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Videos

Dec. 21, 2024

Have You Considered Practice Skills-Based Giving?

Generosity doesn’t always mean giving money. If you're skilled in a certain area, like budgeting or home repairs, offer your expertise to someone in need. Whether it's helping a single parent with repairs or guiding someone through their finances, your time and skills can be just as valuable as financial…

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Dec. 21, 2024

Have You Started Your Generosity Fund?

Building a generosity fund doesn’t require big sacrifices—just creative thinking! I started by buying generic brands and using coupons, then putting the difference into a separate account dedicated to giving. It’s not about the amount; it’s about cultivating a generous heart. #GenerosityFund #CreativeGiving #CultivatingGenerosity #SmallActsBigImpact

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Dec. 21, 2024

Are You Ready to Multiply Your Generosity?

Partnering with others can amplify your generosity. At my church, we started a sharing economy where people exchange services, helping each other save and grow together. In tough times, remember: God isn't asking us to give what we don't have but to trust His promises. #CommunityGiving #GenerosityInAction #FaithAndFinances #SharingEconomy #GodsPromises

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Dec. 21, 2024

How do I navigate inflation while maintaining generosity?

Struggling to stay generous during tough financial times? In this episode of the Ask Ralph Show, Ralph Estep Jr. tackles the challenge of giving amid inflation. He shares Carlene’s heartfelt story about rising costs affecting her charitable efforts and offers encouragement through Malachi 3:10-12. Ralph recounts how Sal, a business…

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Dec. 20, 2024

How do I handle auto insurance if my kids are away at school?

Worried about managing auto insurance costs while your kids are in college? In this episode of The Ask Ralph Show, Ralph Estep Jr. answers the question: How Do I Handle Auto Insurance If My Kids Are Away at School? Ralph shares strategies to save on premiums while ensuring proper coverage…

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Dec. 20, 2024

Are You Overpaying for Insurance?

Don’t let your insurance be a “set it and forget it” expense! Take the time to shop around for better rates while ensuring you maintain adequate coverage. Comparing multiple carriers could save you money without sacrificing protection. #InsuranceSavings #SmartShopping #FinancialTips

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Dec. 20, 2024

Feeling Alone in Your Financial Struggles?

You don’t have to face mounting debt or financial frustration alone. We can build a path to freedom that aligns with our faith and values. Let’s reclaim your dreams and restore balance in your finances. #FinancialFreedom #ChristianValues #DebtHelp

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Dec. 20, 2024

Should You Get a New Credit Card?

Keeping your balance below 30% of your credit limit is key to maintaining a healthy credit score. Adding a new credit card could help reduce your credit utilization, especially if you frequently charge essentials like groceries and gas. Just be mindful of inquiries and use it wisely! #CreditTips #FinancialHealth #CreditCardManagement

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Dec. 19, 2024

Why should I designate a trust as a retirement account beneficiary?

In this episode of the Ask Ralph Show, Ralph Estep Jr. tackles the critical topic of naming a trust as a retirement account beneficiary. Drawing from personal experience, Ralph explains the benefits of trusts, including strategic distribution, tax efficiency, privacy, and avoiding probate. He highlights biblical wisdom from Proverbs 13:22,…

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Dec. 19, 2024

Why Regularly Reviewing Your Trust is Crucial

A well-designed trust offers flexibility, allowing you to review and adjust it as life changes. As your children grow, marry, or have their own children, the needs and circumstances around your legacy will evolve. Stay proactive and ensure your estate plan reflects your family's journey and financial goals. #EstatePlanning #FamilyLegacy…

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Dec. 19, 2024

The Importance of Conducting a Comprehensive Asset Inventory

One of the key benefits of setting up a trust is the complete inventory of your assets. From properties and investments to retirement accounts and life insurance, making sure everything is accounted for helps ensure that nothing falls through the cracks. This thorough approach provides peace of mind that your…

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Dec. 19, 2024

Are You Building a Legacy with Purpose?

Align your legacy with your values. Integrating donor-advised funds or charitable remainder trusts into your estate plan allows you to support causes close to your heart while providing tax benefits and income streams for your beneficiaries. Make your legacy a lasting testimony of faith and purpose. #LegacyPlanning #CharitableGiving #PurposeDrivenLife

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Dec. 18, 2024

What are some new tax issues facing us in 2025?

In this episode of the Ask Ralph Show, Ralph Estep Jr. addresses the major tax changes coming in 2025, which have many, including his friend David, worried about their financial future. Ralph breaks down key shifts like the expiration of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act provisions, new tax brackets, and…

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Dec. 18, 2024

What Will the Expiration of 2025 Tax Provisions Mean for You?

With key tax provisions set to expire in 2025, the future of tax rates and changes could get complicated. Extensions may require reconciliation, making them temporary. Understanding these nuances can help you prepare for future tax adjustments. #TaxPlanning #FinancialStrategy #TaxChanges2025

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Dec. 18, 2024

What Could Republican Control Mean for Small Businesses?

Potential Republican leadership may bring extensions of current tax rates and new incentives for small businesses. A focus on fostering investment in small businesses could drive growth and opportunity. Let’s stay informed and prepare for what might come. #SmallBusiness #TaxPolicy #EconomicGrowth

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Dec. 18, 2024

Are You Using Tax-Efficient Investment Strategies?

Maximize your IRA, 401(k), and HSA contributions now while tax rates are lower. Consider Roth conversions and review your portfolio for tax efficiency. Municipal bonds can also offer tax-free income. Smart planning today can save you tomorrow! #TaxEfficiency #InvestSmart #FinancialPlanning

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Dec. 17, 2024

Are You Over-Monitoring Your Credit?

Streamline your credit monitoring with a simple, healthy schedule. Use one reliable service, check it monthly, and document trends in a spreadsheet. No need for constant app alerts—focus on the big picture, not daily fluctuations. #CreditMonitoring #FinancialHealth #SimplifyYourFinances

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Dec. 17, 2024

Why do people obsess over a 800 credit score when this score is just as good?

In this episode of the Ask Ralph Show, Ralph Estep Jr. responds to Jennifer’s emotional struggle with her 765 credit score and her obsession with reaching 800. He explains why fixating on perfect numbers can block financial progress and spiritual blessings. Drawing from his experience as a credit union executive,…

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Dec. 17, 2024

Are You Chasing the Perfect Credit Score?

Your credit score is just one part of your financial story, not the whole message. God calls us to be wise stewards, not perfectionists. Focus on the bigger picture—faithful resource management over flawless numbers. #FaithAndFinances #Stewardship #FinancialWisdom

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Dec. 17, 2024

What Are the 3 C's of Lending?

Regarding lending decisions, it’s all about Character, Capacity, and Collateral—the true secret sauce. While credit scores factor in, these pillars focus on trustworthiness, ability to repay, and asset value. #LendingTips #FinancialInsights #SecretSauce

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Dec. 17, 2024

Ask Ralph Live for December 17, 2024

Can a Christian parent cut corners on car insurance to make ends meet? When Stacy’s college costs doubled, she faced an impossible choice between her budget and her children's safety. Tonight, we'll tackle this mother's heart-wrenching dilemma that many of you are facing right now. Plus: "My church says debt…

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Dec. 16, 2024

Is Your Computer Slowing You Down?

Don’t ignore sluggish performance—it might be more than a restart issue. If your machine keeps lagging, it’s time to investigate before it worsens. #TechTips #SlowPerformance #StayProductive

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Dec. 16, 2024

Are You Prepared for a Cyber Emergency?

Monitoring your accounts daily is key, but don’t stop there. Set up a separate emergency fund specifically for cyber incidents—because being prepared can make all the difference for your business or personal finances. #CyberSecurity #EmergencyFund #BePrepared

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Dec. 16, 2024

Is Your Network Slowing Down?

Persistent network slowdowns might not just be heavy traffic—they could indicate a bigger issue. Don’t ignore unusual delays. Investigate and report to stay ahead of potential problems! #NetworkPerformance #CyberSecurity #ITSupport

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