A Movement representative did not return a request for comments.
A spokesperson for loanDepot said, “Inducing individuals to breach contractual prohibitions against employee solicitation and misuse of confidential information in order to steal business and customer relationships crosses the line into unfair competition, and we will continue to vigorously protect our interests.”
The California-based lender claims employees in Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Florida left the company to join Movement after an “orchestrated” move and “all-expenses-paid recruiting trips,” including to Movement’s headquarters in South Carolina. Additional Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Delaware employees also transitioned to the retail competitor.
In some cases, Movement offered a $125,000 signing bonus to loanDepot loan originators to come to the company, the lawsuit claims.
“To date, several loanDepot branches have been effectively gutted and loanDepot has lost at least 25 employees at the hand of Movement’s predatory raiding,” the lawsuit states.
The lawsuit follows: “In the weeks leading to their departures, the former employees accessed and misappropriated confidential and trade secret documents about loanDepot’s business, its employees, and its clients; information that, in the hands of Movement, was used to convert customers to Movement and away from loanDepot.”
loanDepot has ongoing arbitrations with certain of the former employees.
The lender seeks damages and permanent injunctive relief against Movement for misappropriation of trade secrets, aiding and abetting breaches of fiduciary duty, unfair competition, unjust enrichment, unfair trade practices, and tortious interference with loanDepot’s contracts and prospective economic advantage.
That’s not the Orange County, California-based lender’s only poaching legal battle.
Since April 2022, the company filed three lawsuits against CrossCountry Mortgage in New York, California and Illinois.
In early June, a judge in the N.Y. case ruled in favor of loanDepot in a preliminary injunction by prohibiting CrossCountry and employees who switched companies from using data they obtained from their prior employer. It follows a decision from a judge in the Chicago lawsuit. However, according to the judge, as loanDepot has not shown an “actual and imminent” risk of irreparable harm, its request for a preliminary injunction against the solicitation of loanDepot’s employees was denied. The judge mentions “loanDepot is likely to succeed on the merits of its Defend Trade Secrets Act claim.”
This is a guest post from Steve Martile, a life coach and the author of the personal-growth blog Freedom Education. Here he describes a money jar system for budgeting that actually reminds me of Elizabeth Warren’s balanced money formula, but with a little more detail.
Managing money doesn’t restrict freedom — it creates freedom.
While that’s probably not the first time you’ve heard this, you’ve got to start managing your money if you want to create financial abundance. I started doing so in 2006 after reading T. Harv Eker’s Secrets of the Millionaire Mind [J.D.’s review].
Before then, my wife and I were pretty random with our spending habits. We ran a pretty high tab every month and had nothing to show for it. At the time, I was driving a brand new Nissan 350Z, which cost me an $800 payment each month. That didn’t include insurance or gas, that was just the payment on the car.
JARS: The Money Jar System
Then we started using the JARS money management system discussed in Secrets of the Millionaire Mind. And what are the JARS? The JARS are just that: plastic jars. Here’s a photo of my jars from my home office:
The jars themselves aren’t actually that important. What’s more important is the money management system behind them. We actually bought the JARS as a visual reminder of where to put our money when we manage it. But we manage it from a set of bank accounts.
Managing your Money Reaps Rewards
Once we started to manage our money, I sold the 350Z. After our first year, without any significant change in our income and all expenses being treated equal, our net worth increased by a surprising 45%. When we learned how to apply this system we realized it was very simple and it didn’t require a lot of our time.
Here are the results we produced after using the JARS for 12 months:
Our net worth increased by 45%.
We bought our first home for $337,000.
We created $800/month in passive income by renting out our one-bedroom basement apartment.
We earned $200 in interest from our savings accounts. We use ING Direct savings accounts, which were clocking at about 3.5% interest at the time. (Ed. note: ING Direct became Capital One 360 in 2013.)
We created more peace in our relationship because my wife and I have our own “play” money.
The real trick to managing your money is not what you do — it’s how you do it.
How to Use the JARS System
Here are the jars and a short description of each one.
Necessity Account (NEC – 55%):
This account is for managing your everyday expenses and bills. This would include things like your rent, mortgage, utilities, bills, taxes, food, clothes, etc. Basically it includes anything that you need to live, the necessities.
Financial Freedom Account (FFA – 10%):
This is your golden goose. Therefore this jar is your ticket to financial freedom. The money that you put into this jar is used for investments and building your passive income streams. You never spend this money. The only time you would spend this money is once you become financially free. Even then you would only spend the returns on your investment. Never spend the principal.
Education Account (EDU – 10%):
Money in this jar is meant to further your education and personal growth. Since you are your most valuable asset, an investment in yourself is a great way to use your money. I have used education money to purchase books, CDs, courses or anything else that has educational value.
Long-term Saving for Spending Account (LTSS – 10%):
The money in this jar is for the bigger nice to have purchases. As a result, my wife and I have used the money from this account to go skiing in The Rockies in Whistler, BC. We also used this money last September for our trip to Italy and Switzerland. The only reason we’ve been able to make this happen is because we’ve accumulated a nice sum each month in our LTSS. A small monthly contribution can go a long way.
Play Account (PLAY – 10%):
This is my favorite account. PLAY money is spent every month on purchases you wouldn’t normally make. The purpose of this jar is to nurture yourself. You could purchase an expensive bottle of wine at dinner, get a massage or go on a weekend getaway. Play can be anything your heart desires. My wife and I each receive our own play money, and here’s the best part. We’re not allowed to ask what the other person spends their money on.
Give Account (GIVE – 5%):
Finally, the money in this account is for giving away. Trisha and I give money every month to the Sick Kids Hospital Foundation. In addition, we use the money in this jar to give to family and friends on birthdays, special occasions and holidays. You can also give away your time as opposed to giving away money. You could house sit for a neighbor, take a friends dog for a walk or volunteer in your community.
Related >> See the best choices for a high yield savings account.
How the JARS Money Jar System Works
Here is a sketch of how we use the jars. Actually, we don’t use jars at all. All of our accounts are electronic savings accounts with our necessity (NEC) account being the only exception; it’s a checking account. Trisha and I deposit all of our personal income into our necessity account. The money in our necessity account pays for all of our expenses. And the remaining money is distributed into five other accounts.
I learned very early in the process that the jar percentages are not critical. To guarantee your financial success, just start using the system and build the habit. This is the key. It doesn’t have to be perfect when you start.
Furthermore, you could even start by splitting $10 every month into the jars. There’s an inspiring story in Secrets of the Millionaire Mind. One woman started splitting $1 into the jars every month. In her first month, she put 10 cents into her PLAY, 10 cents into her FFA, 10 cents into her LTSS, and so on. Later that month she used her play money to buy a piece of bumble gum. She received a mini comic with the bubble gum package that she bought with her play. She read the comic and got a laugh. Two years later she deposited a $10,000 dollar check into her FFA account. Now who’s laughing?
I highly recommend the JARS system to anyone who wants to make the most out of their money. If you’re looking for a simple way to budget, then start using the JARS system. Remember: Managing money doesn’t restrict freedom — it creates freedom.
You can read more from Martile at his personal-growth blog Freedom Education. He has also written a free e-book entitled The Genius Within YOU.
Prepare for a fiery odyssey that will ignite your taste buds and test your spice tolerance to the limit. Fueled by unique varieties and the surge of the internet shows celebrating fiery hot sauces, the popularity of super spicy peppers has skyrocketed. Join us on a thrilling exploration as we uncover the secrets of the world’s hottest peppers, from the tongue-tingling jalapeño to the tear-inducing habanero.
1. Carolina Reaper
The Carolina Reaper, bred by South Carolina farmer Ed Currie, holds the title of the world’s spiciest chili pepper. With its vibrant appearance and deceptive fruity sweetness, it quickly reveals its fiery nature, delivering a scorching heat that lingers. Only the brave dare to experience its intensity, using it sparingly to add a thrilling kick to various dishes. The Carolina Reaper stands as a legendary pepper, pushing the boundaries of spiciness and leaving a lasting impression on the culinary realm.
2. Komodo Dragon
The Komodo Dragon pepper, created by Italian producer Salvatore Genovese, is a fiercely hot variety inspired by the mighty reptile. Released in 2015, it boasts a Scoville rating ranging from 1.4 million to 2.2 million. With its vibrant colors, wrinkled skin, and deceptive sweet and fruity flavor, this pepper gradually builds up to an intense heat. It is recommended for experienced spice enthusiasts and can be used sparingly to add a fiery kick to various dishes. The Komodo Dragon pepper is a thrilling culinary adventure for those seeking an extraordinary heat experience.
3. Chocolate Bhutlah Pepper
The Chocolate Bhutlah pepper is an exceptionally hot and rare chili variety. Created by Chad Soleski by crossing the Bhut Jolokia and Douglah peppers, it possesses distinctive chocolate-colored, wrinkled skin. Despite its Scoville rating of two million units, it delivers an intense and gradually building heat. Caution should be exercised when handling and using this pepper, but it can add a fiery kick to various dishes, especially meats. The Chocolate Bhutlah pepper is a coveted choice for those seeking an unforgettable and extraordinary spicy experience.
4. Trinidad Moruga Scorpion Pepper
The Trinidad Moruga Scorpion is a renowned chili pepper with intense heat. Originally discovered in Trinidad and Tobago, it features wrinkled, red, or orange skin. With a Scoville rating of two million units, it ranks among the world’s hottest peppers. Known for its slow-building burn and long-lasting heat, it offers a sweet and fruity flavor that enhances hot sauces and recipes. While newer peppers have claimed the hottest title, the Trinidad Moruga Scorpion remains highly regarded by spicy food enthusiasts.
5. Seven Pot Doughlah Pepper
Prepare for a thrilling culinary adventure with the Seven Pot Douglah pepper—a chili renowned for its intense heat and irresistible flavor. Originating from Trinidad and Tobago, this pepper boasts distinctive dark or chocolate-colored skin. With a Scoville rating of nearly 1.8 million units, it ranks among the world’s hottest peppers. Its slow-building burn gradually intensifies, delivering a powerful and long-lasting heat. Despite its fiery nature, the Seven Pot Douglah surprises with a sweet and nutty flavor that enhances various dishes. This pepper has become a favorite in Caribbean cuisine and among chili enthusiasts.
6. Dorset Naga Pepper
Experience the fiery enchantment of the Dorset Naga chili pepper. Crafted by innovative farmers Joy and Michael Michaud in Dorset, England, this chili delivers an intense heat and captivating fruit-like flavor. With its vibrant candy-apple red or orange-red skin, it’s a visual feast. Ranked among the hottest peppers worldwide, the Dorset Naga boasts a precise Scoville rating of 1,598,227 units. Brace yourself for its swift and surprising heat, complemented by a delightful fruity sweetness. Whether you’re a spice enthusiast or an adventurous food lover, the Dorset Naga promises a thrilling culinary adventure.
7. Seven Pot Primo Pepper
Embark on a fiery adventure with the Seven Pot Primo pepper, a remarkable hybrid of the Trinidadian Seven Pot and the legendary Naga Morich. Created by farmer Troy Primeaux, this pepper boasts mesmerizing deep red or rusty orange skin with intriguing textures. With a scorching Scoville rating of 1,473,480 SHU, it ranks among the hottest peppers worldwide. Its slow-building burn delivers a relentless and long-lasting heat, balanced by a surprising blend of fruity and lemony flavors. The Seven Pot Primo is a favorite in hot sauces and spice blends, offering a tantalizing kick to any dish.
8. Trinidad Scorpion Butch T Pepper
Experience the scorching sensation of the Trinidad Scorpion Butch T pepper, a legendary “Capsicum chinense” variety from Trinidad and Tobago. Named after Butch Taylor of Zydeco Farms, this pepper boasts a fearsome appearance with its fiery red or orange skin and wrinkled ridges. It once held the title of the world’s hottest pepper. Though surpassed in recent years, its potent kick still demands caution. Brace yourself for an unforgettable encounter with this fiery legend that continues to captivate spice enthusiasts worldwide.
9. Naga Viper
Discover the sensational Naga Viper pepper, a British chili that reigns among the hottest of the hot. Bred by Gerald Fowler, this hybrid marvel blends the powers of the Trinidad Scorpion, Bhut Jolokia, and Naga Morich peppers. With its fiery appearance, featuring wrinkled red or orange skin, this pepper delivers a powerful punch. However, it also surprises with its fruity and floral flavors, making it a beloved ingredient in hot sauces.
10. Seven Pot Brain Strain Pepper
Prepare to be caught off guard by the remarkable Seven Pot Brain Strain pepper, renowned for its unexpected, sneak attack of heat. This extraordinary chili is a cultivar of the Trinidadian Seven Pot pepper, boasting a vibrant orange or red hue and a heavily wrinkled appearance, characteristic of its fiery counterparts. Embraced by spice enthusiasts and celebrated in Caribbean cuisine, the Seven Pot Brain Strain pepper is a favored choice for those seeking a thrilling culinary experience. Get ready to embark on a spicy adventure as you delve into the world of this captivating pepper variety.
We’ve explored a range of peppers, from the legendary Carolina Reaper to the fiery Naga Viper, each with its own unique characteristics and heat levels. These peppers have captivated spice enthusiasts and added a fiery kick to various dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned spice lover or an adventurous foodie, these peppers offer an exhilarating exploration of flavor and intensity.
These are 10 Things That Completely Destroyed The Love in a Relationship
There’s no question that relationships can be confusing, but here are some of the top things to avoid if you want to keep your relationship healthy!
10 Actors and Actresses People Refuse to Watch Ever Again
We all have a favorite actor or actress, but most of us have a least-favorite as well. Check out this list of actors and actresses people never want to see performing again!
Top 10 Worst Human Inventions of All Time
Some inventions are world-changing, and some of them, well, they change the world in the wrong ways. Here are some of the worst inventions Redditors could think of.
10 Famous Celebrities Who Look Like They Smell Terrible
We’ve all had moments of hygiene faux pas—but these celebrities just look like they don’t take care of themselves at all.
10 Terrible Fads People Are Glad Died Out
Every fad has its time in the limelight, but some of them come and go faster than others; and some just need to die out right away. Check out this list of fads of which people were happy to see the last.
The average overdraft fee ranges from $20 to $35, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). Banks charge overdraft fees if you spend more than the money you have in your account. If you lose track of your purchases – or if you expected a deposit to clear but it didn’t, leaving you short on funds – your bank could hit you with hefty overdraft charges.
It’s a high price to pay for an innocent money mistake. Even worse, if you leave your account in overdraft for several days, your bank could charge additional fees, leaving you in a deep financial hole.
Fortunately, you may be able to get those overdraft fees refunded. We’ve got some secrets that can help you do exactly that.
More importantly, you can learn how to avoid overdraft fees through account monitoring, low-balance alerts sent to your phone, or even finding a bank with no overdraft fees.
Can you get overdraft fees waived?
Yes, you can take steps to convince your financial institution to waive your overdraft fees. Banks and credit unions understand that errors can occur. An occasional miscalculation or a one-off oversight in managing your account doesn’t define your banking behavior. Most financial institutions recognize that.
If you’re a loyal customer who typically maintains a positive account balance, your bank or credit union may be willing to waive an overdraft fee as a gesture of goodwill. Typically, though, you’ll only receive this grace from your bank once per year or so. How do you do it?
Call customer service or stop into a branch and ask the representative to waive your fees. They will most likely check your bank account history to see if overdrafting is a habit or a one-time offense. If you haven’t hit overdraft recently, the bank is likely to waive the fee.
If the first person you ask says no, ask for a bank manager or a supervisor. Persistence – and kindness – is key to receiving the customer service you deserve. It also helps to bring your account balance positive before you ask for an overdraft fee to be waived.
How to Get Overdraft Fees Refunded: A Step-By-Step Guide
1. Know the Charges
Before contacting your bank’s customer service department, you want to know how much you were charged in overdraft fees. Review your bank statement or online account to identify each overdraft fee.
2. Prepare for the Phone Call
With the total amount of the fees in mind, get set to make your case with the customer service representative. Have your account information and the total charges available to save time. Be prepared to explain why you believe the overdraft fees should be refunded, including pointing out how quickly you rectified the negative balance.
3. Contact Your Bank
Next, reach out to your bank or credit union’s customer service department. Politely explain your situation, focusing on why the fees occurred and why you feel they should be refunded. Be kind and let the customer service representative know you appreciate their hard work.
4. Be Persistent
If the first person you speak with refuses to waive the fees, don’t give up. Ask to speak to a manager. If that doesn’t work, call again another day. Persistence can result in a successful overdraft fee refund.
Use an App That Helps with Getting a Refund
The digital age brings many tools to simplify personal finance management. Several mobile banking apps not only assist you in tracking your spending and balances, but can also negotiate overdraft fees with financial institutions on your behalf.
Other apps offer cash advances to help you avoid overdrafts on your bank account.
Here are a few personal finance apps to consider:
Trim: Trim is a financial management app that analyzes your account for recurring charges. It can negotiate with financial institutions to lower or eliminate unwanted fees, including overdraft charges.
Cushion: Known for their AI negotiation bot, Cushion scans your linked accounts for various bank fees, including overdrafts, and then initiates negotiations with your bank to get these fees refunded.
Dave: This app offers interest-free cash advances to avoid overdrafts. Dave also alerts you when your account is approaching a low balance. If necessary, the app can provide a small advance to tide you over.
Chime: Although primarily a fintech that offers banking services, Chime offers SpotMe, a feature that allows you to make transactions that exceed your account balance, up to a certain limit, without incurring overdraft fees.
Mint: While Mint doesn’t negotiate fees on your behalf, it provides comprehensive account monitoring and sends you alerts about low balances and upcoming bills, helping you avoid overdraft situations.
What to Do if You Can’t Get Your Overdraft Fees Covered
Even after your best efforts, the bank may not refund those fees. Here’s what you can do next:
1. Fix the Account as Quickly as Possible
If your account has a negative balance, deposit money as soon as you can to get back into the black. Leaving your account in the negative can lead to additional fees, like extended overdraft fees.
2. Sign Up for Alerts
Most banks and credit unions offer low balance alerts, which can help you avoid overdraft fees. These alerts notify you when your account balance is getting low, so you can deposit more money before any transactions push you into the red.
3. Get Free Overdraft Protection
Consider setting up overdraft protection, which can link your checking account to a savings account, credit card, or line of credit. If you don’t have enough money in your checking account to cover a transaction, your financial institution can transfer funds from your linked account to cover the difference, often for a smaller fee than an overdraft charge.
4. Stay Up to Date on Your Account Balance
Regularly checking your account balances can prevent surprises. You can do this through your bank’s mobile banking app, online banking, or by calling customer service. Also, be mindful of automatic payments that might be scheduled to come out of your account.
5. Consider Switching Banks if You’re Still Struggling
If you’re constantly receiving overdraft fees and can’t get them waived, it may be time to switch banks. Some online banks and credit unions offer accounts with no overdraft fees, while others might be more lenient when refunding overdraft fees.
How to Avoid Overdraft Fees in the Future
Track Your Account Balance
Maintaining an ongoing awareness of your account balance is the first line of defense in preventing overdraft fees. Make a daily habit of checking your account balances through your bank’s mobile banking app or online account. Consistent tracking can help you understand your spending habits better and ensure you’re never caught off guard by a lower-than-expected balance.
Turn Off Overdraft Protection
Overdraft protection is a feature offered by many financial institutions as a way to help you avoid non-sufficient funds fees. While it can be beneficial in some cases, it can also lead to a chain of overdraft fees if your linked accounts also run low on funds. If you find that overdraft protection is causing more harm than good due to associated fees, it might be worth turning it off.
Link Another Account
On the other hand, if you don’t have overdraft protection, consider turning it on. You can link your checking account to a backup account like a savings account or a secondary checking account. If your primary checking account ever lacks sufficient funds for a transaction, your bank can automatically pull funds from the linked account to cover the shortfall. This practice can provide a crucial safety net to prevent overdrafts, and the associated transfer fees are usually smaller than overdraft charges.
Set Up Alerts
Another effective way to avoid overdraft fees is by setting up low balance alerts. These alerts, usually customizable through your bank’s app or online interface, notify you when your account balance falls below a certain threshold. This early warning system gives you ample time to transfer or deposit money into your account before any transactions could potentially lead to an overdraft situation.
Switch Banks
If overdraft fees persist or if your bank’s policies aren’t aligned with your financial management style, don’t be afraid to shop around for other options. Several banks and credit unions do not charge overdraft fees, offering a more forgiving environment for occasional balance miscalculations.
In particular, online banks often have more customer-friendly fee structures because they save on the overhead costs associated with running physical branches. Making a switch could save you from future overdraft fees and potentially offer other financial benefits as well.
Reap the Benefits of Multiple Checking Accounts
Managing your finances across multiple checking accounts can be an effective strategy to curb overdraft fees. This approach allows you to segregate your funds based on their purpose, providing a clearer picture of your available balance for different types of expenses.
One strategy is to dedicate one account specifically to fixed expenses such as rent, mortgage payments, or utility bills. This account serves as a holding place for funds needed to cover these recurring costs and is replenished every time you receive income.
Then, you can set up a separate checking account for variable, everyday expenses such as groceries, dining out, or personal shopping. An unforeseen debit card purchase or ATM withdrawal from your everyday spending account won’t impact your ability to pay critical bills.
Multiple accounts can also help you visualize and manage your budget better. You’ll know exactly what portion of your income goes towards bills and what amount is left for discretionary spending, which can help you avoid spending beyond your means.
Conclusion
Overdraft fees can quickly eat into your bank account balance, but with the right strategies and habits, you can avoid these charges. Remember, it’s not just about managing your money today, but planning for a financially stable future.
With diligent account management, setting up low balance alerts, and even switching banks if necessary, you can keep more money in your pocket and avoid the stress and cost of dealing with overdraft fees.
Inside: Are you confused about how gross pay and net pay are calculated? This guide will clear everything up. Learn about the different deductions that are taken from your paycheck, as well as the tax rates that apply to your gross pay.
This is one of the most confusing questions for many people.
So, if you are wondering what the difference between gross pay and net pay, you are in the right place.
In order to become financially stable, you need to have a tiny amount of financial literacy.
If you’re like most people, you probably think of your “gross pay” as the amount of money you make before taxes are taken out. But in reality, gross pay is your total compensation from your employer before any deductions are made.
So what is “net pay,” then? Net pay is the amount of money that actually goes into your bank account or paycheck after all of those deductions are made.
Now you want to which one is more important between gross pay and net pay.
The answer is: it depends! If you’re trying to save money or make a budget, then net pay is probably more important to you. But if you’re trying to figure out how much taxes you’ll owe at the
We will dive into all of the details, you will not ever be confused again.
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.
What is gross pay?
Gross pay is the total amount of money earned by an employee before any taxes or deductions are taken out. It’s important to know your gross pay as it determines your overall income and can impact your taxes and benefits.
This is the total amount paid by your employer.
Knowing your gross pay is crucial for financial planning and paying taxes.
How can I calculate my gross pay?
To calculate gross pay, you need to know your hourly wage or salary, any overtime pay, bonuses, and additional reimbursements for work-related expenses.
For hourly workers, multiply the hourly wage by the number of regular hours worked within a pay period and include the overtime pay rate for any extra hours.
For salaried workers, multiply the gross monthly income by 12 to find the annual gross salary.
To calculate a paycheck, start with the annual salary amount and divide it by the number of pay periods in the year.
Find out 5000 a month is how much a year.
What deductions are taken out of gross pay?
Gross pay refers to the total amount of money an employee earns before any deductions are taken out.
As such, there are no deductions.
Learn what is annual income.
How are taxes calculated on gross pay?
Gross pay is the amount an employee earns before taxes and deductions are taken out by their employer.
Understanding taxes on gross pay is essential, as it affects an employee’s take-home pay and tax liability.
Taxes that are deducted from gross pay include FICA payroll taxes, federal and state income tax withholding, along with any state-mandated programs like this Colorado Paid Sick Leave.
To calculate taxes on gross pay, an employer uses a formula that subtracts all taxes and deductions from the gross pay amount. Learn how much you should withhold on your taxes.
Common issues that may arise during tax calculation include incorrect tax withholding and not considering voluntary pre-tax deductions. Understand why do I owe taxes this year.
Wealth Building and Tax Reduction Secrets from an IRS Insider
The ninth edition shows you how to save thousands of dollars―legally and ethically!―during tax time.
It offers proven methods for taking advantage of the tax system to get a yearly subsidy of $5,000 or more back from the IRS―and bulletproof your records forever.
How to Build Massive Wealth by Permanently Lowering Your Taxes
For U.S. taxpayers, you will find helpful tips in this new edition to help you apply the new tax incentives to your situation.
Tax breaks are not only for the rich. It is for everybody! You just have to take time and learn it.
What is net pay?
Net pay refers to the amount of money an employee takes home after all deductions and taxes have been taken out of their gross pay.
This is the money left over that you can spend, save, and invest.
Thus, you will be able to budget by paycheck like a pro!
How to calculate net pay?
Calculating net pay is crucial for accurate and compliant payroll management.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to calculate net pay:
Determine the gross pay based on hours worked or salary divided by the number of pay periods in the year.
Subtract mandatory deductions, including health insurance premiums, federal, state, and local income taxes, payroll taxes, and court-ordered wage attachments.
Subtract voluntary deductions, such as employee contributions to a 401(k) or other retirement plan as well as any flexible spending account.
The resulting amount is the employee’s net pay.
Learn about annual net income.
What deductions are taken out of net pay?
Net pay refers to the amount of money an individual receives after taxes and other necessary deductions have been subtracted from their gross pay.
It is a crucial factor in determining an individual’s income, as it represents the actual amount of money they take home.
There are various deductions that are commonly taken out of net pay, including mandatory and voluntary deductions.
Mandatory deductions are made in accordance with the law, while voluntary deductions are ones that employees have the freedom to opt out of.
The mandatory deductions include:
Federal, state, and local income taxes
Social security taxes
Medicare taxes
Local state or municipal taxes
Other common voluntary deductions from gross pay include:
Health insurance premiums (if signed up on a company plan)
Retirement contributions
Health savings account contributions
Flexible spending account contributions
Dependent Care FSA
Is gross before or after taxes?
Gross pay is BEFORE taxes.
Gross pay is the amount earned before taxes and other deductions are taken out. Taxes are then calculated based on the gross pay amount and deducted to arrive at the net pay. This means that gross pay is always before taxes.
Understanding the difference between gross pay and net pay is important to effectively manage finances.
Gross pay may seem like a large amount, but it is important to consider the impact of taxes and other deductions on the final amount received.
What is the difference between gross pay and net pay?
Gross pay and net pay are two important terms that employers and employees should understand.
Gross pay refers to an employee’s total earnings before any deductions are taken out, while net pay is the amount an employee takes home after deductions such as taxes, benefits, and garnishments have been subtracted.
Here are some key differences between gross pay and net pay:
Gross pay includes all earnings, such as wages, salary, reimbursements, commissions, and bonuses, while net pay is the actual amount of the paycheck after deductions.
Employers are responsible for deducting necessary expenses from an employee’s paycheck and making payments to the appropriate accounts before issuing the check or depositing the net pay into the employee’s bank account.
Gross income determines an individual’s federal income tax bracket and borrowing capacity, while net pay presents disposable income.
When budgeting for the year, starting with gross wages requires subtracting the total of taxes and other deductions to compute the actual amount left to spend from each paycheck.
Understanding the difference between gross pay and net pay is crucial for effective budgeting and financial planning.
Employers must ensure proper employee taxes are collected and paid to the government, while employees need to know their take-home pay to manage their expenses.
How do gross pay and net pay work?
Gross pay and net pay are two important terms in the payroll world that employees should understand to manage their finances effectively.
Gross pay is the total amount of pay while net pay is the amount of money you have to spend each month.
Understanding the difference between gross and net pay can help employees and employers avoid confusion and manage their finances better.
What is better gross pay or net pay?
One term is not “better” than the other as they each have different meanings.
When you increase your gross pay, your net pay will rise as well.
Here is how to use gross pay to your advantage:
Provides a clear understanding of the employee’s total compensation
Helps employees plan for future expenses
Can be used as a basis for negotiating salary increases
Figure out the amount of taxes you are required to pay.
Here is how to use net pay to your advantage:
Reflects the employee’s actual take-home pay
Helps employees budget for their expenses
Provides a clear understanding of the impact of deductions on their pay
Can be difficult to compare with other job offers that list gross pay
Overall, net pay is better for employees as it reflects their actual take-home pay and helps them budget for their expenses.
However, it’s important for employees to understand both gross pay and net pay to make informed decisions about their compensation.
Why do you receive more gross pay than net pay in your paycheck?
Employees receive more gross pay than net pay in their paychecks because gross pay is the total amount of money an employee earns before any deductions are taken out.
This includes an employee’s salary, wages, commissions, and bonuses.
On the other hand, net pay is the actual amount of money an employee takes home after taxes, benefits, and other mandatory deductions have been subtracted from their gross pay. These deductions can include federal and state taxes, Social Security contributions, health insurance premiums, and retirement plan contributions.
Therefore, employees receive more gross pay than net pay.
Learn is social security disability income taxable.
FAQs
Overtime wages are included in gross pay when an employee works more than their regular hours and earns additional compensation for the extra hours worked.
This is the case for nonexempt employees who are entitled to overtime pay under federal or state law.
Net income is the take-home pay or the money that you earn on payday, which is why it may be best to focus on that number when creating a budget.
This number helps you determine how much you have to spend, save, or invest.
By tracking your expenses and using budgeting techniques like budgeting with percentages or the 50/30/20 rule, you can manage your finances effectively and make the most out of your net income.
Remember, creating a budget is about being realistic and disciplined with your spending habits, so make sure to adjust your budget accordingly as your income or expenses change.
The tax rates for gross pay depend on the specific taxes being withheld, such as federal income tax, Social Security tax, and Medicare tax.
Federal income tax rates vary depending on the employee’s income level and filing status, with higher earners generally paying a higher percentage of their gross pay in taxes. Click here for the latest federal income tax brackets.
Social Security tax is a flat rate of 6.2% for the employee on the first $$160,200 of gross pay earned. Your employer must match the same contribution. (source)
Medicare tax is a flat rate of 1.45% on all gross pay with the employer matching the same percentage, with an additional 0.9% tax for high earners. (source)
Employees need to understand their tax liability based on their gross pay to accurately calculate their net pay and avoid any surprises come tax time.
Now, you Know the Difference between Gross and Net Pay
Understanding deductions and their impact on net pay is crucial for employees to accurately budget and plan their finances.
Since you know the difference between gross and net pay, you can make sure that you are getting the right amount of money in your paycheck.
Be sure to check your pay stubs carefully to make sure that all of the deductions are correct. If you have any questions, be sure to ask your human resources department.
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
Award-winning chef Melissa Ann Barton is parting ways with her Nashville area abode, and we’re here to give you a quick tour of the meticulously renovated home — which naturally comes with a dream kitchen.
Barton, who’s gained quite a reputation working as a private chef for famous artists like Keith Urban, Kenny Chesney, Derks Bentley, and Martina McBride, bought the house in 2019 (per public records), and then embarked on a massive renovation that transformed the 4,507-square-foot property into a light-filled, contemporary beauty.
“I’ve been fortunate to show many wonderful houses in Middle Tennessee, but every once in a while, I’m introduced to a house that stands out from the rest”, listing agent Chris Grimes tells us.
“That house just feels better built than most – and much more attention was given to the design and function than usual.That is what Melissa Ann and Alan Barton accomplished with their retreat masterpiece in West Nashville. They say luxury is found in the details, and if that is the case, this home is a showcase of luxury.” Chris added.
Recently brought to market for $2,650,000, the chef’s home sits within 18+ wooded acres on Cub Creek Road, adjacent to River Road — which is one of Nashville’s best kept secrets. Artists seeking privacy such as Keith Urban and Kenny Chesney have sought homes on and just off of River Road.
Beyond its great location, which places it just over 10 minutes away from stores and restaurants in Nashville West, the house has plenty to offer.
Spanning 4,507 square feet of elegantly appointed living space, the Nashville area home comes with 4 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms, and large windows that invite the verdant outdoors in.
While the whole house is a treat for the eyes, it’s the kitchen that steals the show with its impeccable design and stellar finishes. And its real-life chef owner was the one who envisioned the space and brought it to life.
“Having deep Appalachian roots, food is my love language. Creating a space that is functional and inviting was a must,” Melissa Ann Barton says in an exclusive quote for Fancy Pants Homes. “Invoking the same sense I apply to my food and events was my guide…timeless with a twist of hip!“
Melissa Ann Barton has been a private chef for famous artists like Keith Urban, Kenny Chesney, Derks Bentley, Martina McBride, and more for years! But, when she designed her chef’s kitchen, she had only one client in mind: her grandchildren.
Related: Food Network’s Valerie Bertinelli bids adieu to her lovely L.A. home
“Being blessed by cooking for clients in some of Nashville’s coolest homes, I drew upon those experiences to design my own. Supporting artisans is important so we incorporated as many handmade items as possible.”
“People love to visit, nibble, and listen to music and watch the food preparation,” Barton tells us, explaining her design choices when creating her dream kitchen, which includes “lots of seating and counter space, dishwashers in 2 locations, 2 sinks and great equipment.”
“Sexy lighting, lots of windows and open shelving with eclectic items provide personality and warmth. If you can make folks feel welcome and comfortable in your kitchen, provide great food and an interesting playlist, strangers become friends!”
Melissa made sure every element was on point. Every light fixture was either handmade, imported, or purchased from a specialty vendor and all the tiles were either handmade or hand painted.
Heading outside, there’s even more space to entertain friends and guests thanks to an impressive tiered deck system that’s both functional and visually appealing.
Mimicking the attention to detail showcased throughout the house, the expansive decks were constructed with all under-mounted hardware and screws to prevent anyone from ever stubbing their toes on such things.
It’s also worth noting that part of the 18.6 acres the property sits on falls under a “revocable greenbelt”, allowing the homeowners to pay significantly reduced property taxes — less than $4,000/year.
Chris Grimes of local Nashville brokerage Corcoran Reverie holds the listing.
More stories
Food Network’s Valerie Bertinelli bids adieu to her lovely L.A. home
Celebrity Chef Giada de Laurentiis Sells Scenic Pacific Palisades Home for $7 Million
Many people know Disney Cruise Line for its family-friendly cruises from North American home ports to the Caribbean, Bahamas, Mexico and Alaska. But did you know that every summer, one Disney cruise ship makes its way across the Atlantic Ocean for a season in the Mediterranean?
Previously, Disney Magic was the lucky ship to cruise among the charming European ports, but in 2023, Disney Dream sailed to the Mediterranean for the first time. The ship will continue to take families to bucket-list-worthy destinations around Europe, including Italy, France, Greece and Norway, next summer, too.
If you’re thinking about taking a European cruise and wondering how to balance traveling with kids and venturing into historic cities, don’t panic. Here are five ways Disney is making the Europe cruise experience as simple and smooth as possible for families of all types.
For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG’s cruise newsletter.
Children can stay in the kids clubs while parents explore the ports
Long port days can be hard for parents who want to see the historic sites in Rome, visit wineries in Tuscany or enjoy a guided hike in Norway but fear their kids will get bored quickly or are too young to participate in some activities.
One of the biggest perks for families cruising with Disney Cruise Line is that kids can stay in the dedicated kids clubs on board the cruise ship while parents explore the various ports of call on their own. Parents can drop junior cruisers off at the clubs before getting off the ship and know that their children are being cared for by the counselors their kids have already met.
Even better, playtime in Disney Dream’s four youth activity spaces is included in the overall cost of the sailing. Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab are dedicated spaces for kids ages 3 to 12, where they can play games, do crafts or hang out with a good book while under the supervision of the counselors.
Related: Best cruise lines for families
While you’re out enjoying the port, you can also be assured that Disney is taking care of your children’s rumbling tummies because the kids clubs provide meals inside the club during the day.
Sign up for our daily newsletter
Older kids have their own shipboard spaces. Edge is Disney’s tween club for those ages 11 to 14, where guided activities, like video game competitions and dance parties, take place daily. Edge is located inside the faux forward funnel on Disney Dream, so it feels exclusive.
Teens ages 14 to 17 can enjoy Vibe, where they’ll learn how to make movies or watch them on the 103-inch TV. Disney Dream also has a private sundeck for teens, which is only accessible with a Vibe-coded room keycard. (Be sure to check in at Vibe on embarkation day to ensure your teen’s room key will allow them into the deck area.) Both Edge and Vibe have a free come-and-go policy, so kids can enjoy the spaces as they want without parents having to check them in or out.
No matter which club your kids hang out in, they will have plenty of fun, and parents can rest assured that if anything happens, the counselors know what to do. They have access to every phone number for Disney-led port excursions, so if your child has an emergency and the ship can’t reach you directly, Disney can call the tour operator.
If you are touring ports on your own, inform the counselors of your plans and give them your best contact information on embarkation day.
Disney Cruise Line offers both family-friendly and adults-only shore excursions
Disney’s shore excursions in Europe cater to all types of travelers and desired experiences with family-friendly and adults-only options.
Grown-ups who may be traveling without kids or have dropped their children off at the kids clubs can enjoy tours designated for cruisers ages 18 and older. The adults-only tours often move at a faster pace, so pack your walking shoes if you plan to do a heavy day of sightseeing, especially in cities like Rome or Athens.
Adults will find that excursions through Disney Cruise Line encompass a wide range of interests, from wine tastings and local food tours to venturing into historical sites. There are even some adventure sports like riding ATVs.
If traveling with young kids, book the tours labeled “for families” or “featuring exclusive youth activity” early since they fill up quickly.
Related: Shore excursions: What new cruisers need to know
Family tours are often less strenuous than the traditional or adults-only departures, allowing for little legs to keep up with the group. They feature longer breaks or time on your own, so kids can get a rest and perk up with a sweet treat, like gelato in Italy.
Tours labeled with the phrase “featuring exclusive youth activity” will include time for adults and kids to have separate activities. One of the options with this label is a tour of Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast, where kids learn how to make pizza at a local restaurant with the help of the Disney Cruise Line youth counselors while parents enjoy time on their own or on a guided tour. Everyone comes back together for lunch.
Booking shore excursions through Disney Cruise Line also guarantees that you won’t be left behind in a foreign city if your tour runs late getting back to the ship.
Casual dining options are plentiful after long days of sightseeing
After a long day sightseeing in port, the last thing your kids want to do is sit through a long dinner in one of Disney’s three main dining rooms. This means finding dinner elsewhere on the ship, which is easy thanks to Disney’s quick-service options on the pool decks.
Families can grab a quick bite from three “Cars”-themed service windows at Flo’s Cafe every evening. The menus here are packed with kid-friendly favorites, such as chicken tenders, burgers, salads, wraps, pizza and more. Flo’s also has sandwich specials that change daily, including tasty options like spicy fried chicken and pulled pork.
You can be in and out in 15 to 20 minutes and then have time to see the nighttime shows or get to bed early before another day of exploration in a new port.
Alternatively, families can order room service, which is included in the cost of your Disney Dream cruise. Room service can take a while to arrive if you, like hundreds of your shipmates, are ordering during peak dinner hours. However, the joy of eating dinner in your pajamas in a space where kids can squirm freely may be just what your family needs after a long day off the ship.
Related: 12 dining mistakes you must fix on your next cruise
Pro-tip: If you’re a chicken wing connoisseur, Disney Cruise Line has some of the best wings at sea on its room service menu. They are crispy and juicy, served piping hot, and the buffalo sauce is spicy.
If your family wants to eat in the main dining room, and you’re on the early seating rotation, Disney offers some leniency on longer port days when tours tend to return to the ship late. A ship officer or dining team member will often be out on the pier announcing that the main dining rooms are still seating guests until a certain cut-off time. If your family can make it to your assigned dining room in time, you can enjoy a meal there.
Just know that if you miss a dinner show one night, there’s no second opportunity to see it again, even on longer sailings. So, if your family is set on seeing or participating in a certain dinner show, like “Animation Magic” – where you draw a figure on a special sheet of paper and it comes to life on screens around Animator’s Palate – you will want to ask your dining team which night that show is being performed.
The cruise ship is a familiar home base with plenty of Disney charm
Visiting new cities and towns can be as draining as it is exciting. Riding for hours in a bus and walking around all day in the warm European sun can wear out both adults and kids. Also, the stress of navigating different languages and unfamiliar cities can be unsettling if you’re not used to it. That’s why it’s nice to have a friendly home base for your travels on a Disney cruise ship.
One of the biggest perks to cruising, in general, is that you unpack once. You don’t need to deal with the hassle of packing up and swapping hotels mid-trip.
Upon returning to the ship each day, children can enter a familiar world where they have their stuff set up how they like in their cabin, they can interact with their favorite Disney characters, and they can join friends in the kids clubs to play games and swap stories about the day’s adventures. Parents can relax and not worry about where to eat dinner in a strange city.
Around the ship, families will find plenty of familiar Disney fun, so evenings are easy and carefree. Most nights, families can watch a live performance in the main Walt Disney Theater or catch a movie in the Buena Vista Theater, including newly released movies currently playing in theaters at home.
Related: 26 Disney cruise tips, tricks, secrets and extra magic to unlock when setting sail with Mickey
If your kids are into meeting characters, they are in for a treat. Mickey Mouse and all his pals will dress up in themed outfits for the various European ports of call and come to the ship’s public spaces for meet-and-greets.
The Disney princesses are also onboard to greet everyone and pose for photos. They also host tea parties, but parents be warned, the tea party is an added cost, and reservations fill up quickly.
Of course, no Disney cruise is complete without a deck party or two. On select Mediterranean sailings, fireworks will light up the sky over the Mediterranean Sea with Disney’s iconic Pirate Night deck party.
Travelers can bookend cruises with Adventures by Disney short escapes
Extending your stay in Europe is a great way to take advantage of flying halfway around the world to get on a Disney cruise. Take the hassle out of planning what to do before or after your cruise by booking an Adventures by Disney guided tour.
Families with kids ages 5 and older are allowed to book, though Adventures by Disney does suggest that kids are at least 6 years old. Children under 5 are not permitted on these tours.
The tours take place in Barcelona, London and Rome, all of which have associated ports that Disney Cruise Line sails from throughout its European season. The guided tours include meals, hotel accommodations, transportation to and from the ship and tours of the major sites in each city.
Escapes in Barcelona are four days long. Families can enjoy a privately guided tour of La Sagrada Família cathedral and Parque Güell, plus time at the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona and the medieval abbey, Santa Maria de Montserrat.
If your cruise departs from Civitavecchia, Italy, the Rome escape may be a fun add-on to your trip. The four-day tour includes a VIP Colosseum tour, a tour of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums, and plenty of time to explore the city on your own.
Families departing on Disney Cruise Line from Southampton, England, can book the London escape, which is only three days. The trip starts with a high-speed boat ride on the River Thames and dinner at a local pub. Other activities on the tour include a private viewing of the Crown Jewels, afternoon tea and a private tour of St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Bottom line
Whether you’re a cruise pro or sailing around Europe for the first time, Disney Cruise Line makes sailing the historic coastlines of Europe easy and fun for families.
The ship makes for a familiar home base, with plenty of activities for kids and adults. The cruise line’s shore excursions satisfy the interests of families exploring together while providing options for adults who need a more grownup experience in port. Just be sure to pack your walking shoes and a positive attitude!
You might not put Ohio at the top of your list when thinking about ideal places to live, but don’t discount Columbus. It’s an accommodating and friendly city full of food, culture and fun. All the amenities are there for any seasoned city dweller, but it’s also a perfect spot for families and those just heading out into the world.
The cost of living in Columbus is 11.1 percent below the national average and also significantly below the state average, making it one of the least expensive cities in the state.
If you’re ready to investigate Columbus’ potential for your next place of residence, check out how the cost of living really breaks down and what your estimated monthly costs might look like.
Housing costs in Columbus
Although prices are rising, housing costs in Columbus are pretty accessible. Overall, housing is 20.5 percent below the national average. This aligns with other Ohio cities, which, even with a higher overall cost of living, still keep housing prices on the lower end. Columbus is almost even with Cincinnati in this area, and it’s less than a percentage point below Dayton.
This percentage puts Columbus rent and housing prices in a good place for those seeking a new apartment. The average one-bedroom is up 9 percent since last year but is only about $1,300 per month. For a two-bedroom apartment, prices are up 3 percent, with the average monthly rent being $1,470. These prices are relatively similar to Columbus’ housing cost partner, Cincinnati, where a one-bed apartment has an average price of $1,390.
If home ownership is on your to-do list, the median sale price in Columbus is $253,000 up about 6 percent over last year.
Apartment hunting in Columbus
Even with median rent prices leaning toward the more reasonable side of one’s budget, you’ll find a lot of variety in cost when looking at different neighborhoods. What’s nice though is that there are popular Columbus communities at almost every price point.
Toward the higher end, you’ll find Short North. Far from the most expensive spot (that honor goes to Victorian Village), Short North has an average one-bedroom rent of $1,530. Considered the city’s arts district, and sitting beside Downtown, you’ll find a lot of art galleries, boutiques and lively restaurants.
For rents that stick closer to the average, check out the Arena District and the University District. Also close to Downtown, one-bedroom apartments in the Arena District average out at $1,350. Another vibrant neighborhood, full of bars and restaurants, the Arena District gets its name because Nationwide Arena, home of the local NHL team, is here.
By comparison, one-bedroom apartments in the University District average out to $1,545 per month in monthly rent. This community includes the Ohio State campus and a ton of places that cater to a college population. It’s a busy spot to live in, but with a lot of potential for fun.
Food costs in Columbus
Food is pretty important to Columbus locals, and serving up dishes associated with the area means great food is coming your way. Of course, the area is all about its buckeye candy, but it also has other signature items such as the Ohioana. This hot dog comes with spicy corn relish, sweet corn, pickle relish, jalapeño and celery salt. Yum.
The cost of living in Columbus when it comes to food, is 4.1 percent below the national average. This puts the city in a pretty good place when it comes to your grocery bill. For comparison, Cleveland is almost 10 percent higher with a rate that’s 5.4 percent over the national average.
What this means, when you need to go shopping to stock your fridge and pantry, is that a dozen eggs will cost you $2, while a bunch of bananas will go for $0.58. A loaf of bread will ring up around $4.14, and a box of cereal will cost $4.49.
Utility costs in Columbus
Columbus weather is a bit of a lesson in the extremes. Summers can be long and humid, and very warm, while winters are cold and snowy. Temperatures can vary from the mid-to-high 80s in the summer, down to the low 20s in winter.
What this impacts, besides your need to own a snow shovel, is your gas and electric bills. Overall, the utility costs in Columbus are 6.3 percent below the national average. This is about five percent less than the cost of living index in Cleveland and Dayton. Even with this more affordable rate overall, you’ll still pay an estimated electricity bill of $163.96.
Transportation costs in Columbus
Another perk of living in Columbus is its high bike and walk scores. This means, at least in certain parts, you can rely on your own two feet (or two wheels) to get around town in your new city, reducing your transportation expenses. Columbus’ bike score is 63 and walk score is 61.
The city also has a decent public transportation system. The Central Ohio Transportation Authority, or COTA, operates almost 80 bus lines throughout the area. The single-trip fare is $2, but you can buy a day pass for $4.50 or a 31-day pass for $62.
If you can’t part with your car, Columbus recently got rid of its parking meters in favor of mobile payments. You now pay by plate either through an app or using a kiosk. Expect to pay about $1 per hour.
All combined, the cost of living in Columbus when it comes to transportation is 13.1 percent below the national average. This is exceptionally affordable considering the percentage dropped by 3.8 points over last year.
Healthcare costs in Columbus
In Columbus, one of the most affordable pieces to your cost of living is healthcare. Here, it’s 16.5 percent below the national average, with a 2.9 percent dip over last year. This puts healthcare expenses in Columbus at some of the most affordable in the state. Dayton, for example, has healthcare costs that are 18.2 percent higher.
You can expect to pay an average cost of $117.90, without insurance, to see a doctor in Columbus. For a teeth cleaning, the average cost is $87.63, and an optometrist visit is $60.27. If you have prescription medication, the average monthly cost, without insurance, is $399.60.
Of course, every person’s specific healthcare costs will vary based on personal health, pre-existing conditions and insurance coverage, but understanding what the averages are can help make it easier to estimate an individual budget.
Goods and services costs in Columbus
So many items fit into the goods and services category of the cost of living in Columbus. The easiest way to sum this category up is to think of all the things you budget for that you enjoy doing, but aren’t absolutely necessary. Many goods and services are what you pause doing when money gets tight.
Thankfully, at 5.8 percent below the national average, and at the lower end of costs for Ohio, you should still be able to enjoy most of your extras. This could include your regular trip to the salon ($42.50), a weekly yoga class ($18.60), a ticket to see the latest action flick in theaters ($11.56) or even that six-pack of beer ($10.49) that you’re taking with you to a friend’s house.
Taxes in Columbus
While sales tax varies in Ohio by county, each area starts off paying 5.75 percent, the state rate. In Columbus, there’s an added county tax and a small special tax, bringing the total up to 7.5 percent. This isn’t the highest sales tax in Ohio, as Cleveland wins that award at 8 percent, but it comes close.
What this means for you while you’re shopping is that for every $1,000 you spend, $75 of it goes straight to taxes.
How much do I need to earn to live in Columbus?
If you look at what the experts tell you about crafting a budget, your biggest expense will always be rent. In fact, around 30 percent of your income should go to this one expense each year.
To calculate what that means for someone living in Columbus, let’s assume you’re a single person renting an average one-bedroom apartment at about $1,315 per month. With that number as our starting point, you’d need to make an average salary of $52,600 a year.
This is most certainly doable given that the median household income in Columbus is $54,902. However, if you want more specific numbers for crafting your own budget, make sure to use our rent calculator.
Free things to do in Columbus
Another great thing about Columbus is the city’s ability to offer up unique and fun experiences without costing you a penny. If you do crunch those numbers and realize your budget may be tight for a while, enjoy some free fun in the city, and maybe learn a little something new.
For some free outdoor fun (and a little exercise) visit Goodale Park in the Victorian Village neighborhood. This 32-acre park is the oldest in the city.
If you love cartoons, you can get into the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum for free. This special place is home to the largest comic and cartoon collection in the world.
Tour the Ohio Statehouse and get a taste of some local history. The building is beautiful both inside and out.
Stop and smell the roses at the Park of Roses. This public park has around 12,000 roses landscaped into three gardens. You’ll also find perennials and herb gardens within the park’s 13 acres.
There are also a variety of museums with free admission or free admission days on the Ohio State University campus. The Billy Ireland Museum is one, but you can also get free access any time to the Orton Geological Museum and the Wexner Center for the Arts. The downtown area of Columbus also offers a variety of free places to visit including those that explore the arts, local history and culture.
Living in Columbus
So, are you surprised at how much Columbus has to offer at such an affordable cost of living? These aren’t all the city’s important secrets either, and the best way to get to know somewhere like Columbus is to go. Are you ready?
The Cost of Living Index comes from coli.org.
The rent information included in this summary is based on a calculation of multifamily rental property inventory on Rent. as of November 2022.
Rent prices are for illustrative purposes only. This information does not constitute a pricing guarantee or financial advice related to the rental market.
The rest of the country is catching on to what Montanans have always known — it’s a beautiful and affordable place to live, and not as wild as it seems on the show, “Yellowstone.”
Montana is known as The Treasure State for its literal on-site treasures, like silver, gold, sapphire and so on. But it’s a hidden gem for many more reasons than that. First, it’s home to some of the most stunning and unspoiled landscapes in the country. For the more practical renter, however, much of the state falls well below the national average in cost of living.
Affordable beauty? Yes, please! Here are some of the best places to live in Montana, and they’re about as wide and varied for a state that sports so much land.
Population: 54,539
1-BR median rent: $2,257
2-BR median rent: $2,532
Median home price: $693,000
Median household income: $67,354
Life in the southern Montana city of Bozeman splits the difference between big-city and rural living. As the fourth-largest city in the state, apartments in Bozeman can be found at a range of price points and styles.
Termed the “most livable place” in Montana, Bozeman has plenty to offer people of diverse interests. Obviously, its proximity to the legendary Yellowstone National Park begets its people access to all kinds of outdoor activities. That said, Bozeman has also cultivated impressive nightlife opportunities for a city its size, not to mention a booming cultural scene complete with art galleries, museums and a symphony.
Bozeman boasts a great selection of housing options, especially when it comes to luxury rentals like Icon Apartment Homes at Ferguson Farm, 19th and Graf and Madison Park, all of which feature up-to-date rentals with plenty of upgrades.
Population: 117,445
1-BR median rent: $1,341
2-BR median rent: $1,513
Median home price: $360,000
Median household income: $63,608
Billings is far and away the most populated city in Montana by tens of thousands of people. Living in Billings is obviously more affordable than in Bozeman, a welcome revelation for the renter looking for a good value. Also found on the southern end of the state, Billings keeps its local population entertained via a spate of events, such as the Yellowstone International Air Shot, MontanaFair and the Magic City Blues Festival, among others. There are also plenty of spas and such to help a local relax following a tough day hiking the trails or climbing rock faces.
There are plenty of apartment options in Billings, from a furnished studio at Billings-West End to one of the more spacious options at Interurban Apartment Homes or Farmstead Apartments.
Population: 34,786
1-BR median rent: $900
2-BR median rent: $950
Median home price: $250,000
Median household income: $50,661
Life in Butte is a picturesque one, as the smaller city is found right between Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park. It features some of the best fishing and boating opportunities in the world, not to mention more than a dozen scenic trailheads for hiking, jogging and biking.
Butte’s restaurant scene is larger and more diverse than one would expect from a city its size, including a variety of chain spots mixed in with locally owned and operated eateries. The film industry is also alive and well in Butte as more and more television shows and movies are choosing to set up shop there.
Butte’s apartment scene is a bit more limited than some of the larger Montana cities, but there are still plenty of places to lay your head. This three-bedroom unit has clearly been renovated recently, and this spacious two-bedroom apartment rents for far less per month than the same type of unit would in another city.
Population: 33,120
1-BR median rent: $999
2-BR median rent: $1,175
Median home price: $430,000
Median household income: $59,712
The capital city of Montana is small but mighty. It’s similar in both population and price point to Butte, making it ideal for people who want some neighbors, but not too many.
It’s one of the historic centerpieces of the state and has a lot of attractions to prove it. The lovingly maintained downtown area has a colorful history, best told by any of the walking tour experts available for hire. Then there’s the stunning Mansion District, which is an experience all on its own. Just north of the city are the significant “Gates of the Mountains,” a stop on Lewis and Clark’s historic exploration route, which can be viewed via boat tour. That’s all in addition to the locally owned shopping, dining and other establishments that have become the norm for quaint towns like this one.
Apartments in Helena are available at all price points, including the ideally located Element 79 Apartments, which is close to so many coffee shops and restaurants. Or, there are plenty of units within larger houses to look at. Inventory is lower given the size of the city, but the patient renter can find something to suit and prove the wait worthwhile.
Population: 60,403
1-BR median rent: $1,290
2-BR median rent: $1,595
Median home price: $255,000
Median household income: $53,126
Living in Great Falls doesn’t require as much in the bank compared with some other Montana cities, as the median home price is lower to match a slightly lower median income. So named for the stunning waterfalls, courtesy of the Missouri River, the area is home to the state’s largest urban Native American population and is also the site of the Little Shell Chippewa tribe’s headquarters.
Indeed, Great Falls, like many other areas of the country, has a sad history related to Native Americans, but today’s citizens do their best to preserve the complicated history and encourage the traditions to continue. Locals appreciate the four distinct seasons that the area enjoys, with cold winters but delightfully mild summertime temps. It’s easy to stay busy year-round with tons of scenic drives, trailheads, outdoor activities and festivals to choose from.
Much like other cities in Montana, there aren’t a ton of huge apartment communities to choose from. One good traditional option is Talus Apartments, which has multiple floor plans and a lot of the standard amenities that renters have come to expect. Or, there are furnished units available at Sunnyside Apartments.
Population: 74,822
1-BR median rent: $1,295
2-BR median rent: $1,595
Median home price: $542,000
Median household income: $54,423
Just east of the Idaho border on Montana’s western edge is Missoula, a mid-sized city with big aspirations. Buying a home in Missoula is a pricier prospect than it is in a lot of other parts of the state, with a median home price of $542,000.
It’s not as pricey as Bozeman, but it’s nipping at its heels. Fortunately, there are lots of other reasons people choose to live in Missoula. First, it’s still pretty affordable to rent an apartment in Missoula. It’s also a generally fun and whimsical place to hang out. Shoppers and fans of local goods love to bundle up and hit Missoula’s Winter Market, held at the Fairgrounds. Then there are plenty of hot springs to soak in, gold and gems to mine and even ghost towns to tour.
812 Toole Ave sometimes has chic units available for rent, and 712 Spruce St also has apartment options at a range of price points. Once again, availability is a bit limited as Missoula is far from what people would refer to as the “big city.”
Population: 26,110
1-BR median rent: $1,250
2-BR median rent: $1,650
Median home price: $499,000
Median household income: $55,411
Unlike many other cities on our list, the city of Kalispell is located in the northwestern corner of the state. Only 32 miles from Glacier National Park, this mountain town is also home to the western U.S.’s largest natural freshwater lake, Lake Flathead. Obviously, between the two there is an abundance of outdoor activities to enjoy in Kalispell and its stunning surrounding areas.
Locals and visitors also love to stroll the quaint area of downtown Kalispell for food, shopping and general ambiance. The area is also ultra-friendly to dogs and families, thanks to an abundance of parks and recreation opportunities.
For a city its size, Kalispell actually has a nice range of apartment homes to consider. The Meridian Apartments is a pet-friendly, smoke-free establishment that features beautiful in-unit flooring. Or there’s Stillwater Crossing, which offers covered carports, video monitoring and lots of design upgrades.
Population: 8,492
1-BR median rent: $1,400
2-BR median rent: $1,850
Median home price: $913,000
Median household income: $64,595
The housing market is booming in the city of Whitefish, which has a median home price of $913,000, up more than 30 percent since last year. Situated around Whitefish Lake, this city is a popular ski destination but sees tourism year-round thanks to its proximity to Glacier National Park.
For all of the athletic endeavors that can be enjoyed here, there’s also an exceptional arts and culture scene. The Whitefish Theatre Company puts on shows regularly ranging from plays to musicals. Boating enthusiasts in particular flock to the area’s Whitefish Woody Weekend, specifically put on to showcase classic boats. So although Whitefish boasts some of the best skiing in the world, it also has a lot of other things going for it.
Fortunately, apartment rents in Whitefish haven’t inflated the same way as local real estate has. The new construction units at Whitefish Apartment Homes are pristine and ideally located. Or there are a number of individual units available for rent, like this one on Cottonwood Ct.
Population: 9,491
1-BR median rent: n/a
2-BR median rent: $806
Median home price: n/a
Median household income: $44,809
Only slightly larger than Whitefish is the southwestern Montana city of Anaconda. Known for its iconic smokestack, the city of Anaconda is one of Montana’s best-kept secrets. Originally, Anaconda grew as a result of copper mining in nearby Butte, as Anaconda became the site of critical copper smelting jobs.
Like most of the rest of the state, Anaconda is firmly ensconced in some serious natural beauty. It’s found in the Deer Lodge National Forest, so there’s obviously plenty of outdoor fun to be had. A bit of modern sport is also available at the Old Works Golf Course, however.
Anaconda’s a pretty small city by most people’s standards, so rental options are somewhat limited. There are single units available if you know where to look, such as this one on 4th Street and this one on Locust Street.
Find an apartment for rent in Montana
Montana is thoroughly its own state, thanks to its unique beauty and culture. Anyone who’s interested in adopting a quieter, but still exciting way of life should consider looking at apartments for rent in Montana.
Methodology
The rent information included in this summary is based on a median calculation of multifamily rental property inventory on Apartment Guide and Rent.com as of April 2023.
Median home prices are from Redfin as of April 2023. Population and median household income are from the U.S. Census Bureau.
The information in this article is for illustrative purposes only. This data herein does not constitute a pricing guarantee or financial advice related to the rental market.
One of the top problems I hear from website owners is that they can’t seem to get enough page views.
I completely get it.
You can write all the blog posts you want, but if no one reads them then it would be hard to make money.
Even after 10 years of blogging, traffic is something that I work on nearly every single week.
See, there are always new things to learn. The online world is constantly evolving, which means that you have to stay up to date and find new ways to grow.
It’s one of the harder things about blogging, but I do love it.
While growing a website is hard work, I am extremely grateful for the business that I have built. I am able to work whenever I want, I work from home, I can travel whenever, I am able to spend all the time that I can with my family, and I am able to retire early.
And, if it weren’t for all of my wonderful readers, this wouldn’t be possible.
If you are wanting to make money with your website, then I highly recommend learning about the different ways you can get page views.
If you are looking to grow your website, then I highly recommend finding a few trainings from this year’s BC Stack that interest you. This ends tomorrow, so don’t miss out! How to get over $5,000 in website traffic trainings for only $49.
Once a year, this popular bundle of resources goes on sale, with new products, to teach you all about blogging and running your own online business.
Many of you purchased this last year, and it’s back again. With all NEW courses and resources! So, even if you purchased last year’s, you’ll want to take a look at this year’s bundle because everything is new.
This year’s BC Stack is entirely focused on traffic and pageviews. With this year’s BC Stack, you can learn how to drive page views and traffic with 65 different strategies.
This stack of trainings will teach you how to get traffic from:
Updating your old blog posts
Pinterest
Emails
Podcasting
Live speaking
Facebook groups
Instagram
Eventbrite
SEO
YouTube
TikTok
Media features
Social media ads
And so much more!
Some of the trainings included in this year’s BC Stack are:
How to Boost Your Blog Traffic with Low Competition Keywords by Cate Rosales ($47 value)
Facebook Group Growth Masterclass: Learn how to Build a Thriving Group and Turbocharge Targeted Traffic Towards Your Offers by Jennifer Henczel ($997 value)
Drive Traffic with TikTok – The Secrets to Growing Your Community with Short-Form Video by Ken Course ($195 value)
SEO Optimized Blog Post Template Pack by Lucrezia Iapichino ($47 value)
2023 Blogger Breakthrough Summit Audio Pass by Elizabeth Stapleton ($49 value)
AI Traffic Mastery by Dwayne Jeffries ($297 value)
Grow Your Biz By Speaking At Events by Crissy Heron ($67 value)
Get High-Quality Traffic from Partners by Ellen Finkelstein ($247 value)
Easy Content Makeover: How to Double Your Traffic without Making New Content by Nick Loper ($97 value)
Use Virtual Summits to Drive Traffic and Grow Your Biz by Ray Brehm ($497 value)
Traffic: Eyeballs and Opportunities by Piggy Makes Bank ($208 value)
The SEO Content Writing Course by Heather Ritchie ($67 value)
How To Guide on Creating Traffic To Grow Your Business by Dan Miller ($17 value)
Insta Leads Generation by Cat Griffin ($147 value)
Peeling Back the Layers: Products and Placement Strategies for Driving Traffic to Your Amazon Influencer Content by Liz Saunders ($29 value)
Increase Your Podcast Traffic with SEO & Video by Krystal Proffit ($97 value)
CLICK CLICK BOOM: Accelerate Your Website Traffic for Explosive Growth by Chad Fullerton ($29 value)
What if you could go live and sell your products in record time? by Sunni Hearin ($97 value)
Write & Publish Your Way to More Traffic by Donna Kozik ($299 value)
Facebook & Instagram Ad Bootcamp by Amanda Robinson ($475 value)
Grow Without Social Media: Eventbrite by Monica Monfre ($57 value)
Quora Keyword Mastery by Christopher Kokoski ($47 value)
YouTube Ads Made Easy by Chris Lockwood ($39 value)
ETSY SEO by Etsy Expert Cherina Booker
So You Wanna Be In A Bundle by Michelle Francik ($17 value)
How to Use Media Coverage to Increase Sales and Grow your Brand by Lauren Cobello
Turn Traffic into Email and Email into Traffic by Angela Wills ($45 value)
Traffic from Pinterest 2023 by Carly Campbell ($47 value)
YouTube Traffic Secrets: 23 Proven YouTube Traffic Tactics for 2023! by Lou Bortone
Turn Podcast Listeners into Subscriber Traffic by Stacy Zant $97 value)
Starting SEO using free tools by Lisa Atkinson ($57 value)
Funnel Workshop: Increasing Traffic + Revenue with a Self-Liquidating Offer by Magan Ward ($47 value)
Game Changing Prompts to Boost Your Traffic by Denise Wakeman and Andy O’Bryan ($97 value)
Social Media Mastery: Driving Epic Traffic and Conversions by Lori Lyons ($497 value)
Pin With AI: A Time-Saving Strategy to Grow Your Reach by Katie Hart ($27 value)
Printables Pinning Academy by Becky Beach ($147 value)
Fast Track Your Blog Traffic by Arfa Nazeer ($35 value)
Boost Your Opt In Traffic by Jan Small ($37 value)
Optimize your Social Media for Business by Natalie Suppes ($200 value)
Find Your Audience by Naima Sheik ($37 value)
Etsy Printable Shop Traffic Accelerator Course by Carmen Chan ($47 value)
Whether you’re a blogger, book author, have a sales page, created a course, host a podcast, have an Etsy store, or have some other type of business, it’s important to know how to drive traffic to your website.
Remember, with the BC Stack, you can get over $10,000 in online business/blogging resources for only $49. This stack of trainings ends this week.
Here are some of the trainings I personally signed up for and am currently enjoying:
Easy Content Makeover: How to Double Your Traffic without Making New Content ($97 value) – This is the training I am most excited about, and I have already gone through a few lessons and highly recommend it. If you have been blogging for awhile, then you can probably make some small changes to update your old content and dramatically increase traffic. The posts that you have written months or years ago can probably be improved so that Google can notice them. This is a great and fast way to improve the blog posts that you already have, instead of creating new content.
Get High-Quality Traffic from Partners ($247 value) – Learn how to get traffic from partners who recommend what you’re offering. In 6 videos, you’ll see how it’s done, and you’ll get forms, calendars, and other tools to help you get started.
Boost Your Opt In Traffic ($37 value) – This is a top question I get – How can I get traffic to my email list? Here’s how to get traffic to your opt-in freebie offers. Get all the traffic you need to grow your list with this 37-page Opt-in Traffic workbook and checklist with 33 quick traffic boost ideas for even more traffic.
SEO Optimized Blog Post Template Pack ($47 value) – With this comprehensive package of structured frameworks, templates, resources, and proven strategies on your side, you will streamline your blog post creation and optimization process, improve click-through rates, boost your website’s visibility, increase your organic traffic, and generate more revenue.
Write & Publish Your Way to More Traffic ($299 value) – Create a welcome jam of visitors to your site, blog, podcast or Facebook group using the power of publishing. During this workshop conducted by USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Donna Kozik, you’ll discover the strategies and tactics to draw in interested readers, listeners and customers.
Grow Without Social Media: Eventbrite ($57 value) – What if you could create a workshop once and generate revenue from it on repeat? You absolutely can and it is much easier than you think! Join Monica Monfre, multiple six figure entrepreneur and master teacher, to learn how to take your expert knowledge and use Eventbrite to make sales on repeat.
Traffic from Pinterest 2023 ($47 value) – This is a training pointing out things that are affecting Pinterest traffic right now (June 2023). It is a fascinating look at the Pinterest algorithm including keywords, colors, styles, and other things that affect your ability to get massive traffic from Pinterest. (Carly gets 100,000+ visits/month from Pinterest)
Group Growth Masterclass: Learn how to Build a Thriving Group and Turbocharge Targeted Traffic Towards Your Offers ($997 value) – Are you ready to take your business to new heights and unlock the true potential of Facebook Groups? If you haven’t tapped into this powerful resource yet, now is the time to start. Build your credibility while building your community. Attract your ideal audience and drive traffic to your offers.
Click here to check out the BC Stack.
FAQs about BC Stack
Here are some common questions I’ve received:
What is the BC Stack? – The BC Stack is a bundle of 65 courses, products, and trainings that will help you get traffic to your online business, website, or blog.
“Why am I able to get 65 courses and resources for only $49?” – The bundle is a low price because the creators of each resource are using it as an opportunity to get their name in front of thousands of new readers.
Who is the BC Stack for? – The BC Stack is for people who have a podcast, blog, online business, e-commerce store, coaching business, and more. Whether you are just getting started with your business or if you have been doing it for years, you can benefit from the BC Stack as there are many valuable resources in this bundle of resources that can help you to improve your business.
Can I buy the BC Stack after it ends? – No, you cannot buy the bundle afterwards. The doors only open once a year. This is because there is an agreement/contract with the contributors – that the BC Stack is only open for a limited time due to the low pricing.
Do I have to get the items right away? Do I get to keep them forever? – There are a couple items that are memberships which you get for a fixed period of time, like 6 months or a year. Otherwise the rest are yours forever. Now, you have to grab/register/join/download the items in the next 60 days. The downloads page comes down after that. Just grab the stuff in the next 60 days and it is yours forever.
“Which products will I receive?” You will receive access to all of them that are listed on the sales page (all trainings and resources!).
“How do I access and/or download the products in BC Stack?” Once you purchase BC Stack you will receive an email with a link to the downloads page. All instructions on how to access them are in the email and on the downloads page. It’s easy.
BC Stack Review – 2023
“Is it worth it?”
Okay, so you may be thinking that this deal sounds too good to be true. I understand that there are over 60 resources in this bundle and you may even be overwhelmed thinking about that.
I know that most people won’t take them all, but you have the option to take all for the low $49 price. Even if you could just pick one, two, or three resources from this bundle, you would be getting a valuable deal out of it.
For me, I am already signed up for many different trainings and I know that it will be worthwhile for me.