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4/03/2014

Measures Energy Companies Adopt to Help their Consumers Save Money


Saving N Spending


Posted: 01 Apr 2014 08:18 PM PDT
5 Budget-Conscious Ways To Include Traveling In Your CalendarAfter the recession, consumers are more aware of energy costs and the need to reduce them. Energy companies have a responsibility to provide energy saving solutions to customers, and the government has introduced the "energy companies obligation" scheme.

Energy Companies Obligation

The energy companies obligation (ECO)scheme is set up to support households in becoming more energy efficient. Your energy supplier can evaluate whether you are eligible basedon income and what measures are required to upgrade your home. npower provides more useful information about the scheme, and how you can find out if you are eligible for it.
Some of those that would be considered for this type of program are:
  • Those receiving pension credit
  • Those in income support or receiving jobseeker's allowance
  • Those receiving disable child premium
  • Those with disabilities
This scheme ensures that low-income households receive adequate insulation in their home to keep them warm in the winter and cool in the summer, whilst reducing energy costs throughout.



The Green Deal

The green deal works in a similar way to the ECO scheme, however it operates as a loan. Instead of receiving free care from the government, the green deal allows consumers to receive home insulation, which is then repaid through the savings they make on their energy bill as a result. As such it is open to a wider range of consumers.
Like the ECO scheme, consumers can check their eligibility online. Once that assessment is complete, the energy company can go in to provide insulation. Customers may receive either cavity or solid wall insulation, depending on the style of house. To learn more about the difference between the two, take a look at this helpful blog post.

Energy Saving Tips

Additionally, energy companiesprovide tips for saving energy in the home.Providing information about how much energy different appliances in the home use can help customers understand where they can save money by cutting down usage. Some suggest products customers can buy that reduce energy usage, such as energy saving light bulbs that use up to 75% less energy than regular bulbs.

Promoting Renewable Energy

With focus very much shifting towards renewable energy sources, energy companies have a responsibility to promote these to customers, encouraging them to adopt these and generate their own renewable energy. There is currently a scheme called feed in tariff (FIT), which encourages customers to install solar panels in their homes to generate their own renewable electricity. The scheme pays them for the electricity they generate, as well as the energy they feed back into the grid. This is a great practical way to get consumers thinking about renewable energy and is a move towards fulfilling the goal of making 15% of all energy produced in the UK renewable.

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Can You Use a Logbook Loan to Fund Your Start-Up?


Saving N Spending


Posted: 02 Apr 2014 08:56 PM PDT
Hiring a Licensed Financial AdvisorThat's an interesting question for start-up founders and it's also interesting to note just how many start-ups have been founded through unorthodox means.

Here are three to derive inspiration from … or not. It might be safer that you don't!

BloomNation

Farbod Shoraka and two friends, David Daneshgar and Gregg Weisstein, used Daneshgar's winnings at the 2011 World Series of Poker, $27,000, to fund their start-up.

CityRewardsNetwork

David Moore presold his service to sixty customers for $1,000 each, but he also did something you're advised against; he applied for eight credit cards simultaneously. "I had to be quicker than the reporting system so the inquiries didn't show on my credit report."

PracticeFusion

"I was broadsided by a car while riding my Ducati through an intersection in San Francisco," says CEO Ryan Howard. The money from the settlement money was used to keep what was proving to be an unsustainable start-up going, one that's now immensely profitable.
Whilst these are inspiring stories, bear in mind there are many ways to fund a start-up business, many of which don't require collateral at all, and for that reason, not to mention the fact that there's always the chance that an unsuccessful start-up endeavour could see its founders sleeping in their cars, it's best to explore the options available to you before you apply for a logbook loan.
Don't quit your day job … yet
One of the best ways to fund your start-up, and incidentally one of the best ways to help you raise start-up capital by applying for loans like logbook loans and personal loans, is to keep working, i.e. don't quit your day job.
As long as you're working you'll still have an income and although you won't have as much time to focus upon your start-up venture, you will, however, find that your chances of funding your start-up venture by applying for loans and finance is much better than when you're unemployed, which is generally what start-up founders are until things start going well.
Enter a contest
Sure, it sounds laughable but the prize money offered by organisations and philanthropists to encourage start-up innovation is anything but a joke, take the Amazon Web Services Start-Up Challenge for example. This contest boasts an annual reward of $50,000 plus another $50,000 in AWS credits each year to businesses.
Many major universities also offer outstanding reward money for start-up innovation with world-renowned MIT offering prize money in excess of $350,000 annually for accelerate, launch and pitch contests.
That's something worth competing for.
Crowdfunding
As a start-up founder you'll most certainly be aware of crowdfunding websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo, the big names in crowdfunding at the present point in time.
Like the contests discussed above, competition is rife and it suffices to say that the vast majority of start-ups trying to appeal to conscientious consumers go unfunded. However, business is all about competing and getting your name and ideas out there so you won't be wasting your time at all provided that you learn something in the process.
Loans – Secured and unsecured
At last, a more conventional approach! Loans might be a more conventional approach but it suffices to say that you stand a better chance of securing the start-up capital you require by applying for a logbook loan at carcashpoint.com, where you use your car as collateral, or an unsecured loan, where you needn't provide any collateral at all.
If you're going to apply for a logbook or personal loan to fund your start-up, consider the advice given earlier – don't quit your day job – it makes all the difference.
About the Author:
Discover a quick and easy way to get logbook loans at Carcashpoint.com, a lending company that provides hassle-free solutions to people’s financial needs.
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Posted: 02 Apr 2014 08:49 PM PDT
7 Rights that you Have while Being Targeted by the IRS
Being audited is one of the most painstaking experiences for taxpayers even for people like Mitt Romney, Bill Gates, Warren Buffett, and many other business owners. In the event of an IRS audit, your best advantage is to know your rights. Be aware of the following seven rights that you have while being targeted by the IRS and you will potentially have a better time when you go through your IRS audit or other related issues.

1. Act Accordingly

You have the right to know the IRS rules and act accordingly. Keep your company out of trouble during an IRS audit by following directions listed on your audit letter. Organize records accordingly, and immediately replace missing records with duplicates. When it’s time for your audit, only bring what is asked for. Extra records that were not requested could inadvertently get your company into trouble. Do not try to go above and beyond or try to impress the agent. Remain professional, courteous and punctual. Your agent is a trained professional, and you should reflect that attitude to keep your business in good standing. If you can act and remain professional during your IRS audit, you are likely to either get in less or in no trouble at all. As a result, it will keep your business out of scrutiny of he federal government.

2. Representation

If your company is being audited, you have the right to represent yourself or hire professional representation. An attorney, CPA (certified public accountant) or enrolled agent can help guide you through the audit process and field questions during the actual audit. They can help you remain professional and organized for your audit as well as keep you informed of your rights throughout the audit process. They can also advise you how or how not to answer questions asked by the IRS auditor.

3. Confidentiality

Your audit will stay between you and the IRS, without being disclosed to anyone else. Throughout your audit, you have the right to inquire about the purpose and importance of information being requested. You also have the right to ask what the consequences will be if you decline to furnish requested information.

4. Quality Service

During an audit, you have the right to receive quality, professional service. IRS agents are specifically trained in customer service, and they should courteously address your concerns. If your service is below par or if the IRS agent makes you feel uncomfortable in anyway or somehow oversteps their bounds, you have the right to file a complaint with your region’s IRS Director.

5. Responsibility for Tax Payments

If the IRS is targeting you, know that you will not owe more than the accurate tax payment due. This means that you are responsible for the amount of taxes you owe, but you cannot be “charged” more tax payments than are due by law. Also, you have the right to set up a payment plan if you cannot pay the entire amount of taxes due at your audit.

6. Appeals

In the event your audit produces a result that you believe is unfair or incorrect, you can appeal to the IRS. Either the IRS Appeals Office or a court can review your tax case and determine whether your tax liability or collections status is appropriate. Having some form of legal representation also comes in handy in this scenario as well, as they can help you review your case and truly make sure that you have been treated unfairly. They can also help you do battle in the IRS Appeals Office or in court.

7. Waived Penalties and Interest

During your audit, if you acted in good faith of an IRS employee and incurred penalties or interest due to incorrect advice, you have the right to have these costs waived. A request to have these penalties and interest waived can be requested in writing.
When the IRS is auditing you, remember the seven rights above as they will help keep you and any other party involved out of trouble. These will help you move through the process smoothly and successfully. If you have questions regarding an audit, please contact a lawyer, CPA or enrolled agent
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Posted: 02 Apr 2014 04:37 PM PDT
7 Things We Pay Too Much Money For And WhyLike most people, you probably worry that you are paying too much for the things you purchase. Although the old axiom about getting what you pay for is true in some circumstances, there are a number of goods and services that people routinely pay too much for. Here are seven examples to help you cut the unwanted fat from your budget.

ATM Fees

If you routinely use a conveniently located ATM from another bank, you pay for the privilege. Consider switching to the bank that supports the ATM, or plan ahead and get free withdrawals from your bank, a cooperating branch of a competitor or in the form of cash-back withdrawals from a grocery store. Use credit cards instead if you need to buy something last minute and don’t have any cash.

Auto Maintenance

Regardless of what your dealer may imply, any qualified mechanic can do routine maintenance on your car. Check with local garages, high school, technical college programs or even the local auto parts store to see how much you can save on maintenance. The best way to save is to do simple repairs like oil changes yourself. Keeping up with maintenance on your vehicle will prevent you from having to pay too much for repairs. If you car does need extensive repair with the help of a professional, consider buying used parts online to save more money.

Brand Name Food Items

If only one cola really hits the spot, the extra you pay for the signature taste may be worth it. However, for many products you use, there are private-label versions that will do just as well. Start slowly by trying a few off-brand products here and there. You may be surprised by both the quality and the savings you receive.

Family Photos

It’s impossible to put a price on precious family photos, but that doesn’t mean you have to pay too much for them. Look for special sales and discount coupons for your favorite studio, or call local photographers to compare prices. Many local studios will offer family portrait discounts throughout the year to help you save on your pictures. Picking a quality photographer or studio upfront might seem a little pricey at first, but you will save you bundle with clear and nice pictures the first time. Rather than paying someone else to get them done again throughout the year, spend the money only once a year and get quality photos.

Fast Food

Takeout really isn’t any faster or more convenient than making a cold cut sandwich for your lunch or grabbing a muffin on your way out the door in the morning. Take the time to learn a few simple one-pot dinner recipes and you can eliminate most fast-food at dinner time, as well.

Weddings

While weddings are supposed to be a once in a lifetime event where family and friends can celebrate, that doesn’t mean it has to come with a hefty price tag. Save money by bundling flowers, the cake and decorations from one place. Often times, the search for the perfect item can cause headaches and more money, when it can often be done at one location. Hiring a wedding planner is also a great investment, because they can get you the best deals that aren’t offered to anyone else.

Utilities

While paying utilities is something you can never avoid, you can save by taking a few steps starting in your home. Seal windows and doors, or invest in better windows, to save you a load of money during the winter. Getting LED light bulbs will also save you in electricity, as well as the need to replace them as often. Turning off lights and lowering the heat settings a night is also a simple way to spend less on utilities.
Saving money can be painful, but it doesn’t always have to be that way. Try these tips to reduce your bottom line without cramping your style.
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3/30/2014

Asia Insurance Focus on motorcycle insurance 120 million profit targets.

"Mr.Julpayap Srikanchana" Chairman and Managing Director of Asia Insurance . 1950 Limited ( the Company ), the leader 3 Plus Car Insurance said this year the company plans to open new sales channels as E-Insurance and Retail sales channels to reach consumers even more. The detailed terms and conditions is unknown, consumers and specified clear coverage is already inexpensive , do not check your car . The strategy of single premiums , whether purchased from the channels. Thus adding convenience to more customers by expanding new channels.
Previously, the company succeeded in expanding sales channels up on BTS Skytrain station . Excellent sales And plans to expand into the gas station with small branches . Retail is one of the channels that the company wants to expand . The channel is the major agent present. In addition, the company is focused on selling insurance 3 + ( Plus ) motorcycles increased.
Which saw a motorbike from the market with up to 19 million vehicles per year and an increase of 2 million units, while the insurance is not a 1 lakh car market with the potential to grow even more. This year our goal is building insurance premiums. Baht 2,500 million , 30% growth is expected to generate a profit of 120 million baht " . By Matichon (Thailand News)

3/26/2014

Car insurance case.: Collide in America.

What experiences (the bad) and I have a question here. We brake for a red light and a car came to the end of a very big GMC pickup. Plying the vehicle, and we go with it and see but little, and he is not factored, and we did not ask for.
What no pictures or remember him. (Missed 1) ... finished bookmarks. The next vehicle To the back of the lane came down and said. "I can pick up ... I hit you " Beside his vehicle and ran off. By that we did not ask anything of them. Actually he witness it. (Missed 2) The car that hit the car I did not as I just bent up the car, we battered it. Trunk does not close No one hurt, we just take the insurance and driver's license to trade. We talked, he also apologized to us. And we took his car in front (message 3). He pulled me along the way and not taken directly to the scene (not 4) and did not call the police (I do not know what I missed 5). Different people call insurance and dispersed. I call back and ask your insurance. Told him to
The GMC truck insurance to refuse to pay someone to pick up that butt him again. The car he bounced into us. The vehicle then fled the (presumably forever. Anyone to lie to you ... the skin on). In conclusion, we may have to pay a deductible. $ 500 if the person was not found. (The GMC told to crash it. It does not have to be). We will not have to pay ... If. Arrested the truck collided with the truck, no one can prove that. It produced * We guarantee that the parties take the rear tailgate. But still quiet
1 answer
Why we need to find a GMC pickup truck that hit me too. Why do we have to pay $ 500 for it too. GMC pickup when insurance does not pay, who will pay for it (insurance and b. Would be paid to me).
2 answers
We had just hit New Year's Eve. This past New Year. The narrow streets of the village We're back They fit other cars are driving a car that backed out before waving to us. It appears that crashed back to the parked car across the intersection. I do not car What no scratches We just scratched the car a little This car is the car of my friend who came to visit our neighbors. House and park entrance fit. I leave it to a friend's house. Big picture Let our insurance card Then he drove home structures. One day I was called that. I have to take the car into the garage for repairs. We need to rent a car to drive while the car repair. We did not want to bail on. We are told to take the car to the driver. We will pay for itself To repair the car to hit that much. I will not guarantee it. I must say that the car in the center. What traces have several Now it is afraid that he will lift the suspension all. We must
3 answers
Earlier this year, I met you. I did not call the police But also good insurance, I called his opponents were wrong. I have some repair costs
4 answers
Hit on 2 years ago and we wait and wait and the children start school, we sit in less than 5 minutes, he backed the car into the side. We realized that he had seen. He retired because he had to look at the mirror behind the car park. We do not honk warning. The driver's side, we did a nothing. If you come across a good party, it is considered very lucky you'll get. The first thing you should know. He will know that we are the Asian Law to us bitchy one. Maybe you do not trust the police He would favor the same country If you're wrong, you speak the truth, everything. Do not move the car until the police come. I took this picture Whether the side behind the battery with vehicle registration Keep in mind that I got the shot. It's because some people think we do not know the language. It quickly moved the car to see if we are wrong. He said that the first call it insurance. But you do not have insurance because he did not trust in the event with us. When they talk, we do not know how far he had to say. If possible, you should talk to your insurance first. My full size duty he was wrong, he also tried to tell the police that I was wrong. He backed into my car and ran to call someone to see. The left another child on the bus. I instead went to the police to ask us first what it is. I went over there to ask people Went away talking in the third person that I know he would say. I'll call you before. I know that if I call the insurance does not help now. I said that perhaps the insurance did not help much. Because my insurance is also called to tell me that. Police tell us the wrong people He backed the car out and we ran to the back. He can not see ? forgot to say that I'm not white, he was a guest. Asia is the same He thought we did Rn law to pay him, but said I was Maximillian air here is very rich with friends, the police and lawyers but we do argue that we do not know if the court is up there for me in a hurry. Change the sound If people here talking lawyer is talking about brushing. People are afraid that the court Long to remember what I said I was not angry Western Asia, it is like being taken advantage of if on many cases. I wanted to give everyone the time of consciousness whatever. I think that if I'm not rich and I do not. If I have to pay money either to my own being. And the need to waste money repairing the car yourself. I did not want any of this to happen to anyone. In overseas Tough justice
5 answers
He did not call the police, and no Collision Insurance. For the b lucky if insurance paid for by waste Deductible $ 500 or refused to pay it. Also to sue the cars collided at the Small Claim Court in the area of ??the crash. I sure do not know the rules of the state DMV that the repairs exceed it. To inform him too.
6 answers
Talk to me about your insurance. And write letters to any party. Told us to write a letter of complaint. Track announced a board or in the DMV, then find someone who is in the witness turned off to hide the fact that criminal cases will be harder than ever. As well as the premiums are high, raged with the wrong people often feel worried or ashamed deposit agreed perhaps seen outside around it.

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