Companies and Tools I love:

I take very seriously any company or product that I recommend.  First and foremost it cannot affect what I teach about money.  Secondly I prefer to have used the product – only one way to tell if it is really good or not!

HR Block – They have fantastic training (I have actually been through it), they have great support both online and offline.  Plus they have permanent year round locations that will help you with any tax issue year round.  If you don’t have a CPA, HR Block is the one to trust!

 

 

Morningstar:  I use Morningstar for all of my investing research.  I do use the premium version and have since 2001.  It is easy to use and you can sort by just about any criteria you want.  They also have a cool portfolio analyzer tool that lets you get an overview of everything in one place.  While there are a few things I wish they made easier, it is the best resource out there to quickly analyze your investments.  Very helpful!*

 

I love to save money – one of the easiest ways that I have found is to buy discounted gift cards.  That is right – gift cards at a discount.  Someone gets a gift card, does not want it and then sells it for cash.  You get what you need at a discount.  I have updated bathrooms using Lowes cards, out to dinner with restaurant cards, and back to school shopping with Old Navy.  Make sure you only buy what you need, better to buy less and not have extra money sitting around on cards.  Most importantly remember to use them!*

 

ING DIRECT – When I first started using on-line banking (with no branches) I was a bit hesitant.  I started slowly with a savings account and piece by piece added new accounts.  Now I am in love with this style of banking!  I started back in 2007 with ING DIRECT and love them.  They keep adding new services and my love for on-line banking grows.  Best part – it is easy and pays better rates than regular banks!*

 

Mint – this is a great online tool that helps you manage your money – for FREE!  Who does not like free.  After you register you link your account to your banks and they automatically download and categorize everything for you when you log in.  You can even have it set up to text you when you are at your budget and they have a great app for your phone.  Give it a try – the worth thing that could happen is you stay on budget!

 

*Links are affiliate links (AKA we get money if you buy from them), don’t worry I DO NOT promote anything that I would not use myself