#financial advisor cost

[financial-advice]

What Does a Financial Advisor Do?

A financial advisor is a professional who helps individuals and businesses manage their financial affairs. Financial advisors offer a variety of services, including:

Developing a financial plan: A financial advisor can help you develop a financial plan that outlines your financial goals and the steps you need to take to achieve them. This may include creating a budget, setting financial goals, and identifying investment opportunities.

Providing investment advice: A financial advisor can help you choose investments that align with your financial goals and risk tolerance. This may include stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and other investment vehicles.

Managing assets: A financial Planner can help you manage your assets, including reviewing and rebalancing your investment portfolio. They can also help you make informed decisions about buying and selling investments.

Advising on insurance and retirement planning: A financial advisor can help you choose the right insurance coverage for your needs and assist with retirement planning, including setting up a retirement savings plan and choosing the right investments for your retirement.

Providing tax planning advice: A financial advisor can help you understand the tax implications of your financial decisions and provide guidance on tax-saving strategies.

Financial advisors may work with individuals or businesses, and they may specialise in specific areas such as retirement planning, estate planning, or investment management. It’s important to choose a financial advisor who is a good fit for your needs and who has the necessary skills and experience to help you achieve your financial goals.

[spongek-squidge]

Headcanon that the only reason Batman hasn’t paid off Mr Freeze and let him have the funding to heal his wife is entirely because his head of finances is done with his bullshit

Like they know Bruce Wayne’s doing some shit, and while they know it isn’t shady because they had to listen to Bruce rant about corruption while requesting money to donate to charity, they still know they can’t risk giving the man anymore money, especially money for a *criminal*

I want a storyline of Bruce begging his financial advisor for money for Mr Freeze and the advisor is like “Mr Wayne, I appreciate you’re the richest man in Gotham by a long shot and aren’t in any danger of bankruptcy, but I gave you $1 million for an animal shelter at your sons request last week, if you want this money you need to learn to fucking prioritise.”

Batman doesn’t fire them because they’re the only thing keeping Wayne industries from losing funding because Bruce is a massive softy that can’t stop giving people money

[unisonglobususa]

Revealing How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Professional CPA

Generally, a CPA’s hourly rate or cost to hire a CPA range from $150 to $450, depending on experience and location. Here, we have a detailed guide for the same.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a CPA?

Few individuals enjoy doing math and figuring out their taxes. You probably prefer to do almost anything other than pore over your accounts and tax documents. Thankfully, skilled professionals are familiar with the complexities of taxes and can handle them for you.

At Unison Globus, we’ve noticed a heightened interest in CPA costs and the average hourly rate of hiring a CPA. To help our readers better understand the cost of hiring a CPA, we have put together this review to address key questions consumers are asking:

How much does a CPA cost?

What is the cost of hiring a CPA?

How much does a CPA cost per hour?

How much does a CPA charge to do your taxes?

CPAs (Certified Public Accountants) are the professionals to contact if the notion of figuring out your taxes makes you sick to your stomach. But how much does one have to spare to employ a CPA to help you with your taxes?

What Does a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Mean, and What Does a CPA Do?

Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) are tax specialists who can prepare your company’s tax returns, answer crucial financial questions, and even save you money. CPAs earn their qualification after passing the rigorous Uniform CPA Exam, which tests their knowledge of tax law and standard accounting procedures. Additionally, obtaining a CPA license involves meeting state-specific ethical standards and requirements.

To maintain their license, CPAs must complete continuing professional education courses. They risk losing their license if convicted of fraud, negligence, or ethical violations.

For small businesses, CPAs offer a wide range of services, including:

Bookkeeping: Managing daily financial records to ensure accuracy and compliance.

Financial Planning: Helping businesses plan for future financial stability and growth.

Tax Filing: Preparing and submitting tax returns accurately and on time.

Generating Financial Paperwork: Creating crucial documents like financial statements and audit reports.

CPAs are equipped to handle all your business’s tax obligations, including year-round recordkeeping and submitting tax extensions with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Here’s how CPAs can benefit your business:

Audit Fee Reduction: By negotiating with the IRS on your behalf regarding tax and financial compliance, CPAs can help you save money on audit fees.

Issue Identification: Their broad expertise allows CPAs to identify financial and tax issues before they become problematic, potentially avoiding audits.

Record Keeping and Fraud Prevention: CPAs can help you keep track of your records meticulously, thus preventing fraud.

Payroll Systems: They can set up effective payroll systems if your organization is not using top payroll software.

Financial Audits: CPAs are qualified to assist with both bookkeeping and financial audits of your business.

By leveraging a CPA’s expertise, you can ensure your business is financially sound and compliant with all relevant regulations, helping you avoid costly mistakes and optimize your financial operations.

Is a CPA Required for Your Company?

To profit from a CPA’s understanding of corporate finance, you don’t have to hire one as a full-time or even part-time employee; many offer their services as consultants. Consider hiring a CPA in the following circumstances:

Starting a Business: A CPA can help you set it up properly to avoid costly mistakes like unfair taxation.

Tax Season: CPAs can help prepare tax papers, submit tax forms, and develop strategies to alleviate your tax burden for the coming year.

Special Situations: Unexpected IRS auditing notices can develop as you manage your firm. CPAs have dealt with the IRS before and can assist you in responding effectively.

Institutional or Functional Changes: Acquiring, merging, or selling off the company, or forming or terminating an alliance, requires a CPA’s advice on the tax consequences for your company and yourself.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a CPA?

An accountant’s hourly rate is usually between $160 to $450. Several factors might influence the overall cost of hiring a CPA to do your taxes:

Form 1040 and State Tax Returns: Average preparation and filing cost of $220 without itemized deductions.

Itemized Form 1040 and State Tax Return: Average preparation and filing cost of $323.

Schedule C for Sole Proprietors: Additional $457 for preparing an itemized Form 1040 with a Schedule C.

Before meeting with a potential CPA, you should have a good notion of the services you require. Itemizing charges can give you a realistic understanding of how the CPA might assist your company in succeeding.

While it’s difficult to calculate how much you should pay a CPA precisely, knowing the typical charges is crucial.

Factors That Influence the Cost of Hiring a CPA

Qualification and Experience

While the thought of spending so much money to have your taxes handled by an expert may be painful, choosing an untrained tax counselor might backfire. Hiring an experienced CPA who isn’t likely to overlook anything and will do all possible to get you the most money back might be beneficial.

Like any other professional, CPAs use their experience and skill level to set prices. CPAs get paid at the top of the pay scale, most earning $150 to $250 per hour. On the other hand, top talent in a tax accounting company in a large city may fetch up to $500 per hour.

According to an Intuit survey, 57% of accountants and tax professionals charge by the hour, but only 44% charge a flat fee for corporate tax preparation services. The National Society of Accountants reports that a Form 1040 with a state return, Schedule A, and Schedule C costs an average of $481 to have a CPA prepare your taxes.

Remember, this is the simplest business return you can get. Tax returns for some C corporations and multi-member LLCs can cost tens of thousands of dollars. If you need year-round CPA guidance, expect to pay between $5,000 and $6,000.

Average Fees for Various Tax Filing Situations

Tax Form

Average Fee

Form 1040 (not itemized)

$220

Form 1040 (itemized)

$323

Form 940 – Federal unemployment

$78

Schedule B – Interest and Ordinary Dividends

$42

Schedule C – Business

$192

Schedule E – Earned Income Credit

$65

Schedule SE – Self-employment tax

$41

Location

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, CPAs earn a median hourly pay of $40. People who reside in the southern and central areas of the country should expect to pay less to have their taxes correctly done. In contrast, those near the west coast can expect to pay significantly more.

CPA prices in the West North Central States: roughly $214.

South Atlantic States: $268.

Mountain States: $263.

New England States: $333.

East North Central States: $249.

West South Central States: $271.

East South Central States: $210.

Middle Atlantic States: $290.

Pacific States: $329.

Region

Cost

West North Central States (IA, KS, MN, MO, ND, NE, SD)

$214

South Atlantic States (DE, FL, GA, MD, NC, SC, VA, WV)

$268

Mountain States (AZ, CO, ID, MT, NM, NV, UT, WY)

$263

New England States (CT, MA, ME, NH, RI, VT)

$333

East North Central States (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI)

$249

West South Central States (AR, LA, OK, TX)

$271

East South Central States (AL, KY, MS, TN)

$210

Middle Atlantic States (NJ, NY, PA)

$290

Pacific States (AK, CA, HI, OR, WA)

$329

You may anticipate spending more for your CPA’s services the longer it takes them to finish your taxes. When you include itemized deductions, you should expect to pay much more to get your taxes done correctly.

Fees for Administration, Paperwork, and a Flat Price Per Tax Form

A flat fee, perhaps the simplest of all, lets you know precisely how much you’ll be paying before your taxes are filed. Thus, depending on how many total tax forms you have, you may have to spend a significant amount to get your taxes done by a CPA.

Fees from the Previous Year’s Taxes

One of the benefits of having the same CPA every year is paying the same price each time they handle your taxes. If your taxes take longer than usual, it’s conceivable that your CPA will believe you should be paid extra for their services.

CPAs Who Charge What They Think Their Job Is Worth

Owners of accounting businesses charge between $200 and $250 per hour. The supervisory and senior staff gets frequently paid at a rate of $100 to $200 per hour. Additionally, junior employees get paid between $60 and $120 per hour. There are many CPAs’ costs based on what they presume one’s job is worth when it comes to filing your taxes.

While their fee may surprise you, keep in mind that any CPA good at their job understands the importance of his work and get accustomed to billing for it accordingly.

Hourly Rate of CPA

If you engage a CPA that charges by the hour, be sure you know exactly how much their hourly fee is before you hire them. CPAs frequently charge between $100 and $400 per hour for accounting needs and preparing customer tax returns.

Value

Tax preparation is a service many CPAs charge based on how much time and effort it takes them to complete your taxes. As a result, you may be in a situation where you and your CPA can’t agree on the final fee.

It’s crucial to note that even if their rate surprises you, any CPA worth their salt knows the value of their job and is used to charging the prices they quote. This is a good time to ask your CPA how you can make the process easier for them (and thus save money) for next year if the price seems out of line.

Hiring a CPA: Is It Worth It?

Investing in a qualified CPA may be more expensive upfront, but it can save you money in the long term. CPAs help you identify tax-saving opportunities, prepare the financial statements needed to attract investors or secure loans, and offer guidance on expanding your small business.

For some small businesses, basic accounting software or bookkeeping assistance may suffice. Sole proprietorships with few transactions and simple tax returns might benefit from DIY tax software, provided the business owner has a basic understanding of tax legislation.

However, certain situations necessitate the expertise of a professional accountant:

Audit Requirements: A CPA must audit all financial accounts to ensure compliance and accuracy.

Going Public: If you plan to go public with your company, GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) compliance is essential. GAAP provides standardized rules for measuring and reporting financial performance, helping investors compare financial statements across companies. Public corporations must maintain detailed records of their internal controls and comply with all applicable laws. Working with a CPA ensures you're prepared for an IPO (Initial Public Offering).

Complex Tax Situations: If your business has a highly complex tax situation, a CPA can help you file a consolidated tax return, take advantage of the Research and Development Tax Credit, or address other tax-related issues.

IRS Issues: In the event of an IRS audit or tax dispute, only CPAs, EAs (Enrolled Agents), and tax attorneys are permitted to represent taxpayers.

In-Depth Advisory Services: CPAs provide advisory and consulting services that go beyond simple financial concerns, offering strategic insights to improve your business’s financial health.

By leveraging a CPA’s expertise, you can navigate complex financial landscapes, ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, and make informed decisions that drive business growth. This makes hiring a CPA a valuable investment for many businesses.

Reduce the Cost to Hire a CPA

Every small business owner faces the challenge of managing costs, and working with a certified public accountant (CPA) is no exception. Here are some strategies to help reduce the cost of hiring a CPA:

Stay Organized

Bringing a box full of receipts to your CPA's office can lead to higher charges, as your accountant will bill you for the additional time spent organizing your receipts and financial documents. This could take several hours, adding unnecessary expenses.

On the other hand, if your bookkeeping is accurate and well-organized, it will make creating your tax return or delivering gathered, reviewed, or audited financial statements much more efficient for your CPA. This can significantly reduce your bill.

Establish a Long-Term Collaboration

Work with a CPA you trust and like. When you partner with the same CPA year after year, they become familiar with your business. This familiarity allows them to provide specialized counsel and notice concerns, such as fast-growing costs, dropping revenues, and potential indicators of employee fraud.

First-time CPA audit fees are comparatively higher because the auditors need to spend more time learning about your company, the industry in which it operates, and testing internal controls. Maintaining a relationship with the same accounting firm annually saves time for your auditor, which in turn helps keep costs low.

Look Out for a Proactive Approach

Before making any major business decisions, such as buying or selling a business, investing in fixed assets, hiring an employee, or any other significant changes, contact your CPA for assistance. They can ensure that transactions are structured most advantageously, potentially saving you money and avoiding costly mistakes.

By implementing these strategies, you can reduce the cost of working with a CPA while still benefiting from their expertise and services.

What Are the Alternatives to Hiring an Individual CPA?

For individuals and small businesses seeking alternatives to hiring an individual CPA, there are several options available that can provide effective financial management and tax preparation services.

Accounting and Tax Software

Popular accounting and tax software solutions include QuickBooks, TurboTax, Xero, and H&R Block. These software products offer various features to manage your finances and file taxes efficiently. Additionally, many of these platforms provide online interaction with tax professionals for an additional fee. However, for larger enterprises such as mega-corporations or multi-member limited liability companies, these software options might not be entirely suitable due to the complexity and scale of their financial needs.

Read More: Accounting Outsourcing 101: The Ultimate Guide for CPA and Accounting Firms

CPA Firms

CPA firms offer a comprehensive range of services, including accounting, auditing, financial consulting, and tax preparation for non-profit organizations, private businesses, public companies, and government agencies. By employing a team of professionals, CPA firms can handle complex financial tasks and provide strategic advice tailored to the specific needs of various business types.

Virtual CPA Platforms

Virtual CPA platforms like Taxhub, Taxfyle, and Visor are designed to serve freelancers and small business owners. These services offer virtual assistance for tax preparation, payroll management, accounting, and auditing needs. By leveraging technology, virtual CPA platforms provide convenient and often cost-effective solutions for managing financial tasks without the need for in-person consultations.

While estimating CPA costs for each case isn't a precise science, we can make some educated guesses based on industry studies about average CPA rates per hour. Each alternative has its advantages and limitations, and the best choice depends on the specific needs and complexity of your financial situation.

Advantages of Hiring a Professional CPA

When you hire a professional CPA to handle your taxes, you gain access to a range of services, including accounting, record-keeping, tax consulting, and auditing. This comprehensive support can be invaluable for managing your business's financial health and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations.

Specialized Expertise

If you run a small business or live abroad, working with a CPA who specializes in these areas can be particularly beneficial. When selecting a professional CPA, prioritize those with specific competencies relevant to your needs.

Efficient Accounting Systems

CPAs assist in developing efficient accounting systems that can reliably and conveniently analyze profitability, manage pricing and spending, control budgets, and estimate future financial trends. Their expertise ensures that your financial operations run smoothly and are well-organized.

Tax Compliance and Reduction

CPAs can help clients navigate complex tax-related issues, including tax compliance, laws, and tax-reduction measures. Their in-depth knowledge of the tax code allows them to identify opportunities for savings and ensure that you comply with all legal requirements.

Accurate Financial Reporting

Certified Public Accountants are equipped to prepare audit reports, financial statements, and other accounting records that meet government regulations and the requirements of lending institutions. Accurate financial reporting is essential for maintaining the trust of investors, creditors, and regulatory bodies.

Strategic Financial Advice

Hiring a professional CPA is an excellent starting point for working with a financial advisor. CPAs can assess your family's or company's financial standing and aspirations, offering essential guidance, personal tax reduction advice, and solutions to pressing financial concerns throughout the year.

Additional Advantages

Working with a CPA provides numerous additional benefits, including:

Error-Free Tax Filing: With your permission, CPAs can use professional software to prepare and file your tax returns accurately, maintaining your information on file for future use.

Tax Savings: CPAs often help clients save money on taxes due to their extensive experience and knowledge of the tax code.

Financial Reporting Coverage: CPAs typically ensure that errors in financial reporting are minimized, providing peace of mind and accurate financial records.

Read also: Multistate Tax Filing: What Does One Need to Know?

FAQs   

Is it beneficial to work with a CPA?

If your taxes are complicated, you don’t have the patience or talent to do it yourself, or you’re unsure about how specific tax rules or changes related to your circumstances, hiring a skilled CPA is worthwhile. To assist you in saving money on your taxes, a professional CPA will examine your specific tax position.

A CPA’s monthly fee for a small business?

The annual cost of an accountant for a small firm range from $1,000 to $5,000, including all fees and expenditures. A CPA can help your business with various tasks. Ex. Budgeting and fundraising, debt reduction, tax planning, business acquisitions, sales, and more.

CPA fees for a small business tax return: What should you expect to shell out?

The typical Schedule C small business tax return is $187, according to the National Society of Accountants. Filing a personal income tax return costs an additional $294 (or $188 if you take the standard deduction instead of itemizing).

What’s the best way to find a great CPA?

If you want to find a qualified CPA, you should start by asking for referrals from members of your family, friends, and coworkers. A list of tax preparers is available from the Internal Revenue Service, and most states have CPA societies.

Should small businesses hire a tax preparation service?

Hiring a tax preparer who specializes in this area is frequently advantageous for small businesses. Tax professionals can assist you in saving money and time. They also ensure that you adhere to applicable tax rules for business owners.

Do tax preparers and accountants charge different fees?

According to the individual, the cost difference between a tax preparer and an accountant can vary. CPA may be more expensive than a tax preparer to file basic taxes because they usually offer financial services as well.

Do CPAs charge by the hour?

Costs for accountants can range anywhere from $50 to $3,000, depending on the services provided. Also, it depends on whether the accountant is employed for personal or company use.

From $130 to $700, you can expect to pay for a tax accountant’s services.

How much does a small business CPA typically cost?

A bookkeeper’s rates range from $30 to $90 per hour. A CPA’s hourly rate ranges from $150 to $450, depending on experience and location.

Conclusion: Cost to Hire a CPA

CPA costs vary based on your region, the company you choose, and the purpose. Thus, this is a challenging scenario to navigate.

Because of the complexity of each circumstance and filing requirements, CPA tax preparation prices are even more difficult to research.

Remember that our typical CPA hourly rate review might give you a good idea of how much a CPA costs. However, you should call a local CPA for a more accurate evaluation of your financial position.

Are you looking to optimize your financial operations and ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements?

At Unison Globus, our team of seasoned CPAs offers comprehensive outsourcing solutions designed to meet the unique needs of your business. From bookkeeping and tax preparation to financial planning and audit services, we provide the expertise and support you need to achieve financial success.

By partnering with Unison Globus, you gain access to a dedicated team of professionals committed to delivering high-quality services that save you time and money. Our client-centric approach ensures that we understand your specific requirements and provide personalized solutions that drive your business forward.

Don't let financial complexities hold you back.

Contact Unison Globus today to discover how our expert CPA outsourcing services can help your business thrive.

This Blog is originally post here: https://unisonglobus.com/how-much-does-it-cost-to-hire-a-cpa/

[artisticdivasworld]

Financial planning for truckers 

Financial planning is something a lot of folks in the industry overlook, but it’s super important if you want to stay afloat and keep your wheels rolling. First, let’s talk about budgeting. It might sound like a boring topic, but think of it as your roadmap. Without a clear budget, it’s like driving without a GPS. You know your income can be pretty unpredictable, especially with fluctuating fuel…

[sporksaber]

Me staring at my spring semester course planning sheet with a class I need to take now labeled inapplicable

[webnavals]

Investing for Beginners: Where to Start Now and Build Wealth — Earning Ventures Investing For Beginners: Where To Start Now And Build Wealth

Investing for beginners: start by understanding your financial goals and risk tolerance, then explore low-cost index funds and consider utilizing a robo-advisor for guidance. Investing can be overwhelming, especially for beginners.

With so many options and strategies available, it’s important to start with a solid foundation. Before jumping into the world of investments, take the time to understand your financial goals and risk tolerance. This will help you determine the appropriate investment approach for you.

One popular starting point for beginners is investing in low-cost index funds. These funds allow you to invest in a diversified portfolio of stocks or bonds, without the need to pick individual securities. This helps reduce risk and provides broad market exposure. For those who want a more guided approach, robo-advisors can be a valuable tool. These online platforms use algorithms to build and manage a personalized investment portfolio based on your goals and risk tolerance. They offer convenience and professional guidance at a fraction of the cost of traditional financial advisors. Whether you choose index funds or a robo-advisor, the key is to start investing early and regularly. Over time, this can help you build wealth and achieve your financial goals. So, take the first step today and start investing for your future.

[my-financials]

Investing on a Budget: 10 Smart Strategies for Young Adults to Grow Their Wealth

Investing on a shoestring budget might seem like a high mountain to scale, but it’s more of a gentle hill when approached with the right strategy. Young adults, often grappling with limited funds, can still pave their path to financial growth through smart, incremental investing. Here’s how: Embrace the Power of Compounding: Think of compounding interest as a snowball rolling downhill, gathering…

[mortgagesrefinance]

The Benefits of Refinancing Your Mortgage

In the ever-evolving landscape of financial decisions, one choice that homeowners often contemplate is whether or not to refinance their mortgage. Refinancing is a strategic financial move that can have a significant impact on your long-term financial well-being. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the advantages of mortgage refinancing, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your financial goals.

Lower Interest Rates, Lower Payments

Improved Financial Stability

Refinancing your mortgage can lead to substantial savings by securing a lower interest rate. As the market fluctuates, interest rates may decrease, and refinancing allows you to capture these lower rates, potentially reducing your monthly mortgage payments. This can result in enhanced financial stability as you free up additional funds for savings, investments, or other essential expenses.

Increased Cash Flow

A lower monthly mortgage payment translates to improved cash flow, providing you with more disposable income each month. This extra cash can be used to pay off high-interest debt, invest in home improvements, or bolster your emergency fund. By strategically reallocating your funds, you can achieve both short-term and long-term financial goals.

Debt Consolidation

Streamlined Finances

Refinancing your mortgage can serve as a powerful debt consolidation tool. By combining high-interest debts such as credit cards, personal loans, or car loans into your mortgage, you can simplify your financial obligations. This consolidation not only reduces your monthly payments but also eliminates the stress of managing multiple creditors.

Lower Interest Costs

Mortgage interest rates are typically lower than those of other forms of debt. By consolidating your debts into your mortgage, you can benefit from these lower rates, ultimately reducing the overall interest costs of your debts. This strategy enables you to pay off your debts more efficiently.

Home Equity Utilization

Access to Home Equity

Refinancing provides an opportunity to tap into your home's equity. You can choose to do a cash-out refinance, where you receive a lump sum of money based on the equity you've built in your home. This cash can be used for various purposes, such as funding home renovations, paying for education, or covering unexpected medical expenses.

Increased Property Value

Investing in your home through renovations or improvements can increase its market value. This, in turn, can boost your home equity even further. A higher property value not only enhances your financial standing but also improves your long-term investment prospects.

Shorter Loan Terms

Faster Debt Elimination

Refinancing also allows you to shorten the term of your mortgage. By switching to a shorter loan term, you can pay off your mortgage faster. While this may result in slightly higher monthly payments, it can lead to substantial savings in interest over the life of the loan.

Financial Freedom

A shorter loan term can also lead to greater financial freedom in the long run. With your mortgage paid off sooner, you'll have more financial flexibility for retirement planning, travel, or pursuing other life goals without the burden of monthly mortgage payments.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mortgage refinancing offers a multitude of benefits that can significantly improve your financial outlook. From lowering interest rates and increasing cash flow to debt consolidation and leveraging home equity, refinancing provides homeowners with a powerful financial tool. By considering the advantages outlined in this article, you can make an informed decision about refinancing your mortgage and work towards a more secure financial future.

Remember, it's essential to consult with a qualified financial advisor or mortgage brokers to determine the best refinancing strategy tailored to your unique financial situation.

[corporatespies]

how TF does anyone save for retirement genuinely. I just did a little retirement calculator and the number it told me to save per month was maniacal.... another site said save 20% of your yearly income for retirement like buddy do you think I have 20% of my income to spare just laying around? 

[wonnieaura]

financial knowledge for the girlies 🤍🍓💸

Develop a budget: Creating and sticking to a budget can help you better understand your income and expenses, and learn how to prioritize your spending.

Save regularly: Saving money is crucial for achieving financial stability. You can set up automatic transfers to a savings account so you won't be tempted to spend the money.

Pay off debt: High-interest debt can hinder your financial progress. Make a plan to pay off your debts and focus on high-interest debts first.

Invest wisely: Investing can help your money grow over time. Look for low-cost index funds, which can give you broad exposure to the market at a low cost.

Understand compound interest: Compound interest is the interest you earn on interest. By investing consistently, the power of compound interest can help you build wealth over time.

Research before making big financial decisions: Before making a major decision, such as buying a house or car, research different options and weigh the costs and benefits.

Learn from your mistakes: Every failure or setback can teach you something valuable. Use these experiences to inform your future financial decisions.

Get professional advice: Seek advice from a financial advisor if you're unsure about your financial decisions. They can provide guidance on investments, retirement planning, and tax strategies.

Be aware of scams: Scammers can take advantage of financial illiteracy. Be cautious when someone offers an investment that's too good to be true.

Continuous learning: Financial knowledge is constantly changing, so stay informed by regularly reading financial news, books, and attending classes or webinars.

[aat23]

tax advisor cost

Accurate Account & Taxes provides best tax advisor cost. We are here to help. After 25 years of commitment, quality, and trust. Accurate Account & Taxes was established to better assist Kent businesses and individuals with their accounting and tax preparation needs. We've discovered that working as a team can be an effective way to help clients with a variety of needs navigate the complex world of financial services. We invite you to learn about and use our services. We believe that obtaining opinions from people with diverse backgrounds, education, and experience benefits our clients greatly. Because no single strategy works for everyone, we give each client our undivided attention, from planning to execution to follow-up. We take a proactive approach to assisting you in developing a strategy to address your financial goals and objectives in the most efficient way possible. Recognizing that everyone encounters difficulties along the way, we strive to anticipate and address these situations as they arise. We want to keep you on track toward a financially meaningful and purposeful future. Please look over our website. If you have any questions, please contact (253) 520-8886 as soon as possible. We'd love to talk with you.

[o-sachi]

Hope They Caught Us ‧₊˚ ⋅ Blue Lock Chars. (Request)

ଳ oh no, the paparazzi has revealed your relationship; what's going to happen now?ଳ characters; isagi yoichi, bachira meguru, nagi seishiro, reo mikage, michael kaiser, sae itoshi, rin itoshi, barou shoei, chigiri hyoma, shidou ryusei ଳ tags; pro player characters, gn reader, sfw

ᯓ Isagi Yoichi

Isagi wasn't really concerned about being "found out" in the first place. He mostly kept a low profile with you for your own privacy and safety.

If you're just starting out, he'd probably dodge questions about his love life. But after a couple of months, he'd gladly reveal it in a press con.

Being one of the top strikers, it became an unspoken rule in media to not be that "trashy" tabloid to mess around with Isagi's private life.

In a way, everyone respected the low profile he wanted for the two of you.

He'd probably be more open with sharing photos of the two of you once you're married. Maybe he'd even post occasional updates about your family.

ᯓ Bachira Meguru

He does the job of the paparazzi for them. Tabloids have no use in tailing him in public because he posts about you on his socials as much as he can.

Seriously. When he needs to promote an upcoming match, he'll use a picture of you wearing his jersey and slap on the caption his management asked him to.

It probably becomes a meme—how obsessed he can be with you. Oddly enough, it earns him even more fans.

When you get married... he will never shut up. Seeing his social media, you'd forget that he was a football player in the first place.

It's a different story if he had kids though. He'd be super pumped to share them and all their milestones, but he's responsible enough to know that they need to remain private for their safety.

ᯓ Nagi Seishirou

His management initially told him to keep a low profile with anyone that he dates. Being a famous footballer meant that he had to protect his reputation at all costs. Romantic relationships could be a slippery slope, so they wanted to safeguard his image as best they can.

He shrugs it off and promises that he will do that. Butttttt, not long after the two of you started dating, the paps already got to him. Suffice to say that his management was not happy.

The two of you were caught out in public getting some food. They could've argued that you were going as friends, but the way Nagi lazily wrapped his arms around your waist (force of habit) told people otherwise.

When the news blew up that he was dating someone—he shrugged it off. Again. His publicist trains him excessively to prepare for the upcoming press con, knowing that Nagi will most definitely slip up again.

The poor guy tries so hard to lie in front of the media, but it was too obvious. It was almost hilarious how he kept mixing up his answers. In the end, the management relented and allowed him to reveal your relationship without mincing words.

ᯓ Reo Mikage

Similar to Nagi's case, everyone tells him to keep the relationship a secret—his management, his parents, his financial advisors, and even a few of his friends.

It was a tougher situation for him because not only is he famous, but he's also disgustingly rich. That only posed more danger for you and especially for him.

There were plenty of close calls when the paparazzi would camp near his house and his usual haunts. But somehow... all the stories and articles get shut down quickly. Reo has his managing team (and some of his parents' connections) to thank for that.

So, people now have a slight idea that Reo might be dating someone. But that's about it. They have no idea about who the person is nor how serious the relationship is. When a photo or two goes under the radar and somehow makes its way on to the internet, people always assume it's edited or taken out of context.

The devil works hard, but Reo Mikage's management team works harder.

ᯓ Michael Kaiser

He's the type of celebrity that the paparazzi always gets ahold of. It's practically impossible for him to get away, so he gave up and accepted his fate. When he was still single—he didn't give a shit about them as long as they kept their distance and turned off the flash of their cameras.

But when you came into the picture... he became so so mean to the paparazzi. Even if they kept their distance from the two of you, he'd always throw a scarf over your head or hand you his sunglasses, so that you didn't have to deal with your face being plastered all over the internet.

He would definitely throw a middle finger or two if one of the paps tells you to smile for them or something. An article about Kaiser—with the now infamous picture of him—would be uploaded the next morning. But, honestly? Who gives a shit?

Grows to hate the paps with a burning passion. He literally can't have a calm day without them on his tail. And best believe that he'll express this disdain on every press con and interview possible.

Fans eventually come to his rescue and throw hate on every tabloid that keeps on hounding him and his precious significant other.

ᯓ Sae Itoshi

Sae is the only one safe from the prying eyes of the public. if he wants to keep you and your relationship private—then private it shall be. It's not that he's embarrassed of you, but he thinks that other people have absolutely no say in your relationship. What' between the two of you, stays there.

He rarely posts on social media. If he does, it's going to be a promotional pub for his next match or appearance. Not a single post about his personal life will be there, especially a post about you.

The paparazzi almost never catches him. Even if they do, it's always just him by himself doing mundane things. Eventually, the paps figured it was useless to track him down and decided to hound a different celebrity (his brother lol).

He secretly loves to mess with the internet by posting the most cryptic shit ever. It has everyone coming up with conspiracy theories, but none of them seem to stick (there's always gonna be that one "debunker" after all). When he randomly sees people debating and fighting on the internet about his posts—it makes him giggle a bit inside.

He'll probably only reveal bits of his personal life once he's retired. Maybe he'll tell people he was married and was with you for a long time now. For a star as big as him, the paps won't let him go even if he retires, but at that point, he could hardly care.

ᯓ Rin Itoshi

He hated the thought of having the public know about your relationship because 1) it will compromise your safety, 2) it will mean that a bunch of random extras would be talking about the two of you, and 3) his business is his alone. Rin's just an incredibly private person all around.

So smug at first because the paparazzi was exclusively going after his brother—being a huge pain in the ass. His smugness was quickly wiped away once the paps started hounding him instead. He definitely cursed his brother in his mind for "being so boring that even the tabloids got sick of him."

He would release a statement in which he tells the public to back off and that it's none of their concern if he was dating anyone. Although, it completely backfires because who mentions that out of the blue? Everyone knew he was reverse-psychology-ing them.

Of course, he was pissed about how his statement blew up in the wrong direction. You, on the other hand, found it quite amusing. To relieve his stress, you suggested to go out of the country with him for a while and enjoy a nice vacation.

As fate would have it, that was when the two of you were caught red-handed—being all over each other at a beach in Cancun. Rin was... not impressed when the pictures spread all over the internet. But you were there to cheer him up again! (He still won't give them the satisfaction of admitting to your relationship though).

ᯓ Barou Shoei

Barou's strict with himself and with you. His management team doesn't have to fret over him because they know he has it all under control. He reminds you constantly and teaches you how to be careful under the public eye. He's super sweet and considerate for that !

He asks you if your prefer the privacy or if you'd like to make your relationship public (He cares too much about what you think). If you prefer privacy, then he'd do anything and everything in his power to keep your existence under wraps. If you wanna go public, then he's making a statement tomorrow.

However, you do decide that you want people to know about your relationship; it felt more real that way. He takes note of it and does it in the flashiest way possible: inviting you down on the field to celebrate with him after a win.

The paps have an absolute field day with that moment. So many HD pictures of different angles of that celebration filled the internet for a month or so. Everyone thought it was quite cute.

You still kept a low profile after that. People knew about your relationship, but your safety was still his number one priority.

ᯓ Chigiri Hyoma

Chigiri could give two shits about the paparazzi. Let them follow if they want; it makes them look sad and pathetic shouting for his and your attention after all.

Don't get him wrong though—he's still concerned about your safety, so he does everything else in the background to make sure no one can do anything nasty to you even if your relationship is plastered all over the internet.

There wasn't any need for statement or confirmation from him. There were always paparazzi waiting for you when you go out to dinner with him. He'll still gladly hold your hand and whisper some reassurance into your ear.

HE IS THE TYPE TO RESPOND TO HATE COMMENTS ONLINE. And it's too funny. Chigiri has the best comebacks and one-liners to the haters which has fans rolling on the floor laughing. "That's why Chigiri is the goat," one netizen says.

You two eventually become a power couple that's referenced quite often in media. How cute.

ᯓ Shidou Ryusei

He was involved in an incident once wherein he calmly approached one of the paps, took the camera from him, snapped a photo of the guy right in his face, and said, "Doesn't feel good to be photographed without your permission huh?"

Safe to say that after that—the paps didn't want to do anything to him. I mean, he's already a menace on the football field (which is a regulated place, by the way), so what more if he was out in public without any restraint?

People knew about your relationship anyway. He wasn't shy about it and both of you were like YOLO—having fun over safety any day was your motto. (Thankfully, management was kind enough to make sure both of you were still safe though).

He's the type to overshare on the internet. It's to the point that sometimes you have to whack him over the head and ask him to delete a post because it revealed too much about his life.

Shidou shitposts on the internet way too often. So much so that people started calling his posts "Shidouposts" (affectionately). He also loved sharing memes about himself or about the two of you.

ε( ε ˙³˙)ɜ ｡° ⚬ ｡ likes and reblogs are appreciated

pls do not translate/copy/reupload my work on other platforms.

o-sachi © 2024

[artisticdivasworld]

Why Analyzing Financial Data is Crucial for Your Trucking Business

Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com If you’re having a tough time keeping your business on track. We get it—running a trucking company is no easy feat. There’s so much to juggle: maintenance, fuel costs, routes, driver management, and on top of that, financials. It’s overwhelming, and we know the last thing you want to think about is diving into those spreadsheets and financial reports. But let me…

[suncaptor]

Been trying to not bother anyone, but I am wondering if anyone could send donations. I can't pay rent today (even if I pay the half I will on credit) and more fees are adding on, and outside of some help I've barely been eating for a long time here. I'm just struggling to afford rising costs of living with constant new crises happening, and I haven't been able to get someone to take over my lease, so I can't just couchsurf. Not at all asking anyone to over extend or send me more if they've had, but if anyone could help I'd appreciate it.

(I have seen as many case managers and financial aid advisors as I can and am using every resource I can too! There's just not much where I am now.)

Paypal suncaptor

Revolut remsun

[sinful-mind-joyful-thoughts]

𝕿𝖜𝖎𝖘𝖙𝖊𝖉 𝕿𝖊𝖒𝖕𝖙𝖆𝖙𝖎𝖔𝖓𝖘 | 1

Read Chapter two - here [MASTERLIST]

screencaps and gifs: Pinterest

Pairing: dark!Joel Miller x Fem!reader

Warnings/tags: MDNI 18+, DEAD DOVE DO NOT EAT, BLOOD, Auctioning people, talks of BDSM, talks of virginity, talks of STD and STI tests, Dom and Sub dynamics, underage drinking (20), THIS IS A WORK OF FICTION, YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CONTENT YOU CONSUME

Summary: 20,000 dollars in student debt can lead to irrational decisions, like engaging in a questionable discussion when a friend who is knowledgeable about BDSM mentions an auction she's attending.

WC: 3.6K

A/n: the first of the new and improved version of my mister miller fic🫶🏻

For notifications follow - @sinful-mind-joyful-fics

Cold and heartless, Dr. Richards, your financial aid advisor, was a stern woman. You had expected that, considering the difficulty of having to inform hundreds of students about whether they could afford to continue their college careers or not. Last week, you discovered an unpaid dues notice from the school when you were looking through your financial reports. You had thought that all your dues were covered by a creative writing scholarship and financial aid.

Dr. Richards set your papers down and sighed, taking off her glasses and looking at you with an unexpected hint of pity. "Would you like me to be kind or blunt?" she asked, her voice steady but softened by the weight of bad news.

Your hand slapped to your forehead instinctively as dread pooled in your stomach. "Blunt," you muttered, bracing yourself.

"You're $20,000 in debt," she continued without missing a beat. "The total cost of your first year was $40,000. $20,000 was covered through financial aid and the scholarship, but if you wish to continue, the remaining $20,000 has to be paid by the start of next semester."

Shock and anger twisted inside you, making your vision blur. "Three months?!" you exclaimed, your voice rising with panic. "How am I supposed to afford that? I can barely afford anything as it is."

Dr. Richards leaned back, her eyes holding a mixture of sympathy and resignation. "I understand this is difficult, but the reality is, you need to find a solution quickly. Perhaps a private loan, more scholarships, or even a part-time job."

The office walls seemed to close in around you, the air thick with the weight of impossible choices. You stood up, feeling the urgency of time slipping through your fingers. "I'll figure something out," you said, your voice a brittle whisper of determination.

As you stepped out into the corridor, the gravity of your situation bore down on you. The campus buzzed with the usual life of students, oblivious to your internal turmoil. Every step you took felt heavier, each echoes a reminder of the $20,000 chain now dragging you down.

Night fell as you wandered the campus, lost in thought. The familiar paths seemed alien, shadows stretching long and menacing under the flickering streetlights. Once you made it back to your cramped dorm room, you opened the door and flopped onto your bed without even glancing at your roommate, Faith.

"Whoa, are you okay?" Faith asked, concern lacing her voice.

You lifted your head from the bed just enough to reply. "Remember the financial notice I got last week? Turns out I'm $20,000 in debt, and I didn't even know. Ugh, I should have read the papers more thoroughly." You sunk your head back into the thin, scratchy comforter on your bed, feeling the weight of the world pressing down on you.

Faith sat down on the edge of her bed, her eyes wide with concern. "That's... a lot. What are you going to do?"

You sighed deeply, the sound muffled by the comforter. "I have no idea. Three months to come up with twenty grand? It feels impossible."

Faith was silent for a moment, the tension in the room thickening. Finally, she spoke, her voice a mix of determination and desperation. "We'll figure something out. There has to be a way."

You nodded weakly, and Faith gently moved your shoulders to get you to sit up. She sat next to you and nudged you playfully. "Maybe a sugar daddy? You're a hot 20-year-old with a banging body," Faith joked, her mischievous grin breaking through the tension.

You managed a small smile, though part of you wondered if she was actually being serious. Faith was always open about her sex life, unlike you. You were a virgin, but the thought of a sugar daddy did sound appealing in your desperate situation.

"Yeah, right," you replied with a chuckle, though the idea lingered in your mind longer than it should have. Faith's laughter filled the room, a momentary reprieve from the oppressive worry.

Faith stood up abruptly before walking to her laptop and bringing it over to you. "A Twilight marathon isn't going to fix this," she cut you off, her tone serious, as she settled beside you.

"I know, I know... but," she hesitated, her expression grave, "well, I might have a solution." With a look of persuasion, she showed you her laptop screen, displaying a website named 'Twisted Temptations.'

"Your BDSM club?" you blurted out, taken aback.

"Okay, okay, listen," Faith hurried to explain, sensing your shock and disapproval. "We're doing this auction... You get 10% of whatever they bid for you."

You stood there, frozen in disbelief, waiting for Faith to continue. "How do you think I paid for college and..." she paused, choosing her words carefully, "most don't even want sex. You should at least look at the application."

You shook your head, doubt clouding your thoughts. "I don't know, Faith. This is so out of my comfort zone."

Faith moved closer, her expression softening with concern and determination. "Listen, I wouldn't suggest this if I didn't think it was safe. The club is strict about boundaries. You set the limits, and they are respected. Plus, I'll be there to guide you through everything."

You glanced at the laptop screen, the application form open and waiting. The prospect seemed overwhelming, yet there was a glimmer of hope—an unconventional solution to your daunting financial problems.

Faith sensed your hesitation and continued, "I know it's a big step, but think about the benefits. You need the money, and this way, you control what happens. You set your limits and preferences, and everything is mutually agreed upon with your partner. Trust me, you'll be safe."

You took a deep breath, considering her words. "But what if something goes wrong?"

Faith smiled reassuringly. "It won't. The club has strict rules and procedures to protect everyone involved. I'll help you with everything—filling out the application, setting your boundaries, and making sure you're comfortable. You won't be alone in this."

The weight of your financial troubles pressed down on you, and Faith's unwavering support felt like a lifeline. You sighed and sank onto the bed next to her. "Alright, I'll do it, but you have to help me. I don't want something to go wrong."

Faith's eyes lit up with excitement. "It won't," she assured you confidently. "Let's get started." She quickly filled in your name, age, and other essential details, then looked at you with a reassuring smile. "Okay, now we need to talk about your preferences and limits. This is really important."

You nodded, feeling a mix of apprehension and curiosity. "What kind of preferences?"

Faith glanced at the screen, scrolling down to the next section. "Let's start with the basics. Are there any absolute no-go areas for you? Things you absolutely won't do?"

You bit your lip, feeling a flutter of nerves. "Well, I'm a virgin, but I'm ready to...you know, not be. I just don't want to do anything I'm not comfortable with."

Faith nodded, her expression serious but supportive. "That's totally okay. You can specify that you're new and what your limits are. Many people in the club respect that and will help you explore at your own pace."

She typed as she spoke, checking off boxes and filling in fields. "What about things like light bondage, sensory play, or role-playing? Have you ever thought about those?"

You blushed slightly, feeling a mix of excitement and fear. "I've never tried any of it, but I guess I could be open to light stuff. Nothing too intense to start."

Faith smiled encouragingly. "Perfect. We'll start with light bondage and sensory play. You can always update your preferences later as you get more comfortable."

She continued filling out the form, asking about your comfort levels with different activities, safe words, and any medical conditions or allergies. You answered as best as you could, relying on Faith's guidance and the snippets of information she'd shared with you over the years.

"Remember," Faith added, "most of what you like and don't like is decided mutually between the dom and sub. Communication is key. You'll discuss your limits and preferences with your partner beforehand, and you can always say no if something doesn't feel right."

Faith noted your availability and reviewed the application one last time. "Alright, I think we're all set. Ready to submit?"

You took a deep breath, nerves, and excitement swirling within you. "Ready."

Faith clicked the submit button, and the screen flashed a confirmation message. She turned to you with a grin. "Welcome to Twisted Temptations. You're going to be great."

As you sat there, a mix of relief and apprehension settling over you, Faith squeezed your hand. "Remember, you're in control. This is about exploring your boundaries and discovering what you're comfortable with. And I'll be here every step of the way."

You nodded, and Faith smiled. “The auction will be held next week. You’ll need to get an STD and STI test done, and you desperately need to get something sexy.”

You gasped at Faith. “I own sexy clothes?”

Faith giggled and walked over to the closet. "Well, maybe not yet, but that's what I'm here for."

She flung open the closet doors and began rifling through your clothes. After a moment, she pulled out a baggy hoodie and a pair of sweatpants, holding them up with a look of mock horror. “Unless you plan on seducing someone with the allure of ‘Netflix and no chill,’ we need to do some shopping.”

You couldn’t help but laugh. “Okay, okay, point taken. But where am I supposed to find something sexy?”

Faith’s eyes sparkled with mischief. “Leave that to me. We’ll hit up the mall tomorrow, and by the time we’re done, you’ll have an outfit that’ll make jaws drop.”

You felt a mixture of excitement and dread. “Fine, but no leather. And nothing with feathers. Or sequins. Or—”

“Relax,” Faith interrupted, still laughing. “I know just the thing. You’ll be sexy, not sparkly.”

As Faith closed the closet doors with a flourish, she turned back to you, her expression turning serious. “But seriously, the tests are important. We need to make sure you’re safe and everything is in order.”

You nodded, the gravity of the situation sinking in again. “I’ll make an appointment first thing tomorrow.”

Faith grinned and flopped down on the bed beside you. “Great. Now, let’s watch a terrible rom-com to celebrate your big decision. It’ll be our last bit of normalcy before you become a sex goddess.”

You rolled your eyes but couldn’t help but smile.

Faith and you decided to Uber to the auction. The city lights blurred past the window as you fidgeted with the hem of your newly purchased dress. Faith noticed your nerves and squeezed your hand reassuringly.

“Alright,” she said, her tone both calming and excited, “let me walk you through what’s going to happen tonight.”

You nodded, trying to focus on her words instead of the churning anxiety in your stomach.

“When we arrive at the venue, we'll check in at the front desk. They'll hand you your papers and auction number,” Faith explained. “Then, we can mingle and meet some of the other participants. It's like a real auction party, so don't be shy about striking up conversations.”

You took a deep breath, feeling slightly reassured. “And when does the bidding start?”

Faith grinned. “Bidding starts at 10 PM sharp. That's when the real excitement begins.

As the Uber came to a stop outside the venue, I looked out the window at the unremarkable building that awaited me. Faith led the way, exuding confidence as she stepped onto the sidewalk.

Stepping into the venue, anticipation swirled around me like a gentle breeze, mingling with the soft melodies of background music. The interior whispered of understated elegance, with dim lighting casting enchanting shadows across the polished floors and plush furnishings. Faith guided you towards the check-in desk, where attendants bustled about with papers and pins. You exchanged a nervous glance, excitement bubbling beneath the surface as you approached the desk.

“Welcome,” greeted the attendant with a warm smile, “may I have your names, please?”

You and Faith exchanged introductions before the attendant handed you each a set of papers and pins to attach to your dresses. With a playful grin, Faith nudged you and held up her pin, wiggling it teasingly.

“Alright, partner in crime,” she said, her eyes twinkling with mischief, “let’s get these on and make sure we’re looking sharp for the auction.”

You chuckled, feeling a surge of affection for your friend as you both leaned in to help each other attach the pins to your dresses. 

With your pins securely fastened, you and Faith made your way toward the main ballroom. The air seemed to buzz with an undercurrent of excitement and anticipation. As you approached the entrance, the grandeur of the room came into view.

The ballroom was a striking blend of opulence and decadence. Crystal chandeliers cast a warm, golden glow over the space, illuminating velvet drapes in deep, sensual hues that lined the walls. The polished marble floors reflected the ambient light, creating an almost surreal atmosphere. Guests mingled in clusters, their laughter and hushed conversations weaving a tapestry of sound that filled the room.

At one end of the ballroom stood a grand stage, draped in rich, crimson fabric and adorned with luxurious golden trim. The stage was set for the auction, with a sleek podium at the center and rows of plush chairs arranged in front, ready for the evening’s main event.

As you stepped further inside, the scene grew more intense. The guests were an eclectic mix, their attire ranging from sophisticated evening wear to daring, barely-there outfits that left little to the imagination. Leather, lace, and latex dominated the fashion choices, with some attendees adorned in intricate harnesses and collars, their outfits hinting at the BDSM theme of the event.

Faith squeezed your hand one last time before she was swept away by a familiar face, her confident stride never faltering. You stood there for a moment, feeling a sudden pang of anxiety as the crowd seemed to close in around you. The noise, the lights, the sheer number of people—it was all too much at once.

Your heart raced as you tried to navigate through the sea of faces, each one strange and intimidating. The grandeur of the ballroom that had seemed so captivating just moments ago now felt overwhelming. You took a deep breath, attempting to steady yourself, but the sensation of being out of your depth only intensified.

The guests were like nothing you had ever seen before. A man in an immaculate tuxedo strolled by, a jeweled mask obscuring his eyes, while a woman in a full-body latex suit and stiletto heels sauntered past, her movements deliberate and commanding. A couple nearby caught your eye: the woman wore a sheer, flowing gown, her partner trailing behind her on a leash, wearing nothing but leather shorts and a collar.

In one corner, a group of people had gathered around a figure suspended in a rope harness, their intricate knots both artistic and functional. Soft moans and murmurs of appreciation floated through the air as the person twisted slowly, lost in the sensations the ropes provided. Another attendee, dressed in a sharp, tailored suit, held a riding crop, playfully tapping it against their thigh as they chatted with a scantily clad submissive whose eyes never left the ground.

Guests lounged on plush sofas, some openly engaging in power play dynamics. A woman in a sleek corset held a leash attached to a submissive kneeling beside her, while another couple whispered intimately, their hands exploring each other's bodies with practiced ease. The atmosphere was charged with an erotic energy, a palpable sense of anticipation for what the night would bring.

As you continued to weave through the crowd, searching for a familiar face or a quiet corner, the overwhelming nature of the evening began to settle heavily on your shoulders. The mix of luxury and raw sexuality, the boldness of the guests, and the anticipation of what was to come all blended into a dizzying mix that left you feeling adrift.

In that moment, you longed for Faith's reassuring presence, her confident guidance. But she was somewhere amidst the throng, leaving you to navigate this new and intimidating world on your own. You felt a prickling sense of vulnerability, the realization that you were truly stepping into uncharted territory sinking in as you tried to steady your breath and find your footing in the extravagant chaos surrounding you.

So, like every college student in a social bind, you made a beeline for the bar. "Shit," you muttered, realizing you had left both your fake and real ID back in the dorm. Trying to muster some confidence, you approached the bar, hoping your outfit might be convincing enough. You sidled up next to a tall man with salt-and-pepper hair, dressed impeccably in a well-tailored suit. You could catch the faint scent of pine and campfire from his cologne.

Putting on your best flirty face, you addressed the bartender. He was the complete opposite of the man beside you—average height, slightly taller than you, skinny, tattooed, and wearing an ill-fitting button-up uniform top. His head was shaved clean. "One shot of Tito's, please," you said, playing with your hair in an attempt to seem older and more sophisticated.

The bartender chuckled. "ID, please?"

You leaned forward, arms together to emphasize your cleavage. "ID, really?" you said, trying to be as seductive as possible.

The bartender looked tempted but quickly shook his head. "No ID, no alcohol," he said firmly, turning away.

You groaned in frustration, which caught the attention of the man next to you. He smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. He was older, that was clear, but he looked good. His stubble was neatly trimmed, his curly hair slicked back in a way that seemed both effortless and intentional, and his eyes were large and expressive.

"So, no ID?" he asked, his voice warm and slightly amused.

You smiled back. "No, but a girl can try."

He set down his glass of whiskey, the amber liquid catching the light. "Well, how old are you then?"

"Twenty," you admitted, locking eyes with him.

Before you could continue the conversation, Faith appeared, grabbing your arm and pulling you away from the bar. "What were you doing talking to Joel Miller?" she asked, her voice a mix of shock and concern.

You glanced back, watching Joel as he turned back to his drink. "Just chatting. Why?"

Faith handed you a pamphlet and opened it to a specific page. "Page four," she instructed.

As you skimmed the page, she continued, "Joel is... intense. He's someone to shy away from until you're more experienced. Trust me on this."

Your eyes widened as you read the details. "Intense" was an understatement. "So, who's the safe bet?" you asked, feeling a bit overwhelmed.

Faith's face softened. "His brother, Tommy. He's more laid-back and a better choice for someone starting. You'll find him much easier to talk to."

You sighed, glancing back toward the bar. "Guess I dodged a bullet, huh?"

Faith smiled. "Yeah, you did. Now, let's find Tommy and get you introduced. He's around here somewhere."

Joel suddenly appeared as you and Faith navigated through the crowd, stopping you both dead in your tracks. "Tito's," he said, handing you a glass with a wry smile. He glanced at the number pinned to your dress before walking away, leaving you stunned.

"What was that about?" Faith immediately questioned, her eyes wide with surprise.

Before you could respond, a voice boomed from the auction podium. "May all the products please make their way backstage."

Faith turned to you, her expression shifting from curiosity to urgency. "We'll talk about this later. Right now, we need to get backstage."

Your heart pounded as you nodded, clutching the glass of Tito's Joel had given you. You downed it in one gulp, hoping it would calm your nerves, then handed the empty glass back to Faith. She gave your hand a reassuring squeeze. "You'll be fine. Just remember what we talked about. You're in control."

With a deep breath, you joined the other "products" making their way to the designated area. The backstage was a flurry of activity, with organizers checking names and numbers, and participants adjusting their outfits one last time. The air was thick with anticipation and a hint of perfume mingled with the scent of leather.

An organizer approached you, checking your number against his list. "You're number 3, correct?" he asked.

"Yes," you replied, your voice barely audible over the din of conversation and last-minute preparations.

"Great. Just wait here until you're called," he instructed, pointing to a row of chairs along the wall.

You sat down, your mind racing. Faith's words echoed in your head: "You're in control. You decide your limits." The reality of what you were about to do began to sink in, but you steeled yourself, determined to see it through.

As you waited, you couldn't help but think about Joel. His unexpected gesture with the Tito's, the way he had looked at you—something about him intrigued and unnerved you. But Faith's warning was clear: he was intense, someone to be cautious around. Your thoughts were interrupted by a tap on your shoulder.

"Number 3, you're up next," the organizer said.

You stood up, smoothed out your dress, and took a deep breath. As you stepped towards the stage, the curtain drew back slightly, giving you a tantalizing glimpse of the auction room. The ambient lighting cast a soft glow, illuminating the expectant faces of the bidders, their anticipation palpable in the air.

Stepping into the spotlight, you felt a surge of adrenaline coursing through your veins. The auctioneer's voice echoed in the room, commanding attention as he announced, "And now, presenting number 3, starting bid at $500."

[mostlysignssomeportents]

Biden wants to ban ripoff “financial advisors”

I'll be at the Studio City branch of the LA Public Library on Monday, November 13 at 1830hPT to launch my new novel, The Lost Cause. There'll be a reading, a talk, a surprise guest (!!) and a signing, with books on sale. Tell your friends! Come on down!

Once, American workers had "defined benefits pensions," where their employers promised to pay them a certain amount every year from their retirement to their death. Jimmy Carter swapped that out for 401(k)s, "market" pensions where you have to guess which stocks will be valuable or starve in your old age:

https://pluralistic.net/2020/07/25/derechos-humanos/#are-there-no-poorhouses

The initial 401(k) rollout had all kinds of pot-sweeteners that made them seem like a good deal, like heavy employer matching that doubled or even tripled the value of every dollar you put into the market for your retirement. But over the years, as Reaganomics took hold and workers' power ebbed away, all these goodies were clawed back. In the end, the market-based pension makes you the sucker at the poker table, flushing your savings into a rigged casino that is firmly tilted in favor of finance barons and other eminently guillotineable plutocrats.

Neoliberalism is many things, but most of all it is a cult of individualism. The fact that three generations of workers are nows facing down retirement without pensions that will provide them with secure housing and food – let alone money to see the odd movie, buy birthday gifts for their grandkids, or enjoy a meal out now and then – is framed as millions of individual failures, not a systemic one.

In other words, if you are facing food insecurity and homelessness after a lifetime of hard work, it's because you saved wrong. Perhaps you didn't save enough (through a 40-year run of wage stagnation and skyrocketing housing, health and education costs). Or perhaps you saved wrong, making the wrong bets on the stock market. If you can't afford to run your air conditioner during a heat dome, that's on you: you should have been better at stocks.

Apologists for this system will say that you don't have to be good at stocks – you just have to pay an Independent Financial Advisor to pick the stocks for you and you'll be fine. But IFAs don't work for free! What if you can't afford one?

Enter "predatory inclusion" – the practice of offering scammy, overpriced and substandard products to poor people and declaring it to be a good deed, because otherwise, those poor people would have to do without. The crypto bubble relied heavily on this: think of Spike Lee and others shilling for pump-and-dump scams as a way of "building Black wealth":

https://www.nytimes.com/2021/07/07/business/media/cryptocurrency-seeks-the-spotlight-with-spike-lees-help.html

More recently, Intuit and other scammy tax-prep services have argued against the IRS's plan to offer free tax preparation as bad for Black and brown people, because it will deny them the chance to be deceived and ripped off with TurboTax:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/09/27/predatory-inclusion/#equal-opportunity-scammers

Back in 2018, Trump won the predatory inclusion Olympics, when his Department of Labor let the Fifth Circuit abolish the "Fiduciary Rule" for Independent Financial Advisors:

https://www.investopedia.com/updates/dol-fiduciary-rule/

What was the Fiduciary Rule? It said that your IFN had to put your interests ahead of their own. Like, if there were two different funds you could bet on, and one would pay your IFN a big commission, while the other would be a better bet for you, the IFN couldn't put your retirement savings into the fund that offered them a bribe.

When Trump killed the Fiduciary Rule, he proclaimed it a victory for poor people, especially Black and brown people. After all, if IFNs weren't allowed to accept bribes for giving you bad financial advice, then they would have to make up the difference by charging you for good advice. If you couldn't afford that advice, well, you'd have to make bad retirement investments on your own, without the benefit of their sleazy self-dealing.

The Biden Administration wants to change that. Biden's Acting Labor Secretary is Julie Su, and she's very good at her job. Last spring, she forced west coast dockworkers' bosses to cough up the contract they'd stalled on for a year, with 8-10% raises for every worker, owed retroactively:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/06/16/that-boy-aint-right/#dinos-rinos-and-dunnos

Su has proposed a way to reinstate the Fiduciary Rule, as part of the Biden Administration's war on junk fees, estimating that this will increase retirees' net savings by 20%:

https://prospect.org/labor/2023-11-07-julie-su-labor-retirement-savers/

The new rule will force advisors who cheat their clients to pay restitution, and will require them to deliver all their advice in writing so that this cheating can be detected and punished.

The industry is furious, of course. They claim that "The Market (TM)" will solve this: if you get bad retirement savings advice and end up homeless and starving, then you will choose a different advisor in your next life, after you are reincarnated (I guess?).

And of course, they're also claiming that forcing IFNs to stop cheating their clients will deny poor people access to expert (bad) advice. As the Financial Services Institute's Dale Brown says, this will have a "negative impact on Main Street Americans’ access to financial advice":

https://www.fa-mag.com/news/legal-challenge-predicted-for-new-dol-fiduciary-proposal-75257.html

Here's that rule – read it for yourself, then submit a comment expressing your views on it. The government wants to hear from you, and administrative law requires them to act on the comments they receive:

https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2023/11/03/2023-23782/proposed-amendment-to-prohibited-transaction-exemptions-75-1-77-4-80-83-83-1-and-86-128

Su is part of a wave of progressive, technically skilled regulators in the Biden administration that resulted from a horse-trading exercise called the Unity Task Force, which divvied up access to top appointments among the progressive wing and the finance wing of the Democratic Party. The progressive appointments are nothing short of incredible – the most competent and principled agency leaders America has seen in half a century:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/10/23/getting-stuff-done/#praxis

But then there's the finance wing's appointments, like Judge Jacqueline Scott Corley, who ruled against Lina Khan's attempt to block the rotten Microsoft/Activision merger (don't worry, Khan's appealing):

https://pluralistic.net/2023/07/14/making-good-trouble/#the-peoples-champion

Perhaps the worst, though, is Biden's Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo, a private equity ghoul who did a stint for the notorious wreckers Bain Capital before founding her own firm. Raimondo has stuffed her department full of Goldman Sachs alums, and has sidelined labor and civil society groups as she sets out to administer everything from the CHIPS Act to regulating ChatGPT.

As Henry Burke writes for the Revolving Door Project and The American Prospect, Raimondo's history as a corporate raider, her deference to the finance sector, and she and her husband's conflicts of interest from their massive stakes in companies she's regulating all serve to undermine Biden's agenda:

https://prospect.org/economy/2023-11-08-commerce-secretary-gina-raimondo-undercutting-bidenomics/

When the administration inevitably complains that its popular economic programs aren’t breaking through the media coverage, they’ll have no one to blame but themselves.

The Unity Task Force gave us generationally important policymakers, but ultimately, it's a classic "pizzaburger." If half your family wants pizza, and the other half wants burgers, and you serve them something halfway in between that makes none of them happy, you haven't made a wise compromise – you've just made an inedible mess:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/06/17/pizzaburgers/

If you'd like an essay-formatted version of this post to read or share, here's a link to it on pluralistic.net, my surveillance-free, ad-free, tracker-free blog:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/11/08/fiduciaries/#but-muh-freedumbs