Home Blog

Should You Consider a Loan to Pay Off Credit Cards?

0

If you are drowning in credit card debt, it may be worth considering a loan to help alleviate your financial burden. Taking on more debt may seem counterintuitive, but a well-managed loan is a strategic move to pay off your credit cards and regain control of your finances. In this article, we will explore the benefits and drawbacks of using a loan to pay off credit cards, the different types of loans available, and when it may be the right time to consider this option.
Pros and Cons of Using a Loan for Credit Card Debt

Before committing to a credit card payoff loan, weighing the pros and cons is important to determine if it is the right solution for you. Here are some key advantages and disadvantages to consider:
Pros:

Potential for lower interest rates compared to credit cards
Consolidation of multiple credit card balances into a single payment
Opportunity to improve credit score with responsible repayment
Predictable, fixed repayment terms
Potential savings on interest charges

Cons:

Need to qualify for a loan based on creditworthiness
Possible origination fees or other loan-related costs
Could potentially increase overall debt if not managed responsibly
It may require collateral or a cosigner, depending on the type
Could impact credit score temporarily during the application process

When considering this financial solution, shopping around for the best terms and interest rates is essential. Understanding the pros and cons will help you make an informed decision about whether using a loan to pay off credit cards is the right choice for your financial circumstances. Different lenders offer varying rates, so comparing options can save you money in the long run. Additionally, some lenders may charge origination fees or prepayment penalties, so be sure to read the fine print before committing to this financial solution.
When to Consider Loans to Pay Off Credit Card Debt

While a loan may be a viable option to pay off credit cards, it is essential to assess your situation to determine if it is the right time to pursue this path. Before deciding to take out a loan, it is crucial to assess your financial situation and determine if it is the right choice for you. Consider factors such as your credit score, income stability, and ability to make timely payments. Here are a few scenarios where a loan may be worth considering:

Your credit card debt has become unmanageable, with high balances and escalating interest charges.
Your credit score has improved, making you eligible for better terms and interest rates.
You are committed to changing your financial habits and are confident in making loan payments on time.
You have researched and compared options, ensuring that the benefits outweigh the costs and potential risks.

Choosing the right time to take out a loan is crucial to ensuring its effectiveness in helping you pay off credit card debt and achieving financial stability. While consolidating debt can be beneficial, taking on additional debt without a solid repayment plan can lead to further financial strain. It’s important to create a budget and repayment strategy to ensure you can comfortably manage your payments and other financial obligations.
Why Choose a Personal Loan to Pay Off Credit Cards?
A personal loan can provide an alternative and potentially more affordable way to pay off your credit card debt. Unlike credit cards, which often have high-interest rates, personal loans typically offer lower interest rates and fixed repayment terms. By consolidating your credit card debt with a loan, you can simplify your monthly payments and save money on interest charges.
Another advantage of using a personal loan is the potential to improve your credit score. By reducing your credit card balances and making regular loan payments, you can demonstrate responsible financial behavior to credit bureaus. Over time, this can help increase your credit score, making qualifying for lower interest rates and better financial opportunities easier.
Alternative Loans to Pay for Credit Card Debt

When it comes to securing a loan to cover your credit card balance, several alternative options are available. Each option comes with its own terms, conditions, and eligibility criteria. Here are some common types of loans you might consider to find the best loan to pay off credit cards for you:
Payday Loans
Payday loans are short-term loans typically due on the borrower’s next payday. They are often used by individuals facing temporary cash shortages or unexpected expenses. Payday loans are characterized by high fees and interest rates, making them a costly borrowing option. Borrowers should approach these loans cautiously and consider alternatives, as they can lead to a cycle of debt if not repaid promptly.
Bad Credit Loans
Bad credit loans are designed for individuals with poor credit scores or limited credit histories. These loans may have higher interest rates and fees compared to traditional loans due to the increased risk for lenders. Bad credit loans can help borrowers access funds when they have difficulty qualifying for other types of financing. However, borrowers should carefully review the terms and conditions to ensure they can afford the payments.
Installment Loans
Installment loans involve borrowing a fixed amount of money and repaying it over a set period through scheduled payments or installments. These loans can be either secured or unsecured and may have fixed or variable interest rates. Installment loans are commonly used for large purchases, such as cars or appliances, or debt consolidation. They provide borrowers with a structured repayment plan and can help build credit when payments are made on time.
Debt Consolidation vs. Personal Loans
Stack of credit cards | Loan to pay off credit cards
When considering a loan to pay off credit cards, you may come across two common options: debt consolidation loans and personal loans. While they serve similar purposes, there are significant differences to understand.
A debt consolidation loan is specifically designed to combine multiple debts into one loan. By consolidating your debt, you can simplify your monthly payments, potentially lower your interest rates, and gain a more straightforward path to becoming debt-free. These solutions are often tailored for individuals with a significant amount of debt or struggling to manage multiple monthly payments.
On the other hand, personal loans are more versatile and can be used for various purposes, including paying off credit card debt. These loans typically have fixed repayment terms, lower interest rates than credit cards, and the potential to improve your credit score with responsible repayment.
Deciding between a debt consolidation loan and a personal loan will depend on your specific needs and financial situation. Consider factors such as your debt amount, the interest rates offered, and any additional fees or terms attached to the loan.
Apply Today with Wise Loan

Now that you have a better understanding of the benefits, types, and considerations of using a loan to pay off credit card debt, you may be ready to explore your options. Wise Loan is here to assist you in this journey by providing competitive personal loan options tailored to your needs. Apply now to start your application process.

Loyalty Cards and Apps That Can Help You Save Money

0

Everywhere you go, billboards leap out with happy customers exchanging their loyalty card points for goods and services, in 2022 the Loyalty card landscape is as competitive as ever, and this is great news for us as consumers with offers becoming better and better and more and more discount opportunities to be had.Being a Loyalty card user used to mean a bulging wallet or purse and having to sift through your cards to locate the right one, these days though, all the major players now have apps that can be easily scanned, and using your points has never been more accessible.In this article we seek to examine the ever growing loyalty card empire, its biggest players and the best advantages of the various options.Tesco ClubcardBeginning in 1995, the Tesco Clubcard is an elder statesman of the British loyalty card landscape. Now boasting in excess of 17 million users, the mathematics of this card are very simple, spend a pound, earn a penny or ‘point’ in the form of a voucher, it doesn’t sound like much but then  ‘every little helps’.The Tesco Clubcard has evolved into something of a British standard and these days there are many ways to add to your Clubcard points. This includes:Tesco SurveysAfter concluding a shop at Tesco, simply visit tescoviews.com and enter the 4-digit code on your receipt. Completing a questionnaire earns a whopping 25 points and a chance to win a £1000 gift card.Tesco MobileEarn 1 point for every pound you spend on your contract, as an extra bonus this includes SIM-only contracts.Tesco Bank Credit CardEarn 1 point for every £4 spent at Tesco or 1 point for every £8 spent otherwise.Fuel StationsEarn more points buying fuel at Esso and at Tesco fuel stations.Tesco Reward PartnersAnother advantage of using Tesco’s loyalty scheme is their deals with ‘Reward Partners’. This includes the option to make ‘boosted’ charitable donations for 3 x the voucher amount, or visit UK tourist attractions for alot less on the gate price.The deal works by exchanging £5 in points for £15 off the gate price, and the current deals include:
Sea Life centres
Alton Towers
Blackpool Pleasure Beach
Chessington
Legoland
Thorpe Park
Edinburgh Dungeons
Eden Project
Blackpool Zoo
Longleat Safari ParkF & F School UniformsFrom just £2.50 using loyalty card points you can get 2 school items! Whether this be polo shirts, sweatshirts, skirts or trousers all are in the scheme and well worth considering.National RailcardsYou can get an annual railcard for 1/3 of its actual cost by using Clubcard points, for further details please visit the Railcard website.MegabusYour points are also worth triple with the coaching giant Megabus, who already provide extremely cheap coach travel to many mainstream UK destinations, and some parts of Europe.Tesco also provides many ways for you to use your points from their mobile app, to key fobs, and their contactless card, Tesco is trying to make things as convenient as possible and to remain the biggest shark in these ever more infested waters.One downside we must mention of the Tesco loyalty card scheme is that the vouchers expire after two years, although Money Saving Expert offers some solutions to potentially claim back any unspent vouchers.Boots Advantage CardBoots’ loyalty card offering, The Advantage Card, is also well established in the UK retail market.Advantage card users get four points for every £1 spent either in-store, online or through the app and as of the start of 2022 cardholders are also privy to a new discount scheme called ‘Price Advantage’ allowing up to 50% off selected purchases.Anyone keen on signing up for the many benefits of Boots advantage can do so by signing up for free through the Boots app, or in-store.More disappointing news is the recent announcement that from June 2022 all advantage card points would be void from accounts that haven’t been used for the last year,  a reduction from their current 2 year usage policy. No need to panic though, it’s simply a matter of scanning your card before June to reactivate the 1-year policy.Besides Price Advantage, there are competitions where you can win a £250 gift card, personalised offers through the Boots app, a parenting club for parents or those expecting, over 60s rewards, student offers providing 10% reductions, and Beauty X providing beauty hacks and exclusive offers to enhance and save on your beauty regime.You will think that’s plenty, but that’s not all. You also get a gift on your birthday and a free health and beauty magazine.All in all the Boots advantage card is well worth having and a must for frequent shoppers, please see here for current details and offers: https://www.boots.com/shopping/advantage-cardThe Nectar CardMost consumers hear ‘Nectar Card’ and instantly think about Sainsbury’s, but the Nectar Card actually has over 300 big brand partners and your points can be spent at any of these locations, no matter where you earned them. There are always deals to be had!Watch out, especially for Sainsbury’s’ Double Up’ events where points can be redeemed at double their value.Among the other key Necta’ partners are Argos, eBay, British Airways and Sky, and collecting points cannot be simpler. With personalised offers, partner offers from Nectar affiliates, and online shopping through hundreds of big brand stores, the Nectar Card is much more than just another Loyalty card. Co-op Membership CardRewarding 2p for every £1 spent, the Co-op card is more generous than other cards, and as a member you are also entitled to exclusive offers and personalised savings based on your previous purchases.Aside from your weekly food shop, Co-op has many other strings to its bow and Membership Card discounts can be found on funeral care, insurance and legal services, all under the Co-op umbrella.Co-op also offers a very generous student discount scheme with up to 10% off your shop, and a ‘cash back’ scheme for those who use Co-op banking. They also match any rewards you accrue with a charitable donation of the same amount.Keeping up with the other supermarket chains, Co-op also has a convenient app or the standard card as ways to pay.One small downside is the £1 joining fee but frequent users will more than makeup for this, and with double the points on offer it is among the best Loyalty card offerings out there.My Morrisons CardThe last of the Loyalty cards in this article is the My Morrisons Card, formerly Morrisons More, this card has also expanded its array of treats and offerings.Its most enticing promotions include the Christmas Saver Scheme and the My Morrisons Clubs, a list of these and their offers can be found on their Help Page.Morrisons also has an ever-convenient app that can be installed on your phone with a simple download, and a digital shopping website so you don’t even need to leave the comfort of home to start saving money.Best Loyalty Card Apps 2022In this digital age, many businesses are finding ever more inventive ways to make customers’ lives more efficient. Not so long ago the idea of storing all your loyalty cards in one place was a nice dream but did not replace the bulging wallet or list of apps on your phone, today this idea is a bountiful reality of competition, all vying for your business.Here is a brief rundown of the chief players and what they can do for you.StocardiOS & AndroidStocard is one of the older apps on the market. Its method is a tried and tested simple one of storing all your apps on one simple to operate platform.It has certainly not been left behind though and is still changing its operating practices to keep with current trends, now offering discounts on gift cards and contactless ways to pay, it is still a big hitter in this saturated market.Rym CardiOS & AndroidSimilar to Stocard, Rym Card is an app that allows you to create digital copies of your loyalty cards on your phone.Its “share card” feature allows you to share your cards with your friends (and vice versa), meaning you can earn points based on your friends’ spending.Rewards CardsiOS & AndroidThe name says it all, really. With the goal of “transition from wallet space to screen space”, the Reward Cards app allows you to scan your loyalty cards’ barcodes on your phone which can then be scanned at the till.The Rewards Card app also allows you to earn reward Coins through shopping pm certain sites, watching videos or downloading apps. These Reward Coins can then be redeemed for Amazon vouchers or cash through Paypal.FidmeiOS & AndroidFidme is another older player on the market but like Stocard has adapted to the demands of its loyal customer base and has grown new branches.Originating in France but now encompassing a worldwide range of stores and stamp cards, Fidme is quick, easy to use and linked to both apple and android devices. Having started in France it is also highly conscious of language barriers and at the time of writing boasts translation in 14 different languages.Apple WalletiOS OnlyThe Apple Wallet is extremely popular among IOS users due to its convenience and its ability to hold highly diverse information, from travel cards to event tickets, loyalty cards to digital keys, the apple app allows you to store them all in one, security-conscious place!Available on many Apple devices including phones of course and Apple watches.Google PayiOS & AndroidGoogle Pay is the Apple Wallet equivalent *though can be used on iOS devices as well as its native Android). As with Apple Wallet, Google Pay allows you to store digital versions of loyalty cards, rewards, memberships and gift cards, as well as special offers for thousands of merchants that are on the Google Pay platform. Whatever your Loyalty preferences, there are so many to choose from these days, our advice here at CarCashPoint is to take your time, and think about the options that best suit your pocket and lifestyle, there are a host of offers out there, and things to enjoy that you maybe wouldn’t normally treat yourself to.With the saturation and the changing face of the British economy, many consumers have become immune to the enticements of Loyalty cards and Apps, but many of these have upped their game and are well worth a second look in 2022.If this article has whet your appetite to the possibilities of today’s many cards and loyalty schemes, there are many, many more to look at, a simple online search will reveal an ever-changing world of offers, schemes, clubs and promotions at your fingertips, there are a host of savings to be had, charities to contribute to and activities to experience just by shopping in a slightly different way. Good luck and happy shopping!

How Filing the FAFSA Early Can Snag You More Aid

0

Let’s be real: Filling out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) isn’t anyone’s idea of a good time. It’s long and boring — well, boring until you realize it’s your best shot at getting free money to help pay for college.
But a lot of students don’t fill out the FAFSA or do so late in the game because they wrongly believe they won’t qualify for aid or won’t qualify for enough to make it worth it. But applying late (or never) could cost you a lot more than most students realize.
Find out why you should fill out your FAFSA as close to its Oct. 1 opening date. And if you need help doing so, we’ve got resources for that too.

Why is FAFSA so important?
First things first: For anyone even considering attending college, the FAFSA is one of the most important steps in the process. If you don’t fill out the FAFSA, you take yourself out of the running for most kinds of student aid, including:

Federal grants including the Pell Grant and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG) (need-based aid)
Subsidized federal student loans (need-based) 
Unsubsidized federal student loans (most students qualify for these regardless of need)
Federal work-study benefits
Some state-based financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and loans
Some school-based financial aid, including need-based grants and scholarships
Some school-based merit aid, since many schools require you file a FAFSA before they’ll consider you

That’s … a lot. In fact, unless you have a proven system for winning the lottery, it leaves you with very few other aid options besides private scholarships. While those are options, you’re not guaranteed of getting any. And even stellar students are unlikely to win enough scholarships to cover their entire cost of going to college.
We want everyone to get the college experience they want at an affordable price, so some of the data from Sallie Mae’s most recent How America Pays for College report was stunning.
Turns out, most people don’t fully understand why the FAFSA is important, or the level of benefits it offers to everyone. A lot of people think it’s only for lower-income families. That’s flat-out wrong. Virtually everyone qualifies for some aid through the FAFSA. As we saw above, even some merit-based aid requires you to fill it out to be considered.
The survey also found that 30% of college families didn’t even file the FAFSA. Of those, 36% didn’t because they thought they made too much to qualify. Many of the other families either missed the deadline, found the process too burdensome, or didn’t know about it.
Among families who did file the FAFSA, there’s still a lot of misunderstanding of how it works. Only one-quarter knew that the application opens in October, and roughly half didn’t realize that their state could have an earlier deadline for completing it.
Put those details together and the picture it paints is concerning. Too many families aren’t filing, or they’re filing later in the school year than they need to.
Why is filing FAFSA later a problem?
You may be thinking: I get it – I need to file, and I plan to. But why does it matter when I file?
There are two main reasons. First, if you wait too long, you could miss the deadline completely. You’ve got a lot on your plate as you wrap up your high school career. It’s easy enough to overlook one deadline out of the many you’re juggling. Nor do you want to wait until the last minute only to realize you forgot to gather information you need or your computer decided this was the perfect time to self-destruct.
Second, some types of funding are limited or are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. If you file the FAFSA too late, you could easily miss out on aid that you would have qualified for but went to students who filed earlier than you.
The flip side of that is that the earlier you file, the more likely you are to get a bigger slice of the financial aid pie.
When and how to file the FAFSA
In a perfect world, you’d fill out the FAFSA form the day it opens to the public — Oct. 1. (Subtle hint: That date’s coming up soon!)
Granted, that day might not be the best possible day for you. But even if you can’t fill it out that day, shortly after it opens, you should, at minimum, take a peek at it to check on a few things.
First, make sure you don’t have any technical issues opening and using the FAFSA. This isn’t common, but you don’t want a last-minute technical issue on your side to keep you from submitting something this important. No one wants to lose a scholarship because over a software glitch.
Next, go through the application to check what information you need. (We’ve got a cheat sheet to help.) Most of this info shouldn’t be hard to find (tax returns, income information, etc.), but you’ll need information from your parents/guardians and stepparents, if applicable, so make sure you leave time enough for document gathering.
If any of the questions look confusing, check our guide on completing the FAFSA. It can walk you through the form to make sure you get it right. (You can fix errors later if needed but doing it right the first time is always easier of course.)
Once you feel confident you have what you need, find an hour when you have nothing else pressing to do so you can work through the application without rushing. Put on some tunes or a favorite podcast and get cracking. Believe it or not, once you get started, it’s not so bad. And once you’ve finished, you can sit back and wait to see how much aid you get.
Explore more funding options with Nitro
While the FAFSA is a vital part of your college education funding strategy, it’s also true that for many students this aid won’t cover the full cost of attendance. While you wait for your offer letter, consider checking out our resources on scholarships and student loans to help bolster the funding you have for college.

International Loan and financial Modelling for Greenhouse Farming System

0

 International Loan and financial Modelling for Greenhouse Farming SystemInternational Loan and financial Modelling for Greenhouse Farming SystemApart from the establishment of the primary facility, there are various other components that require money and financial assistance in order to work as a whole system. Greenhouse farming systems integrate floriculture and horticulture agricultural activities. Setting up a greenhouse facility will necessitate a significant cash commitment as well as prior planning, there should be a considerable numbers of Financing Options for Greenhouse Farming.There are Several financing options for setting up greenhouses farming which bank loan remains paramount and feasible in the entire world of agriculture. Havelet Finance offers a full range of services for the financing and construction of greenhouse farming and as well, modernization, repair and maintenance.To ensure that all of these things run smoothly and without hiccups, you’ll need a notable financing options for Greenhouse Farming as indicated below;Within the ambit of agricultural and rural banking, banks provides financing setup and options for greenhouse farming setup. Banks also provides a variety of different agricultural loans and financial aid to farmers. They also provide appropriate repayment arrangements for farmers’ loan amounts and adequate time for farmers to generate money. If you need more information and other financial options for greenhouse farming, you can go to your nearest local bank branch.Several agricultural loans are available through Reliance Money. Reliance Money is notably the best financing options for greenhouse farming and loans for the establishment of a food processing unit, the establishment of a new storage facility, the installation of a drip irrigation system, the construction of a greenhouse, the installation of various Agri-equipment, and so on. They offer a variety of one-of-a-kind loans as per your agri-business requirements.Financing for greenhouse equipment and related larger impact projects can sometimes be secured through several different types of grants:Private Foundations (local, state and national)County and State Government GrantsFederal Grants (USDA, Energy, Education, etc.)Grants are typically made to nonprofit or public organizations, coalitions or partnership coalitions. Grantsmanship is a competitive process, which is why it is important to understand grant formatting as well as the priorities of each funder. Some grants take 3 to 6 months for funder review. Grants are one component of a total philanthropy strategy for raising money. We work with BrightSpot Communities LLC for grant writing and training services, as well as philanthropy strategy consultation, to help customers financing their vision.Projects that demonstrate strong growth potential, return on investment and community impact are sometimes investor worthy. Three types of investments are made by individuals and/or investment financing firms. These include:Angel Investment: generally, cover start-up operations, or research and development.Debt Financing: covering operating costs over a set period of time, with negotiated terms of return.Equity Financing: full financing through terms of joint ownership.The development of a basic business document toolkit is required for an investor approach, including executive summary, business plan, budget proforma, and supporting research. Finding the right investor requires prospect research, as well as a communication strategy to attract interest. BrightSpot Communities LLC provides both business toolkit development support, growth advising and investor research and development.In a highly competitive world, the financing of innovative projects plays a critical role in many industries. The development and acquisition of new technological solutions can be financed using venture capital financing for greenhouse farming system. (business angels), as well as investment loans and other instruments, depending on the situation.Often, an additional support tool is state subsidies for investment projects (including the necessary staff training and consulting activities). Venture capital is a type of medium-term and long-term equity financing, which is provided by investing outside the public capital market.The term business angels refers to individuals who provide equity capital to new, innovative businesses with high growth potential with whom they share industry interests.In fact, these are entrepreneurs who make venture investments using their own funds. Often these are businessmen who have achieved success in a particular industry in the past. As a result, they have sufficient experience and capital that can be invested in innovative projects of interest. In this case we are talking about investments that rarely exceed several million euros. Larger projects need other sources of financing, especially since it is difficult to arrange simultaneous financing of a project by several business angels.Corporate venture capital refers to the investment activities carried out by venture capital firms. It is closely related to investing in capital-intensive technological and innovative projects and companies in the early stages of development. In case of commercial success of a specific project, the next step for the investor (in this case, a large investment firm) may be the development of different forms of cooperation in the field of production, distribution, etc. To this end, partners can create joint ventures or, in some cases, buy out a controlling stake in an innovative company.Havelet Finance Limited offers a wide range of services for business and funding for greenhouse farming system:• Project finance services• Financial modeling and consulting.• Loan guarantees and much more.We support the financing of large projects develop advanced financial models for our clients and offer professional advisory services.Website: http://www.havelet-finance.com/Email:admin@havelet-finance.com

How To Stop Your Business Being Scammed?

0

There are many criminals and scammers present in today’s time to harm you and your company. It would help if you had a check mark on Small Business Scams Prevention steps to protect your business from scams. Just a company IT is not enough to help you here. Professional business IT support services have the tools and knowledge to safeguard your business from fraud. It is risky to accept credit cards or enter your own card details to buy raw materials or other business necessities online. You can implement several tools and specialized business IT support to secure your business from fraudsters. Here are three tools that can enhance security by guarding Protecting Small Businesses against scams, the tools are: Address Verification Card Verification 3-D Secure Technology Almost every credit card owner provides you with the benefits of all three tools. Then, be it for a small fee or free service providers. Let us now explore these tools in greater detail. 1. Address Verification Address verification is good for preventing fraud for companies and small businesses. It can work for companies that regularly enter credit card information by hand. There are many such businesses, like small retail stores, that still need business loan leads to become stable in the industry. Almost every credit card processing service and other company IT support provides you with information to spot potential fraud. The service has a way of working; it compares the address and name provided by a customer with information on the files of the relevant credit card issuer. The service provides alphabetic codes. The code indicates the matching of the information or partial match or complete mismatch. These codes are known as AVS codes, and you can learn more about what each code means to you. You can use these codes to automatically or manually decline transactions or manually review the codes. You can also set filters to decline transactions when one or more specific codes are triggered. Apart from fraud prevention, sometimes the card processing companies also insist on using AVS services. In such cases, you may save some processing costs since the processor is also ensuring a safe transaction for you. The charges are nominal in the range of 1 to 10 cents per transaction. Some card processors may also offer a discount on the bulk cost of card processing when you use AVS. The cost of using AVS is very insignificant compared to its advantages. Plus, it can prevent expensive fraud or chargeback. 2. Card Verification Code / Value CVV and CVC refer to the numerals that are used to verify the authenticity of your credit card. The number appears on your physical card. The businesses cannot store the number. The CVV is to make sure that the customer is in physical ownership of the card while using it. A surety is required as unauthorized people often have only the card number. When the transaction asks for the CVV, we can recognize the fraudulent purchases. It plays a major role in small business scam prevention. Most cards have three-digit CVV or CVCs that can be found at the back of your card’s signature panel. American Express uses a 4-digit code present on the front side of your card. It is distinct from the card number itself. Business IT support services or Business IT Support Melbourne can guide you better about the protection of your online transactions with this tool. CVV protects you in the online transaction. It can be a basic defense layer for you. It ensures that the card number is not stolen and that the user is in physical possession of the card. CVV lessens the expenses while manually entering details for in-person transactions. It is a high risk to have Keyed transactions without CVV. The processing cost increases when you move ahead without CVV. When you use CVV, the transaction gains legitimacy and can bring your costs down. Most card issuers do not charge for CVV/CVC, though Master Card does charge a very small fee of $0.0025 for each transaction protected through CVV/CVC. 3. 3D Secure Technology 3D secure technology is another tool for fraud prevention. It has three components in its authentication process. The three components are: The Card Company You Your bank All three sum up to operate the entire authentication process. The process is essential in case your card gets into the hands of miscreants accidentally. In such cases, the CVV test could be passed easily. But, if you add the 3D secure tool to the card you could protect your eCommerce businesses. In this situation, the user will need to add a personalized code during checkout which will not be available to miscreants. If you want to proceed with a card issuer you may need a detailed process mostly. For the transaction process, you may need to contact the related processing company and get a plug-in installed. Even most card issues use chip-based cards. Such cards increase the chances of fraud in online space. This is why, for protecting small businesses, you should use one or more anti-fraud tools. The tools will protect your interests as well as the interests of your customers. Another big advantage of 3D Secure is that with MasterCard and Visa, you might be able to shift liability for fraud to the card issuer. It’s considered a strong way to verify identity. Identity verification can protect you in case of disputes or chargebacks. While the technology itself is free, getting the necessary plug-in or hiring a developer to set it up might cost you a bit. Summing Up In the digital world, you always have the threat of scams and scammers. Cybercriminals are always hunting for online scams. But we should be aware of the scammers to protect our business and our company. We should learn and apply some techniques to prevent potential frauds from hurting our businesses. Irrespective of whether you own a successful business or are new to the use of credit cards, you should implement these tips and tools to protect your company. Inform your team or ask the processor to take them through a short learning curve.

How MSME Loans Drive Transformation for Indian Businesses

0

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) have long been recognized as the backbone of the Indian economy as they contribute significantly to employment generation, innovation, and overall economic growth. However, accessing adequate financial resources has been a persistent challenge for these enterprises. In recent years, the rapid growth of new age NBFCs and Fintech has emerged as a game-changer, empowering businesses across various sectors by providing easy and timely funds. In this article, we explore how Indian MSMEs are unlocking growth opportunities and fueling their expansion dreams.
The Importance of MSMEs in the Indian Economy
Recognizing the significance of MSMEs, the Indian government has implemented various policies and initiatives to support their growth and development. These include access to credit, infrastructure development, skill development programs, and simplified regulatory frameworks.
These are integral to the Indian economy, driving economic growth, employment generation, and fostering innovation. Nurturing and supporting the MSME sector is crucial for building a robust, resilient, and inclusive economy that benefits all sections of society.
How MSME Loans from NBFCs are Transforming Indian Businesses
Accessible and Streamlined Loan Process: These entities have adopted technology-driven solutions, making the loan application process faster, simpler, and more accessible. Businesses can now apply for loans online from Clix Capital, reducing paperwork and eliminating the need for multiple visits to banks.
Collateral-Free: These loans have embraced the concept of being collateral-free. Lenders evaluate the creditworthiness of businesses based on their financial performance, cash flow, and future prospects, rather than relying solely on tangible assets as security. This approach has broadened the scope for MSMEs to obtain loans and leverage their growth potential.
Customized Loan Products: Whether it’s a working capital loan, machinery loan, secured or unsecured loans, MSMEs can access specialized loan products tailored to their specific needs. This flexibility allows businesses to address their immediate financial challenges, seize growth opportunities, and scale their operations effectively.
Competitive Interest Rates and Terms: New age NBFCs and Fintech offer competitive interest rates and favorable repayment terms compared to traditional lending channels. With increased competition in the lending space, interest rates have become more affordable, making borrowing feasible for MSMEs. Moreover, the availability of longer repayment tenures and flexible EMIs (Equated Monthly Installments) further eases the financial burden on these enterprises, enabling them to allocate resources efficiently.
Fueling Business Expansion and Innovation: With access to timely and adequate funding, MSMEs can invest in modern technology, upgrade infrastructure, improve product quality, expand distribution networks, and explore new markets. These investments not only enhance business efficiency but also foster innovation and competitiveness, enabling them to tap into new growth opportunities.

 
Eligibility criteria for MSMEs Loan in India
The eligibility criteria for applying for an MSME loan may vary slightly depending on the lending institutions. Here are the general eligibility criteria that Clix Capital consider when evaluating the loan applications:
Age Requirement: Must be between the ages of 21 and 65 at the time of loan application.
Turnover Limit: The turnover limit can vary depending on the lender and the specific loan product, but a minimum of 1 Crore in turnover is required.
Business Vintage: A running business in the current field of work, with at least 3 years of overall business experience.
Minimum Credit Score: While specific credit score requirements can vary, a minimum credit score of around 700 or higher is typically expected and CMR of up to 7 is required, as well as a steady income flow.
To ensure accuracy, it is recommended to check with the specific lender or financial institution for their precise eligibility criteria before applying for a loan.
Required Documents for MSME Loan Applications
When applying for an MSME loan from Clix Capital, there are a few sets of documents needed to support the loan application process. The following are the most frequently requested documents:

PAN Card
GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number)
Bank statement from the previous six months
Form for the Most Recent Income Tax Return
Copy of income computation, audited balance sheet, and profit and loss statement for the previous two years
Providing three years of business continuity proof, such as your sales tax certificate, establishment, ITR, or trade licence.

It’s crucial to keep in mind that the documentation requirements may change depending on the loan amount, purpose, and lender restrictions. To obtain accurate information about the documentation required for an MSME loan application, it is advisable to contact the relevant lender or financial institution.
Applying for an MSME loan is a strategic move that can unlock a world of growth opportunities for Indian businesses. By accessing timely and adequate funding of upto Rs. 50 lakhs, businesses can invest in technology, upgrade infrastructure, and explore new markets, fostering innovation and competitiveness. With these loans paving the way, India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem is poised for unprecedented growth and economic prosperity.

Introducing NCLC’s Student Loan Toolkit

0

Whether you are just starting your student loan journey or have been dealing with student loan debt for decades, you can use NCLC’s newly created Student Loan Toolkit to help you take charge of your student loan situation and move forward. Download the toolkit today!

The Toolkit explains the basics of the student loan system, how to assess your own student loan situation, and your options for managing your student loan debt. It includes fillable pages where you can record your own student loan information to help you work through your situation and track your progress toward becoming debt-free. Finally, the Toolkit includes information on how and when to get additional help with your student loans, as well as other useful resources.

While the Toolkit is addressed to student loan borrowers, it can also be used by financial counselors, legal aid attorneys, and other advocates who work with people with student loan debt. The content is useful as a resource to borrowers, counselors, and attorneys alike, and the fillable pages can be used to guide meetings with borrowers, collect key information, and document information for the borrower to refer back to as needed. 

The Toolkit was adapted from the National Consumer Law Center’s book, Surviving Debt. Surviving Debt has been a leading resource for nearly 30 years, providing practical advice on how to deal with crushing debt of all types. Surviving Debt is available for free online at library.nclc.org/book/surviving-debt. You can also purchase a print copy at library.nclc.org/SD/subscribe. 

NCLC’s Toolkit and the Launch of the DFPI Student Loan Empowerment Network in California

NCLC created this Toolkit as part of an important new initiative launched this month to empower borrowers and expand access to free student loan support in California. This initiative, led by the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI), has created a new Student Loan Empowerment (SLE) Network. The SLE Network connects California student loan borrowers with free expert, trusted and personalized support that can break the detrimental cycles of debt and generational poverty. The SLE Network organizations are community-based and legal aid organizations that provide free financial coaching and legal assistance, including help signing up for income-driven repayment plans and applying for federal student loan forgiveness programs. NCLC, as the SLE Network Training and Quality Assurance partner, has developed the Student Loan Toolkit in collaboration with and support from DFPI.

For more information about the SLE Network, or to request help (for borrowers in California), visit studentloanhelp.dfpi.ca.gov or call (888) 774-2227.

How a Kamala Harris presidency could impact housing

0


Following President Biden’s announcement over the weekend that he will not be seeking reelection, all eyes have turned to Vice President Kamala Harris as she gathers support from the Democratic Party. The vice president has a long history in the public sphere, having served as the district attorney of San Francisco, the California state attorney general, and a senator before coming to the White House.  Throughout her two-decade career in politics, Harris’ name has been attached to efforts intended to increase the supply of affordable housing, address the racial wealth gap, and combat mortgage fraud. These initiatives, and how she has interacted with mortgage entities in the past as attorney general, can offer insight into her potential agenda if elected to higher office.The platform for her 2020 presidential campaign included the pursuit of racial equality, with a pledge to establish a $100 billion program to help Black families and individuals buy homes. While she lost the 2020 race, some of her ideas made their way into policies during the Biden administration.In May, Harris announced $5.5 billion in new funding to boost affordable housing supply and expand rental assistance through HUD.The White House also recently drew some criticism from the mortgage industry after the Biden-Harris Housing Plan proposed imposing an annual 5% cap on rent increases on landlords while also facilitating the construction of two million affordable homes on repurposed public land. If passed, it would be in place for the remainder of 2024 and the following two years. Prior to her stint at the White House, Harris’ time in California was marked by long-term problems with housing affordability and low inventory. Californians were hit hardest by foreclosures during the 2008 financial crisis as many borrowers in the state had pay-option adjustable-rate mortgages that went underwater. In 2019, then a senator, Harris introduced a companion bill to House Financial Services Committee Chairwoman Maxine Waters’ Housing is Infrastructure Act, which seeks to alleviate the public housing capital backlog and improve living conditions for low-income households. Waters said the legislation will ensure affordable housing is part of broader infrastructure investments. The House bill was referred to the Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights, and Civil Liberties in Nov. 2022 and no action has been taken since. “Too many Americans are fighting tooth and nail to keep a roof over their heads as our nation continues to face a housing affordability and homelessness crisis,” Harris said in a 2019 joint press release. “It will take a comprehensive and serious investment to confront this issue head on, and the Housing is Infrastructure Act is our best chance to get it done.” While Harris was not very active on banking policy issues as a senator, she did oppose the 2018 regulatory relief law that allows mid-sized banks to forgo certain ability-to-pay requirements in residential mortgage loans. The bill passed in the Senate despite her vote and was signed into law by former President Trump.During her term as attorney general, from 2011 to 2017, she supervised California’s litigation over bank mortgage policies and held out in multistate settlement negotiations to force banks to raise their offers for homeowner relief. “Kamala comes from the school of thought that government must save Wall Street from itself,” Eleni Kounalakis, the Democratic lieutenant governor of California and an early backer of Harris’s presidential campaign, told National Mortgage News in 2020. “I know she values competition and entrepreneurship, and I know she will also hold big corporations accountable.”In one case, Harris negotiated for California to receive a larger portion of the $25 billion National Mortgage Settlement with five servicers over their use of “robo-signing” on foreclosure documents. After talks with Bank of America Corp., Citigroup Inc. and other lenders, initial offers of less than $5 billion grew to $20 billion in relief for homeowners in addition to $410 million that went to the state on behalf of big pension funds for misrepresentation in the sale of mortgage-backed securities. Some argued that California should not have received that much benefit from the National Mortgage Settlement, as it left many homeowners with little relief in other affected states like Ohio, which received less than 1% of the fund. She also created a task force in California aimed at cracking down on industry scams, called the Mortgage Fraud Strike Force. The 25-person task force, made up of 17 lawyers and eight special investigators from the Department of Justice, pursues cases of alleged deceptive lending practices, foreclosure scams and corporate fraud. Harris faced much criticism, however, for deciding not to pursue a civil enforcement action against OneWest bank for illegal foreclosure practices during her office’s investigation in 2012 and 2013. OneWest was run by Steven Mnuchin, who at the time was the CEO and founder of Dune Capital, before he sold the bank to CIT Group in 2015. Mnuchin later served as Secretary of Treasury during the Trump administration. Harris was then the only Democratic senate candidate in 2016 to receive a contribution from Mnuchin, a Keefe, Bruyette & Woods report on her candidacy noted. Regarding not pursuing OneWest, Harris reportedly told The Hill, “It was a decision my office made.”After stepping aside, Biden firmly endorsed Harris. She’s also received endorsements from over half of the pledged delegates she needs to secure the nomination, according to The Associated Press. The vice president said she seeks to “earn and win” the Democratic nomination. If the party selects her, Harris will still need to choose a running mate and boost a campaign for her candidacy with less than 100 days left in the race. The vice president received $81 million in donations in the first 24 hours since her announcement to run, setting a historic record, according to the Associated Press. Before announcing her run, Harris had agreed to a debate with the GOP vice presidential nominee JD Vance to take place on either July 23 or Aug. 13 on CBS News. 

Have You Heard the News? We’re 9th in the Country for Work-Life Balance

0

Reading Time: 2 minutes
Cornerstone Home Lending has been named one of the 10 best U.S. companies for work-life balance by Glassdoor. Analysts from Glassdoor read millions of reviews from full-time, U.S. employees from Q1 to Q3 of this year to determine the results.

With our long-standing commitment to providing excellent balance and other great perks for our people (like an extra day off on their birthday), we are thrilled – but not at all surprised by our number nine ranking.

What Employees Are Saying

You don’t have to take our word for it. Our people have shared over 400 reviews on Glassdoor, with 91% of reviewers saying they would recommend Cornerstone to a friend. Check out what some of them had to say:

“The team members at Cornerstone are all so welcoming and helpful. It really does feel like a big team! Great pay and benefits. Excellent home/work life balance.”

“Cornerstone is by far the best place I have ever worked. They truly care about you as an individual and work life balance is HUGE to them! Not only is the company as a whole great, but everyone who works here is awesome too.”

“Wonderful teammates/collaboration, flexible, good work/life balance, strong leadership, uplifting mission & a clear vision for the future.”

“Everyone is awesome to work with and there is great teamwork displayed every day. The culture is fun, yet productive, so you want to come into work. This is the best place by far that I have ever worked at. There is also good work and home life balance which is a huge blessing.”

“Cornerstone Home Lending treats their employees like family! The atmosphere is positive and supportive. Employees are encouraged to be the best they can be, and there are opportunities to learn and grow within the company and the industry. I really identify with the values and culture of the company, and the work/life balance is also a helpful attribute for those with families.”

Want a career with award-winning work-life balance? We’re hiring.

We are proud of the overwhelmingly positive feedback, and it only pushes us to do even better for our people. In fact, over the years we have developed a habit of receiving awards like this one. Earlier this year, we were recognized in Great Place to Work rankings for Best Workplaces for Women, Best Workplaces for Millennials, Best Workplaces in Financial Services & Insurance, and Best Workplaces in Texas.

For educational purposes only. Please contact your qualified professional for specific guidance.

Sources deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

College Admissions Scandal – Key Players and Timeline

0

Parents will often do anything for their children. In March 2019, the College Admissions Scandal revealed just how far some parents were willing to go to give their kids a shot at a college education. And, just how far one company and several coaches were willing to go to make it happen. Continue reading to learn about how…
The post College Admissions Scandal – Key Players and Timeline appeared first on Student Debt Relief | Student Loan Forgiveness.