-back deals you can accrue the more you will save on your purchases.

3. Pay The Right Way

Don’t fall into the trap of charging everything onto a high-interest credit card. Also, beware of deferring payments with Shop Now Pay Later apps. They can often make you spend more and exceed your budget. Instead, opt for a 0% interest credit card or rewards card.

4. Compare Prices

Christmas shopping online
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One way to save money is to shop around before making purchases. It’s usually best to shop online rather than go to the mall where it’s difficult to compare prices. Consider using tools like Google Shopping to get the best price on items. Take your time when making purchases and do your research to get the most Christmas savings possible.

5. Cut Back on Other Spending This Month

If you haven’t been saving for Christmas spending throughout the year, you may need to cut back on other discretionary expenses this month. This may mean eating out less or skipping other non-essential spending. Next year, try putting aside at least $20 a month so that you’ll feel less of a pinch during the holiday season. Then, you can worry less and celebrate more.

6. Shop Off Brand

Is it possible to find similar items at a lower price? Try to find comparable items that don’t have name brands attached to them. For example, many of the items that you can purchase on Amazon have alternatives on sites like Temu for a discounted price. There’s nothing wrong with getting a little scrappy with your shopping to fit it into your budget.

7. Save with Homemade Gifts

Homemade gifts for Christmas savings
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Homemade gifts will not only help you with savings this Christmas but can be especially thoughtful. Is there anyone on your list that you can make cookies for? You can even assemble your own gift baskets instead of paying for a pre-made basket that usually has a high price tag. These can make great gifts for neighbors, teachers, and co-workers. You can even gift acts of service like promising to shovel your neighbor’s driveway or creating a meal train for new parents in your life. These gifts often mean more than things.

8. Shop The Resale Market

Secondhand items can make excellent gifts. Especially if you are shopping for designer items, this can save you a significant amount of money this Christmas. Sites like Poshmark, eBay, and The Real Real all have great deals on quality items, sometimes even new with tags. This will help you stretch your Christmas budget even further.

Focusing on Christmas Savings

Don’t let the noise of the holidays or social pressures make you spend more than you are comfortable with this Christmas. Stick to your budget and use these helpful Christmas savings tips to guide your spending. Come January, you’ll be happy that you didn’t overextend yourself.

How do you save money during the holidays? We would love to hear your thoughts on how you stick to your Christmas budget.

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8 Signs You’ve Found “The One” and Shouldn’t Let Them Go

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Signs You've Met The One
Signs You've Met The One
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Is finding “the one” a real thing? We often hear stories about couples that just knew almost immediately that they would end up with their partner. Is this feeling just overly romanticized? In reality, successful relationships take real work and probably aren’t predestined. Whether you believe in soulmates or not, there are real ways to know if you’re compatible with your partner and if the relationship will make it long-term. Here are eight signs that you’ve found your person and shouldn’t let them go.

1. You Share Values

Couple that shares values
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Key to any relationship’s success is shared values. This doesn’t mean that you have to agree on everything. Some important shared values may be the importance of family, honesty, commitment, finances, and respect. A study conducted at Utah State University found that individuals with two commonly shared values had higher marital satisfaction than those without closely shared values. So, if you share values with your partner they may be the one.

2. You Feel Safe and Supported

When you find the one, it feels like home. Usually, you’ll feel like you’ve known this person for much longer than you have. The connection you share emotionally, intellectually, and physically is very strong. Ultimately, you’re very compatible.

When asked on Reddit how people knew they found “the one,” one user wrote, “It was the comfortability with the other person for me. I could do practically anything around him and I wouldn’t care, and neither would he because we’re just that comfortable with each other.”

3. You Can Be Vulnerable with Each Other

Researcher Brene Brown has spent her career exploring vulnerability. In her TED Talk, The Power of Vulnerability she says, “Vulnerability is uncertainty, risk, and emotional exposure. It’s that unstable feeling we get when we step out of our comfort zone or do something that forces us to loosen control. In fact, vulnerability is the core, the heart, and the center of meaningful human experiences. It’s the first thing I look for in you and the last thing I’m willing to show you.” When you can be vulnerable in your relationship and not worry about shame, it’s likely that you’ve found the one.

4. You Work Through Conflict Together

Being able to openly communicate with each other is essential in any relationship. Especially if you’ve found the one, you’ll be able to resolve disagreements together. This doesn’t mean that you won’t ever fight. Instead, your commitment to each other will help you work through conflict.

One Reddit user wrote, “There’s never been a time, even through our most vicious fights that I felt like he didn’t love me. We’ve never ever ever had a fight on a vacation which is HUGE.”

5. Being in Each Other’s Company Feels Natural

While you both have your own lives, you love being in your partner’s company. This comfortability is a clear sign that you’ve found the one. This feeling doesn’t fade over time and you don’t get bored of each other. Even if you’re just hanging out and watching TV, there’s nowhere else you’d rather be. One person on Reddit described it, “It felt like we had been reunited after a long time apart, even though we had never met before.”

6. You Grow Together

Growing together in your relationship
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Couples who have a growth mindset about their relationship, are the most successful. Over time, if you’ve found the one you will continue to grow with your partner. This means that you’ll continue to pursue relationship and individual goals over time.

7. You Push Each Other

Part of finding the one is having a partner who pushes you to be your best self and vice versa. This goes hand in hand with the last point. If you’ve found the one, their support for your goals is unwavering. You celebrate each other’s achievements and are each other’s biggest source of support and encouragement. In the end, you make each other better.

8. You can Depend on and Trust Each Other

Finding the one you can trust
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Trust is the cornerstone of any relationship. If your relationship isn’t built on trust, then your partner isn’t the one. Think about who you would call in an emergency. If you’ve found the one, then your partner is the first call you would make. This support and trust isn’t one-sided if you’ve found your person.

Knowing When You’ve Found The One

These eight signs can help you determine if you’ve found the one. Once you’ve found your person, then you shouldn’t let them go. No matter what challenges you face, the relationship is worth holding onto. How did you know that you found the one?

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Holiday Gift Exchange Games to Try When You’re Sticking to a Tight Budget

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Affordable Holiday Gift Exchange Game Ideas
Affordable Holiday Gift Exchange Game Ideas
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Almost every Christmas party has a Yankee swap or white elephant grab, but these aren’t the only holiday gift exchange games to choose from. If you’re sticking to a tight budget this year, a lively gift exchange game can amp up the fun, even if the monetary value of the gifts is smaller. With a little creativity, you can create lasting memories for your family and friends beyond extravagant and pricy gifts. Here are seven Christmas holiday gift exchange games that will help you stay on budget.

1. Christmas Price is Right Game

Holiday gift exchange Price is Right
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In this game, players have to guess the correct price of Christmas gifts to earn the first choice of gifts or cash. You can either play this game where one person wins a grand prize at the end, or each correct price guess wins a prize. You’ll need to purchase a few Christmas items for players to guess the prices of and prizes. The Christmas items should be priced at $1-$10. This fun family game can be a great new tradition and will save you money on gifts.

2. Christmas Dice Exchange

Holiday dice gift exchange
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Much like a white elephant exchange, in a Christmas dice exchange, the dice dictate your actions. The rules are simple. Roll a two to pass your gift left. Roll a five to pass your gift right. Roll a seven to swap gifts with anyone in the circle. Play until everyone has rolled at least twice and then open the gifts. Put a spending limit on this game to stick to your budget.

3. Pass The Gift Story Game

Left or right pass the holiday gift exchange
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In this Christmas gift exchange, a narrator reads a story filled with the words left and right. Each time these words are read you have to pass your gift in that direction. The story really keeps you on your toes and adds a fun element to a gift swap. You can either create your own story or find inspiration online.

4. Themed Secret Santa Swap

Secret Santa
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We all know and love Secret Santa, but you can add an additional twist by setting a theme. Gifts could start with a certain letter, or have to be something edible. The crazier the theme the more fun it will be! If you choose names for your Secret Santa gifts, you can add an additional swapping round at the end for extra fun.

5. Christmas Gift Auction

Christmas Gift Auctions
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Each player gets a certain amount of auction bucks to bid on gifts. You can print out your own auction bucks or use Monopoly money. You could even create auction paddles for this game. Gifts go to the highest bidder and it usually gets very competitive for the best gifts. This game is best for bigger groups.

6. Minute to Win It Games

Minute to Win It Games are a hit at any party. For prizes, everyone puts money into a pot for game winners. Game supplies can come from the dollar store, so setup is very affordable. There are several Christmas-themed games that you can incorporate that are entertaining for all ages. Take a look at this video for some ideas.

7. Oven Mitt Unwrap

This fun game features a package that is wrapped with several layers and prizes inside. The twist is that each participant in the game has to unwrap their layer with oven mitts on. If you unwrap a prize during your turn, you get to keep that gift.

Fun Affordable Holiday Gift Exchange Ideas

Holiday Gift Exchange Game Ideas
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By sticking to Christmas gift exchanges instead of individual presents, you can save hundreds of dollars. Plus, you’ll add fun and excitement to your family party. Hopefully, these seven ideas will help to inspire you or help you to create a game of your own.

What’s your favorite gift exchange game to play during the holidays? Have you tried any of the games mentioned here?

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The 7 Best AI Tools for Teachers in 2025

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Teacher in classroom
Teacher in classroom
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AI has the power to transform education, but it also comes with risks. Incorporating tools into your classroom can teach students how to use the technology as a tool to enhance learning, not cut corners. With so much to accomplish as a teacher, AI-powered tools can also improve your productivity and make your life easier. Here we’ll discuss the top AI tools for teachers in 2025 that you might consider incorporating into your classroom.

1. Blooket

Teacher using AI tools to create resources for students
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Blooket is a review and trivia game that teachers can lead for students. Teachers can easily upload questions and build a set or use sets designed by other users. After a game, a detailed score report and question analysis are generated so you know exactly what areas your students need to focus on.

Teachers can use Blooklet for free, but there are some perks to upgrading to a paid account. You get access to exclusive game modes, reports, and access for up to 300 players. This costs $59.88 per year. There is also a Flex Pro option that allows you to pay monthly and cancel whenever at $9.99/month.

2. Brisk Teaching

Teacher giving lecture
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Brisk is an AI teaching assistant that integrates with Google Chrome. According to their website, you can get help with curriculum, feedback, and differentiation within the apps and websites you already use. There are more than 30 timesaving tools including a rubric generator, progress report maker, syllabus generator, and quiz maker. Brisk also has tools for students including Brisk Boost where students can turn any online resource into engaging learning experiences.

There is a free version of Brisk available to teachers. Paid options do provide some more perks, including AI detection and advanced large language models. The Educator Pro account will cost $9.99 per month or $99.99 per year. Custom pricing is also available for schools or districts.

3. Turnitin AI Checker

Teacher grading papers
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Teaching in the world of AI can be challenging, especially if your goal is to uphold academic integrity. If your school has a policy about using AI writing assistants like ChatGPT, Turnitin AI Checker can help you detect the use of AI when grading papers. Both AI writing and paraphrasing detection are available with this tool. If you work in higher education, there is also a tool available to check research.

There is no pricing listed on the Turnitin website, but there are options to contact a sales consultant. So, if you are considering this for your classroom or school, you can reach out to see how much it may cost.

4. Notebook LM

Google Notebook LM will synthesize any documents you give it. Educators often have to pour over resources to create materials for students. This free AI tool can even create a podcast to listen to based on the sources you give it. Imagine how easy lesson planning can become with tools like Notebook LM.

Right now, Google Notebook LM is available free-of-charge.

5. Padlet

Padlet is a great resource for creating a collaborative classroom. If your school doesn’t already have resources like this, Padlet can help you upload documents for your students. You can build boards for visual learners as well. Completely interactive, students can comment on content, vote, and like posts. Padlet will help keep you organized and keep your lessons and assignments all in one place.

You can try Padlet for free, but to really utilize everything it has to offer you’ll need to pay. They have both monthly and annual pricing. Gold level offers up to 20 padlets for $9.99 per month or $69.99 per year. Platinum is a touch more expensive at $14.99 a month and $99.99 per year, but you get unlimited padlets. A classroom subscription will cost $199 per year and provide access for up to 200 students. For the entire school, pricing starts at $1,000 per year for 10 teachers and goes up from there.

6. Diffit

Handout teacher created using AI tools
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Diffit helps teachers create any kind of resource they can imagine. Just enter a topic, question, or theme. Then, you can customize the resource to any grade level, language, and type of reading. The AI tool can also create resources based on YouTube links, documents, or a vocabulary list. There are also featured templates you can choose from.

Diffit is a completely free resource for teachers and it will cost you nothing to create an account.

7. Snorkl

Feedback for students using AI tools
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Snorkl allows teachers to provide real-time feedback for students’ authentic ideas and verbal and visual explanations. Students can record their voice and work on a whiteboard. Generative AI then gives them in-depth feedback. Snorkl is available for subjects including math, history, world languages, science, and language arts. Teachers will receive AI-powered feedback so that they can tailor their lessons to where students may be struggling.

This app is available in a limited capacity for free. You can also pay $1,000 for access for an entire school for the year or $2,000 per district.

Incorporating AI-Powered Tools for Teachers

When used the right way, AI can provide you and your students valuable learning tools. From helping with creating materials for students to facilitating reviews, AI’s possibilities are endless. Being a teacher isn’t an easy job, but each of these tools can help you streamline daily tasks, smoothing out the process.

Have you incorporated any AI tools into your classroom? We’d love to know what has worked for you.

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Banks vs Private Lenders for Commercial Property Loans Australia

Real Reasons Why Your Relationship Is Thriving—Not Just Surviving

Real Reasons Why Your Relationship Is Thriving—Not Just Surviving

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Thriving relationship
Thriving relationship
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Sometimes, relationships hit a plateau where you feel like it’s just surviving and you’re going through the motions. According to the Washington Post, once unmarried couples (30+) pass the one-year mark, the likelihood of a breakup decreases to about 20%. But that doesn’t mean that these relationships are fulfilling. Some couples understand how to make their long-term relationship thrive, not just survive. The real reasons for a thriving relationship are simpler than you think. Here are five key factors that will lead your relationship to thrive.

1. You Understand Each Other’s Love Languages

Understanding partner's love language
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Sometimes how we show love isn’t how another person wishes to receive it. If your relationship is thriving, you know your partner’s love language and act accordingly. For some, it may be acts of service or physical touch, while other people need love through quality time spent together or gifts. Here is a look at the five love languages:

  1. Words of affirmation
  2. Quality time
  3. Gifts
  4. Acts of service
  5. Physical touch

If you’re not sure what your love language is, you can take a quiz online to find out. By speaking each other’s language, your relationship will thrive not just survive.

2. You’re Committed Even Through The Hard Times

Relationship thriving even in the hard times
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Even if you hit a rough patch, you still know that your relationship will make it through the hard times. You and your partner are committed to working through your problems and navigating the trials of life together. Bonds are often strengthened during hard times and you’ll learn how best to support each other. Forbes published an article stating that hard times create some of the strongest bonds and greater happiness. Ultimately, these times force you to rely on each other for support and will create a sense of shared experience. Even if it’s messy, you know that challenges will make your relationship stronger.

3. You Continue to Grow Together

Couple growing together
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Relationships hardly ever stay the same. As time passes, you and your partner will continue to grow as individuals. A recent study found that relationship satisfaction relies heavily on individual-difference predictors like life satisfaction. Additionally, personal growth will help you communicate more effectively, promote mutual understanding, and strengthen your connection with your partner. A thriving relationship means that you can navigate these changes and grow together.

4. You Make an Effort

Relationship thriving by making an effort
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A thriving relationship never gets stale. Even in long-term relationships, couples who are thriving make an effort every day. This might not be in extravagant ways, but in the little things that make your partner feel appreciated and special. According to the results of a study by the Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, effort in a relationship was strongly and positively associated with satisfaction and stability.

5. You’re Better Together

Couple that is better together
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In a thriving relationship, your partner is your best friend. You can’t imagine going through life with anyone else and you enjoy spending time together. Even if you’ve been together for years, you aren’t tired of each other. You may have disagreements, but with open communication, your relationship still thrives. In the end, you always see yourself better off together.

Building a Thriving Relationship

If you’re working on building a thriving relationship not just one that survives, these five things are essential. But if you are struggling with any of these tenets of a strong relationship, maybe it’s time to reevaluate things. Sit down and have an honest conversation with your partner about areas where you see your relationship as lacking. This can help you move forward or decide to call it quits. Either way, you deserve happiness in your relationship. You deserve something that is thriving, not just surviving.

If your relationship is thriving, what are your secrets? Share them in the comments.

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The 4 Gift Rule: The Simple Holiday Hack That’s Saving Families Money

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The 4 Gift Rule
The 4 Gift Rule
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The holidays can easily get out of control with gift-giving. We are wired to spend more during the holidays. At some point, this level of spending becomes expected and the meaning of each gift is lost. According to the National Retail Foundation, Americans spend just under $1,000 on Christmas gifts each year. For many, that’s a week’s salary or more. If you’re looking for a new budget-friendly solution to gift giving this season, there is a hack you need to hear about: the 4 gift rule. Here’s a breakdown of each gift and how it can save your budget this year.

1. Something They Want

Child excited about present they want
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The first gift in the “4 gift rule” is something they want. This is usually the biggest present any person will receive. It will be at the top of your child’s Christmas list or it will be the one thing that someone really asked for that year. Choosing one thing the person wants makes sure that there isn’t an excess of toys. This is especially helpful if you have multiple children. Parents know how quickly Christmas lists can get out of hand and then pile up in your home. It’s reasonable to expect to spend the bulk of your gift-buying budget on this gift.

2. Something They Need

Opening presents using the 4 gift rule
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The second gift focuses on something that they need. These could be things to support their hobby like art supplies, sports equipment, headphones, or a new desk. It doesn’t have to be boring just because it’s more of a necessity for your receiver. Ask each person on your list what they need. For younger children, you may need to decide what this gift should be. To save money on something they need, you can see if it is available on discount sites like Woot or install a browser extension like Honey.

3. Something to Wear

4 gift rule something to wear
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 Next, give your child something to wear. This could include a new coat, basketball shoes for kids, or even a gift card to their favorite clothing store. You can include things like a bike helmet in this category as well. The idea is to gift something that they will wear on a regular basis. Keep an eye out for sales once you know what you’re getting. Many deals this year are even better than Black Friday as we draw closer to Christmas Day.

Some families take this category out and replace it with an experience or somewhere to go. This helps you and your family focus more on creating memories and less on material things. It could be tickets to an amusement park or a play, a camping trip, or a day at the aquarium. Check out Groupon for discounts on experiences your family will love.

4. Something to Read

Reading a book with child
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Putting a focus on reading during the holidays is important, especially for younger children. Getting them excited about books will set the foundation for a lifelong love of reading. You can choose one book for this gift or a series depending on your budget. Another great way to save money on this gift is to visit used bookstores. Some bookstores are dedicated to used titles, while others have a section for secondhand. You also can visit sites online like thriftbooks.com.

Can The 4 Gift Rule Apply to Adults too?

Can the 4 gift rule apply to adults as well? Absolutely! When we shop for family members, it often feels like an obligation. By applying the 4 gift rule, we can hone in on more meaningful gifts. Plus, you’ll probably cut down on shopping time and a lot of wrapping! These 4 gifts might be smaller for family members than what you give to your children. The key is to set a budget for each family member and stick to it.

Of course, you can also tailor the 4 gift rule to meet your family’s needs. Maybe you focus on 3 gifts or change the categories. Have a discussion with your children and other members of your family to decide what works best for everyone (and your wallet).

Why It Works

Why the 4 gift rule works
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The 4 gift rule promotes thoughtful gift-giving and takes some of the stress out of holiday shopping. It will teach your family gratitude and combat the consumerism that often plagues the holidays. This rule also opens up a dialogue between you and your children where you can teach them valuable lessons about consumption, sustainability, and prioritization. It may take a few holidays for your family to get used to this style of gift-giving, but in time it will become a tradition.

How do you handle gift-giving during the holidays? We’d love to hear about your money-saving hacks.

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How to Handle a Denied Health Insurance Claim

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Health insurance denied claim
Health insurance denied claim
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With news of the Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield anesthesia policy change backlash last week, many of us are feeling vulnerable to arbitrary health insurance claim denials. Earlier this week, CNN reported that Blue Cross was going to change its anesthesia policy by putting time limits on coverage. Luckily, the insurance company decided not to move forward with the change. This begs the question though, what do you do if insurance denies your claim? There are ways you can appeal the decision. Here we’ll discuss steps you can take.

1. Find Out Why The Claim Was Denied

Find out why your health insurance claim was denied
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According to ProPublica, the limited government data available suggests that, overall, insurers deny between 10% and 20% of the claims they receive. PBS found that one insurer denied a staggering 80% of claims in 2020. Following the killing of Unite Healthcare’s CEO, shocking claim denials have flooded the internet.

If your claim was denied, first reach out to your insurance company. Have them provide a specific reason for the denial. The Affordable Care Act requires insurers to provide reasons for their denials. You can then use this information to fight the decision. Try not to panic. Most commonly claims are denied for a coding issue or fixable mistake.

2. Keep a Record

Meeting with doctor
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Make sure you keep a log of everyone you speak to, times, and dates when dealing with your insurance company. This information is vital if you file an appeal. Gather all the evidence that you can including medical records and labs and a letter of medical necessity from your doctor.

3. File an Appeal

File an appeal for denied health insurance claim
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Consumers usually file appeals less than 1% of the time. Don’t let your insurance company take advantage of you. First, file an internal appeal with your insurance company. This forces the claim to be reevaluated. Every insurance company has a different process for filing an appeal, so ask how you should start the process.

4. Don’t Give Up

Don't give up on your health insurance claim
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Persistence shows the insurance company that you aren’t giving up on resolving this issue. Don’t be afraid to constantly follow up. Often insurance companies will try to give you the runaround, not return calls, or make you wait for answers. While waiting on hold may feel like a full-time job, don’t give up. If you are having difficulty, a patient advocate may be able to help.

5. Pursue an External Review

Distraught woman
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According to Healthcare.gov, you have 4 months to file for an external review. Your insurance company must accept the decision of the external review. Most states offer external reviews. If not, the Department of Health and Human Services will oversee the review.

Know Your Rights when Fighting an Insurance Claim Denial

Health insurance claim denied know your rights
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Often, when insurance claims get denied the burden of enormous bills is placed on patients without resolution. If you continue to struggle to appeal a denied health insurance claim, you can also consult an attorney. Have you had any health insurance claim nightmares? We would love to hear your story.

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Holiday Travel Gone Wrong: Not-So Hilarious Money Mistakes You Should Avoid

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Holiday Travel Money Failures
Holiday Travel Money Failures
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Holiday travel is stressful and expensive enough. From flight delays to traffic and family drama, many people find themselves dreading the upcoming holidays. Then, add in travel disasters that can cost you more than you were anticipating. In an instant, your budget can be completely blown. Don’t fall for these money mistakes like others have this holiday season.

1. Packing Dilemmas

Packing dilemmas bringing gifts
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Are you flying for the holidays? With all the holiday gifts that you may be traveling with, packing may be tricky. If you plan on bringing perfectly wrapped gifts in your luggage, don’t! TSA has a right to unwrap any packages. Plus, if you don’t weigh your luggage you’ll probably be hit with baggage weight limit overage fees. Even worse, what if your bag gets lost? Buying new presents for the whole family sounds very pricey. Instead, the more prudent course of action is to ship any presents to your destination.

Beyond gifts, many people make the mistake of under-packing for a vacation. Usually, it’s to avoid bag fees on carry-ons or checked bags. Are you headed somewhere tropical this holiday? That doesn’t mean you don’t need a jacket! Check weather reports to make sure you’re packing appropriately. After all, buying a jacket will probably cost you more than the bag fee that you were avoiding. The same is true for toiletries. If you’re staying at a resort, the cost to buy any forgotten items will add up quickly.

2. Forgoing Travel Insurance

travel insurance
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Things happen. From illness to trip delay or lost baggage, travel insurance doesn’t seem necessary until you need it. There are so many horror stories about people traveling without insurance and how insurance saved them thousands of dollars when traveling disasters happened. Especially if you are traveling abroad, insurance is a must and isn’t that expensive in the long run.

3. Choosing The Wrong Accommodations

Holiday travel mistakes choosing the wrong accommodations
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Everyone has must-haves when it comes to booking a hotel. However, if you’re looking to save money you may actually end up spending more in the long run. For example, if you travel to Disney World this holiday you may think you’re saving money by staying at a less expensive hotel. But did you calculate the cost of transportation and parking? In the end, staying on Disney’s property may be the less expensive option. Hidden costs like this can easily blow your budget. Be sure to keep every small cost in mind when you are calculating your expenses.

4. Blindly Following Other People’s Advice

Following blogger's travel advice
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Do you follow travel bloggers and influencers? Don’t let them influence your holiday travel plans. One study found that 78% of Americans admit that influencers have inspired them to visit destinations, attractions, or restaurants that weren’t originally in their plans. Additionally, nearly 6 in 10 have felt misled by travel influencers at least once. One traveler detailed her disappointing experience when an influencer didn’t disclose the logistical hassle and cost of traveling the Amalfi Coast. You could end up spending thousands on itineraries someone else created for you, only to be disappointed. Remember, things posted online are usually romanticized.

5. Booking at The Last Minute

Holiday travel mistakes booking at the last minute
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Booking at the last minute will almost always cost you more money, especially during the holidays. Instead, make sure to track prices over time. A good rule of thumb is to book at least 30 days before your trip if traveling domestically. You can easily set up alerts for when prices are at their lowest with sites like Google Flights and Kayak. If you’ve missed your chance at booking cheap tickets, then you can consider standby flights or flexible arrangements that tend to decrease the price of your trip.

6. ‘Charge It’ Mentality

Charge it holiday travel money mistakes at Walt Disney World
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Just because it’s the holidays doesn’t mean that you should completely avoid your budget. Many people just throw expenses on their credit cards, only to deal with the financial strain later. Destinations like Disney World make this easy. Between park passes, eating at the parks, hotel fees, and souvenirs, things stack up quickly. However, the park has wristbands that you can scan for any purchase you want to make. So, you don’t even realize how much you’re spending until it’s gone. If you really want to combat the “charge it” mentality this holiday season, set spending limits and stick to them. Using cash is the best way to closely monitor how much money you are spending.

Don’t Fall for Holiday Travel Money Mistakes

Costly holiday travel money mistakes
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While the holidays can make us very nostalgic and wire us to spend more. Nevertheless, don’t let yourself blow your budget on holiday travel. In the end, you’ll be happy that you aren’t in over your head with debt.

What’s the worst money mistake you’ve made during the holidays? We’d love to hear from you in the comments.

After You Meet These 6 Goals – It’s Time to Ask for a Raise at Work

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Asking for a raise at work after meeting goals
Asking for a raise at work after meeting goals
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After The Great Resignation of 2021-2022, many workers have not seen a raise in salary. According to ZipRecruiter’s Q3 Job Seeker Confidence Survey, just 27% of workers who stayed with their employer saw a pay increase. In comparison, those who switched jobs saw increases of anywhere from 10% to 20% or more. While times have been tough financially for many companies, inflation has caused many Americans to struggle as well. Employees are left to find jobs with higher salaries, often contributing to worker shortages.

However, according to a Lending Tree survey, 82% of workers who asked for a raise this year received one. So, instead of looking for work elsewhere, you should consider asking for a raise. Here are several goals you should meet before approaching them about your salary. Armed with this data, your employer is less likely to turn you down.

1. You’ve Had Several Positive Performance Reviews

Asking for a raise after a positive performance review
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Timing is everything when asking for a raise. Review season is a good time to ask for a raise if you’ve had a positive performance review. Has it been more than a year since your last raise and have you been performing at or above expectations? If so, asking during your review is appropriate.

2. You’ve Taken on More Responsibility

Taking on more responsibility
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With many companies undergoing mergers and consolidation, employees are taking on larger roles, sometimes with no pay increase. If you have taken on the responsibilities of another role, it may be time to ask for a raise. Furthermore, if your boss has given you a special project or challenged you to take on leadership roles, they may be setting you up for a promotion or raise.

3. You’ve Exceeded Expectations

Meeting KPIs at work
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It’s a good idea to keep track of your major accomplishments throughout the year. This way when you ask for a raise you can provide tangible ways that you exceeded expectations and added value to the company. Utilize Key Performance Indicators (KPI) when you ask for a raise like increased profits for the company due to your work, improvement in systems and processes that increased efficiency, or successful projects you contributed to. This hard data makes it hard for your employer to say no to a raise.

4. You’ve Furthered Your Skills

Continuing education
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Have you recently gained a professional certification or taken continuing education classes? The more education you possess, the more valuable you are to your employer. It’s important to talk to your boss about professional education that could benefit your current role. Lay out a plan for completing this education. Then, you can use your new skills as leverage to ask for a raise.

5. You Have Another Offer on The Table

Getting another job offer before asking for a raise
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Applying pressure to the situation may help you ask for a raise effectively. While you may not have any intention of leaving your current job, it may behoove you to send out your resume and network. Sometimes you need to prove your desirability to get a raise. If you have a strong offer from another company, your current employer may be quick to match it. Be careful with this tactic, you may need to go into a meeting with your supervisor prepared with market salary data to reinforce your need for a raise.

6. Your Colleagues Support You

Peers support you at work ask for a raise
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Are you well respected in your office? Do co-workers look to you for guidance or support? If so, this is a good indicator that you should ask for a raise. When you ask for a raise, you may need to write a statement about why you deserve a raise and the percent increase you are requesting. This is often necessary for your boss to present to superiors. It’s not uncommon to ask for a statement of support from co-workers if you are asking for a raise or even a promotion. Companies reward team players so this will help your case.

How to Ask for a Raise

How to ask for a raise
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Once you’ve met these six goals, it’s time to schedule a meeting with your supervisor. Don’t expect an answer right away as your raise will need approval. If your request is denied, your boss should give you adequate reasons why. If not, it may be time to find another job.

Have you leveraged any of these tactics to negotiate a raise? Let us know how they worked for you in the comments.

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These 10 Beaches Around the U.S. Are Perfect for an Unforgettable Vacation

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9 Places to Visit for an Unforgettable Beach Vacation
9 Places to Visit for an Unforgettable Beach Vacation
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When looking for an unforgettable beach vacation location, there’s no need to travel outside of the country. From island destinations to historic charm, there are many unique destinations right in our own backyard. Whether you are longing for a quiet getaway or want a more vibrant vacation scene, these 10 beach locations around the U.S. are sure to deliver one of your best vacations.

1. Siesta Key Beach Vacation

Siesta Key Unforgettable Beach Vacations
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This Florida barrier island located off the coast of Sarasota has been rated the number one beach in the U.S. by U.S. News. Crystal clear water and white powdery sand beaches in Siesta Key are absolutely breathtaking. You can even find a drum circle taking place on the beach on some days. The best way to stay on Siesta Key is to rent a beachside home for you and your family. There are plenty of things to do on Siesta Key like kayaking, parasailing, or e-bike rentals. If shopping is more your speed, you can take a free trolley to Siesta Key Village.

2. La Jolla

La Jolla San Diego
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A destination for surfers, La Jolla is San Diego California is a popular beach vacation destination. From snorkeling to stand-up paddle boarding, and kayaking there are many outdoor adventures on La Jolla Beach. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve has miles of hiking trails along sandy beaches and coastal bluffs. For golf enthusiasts, the world-renowned Torrey Pines Golf Course has a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean. On a rainy day, the Birch Aquarium is a fun place to bring the family.

3. Cape May

Cape May Unforgettable Beach Vacation
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If you are looking for a charming beach vacation, Cape May, New Jersey has plenty of Victorian history. The beach is lined with stunning bed and breakfasts dating back to the Victorian Era. One hotel, Congress Hall hosted several presidents including  Franklin Pierce, James Buchanan, Ulysses S. Grant, and Benjamin Harrison. Take a horse and carriage tour of the historic streets. If you like ghost stories, there are many tours that detail the haunted inns of Cape May. The Washington Street Mall has unique stores as well. You have to try the fudge at The Original Fudge Kitchen.

4. Key West

Seven Mile Bridge Key West
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Home to the southernmost point in the U.S., Key West, Florida is the perfect spot for an eclectic beach getaway. There is nothing like the bright-colored homes of Key West. Roosters roam the streets and greet the day every morning. Check out Mallory Square for a mix of shops, bars, and performances. Hemmingway’s home and museum are a must-see. Known for its beautiful sunsets, try a sunset cruise while you’re there.

5. Useppa Island

Island beach vacation
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A small island off the coast of Fort Myers, Florida, Useppa is a dreamy spot for a vacation. This private island is 100 acres of serenity, and can only be accessed by boat. Small cottages line the beautiful beaches, each with its own theme. The main Collier Inn has a delicious restaurant as well. The island has an old Florida elegance that makes it an ideal spot for an unforgettable beach vacation.

6. Hilton Head Island Beach Vacation

Hilton Head Island
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Not only does Hilton Head Island, South Carolina have beautiful beaches and resorts, but it has fantastic golf courses as well. It has more golf courses per capita than anywhere else in the country due to the ideal weather. If you enjoy hiking, biking, or bird watching you’ll enjoy your time on Hilton Head Island. It has been reported by eBird that the island has more than 330 species of birds.

7. Assateague Island

Assateague Island
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For horse lovers, Assateague Island is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The barrier island stretching across eastern Maryland and Virginia is famous for its wild horses grazing along its beaches. The island is 37 miles of wildlife refuge where you can also go birdwatching or fish. For a true nature experience, camping is available on the island. During peak season, don’t miss the guided tours and activities led by rangers.

8. Cape Cod

Cape Cod Beach Vacation
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Cape Cod, Massachusetts is comprised of many beach towns all with their own charm. If you’re craving a lobster roll, there is nowhere better to visit. If you’re looking for a unique experience, Cape Cod Lavender Farm in Harwich is a great spot for picking your own lavender. The National Marine Life Center is also a great choice to learn about the center’s rescued sea turtles and Harbor Seals. If you’re looking to unwind, try a wine tasting at Truro Vineyards.

9. Sanibel Island Beach Vacation

Sanibel Island
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Sanibel Island off the coast of Fort Myers, Florida is a taste of vibrant island life. Although devastated by Hurricane Ian, the island is rebuilding and is a beach vacation destination you don’t want to overlook. From beautiful beaches to watersports and golf, Sanibel has a little bit of everything. The National Shell Museum and Aquarium is a fun way to spend the day. Wildlife lovers will enjoy The Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge.

10. Nantucket

Nantucket
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If you want to experience New England, Nantucket is quintessential. During the summer, gorgeous hydrangeas bloom in the gardens of gorgeous cottages. Aside from beautiful beaches, Nantucket has excellent options for shopping and dining. Scenic bike trails and paths can take you to every corner of the island. You can learn about Nantucket’s rich history at the Whaling Museum.

Planning an Unforgettable U.S. Beach Vacation

Planning an unforgettable beach vacation
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With so many destinations to choose from both domestically and abroad, planning the perfect beach vacation location may seem daunting. The good news is, that you don’t have to travel far for a memorable trip. There’s something for everything at these nine stunning U.S. beaches. Next, here are some tips to help you budget for your upcoming beach vacation.

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