Good Cents by Payactiv

The new year is right around the corner, which means it’s the perfect time to take a look at our finances and create a budgeting and saving plan for the new year. In today’s podcast episode, we discuss how to create a budget for 2024 based on your goals, using a variety of accessible, financial resources.

Have a financial question for us? Email  [email protected]. Don’t forget to subscribe on Apple1, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Here’s the recap of today’s 15-minute episode: 

• Getting caught up in the holiday sales and spending more money
• How to review your spending to prepare for next year’s budget using apps like Mint or Monarch
• Categorizing bills and finding ways to save money every month
• Paying yourself first with saving and investing
• Budgeting mistakes to avoid and preparing for irregular expenses

Prioritizing saving and budgeting during the holidays is crucial for maintaining the financial habits you focus on building throughout the year. For example, having a budget in place allows for thoughtful and intentional gift-giving while keeping excessive and impulsive spending in check. When you stay on track during the holidays, it’s easier to start the new year on the right foot in terms of your financial goals. In today’s podcast episode, learn new strategies for creating and following your budget while buying meaningful gifts for your loved ones and making the most of your time with your family. 

Have a financial question for us? Email  [email protected]. Don’t forget to subscribe on Apple1, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Here’s the recap of today’s 18-minute episode: 

• How planning ahead is critical to saving money during the holidays
• How used gifts and thrift stores can help you save money on gifts
• Using Google Forms and AirTable to track your budgeting and make better decisions 
• Make the most of holiday deals and events to maximize every dollar
• Take advantage of financial tools like those available in the Payactiv app
• Unique gift-finding strategies that don’t break the budget

Being aware of financial fraud is crucial because it helps protect your hard-earned money and keep you on track towards your financial goals. When you can recognize the signs of fraud, you can protect yourself and loved ones from scams that can cost you hundreds or thousands of dollars. In today’s podcast, learn about the most common types of financial fraud to be aware of and how you can keep yourself safe.

Have a financial question for us? Email [email protected]. Don’t forget to subscribe on Apple1, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Here’s the recap of today’s 15-minute episode: 

• Recognizing and avoiding payday loan scams
• How Earned Wage Access can help you avoid high-interest loans
• Staying ahead of phishing and cybersecurity scams 
• Stay vigilant to avoid check overpayment scams or an online overpayment scams
• Avoid identity theft through smart credit reporting and credit checks 
• Tax season-scams and how to see them coming 

Your financial health and mental health impact each other on a regular basis. Join Eric Rosenberg and Melanie Lockhart in an informative conversation about how financial stress can lead to mental health challenges and vice versa. Learn proven strategies for remembering your self-worth and making informed financial decisions that align with your goals. 

Have a financial question for us? Email [email protected]. Don’t forget to subscribe on Apple1, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Here’s the recap of today’s 15-minute episode: 

• How money and mental health are related 
• How financial stress can exacerbate mental health struggles
• The power of side hustles and alternate sources of income to help you reach your goals
• How to handle comparison and societal pressure to keep up with the latest trends
• Understanding your budget and communicating boundaries in day-to-day life

Join Robert Fattington, from The College Investor, and Erin Rosenberg for an in-depth conversation about student loans, qualifying for loan forgiveness, and optimizing your repayment and refinancing strategies. Learn about the ins and outs of loan qualification, repayment plans, and forgiveness programs as a student or a parent. Fattington and Rosenberg discuss the benefits of federal loans' income-driven repayment, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, and more. 

Have a financial question for us? Email  [email protected]. Don’t forget to subscribe on Apple1, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Here’s the recap of today’s 15-minute episode: 

• The types of student loan paths available, including FAFSA, private loans, and more.
• Qualifying for student loan forgiveness through your job or school.
• What is refinancing and how to get started.
• Efficient strategies for paying back your student loans.

There’s still time to plan an incredible summer vacation, while sticking to your financial goals. In today’s podcast episode, we explore different strategies and tips that you can use to craft the perfect and budget-friendly itinerary. 

Have a financial question for us? Email  [email protected]. Don’t forget to subscribe on Apple1, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Here’s the recap of today’s 18-minute episode: 

• How to plan to pay cash for a trip
• The best websites for booking affordable hotels
• Strategies for booking flights
• How to use credit cards and points to maximize savings
• Creating a realistic yet flexible budget for your trip

Renting sometimes gets a bad reputation. Buying a home is often considered a sign of financial success or milestone, but for many of us, renting can actually be a more prudent choice based on our goals and current financial situation. 

In today’s podcast episode, we dig into when and why renting is better than buying a home and how you can maximize your money as a renter.

Have a financial question for us? Email [email protected]. Don’t forget to subscribe on Apple1, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Here’s the recap of today’s 18-minute episode: 

• How Payactiv can help you save money for rent 
• Meet Matt Rogers, a homeowner and current renter, and learn about his renting journey
• Factors that impacted increased prices for homes
• The maintenance benefits of renting a home
• How you save by renting and the perks of being a part of a community
• How renting compares to home ownership financially, both in the short term and long term.

Buying your first home can be a daunting venture. Being prepared for every step is one of the best ways to increase your confidence and chances of finding a home you love that also fits your budget.

Have a financial question for us? Email  [email protected]. Don’t forget to subscribe on Apple1, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Here’s the recap of today’s 15-minute episode: 

• How to start saving for your down payment with Payactiv
• The first steps you should take if you’re interested in going from being a renter to a buyer
• The basics of a FHA Loan, USDA Loan, and other financing options
• How your credit score impacts your loan and mortgage
• The importance of paying your bills on time and and lowering your credit utilization ratio
• How automated savings can set you up for success when buying your first home
• How to identify the type of home you can afford
• How to talk to a lender to ask your initial questions
• Wholistically looking at your mortgage amount and what feels good to you
• The costs to consider when buying a home
• What is house hacking and is it the right strategy for you

* The Payactiv Visa Prepaid Card is issued by Central Bank of Kansas City, Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. Certain fees, terms, and conditions are associated with the approval, maintenance, and use of the Card. You should consult your Cardholder Agreement and the Fee Schedule at payactiv.com/card411. If you have questions regarding the Card or such fees, terms, and conditions, you can contact us toll free at 1 (877) 747-5862, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Despite worries about the economy, today’s episode of Good Cents episode will convince you that now is a great time to explore your current pay options and maybe even negotiate a raise with your current employer.

We’re talking to Stephanie O'Connell, a finance expert, author, podcaster, and journalist. Stephanie’s advice for asking for a raise? Show your value. This episode will improve your negotiation skills, help you take control of your career, or be a helpful reference later on (so have a notebook and a pen ready!). 

Here’s a recap of today’s information-packed episode:

• Despite economic challenges, now is a good time to negotiate because there are many job openings. 
• To negotiate a raise effectively, it’s important to bring data from external sources as well as evidence of a job well done. Create a file of past accomplishments and tell stories showcasing your unique value. 
• Optimizing your job can lead to promotions and higher pay. Consider asking for on-demand pay during a raise negotiation. 
• Look for companies with supportive environments and join employee resource groups for better outcomes.

Have a financial question for us? Email  [email protected]. Don’t forget to subscribe on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

A key facet of financial learning is tax preparation and maximizing your refund. Nicole Rosen is an Enrolled Agent (EA) with the IRS, which means she’s in a great position to share some last-minute filing tips. 

Have a financial question for us? Email  [email protected]. Don’t forget to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

Here’s the recap of today’s 15-minute episode: 

• The pros and cons of using tax software versus hiring a professional
• Common mistakes people make when preparing their taxes
• The importance of taking advantage of all possible credits and deductions, especially for single parents and divorced families who may be struggling financially
• Free programs offered by the IRS for those who need help with their taxes, regardless of their income
• Payactiv app users can get a $15 coupon for TurboTax when they download and use the Payactiv app. 
• When you apply for and activate your Payactiv Visa® Card*, you can get your tax return up to 4 days early(1). Simply use the account and routing numbers found in the Payactiv app when filing your taxes

* The Payactiv Visa Prepaid Card is issued by Central Bank of Kansas City, Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. Certain fees, terms, and conditions are associated with the approval, maintenance, and use of the Card. You should consult your Cardholder Agreement and the Fee Schedule at payactiv.com/card411. If you have questions regarding the Card or such fees, terms, and conditions, you can contact us toll free at 1 (877) 747-5862, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

(1) Many (but not all) employers, government benefits providers, and other originators send direct deposits early with an effective date of 1-4 days later. Beginning with your second direct deposit of at least $5 from the same source, Central Bank of Kansas City (CBKC) will post the funds to your Payactiv Visa Card when we receive it, rather than on the effective date. This may result in your having access to the funds sooner. The date CBKC receives your direct deposit and the effective date are controlled by the originator.