A new initiative spearheaded by mayor Michael Bloomberg aims to provide free legal aid to New York City residents facing foreclosure.
The so-called “NYC Service Legal Outreach” will support homeowners with free legal assistance during the mandatory settlement conference stage, which is a meeting between the bank/mortgage lender and homeowner where foreclosure alternatives are negotiated.
Such conferences give homeowners an opportunity to avoid foreclosure, and the presence of legal representatives will likely improve a homeowner’s chances.
The NYC Service Legal Outreach program intends to recruit 300 volunteer attorneys over the next three months – 100 will be stationed at courthouses to screen homeowners and provide counsel.
An additional 200 attorneys will be directly matched with individual homeowners and will advocate for the homeowners throughout the foreclosure settlement process.
“The City’s legal community has a long, proud history of pro bono work, and we are tapping into that tradition to bolster our comprehensive effort to prevent foreclosures,” said NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg, in a release.
“The City has not been hit as hard as some other areas by the foreclosure crisis, in part due to our efforts, but we are seeing a serious impact. No family facing the loss of their home should be without representation.”
Last year, there were 20,773 foreclosure filings in New York City, up from roughly 14,000 in 2007 and 2008.
That compares to less than 7,000 foreclosure filings in the City in 2004.
The NYC neighborhoods most impacted by foreclosure filings include Jamaica, Bellrose/Rosedale, Flatlands/Canarsie, East New York and the North Shore of Staten Island.
Homeowners facing foreclosure who are interested in retaining free legal services should go to www.nyc.gov or call 311.
This week, we interviewed Bryan Chong from PocketBuildings.
Without further ado…
Who are you and what do you do?
Thanks for including me as part of this series. My name’s Bryan Chong and I’m the co-founder and CEO of PocketBuildings. PocketBuildings is a platform that allows commercial real estate professionals to develop, manage, and transact faster by organizing the extensive visual content for their portfolios
What problem does your product/service solve?
Not long ago, visual information for a building consisted of paper plans and photographs. Now there are AutoCAD files, drone videos, 360 photos, 3D models, virtual tours, time-lapse photography, not to mention the new technologies on the horizon.
When my co-founder, Greg Moulton, and I were working together at a Google spinoff, we saw CRE companies having real difficulties managing all this new visual information. Files were everywhere — with the architect, the property manager, the broker, the photographer, corporate drives, or in random Dropbox accounts. Even when the files could be located, the user often lacked the needed software to open them or the access links were expired. Hosting and sharing visual data is an ongoing problem for commercial real estate professionals, so we created PocketBuildings.
PocketBuildings is a user-friendly platform where CRE companies upload their visual content – floor plans, photos, videos – to create building profiles. We’ve eliminated the constant searching and emailing to track down information. Everything is stored in one easy-to-access location that is secure, visually appealing, and simple to share.
What are you most excited about right now?
It’s such an exciting time to be in real estate technology. I’m most excited about the iPhone 12 Pro. When Apple added lidar, it marked the beginning of reality capture for the masses. No longer do you need to be an engineer or architect to have access to the technology needed to digitize your building. There’s a growing trend of remotely performing tasks – like measurements, estimates, and due diligence – and the new iPhone capabilities will help accelerate digitally showcasing and visually sharing information about a property.
What’s next for you?
We’re very excited about the release of our mobile app next month. Afterward, we’re turning our attention to building customized tools that allow CRE professionals to quickly and easily perform their unique day-to-day tasks. When people see PocketBuildings for the first time, they often envision using it for a unique purpose. What someone in marketing might do with a building’s visual data is quite different from someone in asset management, property management, or design and construction. Our platform will be easily customizable to meet different users’ needs.
What’s a cause you’re passionate about and why?
I’ve always been passionate about building design and town planning. For the past 13 years, I’ve been a volunteer member of my town’s Design Review Board. The board serves the citizens of the community and through it I can “think globally, act locally” – a concept attributed to town planner and social activist Patrick Geddes. Long before governments began enforcing environmental laws, individuals were coming together as part of grassroots efforts to protect habitats and the organisms that live within them. It’s been immensely rewarding to be involved with town planning in my local community.
Thanks to Bryan for sharing his story. If you’d like to connect, find him on LinkedIn here.
We’re constantly looking for great real estate tech entrepreneurs to feature. If that’s you, please read this post — then drop us a line (Community @ geekestate dot com).
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If you have ever shopped for a life insurance policy, then you may be well aware of just how important this type of coverage is to your overall financial planning. That is because, without it, you could be leaving your loved ones or other survivors at risk of financial hardship.
Before purchasing a life insurance plan, though, there are some different criteria that you will need to keep in mind. The type and the amount of coverage are certainly key. Yet, while most people are aware of these factors, what many are not aware of is that the company through which you purchase your life insurance can be equally important.
This is because the ratings of the life insurance companies you consider should be strong and stable financially – and it should be able to pay out its policyholder claims if and when the time should come. Otherwise, your loved ones could be left without the proceeds that they were counting on to move forward. One life insurer that has a long-standing reputation in the industry for paying out as promised is the Guardian Life Insurance Company.
The History of Guardian Life Insurance Company
The Guardian Life Insurance Company has been providing insurance coverage to its policyholders since 1860. This New York-based insurer began with a group of 21 business men, who started a company called the Germania Life Insurance Company of America with $200,000 in initial equity capital. At the time, this was double the amount of funds that was required by the state of New York for staring an insurance carrier.
With that, from the very beginning, Guardian Life Insurance Company – also known as “The Guardian” – proved its commitment to financial strength. Doing so has also proven beneficial to the company’s policyholders throughout the years.
Over time, in the early 1900s, the company changed its name to The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America. It has also expanded over time through both the acquisition of other carriers, as well as by adding new products to its line of wealth expansion and protection mix. Presently, Guardian Life Insurance Company is considered to be one of the largest and financially strong mutual life insurance companies in the U.S.
Guardian Life Insurance Company Review
Due to both its size and financial strength, Guardian Life Insurance Company is listed on the Fortune 250 global financial services companies. The insurer provides a variety of different financial and insurance products that are offered via more than 3,000 reps throughout the United States.
At the end of 2015, The Guardian held roughly $82 billion in assets under management and approximately $565 of life insurance in force. Throughout 2015, the company paid out approximately $5.6 billion in insurance benefits to its policyholders and / or their beneficiaries.
As a mutual insurer, The Guardian also pays out dividends to its policyholders – and in the year 2015, the company declared more than $838 million, while that same year taking in roughly $19 billion in insurance premiums and deposits.
While Guardian Life Insurance Company provides financial stability to the policyholders that it serves, the company also provides support in other ways – such as through corporate citizenship and community involvement. Also, many of the company’s employees volunteer their time via educational and community events in a wide variety of different areas.
Guardian Life Insurance Company Ratings and Better Business Bureau Grade
Due to its financial strength and stability, The Guardian Life Insurance Company has been given very high ratings from the insurer rating agencies (as of December 31, 2015). These include:
A++ (Superior) from A.M. Best Company. This is the highest possible rating out of 15 total.
AA+ (Very Strong) from Fitch. This is the second highest possible rating out of 21 total.
Aa2 (Excellent) from Moody’s. This is the third highest possible rating out of 21 total.
AA+ (Very Strong) from Standard & Poor’s. This is the second highest possible rating out of 22 total.
The Guardian Life Insurance Company also has a Comdex Rating of 98.
Also, The Guardian has been an accredited business through the Better Business Bureau since January 1, 1957, and it has been given a grade of A+ (on a possible grade scale of A+ through F).
The Guardian, throughout the past three years, has also closed 55 total complaints through the Better Business Bureau – 20 of which have been closed within the past 12 months. Of these 55 complaints, 36 had to do with the company’s products and / or services, 13 dealt with billing and / or collections issues, four had to do with advertising and / or sales issues, and two were in regards to delivery issues.
Life Insurance Products Offered By Guardian
The Guardian offers a wide range of life insurance products to choose from. This can be a great way for clients to build a life insurance strategy to better suit their needs. It can also help clients to revise their coverage as their needs may change over time.
Coverage that is offered is both term and permanent. These products include the following:
Term Insurance Offered By Guardian
Term life insurance is coverage that provides death benefit coverage without cash value build up. Because of this, term life insurance can be fairly affordable. These types of policies – as the name implies – are offered for a certain period or “term.”
Many people consider term life insurance as “temporary” coverage because it can be purchased for a certain time frame and can, therefore, be bought to cover for certain needs, such as paying off the balance of a mortgage.
Many term life insurance policies will allow the insured to add additional riders in order to enhance the coverage. Also, some term policies will also allow the insured to convert the policy over into a permanent insurance policy (within certain guidelines) – often without having to prove insurability or take a medical exam.
Permanent Life Insurance Offered By Guardian
Permanent life insurance policies are also offered through Guardian. With permanent coverage, there is both death benefit protection, as well as a cash value or savings component. The cash that is in the cash value is allowed to grow without being taxed unless or until it is withdrawn. This is referred to as being tax-deferred.
There are several different types of permanent life insurance policies to choose from. One of these is whole life insurance. With whole life, both the death benefit coverage and the premium on the policies are guaranteed. Also, the cash value in the policy will grow at a set rate of interest. Whole life policies are intended to last for the “whole of the insured’s life” – as long as the premium is paid.
There is also universal life insurance. A universal life insurance policy provides death benefit protection and cash value. However, these plans are considered to be more flexible than whole life insurance. This is because a universal life insurance policyholder may be able to choose how much of his or her premium dollars can go into the cash value component, and how much will go towards the death benefit.
Another offshoot of universal life is variable universal life insurance. Here, the cash value can be invested in equities such as mutual funds. This means that there is the opportunity for substantial growth within the cash portion of the policy. However, this also means that there can be more risk in the event of a market downturn.
Other Coverage Products Offered
Guardian Life Insurance Company offers many other products which can enhance and protect the financial lives of its customers. Just some of these include:
Investments
Employee Benefits
Disability Insurance
Dental Insurance
Annuities
How to Get the Best Life Insurance Premium Quotes
If you are looking for the best life insurance quotes, then working with an agency or a company that has access to more than just one single life insurer is typically the way to go. This is because doing so; you will be able to compare policies, benefits, and prices of multiple possibilities – and then determine which will be the best option for you.
When you are ready to proceed in looking for the right life insurance coverage for you – at the very best price – we can help. We work with many of the top life insurers in the market today, and we can assist you with obtaining all of the information that you need. All you need to do to get started is fill out the quote form on the side of this page.
Inside: Looking for fun things to do with friends? Look no further! This guide has 101 fun activities for you and your friends to enjoy. From painting parties to bowling nights, there’s something for everyone.
Do you ever feel like you’re in a rut, doing the same things with your friends all the time?
If you’re looking for some new ideas for fun things to do with friends, look no further!
We’ve compiled a list of fun activities for friends to do so you can find something that fits your mood.
Whether you want to get active and try something new, or stay in and relax together, we’ve got you covered.
So round up your besties and get ready for some fun!
Why spending time with friends is important
Spending time with friends is an essential aspect of human life. It provides us with an opportunity to bond, socialize, and create lasting memories.
The benefits of spending time with friends are numerous, and they range from improving our social skills to reducing stress levels.
By participating in activities that allow us to spend quality time with our friends, we will have better overall mental health.
What should friends do for fun?
There is no one answer to this question, as friends can have different interests and preferences.
However, some fun activities that friends could do together include going to the movies, playing sports, going out to eat, or attending a concert.
That is why we will cover so many various ideas for you and your friends!
The fun things to Do with Friends
We all know the importance of having friends in our lives. They are the people we rely on and confide in. They make us laugh, help us when we’re down, and are always there for us.
If you are wondering what should I do today, then we have you covered.
So, it’s important to have plenty of fun things to do with friends as well.
1. Go on a Scavenger Hunt
Scavenger hunts are a popular group activity that can be enjoyed by friends of all ages.
Planning and executing a scavenger hunt with friends can be a fun and engaging way to spend time together.
To get started, choose a location that offers a variety of interesting sights and sounds.
Next, create a list of items to find, such as a red bicycle or a funny sign.
Divide into teams and set a time limit for the hunt.
Use a special hashtag and have each team post a pic every time an item is found.
Nowadays, you can even buy a scavenger hunt kit to make it easier!
2. Play Board Games
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Board games are a great way for friends to have fun and connect with each other.
Some popular board games include Scrabble, Chess, and Monopoly, but there are many other options to choose from. Card games like poker and blackjack are also great choices. Party games like Charades and Apples to Apples can bring a lot of laughter and enjoyment.
Board games provide an opportunity for friends to engage in friendly competition, improve their strategic thinking and social skills, and have a great time together.
So, gather your friends, choose one of the best-selling board games, and let the fun begin!
3. Explore street food
Exploring street food with friends is an exciting way to satisfy your taste buds while spending quality time with your loved ones. From food trucks to pop-up stands, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Here are three street food examples that are worth finding:
Tacos: Bite into the crispy shell and savor the juicy meat, fresh salsa, and creamy guacamole. Tacos are the perfect combination of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more.
Gyros: Sink your teeth into the warm pita bread and taste the tender slices of meat, crunchy vegetables, and tangy tzatziki sauce. Gyros are a delicious Greek dish that will transport you to the Mediterranean with every bite.
Bao buns: Savor the fluffy steamed bun filled with savory meat, pickled vegetables, and sweet sauce. Bao buns are a popular street food item in Asia that will tantalize your taste buds with their unique flavors and textures.
Exploring street food with friends is an adventure that will take you on a gastronomic journey around the world. You can try new dishes, share your opinions, and bond over your love of food.
The joy of exploring street food with friends lies in discovering hidden gems, trying something new, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
4. Get Messy with a Color Run
Participating in a color run is a unique and exciting way to stay fit while having fun with your friends.
This 5K run involves getting covered in colored powder while running through different stations. It’s a great way to stay active and create some memorable photos with your friends.
Plus, you get to support a good cause since many color runs are organized as charity events.
5. Watch a Movie Marathon
A movie marathon with friends is a fun way to bond and enjoy each other’s company. They provide a fun and relaxing environment to enjoy each other’s company and appreciate great films.
To plan and execute a successful movie marathon, follow these steps:
Choose a theme or movie series: Decide on a theme or movie series that everyone will enjoy. This could be a specific genre, actor, or movie franchise like “Harry Potter” or “Star Wars.” Or just pick a variety of old classics and new favorites.
Prepare snacks and refreshments: Popcorn, pizza, and soda are classic movie snacks, but feel free to get creative with your choices. You could even have a potluck and have everyone bring their favorite snack to share.
Arrange the viewing space: Make sure the viewing space is comfortable and has enough seating for everyone. Consider using blankets and pillows to create a cozy atmosphere.
So, grab some popcorn and gather your friends for a movie marathon that you’ll never forget!
The best movies can be found on Paramount Plus!
6. See What Festivals Are in Town
Attending festivals with friends can be a fun and unique activity to break up your routine. There are many different types of festivals to choose from, including food, music, art, and film festivals.
Additionally, there are usually free local events like food festivals, music festivals, farmers’ markets, and intercultural events.
Planning ahead and checking the festival schedule is important to ensure that all friends can attend. So why not gather your friends and try attending a festival together?
7. Hike
Hiking is a fantastic way to stay active and enjoy the great outdoors with friends.
Not only does it provide a great workout, but it also offers the opportunity to bond with your crew while surrounded by natural beauty.
You can even plan on these fantastic hiking trails for beginners or more experienced hikers:
In California, Big Basin Redwoods State Park offers a variety of trails ranging from easy to challenging, with the highlight being the 11-mile Skyline to the Sea Trail.
In Colorado, the Mount Falcon Park Trail offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and is a moderate 3.6-mile hike.
For those on the East Coast, the Franconia Ridge Trail in New Hampshire is a challenging yet rewarding 8.9-mile hike with breathtaking views of the White Mountains.
Remember to dress appropriately for the weather and terrain, wear sturdy hiking boots, carry plenty of water, and pack snacks to keep your energy levels up.
8. Go for a short road trip
Planning a road trip with friends can be a bonding experience, from working together on a collaborative Spotify playlist or burning some old-fashioned mixtapes to listen to on the road to stocking up on snacks and booking an Airbnb.
Going for a short road trip with friends is an excellent way to take a break from the daily grind and explore new places. It is also a reason to escape life’s hustles and bustles.
A spontaneous road trip might turn out to be a trip to remember as you explore unknown routes, stop at scenic spots, and try the local cuisine.
9. Host a Vision Board Party
A vision board is a visual representation of your goals and aspirations for the future.
Making a dream board with friends can be a fun and inspiring activity that promotes deeper social connections while helping you achieve your dreams.
It’s a crafting and manifesting activity that can help you visualize your dreams and work towards them with the support of your friends.
Learn how to host a successful vision board party.
10. Make Smoothies Together
Making smoothies with friends is a fun and healthy activity that promotes bonding and trying out new recipes.
You will need fresh or frozen fruits, such as bananas, strawberries, or blueberries, a liquid base like almond milk or coconut water, and optional add-ins like spinach, chia seeds, or protein powder to make smoothies.
Personally, I have found the Vitamix to blend the perfect smoothie!
11. Have a Karaoke Night
Karaoke is a great way to build confidence and create lasting memories with friends, so don’t be afraid to let loose and have a good time!
To host a successful karaoke night, start by choosing a venue such as a karaoke bar or setting up a karaoke machine at home.
Provide drinks and snacks to keep energy levels high and make sure to take plenty of photos and videos to capture the fun.
12. Have a Potluck Dinner
Having a potluck dinner with friends is a fun and affordable way to spend time together while enjoying delicious food.
To organize a successful potluck, consider the following tips:
Set a date and theme: Choose a date that works for everyone and select a theme to make the potluck more exciting. Some ideas for themes include Italian food, comfort food, or secret family recipes.
Assign dishes: Encourage everyone to bring a dish to share, and assign specific types of dishes to avoid duplicates. For example, one person can bring an appetizer, another a main course, and another a dessert.
Communicate and coordinate: Make sure everyone knows what they’re bringing and communicate any dietary restrictions or allergies. Coordinate with each other to ensure a good variety of dishes and avoid too many of the same thing.
A potluck is a great way to try new foods and bond over shared experiences. It’s also a money-saver and takes the pressure off one single host.
13. Skateboard/Roller-skate
Skateboarding and roller-skating are not only fun but also great ways to build friendships and community.
There are numerous activities that can be done while skateboarding or roller-skating with friends like:
Trying out tricks and stunts with friends can be a great way to learn and improve your skills.
Racing with friends can add an element of competition and excitement to the activity.
Obstacle courses can also be set up to test your agility and coordination.
Freestyle sessions can allow for creativity and self-expression.
Doing these activities with friends can provide support, encouragement, and a sense of camaraderie.
14. Have a DIY spa day
Spa days with friends are a fantastic way to bond, relax and practice self-care. It offers a break from the stress of daily life and provides opportunities for quality time together.
Moreover, hosting a spa day at home is a more affordable alternative to going to an actual spa.
You can confer with your BFF and figure out what kind of spa treatments both of you are in the mood for. For example, you can apply face masks, give each other manicures, or soak your feet in bath salts.
If you have the funds, you could even book a couple of treatments at a real spa and make it a real spa day! Regardless of where you have it, having a spa day with friends is an excellent way to relax, rejuvenate, and bond with friends.
15. Have a Craft Night
You don’t have to be crafty to enjoy craft night!
To have a successful craft night, start by choosing a craft that everyone is interested in and gather all the necessary supplies. A few craft ideas that are perfect for a craft night include making jewelry, painting, scrapbooking, or even DIY home decor.
Once you have everything set up, encourage everyone to let their creativity flow and enjoy the process of making something together.
Make sure to create a comfortable atmosphere by providing plenty of space to work and snacks to munch on.
16. Blow Bubbles
Roll by the time calendar and remember how much fun blowing bubbles was!
Blowing bubbles is a great way to spend a lazy afternoon or unwind after a long day.
You can go with the classic way of blowing bubbles or look into a bubble machine!
So, grab some bubble solution and wands and get ready for a fun and bubbly time with your friends!
17. Have a Water Balloon Fight
Water balloon fights are a fun activity to indulge in during the scorching heat of summer.
To make the water balloon fight even more enjoyable, you can incorporate team play or set up a tournament bracket. This will add a competitive element to the game and make it more exciting.
Regardless, having a water balloon fight with friends is a great way to beat the heat and have fun.
18. Plant a Garden
Gardening with friends is a rewarding activity that allows you to connect with nature and each other.
Plus it can also provide a sense of accomplishment and a source of fresh produce.
You can choose to plant a garden in someone’s backyard or join a local CSA.
Also, this is a continuous way to get together!
19. Spend Time in Nature
Spending time in nature with friends is a great way to relax, recharge and create lasting memories.
There are a variety of activities that friends can engage in while spending time in nature such as hiking, camping, picnicking, rock climbing, paddleboarding, and gardening.
Personally, know that spending time in nature with friends can be a refreshing and rewarding experience that allows friends to bond and enjoy the great outdoors together.
20. Sign up for a Recreational Sport
Signing up for a recreational sport is a great way to spend time with friends while staying active. There are many sports that are suitable for recreational leagues and can be played with friends, such as soccer, basketball, volleyball, and ultimate frisbee.
Playing team sports has many benefits, including building camaraderie, improving communication, and developing a sense of teamwork.
Costs associated with joining a league can vary, but many leagues have affordable fees.
21. Go Kayaking
Kayaking is a fantastic outdoor activity that is gaining popularity among friends who want to bond and have fun at the same time. It provides a great opportunity to explore new waterways, race each other, play games, fish, and take breaks to swim.
While kayaking, you and your friends can discover new places and enjoy the serenity of nature, which will help you to relax and forget about your daily worries.
Also, you have to work on your communication with each other while kayaking.
22. Cook Together
Cooking with friends can be a fun and rewarding activity that helps build strong bonds.
This is one of my favorite ways to spend time with friends. You can spend hours and never actually make anything edible and it doesn’t matter! Or you can create something absolutely delicious!
23. Join a Club
Joining a club with friends is a great way to try new things and meet new people.
There are many different types of clubs to choose from, including:
Book clubs
Hiking clubs
Cooking clubs
Bunco groups, and more.
Joining a club with friends not only provides an opportunity for shared experiences and new adventures but can also strengthen relationships by creating a common interest. Plus you meet on a regular schedule for spending time together.
24. Have a Painting Party
Painting artwork with friends can be a fun and fulfilling activity. Even better, plan to host a painting party with friends!
You hire someone with experience to help you out or you can watch a video on YouTube.
The best part is being able to exchange ideas and inspiration with each other to spark creativity!
25. Play Laser Tag
Playing laser tag with friends is a thrilling and exciting activity that is sure to get your adrenaline pumping.
This is always a must-do for most teens!
Playing laser tag with friends not only provides a fun and memorable experience, but it also helps build teamwork skills, promotes physical activity, and fosters friendly competition.
26. Go Birdwatching
Birdwatching is a relaxing and enjoyable activity that can be done with friends to appreciate the beauty of nature and learn about different bird species.
All you need to go birdwatching with friends is a simple guide to birds in your area, a pair of binoculars, bird seed, and a park or garden.
Birdwatching can enhance the bond between friends as they learn to identify different bird species and discover a new hobby together. It is a great opportunity to explore new trails, take pictures, and enjoy the scenic location.
27. Have a Marshmallow Fight
Marshmallow fights with friends are a fun and exciting activity that can help you forget your worries and bond with your friends.
You need a good laugh, right? This is exactly what you should participate in.
It’s a great way to relieve stress and enjoy some friendly competition with your friends.
So, grab some marshmallows, find a safe spot, and get ready for an unforgettable marshmallow fight with your friends!
Make sure to grab this indoor s’more kit!
28. Do Yoga
Yoga is a great way to improve flexibility, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being. Doing yoga in a class with friends or in a park can make the experience even more enjoyable and motivating.
Attending a yoga class with friends can be a fun and social way to exercise. You can encourage each other to push yourselves further and hold each other accountable for attendance. Additionally, practicing yoga in a group setting can help to create a sense of community and support, which can be beneficial for mental health.
Alternatively, practicing yoga in a park can be a great way to connect with nature and enjoy the fresh air and sunlight. You can bring your own mat or towel and find a quiet spot to practice. Practicing yoga outdoors can be a refreshing change of pace from the usual indoor studio setting.
29. Plan a Trip
Planning a trip with friends can be an exciting and bonding experience. It provides an opportunity to create unforgettable memories and explore new places with your closest friends.
However, it can also be expensive, so use this 100 envelope challenge to save for the trip.
Another way to save money is to be flexible with your travel dates.
Research your destination, create a budget, and be flexible with your travel dates to save money. With some dedication and effort, you and your friends can have the trip of a lifetime. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination.
30. Explore a New Town
Exploring a new town with friends is an adventure that offers new opportunities to learn more about each other’s interests and create lasting memories. It allows you to discover new places, try local cuisine, and learn about the history and culture of the area.
When exploring a new town with friends, you can visit local landmarks such as museums, botanical gardens, and historical sites. You can also attend local events such as festivals, concerts, and fairs.
Don’t forget to try the local cuisine at restaurants and cafes.
31. Paint Pottery
Pottery painting is a popular activity to do with friends that allows you to unleash your creativity.
Thankfully, you can go to a business that provides all of the necessary supplies or you can purchase online.
Painting pottery can also be a relaxing and therapeutic activity that helps to reduce stress and anxiety.
32. Try a New Food
Let’s be honest… If it wasn’t for good friends, you may be missing out on different types of foods and cuisines.
Trying new foods with friends is an excellent way to break up your eating routine and have some fun while discovering new flavors.
So step out of your comfort zone and try something new – you never know what delicious dishes you might discover!
33. Visit a Farmer’s Market
Visiting a farmer’s market with friends is a fun and exciting way to spend a day outdoors. Not only does it support local businesses, but it also provides an opportunity to stock up on fresh fruits and vegetables.
Did you know the Palisade Farmer’s Market is one of the best in the country? I can attest to that; it was wonderful, especially during peach season.
There are many activities to enjoy at a farmer’s market with friends, here are my favorites:
Shopping for fresh produce: One of the main reasons to visit the farmer’s market is to stock up on fresh fruits and vegetables. You can compare prices, sample different varieties, and even learn new recipes from the vendors.
Trying free samples: Many vendors offer free samples of their products, from homemade jams to artisanal cheeses. This is a great way to taste new flavors and support local businesses.
Exploring local crafts: Along with food, many farmer’s markets also feature handmade crafts and artisanal products. You can browse jewelry, pottery, candles, and other unique items.
Eating street food: If you’re hungry, there are often food trucks and stalls selling everything from tacos to crepes. You can grab a bite to eat and enjoy it at one of the picnic tables or benches.
So why not gather your friends and head to a farmer’s market? You won’t regret it!
34. Compete with Minute-to-Win-It Games
This one is popular! Competing with Minute-to-Win-It games is a fun and easy way to spend time with friends while challenging each other’s skills.
To get started, gather a few household items and set a timer for one minute.
These games are not only a great way to have fun with friends, but they also improve hand-eye coordination and quick-thinking skills.
Plus this is a low-cost and entertaining way to bond with friends. Give them a try and see who comes out on top!
35. Host a DIY Escape Room
If you are looking for a cost-effective way to enjoy an escape room challenge with friends, setting up your own escape room at home is a great idea.
You can find free missions at Escape Team, and additional missions only cost a few dollars each.
Hosting a DIY escape room for your friends is an excellent way to challenge their problem-solving and teamwork skills in a fun and engaging way.
36. Join a Flash Mob
Joining a flash mob can be an exciting and memorable thing to do with your friends. Flash mobs are spontaneous gatherings of people who come together to perform a predetermined action, often in a public place.
Typically, flash mobs can range from dance performances to singing events and can involve people of all ages and backgrounds.
Participating in a flash mob can be a unique and fun experience that you and your friends can cross off your bucket list.
You can find local flash mob announcements by searching on Google or checking out websites that list flash mobs in your area.
37. Create a Time Capsule
Creating a time capsule with friends is an exciting and unique way to capture memories and special moments together. It allows you to reminisce about the past and look forward to opening the capsule in the future.
To create a time capsule, start by finding a sturdy waterproof container.
Next, gather items that are important to each of you, such as letters to your future self, photos, ticket stubs, and other mementos.
Add these items to the capsule and bury the capsule in a safe place, such as a backyard or a park.
Make a pact to open it up in a few years, say five or ten years or twenty years.
Cherishing memories with friends is important, and creating a time capsule is a fun and meaningful way to do just that.
38. Head to the Beach
Visiting the beach with friends is a great way to spend quality time together while enjoying the beauty of nature. There are many activities you can do with your friends at the beach, such as lounging under an umbrella, playing beach volleyball, building sandcastles, or having a picnic.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can go surfing, snorkeling, or take a walk along the shore. The possibilities are endless, and the memories you create with your friends will last a lifetime.
Whether you want to relax and unwind or have an action-packed day, the beach offers something for everyone.
39. Try an Art Class
Trying an art class with friends is a fun and fulfilling way to explore your creative side.
There are many places you can try painting or pottery! by going with a friend, it cuts out the scary risk of doing a creative project alone.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to create something beautiful with your friends! This is a great experience gift idea, too!
40. Go Bowling
Bowling is a fun and engaging activity to do with friends.
Not only is it a great way to get some exercise, but it also offers a variety of fun things to do while playing. From trying trick shots to competing for the highest score, bowling is a great way to bond with friends.
Bowling is a fun and engaging activity that everyone can enjoy, regardless of their skill level.
41. Use Guest Passes
Typically, when you belong to a gym, museum, or any other membership-based activity. They will offer free guest passes.
This is a great way to hang out with your friends while enjoying a new activity. Or showing your friend one of your hobbies.
42. Go Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is a winter activity that involves walking on snow with specialized footwear. It is a fun and unique way to explore the outdoors with friends while enjoying the beauty of nature.
There are many snowshoeing trails and locations that friends can explore together.
Snowshoeing provides an opportunity to get exercise, enjoy the peacefulness of nature, and bond with friends.
43. Get Creative With Sidewalk Chalk
Regardless of age, sidewalk chalk is a fun activity to do with friends that can ignite your creativity and bring out your inner artist.
There are a variety of ways to get creative with sidewalk chalk.
You can draw a hopscotch board and challenge each other to see who can jump the longest.
Create a masterpiece by working together on a huge drawing and experimenting with different styles and themes.
Play a game of tic-tac-toe and enjoy some friendly competition.
You can even use sidewalk chalk to write positive messages or quotes to inspire each other.
Spending quality time with friends is important, and simple activities like using sidewalk chalk can create lasting memories.
44. Have a Cocktail Party
Overall, the goal of a cocktail party with friends is to have fun and create shared experiences that will be remembered for years to come.
The best cocktail parties are based on a theme that will set the tone for the evening. Then, select a variety of easy-to-make and crowd-pleasing cocktails that will impress your guests.
Dress up smartly, put on some music, and decorate your space to match the theme. Provide snacks such as finger foods, cheese platters, and charcuterie boards to accompany the drinks.
During the party, encourage guests to mingle and try each other’s cocktails, while sharing conversation and laughter.
45. Go to a Drive-in Movie
Drive-in movies are a unique and fun experience that makes for a great activity to do with friends.
However, drive-in movie theaters are harder and harder to find. So, you may have to plan ahead for a local showing.
Once you arrive, park your car and settle in for the movie, chatting and joking around with your friends as you watch.
46. Meditate
Meditating with friends can be a powerful way to connect and improve your mental and emotional well-being.
To get started, find a quiet spot in nature, set up a blanket, and close your eyes. Take in the natural sounds as you sit in silence together.
Alternatively, you can attend a group meditation or breathwork session or hold a moon circle.
The benefits of meditating with friends include reducing stress and anxiety, improving focus and concentration, and deepening your connection with others.
47. Have an Insta Photoshoot
One of the best things about having a photoshoot with friends is that it offers you the opportunity to create memories together.
You can make funny faces, strike silly poses, and capture the moment in a photograph. You can also dress up in costumes and enact your favorite movie scenes together, which is bound to create some beautiful memories.
Whether you are looking to be goofy or play model, a photoshoot is an excellent way to express yourself and have some fun. You don’t necessarily have to photograph people either! You can experiment with still-life photography, food photoshoots, or even take pictures of landscapes.
P.S. You will always see teens taking photoshoots around town.
48. Play charades or Pictionary
Playing charades or Pictionary with friends is indeed a fun way to build excitement and laughter within the group while also improving communication skills and teamwork.
These guessing games are perfect for group activities and can elicit lots of shouting and laughter as people try to guess the correct word or movie.
You can even form teams and start a tournament to make it more interesting. Alternatively, card games such as poker, blackjack, spoons, and rummy are also fun and cost nothing to play if you already have a deck of cards.
All of these games can help improve your strategic thinking and social skills while having a great time with friends.
49. Make videos together
Indeed, making videos with friends can be a fun and exciting activity that creates lasting memories. There are many different types of videos that can be made with friends, such as music videos, vlogs, or short films.
The research suggests that enacting favorite movie scenes with friends can uplift the atmosphere as well. Dressing the part, rehearsing together, and video shooting the entire set can create fun moments that are bound to create some beautiful memories.
Making videos with friends can strengthen friendships and develop new skills such as video production and editing. The key is to have fun with your best friends and enjoy the time spent together.
50. Start a Band
If you and your friends have instruments, getting together and making music can be a fantastic way to bond and express yourselves while also encouraging collaboration and teamwork.
Creating music together is an excellent opportunity to learn new skills and experiment with different musical styles.
Plus, it helps create unforgettable memories and offers new opportunities to learn.
51. Create a Photo Album
In our digital age, putting together a photo album is another fabulous activity that you can do with friends.
Asking each friend to contribute a few photos and putting them in a friendship photo album is an excellent way to keep your memories close and spend an afternoon with your best friends.
Plus you are creating something you can enjoy for years to come!
52. Have a pillow fight
Having a pillow fight with friends can be a hilarious bonding experience that will make you forget all your worries.
To get started, find a spacious room or outdoor area where you can safely swing your pillows without breaking anything. Before starting the fight, agree on some basic rules to ensure everyone’s safety, such as no hitting in the face or aiming for sensitive areas.
Once you’re ready, grab your pillow and let the feathers fly! Don’t forget to laugh, scream, and dodge as you try to land a hit on your friends.
53. Attend park concerts
Attending park concerts is one of the best fun things to do with friends.
Not only are they affordable or free of charge, but they also offer a great opportunity to relax and unwind with friends.
This is something to enjoy after long work weeks!
54. Start a Business
Starting a business with friends can be a great way to combine your passions and skills while also earning extra income.
However, before jumping into any business venture with friends, it’s important to consider the potential risks and challenges. It’s crucial to have a clear agreement and plan in place to avoid conflicts and misunderstandings in the future.
Another option is to research side hustles as a great way to earn extra income. There are numerous side hustle ideas that can be done with friends such as dog walking, pet sitting, house cleaning, and tutoring.
Learning how to make money online for beginners is a hot topic.
55. Play Tourist in Your Own Town
Playing tourist in your own town can be a great way to spend time with friends while discovering new sights and experiences. There’s no need to travel far when there are plenty of activities to do in your hometown.
To start, visit local landmarks such as museums, historical sites, or city parks. These places offer a glimpse into the history and culture of your town.
Try out new restaurants and cafes that you haven’t been to before. It’s a great opportunity to sample local cuisine and support small businesses.
Attending local events such as concerts, festivals, or farmer’s markets can also be a fun way to experience your town.
Exploring the outdoors by taking a hike, bike ride, or even a picnic in a nearby park can be a refreshing change of pace.
Playing tourist in your own town not only allows you to discover new places but also strengthens friendships by creating shared memories and experiences.
56. Play games via video call
Playing games with friends remotely is indeed a great way to stay connected despite the distance.
There are various options available for playing games online with friends, such as board games, card games, and online games like Fortnite or Minecraft. Additionally, apps like Words with Friends or Yahtzee with Buddies can also be used to play games with friends remotely.
If you prefer non-digital games, you could play games like “Would You Rather?” or “Truth or Dare?” on a video call.
Playing games with friends online is an excellent way to spend time together and maintain a strong connection, even when you can’t be together physically.
57. Go to a bonfire
Going to a bonfire with friends is a fun and memorable activity that allows for bonding through storytelling, laughter, and shared experiences. Honestly, I forgot how fun a bonfire was until I went last weekend!
A bonfire is an outdoor gathering around a fire, typically held on a crisp fall evening.
With the hot temperatures and risk of fires, I would plan to attend a bonfire put on by an organization with fire trucks readily available.
Ensure there are snacks and drinks, and follow safety precautions. Overall, a bonfire with friends is a great way to escape the monotony of life and create lasting memories.
58. Bake something delicious together
Baking with friends is indeed a fun and exciting activity that can bring people closer together. It provides an opportunity to bond and share a sweet treat afterward.
One can choose a recipe they would like to try, whether it’s an old standby or something brand new. A cake, a sweet fruit pie, or a few batches of favorite cookies are some of the options that one can bake and decorate.
Alternatively, holding a friendly bake-off is a good way to bond competitively with friends.
So, next time you’re looking for something fun to do with your friends, why not try baking together?
59. Go camping together
Camping with friends is an excellent way to bond and enjoy the outdoors while disconnecting from technology. It is a cheap and fun hobby that offers numerous benefits, including strengthening friendships.
Whether you choose to camp in a nearby park or your backyard, sharing stories around a campfire, cooking meals together, and exploring nature can be a healthy move for everyone to unwind.
Camping provides an opportunity to enjoy the serenity of nature away from the disruptions of city life. You can hitch a tent, make a bonfire, roast some marshmallows, and play games, which is sure to be an adventure away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
It is important to plan ahead, bring necessary supplies, and follow safety precautions to ensure a fun and safe camping experience.
60. Go Geocaching
One of our personal favorite activities.
Geocaching is a fun and exciting activity that involves using GPS to find hidden containers or “caches” outdoors. It’s like a real-life treasure hunt that can be enjoyed with friends.
To get started, one can download the official Geocaching app for free.
Geocaching can be a great way to explore new places in your local area with friends while having fun. With GPS coordinates, you can search for hidden treasures that are waiting to be discovered.
61. Go to A Local Coffee Shop
Going to a local coffee shop is a great way to spend quality time with friends. Aside from being a cliche, it is an easy thing to do and offers a comfortable environment to catch up with your friends.
You can order your favorite beverage and indulge in a little slice of cake while chatting about everything you have missed since you last spoke.
A coffee shop offers a cozy and relaxed atmosphere, which makes it a perfect spot to hang out with friends.
Going to a local coffee shop also supports small businesses in your community. It is also a great way to discover new cafes and coffee shops in your area, which can become your new favorite hangout spot.
62. Volunteer
Volunteering with friends is a great way to give back to the community while having fun with your pals.
There are various ways friends can volunteer together, such as helping out at a local animal shelter, sprucing up city landscaping, or serving meals at a soup kitchen.
Volunteering with friends strengthens relationships, gives back to the community, and is a fun way to do good.
These are the best ways to capture your bucket list and find ideas!
FAQ
There are a number of things you can do right now with friends. You can go for coffee, take a walk, or visit a museum. You could also consider doing something more active, such as going for a run or playing a sport.
Whatever you choose to do, make sure you enjoy it and spend time with your friends.
The important thing is to find something that you both enjoy so that you can have fun together.
You can watch a movie, play video games, go for a walk, listen to music, or even just sit and talk.
What Fun Places to Go with Friends Will You Choose?
These unique activities are just a few examples of the many fun things you can do with your friends.
Don’t be afraid to try something new and get creative! Who knows, you might just discover a new favorite activity.
A little short on cash? Don’t worry… here are 101 things to do with no money.
So, gather your friends and start planning your next adventure together.
And if you have any unique ideas of your own, be sure to share them in the comments below!
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
Symetra Life Insurance Company boasts more than half a century of offering life insurance coverage to valued clients. Over time, this insurer has exceeded $35 billion in assets and 2 million clients throughout the United States.
Symetra has its headquarters in Bellevue, Washington, while the company sells its products in all states excluding New York.
Established in 1957, the insurer has made many strides in the insurance and financial industry. For example, in 1976, Symetra pioneered the medical stop-loss product – which today is a key product in the medical insurance marketplace.
In 1987, Symetra started selling its annuity products through the banking channel, and in 1999, exceeded the $30 billion mark of life insurance in force. In 2004, the insurer transitioned into an independent company – Symetra Financial Corporation, and in 2016, it joined Sumitomo Life, a global life insurer.
The products sold by Symetra Life Insurance Company are offered through brokers and financial advisors, banks, and a network of independent insurance agents.
The primary products provided through Symetra include life insurance protection, along with annuities, retirement, employee benefits, and medical stop-loss insurance coverage.
Symetra Life Insurance Company Review
Today, Symetra is owned by parent company Sumitomo Life – which is considered to be one of the most prominent life insurance companies in Japan. The parent company has been in operation for over 100 years. Both Symetra and Sumitomo Life have total assets surpassing $250 billion.
Symetra Life Insurance is currently recognized as a Top 3 seller of fixed deferred and fixed indexed annuities through banks. It is also a Top 40 U.S. life insurance company, based on admitted assets. In 2015, the company brought in roughly $2.2 billion in total revenues and nearly $147 million in net income.
In addition to offering insurance and financial products, Symetra is committed to the community. In 2015, Symetra contributed to nearly 900 charitable organizations, and its employees invested roughly 8,500 hours of volunteer service.
The company also does a great deal of advertising and sponsorship – including its Sports Illustrated Rising Stars campaign, The Symetra Tour – Road to the LPGA, the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom, and the “I Just Want to Fly,” highlighting the insurer’s commitment to helping people and businesses with reaching higher and flying further to attain their financial goals.
Symetra Life Insurance Company Ratings and Grades
A (Excellent) from A.M. Best. This is the 3rd highest rating out of a possible 16.
A (Strong) from Standard & Poor’s. This is the 6th highest rating out of a possible 21.
A2 (Good) from Moody’s Investor Services. This is the 6th highest rating out of a possible 21 and puts them in good company with Globe Life Insurance.
A (Strong) from Fitch. This is the 6th highest rating out of a possible 19.
Types of Life Insurance Available
Symetra Life Insurance Company brings a variety of life insurance products to the table.
This can be helpful for clients when fitting coverage to meet their specific protection needs.
The company offers term and permanent life insurance plans.
Term Life
Term life insurance provides pure death benefit coverage only. Because term does not include cash value, these policies are typically more financially feasible than comparable permanent coverage – all other factors being equal.
Term life insurance policies are purchased for a set period of time, such as ten years, 15 years, 20 years, or even for 30 years. The term plans offered through Symetra Life Insurance Company offer level premiums throughout the initial period. This can make these plans easy to budget for because the premium won’t budge during the initial policy’s term.
With these term policies, the policyholder may also have the option to convert the coverage over to a permanent life insurance policy without the need to prove insurability – or even having to answer any medical questions. Doing so can extend life insurance protection for the remainder of the insured’s lifetime – provided that premiums continue to be paid.
If the insured is diagnosed with a terminal disease, he or she may also be eligible to receive no more than 75% of the death benefit from their policy while still living – up to $500,000. This can allow the insured to pay for medical expenses or other outstanding bills and puts them ahead of Primerica life insurance for an all-encompassing term policy.
Symetra Life Insurance Company’s term life insurance policies also offer some additional riders that may be added to better meet an insured’s protection needs.
These riders are:
Insured Children’s Benefit
Additional Term Rider
Waiver of Premium
Accidental Death Benefit
Permanent Life
The permanent life insurance policies offered through Symetra Life Insurance Company provide an insured with a guaranteed death benefit, in addition to a cash value element. In other words, loved ones will be protected, while at the same time allowing tax-deferred build-up of savings within the policy.
There are a number of different permanent policies offered by Symetra:
Symetra UL-G Universal Life Insurance – The UL-G policy is a universal life plan. In other words, the policyholder has some flexibility when it comes to how much of the premium payment will go toward the death benefit, and how much will go toward the cash value component. Individuals who are between the age of 16 and 85 can apply for this plan, and it has a minimum death benefit of $50,000. There are also a number of optional riders available that may be added to fit the insured’s protection needs. Also, the amount of the premium may be reduced if the insured is between the age of 20 and 70, and he or she qualifies for Symetra’s GoodLife Rewards program.
Symetra SUL-G Survivorship Universal Life Insurance – The SUL-G is also a universal insurance policy that offers a guaranteed death benefit, in addition to ensuring that legacy planning goals are being met. This policy can also be a good option for estate planning and wealth transfer, as well as for business protection needs. It includes a lapse protection benefit so the policyholder can ensure the policy will be in force for as long as he or she would like.
Symetra CAUL Universal Life Insurance – This type of policy offers lifetime protection that can be tailored to an insured’s objectives, no matter if it is lifetime insurance protection or primarily cash value accumulation. This policy offers flexible premium payments and death benefit options, including the ability to use cash value as a future financial cushion for things like retirement income and/or paying off debts.
Symetra Universal Life Insurance (2008) – With Symetra Life Insurance (2008), an insured will get lifetime insurance coverage at a fixed cost. As a result, loved ones are now financially secure. This policy also offers several additional riders that can help with further customizing the insurance policy. It also offers an initial interest rate guarantee for 12 months from the date that the premium is received. In addition, this rate is guaranteed to be no less than 3%.
Symetra Successor Single Premium Life Insurance – With this form of coverage, the policyholder can designate a certain amount of money to his or her beneficiary exempt from federal income taxation. Plus, the financial worth of the insured’s estate will essentially go up the minute they purchase the insurance policy. With this plan, there is no need to worry about the policy expiring in the future. This is because it has a guaranteed death benefit that won’t terminate before the first policy anniversary following the insured’s 120th birthday. This policy also allows free annual withdrawals of no more than 10% of the accumulation value each policy year without a surrender charge.
Other Products Sold
In addition to just life insurance coverage, Symetra offers other products, too.
These include:
Annuities
Symetra offers a number of different annuity products. These can help individuals with saving for retirement, as well as ensuring they have an ongoing income that will last them throughout their retirement years.
Annuities offered by Symetra include the following:
Fixed Deferred Annuities
Fixed Indexed Annuities
Variable Deferred Annuities
Income Annuities
Employee Benefits
Symetra also offers employee benefits. The company’s knowledge of the marketplace, as well as its flexible policy designs, can help companies develop an employee benefit plan that best fits their business.
Stop Loss Insurance
Symetra is a pioneer in the stop-loss insurance arena. The company introduced the product to the market back in 1976, and it has worked to build one of the very best and largest medical stop-loss entities in the United States.
Last Updated: May 25, 2023 BY Michelle Schroeder-Gardner – Leave a Comment
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you. Please read my disclosure for more info.
Shorter post today. Super busy with all the car stuff, work and school. But of course I don’t want to leave you hanging 🙂 and I also have a lot of stuff on my mind that I love getting your opinions on.
Yesterday, I made a post about maybe getting a part-time job. A lot of you said just relax, and a lot of you said I should try and find something and come up with extra money ideas.
There are a lot of things out there that I could do. I’m still not sure how much time I would want to dedicate to it though. Once I graduate and get promoted at my work, I’m sure there will be a lot more stress involved and I probably won’t want something that takes up too much time.
However, I have no kids or anything, so I know I will have time.
Here’s a list of things that I could do:
Create another blog. I could start being more professional with this and start learning what all the blog terms like SEO and everything really mean, and then apply it to my blog.
Tutor. I have a lot of people who are always asking me to tutor them, but I always say no. It wouldn’t be a bad idea though.
Work at the tanning salon with my friend. She doesn’t make the greatest money, but it’s not hard work.
Bartend. A lot of my friends are bartenders and make decent money. Plus they get free drinks from other bartender friends that we know and free drinks at their bar.
Volunteer. Yes I wouldn’t make any money, but I could finally start volunteering at the animal shelter.
Retail store. I could maybe ask for my job back at where I used to work, and I’m sure she would say yes. She still loves me.
Do medical research tests. I would never do this. I hate shots, needles, blood being drawn. But my friend does work at a medical research facility and she’s always telling me about the awesome pay they give. This is something I’d never do, but I thought I’d throw it out there for others.
Find a temp job. Some of you mentioned this, what type of skilled temp jobs are out there that you guys were mentioning?
Babysit/nanny. I did this when I was much younger, and haven’t watched a little kid in forever. But I do remember that the pay was good when I was in middle school. I got paid $10 an hour which was pretty nice.
What would or do you currently do for extra money?
Most reader questions I share at Get Rich Slowly are meant to solve a problem — somebody has a financial dilemma they’re hoping you folks can help them fix. But Rita sent a different kind of question. She doesn’t want to solve a problem — she wants to stir debate. Rita writes:
I ask myself “How much is enough?” several times daily. My husband and I make good money — over $100,000 in combined income — own a home in an expensive city, have two large dogs, and are able to buy most of what we want. I don’t have a problem with normal spending, but I often feel bad when I purchase something really nice (such as a nice purse, a collectible book, etc).
On one hand, I can afford these things.
But on the other hand, I still feel that it’s somehow wrong that I continue to buy this stuff while many people in the world cannot afford clean water and food.
Just yesterday, I read an article on an entertainment site about Steven Spielberg’s $200 million personal yacht. I think that this a a crazy, immoral waste of money. He could make a HUGE difference by using that $200 million for charity.
I guess my point is: Am I really any better? No, I’m not buying a yacht anytime soon, but I do buy luxury items. And someday I’d like the satisfaction of being able to buy my husband a Range Rover. (He loves those damn cars.) My husband doesn’t feel guilt for having these things, but (if I’m being completely honest with myself) I do. Oddly enough, I majored in finance in college and am currently studying for the CFA exam, so the topic of “efficiency and equity” is really on my mind.
Four years ago, prompted by this thoughtful essay in the New York Times, I asked: What should a billionaire give, and what should you?
In this essay, philosopher Peter Singer discussed the magnitude of charitable donations from the two richest men in the world: Warren Buffett contributed $37 billion to charitable foundations, and Bill and Melinda Gates gave $30 billion. Singer wrote:
Philanthropy on this scale raises many ethical questions: Why are the people who are giving doing so? Does it do any good? Should we praise them for giving so much or criticize them for not giving still more? Is it troubling that such momentous decisions are made by a few extremely wealthy individuals? And how do our judgments about them reflect on our own way of living?
Singer’s article discusses the ethics of giving, and tries to establish some guidelines. (It’s a fascinating read but it’s long, so budget half an hour or so.)
After years of dithering, I’m finally moving forward with philanthropy in my own life. I’ve been researching (and finding!) causes to support. I’ve been exploring the possibility of volunteer tourism. And one of my goals for Awesome People is to donate all profits to charity. (I’ll share more about my forays into philanthropy in coming months.)
But Rita’s question is about more than just giving. It’s also about consumption. When we buy things, there are ramifications across a vast economic web. This is why some people are willing to pay a premium to buy local or to buy organic. It’s also why some people insist on buying American and others boycott specific items. (Some people refuse to buy diamonds; my high-school social studies teacher refused to buy bananas.)
On a basic level, every time we choose to buy a comfort or a luxury, we’re also making the choice not to use the money to help somebody else — whether in our own community or in the world at large. To what degree is this acceptable? To what degree is this reprehensible?
xkcd tackles the morality of spending…
This goes beyond just the personal level, of course.
Today as I drove into downtown Portland, I passed the $37,000,000 Mercy Corps building. I winced when I saw it. Mercy Corps does great work, but how much more great work could it have done with the money it spent for its new headquarters?
Or what about the humble country church my family attended when I was in high school? About a decade ago, the congregation spent tens of thousands of dollars to pave the parking lot and to build a new kitchen, gymnasium, and office. Is this what Jesus would have done? Or would he have used the money to help the poor?
I used to think there were clear answers to questions like these. Now I’m not so sure. What is right and what is wrong?
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What are the moral implications of spending, especially on Wants? (I doubt anyone would argue that we shouldn’t spend on our own Needs.) If I spend $1500 for a pair of season tickets to the Portland Timbers, is this immoral? What if I also contribute $15 to a charity to make amends? $150? $1500? And at what point am I just “buying” a mental pardon?
Some of you will argue loud and long that there aren’t any moral implications to spending. Others will argue just as loudly (and just as long) that every economic act carries a moral and ethical component, that our financial decisions have meaning. I can see both sides.
What do you think? What are the moral implications of spending? When is it okay to buy a $200 million yacht? Is such a decision ever justifiable? Always justifiable? If Steven Spielberg also donates $200 million to charity, does that ameliorate this obscene expense? And what about on a more mundane scale? Are there any absolutes? How do you decide?
Note: Although this question is likely to stir more passionate debate than usual, let’s abide by the standard rules. You’re free to disagree with each other (and with me), but please do so respectfully. Keep things civil. As long as everyone’s polite, I think this could be a fine discussion.
In the days before Los Angeles’ “mansion tax” took effect, the luxury market moved at hyperspeed.
Prices were slashed, escrows were rushed and million-dollar deals were closed as panicked sellers offered exotic cars and lucrative bonuses to anyone willing to buy their properties by the end of March. It was a manic, desperate attempt at avoiding Measure ULA, a new transfer tax that levies a 4% charge on all residential and commercial real estate sales in the cityabove $5 million and a 5.5% charge on sales above $10 million.
On April 1, everything froze.
Sellers, now faced with paying the tax if they sold, yanked their properties off the market. Discounted prices, which were valid only if the deal was done by March, shot back up. The luxury goodies were off the table. Bye bye, Bentley.
A market slowdown was expected, but the night-and-day difference between March and April sales was unprecedented.
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In March, when the luxury market reached the peak of its frenzy, there were 126 home and condo sales above $5 million in the city of L.A., according to the Multiple Listing Service.
In April, once Measure ULA took effect, there were two.
One sold in Brentwood for $5.7 million, and the other traded hands in Venice for $7.5 million. Together, they raised $528,000 for the city to use for affordable housing and homelessness prevention programs. So far, that’s it.
The slowdown makes sense. Sellers were economically incentivized to close deals before they would have to pay the tax, so most of the sales that were going to close already closed. L.A.’s luxury market won’t remain frozen forever, and deals will eventually pick back up, especially once the courts rule on two lawsuits arguing that the tax is unconstitutional. Many sellers are holding off listing while they wait for a clear ruling one way or the other.
But for a city grappling with a housing crisis, funding is needed as quickly as possible, and early signs indicate that the once-lofty projections for how much Measure ULA would raise might be much, much lower — especially for the first few months.
When Measure ULA was on the ballot in November, proponents estimated it would generate roughly $900 million a year, based on real estate sales data from 2021 to 2022.
In March, a report from the City Administrative Office lowered that number significantly, projecting $672 million in revenue from July 2023 to June 2024. The projection was a response to a real estate market that slowed dramatically because of rising interest rates.
Then in April, Mayor Karen Bass unveiled her first budget proposal, a $13.1-billion plan that included $1.3 billion to address homelessness. However, the budget projected only $150 million in revenue from Measure ULA.
The city is walking a tightrope. It needs to spend as much as possible to address housing and homelessness, but if the courts decide the measure is unconstitutional, the city will have to pay back all the money it generated from the tax. An L.A. County judge recently consolidated the two lawsuits challenging the measure into a single case, but the timeline for a ruling is unclear.
In this legal limbo, the city had to choose a budget number big enough to make an impact but small enough to pay back if necessary. The planners landed on $150 million because they felt confident that the city could make that back through federal reimbursements from organizations.
“The $150-million number takes into account the risk of losing litigation, but it’s also reflective of the urgency of the housing and homelessness situation,” said Greg Good, a senior advisor on policy and external affairs for the Los Angeles Housing Department. “This is an amount we feel comfortable that we could refund, if necessary.”
The ULA money can be spent only as it comes in, meaning that the city won’t be able to use the $150 million until the tax generates $150 million, Good said.
If luxury sales stay at the pace they are right now, that may take awhile.
“We anticipated the market slowing down. It’s logical economic behavior,” Good said. “But it’s still real estate in L.A. Eventually, transactions will get back to normal.”
Sellers are sitting on the sidelines in hopes that the tax will be overturned. The Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Assn., one of the groups filing a lawsuit against the tax, published a page on its website with instructions on how to file for a refund if the suit is successful.
“Sellers are taking their properties off the market, and there are some developers who won’t buy anything in the city,” said Compass agent Sally Forster Jones. “There’s hope that it gets overturned.”
Jones handled one of the final sales before Measure ULA took effect, helping a client sell a 1930s mansion in Brentwood for $16.2 million. Because it sold before the deadline, the seller saved $891,000.
The commercial market has cooled as well, said Oron Maher of Maher Commercial Realty. He said that most sellers listing properties post-ULA will be the ones that have no choice.
“These are mom-and-pop owners of real estate. People going through death, divorce, partnership dissolutions or retirement who are forced to sell as soon as possible,” Maher said. “If you don’t need to sell in ULA, you won’t. This will be a tax on people already experiencing difficult situations.”
In the last days of March, Maher closed the sale of a 16,000-square-foot apartment building on behalf of an elderly client who chose taking a lesser price over paying the tax. At $11 million, the sale price was $1.5 million less than the asking price, but it avoided a tax bill of $605,000.
Maher said that over the last month negotiations have become a game of hot potato, with sellers and buyers both asking the other to cover the tax.
“Buyers are saying it’s a seller’s tax, but sellers are saying they can’t sell unless the buyer can raise the price,” he said. “It’s all leading to less transactions.”
Even if the measure is upheld in court, there’s a chance sellers will find ways to skirt the tax. Shortly after the measure passed, The Times reported that wealthy sellers were already eyeing ways to avoid paying, such as breaking properties into pieces and selling them separately.
Legal resource outlet JD Supra recently published an article headlined “Nine Ideas to Avoid the Effect of Measure ULA.” Its suggestions include selling stakes in the entity that owns a property rather than the property itself, selling a house and the land it occupies separately, or taking the broker’s fee out of the sale price to get it under the tax thresholds.
City officials, meanwhile, are beefing up staff to help manage and administer the tax. The Los Angeles Housing Department is requesting six new hires to help launch ULA spending effectively, and the City Council confirmed 15 people to sit on the Citizens Oversight Committee, a volunteer group that will supervise spending and make program recommendations.
Among those named to the committee were Steve Diaz, deputy director of the L.A. Community Action Network; Deepika Sharma, a professor at USC‘s Gould School of Law; and Alan Greenlee, executive director of the Southern California Assn. of Nonprofit Housing, who worked on the United to House L.A. coalition that drafted the measure.
The group will convene for the first time in early May.
“I’m excited about the prospect of ULA,” Greenlee said. “It creates considerable and ongoing resources that the city can use not only to protect low-income residents so they can stay in their homes, but also creates certainty that there will be resources available for developers to build affordable housing.”
Good said both groups will play a crucial role — should the measure survive litigation.
“We’re in an extraordinary dual crisis with housing security and homelessness, and this measure was passed by nearly 60% of voters,” Good said. “This is a genuine opportunity to move the needle, and we’re hopeful and committed to seeing it through.”
Inside: Do you have any ideas for things to do that are both fun and relaxing? This what do you do for fun guide has suggestions for answers. When asked by the interviewer, you will be prepared.
We all know the feeling. You’re at a networking event, or perhaps on a first date, and someone asks you the inevitable question:
What do you do for fun?
Your mind goes blank. You can’t think of anything interesting to say, so you mumble something about watching TV and call it a night.
Don’t worry, we’ve all been there.
However, when you are interviewing for a new job, you need to nail the sometimes awkward question.
So, the next time this happens, try one of these 13 conversation-starting responses:
How do you answer what I do for fun?
Answering the question “What do you do for fun?” during an interview is important because it provides insight into your personality and whether you would fit in with the company culture.
To answer the question effectively, it’s important, to be honest and showcase your unique interests and passions.
One way to answer is by discussing a hobby that relates to the job or demonstrates valuable skills.
Another option is to talk about a hobby that showcases your personality or values.
You could discuss a recent experience or accomplishment that you’re proud of, showing your drive and dedication.
In any case, be sure to keep your answer professional and engaging, while highlighting what makes you stand out as a candidate.
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How to Answer “What do you do for Fun” in an Interview
“What do you do for fun?” is a question that can throw many job seekers into a loop during an interview.
It’s not always easy to answer, especially if your hobbies and interests aren’t the most “conventional” or if you don’t have any hobbies at all.
Step 1: Be Honest
It is crucial to be honest when answering the question “What do you do for fun?” in an interview because it shows that you are an honorable candidate.
Being truthful demonstrates integrity, and it is a quality that people value.
Moreover, honesty prevents you from being caught in a lie, which can harm your credibility and chances of getting the job.
It is also vital to keep your answer simple and relevant to the job you are interviewing for. For instance, if you are applying for a position at a sports company, mentioning your interest in sports can make you stand out. However, it is essential to be genuine and not makeup stories to impress the interviewer.
Step 2: Show your passion
When answering the question “What do you do for fun?” in an interview, it’s important to showcase your passion and enthusiasm for the activity.
For example, if you enjoy hiking, you could explain how the beauty of nature and the physical challenge of the activity inspire you.
Additionally, you can mention how this passion translates to your work ethic, such as by demonstrating your dedication and perseverance in achieving your goals.
By highlighting your genuine interests and tying them to your professional skills, you can show the hiring manager that you are a well-rounded and committed individual.
Step 3: Pick one or two things
When answering this question, start by considering your hobbies and interests, then narrow it down to one or two that are relevant to the job you’re applying for.
Explain why you enjoy these activities and how they’ve helped you develop skills that could be beneficial in the workplace.
Keep your answer concise and enthusiastic, with a friendly tone.
Step 4: Emphasize how this will help you in your job
When it comes to talking about hobbies during a job interview, it’s important to make a connection between your interests and the job you’re applying for. This can demonstrate how your hobbies can be an asset to the company and how they can help you succeed in the role.
For example, if you’re applying for a marketing job and you enjoy painting, you could talk about how your creative skills from painting can be applied to your work. Similarly, if you’re part of a sports team, you could discuss how the teamwork and collaboration skills you’ve developed can translate into being a better team player in the workplace.
It’s also worth mentioning how your hobbies help you decompress and recharge after work. For instance, if you’re applying for a high-stress job, you could talk about how reading helps you unwind and come back to work feeling refreshed.
When mentioning your hobbies, it’s important to be truthful and genuine. Don’t make up interests that you don’t actually have just to impress the interviewer. This can backfire and cost you the job offer.
Step 5: Use necessary details only
For those who love to talk, this tip is for you! Make sure to detail only what the other person may be interested or that will give you a heads up.
Avoid oversharing or rambling by speaking about all of your hobbies.
Avoid cliche responses and discuss specifics about what you like to do for fun with friends or family. Remember to keep your answer positive and to the point, supported with a few brief details.
Step 6: Find common ground
During a job interview, it’s important to find common ground when answering the question “What do you do for fun?” This will help you stand out in the interviewer’s memory and establish a connection with them.
Look for shared interests and use them to your advantage.
If you notice the interviewer wearing a brand of clothing you like or supporting a sports team you also support, mention it and use it as a launching point for your answer.
Be honest and specific about your interests, and showcase any skills or values that you have gained through them.
The 13 best ways to answer “What do you do for fun?”
We all know the feeling.
You’re sitting in an interview, and the interviewer asks you a question that feels like it’s designed to trip you up. For some people, this question is “What do you do for fun?”
Answering this question well can be the difference between nailing the interview and not getting the job.
Here are some ideas to help you answer this possibly awkward question.
1. Start with Hobbies & Interests
When discussing your hobbies, aim to share areas that you are truly interested in and passionate about. This can lead to follow-up interview questions and potentially create a great relationship with the interviewer.
When asked about your hobbies in an interview, it is important to be truthful and genuine about your interests and hobbies outside of work.
It may be helpful to prepare in advance by brainstorming two to three hobbies that you enjoy and can speak passionately about.
If you happen to spot something in the interviewer’s appearance that indicates a shared hobby, such as a Garmin sports watch indicating a love for running or cycling, it can be beneficial to mention your own interest in that activity.
However, even if you do not spot anything obvious, sharing multiple hobbies can improve your chances of connecting with hiring managers.
2. Relate Your Personal Activities to the Job
When it comes to discussing your hobbies and interests during a job interview, it’s important to establish a connection between what you like to do for fun and the job you’re applying for.
This can be done by identifying common skills or attributes that apply to both your hobby and the job. For instance, if you’re an artist applying for a marketing job, you can talk about how your creative skills from painting can help you perform well at work. Similarly, if you’re part of a sports team, you can discuss how the collaboration and teamwork involved in the sport can directly translate into helping you become a better team player at work.
In addition to highlighting the skills and attributes that apply to both your hobby and the job, you can also discuss how your hobby helps you decompress and maintain a work-life balance. If you’re applying for a high-stress job, for instance, you can talk about how a simple hobby like reading helps you unwind and recharge, allowing you to come back to work feeling refreshed.
3. Be a Storyteller – Not the Interviewer
When asked this question, the interviewer wants to get to know your personality and how you communicate with others.
This is an interpersonal skill that will you help you to land the job.
You want to tell an intriguing story, but not go into the details that the other person finds boring. You want to be engaging – that shows your potential employer or date how you will interact with others.
Also, don’t be afraid to ask open-ended questions yourself.
4. Make Sure to Qualify what makes you special
When answering the question “What makes you unique?” during a job interview, it is important to provide a well-rounded view of yourself.
The interviewer wants to know what unique skills you could bring to the team. It is essential to ensure that your answer is positive and to the point.
You should not try to mention all of your interests or list them off.
By highlighting unique activities or lesser-known facts about your interests, you can make yourself stand out in the interviewer’s eyes, and the hobby may become your identifier when the hiring manager is making their decision.
Sample Example Answers to “What do you do for fun”
Here are some examples you can give to the hiring manager or your date:
1. Cook delicious meals
2. Bake goodies for others
3. Spend Time With Friends and Family
4. Get Out in Nature and go hiking, cycling, rock climbing, paddleboarding or skiing.
5. Singing or acting
6. Read for Pleasure
7. Watch Movies or TV Shows
8. Listen to podcasts or watch documentaries
9. Make Art
10. Meditate
11. Take Photos
12. Play Board Games
13. Plant a Garden
14. Listen to Music
15. Volunteer
16. Fishing
What to Avoid in Your Answer
When an interviewer asks you, “What do you do for fun?” this is not an invitation to launch into a list of your hobbies.
It’s actually a behavioral interview question, which is meant to reveal something about your character.
So, make sure you don’t do these things.
1. Avoid Clichés Like “I Like to Keep Busy”
It’s important to avoid clichés like “I like to keep busy” when answering the question “What do you do for fun?” in an interview or social setting because they provide no real information about who you are.
This answer makes it seem like the job or starting a new relationship is not important.
Avoid common clichés like “hanging out with friends” or “spending time with family” as they are too broad and uninteresting.
Choose to share things that you actually do for fun, make a connection where you can, and keep it simple and honest.
2. Don’t Mention Things You Don’t Actually Enjoy Doing
Avoid mentioning activities that you do not actually enjoy doing, as this can come across as insincere and potentially cost you the job.
Additionally, do not avoid the question or give an incomplete answer. Instead, be honest and share 1 or 2 things that you actually do for fun.
If an activity you enjoy relates to the company, mentioning it can make a positive impression.
This is especially true when applying for low stress jobs without a degree.
3. Don’t Be Self-Deprecating
Self-deprecation may make the person answering seem insecure or lacking in confidence. Instead, focusing on positive and confident answers can make a better impression on the interviewer.
It’s important to avoid self-deprecating answers when asked about what you do for fun because they can come across as negative and uninteresting. For example, talking about hobbies or interests that you are passionate about and that showcase your strengths can be a great way to show your personality and skills.
For instance, you might say that you enjoy hiking and exploring new trails in your free time, which demonstrates a sense of adventure and a willingness to take on challenges.
4. Don’t Try to Impress with Your Hobbies
Making up stories or pretending to be interested in something that you’re not can backfire and harm your credibility, self-esteem, and sense of integrity.
Instead, focus on sharing what you actually enjoy doing and tie your hobbies to skills that would fit the job. Even if your hobbies seem mundane to you, they can be extremely interesting to others.
Plus, being authentic and real can help you connect with the other person and avoid any damage control later on.
5. Don’t Include Unrelated Skills
When it comes to talking about hobbies or skills during a job interview, it’s best to tie them to the job you’re applying for. While it’s acceptable to mention hobbies that are not directly related to the job, it’s best to avoid discussing skills that are completely unrelated.
Talking about unrelated skills may give the impression that you’re not truly interested in the job or that you lack the necessary skills for the position.
For example, if you’re applying for a software engineering position, it’s probably not a good idea to talk about your love of painting. While painting may be a great hobby, it doesn’t have much relevance to the job you’re applying for. Instead, you could talk about your interest in coding and how you enjoy working on personal coding projects in your spare time.
6. Don’t Write About Hobbies that Are Too Exotic
Activities that are considered extreme or dangerous can make you appear as a risk to the company, and hobbies that could bring your morals into question, such as partying or drinking or many other things I’m not going to mention in this blog can paint you in a negative light.
It’s important to remember that as an employee, you will be a representative of the company, and any negative view of you could reflect poorly on the company.
Instead, focus on the more interesting and relevant hobbies that showcase your skills and personality.
7. Don’t Use Excuses for Not Having a Hobby
It’s essential to avoid making excuses for not having a hobby when answering the question “What do you do for fun?” during an interview because it can come across as uninteresting or lacking in personality.
However, It’s better, to be honest and admit that you don’t have any particular hobbies than to make up stories that might not be true.
Think of things you would do if you had more time in your day.
Those are your hobbies regardless of how much time you have dedicated in the past days.
Example Answers
Here are some example answers to get you started.
Example 1
One hobby I enjoy doing in my free time is hiking as it is a great way for me to unwind and reconnect with the outdoors. I find it to be a great way to exercise and explore nature.
I love the feeling of being surrounded by trees and fresh air, and the physical challenge of climbing hills and mountains. Once a month, I try to go hiking.
Example 2
One fun activity that I enjoy doing with a group of friends is playing board games. The sound of laughter and friendly banter fills the room as we gather around the table, each armed with our own game piece.
The competitive spirit is alive and well as we try to outwit each other and come out on top. But it’s not just about winning – it’s about spending time together, bonding over shared experiences, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Whether it’s a classic game like Monopoly or a newer favorite like Settlers of Catan, board games provide the perfect opportunity for socializing and having fun with friends.
Example 3
One of my favorite activities to do with friends and family is going on picnics.
I love the feeling of laying out a blanket on a grassy field, surrounded by nature and good company. The sound of laughter and conversations mixed with the rustling of leaves and birds chirping creates a peaceful atmosphere.
Sharing delicious snacks and refreshing drinks while enjoying the scenery and each other’s company brings me immense joy.
FAQ
Adding hobbies to a resume can be beneficial for several reasons. It can give the employer a glimpse into your personality and interests, and can also highlight skills that may be relevant to the job.
When choosing which hobbies to include, it’s important to consider the job you’re applying for and tailor your hobbies accordingly.
For example, if you’re applying for a job in the arts, including hobbies such as painting or sculpture could demonstrate your creative abilities.
Similarly, if you’re applying for a job in a physically demanding field, including hobbies such as hiking or weightlifting could highlight your physical fitness.
Other hobbies that could be relevant to many jobs include volunteering, learning a new language, or participating in team sports.
Overall, the key is to choose hobbies that showcase your skills and interests, while also being relevant to the job you’re applying for.
This is another common question during an interview as it is a sneaky way to see where the person wants to be or plans to be around for a long period of time.
Here is a sample answer:
In five years, I see myself as a successful professional who is making meaningful contributions to my field. I am someone who is respected by my colleagues and clients alike for my expertise and professionalism.
To achieve these goals, I plan to continue learning and growing in my career, taking on new challenges, and seeking out opportunities to develop my skills. I will also prioritize self-care and make time for the people and activities that bring me joy and fulfillment.
Now, What do you Like to do for Fun?
This guide is to help you during an interview, but something you use in other relationships as well.
Honesty is always the best policy.
With these fun ideas, you will be able to answer the interviewer’s questions with ease.
So, the next time someone asks you what you do for fun, you will be able to answer with confidence.
Find ideas for what should I do today.
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
If you have a disability that affects your daily life, you may qualify for government or private funding programs. Whether you want to make your home more accessible, find decently priced health insurance, or start a business, there are financial resources designed for you.
Note: though people with disabilities earn across the income spectrum, some of the resources on this list are reserved for people with low incomes (or people whose disabilities make it tough to find employment). If you earn above a certain threshold, some suggestions here won’t apply to you. Others are available to all people with disabilities, regardless of income.
Unless noted otherwise, the resources in this article are specific to people who live in the United States.
What’s Ahead:
Housing
Public housing programs
Depending on availability where you live, you can get on the list for low-cost public rental housing through the federal office of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). You apply at the local level through your state agency.
Note that there are income limits based on the median income in your area, and typically a long waiting list.
Rental assistance for private housing
It’s also possible — and maybe less of a wait — to qualify for rental assistance on private housing of your choice. This map directs you to available housing and other financial help in your city and state.
Vouchers for renting or buying
HUD’s housing choice voucher program, otherwise known as Section 8, includes people with disabilities in its voucher-eligible pool. Vouchers give you financial help to pay all or part of the rent.
You can pick the home or apartment where you want to live, unlike with public housing assistance. But you’re responsible for finding the place and filling out the application.
The income requirements are similar to those for public housing. If you earn less than 50% of the median income for your area or county, you’re eligible.
Non-elderly disabled (NED) voucher program
This voucher program is designed for people with disabilities who wouldn’t otherwise qualify for housing assistance.
There are a few different kinds of NED vouchers. Some help you pay for rentals on the private market. Others set aside units in certain Section 8 housing developments for applicants with disabilities.
Buying a home
For people ready to buy, housing choice vouchers can help pay the mortgage and other miscellaneous homeownership costs. Note that this voucher program is for first-time homeowners, and not every public housing agency offers it.
Find your public housing agency here to learn their voucher specifics.
Read more: Home affordability calculator
Home repair
Government loans for rural homeowners
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has grants and loans for rural homeowners who want to retrofit or modify a home to make it more accessible. Use their map to check if your neighborhood qualifies as “rural.”
Grants are reserved for elderly homeowners, but loans up to $40,000 are open to all qualified applicants (at 1% interest, which you really can’t beat).
Home repair for veterans
If your disability is connected to your time in the military, you may qualify for a government grant to buy or repair your home.
These grants are substantial — over $100,000 for fiscal year 2022.
Private home repair aid
Rebuilding Together is a volunteer organization that completes home upgrades and repairs at no cost to homeowners with disabilities.
The National Directory of Home Modification and Repair Resources has links to several funding opportunities, including local loans and grants.
To search state-by-state for home repair grant assistance, try the Rehabilitation Engineering Society of North America’s Catalyst Project directory.
Education
Grants, scholarships, and loans
There are diverse financial resources for students with disabilities at the undergraduate, graduate, and professional levels. Many are geared towards certain disabilities, but some are more general.
Read more: Money Under 30’s guide to filling out the FAFSA
Federal student loan discharge
Student loan borrowers with total and permanent disabilities can apply to have their federal loans partially or fully discharged. You’ll need some documentation to confirm your disability. (Note that this program only applies to certain federal loans).
Savings
ABLE accounts
Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) accounts are tax-advantaged savings accounts (meaning you don’t pay taxes on income you earn from them).
Designed to meet disability-related expenses, ABLE accounts are less expensive alternatives to most trust funds. You can contribute up to $16,000 a year.
If your disability onset occurred before you turned 26, you may be eligible to open an ABLE account. And if you’re taking advantage of income-contingent programs like housing vouchers or food stamps, ABLE account savings won’t affect your eligibility.
Health insurance
Medicaid
You may already know about Medicaid, but in case you don’t, this low-cost (sometimes free) government-funded healthcare coverage is available to people with disabilities and low incomes. Each state has slightly different Medicaid requirements.
Medicare
Medicare, while also free or low-cost, isn’t attached to income. Younger people with disabilities qualify for Medicare, and they can work while receiving Medicare.
If you’re eligible, you can have both Medicare and Medicaid (depending on your health care needs, the extra coverage may be worthwhile).
Read more: What to do when you get medical bills you can’t afford
Paying for prescriptions
Once you qualify for Medicare, you’re automatically eligible for a range of pharmaceutical savings programs, including Medicare Extra Help and state-based assistance for certain prescriptions.
Other financial resources for medication access include:
Living expenses
Social Security Disability Insurance
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) has pretty strict requirements. You may qualify if your disability makes you unable to work, if it’s designated as a total (not partial or temporary) disability, and if you’ve previously worked long enough to pay Social Security taxes.
Its benefits include monthly financial assistance, at a higher amount than its sister program Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI monthly benefits are easier to qualify for than SSDI. You don’t need to have paid into Social Security, but your income can’t be above a certain amount.
You can have a part-time or full-time job and stay on SSI through their “work incentives” program. The goal is generally to transition participants off SSI once they’ve saved enough cash, but each case is different.
Read more: Why disability insurance is the most important financial product you didn’t realize you needed
Employment
If you’re entrepreneurially-minded, the Small Business Administration has a list of resources — including grants, loans, and professional networks — designed for business owners with disabilities.
People with blindness or significant disabilities can browse the job boards and make connections at AbilityOne.
For people on SSI or SSDI benefits, the Ticket to Work program gives referrals, training, and other employment assistance.
Summary
If you need some help paying bills, relocating, or meeting a savings goal, there’s likely to be a disability-related program that matches your needs.
And if you’re financially independent, it’s still worthwhile to check out your aid options — public and private resources can keep more money in your pocket for the future.