Whether you are a new entrepreneur or a more experienced business owner, taking control of your finances can feel like a part-time job. Some simple tips can help you streamline your time, organize your finances and reduce the stress of business money matters.
1. Keep Your Bills in One Place
When the mail comes, make sure it goes in one place. Misplaced bills can be the cause of unwanted late fees and can damage your credit rating. Whether it's a drawer, a box, or a file, be consistent. Size is also important. If you get a lot of mail, use an area that won't get filled up too quickly.
2. Pay Your Bills on Schedule
Bill paying can be simplified if it's done at scheduled times during the month. Depending on how many bills you receive, you can establish set times each month when none of your bills will be late. If you're paying bills as you receive them, chances are you're spending too much time in front of the checkbook. Although bills may state "Payable Upon Receipt", there's always a grace period. Call the creditor to find out when they need to receive payment before the bill is considered late.
3. Read Your Credit Card Statements
Most people take advantage of low interest credit card offers but never read their statements when paying the bill. Credit cards are notorious for using low interest as bait for new customers then switching to higher rates after a few months. Make a habit of looking at your statement carefully to see what interest rate you are paying each month and if any transaction fees have been applied. If the rate increases or a transaction fee appears on your statement, a simple call to the credit card company can oftentimes be beneficial in resolving the matter. If not, try to switch your money to a more favorable rate.
4. Take Advantage of Automatic Payments
Most banks offer a way to automatically deduct money from your account to pay creditors. In addition, the creditors usually offer a lower interest rate when you sign up for this payment option because they get their money faster and on-time. Consider it as one fewer check to write, envelope to lick and stamp to buy. Just make sure you record the deduction when the automatic payment is scheduled or you run the risk of bouncing other checks.
5. Computerize Your Checkbook
Using a software program is a handy way to organize your finances. Whether it's Quicken(r), Microsoft Money(r) or another package, these easy-to-use programs make bill paying and bank reconciliation a cinch. Computer checks can be ordered almost anywhere and fit right into most printers. Once the checks are printed, all of the information is automatically recorded in your electronic checkbook. Furthermore, many banks have direct downloads into these software packages so when money is deposited or withdrawn, the transaction is entered immediately onto your computer. And, when it comes time to do taxes, it couldn't be easier.
6. Get Overdraft Protection
Most banks have a service where, if you run the risk of bouncing a check, the money will come from another source. For a nominal fee, the bank will link your checking account to either a savings, money market, or credit card so the embarrassment of bouncing a check will be avoided. Call or visit your bank to learn about this convenient feature.
7. Cancel Unused Accounts
Whether it's a credit card or bank account, write a letter requesting that the account is formally closed. Not only will this improve your credit score, it is a useful way to avoid money from being scattered all over the place. Don't let department stores and credit card companies lure you into opening new accounts by offering favorable interest rates and purchase discounts. It's easy for credit to get out of hand by taking advantage of every credit offer that comes your way.
8. Consolidate Your Accounts
If you have several credit card accounts with outstanding balances, try to consolidate them into one. Be careful and check the balance transfer interest rates and one-time fees. Also, make a list of all your open Money Markets, Savings, CDs, IRAs, Mutual Funds, and other accounts to see if any consolidation can be done. Keeping your money in fewer places eliminates all of the guesswork involved and reduces errors.
9. Establish Automatic Savings
Create a link from your checking account into a savings account that will not be touched. This can usually be done through the banks and automatic amounts will be transferred over each month. Most people will not put money into a savings account on a regular basis. They may wait until a large tax refund check arrives or some other event to actually deposit money into savings, retirement or other accounts. If you establish an automatic savings deposit every month, your accounts will begin accumulating money faster than you think.
10. Clean up Your Files
Make sure your paid bills are organized in a filing cabinet. Keep individual files for paid bills. Go through your files at the end of each year and throw out bills and receipts no longer needed for auditing purposes. Contact your local IRS office to see how long records need to be kept for audits. Usually federal tax return audits can be done three years back but cancelled checks may need to be kept for seven. Consult the Internet for auditing and records-keeping procedures for your state or region.
(c) 2005 DebtGuru.com(r). This article may be freely distributed as long as the signature file and active link are included. About the author:Michael G. Peterson is the Vice President of American Credit Foundation, an IRS 501 (c)(3) non-profit consumer credit counseling organization that has assisted thousands of individuals and families with their financial situations through seminars, education, counseling services, and, debt management plans. For more information, and free consumer resources visit http://www.debtguru.com/. Written by: Michael G. Peterson
Monday, October 26, 2009
Friday, October 23, 2009
Want to make more money each month, try these tips and see how much more you can earn.
Instructions
Step 1 First thing is asking your boss for a raise. This could be a way to earn way more money a month than your usually bringing in, and if you need help doing that read my article on "how to ask your boss for a raise".
Step 2 Do things that don't take a lot of your time away, when your not at work like writing online for money, or even posting articles, for example here on ehow to earn you extra income a month.
Step 3 Cut back on things you don't necessarily need that costs money. Make it a point to turn off all lights when they are not being used, cut down on going out to eat, any little things like this that can help in essential save money which lets your earn more a month, profit wise.
Step 4 Sell little collectibles, or things you don't use anymore on ebay, or have a garage sell. This could be another good way to earn substantially more each month.
Step 5 Finally always look around, ask around, and check to see if you can work overtime at your job. There are always family emergencies, and employees getting sick that someone needs to cover. Ask your boss when openings like this come available and if you can get overtime by working them
How to Earn More Money
Despite of the global economic crisis facing the world, you can earn more money, or simple put, multiply your money; you just need to know to do it. Here are some tips that should see you earning more money
Instructions
Step 1 Create extra income. If you have tried to balance your monthly income and still can't find as much money to finance your needs, then its time you try to create new income. If you’re short on say, $1000 each month, ask your self, how can I earn an extra $250 weekly? They are three ways you can multiply your money, 1) find a need and fill it 2) Find a problem and solve it, and 3) find your talent and market it.
Step 2 Put your money to work for you. Now that you find ways to maximize your earnings, now you need to know how to make your money work for you. Learn how to invest your money by talking to knowledgeable financial advisers
Step 3 Start your own business. If you think business is for you and you have being dreaming about being your own boss then maybe this is the time to do. Talk to someone who knows about the business world and also do some research on your own. Any business opportunity you want to venture in make sure that there is a need out there for it. While you’re at it, learn how to market your business and your self.
Step 4 Go online. They are many business opportunity available online that can earn you some extra money each money. But, be sure to check out any business your thinking of investing in,they are alot of scammers on the internet.
How to Earn More with Ebay Selling Tip
Instructions
Step 1 Many people sell products on eBay, but not everybody makes good profits by doing so. If you want to succeed, there are a number of eBay selling tips that can help you maximize your profit-making potential. One tip is to make sure you are using good headlines for your listings. Without a descriptive and attention-grabbing headline, your listings aren’t going to get noticed. This is one of the most important things you need to do, because if your listings don’t get viewed, you won’t make any sales.
Step 2 The second eBay selling tip involves product images. Buyers depend heavily on product images when making purchasing decisions. Especially if you are selling items that are also being offered by numerous other sellers, it’s important to have very good photos (specifically better photos than the other sellers of the same product). Using larger photos, as well as multiple photos, have been proven to increase sales
Step 3 The third eBay selling tip involves your product description. You want to give your potential buyer enough information about the products you are selling so that they feel comfortable making the purchase. Write original copy for your listings, and don’t just copy and paste descriptions from the product’s web site, or from other sellers. Show some personality, and you will better connect with buyers. Also make sure that your product descriptions are accurate, provide enough information, and make sure to clearly note any problems or flaws with the product you are selling.
Step 4 The fourth eBay selling tip involves pricing. In order to make good profits, you are going to have to have your prices set high enough to insure that your profits make your sales efforts worthwhile, while keeping them low enough to actually make sales. You should be doing some research on eBay for the products you are selling, to see what others are selling the items for. You also want to make sure to price accurately for shipping, so that you don’t lose profits by not charging a high enough shipping cost to cover your postage fees for shipping the product. Make sure to offer convenient purchase methods for your customers. PayPal is almost a “must” to offer, because so many buyers use that method.
http://www.ehow.com/how_5400032_earn-ebay-selling-tip.html
Step 1 Many people sell products on eBay, but not everybody makes good profits by doing so. If you want to succeed, there are a number of eBay selling tips that can help you maximize your profit-making potential. One tip is to make sure you are using good headlines for your listings. Without a descriptive and attention-grabbing headline, your listings aren’t going to get noticed. This is one of the most important things you need to do, because if your listings don’t get viewed, you won’t make any sales.
Step 2 The second eBay selling tip involves product images. Buyers depend heavily on product images when making purchasing decisions. Especially if you are selling items that are also being offered by numerous other sellers, it’s important to have very good photos (specifically better photos than the other sellers of the same product). Using larger photos, as well as multiple photos, have been proven to increase sales
Step 3 The third eBay selling tip involves your product description. You want to give your potential buyer enough information about the products you are selling so that they feel comfortable making the purchase. Write original copy for your listings, and don’t just copy and paste descriptions from the product’s web site, or from other sellers. Show some personality, and you will better connect with buyers. Also make sure that your product descriptions are accurate, provide enough information, and make sure to clearly note any problems or flaws with the product you are selling.
Step 4 The fourth eBay selling tip involves pricing. In order to make good profits, you are going to have to have your prices set high enough to insure that your profits make your sales efforts worthwhile, while keeping them low enough to actually make sales. You should be doing some research on eBay for the products you are selling, to see what others are selling the items for. You also want to make sure to price accurately for shipping, so that you don’t lose profits by not charging a high enough shipping cost to cover your postage fees for shipping the product. Make sure to offer convenient purchase methods for your customers. PayPal is almost a “must” to offer, because so many buyers use that method.
http://www.ehow.com/how_5400032_earn-ebay-selling-tip.html
How to Earn More Tips
Make a Lasting Impression
Step 1 Introduce yourself by name.
Step 2 Be friendly, because friendly people get better tips. Give your customers a warm, genuine smile. They'll feel good about you, and you'll enjoy your job more.
Step 3 Anticipate the customer's needs, such as ketchup for their burger or extra napkins for families with kids.
Step 4 Use humor if you're comfortable. Disarm your customers with a little joke if you feel it's appropriate.
Step 5 Treat all of your customers as you would want to be treated. Don't allow personal bias to affect the way you treat your customers.
Step 6 Remember your regular customers. Learn their names if you can. Recalling little details, such as sugar for their coffee or salsa for their scrambled eggs, will make a good impression.
Step 7 Try a few gimmicks to help your customers remember you. Wear something unusual like a fancy pin, write thank-you on the check and include a smiley-face, and give them candy.
Take Orders Like a Pro
Step 1 Repeat the customer's order to make sure you've gotten it just the way she wants it and to help you remember any special requests.
Step 2 Squat next to the table to take the order if you're allowed. Squatting gives you eye contact with the customer.
Step 3 Impress your customers by remembering the order without writing it down
Keep the Customers Happy
Step 1 Check on the order for the customer if the kitchen is slow.
Step 2 Look over each meal as you pick up from the kitchen, and check for accuracy.
Step 3 Fix the kitchen's mistakes before you reach the customer's table with their meals. For example, let the customer know that his steak was accidentally prepared well-done and that a new rare steak is on its way.
Know How to Handle Tough Customers
Step 1 Pay attention to your facial expressions. Don't let it show that you're peeved at the table with the toddler who's spilled three glasses of milk. Put a smile on, do your job extra well, and your patience may be rewarded at the end.
Step 2 Be professional and courteous, no matter the situation. If a customer is becoming upset, your gentle tone may help to calm him down.
Step 3 Know when enough is enough. When a customer picks a fight, harasses you or is extremely rude, step aside and bring in your boss to handle the situation.
Evaluate Your Performance
Step 1 Learn from your low tips, and consider each table a learning experience.
Step 2 Ask yourself whether your service was slow, you may have said something upsetting, ignored a customer's request, or turned the customer off in some other way.
Step 3 Ask a co-worker to tell you where you can improve your service.
Tips & Warnings
Step 1 Introduce yourself by name.
Step 2 Be friendly, because friendly people get better tips. Give your customers a warm, genuine smile. They'll feel good about you, and you'll enjoy your job more.
Step 3 Anticipate the customer's needs, such as ketchup for their burger or extra napkins for families with kids.
Step 4 Use humor if you're comfortable. Disarm your customers with a little joke if you feel it's appropriate.
Step 5 Treat all of your customers as you would want to be treated. Don't allow personal bias to affect the way you treat your customers.
Step 6 Remember your regular customers. Learn their names if you can. Recalling little details, such as sugar for their coffee or salsa for their scrambled eggs, will make a good impression.
Step 7 Try a few gimmicks to help your customers remember you. Wear something unusual like a fancy pin, write thank-you on the check and include a smiley-face, and give them candy.
Take Orders Like a Pro
Step 1 Repeat the customer's order to make sure you've gotten it just the way she wants it and to help you remember any special requests.
Step 2 Squat next to the table to take the order if you're allowed. Squatting gives you eye contact with the customer.
Step 3 Impress your customers by remembering the order without writing it down
Keep the Customers Happy
Step 1 Check on the order for the customer if the kitchen is slow.
Step 2 Look over each meal as you pick up from the kitchen, and check for accuracy.
Step 3 Fix the kitchen's mistakes before you reach the customer's table with their meals. For example, let the customer know that his steak was accidentally prepared well-done and that a new rare steak is on its way.
Know How to Handle Tough Customers
Step 1 Pay attention to your facial expressions. Don't let it show that you're peeved at the table with the toddler who's spilled three glasses of milk. Put a smile on, do your job extra well, and your patience may be rewarded at the end.
Step 2 Be professional and courteous, no matter the situation. If a customer is becoming upset, your gentle tone may help to calm him down.
Step 3 Know when enough is enough. When a customer picks a fight, harasses you or is extremely rude, step aside and bring in your boss to handle the situation.
Evaluate Your Performance
Step 1 Learn from your low tips, and consider each table a learning experience.
Step 2 Ask yourself whether your service was slow, you may have said something upsetting, ignored a customer's request, or turned the customer off in some other way.
Step 3 Ask a co-worker to tell you where you can improve your service.
Tips & Warnings
- Never abandon a table. Whether the customer sees you busy with other tables but ignoring theirs or doesn't see you at all until you bring the bill, this is the No. 1 way to lose a good tip.
- Do not stare at a customer's disability, revealing dress or unusual appearance.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Lava Electro Plasma Lamp - Black
Electro Plasma - Black
You can earn 125 Lava Bucks on this product!
Price: $24.99
Product Details
Electro plasma is a fusion of the classic plasma ball with the timeless shape of a Lava Brand Motion Lamp.Touch the side of the glass and watch the dancing lightning follow your finger. This Electro Plasma lamp features a black base and cap.The Electro Plasma Lamp stands approximately 15" tall and comes with an AC power adapter.
20 Oz. Lava Lamp 2114
20 oz. Pink Lava/Clear Liquid Lava Lamp - Silver
You can earn 77 Lava Bucks on this product!
Price: $15.49
Product Details
The 20 oz. Silver Lava Lamp is slightly smaller than the Silver Streak lava lamp and slightly larger than the Accent lava lamp. View our lava lamp size chart for a comparison of all three lamps. Slip into a state of relaxation as you watch the lava gently and effortlessly defy gravity, as it floats gently to the top, only to gracefully roll to the bottom. These Lava Lamps are available in a variety of soothing colors. The 20 oz. Silver Lava Lamp features a silver base and cap. It is 15" tall and 4" in diameter with a 20 oz. Globe.
20 Oz. Lava Lamp 2108
20 oz. Yellow Lava/Clear Liquid Lava Lamp - Silver
You can earn 77 Lava Bucks on this product!
Price: $15.49
Product Details
The 20 oz. Silver Lava Lamp is slightly smaller than the Silver Streak lava lamp and slightly larger than the Accent lava lamp. View our lava lamp size chart for a comparison of all three lamps. Slip into a state of relaxation as you watch the lava gently and effortlessly defy gravity, as it floats gently to the top, only to gracefully roll to the bottom. These Lava Lamps are available in a variety of soothing colors. The 20 oz. Silver Lava Lamp features a silver base and cap. It is 15" tall and 4" in diameter with a 20 oz. Globe
Lava Grande Lava Lamp 6810
Lava Grande 250 Oz. Red Lava/Clear Liquid Lava Lamp - Silver - Limited Qtys.
You can earn 325 Lava Bucks on this product!
Price: $64.99
The Giant Lava Grande® Lava Lamp is just like other Lava Lamps except for the fact that it's over 2 feet tall! If you have ever seen a standard sized Lava Lamp before, imagine the effect produced with a giant globe that has over 7 times the volume of a standard Lava Lamp. A true engineering marvel. The Lava Grande® Series Lava Lamp features a silver base and cap. It is 27" tall and 8.3" in diameter with a 250 oz. Globe.
San Diego DUI Blood Test Defenses
San Diego DUI Blood Tests may be attacked in your San Diego drunk driving case and/or DMV hearing. Here’s San Diego California DUI attorney Rick Mueller's top tactical illustrations:
- . Fermentation - Increase in BAC by the neoformation of alcohol in blood tube after blood draw and before analysis, as a result of insufficient sodium fluoride preservative or a delay between blood draw and actual analysis.
San Diego area crime laboratories routinely wait a number of days or weeks - before testing blood for alcohol levels. Due to lack of proper funding, these cheaper tubes normally have an insufficient level of sodium fluoride preservative. - Blood clotting or coagulating.
- Hemolysis - In relation to BAC, hemolysis may alter the blood matrix & increase BAC. Hemolysis destroys erythrocytes, causes unreliable ABO/Rh testing. Hemolysis can be caused by intensive shaking of the blood tube and/or presence of hypertonic salts such as Sodium Fluoride.
- Contamination (from an outside source – as a result of swabbing skin, e.g. with Zephiran containing 2% ethyl alcohol).
- Lack of entire chain of custody and/or wrong blood specimen
- Improper blood draw or problem with administration of test.
- Lack of compliance with proper standards or California Code of Regulations, Title 17 (e.g. failure to maintain integrity of sample from collection to storage to analysis to reporting, or failure to mix blood sample with anticoagulant or preservative).
- Unqualified analyst tests the blood.
- A more appropriate prosecution expert fails to testify at trial.
- Blood test report or record not made at or near time of analysis, or method of preparation, source of information or time of preparation report untrustworthy or sufficiently suspect
San Diego DUI Breath Test Defenses
- Failure of San Diego California DUI police to do continuous observation of breath test subject for entire 15 minutes before first breath sample. San Diego Drunk Driving police allows cessation or interruption in continuity of fifteen minute observation of person tested prior to initial blow sample.
(a) San Diego area police officer often improperly attempts to include transportation time as part of required 15 minute observation period. San Diego area breath test given within a few minutes of arrival at breath test location.
(b) Officer required by law to remain in presence of subject and be able to use all of his/her senses (sight, sound and smell) to properly and logically conduct a true observation during the 15 minutes before test
(.c) Observation means a realistic ability to perceive by actually paying attention to subject during the continuous 15 minute period.
(d) San Diego DUI officer who purports to observe while driving fails to tilt mirror in order to be able to see subject in backseat or who fails to stay with subject.
(e) San Diego patrol car has dispatch radio on, emitting noises and interfering with officer’s ability to hear what subject is doing while in the moving vehicle.
(f) San Diego DUI officer goes to the trunk upon arrival at breath test location often to put gun away, or walks around before removing subject from police car, or leaves subject alone at anytime during the 15 minutes before blowing - e.g. use of restroom or telephone, or placed in holding cell or area outside presence of cop.
- At some point during the important 15 minutes before the San Diego DUI breath test, you have a slight burp, belch or regurgitation of gas that is relatively quiet.
- Vomiting, burping, belching or regurgitation of gas within 15 minutes of test, and with no rinsing of mouth, or inadequate deprivation period before retest.
3. You may not be a proper subject for breath testing. You have a physical problem or health limitation
(a). gastric reflux, hiatal hernia or intestinal problem (e.g. Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease, Irritated Bowel Syndrome, or Acid Reflux Syndrome) diagnosed and treated before date of arrest;
(b). dental condition (e.g. gum disease/gingivitis/pockets around roots, dentures or bridgework which may trap mouth alcohol and contaminate a breath machine sample);
or
(c). respiratory problem (e.g. asthma, bronchitis, emphysema or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).
5. Your behavior or actions do not make sense when compared to San Diego DUI breath test results (perhaps also proven by independent witnesses).
6. San Diego DUI breath test room or circuitry has a problem (e.g. Radio Frequency Interference from a cell phone, officer's radio, copy machine or other equipment with surge capabilities) which may cause machine to give artificially high reading; smoking in or near machine; shared power supply with heater or other appliance - must be dedicated "clean" electrical source; or recently painted walls or trim).
7. You have had recent environmental exposure to volatile fumes (lacquer, gasoline, paint, dry cleaning fluids or even 409) which have cumulative reading, causing chemical interference/falsely elevated result.
8. Air bag defenses - "the Tyndall effect" - diffusion of light; propellant exposure; cut lips; lung and airway irritation & fluid build-up from caustic gas propellant.
9. (If available - unlikely in San Diego:) Video tape refutes the high reading, supports sobriety.
10. High test result, yet you never urinate for 3 to 4 hours or more - physiological impossibility.
11. No intent alcohol (e.g. from Nyquil, Vicks Formula 44, lip balms, toothache drops).
12. Food/mint/candy in mouth containing alcohol (e.g. Breath Drops with SD alcohol).
13. Interfering or contaminating substance from something in mouth (e.g. Skoal snuff - wintergreen; Altoids curiously strong mints).
14. Not-in-agreement tests, without follow-up tests to correct [both results must be within 0.02% of each other].
15. San Diego DUI Officer refuses to permit your request for a second, independent test. Denial of blood test - the more reliable target with the more accurate method of analysis.
16. San Diego DUI Officer not trained or marginally trained in accordance with the standards of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations (e.g. not trained in “theory of operation” of machine).
17. San Diego Drunk Driving Officer fails to follow manual or training protocol.
18. Inadequate inspections by machine inspectors (e.g. no linearity proven).
19. San Diego county DUI police report supports sobriety, or lack of investigation of alternative causes.
20. Blood alcohol level is “rising” - level at time of driving lower than time of testing.
21. Breath temperature elevated (e.g. caused by fever, hot tub, sauna, detention in hot sun or back of patrol car in summer, dancing, menstrual cycle, etc.)
22. Breath to blood ratio (averaged at 2100:1) not proven to be your ratio; show how minor error gets multiplied 2100 times; 0.12 = 17/10,000,000th of an ounce. Show you have abnormally low blood/breath conversion ratio through testing and toxicologist.
23. Inherent sampling variability or margin of error (e.g., 0.088 reading - state acknowledges +/- 0.01% precision problem).
24. Blowing pattern irregularity (e.g. blubbering and crying causing artificially high water vapor problem).
25.Strict high protein diet and then introduce carbohydrates, thereby triggering auto-generated alcohol production when ketones are converted to isopropyl alcohol (or the "auto-brewery" syndrome).
26. Diabetes, or are borderline diabetic or are hypoglycemic and consume alcohol in any amount, causing conversion of high acetone levels into isopropyl alcohol.
27. San Diego DUI breath machine operator gets first BAC results, which will not support a .08% per se case, then waits a few more minutes and retests, obtaining a reading above the per se limit.
28. San Diego Drunk Driving Officer gives chemical test admonition, but then goes too far by threatening dire warnings for which there is no factual basis or misstates consequences regarding possible license suspension.
29. San Diego DUI Prosecutor fails to prove that results were obtained within the 3 hour statutorily imposed time (3 hours after driving ended) in order to invoke rebuttable presumption that your BAC was at or over the limit at time of driving.
30. Alcohol was consumed during driving, after driving ended or before San Diego DUI police arrived.
31.San Diego DUI Officer gets fired, indicted, retires, moves away, or dies.
32. San Diego Drunk Driving Officer commits crime (e.g., obstruction of justice or perjury) in an effort to conceal evidence; state cannot proceed, or more often makes an illegal, warrantless stop or arrests you without probable cause
San Diego DUI Lawyer Information
The San Diego County DUI Lawyer Center provides information for those accused of DUI in San Diego County, California and in need of a San Diego DUI Attorney.
Quick Links for DUI Information:
Take My FREE Survey for immediate assistance.
San Diego DUI Lawyer Rick Mueller: Background and Contact Information
Why use San Diego County's Specialist in DUI and DMV Law
To get in touch with a San Diego DUI Lawyer, please click the "Take My FREE Survey" link above.
Rick Mueller is a Top-Rated San Diego DUI Lawyer specializing in Drunk Driving, DUI & DMV Defense, and has over 25 years of experience. Known as the "DMV Guru," Rick Mueller dedicates 100% of his law practice to aggressively defending those accused of driving under the influence of alcohol. As a San Diego DUI Attorney, he has successfully saved the driving privileges of many clients in the past year alone. Complete the important Free San Diego County Drunk Driving Defense Survey (click "Take My Free Survey" above) to find out your best strategy and to protect your driving privileges in California and prevent getting a DUI.
Your San Diego DMV attorney has ONLY 10 CALENDAR DAYS after the DUI arrest to timely contact San Diego's DMV Licensing Operations Division for a DMV hearing to avoid suspension of driving privileges.
The San Diego DUI Lawyer Center Also Provides Resources on:
San Diego DMV / DUI Hearing - The San Diego DUI / DMV hearing for a possible license suspension is like a mini-DUI trial without a jury...
California DUI and DMV Penalties - Criminal (Misdemeanor) Sentences for Driving Under the Influence of alcohol and/or drugs...
Out of State License/Resident & Driving Record - Do you have an out-of-state license the officer did not take? California DMV Order of Suspension...
Military Base DUI - San Diego County Federal Court - If arrested for DUI or drunk driving at Camp Pendleton, Miramar or any military base or naval station...
California DUI Breath Test Defenses - You may not be a proper subject for breath testing. You have a physical problem or health limitation...
California DUI Blood Test Defenses - California DUI Blood Tests may be successfully defended in your drunk driving case and/or DMV action...
DUI FAQs - DMV Administrative Hearings vs. Criminal Court Trials - Q&A
Monday, October 12, 2009
LOS ANGELES CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY
California Criminal Defense Lawyer
Don’t Settle for a Guilty Plea!I am Ready to Go to Trial Seeking a “NOT GUILTY” Verdict
If you or someone you know has been accused, charged, or arrested for a crime and need honest, practical legal advice from a reliable criminal defense attorney, call our Los Angeles, California office toll free at (800) 788-8557 to discuss your options. Your initial consultation is FREE.
Your Criminal Defense Attorney Makes All The DifferenceEvery criminal defense attorney at the Los Angeles Law Office of Stephen G. Rodriguez & Associates focuses exclusively on criminal defense. With over 90 years of combined criminal defense experience, we have a reputation for aggressively representing individuals facing misdemeanor or felony charges. Our ability to analyze and evaluate cases, prepare strong defenses and obtain favorable outcomes is well known. Do not settle for a guilty plea; being charged and convicted of a crime can lead to job loss, a criminal record and jail time.
Here’s why we are the right California Criminal Defense Attorneys for you:
You can call us anytime and we will return your call within 48 hours.We will give you a free initial consultation and figure out what action should be taken.
No case is too big or too small?—we handle criminal cases ranging from simple misdemeanors to serious felonies.
We will attempt to get you out of jail without posting bail or alternatively, we will argue for a bail reduction.
We will not “dump” your case on the 1st or 2nd court appearance by entering a “guilty” or “no contest” plea. Many California criminal attorneys who charge low fees plead their clients out on the 1st or 2nd court appearance.
We will attempt to have your case dismissed prior to charges being filed or alternatively, if the case is filed we will attempt to reduce the charges.
If your case goes to trial, we will seek a “Not Guilty” verdict—a criminal defense lawyer who is willing and prepared for trial often obtains a better result than a lawyer who simply “negotiates pleas.”
We will keep you informed at all times regarding your case.
We will guide you through the confusing processes of the criminal justice system.
We will attempt to keep you out of jail by seeking sentencing alternatives such as house arrest / electronic monitoring, Community Service, and/or drug rehabilitation and counseling.
We will provide aggressive defense representation from start to finish.
Felony or misdemeanor charges must be addressed promptly and aggressively by an experienced, skilled criminal defense lawyer who understands California law and knows the criminal justice system. Let the criminal defense attorneys of Stephen G. Rodriguez & Associates put their many years of experience to work for you to secure a favorable resolution of your case.
Under California law YOU HAVE RIGHTS! We are here to guarantee they are fully protected. Call us to discuss your legal matter.
http://www.lacriminaldefenseattorney.com/
Don’t Settle for a Guilty Plea!I am Ready to Go to Trial Seeking a “NOT GUILTY” Verdict
If you or someone you know has been accused, charged, or arrested for a crime and need honest, practical legal advice from a reliable criminal defense attorney, call our Los Angeles, California office toll free at (800) 788-8557 to discuss your options. Your initial consultation is FREE.
Your Criminal Defense Attorney Makes All The DifferenceEvery criminal defense attorney at the Los Angeles Law Office of Stephen G. Rodriguez & Associates focuses exclusively on criminal defense. With over 90 years of combined criminal defense experience, we have a reputation for aggressively representing individuals facing misdemeanor or felony charges. Our ability to analyze and evaluate cases, prepare strong defenses and obtain favorable outcomes is well known. Do not settle for a guilty plea; being charged and convicted of a crime can lead to job loss, a criminal record and jail time.
Here’s why we are the right California Criminal Defense Attorneys for you:
You can call us anytime and we will return your call within 48 hours.We will give you a free initial consultation and figure out what action should be taken.
No case is too big or too small?—we handle criminal cases ranging from simple misdemeanors to serious felonies.
We will attempt to get you out of jail without posting bail or alternatively, we will argue for a bail reduction.
We will not “dump” your case on the 1st or 2nd court appearance by entering a “guilty” or “no contest” plea. Many California criminal attorneys who charge low fees plead their clients out on the 1st or 2nd court appearance.
We will attempt to have your case dismissed prior to charges being filed or alternatively, if the case is filed we will attempt to reduce the charges.
If your case goes to trial, we will seek a “Not Guilty” verdict—a criminal defense lawyer who is willing and prepared for trial often obtains a better result than a lawyer who simply “negotiates pleas.”
We will keep you informed at all times regarding your case.
We will guide you through the confusing processes of the criminal justice system.
We will attempt to keep you out of jail by seeking sentencing alternatives such as house arrest / electronic monitoring, Community Service, and/or drug rehabilitation and counseling.
We will provide aggressive defense representation from start to finish.
Felony or misdemeanor charges must be addressed promptly and aggressively by an experienced, skilled criminal defense lawyer who understands California law and knows the criminal justice system. Let the criminal defense attorneys of Stephen G. Rodriguez & Associates put their many years of experience to work for you to secure a favorable resolution of your case.
Under California law YOU HAVE RIGHTS! We are here to guarantee they are fully protected. Call us to discuss your legal matter.
http://www.lacriminaldefenseattorney.com/
Beyond Financial Aid
Securing financial aid is just one of many important milestones you'll face in your college career. This section offers additional college-related information to help you make smart decisions along the way:
Making It Count: Monster offers free student aid and college planning seminars for parents through Making It Count.
College Selection: Choosing the right school can be a challenge; these resources will help you find the school that meets your needs.
Online College Degrees: Online degree and distance learning programs provide an alternative to more traditional brick and mortar colleges and universities.
Jobs and Internships: What good is a college education if it doesn't land you a job? Find lots of helpful free advice about discovering the right job for your skills in this section.
Volunteering: By volunteering you can help serve your community, gain experience and maybe even win scholarships. There is nothing more fulfilling than helping others in need.
Tuition Refund Insurance: Provides insurance coverage to refund tuition in case the student has to withdraw for illness, injury, death or other reasons.
FastWeb Shop: An online store for all your college and dorm room essentials, plus gadgets, electronics, textbooks and school supplies, powered by Amazon.
http://www.finaid.org/beyond/
Making It Count: Monster offers free student aid and college planning seminars for parents through Making It Count.
College Selection: Choosing the right school can be a challenge; these resources will help you find the school that meets your needs.
Online College Degrees: Online degree and distance learning programs provide an alternative to more traditional brick and mortar colleges and universities.
Jobs and Internships: What good is a college education if it doesn't land you a job? Find lots of helpful free advice about discovering the right job for your skills in this section.
Volunteering: By volunteering you can help serve your community, gain experience and maybe even win scholarships. There is nothing more fulfilling than helping others in need.
Tuition Refund Insurance: Provides insurance coverage to refund tuition in case the student has to withdraw for illness, injury, death or other reasons.
FastWeb Shop: An online store for all your college and dorm room essentials, plus gadgets, electronics, textbooks and school supplies, powered by Amazon.
http://www.finaid.org/beyond/
Financial Aid Applications
You should apply for aid every year, even if you think you don't qualify. There are many factors affecting eligibility for financial aid. For example, a student who didn't qualify one year might become eligible during the next year when a brother or sister enrolls in college. A change in family financial circumstances might affect your eligibility for student aid.
To apply for student financial aid from the federal government, including the Pell Grant, Perkins Loan, Stafford Loan and work-study, you will need to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). There is no charge for submitting this form. The FAFSA is also required by all state and many school student assistance programs.
Some private colleges and universities will require one or more supplemental forms to obtain information not included on the FAFSA. They may have their own forms or they may ask you to complete the College Board's CSS PROFILE form.
Watch the Five-Minute FAFSA Video for a quick introduction to the FAFSA.
Before you begin, you should review important information about the deadlines (including the strange business about not submitting the FAFSA form before January 1) and gather together all the documents you'll need to complete the form. The IRS Form/FAFSA Map will show you which lines of your income tax returns correspond to each line of the FAFSA.
February isFinancial AidAwareness Month!
Then read our sections relating to the FAFSA and/or CSS PROFILE forms. You should also read our section on Help Completing the FAFSA and our list of Common Errors on Financial Aid Applications. You will find our Title IV School Code Database helpful, since it contains the magic numbers you'll need to identify the schools to which you are applying. We also review what happens after you submit the FAFSA, in the section about the Student Aid Report (SAR) and Expected Family Contribution (EFC).
You will later receive financial aid award letters from the colleges, listing the amount and types of financial aid in your financial aid package. These award letters can sometimes be difficult to decode.
If you're wondering whether you count as a dependent or independent student for financial aid purposes, see FinAid's dependency status form.
If you want to get an early estimate of what the government thinks you can afford to pay for your education, try FinAid's Financial Aid Estimation Form. It lets you play what-if games, to give you an idea how changes in income and assets affect the expected family contribution. FinAid also has a variety of other EFC calculators such as the QuickEFC calculator which provides an approximation of the EFC with one tenth the questions. We also have tips on how to legally maximize your eligibility for need-based financial aid by careful financial planning. See also information about the new small business exclusion.
Veterans should read the section concerning Veterans and the FAFSA for information about the student aid treatment of veterans education benefits and the definition of a veteran for student aid purposes.
To apply for student financial aid from the federal government, including the Pell Grant, Perkins Loan, Stafford Loan and work-study, you will need to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). There is no charge for submitting this form. The FAFSA is also required by all state and many school student assistance programs.
Some private colleges and universities will require one or more supplemental forms to obtain information not included on the FAFSA. They may have their own forms or they may ask you to complete the College Board's CSS PROFILE form.
Watch the Five-Minute FAFSA Video for a quick introduction to the FAFSA.
Before you begin, you should review important information about the deadlines (including the strange business about not submitting the FAFSA form before January 1) and gather together all the documents you'll need to complete the form. The IRS Form/FAFSA Map will show you which lines of your income tax returns correspond to each line of the FAFSA.
February isFinancial AidAwareness Month!
Then read our sections relating to the FAFSA and/or CSS PROFILE forms. You should also read our section on Help Completing the FAFSA and our list of Common Errors on Financial Aid Applications. You will find our Title IV School Code Database helpful, since it contains the magic numbers you'll need to identify the schools to which you are applying. We also review what happens after you submit the FAFSA, in the section about the Student Aid Report (SAR) and Expected Family Contribution (EFC).
You will later receive financial aid award letters from the colleges, listing the amount and types of financial aid in your financial aid package. These award letters can sometimes be difficult to decode.
If you're wondering whether you count as a dependent or independent student for financial aid purposes, see FinAid's dependency status form.
If you want to get an early estimate of what the government thinks you can afford to pay for your education, try FinAid's Financial Aid Estimation Form. It lets you play what-if games, to give you an idea how changes in income and assets affect the expected family contribution. FinAid also has a variety of other EFC calculators such as the QuickEFC calculator which provides an approximation of the EFC with one tenth the questions. We also have tips on how to legally maximize your eligibility for need-based financial aid by careful financial planning. See also information about the new small business exclusion.
Veterans should read the section concerning Veterans and the FAFSA for information about the student aid treatment of veterans education benefits and the definition of a veteran for student aid purposes.
In addition to the primary sources of financial aid (loans and scholarships), other kinds of aid are available to many students. These other types of aid fall into eight broad categories:
Free Scholarship Lotteries
Federal and State Government Aid
College-Controlled Aid
Student Profile-Based Aid
Aid for Graduate and Professional School
Aid for Elementary and Secondary School
Aid for Specific Activities
Innovative Programs
Free Scholarship Lotteries
Scholarship LotteriesSeveral sites have started giving away scholarships to attract traffic. Look here for a list of the largest free scholarship lotteries.
Federal and State Government Aid
US Federal Government AidHere you'll find information about the various forms of aid available from the federal government.
US State Government AidLook here for pointers to state aid programs and residency requirements for in-state tuition.
Section 529 Plans: Prepaid Tuition Plans and College Savings PlansSection 529 plans are state-sponsored college savings programs. The two major types are Prepaid Tuition Plans, which lock in current tuition rates, and State College Savings Plans, which offer more flexible investing options. Both are useful ways for families to save for their children's college education.
Scholarships for Volunteering and Community ServiceVolunteering can not only help the disadvantaged, but it can provide money for your college education. Learn about the National Service Scholarships Program, AmeriCorps, and other awards for community service.
Military AidAid resources for veterans and their dependents and for students interested in pursuing careers in the military.
Education Tax BenefitsInformation about the Hope Scholarship and Lifetime Learning tax credits, the deduction for student loan interest, tax treatment of employer education assistance, and other tax benefits for education.
Employer Tuition AssistanceInformation about employer education assistance, including the $5,250 exclusion from income, employer-sponsored scholarships and surveys and statistics concerning employer tuition assistance.
College-Controlled Aid
School Financial Aid Office Web SitesLook here for information about your school's financial aid policies and procedures, including application deadlines.
Tuition Payment PlansTuition payment plans are short-term installment plans that split your tuition into equal monthly payments.
School-Specific Scholarships and FellowshipsScholarship and fellowship programs offered only at specific schools, including college-controlled merit scholarships.
College PartnershipsPartnerships between certain community colleges and four-year colleges make it easier for students to transfer from a community college into a four-year college. Studying for two years at a community college can save the student a significant amount of money.
Student Profile-Based Aid
International StudentsSources of financial aid and other useful information for foreign nationals studying in the US.
Canadian StudentsScholarships, loans and other sources of aid for Canadian students, in both Canada and the US.
Students with DisabilitiesResources specific to students with disabilities.
Female StudentsScholarships, grants and other awards intended specifically for female students.
Minority StudentsScholarships, award programs and advice specifically for members of ethnic minorities.
Older and Nontraditional StudentsFinancial aid information for students age 30 and older.
Jewish StudentsFinancial aid information for Jewish students.
Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgendered StudentsNational, regional and school-specific scholarships for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered students.
Undocumented Students and Illegal AliensFinancial aid and scholarships for undocumented students and illegal aliens.
Ayuda Financiera del Estudiante en EspanolFinancial aid information and resources in Spanish.
Cancer ScholarshipsScholarships for cancer patients, cancer survivors, children of a cancer patient or survivor, students who lost a parent to cancer, and students pursuing careers in cancer treatment.
Prestigious Scholarships and FellowshipsA list of the most prestigious, competitive and lucrative scholarships and fellowships.
Aid for Graduate and Professional School
Graduate SchoolOptions and tips for funding a postgraduate education.
Business SchoolAwards and advice specific to MBA students.
Law SchoolAwards and advice specific to law students.
Medical SchoolAwards, professional organizations and other resources specific to medical students.
Aid for Elementary and Secondary School
Private Elementary and Secondary SchoolsFinancial aid available to parents of children attending private elementary or secondary schools.
Aid for Specific Activities
ContestsSome groups, particularly professional organizations, hold contests that offer cash and other prizes.
Domestic Exchange and Study Abroad ProgramsA variety of loans, scholarships, grants and tuition-reduction options are available for students studying abroad, or participating in domestic exchange programs.
GrantsGrants are a form of financial aid, based on need, which you do not have to repay. Numerous private organizations and government agencies offer grants to students in all fields.
Sports Scholarships, Athletic Scholarships and Financial Aid for Student AthletesInformation about sports scholarships and other resources for the student-athlete.
Specific Majors or Courses of StudyScholarships and awards available to students pursuing specific majors, such as computer science, engineering, journalism, nursing, etc.
Innovative Programs
Student Sponsorships and Education InvestmentsPrivate benefactors and investors provide students with funding for their education in exchange for a fixed percentage of the student's future income for a fixed number of years. Many students find these as an attractive alternative to loans.
Early Awareness InitiativesEarly awareness initiatives try to increase the number of students pursuing a college education by encouraging them to consider college as a real possibility when they are young. Many lower-income children give up on college when they are very young, as early as the first or second grade. By the time they reach high school and change their minds, they often lack the necessary preparation. Early awareness programs try to stop pipeline leakage when the students are young by encouraging them to aspire to and plan for college. This increases the number of students pursuing challenging courses, the number of students graduating from high school, and the number of students matriculating in college.
Free Scholarship Lotteries
Federal and State Government Aid
College-Controlled Aid
Student Profile-Based Aid
Aid for Graduate and Professional School
Aid for Elementary and Secondary School
Aid for Specific Activities
Innovative Programs
Free Scholarship Lotteries
Scholarship LotteriesSeveral sites have started giving away scholarships to attract traffic. Look here for a list of the largest free scholarship lotteries.
Federal and State Government Aid
US Federal Government AidHere you'll find information about the various forms of aid available from the federal government.
US State Government AidLook here for pointers to state aid programs and residency requirements for in-state tuition.
Section 529 Plans: Prepaid Tuition Plans and College Savings PlansSection 529 plans are state-sponsored college savings programs. The two major types are Prepaid Tuition Plans, which lock in current tuition rates, and State College Savings Plans, which offer more flexible investing options. Both are useful ways for families to save for their children's college education.
Scholarships for Volunteering and Community ServiceVolunteering can not only help the disadvantaged, but it can provide money for your college education. Learn about the National Service Scholarships Program, AmeriCorps, and other awards for community service.
Military AidAid resources for veterans and their dependents and for students interested in pursuing careers in the military.
Education Tax BenefitsInformation about the Hope Scholarship and Lifetime Learning tax credits, the deduction for student loan interest, tax treatment of employer education assistance, and other tax benefits for education.
Employer Tuition AssistanceInformation about employer education assistance, including the $5,250 exclusion from income, employer-sponsored scholarships and surveys and statistics concerning employer tuition assistance.
College-Controlled Aid
School Financial Aid Office Web SitesLook here for information about your school's financial aid policies and procedures, including application deadlines.
Tuition Payment PlansTuition payment plans are short-term installment plans that split your tuition into equal monthly payments.
School-Specific Scholarships and FellowshipsScholarship and fellowship programs offered only at specific schools, including college-controlled merit scholarships.
College PartnershipsPartnerships between certain community colleges and four-year colleges make it easier for students to transfer from a community college into a four-year college. Studying for two years at a community college can save the student a significant amount of money.
Student Profile-Based Aid
International StudentsSources of financial aid and other useful information for foreign nationals studying in the US.
Canadian StudentsScholarships, loans and other sources of aid for Canadian students, in both Canada and the US.
Students with DisabilitiesResources specific to students with disabilities.
Female StudentsScholarships, grants and other awards intended specifically for female students.
Minority StudentsScholarships, award programs and advice specifically for members of ethnic minorities.
Older and Nontraditional StudentsFinancial aid information for students age 30 and older.
Jewish StudentsFinancial aid information for Jewish students.
Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgendered StudentsNational, regional and school-specific scholarships for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered students.
Undocumented Students and Illegal AliensFinancial aid and scholarships for undocumented students and illegal aliens.
Ayuda Financiera del Estudiante en EspanolFinancial aid information and resources in Spanish.
Cancer ScholarshipsScholarships for cancer patients, cancer survivors, children of a cancer patient or survivor, students who lost a parent to cancer, and students pursuing careers in cancer treatment.
Prestigious Scholarships and FellowshipsA list of the most prestigious, competitive and lucrative scholarships and fellowships.
Aid for Graduate and Professional School
Graduate SchoolOptions and tips for funding a postgraduate education.
Business SchoolAwards and advice specific to MBA students.
Law SchoolAwards and advice specific to law students.
Medical SchoolAwards, professional organizations and other resources specific to medical students.
Aid for Elementary and Secondary School
Private Elementary and Secondary SchoolsFinancial aid available to parents of children attending private elementary or secondary schools.
Aid for Specific Activities
ContestsSome groups, particularly professional organizations, hold contests that offer cash and other prizes.
Domestic Exchange and Study Abroad ProgramsA variety of loans, scholarships, grants and tuition-reduction options are available for students studying abroad, or participating in domestic exchange programs.
GrantsGrants are a form of financial aid, based on need, which you do not have to repay. Numerous private organizations and government agencies offer grants to students in all fields.
Sports Scholarships, Athletic Scholarships and Financial Aid for Student AthletesInformation about sports scholarships and other resources for the student-athlete.
Specific Majors or Courses of StudyScholarships and awards available to students pursuing specific majors, such as computer science, engineering, journalism, nursing, etc.
Innovative Programs
Student Sponsorships and Education InvestmentsPrivate benefactors and investors provide students with funding for their education in exchange for a fixed percentage of the student's future income for a fixed number of years. Many students find these as an attractive alternative to loans.
Early Awareness InitiativesEarly awareness initiatives try to increase the number of students pursuing a college education by encouraging them to consider college as a real possibility when they are young. Many lower-income children give up on college when they are very young, as early as the first or second grade. By the time they reach high school and change their minds, they often lack the necessary preparation. Early awareness programs try to stop pipeline leakage when the students are young by encouraging them to aspire to and plan for college. This increases the number of students pursuing challenging courses, the number of students graduating from high school, and the number of students matriculating in college.
Military Student Aid
This section of FinAid provides information about student financial aid resources for students who are interested in pursuing careers in the military and for veterans and their dependents. This information is intended primarily for US citizens.
Free Military Education and Career Resources
Military student aid, such as the Montgomery GI Bill, is the main reason many people enlist in the armed forces. However, GI Bill benefits cover only about three-fifths of the average cost of a college education, and about a third of eligible veterans fail to use their benefits.
US Armed Forces Recruiting Programs
Financial Aid for Veterans and their Dependents
Veterans and the FAFSA
HEROES Act of 2003
Books about Military Scholarships and Financial Aid for Veterans
Additional information can be found in the Education section of the Military.com web site. The FastWeb scholarship search includes many scholarships for veterans and their dependents
Free Military Education and Career Resources
Military student aid, such as the Montgomery GI Bill, is the main reason many people enlist in the armed forces. However, GI Bill benefits cover only about three-fifths of the average cost of a college education, and about a third of eligible veterans fail to use their benefits.
US Armed Forces Recruiting Programs
Financial Aid for Veterans and their Dependents
Veterans and the FAFSA
HEROES Act of 2003
Books about Military Scholarships and Financial Aid for Veterans
Additional information can be found in the Education section of the Military.com web site. The FastWeb scholarship search includes many scholarships for veterans and their dependents
Saving for College
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the tuition component of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased by 8% per year, on average, from 1979 to 2001. This means that children born today will face college costs that are 3 to 4 times current prices by the time they matriculate.
Parents should expect to pay at least half to two-thirds of their children's college costs through a combination of savings, current income, and loans. Gift aid from the government, the colleges and universities, and private scholarships accounts for only about a third of total college costs.
Accordingly, it is very important that parents start saving for their children's education as soon as possible, even as early as the day the child is born. Time is one of your most valuable assets. The sooner you start saving for college, the more time your money will have to grow.
September isNational College Savings Month!
If you start saving early enough, even a modest weekly or monthly investment can grow to a significant college fund by the time the child matriculates. For example, saving $50 a month from birth would yield about $20,000 by the time the child turns 17, assuming a 7% return on investment. Saving $200 a month would yield almost $80,000.
It is less expensive to save for college than to borrow. Either way, you're setting aside a portion of your income to pay for college. But when you save, the money earns interest, while when you borrow, you're paying the interest. Paying for college before your child matriculates definitely costs much less than paying for college afterward. Saving $200 a month for ten years at 7% interest would yield $34,818.89. Borrowing the same amount at 6.8% interest with a ten year term would require payments of $400.70 a month. At 8.5% interest the payments increase to $431.70 a month. (If your return on investment is 4% instead of 7%, you'd accumulate $29,548.13. Borrowing this amount at 6.8% interest would entail monthly payments of $340.04; at 8.5% interest the monthly payments would be $366.35. If your return on investment is 10%, you'd accumulate $41,310.40, corresponding to monthly payments of $475.40 at 6.8% and $512.19 at 8.5%.) So if you elect to borrow instead of saving, you will be paying 1.7 to 2.6 times as much per month.
Even if college is just a year or two away, it is never too late to start saving. There are tax benefits to saving in a section 529 college savings plan or prepaid tuition plan, and every dollar you save is a dollar less you'll need to borrow.
This section of FinAid discusses methods of saving for college. It starts with advice on deciding how much to save and tips on making saving easier. It also discusses common myths about saving, the best investment strategies, and the financial aid impact. There are also several college savings calculators and other useful tools. This section also provides information about the advantages and disadvantages of the most common college savings vehicles, identifying section 529 college savings plans as the best. It also discusses credit card rebate and loyalty programs that help you save for college by rebating a portion of your purchases to your college savings fund.
For a basic overview of saving for college, see FastWeb's Introduction to Saving for College.
Topics about saving in general include:
Setting Savings Goals. How much should you save?
Myths About Saving. Three wrong reasons parents use to avoid saving.
Tips for Making It Easier to Save. These tips will help you find the money to save.
Account Ownership: In Whose Name to Save? This includes information about the financial aid impact of account ownership, such as the very high negative impact of saving in the child's name. A separate page provides additional information about the financial aid treatment of trust funds.
Tax Savings from Child Asset Ownership.
Gift and Estate Taxes. This summarizes the gift tax provisions to the extent they affect saving for college.
Investment Strategies. These tips will help you maximize your return on investment while minimizing your risk.
Prioritizing Savings. Should you save for college or for retirement?
College Savings Calculators. These tools can help you evaluate the impact of different decisions about college savings.
Tuition Inflation. This includes information about historical average annual increases in college tuition rates.
Education Tax Benefit Coordination. This describes coordination restrictions on using tax-free distributions from 529 plans and education savings accounts in conjunction with other education tax benefits.
College Savings Surveys. This includes the results of numerous surveys of parents on the state of their college savings.
There are about a dozen different college savings vehicles available. Choosing among the many options can be confusing, so first check out our College Savings Checklist of questions to ask about every type of college savings account.
If you don't have time to make your own decision, open a section 529 college savings plan for each of your children. Section 529 college savings plans are one of the best college savings vehicles because of the tax advantages, the low impact on need-based financial aid, the flexibility, the high contribution limits and the lack of income phaseouts, and because control over the account remains with the parent. You should also explore some of the loyalty programs, because they provide an easy way to get additional money for your college savings plan.
The complete list of college savings vehicles are as follows:
Section 529 Plans. These include Section 529 College Savings Plans and Section 529 Prepaid Tuition Plans. It includes information about all state section 529 plans and the Tuition Plan Consortium's prepaid tuition plan for private colleges, including ratings of all the section 529 college savings plans for state residents and non-residents and a list of which states provide deductions for 529 plan contributions.
Credit Card Rebate and Loyalty Programs. These are affinity programs such as Upromise, BabyMint, and SAGE Tuition Rewards.
Savings Social Networking Programs. These programs leverage your social network of friends, family and local businesses to help your children save for college and reward academic achievement in school.
CollegeSure CD from College Savings Bank
US Treasury Savings Bonds, including Series EE Savings Bonds, Series I Savings Bonds, Zero Coupon Bonds and Treasury STRIPS, and Treasury Inflation-Indexed Securities (TIPS).
Coverdell Education Savings Accounts, formerly known as Education IRAs.
Money from your Retirement Plan, including penalty-free withdrawals from individual retirement plans (IRAs) and borrowing from your 401(k).
UGMA/UTMA Custodial Accounts
Saving in the Parents' Names
Section 2503(c) Minor's Trust
Crummey Trust
Variable Life Insurance Policies (using the cash value of your variable life insurance policy)
Home Equity Line of Credit. This involves using a home equity line of credit to tap into the equity in your home.
Parents should expect to pay at least half to two-thirds of their children's college costs through a combination of savings, current income, and loans. Gift aid from the government, the colleges and universities, and private scholarships accounts for only about a third of total college costs.
Accordingly, it is very important that parents start saving for their children's education as soon as possible, even as early as the day the child is born. Time is one of your most valuable assets. The sooner you start saving for college, the more time your money will have to grow.
September isNational College Savings Month!
If you start saving early enough, even a modest weekly or monthly investment can grow to a significant college fund by the time the child matriculates. For example, saving $50 a month from birth would yield about $20,000 by the time the child turns 17, assuming a 7% return on investment. Saving $200 a month would yield almost $80,000.
It is less expensive to save for college than to borrow. Either way, you're setting aside a portion of your income to pay for college. But when you save, the money earns interest, while when you borrow, you're paying the interest. Paying for college before your child matriculates definitely costs much less than paying for college afterward. Saving $200 a month for ten years at 7% interest would yield $34,818.89. Borrowing the same amount at 6.8% interest with a ten year term would require payments of $400.70 a month. At 8.5% interest the payments increase to $431.70 a month. (If your return on investment is 4% instead of 7%, you'd accumulate $29,548.13. Borrowing this amount at 6.8% interest would entail monthly payments of $340.04; at 8.5% interest the monthly payments would be $366.35. If your return on investment is 10%, you'd accumulate $41,310.40, corresponding to monthly payments of $475.40 at 6.8% and $512.19 at 8.5%.) So if you elect to borrow instead of saving, you will be paying 1.7 to 2.6 times as much per month.
Even if college is just a year or two away, it is never too late to start saving. There are tax benefits to saving in a section 529 college savings plan or prepaid tuition plan, and every dollar you save is a dollar less you'll need to borrow.
This section of FinAid discusses methods of saving for college. It starts with advice on deciding how much to save and tips on making saving easier. It also discusses common myths about saving, the best investment strategies, and the financial aid impact. There are also several college savings calculators and other useful tools. This section also provides information about the advantages and disadvantages of the most common college savings vehicles, identifying section 529 college savings plans as the best. It also discusses credit card rebate and loyalty programs that help you save for college by rebating a portion of your purchases to your college savings fund.
For a basic overview of saving for college, see FastWeb's Introduction to Saving for College.
Topics about saving in general include:
Setting Savings Goals. How much should you save?
Myths About Saving. Three wrong reasons parents use to avoid saving.
Tips for Making It Easier to Save. These tips will help you find the money to save.
Account Ownership: In Whose Name to Save? This includes information about the financial aid impact of account ownership, such as the very high negative impact of saving in the child's name. A separate page provides additional information about the financial aid treatment of trust funds.
Tax Savings from Child Asset Ownership.
Gift and Estate Taxes. This summarizes the gift tax provisions to the extent they affect saving for college.
Investment Strategies. These tips will help you maximize your return on investment while minimizing your risk.
Prioritizing Savings. Should you save for college or for retirement?
College Savings Calculators. These tools can help you evaluate the impact of different decisions about college savings.
Tuition Inflation. This includes information about historical average annual increases in college tuition rates.
Education Tax Benefit Coordination. This describes coordination restrictions on using tax-free distributions from 529 plans and education savings accounts in conjunction with other education tax benefits.
College Savings Surveys. This includes the results of numerous surveys of parents on the state of their college savings.
There are about a dozen different college savings vehicles available. Choosing among the many options can be confusing, so first check out our College Savings Checklist of questions to ask about every type of college savings account.
If you don't have time to make your own decision, open a section 529 college savings plan for each of your children. Section 529 college savings plans are one of the best college savings vehicles because of the tax advantages, the low impact on need-based financial aid, the flexibility, the high contribution limits and the lack of income phaseouts, and because control over the account remains with the parent. You should also explore some of the loyalty programs, because they provide an easy way to get additional money for your college savings plan.
The complete list of college savings vehicles are as follows:
Section 529 Plans. These include Section 529 College Savings Plans and Section 529 Prepaid Tuition Plans. It includes information about all state section 529 plans and the Tuition Plan Consortium's prepaid tuition plan for private colleges, including ratings of all the section 529 college savings plans for state residents and non-residents and a list of which states provide deductions for 529 plan contributions.
Credit Card Rebate and Loyalty Programs. These are affinity programs such as Upromise, BabyMint, and SAGE Tuition Rewards.
Savings Social Networking Programs. These programs leverage your social network of friends, family and local businesses to help your children save for college and reward academic achievement in school.
CollegeSure CD from College Savings Bank
US Treasury Savings Bonds, including Series EE Savings Bonds, Series I Savings Bonds, Zero Coupon Bonds and Treasury STRIPS, and Treasury Inflation-Indexed Securities (TIPS).
Coverdell Education Savings Accounts, formerly known as Education IRAs.
Money from your Retirement Plan, including penalty-free withdrawals from individual retirement plans (IRAs) and borrowing from your 401(k).
UGMA/UTMA Custodial Accounts
Saving in the Parents' Names
Section 2503(c) Minor's Trust
Crummey Trust
Variable Life Insurance Policies (using the cash value of your variable life insurance policy)
Home Equity Line of Credit. This involves using a home equity line of credit to tap into the equity in your home.
Scholarships
Undergraduate scholarships and graduate fellowships are forms of aid that help students pay for their education. Unlike student loans, scholarships and fellowships do not have to be repaid. Hundreds of thousands of scholarships and fellowships from several thousand sponsors are awarded each year.
Best Ways to Find Money1. FastWeb Scholarship Search2. Local Public Library3. Local College's Aid Office
Generally, scholarships and fellowships are reserved for students with special qualifications, such as academic, athletic or artistic talent. Awards are also available for students who are interested in particular fields of study, who are members of underrepresented groups, who live in certain areas of the country or who demonstrate financial need.
The best way to search for scholarships and fellowships is to use a personalized search, like the FastWeb scholarship search, that compares your background with a database of awards. Only those awards that fit your profile are identified as matches.
There are several free scholarship databases available online. With more than 1.5 million scholarships worth more than $3.4 billion, the FastWeb scholarship search is the largest, most accurate and most frequently updated scholarship database. If you supply an email address, they will notify you when new awards that match your profile are added to the database. You can even submit an electronic application to some of the scholarships listed in the FastWeb scholarship database, saving you time and money. FastWeb also includes a college search and numerous other student resources.
November isNationalScholarshipMonth!
In addition to the FastWeb scholarship search, you may want to search one of the other free scholarship search sites. It doesn't take much time to search and it's free. To find small local awards that aren't listed in any book or database, look for notices posted on bulletin boards at your school's guidance office, the public library and outside the financial aid office at nearby colleges and universities.
You can also search for scholarships using your favorite web search engine by including the word "scholarships" with your search keywords.
College alumni and other private scholarship sponsors occasionally establish scholarships with esoteric eligibility requirements, such as a scholarship for left-handed students. Although there aren't many of these unusual scholarships, they often attract a lot of attention because of their slightly offbeat nature.
The most prestigious scholarships and fellowships also attract a lot of attention because they are among the most lucrative and competitive awards. Many colleges also offer full tuition academic scholarships.
Average students often ask whether there are any scholarships available to students who don't have a 4.0 GPA. There are many scholarships for average students that focus on qualities besides academic merit. There are also many community service scholarships and scholarships for hispanic and latino students.
Most scholarship search sites do not allow children under age 13 to register because of the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). Unfortunately, this prevents parents from finding out about scholarships for students under age 13. FinAid has compiled a comprehensive list of college scholarships for students under age 13 and in grades K-8.
Don't waste your money on fee-based scholarship matching services. You won't get any better information than you can get from the free services available on the Web.
Once you've identified the scholarships for which you are eligible, FinAid has many good suggestions on how to maximize your chances of winning a scholarship.
Scholarships that sound too good to be true usually are. Learn how to recognize and protect yourself from the most common scholarship scams. The number one tip: If you have to pay money to get money, it's probably a scam.
It is important to ask the school's financial aid office about its outside scholarship policy, since this can affect how much you benefit from winning a scholarship if you are receiving need-based student aid.
A portion of your scholarship might be taxable. Usually amounts used for tuition and required fees are tax-free, but you should review the rules to ensure that you report the scholarship correctly.
The most reliable information about the number and amount of scholarships can be found in the National Postsecondary Student Aid Study (NPSAS), a statistically representative survey of undergraduate and graduate students conducted by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) at the US Department of Education. FinAid also presents an analysis of the number of scholarships in the major scholarship databases, reporting the precision and recall of each database.
Students who are awarded scholarships often need additional financial assistance. See the Loans section for information on student and parent loans. To find out about contest, grants and other aid options, visit the section discussing Other Types of Aid. The Other Types of Aid section also provides information about scholarships for students with specific interests or abilities.
Businesses and philanthropists who are thinking about sponsoring a new scholarship may find the Scholarship Design & Management section helpful.
Best Ways to Find Money1. FastWeb Scholarship Search2. Local Public Library3. Local College's Aid Office
Generally, scholarships and fellowships are reserved for students with special qualifications, such as academic, athletic or artistic talent. Awards are also available for students who are interested in particular fields of study, who are members of underrepresented groups, who live in certain areas of the country or who demonstrate financial need.
The best way to search for scholarships and fellowships is to use a personalized search, like the FastWeb scholarship search, that compares your background with a database of awards. Only those awards that fit your profile are identified as matches.
There are several free scholarship databases available online. With more than 1.5 million scholarships worth more than $3.4 billion, the FastWeb scholarship search is the largest, most accurate and most frequently updated scholarship database. If you supply an email address, they will notify you when new awards that match your profile are added to the database. You can even submit an electronic application to some of the scholarships listed in the FastWeb scholarship database, saving you time and money. FastWeb also includes a college search and numerous other student resources.
November isNationalScholarshipMonth!
In addition to the FastWeb scholarship search, you may want to search one of the other free scholarship search sites. It doesn't take much time to search and it's free. To find small local awards that aren't listed in any book or database, look for notices posted on bulletin boards at your school's guidance office, the public library and outside the financial aid office at nearby colleges and universities.
You can also search for scholarships using your favorite web search engine by including the word "scholarships" with your search keywords.
College alumni and other private scholarship sponsors occasionally establish scholarships with esoteric eligibility requirements, such as a scholarship for left-handed students. Although there aren't many of these unusual scholarships, they often attract a lot of attention because of their slightly offbeat nature.
The most prestigious scholarships and fellowships also attract a lot of attention because they are among the most lucrative and competitive awards. Many colleges also offer full tuition academic scholarships.
Average students often ask whether there are any scholarships available to students who don't have a 4.0 GPA. There are many scholarships for average students that focus on qualities besides academic merit. There are also many community service scholarships and scholarships for hispanic and latino students.
Most scholarship search sites do not allow children under age 13 to register because of the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). Unfortunately, this prevents parents from finding out about scholarships for students under age 13. FinAid has compiled a comprehensive list of college scholarships for students under age 13 and in grades K-8.
Don't waste your money on fee-based scholarship matching services. You won't get any better information than you can get from the free services available on the Web.
Once you've identified the scholarships for which you are eligible, FinAid has many good suggestions on how to maximize your chances of winning a scholarship.
Scholarships that sound too good to be true usually are. Learn how to recognize and protect yourself from the most common scholarship scams. The number one tip: If you have to pay money to get money, it's probably a scam.
It is important to ask the school's financial aid office about its outside scholarship policy, since this can affect how much you benefit from winning a scholarship if you are receiving need-based student aid.
A portion of your scholarship might be taxable. Usually amounts used for tuition and required fees are tax-free, but you should review the rules to ensure that you report the scholarship correctly.
The most reliable information about the number and amount of scholarships can be found in the National Postsecondary Student Aid Study (NPSAS), a statistically representative survey of undergraduate and graduate students conducted by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) at the US Department of Education. FinAid also presents an analysis of the number of scholarships in the major scholarship databases, reporting the precision and recall of each database.
Students who are awarded scholarships often need additional financial assistance. See the Loans section for information on student and parent loans. To find out about contest, grants and other aid options, visit the section discussing Other Types of Aid. The Other Types of Aid section also provides information about scholarships for students with specific interests or abilities.
Businesses and philanthropists who are thinking about sponsoring a new scholarship may find the Scholarship Design & Management section helpful.
Scholarships
Undergraduate scholarships and graduate fellowships are forms of aid that help students pay for their education. Unlike student loans, scholarships and fellowships do not have to be repaid. Hundreds of thousands of scholarships and fellowships from several thousand sponsors are awarded each year.
Best Ways to Find Money1. FastWeb Scholarship Search2. Local Public Library3. Local College's Aid Office
Generally, scholarships and fellowships are reserved for students with special qualifications, such as academic, athletic or artistic talent. Awards are also available for students who are interested in particular fields of study, who are members of underrepresented groups, who live in certain areas of the country or who demonstrate financial need.
The best way to search for scholarships and fellowships is to use a personalized search, like the FastWeb scholarship search, that compares your background with a database of awards. Only those awards that fit your profile are identified as matches.
There are several free scholarship databases available online. With more than 1.5 million scholarships worth more than $3.4 billion, the FastWeb scholarship search is the largest, most accurate and most frequently updated scholarship database. If you supply an email address, they will notify you when new awards that match your profile are added to the database. You can even submit an electronic application to some of the scholarships listed in the FastWeb scholarship database, saving you time and money. FastWeb also includes a college search and numerous other student resources.
November isNationalScholarshipMonth!
In addition to the FastWeb scholarship search, you may want to search one of the other free scholarship search sites. It doesn't take much time to search and it's free. To find small local awards that aren't listed in any book or database, look for notices posted on bulletin boards at your school's guidance office, the public library and outside the financial aid office at nearby colleges and universities.
You can also search for scholarships using your favorite web search engine by including the word "scholarships" with your search keywords.
College alumni and other private scholarship sponsors occasionally establish scholarships with esoteric eligibility requirements, such as a scholarship for left-handed students. Although there aren't many of these unusual scholarships, they often attract a lot of attention because of their slightly offbeat nature.
The most prestigious scholarships and fellowships also attract a lot of attention because they are among the most lucrative and competitive awards. Many colleges also offer full tuition academic scholarships.
Average students often ask whether there are any scholarships available to students who don't have a 4.0 GPA. There are many scholarships for average students that focus on qualities besides academic merit. There are also many community service scholarships and scholarships for hispanic and latino students.
Most scholarship search sites do not allow children under age 13 to register because of the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). Unfortunately, this prevents parents from finding out about scholarships for students under age 13. FinAid has compiled a comprehensive list of college scholarships for students under age 13 and in grades K-8.
Don't waste your money on fee-based scholarship matching services. You won't get any better information than you can get from the free services available on the Web.
Once you've identified the scholarships for which you are eligible, FinAid has many good suggestions on how to maximize your chances of winning a scholarship.
Scholarships that sound too good to be true usually are. Learn how to recognize and protect yourself from the most common scholarship scams. The number one tip: If you have to pay money to get money, it's probably a scam.
It is important to ask the school's financial aid office about its outside scholarship policy, since this can affect how much you benefit from winning a scholarship if you are receiving need-based student aid.
A portion of your scholarship might be taxable. Usually amounts used for tuition and required fees are tax-free, but you should review the rules to ensure that you report the scholarship correctly.
The most reliable information about the number and amount of scholarships can be found in the National Postsecondary Student Aid Study (NPSAS), a statistically representative survey of undergraduate and graduate students conducted by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) at the US Department of Education. FinAid also presents an analysis of the number of scholarships in the major scholarship databases, reporting the precision and recall of each database.
Students who are awarded scholarships often need additional financial assistance. See the Loans section for information on student and parent loans. To find out about contest, grants and other aid options, visit the section discussing Other Types of Aid. The Other Types of Aid section also provides information about scholarships for students with specific interests or abilities.
Businesses and philanthropists who are thinking about sponsoring a new scholarship may find the Scholarship Design & Management section helpful.
Best Ways to Find Money1. FastWeb Scholarship Search2. Local Public Library3. Local College's Aid Office
Generally, scholarships and fellowships are reserved for students with special qualifications, such as academic, athletic or artistic talent. Awards are also available for students who are interested in particular fields of study, who are members of underrepresented groups, who live in certain areas of the country or who demonstrate financial need.
The best way to search for scholarships and fellowships is to use a personalized search, like the FastWeb scholarship search, that compares your background with a database of awards. Only those awards that fit your profile are identified as matches.
There are several free scholarship databases available online. With more than 1.5 million scholarships worth more than $3.4 billion, the FastWeb scholarship search is the largest, most accurate and most frequently updated scholarship database. If you supply an email address, they will notify you when new awards that match your profile are added to the database. You can even submit an electronic application to some of the scholarships listed in the FastWeb scholarship database, saving you time and money. FastWeb also includes a college search and numerous other student resources.
November isNationalScholarshipMonth!
In addition to the FastWeb scholarship search, you may want to search one of the other free scholarship search sites. It doesn't take much time to search and it's free. To find small local awards that aren't listed in any book or database, look for notices posted on bulletin boards at your school's guidance office, the public library and outside the financial aid office at nearby colleges and universities.
You can also search for scholarships using your favorite web search engine by including the word "scholarships" with your search keywords.
College alumni and other private scholarship sponsors occasionally establish scholarships with esoteric eligibility requirements, such as a scholarship for left-handed students. Although there aren't many of these unusual scholarships, they often attract a lot of attention because of their slightly offbeat nature.
The most prestigious scholarships and fellowships also attract a lot of attention because they are among the most lucrative and competitive awards. Many colleges also offer full tuition academic scholarships.
Average students often ask whether there are any scholarships available to students who don't have a 4.0 GPA. There are many scholarships for average students that focus on qualities besides academic merit. There are also many community service scholarships and scholarships for hispanic and latino students.
Most scholarship search sites do not allow children under age 13 to register because of the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). Unfortunately, this prevents parents from finding out about scholarships for students under age 13. FinAid has compiled a comprehensive list of college scholarships for students under age 13 and in grades K-8.
Don't waste your money on fee-based scholarship matching services. You won't get any better information than you can get from the free services available on the Web.
Once you've identified the scholarships for which you are eligible, FinAid has many good suggestions on how to maximize your chances of winning a scholarship.
Scholarships that sound too good to be true usually are. Learn how to recognize and protect yourself from the most common scholarship scams. The number one tip: If you have to pay money to get money, it's probably a scam.
It is important to ask the school's financial aid office about its outside scholarship policy, since this can affect how much you benefit from winning a scholarship if you are receiving need-based student aid.
A portion of your scholarship might be taxable. Usually amounts used for tuition and required fees are tax-free, but you should review the rules to ensure that you report the scholarship correctly.
The most reliable information about the number and amount of scholarships can be found in the National Postsecondary Student Aid Study (NPSAS), a statistically representative survey of undergraduate and graduate students conducted by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) at the US Department of Education. FinAid also presents an analysis of the number of scholarships in the major scholarship databases, reporting the precision and recall of each database.
Students who are awarded scholarships often need additional financial assistance. See the Loans section for information on student and parent loans. To find out about contest, grants and other aid options, visit the section discussing Other Types of Aid. The Other Types of Aid section also provides information about scholarships for students with specific interests or abilities.
Businesses and philanthropists who are thinking about sponsoring a new scholarship may find the Scholarship Design & Management section helpful.
Consolidation Loan Discounts
The following is a list of lenders that provide Consolidation Loans. It includes a basic comparison chart that highlights the loan discounts offered by each lender. Only consolidators that offer loan discounts are included in this list. More information about consolidation loans can be found in the consolidation loan and private consolidation loan sections of FinAid.
The lenders are listed in alphabetical order. No significance should be inferred from the order in which the lenders are listed.
Many lenders offer loan discounts to encourage borrowers to consolidate their loans with them. With the repeal of the single holder rule, borrowers now have a choice of consolidation lenders.
The most common loan discounts include a 0.25% interest rate reduction for having your monthly loan payments direct debited from your bank account and a 1% interest rate reduction after 36 months of on-time monthly payments for as long as you continue making on-time payments. (However, with the changes in lender subsidies introduced by College Cost Reduction and Access Act of 2007, many lenders are eliminating the 1% rate reduction after 36 months on new loans originated on or after October 1, 2007.)
Note, however, that if you are late with a single monthly payment or obtain a deferment or forbearance, you lose the interest rate reduction permanently. Less than 10% of borrowers succeed in obtaining the full benefit of an on-time payment discount. (Even borrowers who sign up for automatic direct debit of the monthly payments can miss a payment if they have insufficient funds in their account.)
We recommend focusing on the discounts that you can't lose, such as discounts for signing up for direct debit of the monthly payments. Next look for discounts that are more immediate in nature, such as those that offer a reduction in principal or a rebate of the loan fees. When a repayment incentive requires on-time payments, prefer those that involve a shorter time period before you can qualify for the discount. A discount that is suspended for a short time period after you are late with a payment is better than one that terminates after a single late payment.
Be sure to ask the lender whether there is a minimum balance to obtain the discounts. Often the discounts require a loan balance that is higher than the minimum balance required to consolidate. Also ask what is considered an "on-time" payment; usually this is within 10-15 days of the due date.
These lenders all reserve the right to change or discontinue their loan discount programs at any time without notice. You should always check the lender's web site for the latest information on their borrower benefit programs.
See Student Loan Discounts for other important caveats on the hidden gotchas of loan discount programs and tips on identifying the best loan discount programs.
http://www.finaid.org/loans/consolidationloandiscounts.phtml
The lenders are listed in alphabetical order. No significance should be inferred from the order in which the lenders are listed.
Many lenders offer loan discounts to encourage borrowers to consolidate their loans with them. With the repeal of the single holder rule, borrowers now have a choice of consolidation lenders.
The most common loan discounts include a 0.25% interest rate reduction for having your monthly loan payments direct debited from your bank account and a 1% interest rate reduction after 36 months of on-time monthly payments for as long as you continue making on-time payments. (However, with the changes in lender subsidies introduced by College Cost Reduction and Access Act of 2007, many lenders are eliminating the 1% rate reduction after 36 months on new loans originated on or after October 1, 2007.)
Note, however, that if you are late with a single monthly payment or obtain a deferment or forbearance, you lose the interest rate reduction permanently. Less than 10% of borrowers succeed in obtaining the full benefit of an on-time payment discount. (Even borrowers who sign up for automatic direct debit of the monthly payments can miss a payment if they have insufficient funds in their account.)
We recommend focusing on the discounts that you can't lose, such as discounts for signing up for direct debit of the monthly payments. Next look for discounts that are more immediate in nature, such as those that offer a reduction in principal or a rebate of the loan fees. When a repayment incentive requires on-time payments, prefer those that involve a shorter time period before you can qualify for the discount. A discount that is suspended for a short time period after you are late with a payment is better than one that terminates after a single late payment.
Be sure to ask the lender whether there is a minimum balance to obtain the discounts. Often the discounts require a loan balance that is higher than the minimum balance required to consolidate. Also ask what is considered an "on-time" payment; usually this is within 10-15 days of the due date.
These lenders all reserve the right to change or discontinue their loan discount programs at any time without notice. You should always check the lender's web site for the latest information on their borrower benefit programs.
See Student Loan Discounts for other important caveats on the hidden gotchas of loan discount programs and tips on identifying the best loan discount programs.
http://www.finaid.org/loans/consolidationloandiscounts.phtml
Federal student loan consolidation is a fixed-rate refinancing program that combines all of your existing federal student loans into one new loan. Consolidation is a great tool for managing your finances - providing immediate payment relief and long term benefits. With our fast and convenient eSignature, your application will be complete in just a few minutes.Cut your monthly student loan payment by as much as 50%
Simplify your finances with one monthly payment
Improve your credit rating
-->
No credit checks, fees, or application charges
Reduce your interest rate 0.6% by consolidating during your grace period
Free Non-Student Loan Debt Consultation
Do you have more debt outside of student loans? Please request a free debt consultation today. Consolidate your debt into one lower payment, avoid bankruptcy, and be debt free in as little as 12-48 months. Get Started Now!
Apply Now for Federal Student Loan Consolidation
Federal Student Loan Consolidation Payment Relief
One of the key benefits of consolidating your federal school loans is payment relief. By combining all of your student loans into one consolidated loan, you can lengthen your repayment term from the standard 10 years to up to 30 years, depending on the amount of your education debts. With a lower monthly payment, you'll have more money available to meet other living expenses, including car payments, housing expenses, and career-related necessities. Because there are no penalties for overpayment, you can make larger payments and reduce your repayment term when it becomes affordable. Learn more about how student loan consolidation works in this step-by-step tutorial.
Consolidating with Student loan Consolidator
Get one-on-one personalized customer service. Our loan counselors will educate you on the benefits of federal student loan consolidation and help you determine if consolidating is the right choice. We will explain the consolidation process and the repayment options that are available to you.
What Qualifies for Federal Student Loan Consolidation?
Federal loan consolidation can include Federal Stafford Loan consolidation, PLUS Loan consolidation, Direct Loan consolidation as well as Perkins Loans, HEAL Loans and all Federal FFELP and Direct Loans taken to pay for your education. Private student loan consolidation is different - You will lose your federal loan benefits if you consolidate your federal loans into a private loan consolidation.
Apply Now for Federal Student Loan Consolidation
Consolidating with Student loan Consolidator
Get one-on-one personalized customer service. Our loan counselors will educate you on the benefits of federal student loan consolidation and help you determine if consolidating is the right choice. We will explain the consolidation process and the repayment options that are available to you.
Managing Existing Student Loan Debt Obligations:
If you're having trouble meeting your student loan payments, contact your loan servicer. You may qualify for a deferment, forbearance, or repayment alternative that is more affordable.
Consolidation can help by extending your loan's repayment term beyond the standard ten years. While this will increase the total interest charges, the monthly payments will become more manageable.
Watch your expenses! Just as you need to be cautious when you're in school, you need to be aware of your expenses after you leave school.
Limit credit card usage to absolute necessities. Remember you'll pay more for every charged item because of the credit card's finance charges.
If you must have student credit cards, shop around for low interest rates or call existing credit card providers and ask them for a lower rate.
If you are delinquent or in default, visit our Student Loan Default Assistance page for more help.
Free Non-Student Loan Debt Consultation
Do you have more debt outside of student loans? Please request a free debt consultation today. Consolidate your debt into one lower payment, avoid bankruptcy, and be debt free in as little as 12-48 months. Get Started Now!
Apply Now for Federal Student Loan Consolidation
Federal Student Loan Consolidation
Related Links
Student loan consolidation
Direct loan consolidation
Defaulted student loan consolidation
PLUS loan consolidation
Private student loan consolidation
Consolidate PLUS loans - apply now
Common typos for consolidation
http://www.studentplatinum.com/
Federal Student Loan Consolidation
Federal student loan consolidation is a fixed-rate refinancing program that combines all of your existing federal student loans into one new loan. Consolidation is a great tool for managing your finances - providing immediate payment relief and long term benefits. With our fast and convenient eSignature, your application will be complete in just a few minutes.
Cut your monthly student loan payment by as much as 50%
Simplify your finances with one monthly payment
Improve your credit rating
-->
No credit checks, fees, or application charges
Reduce your interest rate 0.6% by consolidating during your grace period
Free Non-Student Loan Debt Consultation
Do you have more debt outside of student loans? Please request a free debt consultation today. Consolidate your debt into one lower payment, avoid bankruptcy, and be debt free in as little as 12-48 months. Get Started Now!
Apply Now for Federal Student Loan Consolidation
Federal Student Loan Consolidation Payment Relief
One of the key benefits of consolidating your federal school loans is payment relief. By combining all of your student loans into one consolidated loan, you can lengthen your repayment term from the standard 10 years to up to 30 years, depending on the amount of your education debts. With a lower monthly payment, you'll have more money available to meet other living expenses, including car payments, housing expenses, and career-related necessities. Because there are no penalties for overpayment, you can make larger payments and reduce your repayment term when it becomes affordable. Learn more about how student loan consolidation works in this step-by-step tutorial.
Consolidating with Student loan Consolidator
Get one-on-one personalized customer service. Our loan counselors will educate you on the benefits of federal student loan consolidation and help you determine if consolidating is the right choice. We will explain the consolidation process and the repayment options that are available to you.
What Qualifies for Federal Student Loan Consolidation?
Federal loan consolidation can include Federal Stafford Loan consolidation, PLUS Loan consolidation, Direct Loan consolidation as well as Perkins Loans, HEAL Loans and all Federal FFELP and Direct Loans taken to pay for your education. Private student loan consolidation is different - You will lose your federal loan benefits if you consolidate your federal loans into a private loan consolidation.
Apply Now for Federal Student Loan Consolidation
Consolidating with Student loan Consolidator
Get one-on-one personalized customer service. Our loan counselors will educate you on the benefits of federal student loan consolidation and help you determine if consolidating is the right choice. We will explain the consolidation process and the repayment options that are available to you.
Managing Existing Student Loan Debt Obligations:
If you're having trouble meeting your student loan payments, contact your loan servicer. You may qualify for a deferment, forbearance, or repayment alternative that is more affordable.
Consolidation can help by extending your loan's repayment term beyond the standard ten years. While this will increase the total interest charges, the monthly payments will become more manageable.
Watch your expenses! Just as you need to be cautious when you're in school, you need to be aware of your expenses after you leave school.
Limit credit card usage to absolute necessities. Remember you'll pay more for every charged item because of the credit card's finance charges.
If you must have student credit cards, shop around for low interest rates or call existing credit card providers and ask them for a lower rate.
If you are delinquent or in default, visit our Student Loan Default Assistance page for more help.
Free Non-Student Loan Debt Consultation
Do you have more debt outside of student loans? Please request a free debt consultation today. Consolidate your debt into one lower payment, avoid bankruptcy, and be debt free in as little as 12-48 months. Get Started Now!
Apply Now for Federal Student Loan Consolidation
Federal Student Loan Consolidation
Related Links
Student loan consolidation
Direct loan consolidation
Defaulted student loan consolidation
PLUS loan consolidation
Private student loan consolidation
Consolidate PLUS loans - apply now
Common typos for consolidation
http://www.studentloanconsolidator.com/consolidation/federal-student-loan-consolidation.php
Cut your monthly student loan payment by as much as 50%
Simplify your finances with one monthly payment
Improve your credit rating
-->
No credit checks, fees, or application charges
Reduce your interest rate 0.6% by consolidating during your grace period
Free Non-Student Loan Debt Consultation
Do you have more debt outside of student loans? Please request a free debt consultation today. Consolidate your debt into one lower payment, avoid bankruptcy, and be debt free in as little as 12-48 months. Get Started Now!
Apply Now for Federal Student Loan Consolidation
Federal Student Loan Consolidation Payment Relief
One of the key benefits of consolidating your federal school loans is payment relief. By combining all of your student loans into one consolidated loan, you can lengthen your repayment term from the standard 10 years to up to 30 years, depending on the amount of your education debts. With a lower monthly payment, you'll have more money available to meet other living expenses, including car payments, housing expenses, and career-related necessities. Because there are no penalties for overpayment, you can make larger payments and reduce your repayment term when it becomes affordable. Learn more about how student loan consolidation works in this step-by-step tutorial.
Consolidating with Student loan Consolidator
Get one-on-one personalized customer service. Our loan counselors will educate you on the benefits of federal student loan consolidation and help you determine if consolidating is the right choice. We will explain the consolidation process and the repayment options that are available to you.
What Qualifies for Federal Student Loan Consolidation?
Federal loan consolidation can include Federal Stafford Loan consolidation, PLUS Loan consolidation, Direct Loan consolidation as well as Perkins Loans, HEAL Loans and all Federal FFELP and Direct Loans taken to pay for your education. Private student loan consolidation is different - You will lose your federal loan benefits if you consolidate your federal loans into a private loan consolidation.
Apply Now for Federal Student Loan Consolidation
Consolidating with Student loan Consolidator
Get one-on-one personalized customer service. Our loan counselors will educate you on the benefits of federal student loan consolidation and help you determine if consolidating is the right choice. We will explain the consolidation process and the repayment options that are available to you.
Managing Existing Student Loan Debt Obligations:
If you're having trouble meeting your student loan payments, contact your loan servicer. You may qualify for a deferment, forbearance, or repayment alternative that is more affordable.
Consolidation can help by extending your loan's repayment term beyond the standard ten years. While this will increase the total interest charges, the monthly payments will become more manageable.
Watch your expenses! Just as you need to be cautious when you're in school, you need to be aware of your expenses after you leave school.
Limit credit card usage to absolute necessities. Remember you'll pay more for every charged item because of the credit card's finance charges.
If you must have student credit cards, shop around for low interest rates or call existing credit card providers and ask them for a lower rate.
If you are delinquent or in default, visit our Student Loan Default Assistance page for more help.
Free Non-Student Loan Debt Consultation
Do you have more debt outside of student loans? Please request a free debt consultation today. Consolidate your debt into one lower payment, avoid bankruptcy, and be debt free in as little as 12-48 months. Get Started Now!
Apply Now for Federal Student Loan Consolidation
Federal Student Loan Consolidation
Related Links
Student loan consolidation
Direct loan consolidation
Defaulted student loan consolidation
PLUS loan consolidation
Private student loan consolidation
Consolidate PLUS loans - apply now
Common typos for consolidation
http://www.studentloanconsolidator.com/consolidation/federal-student-loan-consolidation.php
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