In the latest episode of the Ask Ralph show, host Ralph Estep, Jr. discusses financial New Year's resolutions for 2024. According to a study from WalletHub, almost half of all Americans plan to make finance-related resolutions in the coming year – a significant increase from last year. However, many individuals…
In this episode of the Ask Ralph show, host Ralph Estep, Jr. discusses the retirement anti-bucket list – 10 experiences retirees don't want to encounter. He starts by addressing the misconception that one must work until a specific age or accumulate a certain amount of savings before retiring. With proper…
Today, we're discussing how to save money on your next car purchase. Whether you're in the market for a new or used vehicle, these tips will help you get the best deal possible. LISTEN NOW Please share our Podcast will all your friends and family! Submit your questions or ideas…
Today, we're discussing common estate planning mistakes that you should avoid at all costs. Did you know that two out of three Americans don't have any estate planning documents? That's according to Caring.com’s 2023 Wills and Estate Planning survey. LISTEN NOW Please share our Podcast will all your friends and…
Join Ralph Estep, Jr. as he announces IRS updates regarding automatic penalty relief for taxpayers who had balances due in 2020-2021 but did not receive notices, covering eligibility criteria, ensuring address updated to receive refunds, and options if unable to fully pay like payment plans and offers in compromise. Other…
Are you considering starting a small business? Join Ralph Estep, Jr. as he interviews Amanda Nauman of Zenliven Wellness. Together, they delve into Amanda's journey as a massage therapist and wellness business owner, shedding light on the challenges she encountered when transitioning from being an employee to running her own…
Ralph Estep, Jr. discusses the pros and cons of emergency withdrawals from 401(k) plans. He highlights that while hardship withdrawals provide immediate funds during crises without repayment requirements, they can deplete retirement savings and incur taxes and penalties. Additionally, emergency withdrawals often lead to an increase in credit card debt…
Ralph Estep, Jr. discusses the steps for withdrawing an Employee Retention Credit (ERC) claim in today's episode of the Ask Ralph show. He emphasizes the importance of reviewing eligibility criteria, gathering relevant documentation, determining the reason for withdrawal or amendment, and seeking guidance from a qualified tax professional. Ralph advises…
Ralph Estep, Jr. discusses the best tax breaks for seniors in today's episode of the Ask Ralph show. He highlights tax-saving opportunities such as the extra standard deduction for seniors over 65, spousal IRA contributions, qualified charitable distributions (QCDs), and the Medicare premium deduction. Ralph also suggests exploring state-specific senior…
In this episode of the Ask Ralph show, host Ralph Estep, Jr. discusses the important topic of self-employment tax. He explains that self-employment tax is what individuals who work for themselves must pay on their income, including both employer and employee portions of Social Security and Medicare taxes. Ralph provides…
Ralph Estep, Jr. discusses IRS related identity theft in today's episode of the Ask Ralph show. He emphasizes the importance of responding promptly if the IRS contacts you regarding suspected identity theft and provides steps to take, including contacting the IRS directly and completing Form 14039 - Identity Theft Affidavit.…
Looking for a mortgage? Looking for the best rates? Join Ralph Estep, Jr., as he interviews mortgage expert Jason Bockniak. A great discussion about the mortgage market and the overall economy. Jason dives deep into historical trends and points out some concerning signs he sees in overall economic trends and…
It's a tough choice - When should I take my social security? Let Ralph Estep, Jr., share with you some concrete ideas about the right age to select to take your benefits and the potential pitfalls of making the wrong decision for your specific situation. LISTEN NOW Please share our…
No more taxes on Social Security! Join Ralph Estep, Jr., as he explores the lawsuit which could significantly disrupt the US tax system. As we eagerly await a US Supreme Court decision, listen as Ralph explores the Moore case and how it may impact your taxes and entire US tax…
Have you ruined your credit score? Many of us have faced the issue of a low credit score that has impacted our ability to borrow, but don't be discouraged. Join Ralph Estep, Jr., and he explains how credit scores are determined, but more importantly how to fix your credit score.…
Money advice that works, but most people don't want to hear because it takes work to turn these ideas into action. Join Ralph Estep, Jr., as he highlights the four pieces of money advice which will absolutely transform your financial present and provide for a bright financial future. LISTEN NOW…
Don't make the costly mistake of characterizing someone as an independent contractor when they are really an employee. Ralph Estep, Jr., explores the details related to the process of determining the correct status of workers. Avoid significant penalties and sanctions by listening to this vital podcast. LISTEN NOW Please share…
If you are self-employed or a contract worker you need to listen to today's podcast where Ralph Estep, Jr., explores important tax tips to improve your tax situation. From accurate record keeping to entity considerations, Ralph dives into great ideas for significant tax savings. LISTEN NOW Please share our Podcast…
Concrete tax tips and valuable discussion for those working as barbers and in the cosmetology industry. From accounting for tips to using cash apps, Ralph Estep, Jr., dives into beneficial tax assistance strategies. LISTEN NOW Please share our Podcast will all your friends and family! Submit your questions or ideas…
Now is the time to find a new Accountant if you are looking to make a change. As we make our New Year's resolutions - now is a great time to resolve to get your books in order. Ralph Estep, Jr., explores why to select a new accountant and what…
People tend to panic when they owe the IRS, but Ralph Estep, Jr., provides the best way to reduce the stress and the remove the fear of the process. It's not something to ignore or put-off and there are steps which everyone should take when they find themselves owing the…
Payroll is may be a daunting task and if you make mistakes there are significant penalties for not handling payroll correctly. Ralph Estep, Jr., explores why selecting an accountant to handle payroll is so important and explores some of the problems created when errors are made in payroll processing. Submit…
Join Ralph Estep, Jr., on today's Ask Ralph Show as he demystifyies business valuations. Ralph explores what is meant by a business valuation, why they are important and how the process works.
Join Ralph Estep, Jr., on today's show as Ralph explores the best year-end tasks to perform when using QuickBooks online to ensure you are ready for tax preparation. Ralph shares specific actions that all businesses should take at year-end.