Key dates and how to prepare ahead of the 2023 tax season

The beginning of tax season is right around the corner, so there is no better time to prepare and familiarize yourself with the important deadlines. The IRS will begin taking and processing tax returns on January 23. From then, you will have until April 18 to file your taxes unless you file for an extension, […]

Here’s what happens to donated items at Goodwill

Getting your clothes to Goodwill is a big step, and Director of Communications Debra Donatto says depending on the item, it could be the first of many. Some of them will stay in that store, but all clothes, shoes, and linens head to a processing unit. That’s where employees determine what goes into a store […]

Eggs top other SWFL groceries for price increases during inflation

Inflation shows signs of slowing, but the price of one grocery staple continues its costly run. Why has the cost of eggs continued to trend so high at Southwest Florida grocery stores? It doesn’t matter if the chicken or the egg came first—you’re paying more for both of them. In order to keep eggs in […]

Making Ends Meet: Where to find scholarship opportunities for college

In just a couple of months, prospective college students will find out what schools they got into. And paying for college doesn’t have to mean taking on student debt. Scholarships with simple applications are everywhere. $49 billion is awarded in scholarships every year, according to the National Scholarship Association. Yet, about $100 million in scholarships […]

Making Ends Meet: Tips on how to ask for a raise

Soaring inflation costs have left many unsatisfied with their salaries. While requesting more money from your employer can be uncomfortable, it doesn’t have to be. Here is what you should and shouldn’t do when asking for a raise. About 70% of employees who ask for a raise receive one. And 39% get the amount they […]

Tips on how to work on your finances in the new year

One in three Americans’ new year’s resolutions are money, according to personal finance website WalletHub. But almost all of them won’t stick to those resolutions by the end of the month. It’s time to figure out ways to not drop the ball on your financial goals this year. Start by looking at what happened in […]

Making Ends Meet: Saving money while repairing after Hurricane Ian

Building back after Hurricane Ian is costly, but certain upgrades can help you save money. How can Floridians keep some money in their pockets while putting their homes back together? Consider energy-efficient home improvements when rebuilding; you can save thousands via federal income tax credits because of the Inflation Reduction Act. You will get a […]

Season of Savings: Shop for less at Habitat for Humanity ReStores

Recovering from Hurricane Ian and record-high inflation have combined to create tight budgets for Southwest Florida families, but shopping at Habitat for Humanity’s ReStores can help stretch those budgets and give back to the community at large. Pre-loved holiday decor, used exercise equipment and previously owned clean furniture at a significant discount can all be […]

How you can save while giving gifts this season

The holiday countdown begins and it will cost you about 10% more to buy gifts for your loved ones this year. Here are a few tips on saving when shopping for gifts this season. It’s easy to get lost in the aisles, carried away by the bright lights and sales signs. But before you walk […]

Tips for saving money while shopping for holiday gifts

Inflation might be the real scrooge this holiday season, and higher prices have shoppers stressed about buying gifts. There are some ways you can save money this season. 40% of holiday shoppers blame inflation for changing the way they shop, according to a Bankrate.com report. Half of those surveyed say they started shopping before Halloween, […]