Search found 1101 matches
- Thu Mar 03, 2016 12:54 pm
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: Has your number changed?
- Replies: 52
- Views: 9687
Re: Has your number changed?
I say I am retired ,and as time has gone by , I appear to "Need"less. I have to admit I am rather surprised as to how little it cost for us to live and enjoy life'Enjoy being the key word. "The number" As Of Today, is far less than the number I would have considered necessary years ago when working and planning for retirement. :happy From my limited perspective this is what I'm just starting to realize, granted I have few years left. As the kids are getting old, college bound, driving etc. the picture is still fuzzy but it starting to come into focus. In the back of my mind I have to wonder how many are really over saving. Its one thing to do what you like for an income, its another to trade working in some job you can'...
- Thu Mar 03, 2016 12:44 pm
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: Has your number changed?
- Replies: 52
- Views: 9687
Re: Has your number changed?
I always work in todays dollars than make some wild a$ guess of inflation for the next 10-30 years. Come to think about it, the end number goal is about the only number I inflate out. In other words and more on topic, as the years tick by the number changes, the number you had 10-20 years ago was based on pile of wild guesses that did not come true, therefor the earlier number/goal hold less meaning. I'm sure we have some math wizards around here that can tell how much more accurate your number becomes as you age, or less accurate if that can be the case!livesoft wrote:My number was lower ages ago. I have adjusted upwards with inflation and stock market returns.
- Thu Mar 03, 2016 12:28 pm
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: Social Security Delay - Need to Work?
- Replies: 20
- Views: 2388
Re: Social Security Delay - Need to Work?
This is the reason I use the SS calculator and enter a goose egg for future earnings, I want to know what I can expect if I quit today and collect 15 years from now.Spirit Rider wrote: What may be confusing is that the social security statement does the following; "we assumed you'll continue to work and make about the same". They do not consider the possibility that you will stop working and delay enrolling for benefits.
- Thu Mar 03, 2016 12:16 pm
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: Has your number changed?
- Replies: 52
- Views: 9687
Has your number changed?
As a follow up to the "Can you retire on $1,000,000" thread, a great discussion btw, it got me to thinking about another topic. https://www.bogleheads.org/forum/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=185772&start=50 It would appear in the other thread we have a wide range of ages, backgrounds etc. That discussion got me to thinking how ones goals change over time, life just happens and you roll with the punches. This question is more for the well seasoned crowd, someone who has lived it. At some point in your younger years you may have set a goal of how much you need/want before you pull the plug. As the years tick by did you find your number being revised up, down or was your estimate right on the money so to speak? I would say I'm not in t...
- Wed Mar 02, 2016 10:12 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Gardening 2016
- Replies: 77
- Views: 13197
Re: Gardening 2016
Last fall I tilled up our 20' x 40' garden and got a pile of milkweed seeds that were growing around my shop (did not what them there) and converted the garden to a milkweed wonderland for the butterflies. From my understanding milkweed is in short supply.
We have a number of smaller steel tubs, like wash tubs that we use for flowers on the deck. Thinking of growing some tomatoes and not sure what else in the tubs. Last year at the local green house they planted about 6 stocks of sweet corn in a pot, I may give that a whirl, would be a good conversation piece while on the deck!
We have a number of smaller steel tubs, like wash tubs that we use for flowers on the deck. Thinking of growing some tomatoes and not sure what else in the tubs. Last year at the local green house they planted about 6 stocks of sweet corn in a pot, I may give that a whirl, would be a good conversation piece while on the deck!
- Tue Mar 01, 2016 12:02 pm
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: Converting landline phone to Google Voice
- Replies: 16
- Views: 3387
Re: Converting landline phone to Google Voice
Been thinking about doing the same, we already have been using a Google Number with Google Hangouts.
I think the way we will handle it is port the old landline number to Google Voice and then just forward the calls to our cells phone #'s. We get very few calls on the land line anymore.
I think the way we will handle it is port the old landline number to Google Voice and then just forward the calls to our cells phone #'s. We get very few calls on the land line anymore.
- Mon Feb 29, 2016 8:23 pm
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: 501c3 letter- need to obtain one on behalf of an organization.
- Replies: 23
- Views: 2429
Re: 501c3 letter- need to obtain one on behalf of an organization.
I don't have much time to post back now so I'll write more later. Let's just say that when I agreed to accept this board position last summer, there were certain representations made to me regarding what my duties would be, what the time commitment would be, what other people would be doing, and the general state of the paperwork organization. When I actually got into digging into what had been done and what needed to be done, I found out that wasn't the case. So we are having to reinvent the wheel and do a lot from scratch. Welcome to the world of Booster Clubs and the like, its generally a thankless job. You just have to say to yourself its for the kids! I ran into the same issues you are speaking of. I think most of the problems are do ...
- Fri Feb 26, 2016 9:17 am
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: Going to 30/70 (Target Retirement Income Fund) at age 33?
- Replies: 45
- Views: 7959
Re: Going to 30/70 (Target Retirement Income Fund) at age 33?
By nature I've always been quite risk adverse.... It would be a misconception to think that bonds are risk free, they just have different types of risk. Longer term bonds will get clobbered if interest rates rise a lot and they may not even keep up with inflation expecially in a taxable account. I forget where I heard it but there is a quote that goes something like this, "In investing you cannot avoid risk, you can only pick out the types of risks you want to take." If this money is all really for retirment and will not be needed for decades then having a well diversified portfolio is probably safer over the LONG run than betting on bonds. One thing that a risk adverse person can do out side of their asset allocation is to use m...
- Tue Feb 23, 2016 7:52 am
- Forum: Personal Investments
- Topic: To ROTH or not to ROTH
- Replies: 8
- Views: 1534
Re: To ROTH or not to ROTH
I would not convert it all, maybe none of it.
Having some taxed deferred dollars to fill up the 0% and 10% bracket is good thing for most of us.
I do however think having some "tax diversification" is sane. Sometimes I think people get a little blind sighted by the all mighty Roth. Take some time and play with Taxcaster and see how much one can draw out of a traditional IRA/401k etc, with paying $0 in taxes. One has to recognize that the tax system 20-40 years from now may not be what we have today as well!
I have about the same amount of time left as you do, I'm filling up his/hers Roths, everything else is deferred and a bit taxable.
Having some taxed deferred dollars to fill up the 0% and 10% bracket is good thing for most of us.
I do however think having some "tax diversification" is sane. Sometimes I think people get a little blind sighted by the all mighty Roth. Take some time and play with Taxcaster and see how much one can draw out of a traditional IRA/401k etc, with paying $0 in taxes. One has to recognize that the tax system 20-40 years from now may not be what we have today as well!
I have about the same amount of time left as you do, I'm filling up his/hers Roths, everything else is deferred and a bit taxable.
- Mon Feb 22, 2016 6:57 pm
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: Mr Money Mustache Article (New Yorker)
- Replies: 94
- Views: 24472
Re: Mr Money Mustache Article (New Yorker)
Thanks for the post and link. I think it's funny his name is Pete. Its nice to preach that you can live on $24,000/year. To give people the idea all you need is a nest egg large enough to produce $24,000/year while you have a safety net of $400,000/year in income does not meet the smell test, I'm glad the article pulled the curtain back a little. I do think his message is good on many levels however. My take, the blog wasn't generating $400k per year when he quit his job and then 5+ years later started writing about living off of $24k per year, so for me the smell test passes. I will meet you half way :wink: He did have "other" income coming in besides the dollars spewing off his/hers investments and the blog. I'm sure the blog s...
- Mon Feb 22, 2016 6:50 pm
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: Mr Money Mustache Article (New Yorker)
- Replies: 94
- Views: 24472
Re: Mr Money Mustache Article (New Yorker)
That is/was my biggest beef, again one has to remember it is the internet after all, a pile of half truths?HomerJ wrote:
I wonder if the people who follow him and retire at 30 with $600k will also do as well. They may actually have to live that $24k life for 50 years straight.
- Mon Feb 22, 2016 3:12 pm
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: Mr Money Mustache Article (New Yorker)
- Replies: 94
- Views: 24472
Re: Mr Money Mustache Article (New Yorker)
He does stand up for it however, I do agree it does get a little old!Nicolas wrote:His regular usage of crude language is distasteful to me. What is the purpose?
Adeney once did a review of credit cards and decided that Chase was the best. Whenever a reader clicked on Chase’s icon on the page and ordered a card, Adeney got a hundred dollars. Many started doing this, and apparently someone at Chase took note and decided to have a look at his blog. Adeney’s occasional profanities were a problem. Chase asked him to stop using foul language. Adeney told the company to bug off. This cost him thousands of dollars a month in the name of free speech.
- Mon Feb 22, 2016 3:06 pm
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: Mr Money Mustache Article (New Yorker)
- Replies: 94
- Views: 24472
Re: Mr Money Mustache Article (New Yorker)
Its nice to preach that you can live on $24,000/year. To give people the idea all you need is a nest egg large enough to produce $24,000/year while you have a safety net of $400,000/year in income does not meet the smell test, I'm glad the article pulled the curtain back a little. I do think his message is good on many levels however.
- Mon Feb 22, 2016 1:28 pm
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: Mr Money Mustache Article (New Yorker)
- Replies: 94
- Views: 24472
Mr Money Mustache Article (New Yorker)
A nice write up of the Mr. Money Mustache and his mission. http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2016/02/29/mr-money-mustache-the-frugal-guru His goals, he says, are: 1. “To make you rich so you can retire early”; 2. “To make you happy so you can properly enjoy your early retirement”; and 3. “To save the whole Human Race from destroying itself through overconsumption of its habitat.” The blog, which he started five years ago, is really an attack on consumerism and waste—a theology of conservation—disguised as a personal-finance advice column. I do like what he and his wife stand for, the one beef I have/had was they called themselves retired. My definition of retired is not having to work for income. Rather if they have to or not is a tad uncle...
- Mon Feb 22, 2016 12:10 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Unfinished basement ideas
- Replies: 41
- Views: 7361
Re: Unfinished basement ideas
Be a little careful, if you are planning on hiring a legit contractor they may want to pull a permit, that will defeat the tax man go around. You noted you are not planning on any electrical work, if you "finish" the space by code you are suppose to have so many outlets etc. Again if you don't have it inspected I guess you would not have to worry about it. I'm neither pro/con of pulling a permit, understand completely not wanting the tax man to come out but........If you go to sell at some point many people know days will look up what permits were pulled and if nothing shows up for the basement they will ding you for it. Around here the assessor comes by about 5 years and they will see what you done anyway and you get to pay. If y...
- Mon Feb 22, 2016 11:57 am
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: Running out of money in retirement
- Replies: 49
- Views: 12388
Re: Running out of money in retirement
I think the OP's story is more of the norm than not. I do know a few folks (family and friends) some of who have been lucky enough to escape the nursing home/assisted living expenses who have been living basically on SS alone for many years, ran out of cash mid to late 80's. They are happy and content, as long the library stays open in the eyesight keeps they appear to be enjoying life.
As a side note I often have wondered, if one is on Medicaid living in a nursing home how much increase the private pay people to pick up the difference. I'm not thinking the nursing home is picking up the difference, I could be wrong as I have no clue!
As a side note I often have wondered, if one is on Medicaid living in a nursing home how much increase the private pay people to pick up the difference. I'm not thinking the nursing home is picking up the difference, I could be wrong as I have no clue!
- Tue Feb 16, 2016 1:13 pm
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: How to save money and keep the house clean?
- Replies: 48
- Views: 8748
Re: How to save money and keep the house clean?
4 people - 2 small kids and 2 adults. I am 31, I am wondering how I am going to keep up when I am old/er or in a job that requires lot more hours a week. Any ideas? We don't have a 3000 sq ft home, about half the size.....but. If I was to guess the kids are getting older/more demanding and you are starting to feel a little stressed, I'm hear to tell you that is just normal. We are the same size family except kids are older, almost adult like. Its a family affair to keep the place clean, its not ones persons job. We all know how to clean the toilet, do the dishes, clean the floors etc. Will the kids do a good job, about half the time its ok, its a battle at times etc. The point is, its a family and we all work within the house/yard. I'm a n...
- Tue Feb 16, 2016 12:53 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: [What TV Show Have You Recently Watched?]
- Replies: 5973
- Views: 689577
Re: Netflix, Your Current Favorite Show
I'm glad I'm not the only one, I enjoy crime shows as much as the next person but man they are so many. To add to your list you have Criminal Minds and a new Criminal Minds something starting.pennstater2005 wrote: I'm not a fan of crime shows anymore. NCIS, Law and Order, and CSI really wore me out for years to come.
The criminal shows that are a cross with Si-Fy have been holding my interest lately, like Agents of Carter. Its does help the gal playing the lead role is drop dead gorgeous dressed up in all the 1940's outfits
- Mon Feb 15, 2016 9:36 am
- Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
- Topic: "When is a Dollar Worth More Than a Dollar?"
- Replies: 3
- Views: 1732
Re: "When is a Dollar Worth More Than a Dollar?"
No worries, you are in good companyspth wrote:I wish I would have procrastinated this January.
Think the same thing happened last year!
- Fri Feb 12, 2016 11:38 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Freeze Veggies for Stir-Fry?
- Replies: 8
- Views: 1931
Re: Freeze Veggies for Stir-Fry?
Perfect, thanks.magicrat wrote:No need to blanch. Just cut up and freeze. If you have the time, pre-freeze the pieces on a tray for 30 mins or so before putting in a bag / container. Will help keep them from freezing/sticking together.
I use that freeze method for everything from fruit to meatballs, works great.
- Fri Feb 12, 2016 10:25 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Freeze Veggies for Stir-Fry?
- Replies: 8
- Views: 1931
Freeze Veggies for Stir-Fry?
We like to make Stir Fry's, Chow Mein, etc.
Would like to give my hand at freezing some veggies to 1)help speed things along when I don't have time to chop them. 2) we like to buy peppers, onion, celery etc. from Costco and can't always get through them all. 3) part of my OCD, when I start chopping I what to chop everything and be done with it and enjoy the fruits of my labor later.
I would prefer to cut wash and freeze.
I see some reference where people blanch them than freeze. Blanching would may make it to much work I think, would rather toss a few stocks of celery.
What say you, and pointers or experience?
Would like to give my hand at freezing some veggies to 1)help speed things along when I don't have time to chop them. 2) we like to buy peppers, onion, celery etc. from Costco and can't always get through them all. 3) part of my OCD, when I start chopping I what to chop everything and be done with it and enjoy the fruits of my labor later.
I would prefer to cut wash and freeze.
I see some reference where people blanch them than freeze. Blanching would may make it to much work I think, would rather toss a few stocks of celery.
What say you, and pointers or experience?
- Fri Feb 12, 2016 9:58 am
- Forum: Personal Investments
- Topic: When do I start taxable account?
- Replies: 34
- Views: 4634
Re: When do I start taxable account?
Taxable is not the only option after retirement accounts (IRA's, 401K, 403B, etc.), some fill up with Ibonds then taxable after that.
Sounds like you are married, ibonds could give you another $20k of space + $5k if you want to mess with your tax return. Keep in mind ibonds need to fit in your plan.
Sounds like you are married, ibonds could give you another $20k of space + $5k if you want to mess with your tax return. Keep in mind ibonds need to fit in your plan.
- Fri Feb 12, 2016 8:04 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: skiing after 70
- Replies: 15
- Views: 2879
Re: skiing after 70
A gentleman I work with downhill skis at age 82, he bought his first helmet this year
He also still works and easy 50 hours/week, he does not considerate work however!
He also still works and easy 50 hours/week, he does not considerate work however!
- Fri Feb 12, 2016 7:52 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: $50 Amazon tablet
- Replies: 39
- Views: 5695
Re: $50 Amazon tablet
If one wanted to stay with the Google eco system and not have to mess around a hack to make it work on the Fire what would be a Fire tablet cousin?
The only thing having me second guess a Fire is the lack of Hangouts.
The only thing having me second guess a Fire is the lack of Hangouts.
- Thu Feb 11, 2016 3:47 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: magic numbers on checks
- Replies: 20
- Views: 5600
Re: magic numbers on checks
A box of checks last us many years, think I would just use the bank.prudent wrote:Probably varies a lot, but for me the difference was $23 (bank) vs $11 (mail order for the cheapest plain jane checks).adamthesmythe wrote:Is there some cost advantage to not buying from the bank's printer??
Full disclosure, last time we got checks they were free from the bank, that had to be 5 years ago, I think its part of our "banking package"
- Thu Feb 11, 2016 2:58 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: $50 Amazon tablet
- Replies: 39
- Views: 5695
Re: $50 Amazon tablet
Don't want to derail the OP thread but why is this thing so cheap? I would spend $40 just to have a tablet next to my chair to surf the web. Is this supported with a pile of adds or something?DSInvestor wrote:They are also available at your local BestBuystore for the same price as Amazon. $39.99. Good option if you don't want to wait for shipping.random_walker_77 wrote:For the money, it's actually a pretty good tablet. fyi, it's on sale at amazon right now for $40
For those who prefer iPads, Bestbuy is currently selling iPad Mini 3 128GB WiFi only model for $299.99. The mini 3 128GB with cellular is $429.99. I think this is a President Day special.
- Thu Feb 11, 2016 2:43 pm
- Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
- Topic: VIX Index
- Replies: 22
- Views: 3097
Re: VIX Index
I did not spend much time going down the rabbit hole but that was the conclusion I was coming to.quantAndHold wrote: I've run some tests myself, and I'm not convinced that the VIX predicts much of anything that's actionable.
- Thu Feb 11, 2016 2:06 pm
- Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
- Topic: VIX Index
- Replies: 22
- Views: 3097
VIX Index
I'm trying to wrap my head around the VIX index. In the most basic form the VIX index means: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VIX represents one measure of the market's expectation of stock market volatility over the next 30-day period. The VIX is quoted in percentage points and represents the expected range of movement in the S&P 500 index over the next year, at a 68% confidence level (i.e. one standard deviation of the normal probability curve). For example, if the VIX is 15, this represents an expected annualized change, with a 68% probability, of less than 15% up or down. I took the past year VIX index and plop it on top the S&P, around August you see a sizable spike, looking forward 30 days or so it does appear to be more volatile...
- Thu Feb 11, 2016 11:24 am
- Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
- Topic: U.S. stocks in free fall
- Replies: 36221
- Views: 4650863
Re: U.S. stocks in freefall
I see we hit/set the 52 week low today, so we got that going for us.
I have been putting off checking my rebalancing bands, I may have to take a look, what can I say, I'm just lazy.
I have been putting off checking my rebalancing bands, I may have to take a look, what can I say, I'm just lazy.
- Thu Feb 11, 2016 9:33 am
- Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
- Topic: U.S. stocks in free fall
- Replies: 36221
- Views: 4650863
Re: U.S. stocks in freefall
About another 13% loss! At this rate it could be within the next 2 weeksbroadstone wrote:S&P on its way to 1600. I'm still 100% cash.
- Thu Feb 11, 2016 9:30 am
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: Estimating expenses in retirement
- Replies: 31
- Views: 4448
Re: Estimating expenses in retirement
This maybe a time to spend a few dollars on something like Quicken and run it for a year or two.
I have been using Quicken for about 5 years now, after the first 1-2 years you get a really good idea of what is going where, it does not take all that much time. Its useful tool, I really don't need to use it anymore unless something changes but being its take little effort I'm sticking with it for now.
I have been using Quicken for about 5 years now, after the first 1-2 years you get a really good idea of what is going where, it does not take all that much time. Its useful tool, I really don't need to use it anymore unless something changes but being its take little effort I'm sticking with it for now.
- Tue Feb 09, 2016 3:48 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Internet becoming "Small"
- Replies: 23
- Views: 4603
Re: Internet becoming "Small"
Thanks for this, I did enjoy this day in history, going to check this one out more often.Ron Swanson wrote:While I understand the premise of what you're saying (good content can be hard to find sometimes), I do believe that there is an entire world worth of things to watching and reading online. A few suggestions of things I do online that I enjoy...
1. Go to Wikipedia and read the article of the day, or the "on this day in history" on the main page. I'm no history buff, but there are tons of fascinating articles to read.
- Tue Feb 09, 2016 2:32 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Internet becoming "Small"
- Replies: 23
- Views: 4603
Re: Intenet becoming "Small"
I think you hit the nail on the head, as in a rut, that's what it feels like.mhalley wrote:I think with anything you can get into a rut. I have about 5 or so websites that I visit daily, but there are probably many more that I would enjoy if I found them. There is only so many hours in a day, even when you are retired.
- Tue Feb 09, 2016 2:00 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Internet becoming "Small"
- Replies: 23
- Views: 4603
Internet becoming "Small"
Is the internet starting to feel small for your daily personal use? I use the internet daily for many work functions, I remember doing my job without it for a number of years. At times I wish I could go back to the old way but that's another discussion :wink: I gave social media a whirl when my kids begged to be active online (they needed to be supervised), don't much care about that anymore. The local online newspaper is ok, I used to enjoy reading papers online from across the country but most of the content looks the same, its like suburbia across the USA. By far the biggest use of the internet for me is Netflix. Other uses include Bogleheads, a handful of Amateur Radio/SWL sites, online banking, podcast ever so often. With the dollars I...
- Tue Feb 09, 2016 1:09 pm
- Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
- Topic: iBond buying strategy: One Lump or Multiple Buys?
- Replies: 33
- Views: 4219
Re: iBond buying strategy: One Lump or Multiple Buys?
I like larger one time purchases, the less information you need to sift through on the TD site the better.
If you have his and her accounts I can see buying in every 6 months, one time per year per account.
If you have his and her accounts I can see buying in every 6 months, one time per year per account.
- Tue Feb 09, 2016 12:52 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: White Kitchen Cabinets?
- Replies: 55
- Views: 8855
Re: White Kitchen Cabinets?
White cabinets and trim work for that matter seems to be the latest trend that's for sure, about all I see the newer model homes.
- Tue Feb 09, 2016 12:01 pm
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: High school curriculum: Is filling out tax forms part of it?
- Replies: 49
- Views: 3762
Re: High school curriculum: Is filling out tax forms part of it?
I suspect that most people no longer balance checkbooks... Judging by the billions Americans pay in overdraft fees, I'd say you're right. Very true, but I was thinking more along the lines of online banking makes it unnecessary. I realized a while ago that I hadn't balanced a checking account in at least 5 years, because I no longer write paper checks (except maybe 2x a year) and all my transactions are recorded automatically. With billions in overdrafts, I'd say it is absolutely necessary! If people are overdrafting an account when all the transactions are recorded automatically, I suspect they simply aren't paying attention. Its just that they don't care. True story, was having a conversation with a 25 year old family member a few years ...
- Tue Feb 09, 2016 9:19 am
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: High school curriculum: Is filling out tax forms part of it?
- Replies: 49
- Views: 3762
Re: High school curriculum: Is filling out tax forms part of it?
Not taught at our High School, I think it would be helpful.
I learned it on my own, dad told me I needed to file, sent me to the library to pick up the EZ book/form and go thru it. He did check my first return for me, some 30 years ago.
I do admit of becoming a little lazy and just using tax software and not reading much about it anymore, our taxes are fairly simple. Can a person still get the printed sections with the forms and worksheets anymore?
I learned it on my own, dad told me I needed to file, sent me to the library to pick up the EZ book/form and go thru it. He did check my first return for me, some 30 years ago.
I do admit of becoming a little lazy and just using tax software and not reading much about it anymore, our taxes are fairly simple. Can a person still get the printed sections with the forms and worksheets anymore?
- Mon Feb 08, 2016 1:56 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: DISH TV versus DirecTV
- Replies: 22
- Views: 2786
Re: DISH TV versus DirecTV
Take a look at a TiVo, they do offer lifetime (no monthly fees) at cost of course. I would not even bother trying to watch TV without a DVR. We use the TiVo for OTA, Netfilx, Youtube and now giving Prime a whirl, all work really well. It will be the best $$ you can spend.JGG wrote: I'll lose DVR, which I will definitely miss.
- Mon Feb 01, 2016 4:09 pm
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: Just not interested any more [in investing]
- Replies: 42
- Views: 9715
Re: Just not interested any more [in investing]
Feel the same, not much interest.
I have thought about going all in on a single life fund and call it a day. If I did not have to deal with a taxable account it would be an easy decision.
I have thought about going all in on a single life fund and call it a day. If I did not have to deal with a taxable account it would be an easy decision.
- Mon Feb 01, 2016 12:51 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Buy a bigger vehicle to grow into?
- Replies: 28
- Views: 5053
Re: Buy a bigger vehicle to grow into?
If you are planning on doing any camping, fishing, etc. a larger SUV is most wonderful. We had 2 kids and had a Suburban, yeah the big old gas guzzler. We were very active outdoor wise and the space + pulling capability was used often.
We also spent many years driving back and forth to sport activities, taking turns with other parents. This seemed to happen more around ages 8-15.
If you are thinking of CRV I would also take a look at a Highlander, they seem to be a nice compromise, 3rd row a little longer etc.
If you end up with a hockey player, soccer player, etc. get a truck or something that you can gain some distance from the stinky/sweaty gear. Those traveling games can be a flowery ride home!
We also spent many years driving back and forth to sport activities, taking turns with other parents. This seemed to happen more around ages 8-15.
If you are thinking of CRV I would also take a look at a Highlander, they seem to be a nice compromise, 3rd row a little longer etc.
If you end up with a hockey player, soccer player, etc. get a truck or something that you can gain some distance from the stinky/sweaty gear. Those traveling games can be a flowery ride home!
- Wed Jan 27, 2016 2:06 pm
- Forum: Personal Investments
- Topic: Treasury Direct is a waste of time
- Replies: 80
- Views: 31983
Re: Treasury Direct is a waste of time
When I clear out my browser TD needs to email a new passcode (I think that's what causes it). Sometimes I get the passcode in a few seconds, sometimes it never comes but if I try it again a few days latter and the passcode will come right thru.
The site is a tad undesirable, when I go to log out it ask to rate my experience, I always vote "poor" The more I think about it I should vote "excellent", I would hate for an upgrade and it becomes worse!
The site is a tad undesirable, when I go to log out it ask to rate my experience, I always vote "poor" The more I think about it I should vote "excellent", I would hate for an upgrade and it becomes worse!
- Mon Jan 25, 2016 2:48 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Dinner Ideas
- Replies: 57
- Views: 10347
Re: Dinner Ideas
One of my new quick one pans meals, can change it up and add some chicken, etc. Beans and Rice Ingredients 1 teaspoon olive/vegetable oil 1 onion, chopped 1 T minced garlic 3/4 cup uncooked white rice 1 1/2 cups chicken broth broth 2 teaspoon ground cumin 1 tsp chili powder 3 1/2 cups canned black beans, drained (2)15 oz cans. 1 can of RoTel Directions In a stockpot over medium-high heat, heat the oil. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 4 minutes. Add the rice and sauté for 2 minutes. Add the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, cover and lower the heat and cook for 20-30 minutes. Add the spices and black beans. Beans and rice is a staple in our house. I'm gonna give this a try. I forgot to add you need to very the cook time by the type o...
- Mon Jan 25, 2016 2:13 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Dinner Ideas
- Replies: 57
- Views: 10347
Re: Dinner Ideas
Some good stuff in here, thanks.FrogPrince wrote:http://www.leannebrown.com is THE boglehead cookbook - it's written by a nutritionist on how to eat healthy on the cheap, it has a wide variety of dishes from multiple cuisines, and best of all the pdf is free if you don't want to buy the book! I downloaded the pdf at first, and liked it so much I bought the book. Highly recommended.
- Mon Jan 25, 2016 1:56 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Dinner Ideas
- Replies: 57
- Views: 10347
Re: Dinner Ideas
This is not a meal in itself but can help make a quick meal. We will make a pile of burritos/Enchiladas. Bean and cheese, Cheese and onion, so many options. We will make around 30 or so at a shot and freeze them. Take the above and mix up the following gravy, toss it over some burritos/enchiladas and bake it, microwave it with some cheese on top if you wish etc. It the closest thing I found to Tex-Mex that I find in our local restaurants. You can make up the gravy and keep it in the fridge for future use. I'm not sure why they call it Gravy, but its tasty. Enchilada Chili Gravy Ingredients: 1/4 cup lard or vegetable oil 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1 teaspoon powdered garlic 2 teaspoon ground cu...
- Mon Jan 25, 2016 1:46 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Dinner Ideas
- Replies: 57
- Views: 10347
Re: Dinner Ideas
Another Easy one, you can make a pile of this and freeze it as well. Serve it over rice, toss in some veggies etc. Bourbon Chicken Units: US | Metric 2 lbs boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces 1 -2 tablespoon olive oil 1 garlic clove, crushed 1/4 teaspoon ginger 3/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes 1/4 cup apple juice 1/3 cup light brown sugar 2 tablespoons ketchup 1 tablespoon cider vinegar 1/2 cup water 1/3 cup soy sauce Directions: 1 Editor's Note: Named Bourbon Chicken because it was supposedly created by a Chinese cook who worked in a restaurant on Bourbon Street. 2 Heat oil in a large skillet. 3 Add chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned. 4 Remove chicken. 5 Add remaining ingredients, heating over medium Heat u...
- Mon Jan 25, 2016 1:43 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Dinner Ideas
- Replies: 57
- Views: 10347
Re: Dinner Ideas
One of my new quick one pans meals, can change it up and add some chicken, etc.
Beans and Rice
Ingredients
1 teaspoon olive/vegetable oil
1 onion, chopped
1 T minced garlic
3/4 cup uncooked white rice
1 1/2 cups chicken broth broth
2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 tsp chili powder
3 1/2 cups canned black beans, drained (2)15 oz cans.
1 can of RoTel
Directions
In a stockpot over medium-high heat, heat the oil. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 4 minutes. Add the rice and sauté for 2 minutes.
Add the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, cover and lower the heat and cook for 20-30 minutes. Add the spices and black beans.
Beans and Rice
Ingredients
1 teaspoon olive/vegetable oil
1 onion, chopped
1 T minced garlic
3/4 cup uncooked white rice
1 1/2 cups chicken broth broth
2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 tsp chili powder
3 1/2 cups canned black beans, drained (2)15 oz cans.
1 can of RoTel
Directions
In a stockpot over medium-high heat, heat the oil. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 4 minutes. Add the rice and sauté for 2 minutes.
Add the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, cover and lower the heat and cook for 20-30 minutes. Add the spices and black beans.
- Mon Jan 25, 2016 1:40 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Netflix increasing prices. Will you keep it?
- Replies: 73
- Views: 13858
Re: Netflix increasing prices. Will you keep it?
I gave Prime a whirl when they had the $73 special a couple of weeks ago, also have been with Netflix long before they started online content.
I find myself using Prime's music streaming service, if Netflix is going to raise it pricing they may want to think about adding something of value at the same time.
I find myself using Prime's music streaming service, if Netflix is going to raise it pricing they may want to think about adding something of value at the same time.
- Mon Jan 25, 2016 11:21 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Best Android app to send/receive texts from PC?
- Replies: 7
- Views: 1313
Re: Best Android app to send/receive texts from PC?
+2 or is it +3!noraz123 wrote:I am not aware of any of the apps you mention, but I find Google Hangouts combined with my Google Voice number perfect for this use case. I can send/receive texts from both my phone and my computer.
This platform has worked great for us. I hope Google does not abandon the project, for now they seem to be improving it so that's a good sign. They added multiple SMS (groups) a few months ago, I would say its primetime now.
- Thu Jan 21, 2016 10:16 am
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: Here We Go Again: SWR 2.5% or 5.5%?
- Replies: 115
- Views: 17521
Re: Here We Go Again: SWR 2.5% or 5.5%?
I think using the definition of SWR as it stands is somewhat a farce. I could be totally wrong but I think the reality is that very few use a static withdrawal rate during retirement, more use some form of VWR.
SWR to me is a guide used to shoot for how big of I pile I would like, you have to start someplace.
This however is something I have been having a hard time wrapping my head around, I have been using 3% for planning but I question it. The difference between 3% and 4% makes a big difference in my world. I would prefer the option to retire a few years earlier, more so as I get older!
SWR to me is a guide used to shoot for how big of I pile I would like, you have to start someplace.
This however is something I have been having a hard time wrapping my head around, I have been using 3% for planning but I question it. The difference between 3% and 4% makes a big difference in my world. I would prefer the option to retire a few years earlier, more so as I get older!