Money Smart Blog

Tax Plan for the Tax Man

You’ve still got time before taxes are due on April 18, 2023, but why not complete your taxes early? If you’re surprised by a tax bill, don’t fret; set up payment options that suit your needs. If you’re getting a refund, completing your taxes early will ensure you receive your refund much sooner. If you […]

Estate Planning Without an Estate

Estate Planning Without an “Estate” When the words “estate planning” come to mind, many people think of billionaires such as Bill Gates or Mitt Romney. These wealthy Americans certainly do have an estate and a very complex estate plan. However, anyone with a few dollars in the bank or a life insurance policy technically have […]

Payday Lending Alternatives

Everyone in St. Louis seems to have an opinion on payday lending. Politicians decry the industry as usurious. Consumer advocates demand that ‘predatory lenders’ be shut down. Middle and higher-income people don’t understand why the loans cost so much, or why anyone would take one out. Meanwhile, the consumers who use these services just want […]

Surviving a Drop in Income

Are you concerned about your income dropping in this challenging environment?  Whether it is already happening or may be in the near future, now is the time to review your spending and resources and make changes.  If you continue spending at the same rate, with less income, you may find yourself going deep into debt […]