Category: Brandpoint Business & Finance

2020-02-05T10:05:00

(BPT) – For most Americans, their tax refund is the biggest single financial transaction of the year. The stakes are high to get every credit, deduction and dollar they deserve — with the combination of a great price for tax preparation and the expert human help they need. Do-it-yourself (DIY) filers should consider switching their online tax prep services to H&R Block^® if they experience any of these three signs.

1. You experience TurboTax^® sticker shock

A survey of DIY tax filers found 94% want to save more money in 2020 than they did in 2019. TurboTax filers may be paying more than they need to.

It’s better with Block: More people can file for free with H&R Block Free Online than with TurboTax — including parents and students. That’s because H&R Block provides nearly double the number of free forms compared to TurboTax.

H&R Block DIY client, Alyssa, stated in January 2020: “I planned on using another tax company, but I decided to try H&R Block and it was completely free.”

Filers with more complex tax situations can also save money with Block. H&R Block Online filing products are always at least $10 less than TurboTax.

2. You are surprised by your tax outcome

Many online tax services such as TurboTax fail to provide an explanation of how the price changes as you use the product.

Heather Watts, senior vice president of DIY tax for H&R Block, says, “Most Americans say they deserve to know how much money they’re paying before they agree to pay for a service. That’s why H&R Block is leading the industry to create a better experience for tax filers with our commitment to price transparency from start to finish.”

Rose, an H&R Block DIY online filer, said in January 2020, “There are no hidden fees — they just help you get it done, but let you know there are other options if you need additional assistance or services.”

H&R Block Online offers 100% confidence that filers will know exactly what to expect from price to refund. All pricing is quoted upfront, and if something in your filing changes along the way, H&R Block’s Price Preview feature will notify you. This is part of the H&R Block No Surprise Guarantee*: upfront, transparent pricing; transparent process; free audit assistance; and a free mid-year tax check-in.

3. You wish you had more ways to get help

In January of 2020, an H&R Block DIY filer who goes by the alias Thankful Customer, shared her experience to highlight the importance of human help: “I am a widow over 65 and am drawing a Social Security check and working part time in my church office. I had a few questions and used the chat and was given clear instructions so was able to complete my filing with very little trouble. Keep up the good work, H&R Block! People like me need you.”

H&R Block offers clients several ways to ask for assistance, allowing them to receive as much or as little help as they need from a tax pro trained for their unique tax filing situation. Clients using H&R Block Online Assist^SM are served by a tax expert with an average of 12 years of experience and hundreds of training hours. It offers unlimited, on-demand access to a tax expert, enrolled agent or CPA via chat session, screen share or phone call.

It’s the people who set the technology apart from other options. Another H&R Block DIY filer, Bree, told us in January 2020, “They go out of the way to really make sure you are taken care of and treated fairly.”

According to Watts, that’s the point: “At H&R Block, we are committed to providing help and inspiring confidence in our clients and communities everywhere. Through Online Assist, our tax experts answer questions and deliver help and care so you can file your return online with confidence.”

DIY tax filers who have experienced any of these signs should consider switching to H&R Block in as little as two clicks by simply dragging and dropping last year’s return. Get more information about online tax filing options for tax season 2020.

H&R Block is a registered trademark of HRB Innovations, Inc.

TurboTax is a registered trademark of Intuit, Inc.

*Receive 20% off next year’s tax preparation if we fail to provide any of the 4 benefits included in our “No Surprise Guarantee” (Upfront Transparent Pricing, Transparent Process, Free Audit Assistance, and Free Midyear Tax Check-In). Limitations apply. Description of benefits and details at hrblock.com/guarantees.

2020-02-03T08:01:00

(BPT) – A recent survey of over 1,000 consumers by Navy Federal Credit Union found that 45% of general population consumers feel optimistic about their financial future. Consumers today want to save, pay down debt and invest.

2020-01-22T17:08:22

(BPT) – Here’s something you may not know: All-season tires are only meant for year-round driving if you live in the extreme southern United States.

Everyone else needs tires that protect them in snow, ice and frigid temperatures. In some places in North America, it’s even a legal requirement. All-season tires are not built to provide traction on winter roads.

If you live in a place that gets consistent snow and ice each winter, there’s nothing safer than a set of premium dedicated winter tires. But what about areas where winter weather is mild or unpredictable? In that case, winter tires might be overkill, especially since they aren’t built for summer roads and thus require drivers to own two sets of tires.

However, one solution saves drivers hassle and money while keeping them protected when temperatures plummet and roads become slick. All-weather tires are made for year-round driving but rated to provide safe driving on winter snow and ice.

What’s the difference between all-weather tires and their winter and all-season alternatives?

All-weather tires combine all-season and winter driving technology to give drivers year-round peace of mind on the road. They’re the most convenient winter driving option, since drivers can keep them on all year long.

All-weather tires handle well in rain and heat, but they’re also marked with the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol (also known as the severe service emblem) that certifies they’re suitable for winter use. Notably, this certification makes them legal for use in areas that require winter-rated tires.

Nokian Tyres invented the all-weather tire and is already on its fifth generation of the product. The Scandinavian company encourages their use in areas with unpredictable or milder winter weather.

“We designed all-weather tires to provide safe driving in all conditions, even the worst weather winter has to offer,” said the company’s director of products and pricing, Steve Bourassa. “While dedicated winter tires remain an ideal option for drivers who experience consistently severe winter weather, our all-weather products offer a great combination of safety and convenience for drivers in many North American locales.”

Based in Finland, Nokian Tyres tests its all-weather products north of the Arctic Circle at the same facility where it puts its winter tires to the test. The key to their year-round performance is an asymmetrical tread design: One side of the tire’s tread pattern looks like a winter tire, while the other side has grooves more typical of an all-season product.

Its all-weather products also have a dual performance compound that delivers responsive grip on winter roads without sacrificing spring and summer performance.

It all adds up to a convenient, versatile driving experience that protects winter drivers much more effectively than all-season tires.

To learn more about what makes all-weather tires thrive in year-round driving conditions, visit NokianTires.com/Weather.

2020-01-21T08:13:00

(BPT) – As the holiday season comes to an end, another important season begins for most Americans — tax season. It’s time to take a break from holiday overspending and start improving your money-saving skills. The good news is, filing your own taxes can be an easy first step in that direction.

According to a survey of do-it-yourself tax filers commissioned by H&R Block, nearly a third (30%) say they don’t do enough to save money, and 88% say they’re likely to work harder in the future to find discounts and better prices. DIY tax filers now have opportunities to become better savers in the new year using H&R Block’s online tax prep products.

Senior Vice President and General Manager of Digital at H&R Block, Heather Watts, offers several benefits of filing taxes through H&R Block Online. Watts is responsible for the development, design, marketing and end-to-end client experience for H&R Block’s online, software and mobile tax products and solutions.

“Identifying if you can file for free using H&R Block Free Online is a great way to kick off financial savings in 2020. More people can file for free with H&R Block Free Online, including students and parents, than with TurboTax[1],” says Watts. Additionally, for those filers who anticipate having to pay for tax prep due to a more complicated tax situation, it’s still possible to save money. Watts adds, “More complex filers can save at least $10 versus TurboTax.”

In the same survey of DIY tax filers, more than half (57%) believe there should be pricing transparency in tax preparation. H&R Block is dedicated to transparency in both pricing and process for every unique tax situation.

From the price of tax preparation to the amount of their tax refund, clients will know exactly what to expect. All pricing is quoted up-front, and if that changes along the way, filers will be notified with H&R Block’s Price Preview feature. “If you start with a free return, you should either end with a free return or be alerted as the price changes along the way for any reason,” says Watts.

H&R Block clients are also in control of how much or how little help they receive. Whether clients are confident in their online tax filing abilities or occasionally need assistance, H&R Block offers myriad online products tailored to each client’s unique tax situation. Recent findings from the H&R Block survey found almost half (49%) of those who file their taxes themselves admit to feeling guilty if they ask someone for assistance. H&R Block wants clients to feel completely comfortable reaching out for help at any time. Through the Online Assist feature, clients have access to on-demand chat sessions, screen share and phone calls with a highly trained tax expert, IRS enrolled agent or CPA.

Support does not stop once tax season ends — there are several added benefits that DIY clients can take advantage of when filing taxes with H&R Block. “We also provide a free midyear tax check-in that includes reminders, tools and an optional free in-office consultation to keep you on track and help avoid unwelcome tax surprises next year,” says Watts. Furthermore, in the case of any IRS audit, clients aren’t on their own. H&R Block offers free audit assistance explaining the IRS’s position and helping clients understand how to respond.

Begin saving money this tax season with H&R Block. Last year, more than 1.4 million people made the switch to H&R Block. Making the switch to H&R Block Online can happen in as little as two clicks. Simply visit hrblock.com to learn more and discover the online tax products available in 2020.

2019-12-31T08:01:00

(BPT) – When it comes to finances, Americans have a tendency to play it safe and are generally risk averse. According to the latest findings from Northwestern Mutual’s 2019 Planning & Progress Study, nearly three-quarters of Americans (72%) report they are more comfortable reducing risk to ensure the safety and stability of their savings and investments, even if it means the potential for lower returns.

This tendency to protect financial investments is positive, but it’s also important to understand what’s driving some of these instincts — is it based on people’s comfort level with understood risks, or does it come out of an uncertainty or lack of awareness about the level of risk they’re taking?

It’s a nuanced question, but it’s an important distinction. For example, if you’re told that a snowstorm is coming without details of its path or location, it’s hard to know how best to prepare. With limited information, you may take extreme or unnecessary measures.

This can happen with personal finances as well. People may not be fully aware of the scope of risk or potential options, so may opt for caution, even at the risk of lower returns. More knowledge and information can lead to a better understating of actual risks, which can lead to greater confidence about your choices. Put another way, with more certainty you’re in a better position to prepare appropriately for pending storms.

As you start thinking about your New Year’s resolutions, consider these tips to improve your understanding of financial risk:

• Have a plan: A plan helps you stay on track with your financial goals and can also work as a paradigm for your decision-making process. Northwestern Mutual’s recent research found that those who considered themselves to be “highly disciplined” planners have a higher risk tolerance on average compared to those who are “informal” planners.
• Work with a professional: Financial experts can provide helpful information and guidance. Research confirms that those who work with an advisor report a higher risk tolerance than those who do not seek professional advice.
• Address risk in your portfolio: The start of a new year is a good time to re-evaluate your portfolio to make sure it aligns with your individual risk tolerance and keeps you on track for your long-term goals. There are a number of products on both the investment and protection side that are designed to help manage risk.

2019-12-27T07:01:00

(BPT) – Entrepreneurship is becoming an increasingly common career as passionate and creative people start successful businesses on their own. But entrepreneurial endeavors aren’t easy. The lifestyle requires long hours, hard work and dedication.

The best gift you can get for the entrepreneur in your life shows support for their business. Here are eight ideas to treat your business-minded loved one:

Home office supplies

Add to the comfort and function of their home office. Entrepreneurs are often working on their laptops from various places, so a lap desk is a very practical gift that will get a lot of use. A portable standing desk can also be a game changer for at-home work. Help transform their workspace into a standing desk area.

Closet steamer

Whether they’re traveling the country or going meeting to meeting, entrepreneurs are always on the go. A closet steamer, like the LG Styler, is an at-home steam closet that reduces light wrinkles, odors, and sanitizes fabric items in 20 minutes with the gentle power of steam — no chemicals. Perfect for refreshing suits, dress shirts and more.

Bluetooth speaker

No more dealing with tangled headphone cords. For those that work from home or in an independent space, a Bluetooth speaker lets you listen to podcasts, music or audiobooks with crystal-clear sound.

Essential oil diffuser

Whether you need a boost of energy or want to relax after a long day at work, an essential oil diffuser is a great addition for home or office. Choose from so many essential oil blends with therapeutic effects to help you stay calm, focused and crushing goals.

Education courses

Entrepreneurial types are constantly learning and developing to grow their business. Show your support with a specific education course or gift card to purchase the course of their choice. From marketing and design to basic accounting and other business-related areas, the learning possibilities are endless.

Coffee-making set up

Entrepreneurs are working hard both day and night. To make life easier, give the gift of high-quality coffee. First, find out how your loved one likes their coffee. Then, choose from options like espresso makers, a French press, single-serving coffee machines and more. And don’t forget to add in some actual coffee beans.

Back-up phone charger

Running or starting your own business involves a lot of time talking on the phone or answering and checking email. Avoid the hassles of a dying phone with a portable battery charger that will easily fit in any work bag or briefcase.

Workout class pass

Help your favorite entrepreneur blow off some steam and relax with a tough workout, peaceful yoga class or both. Head to your local yoga studio or fitness center to see if they offer gift cards or class passes.

Show your support and appreciation for the diligent worker in your life. Choose from any of these sensible gift ideas.

2019-12-20T08:01:00

(BPT) – While the holiday season is a wonderful time of year, it can also put great financial strain on individuals going into the new year. The demand of holiday spending can lead to worry of unpaid credit card bills, which can lead many to put themselves on a strict “money diet.” As you reflect on the past year and the goals you want to set for yourself, you may want to put financial wellness at the top of your list of resolutions.

But financial wellness is not just about achieving a specific dollar amount in terms of savings, advises Amanda Clayman, financial therapist and Prudential’s financial wellness advocate. Instead, Clayman recommends establishing overall healthy money habits when it comes to your finances in 2020. It’s about being both practical and less reactive when it comes to decisions around money.

Here are some tips for how you can improve your financial wellness heading into the new year.

1. Set up monthly “money dates”

“One of the smartest things we can do for our bottom line is simply reviewing our finances,” says Clayman. “Dedicate time each week or month (whatever you can do, just keep it consistent) to tackling your money management. These intentional ‘money dates’ with yourself and/or your family or partner could help you save money throughout the year.”

During your money date, review where you are in terms of your budget process, debt you are trying to reduce and your savings plan. Have unexpected expenses come up recently? Focus on how you can handle those, and better prepare yourself to cope with similar expenses in the future.

2. Be in a good headspace

Clayman acknowledges that most people find dealing with money stressful, which can cause them to avoid examining these issues or discussing them with spouses or family members.

“It’s perfectly normal to feel anxious about money from time to time,” Clayman says. “When this happens, take a break and come back to the task when you can think with a clear, productive mindset.”

Dealing with difficult money issues when you’re feeling emotionally stressed can lead to less rational decisions. Instead, review the issue when you’re more likely to be able to step back and see the big picture without overreacting.

3. Practice “Unsubscribe Sundays”

Clayman recommends that you take a few minutes every week to unsubscribe from the many promotional emails that clutter up your inbox. These might tempt you to shop impulsively when you don’t want or need to spend the money.

After the holidays is a great time to tackle this, as your online purchases may have gotten your name on a few too many email lists.

4. Get a money buddy

It can be helpful and encouraging to share your goals for the future and compare notes with someone who cares about you — and who may have experienced some of the same struggles along the way.

“This not only keeps us more accountable, but we’re able to make it fun and create a stimulating discussion,” advises Clayman. “Involve your partner, friends and family in your financial wellness journey.”

5. Keep your resolutions positive, not punishing

In an effort to achieve your financial wellness goals, focus on the positive rather than the negative. Clayman notes: “As opposed to saying you want to cut spending, think instead of what you want to put that saved money toward, and attach a specific number to it. This process will help you keep track of progress and ultimately reward you for getting there.”

This New Year’s, make money resolutions you can stick to, not just for your bottom line, but for your overall well-being and peace of mind. “Remember that the path to financial wellness is very personal and in no way linear,” says Clayman. “There’s no better time to begin the journey to a healthier money mindset than today.”

For information, advice and tools for investing in your financial wellness and establishing healthy financial habits, visit Prudential Financial.

2019-12-20T07:01:00

(BPT) – The demand for highly skilled employees continues to rise across various industries, spurring many of today’s top companies to seek creative new ways to encourage and develop the best talent. One obstacle to that mission is the rising cost of higher education. To combat that, some businesses hope to foster tomorrow’s employees by supporting today’s students — in very concrete, targeted ways.

Industry leaders with an eye toward inspiring and attracting future talent are providing scholarships in specific fields to help students pursue higher education, such as Syngenta’s “Accelerating a Generation” scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students in the agricultural field. Funding scholarships for students today becomes a very real investment in the future of the business, and the industry as a whole.

And ambitious students are eager to take advantage of these opportunities. One such example is Mitch Roth, who earned a national Syngenta scholarship in 2015 while pursuing a doctorate in genetics at Michigan State University. The scholarship support allowed him to focus more fully on his research, which has led him to a position as a postdoctoral research associate in plant pathology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Roth’s research on the role of genetics in disease resistance in soybeans could one day have a tangible effect on improving soybean crops. The contributions of students like Roth will have a substantial impact on both farmers and on agribusiness in the future.

Students with higher degrees in these types of specialized fields are in demand across several trades. Companies like Syngenta benefit from supporting highly educated and well-trained talent, so they are prioritizing their efforts to ensure that more students today receive the educations that will propel them to the top of their fields. Since 2015, the company has awarded a total of $20,000 in scholarships each year. So far, scholarship recipients have pursued degrees at colleges in 18 states.

For 2020, the Syngenta scholarships have been renamed “Accelerating a Generation,” emphasizing the focus on helping ambitious, innovative students find success and bring positive change to the agricultural industry. The scholarship awards eight $1,000 regional scholarships and two $6,000 national scholarships to help support each student’s education. One of the national awards is given to a student pursuing a bachelor’s degree, and the other for a student working toward a master’s degree in crop-related disciplines. The national award winners are chosen from the pool of regional scholarship winners.

The 2019 national winner at the master’s level is Nick Lord from Virginia Tech, who is enrolled in the Soybean Breeding Program. His essay encouraged students from various backgrounds to find a niche in the agricultural community. At the bachelor’s level, the winner was Adrienne Blakey from Oklahoma State University, who is a plant and soil sciences major. Her essay emphasized the value of integrity as a building block for the agricultural industry’s future.

How to apply

Students interested in applying for an “Accelerating a Generation” scholarship must be a university student currently pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a crop-related discipline, and a U.S. resident enrolled in an accredited agriculture program at an eligible university as of spring 2020.

Applicants must submit an initial application at Syngenta-us.com/scholarships by Jan. 7, 2020, followed by a 2- to 5-minute-long video essay by Jan. 15. This year’s video essay question is: “How have your roots shaped the way you view the future of the agriculture industry?” Winners will be announced by late spring.

The new graduates each year bring fresh minds with different perspectives to whatever field they pursue, which often leads to more innovation tomorrow. Syngenta uses their annual scholarships to show their commitment to giving these diverse voices the support necessary to lead the agricultural industry into the future.

2019-12-18T09:01:01

(BPT) – Freelancer, passion projects, side hustles are all synonymous with the gig economy — which has grown substantially over the past decade. The economic downturn of 2008 led many employers to recruit gig/temporary workers to control costs. The explosion of rideshare services and other contract employment has increased the awareness of gig as a steady work stream.

According to MetLife’s 17th Annual U.S. Employee Benefit Trends Study, almost 30 million Americans receive primary income from gig or part-time work — nearly one-fifth of the total workforce. An additional 15 million supplement “traditional” full-time work with gig work. The study found that 85% of gig workers were interested in continuing their contract work over the next five years, instead of seeking a traditional work role.

What does it mean to go ‘gig’?

The gig economy is defined as work based on a fixed-term contract, or that’s paid per project by a company, third party or via an online marketplace. Those who use gig work to earn extra money part-time include full-time employees looking to boost their income, students, people who want to pursue a passion project, stay-at-home parents, job seekers and retirees. Others consider gig work as their full-time employment.

It may be surprising to learn gig workers are well distributed across all demographics in today’s workforce, according to the study:

• 21% Gen Z (ages 21-22)
• 34% Gen Y (ages 23-36)
• 21% Gen X (ages 37-52)
• 25% Boomers (ages 53 and up)

What makes gig work so attractive?

Gig work is appealing for many reasons, to many people. According to the MetLife study, 67% of full-time employees reported interest in gig work as opposed to their current jobs, and 49% of employees expressed the intent to leave their current employer for contract or freelance work in the next five years.

• Pursuit of the ultimate work/life blend

  Flexibility over one’s time is probably the top attraction of gigging. In the study, nearly half the respondents (49%) said that not being able to work remotely was the reason they left full-time work. Flexible schedules offer workers a compelling work/life blend of their choosing. Due to the flexibility and ease of communication provided by technology today, more jobs are becoming open to remote work and adaptable schedules — across many sectors — which may help companies retain full-time employees tempted by the gig lifestyle.

• Autonomy, fulfillment and a sense of purpose

  Gigging allows workers more choice in the work they do, and freedom to pursue a variety of projects. They can choose where they work and who they work for. Gig workers tend to see work as more than just earning a paycheck. The study found nearly half of gig workers (48%) said they work to gain a sense of fulfillment, and 47% said that a significant influence in working was to feel a sense of self-worth.

The challenges gig workers face

While there are many appealing aspects of gigging, it also presents unique challenges.

• Financial stressors

  The main stressor for all employees — gig or traditional — is finances. Gig workers may experience more financial stress than traditional full-time workers, however, since their work may be less steady than a traditional position. Gig workers need to constantly keep up with obtaining and maintaining clients, ensuring their next project (and paycheck) is lined up. They also need to pay their own self-employment taxes and Social Security, among other expenses.

• Employer benefits

  Gig workers are usually responsible for obtaining medical insurance and other benefits normally provided by employers. In fact, only 4% of gig workers reported that employers offered insurance, and only 5% said they were offered a retirement plan. People who choose to “be their own boss” must also procure their own benefits beyond health care, such as short- or long-term disability, accident insurance and more. Gig workers who want or need benefits may have to pay the full cost of coverage themselves. In the survey, 65% of gig workers said that they would be interested in a wider array of non-medical benefits that they could pay for on their own.

• Co-workers and career development

  Unlike traditional employees with daily access to networking with colleagues and continuing education through their employers, gig workers wanting to develop their careers must find and pursue those opportunities on their own.

Interested in gigging? Read “The Gig Economy: Opportunities, Challenges, and Employer Strategies” report to learn more about MetLife’s insights into the evolving gig economy.

2019-12-17T08:01:01

(BPT) – As you gear up for a new year with new goals, now is the time to ask yourself if your wheels need a refresh. And there’s no better time, as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends that tires be replaced every six years regardless of the number of miles driven. Research shows that improperly maintained tires are one of the leading causes of vehicle accidents in the U.S., particularly among teenage drivers.

So, for this resolution, there’s no gym membership required. No dietary changes. No dusting off the bookshelf or hours of self-taught YouTube classes.

Just in time for 2020, global tire brand Michelin provided key insights to kick start your shopping experience. The company shared that it starts with asking yourself a set of three brief questions before stepping into your local car or tire dealership:

1. How many? Are you looking at replacing one, two or all four tires?
2. What’s my make & model? Is this for the family crossover SUV or for the personal sports car?
3. What kind of driver am I? Arguably the most important of the three. Are you more focused on reducing noise, enhancing performance, or somewhere in between? What is important to you?

As the ’20s come roaring in, here are some considerations to help you find the right fit for your new tires in 2020:

For the performance-seekers

Fall in love with your car’s untapped potential with a performance tire throughout the whole tire life; one that delivers excellent targeted features and benefits, such as dry and wet braking with no compromise in other areas.

For the wannabe track star
Looking to take your sports car’s performance up a level in 2020? Duly noted. Be on the hunt for a performance tire that allows you to make the most out of your time on the track — wet or dry!

For drivers in wintry conditions

For those harsh climates, you want a tire that provides ultimate winter confidence — which means not just snow, but ice and below freezing conditions that cover many miles, enabling you and your loved ones to fully embrace winter even in the harshest conditions.

For that ultimate tread life

If you’re on the hunt for a tire that will get you from Point A to B time and time again, look for a tire that combines proven tread design and a reliable compound to provide durable tread life, no matter the season. The Michelin Defender is an all-season tire suitable for all types of cars with a warranty up to 90,000 miles.

For the expecting

Anticipating a new addition to the family in 2020? What’s more important than what’s covering your four wheels on baby’s first drive home? Look for a dependable tire that maintains its performance as it wears.

An important shopping tip

The industry standard is to test wet-braking performance of new tires; not used. Worn tires should deliver good wet-braking performance versus new tires, and you should have access to worn-tire test results before you buy new tires.

Once you’ve decided what makes most sense for you, head into your dealership (or visit MichelinMan.com for more information on the right fit) to make that drive into the New Year a safe and fulfilling one.