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Whether you prefer to ignore your natal day … or you still celebrate with gusto every year, there are a few birthdays we all need to recognize.  We’re referring to the birthdays with financial implications.   HERE’S OUR LIST OF FINANCIALLY IMPORTANT BIRTHDAYS: Day One: Newborns can be registered for Social Security immediately.Childhood: At age 15, one can get a learner’s permit which affects parents' insurance rates. It's advised to research and shop around for auto coverage.Age 18: This is the legal age of adulthood. Key actions include registering to vote, potential military service registration, and self-medical decision making. Parents are advised to discuss financial responsibilities with their 18-year-olds.Age 19: Parents can't claim you as a tax dependent anymore, but college students have until age 24.Age 21: Self-employed individuals can invest in a SEP-IRA.Age 24: College students filing as dependents need to prepare to file taxes independently.Age 26: Individuals must leave their parents' health i

Lauren Gajdek is Vice President of Communications and Media at Christian Healthcare Ministries, an underwriter of this program. WHAT IS BIBLICAL COST SHARING AT CHM?Christian healthcare ministries (CHM) is not a health insurance company.CHM helps members with their medical bills through a biblical model, working with healthcare providers to get bill discounts and then remitting payments back to the members.CHM has existed for over 40 years and has shared almost $10 billion in medical bills.  TELL US ABOUT THE SENIOR SHARE PROGRAM.Senior Share is for individuals aged 65 and older.Members need to be on Medicare Parts A and B, or have a Medicare Advantage plan.CHM complements insurance by covering what insurance doesn't pay to prevent seniors from having unpaid medical bills after Medicare payments.  HOW DOES SENIOR SHARE AFFECT CURRENT AND POTENTIAL CHM MEMBERS?Current members can transition smoothly to Senio Share once they turn 65.New members need to ensure they have Medicare A and B or the Medicare Advantage

SELF-EXAMINATION:Start by taking an honest assessment of your current financial situation and feelings towards money.Worrying about bills, arguing with a spouse, or avoiding charitable giving are signs of needing a change.Change can be daunting, but it is beneficial when facing financial troubles. TURNING TO SCRIPTURE:Isaiah 43 highlights that God is doing something new and will provide a way.Rely on biblical truths, such as those in Hebrews 4:12, can guide financial actions and mindset.Psalm 24:1 emphasizes that everything belongs to God, shifting the perspective from personal ownership to stewardship.Embracing this principle can change one's mindset about money management, knowing that it's God's resources you're managing. TRUSTING IN GOD'S PROVISION:Scriptures like Luke 12:24 affirm that God provides and cares for His creation.Using the Bible as a financial guide can help in areas of spending, saving, investing, and debt reduction. PRACTICAL STEPS TO MANAGING MONEY:Begin by choosing one biblical financial

Mark Biller is Executive Editor at Sound Mind Investing.In this month’s SMI newsletter, he has a great article to help folks make this decision, titled “Should You Use A Roth Account, Even If You Prefer Traditional?”  WHY IS THIS A GOOD TIME TO ASK WHETHER ONE SHOULD USE A ROTH ACCOUNT EVEN IF THEY PREFER TRADITIONAL?Roth IRAs were introduced in 1996 with rules about who can contribute.A new law will soon mandate some older, primarily higher income 401k investors to direct some contributions into Roth accounts.This law also impacts those using 403 B, 457 B plans, and the Thrift Savings Plan, prompting a reconsideration of investment strategies. [1:22] CAN YOU EXPLAIN THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ROTH AND TRADITIONAL ACCOUNTS?Both Roth and Traditional are specific types of accounts that provide tax benefits, applicable to 401 K plans or IRAs.Roth is not an investment type; you can own stocks, bonds, etc., inside or outside of these accounts.Traditional accounts offer tax benefits now but tax liabilities upon withdra

COMMITMENT TO BIBLICAL FINANCIAL PRINCIPLES:Success in various areas, including financial life, requires strong commitment and adherence to biblical principles.Effort is required to attain financial objectives like saving, planning, paying off debt, giving, and living with integrity. This commitment offers peace, contentment, and joy.Serving God with finances allows participation in his blessings and provides testimonies to inspire others. BIBLICAL EXAMPLES OF COMMITMENT:The Bible emphasizes commitment through examples in Hebrews 11, showcasing believers prioritizing their faith in God.Jesus is the epitome of commitment, sacrificing himself for humanity. He signifies God's unwavering dedication to us. ROLE OF FAITH:Faith is crucial in financial commitment. Defined as “confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see”, it's vital for pleasing God (Hebrews 11:6).God’s directions on financial actions are clear, and with faith, one can trust Him in both prosperous and challenging times. MASTE

Learning Through Life’s Trials With Chris Fabry“For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness.” Hebrews 12:11 — No doubt everyone one of us can read that verse and think of a time when the Lord used a trial in our lives to teach us something of value. Chris Fabry joins us today to talk about that and much more.Chris Fabry is an author and popular Christian network talk show host.[1:30] - TELL ME ABOUT THE THEME OF TRUSTING GOD THAT HAS RECENTLY EMERGED ON YOUR SHOW: The struggle to truly trust God is prominent in many lives, even when professing faith.This struggle signifies life and the presence of the Spirit in someone's life, aiming to shape them in God's image.God values the process and growth that comes with struggle, not just the outcome.[2:47] - WHAT ARE THE KEYS TO BEING RECEPTIVE TO GOD'S VOICE DURING TOUGH TIMES?Humility is crucial; acknowledging that one often gets in their own way and impedes God's plans.Recognizing God's

Churches Need to Teach About MoneyWhen Stewardship Sunday comes around, some folks find excuses to skip church! It’s a fact that money isn’t a popular sermon topic.  Well, maybe that’s because people have the wrong attitude about money. We’ll talk about that today on Faith and Finance.Church leaders who teach God’s Word every week understand their responsibility to guide their flocks wisely.  Sometimes, they have to teach on tough topics, such as sin, spiritual discipline, and maybe even Leviticus. One of the most awkward sermon subjects, though, is money.Whenever a church leader mentions stewardship, or generosity, or tithing, you can almost hear the eyes rolling as the congregation takes a tighter grip on their wallets.  It’s as if churchgoers resent being reminded about their financial responsibilities. No wonder churches shy away from talking about money from the pulpit.Here are a few more reasons why money is a touchy subject for church leaders. REASONS CHURCH LEADERS AVOID TALKING ABOUT MONEY:Fear of fa

3 Objectives for Successful Investing20th century humorist Will Rogers once said, “I'm not so much interested in the return on my money as I am in the return of my money. It’s a funny line, but also something every investor should keep in mind. What are the objectives you should consider when risking your money? We’ll give you three of them today on Faith and Finance.Here are 3 Objectives for Successful Investing: UNDERSTANDING INVESTING OBJECTIVES:  Rob West clarifies the difference between an objective and a goal, emphasizing the significance of objectives in the investment journey.There are three main objectives in successful investing: safety, income, and growth. The more prominence one has, the lesser the other two will have. SAFETY: It's the primary objective investors usually want.Though no investment is entirely safe, government-issued bonds are considered the safest, backed by the U.S. government's full faith and credit.AAA-rated corporate bonds from large stable companies like Apple or Amazon are ne

7 Steps to Challenge Your Property AssessmentIt’s great when the value of your home goes up, but there’s also a serious downside. Homeowners all across America are getting notices that their property taxes are increasing. But are those assessments accurate? And if not, what can you do about it? Today we’ll give you the 7 steps to challenging your property assessment. Real estate analysts correctly predicted a surge in property taxes due to increased home values. Although rising home values are beneficial in theory, they often lead to increased property taxes that homeowners must pay immediately. However, homeowners can challenge these tax assessments, with a 20-40% success rate. To appeal: Determine the appeal deadline, usually indicated on the assessment notice.Understand the assessment process, typically a market value percentage.Ensure you receive applicable reductions, such as homestead exemptions or credits for certain demographics.Verify the accuracy of your property's official description for any discr

Principles and Practices of Financial Leverage with Ken Boa and Russ CrossonAre you rich? You might not think so, but compared to most of the world, you’re probably quite wealthy. Just having clean water, food and shelter sets us apart from much of the world’s population. The question is, what are we doing with this wealth? We’ll talk with Ken Boa and Russ Crosson about that today on Faith and Finance.Ken is a pastor and founder of Reflections Ministries. Russ is executive vice president and chief mission officer of Ronald Blue Trust.Together, they’ve written a terrific new book titled Leverage: Using Temporal Wealth for Eternal Gain, and we’re starting a 3-part series on it today. [0:50] - WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO COLLABORATE ON THIS BOOK ABOUT GIVING?  Ken had initially proposed an outline for a giving book that encompassed multiple processes and steps.Russ, having expertise in some areas Ken mentioned, provided a different outline. Their collaboration merged Ken's principles with Russ's practical insights.T

GOD'S PROMISESThe Bible is full of God’s promises.A simple search reveals numerous verses reassuring us that God will provide.God provides not just financially, but also in many other aspects like family, friends, and church. BIBLICAL EVIDENCEIn Genesis 22:14, the name "Jehovah Jireh" translates as "The Lord will provide".Reference to Abraham and Isaac: God provided a ram instead of Abraham sacrificing Isaac.Emphasis on obedience preceding God's provision. RELATING ANCIENT LESSONS TO TODAYGod's promises have remained consistent over millennia.Abraham's obedience brought him peace even in difficult times.Modern believers can find peace through obedience.Clarification: God promises to provide for our needs, not our desires or wants. JESUS' TEACHINGSIn Matthew 6:33-34, Jesus instructs to seek God's kingdom, and all necessities will be provided.God's financial principles: recognizing God as the owner, living below means, paying taxes, saving, and generosity. PURPOSE OF FOLLOWING GOD'S FINANCIAL PRINCIPLESGlorifyi

So, let’s look at three financial potholes that can wreck your budget. You’ll save money — and a big headache — if you can steer clear of these:  1. SCAMS:New scams are constantly appearing due to technology. Protection Measures:Keep devices updated with antivirus software.Guard your social security number and passwords.Learn more about identity theft at the FTC’s website or call 877-ID THEFT.Be wary of money transfer requests, especially if unverified.Avoid clicking on links from suspicious emails or texts.Do not share personal information over phone or email.Double-check claims from suspicious communications before acting.Stop and verify the source if feeling pressured. 2. MONEY LEAKS: Small charges or expenses that accumulate unnoticed.Examples:Free trials: Risk of forgetting to cancel after the trial ends.Auto-renewing subscriptions: Often forgotten and can renew indefinitely.Daily indulgences: Regular small expenses like coffee can add up.Grocery store temptations: Stick to the shopping list, especially

INTEGRITY: Beyond "being honest", it also means strength and dependability. CHRISTIANS AND INTEGRITY:Called to be honest, strong, and dependable like a bridge.Represent Jesus to the world.With God's help, Christians persevere through trials.James 1:12 — perseverance under trial. FOCUS ON FINANCIAL INTEGRITY:Your financial behavior reveals a lot about your character.Are you being honest and dependable with your money? HONESTY:Central to integrity.Jesus demands honesty from believers (Luke 3:13).Honesty is crucial for effective service in God's kingdom (Titus 1:7).Honest communities prosper (Proverbs 28:12-13).Practical aspects: Telling the truth on documents, fair treatment, transparency in financial dealings. MORAL STRENGTH:Not innate but given by God through the Holy Spirit.Studying the Bible leads to understanding God's ways.Following biblical principles strengthens moral integrity.Assurance: God will provide for our needs. DEPENDABILITY:Closely related to a good reputation.Solid reputation provides a platf

Sin springs from the fallen condition of our hearts and separates people from God. Tragically, our world is broken because of this, and the tendency towards evil touches every part of our lives, including our finances.That’s why we need Jesus, right? Today we’ll focus on envy and greed – both of which are on the list of “Seven Deadly Sins”, drawn up by believers in the 4th Century to describe the worst kinds of human desires. ENVY: Defined as a sense of jealousy and wanting what others have.It leads to covetousness, which directly goes against the Ten Commandments.Envy is divisive and deteriorates relationships by creating divides based on possessions.It results in a lack of inner peace, as affirmed by Proverbs 14:30. To overcome envy:Recognize it as a sin and repent.Seek God's forgiveness as guided by 1 John 1:9.Embrace the virtues of patience and kindness in 1 Corinthians 13:4.Cultivate gratitude and avoid comparisons, remembering God's provisions.Continually offer praise to God, inspired by Hebrews 13:15.G

Howard Dayton is the founder of Compass— Finances God’s Way and the former host of this program.  0:55 - WHAT'S THE FIRST LOAN TYPE WE SHOULD AVOID?Finance Company loans: High interest rates, large fees, and closing costs.Important to differentiate between interest rate and the APR, as the latter includes additional costs. 1:24 - AND THE SECOND?Payday loans:Viewed as "legalized robbery."Typically have an APR of 390%.Creates a cycle of borrowing due to high interest rates, with borrowers often giving away their entire paycheck to cover the loan. 2:21 - WHAT'S THE THIRD LOAN TYPE?Pawnshop loans:Short-term loans based on an item's value which is lost if the loan isn't repaid on time.Interest rates range from 5-25% per month.Many borrowers never reclaim their pawned items. 3:21 - AND THE FOURTH?Auto title loans:30-day loans using car titles as collateral.Risk of car repossession if payments aren't made on time.Referred to as "legalized auto theft" since you lose both the car and its equity regardless of loan size

MAXIMIZING 401(K) CONTRIBUTIONS:Not contributing enough to a 401(k) to receive the maximum employer matching contribution can result in money loss.An additional strategy involves "front-loading" contributions at the beginning of the year to maximize compound earnings, with the annual contribution limit noted as $22,500 (or $30,000 for those aged 50 or older).Caution is advised to maintain contributions throughout the year to secure the employer match effectively. UTILIZING ROTH IRAS:In cases where employers do not offer 401(k) plans, establishing a Roth IRA is recommended to prevent money loss due to compound earnings over time.Roth IRAs provide tax-free retirement income and are advantageous when anticipating higher future tax rates.Key benefits include exemption from required minimum distributions and tax-free withdrawals for heirs. Optimizing Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs):Employees should consider taking full advantage of FSAs offered by their employers to avoid money loss.FSAs come in two versions: me

Brad Formsma is the author ofI Like Giving and founder of the ministry by the same name.  WHY IS LIVING GENEROUSLY IMPORTANT IN TODAY'S CULTURE?Living generously is crucial because we are created in God's image, and He demonstrates incredible generosity.God's generosity is evident in His act of creation, sending Jesus, and gifting us with the Holy Spirit.Recognizing that we are made in God's image should inspire us to live generously. HOW CAN PARENTS AND GRANDPARENTS TEACH THE NEXT GENERATION ABOUT GENEROSITY?Many parents and grandparents worry about the faith and self-centeredness of the next generation.While some focus on passing down financial inheritance, it's equally important to ensure they understand that everything belongs to God.Ilikegiving.com offers various resources designed to help families engage in conversations about their own stories and what it means to live generously. HOW HAVE YOU USED STORYTELLING TO COMMUNICATE THE IMPORTANCE OF GENEROSITY?Storytelling is a powerful tool, and Jesus often

[1:00]"Live, give, owe, and grow" are principles that guide our money management, and today we're focusing on "owe" or debt.The Bible doesn't explicitly state that borrowing is wrong, but it does caution that debt can be enslaving and change relationships between borrowers and lenders. [2:14]3 SIMPLE BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES FOR HANDLING DEBTRepay what you borrow. Psalm 37:21 teaches, “The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous give generously." Free yourself from debt as quickly as possible. Proverbs 22:7 carries the stark warning, “The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender.”  And finally, we are to serve God, not money. Matthew 6:24 says plainly, “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”  The primary reason to avoid debt is to have the freedom to serve God and make decisions aligned with His will, rather than being enslaved to financial obligat

HELPING CHILDREN GRASP SPIRITUAL TRUTHS BEHIND THE FINANCIAL ONES            [1:07]Age-appropriate lessons include introducing the concept of money and work around age three to five.Spiritual lessons include understanding that God created everything and that work is a gift from God.     Gratitude and thanksgiving should be emphasized, as well as the importance of budgeting.    The three-jar method (saving, spending, giving) can be introduced around age five.[2:31]Saving for the future and generosity are important spiritual principles to instill.         Around ages 9 to 10, children can learn about earning money and that work is a gift from God.      Chores can be tied to allowances, teaching the value of work.       Ages 10 to 15 are a good time to expand on earning opportunities and savings goals. [3:51]Fairness and the principle of "the laborer deserves his wages" can be taught.Children can choose a ministry to support beyond their tithe to the local church.Ages 16 to 18 involve teaching budgeting, savings

If you’re not familiar with the latest variation of the individual retirement account— it wouldn’t be surprising. It’s only gone into effect this year.  ABOUT LEGACY IRAs[0:43]Unlike a traditional IRA, a Legacy IRA indirectly provides income to retirees through a Charitable Gift Annuity (CGA).A CGA is an agreement between a donor and a nonprofit organization, where the donor donates assets, and the nonprofit provides regular payments for life based on the donated assets, keeping the assets upon the donor's death.The Legacy IRA allows individuals over the age of 70 ½ with a traditional IRA to take up to $50,000 as a one-time Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) to set up a CGA.To utilize the Legacy IRA, individuals may need to roll over their 401k funds into an IRA.The annual payout from the CGA must be at least 5%. [3:50]BENEFITS OF USING IRA FUNDS FOR A CGA: It allows donors to increase their giving and ensure their future giving matches their values.It lowers the donor’s tax liability in the year the CGA