Wisconsin Saves Fun Tip: GETTING YOU GAS, Week 1
The Wisconsin Office of the State Treasurer proudly teams up with WWBIC (Wisconsin’s Womens
Business Initiative Corporation) for “Wisconsin Saves Fun Tip.”
The entire month of September, we are committed to GETTING YOU GAS FOR LESS! This week, it’s all about HOW you pay for it.
When you purchase gas this month, the right form of payment may make all the difference! Several credit cards are offering great rebates, but most are only good through the end of September. Chase Freedom and Discover Card are both offering 5% cash back while deals beyond September include American Express’ Blue Cash Preferred and Bank Americard that offer 3%. With the average gallon of gas in Wisconsin up to $3.48, every penny counts! Just remember… if you don’t normally purchase gas on credit, be sure to set aside the cash each week for the bill at the end of the month – it doesn’t become fun money!
Money Matters: Employer Provide Benefits
Employer Provided Benefits
Whether you’ve just started a new job as a recent graduate or you’ve been with the same company for years, you need to make sure you’re maximizing your employee benefits. Our friends at www.practicalmoneyskills.com tell you how!
Most employers offer a host of company-sponsored benefits. Often, the combined value of these coverages is worth a third or more of your base pay. That’s too much money to leave on the table. And some employee benefits have valuable tax advantages you can’t afford to ignore.
If your employer provides a 401(k) plan or Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and you’re not participating, you could be missing out on hundreds – or thousands – of dollars in tax savings each year. That’s money that goes right into your pocket instead of Uncle Sam’s.
Here you’ll find the ins and outs of employee benefits and everything you need to maximize your job and all it has to offer.
Treasurer’s Top 5: Polk County
This week, we travel to Polk County. Here’s a look at the Top 5 people and businesses there with unclaimed assets. Do you see anyone on this list you know? If so, have check out www.wismissingmoney.com and search their name to make a claim. They can also call 855-375-CASH (2274)
Polk County
Evelyn Green
Harold Leu
Joy Peterson
Esther Surkamer
Joyce Hill
FAQ Unclaimed Property: Where Do I Call for Help With My Claim?
Some of the Numbers have changed as the Unclaimed Property Program is now being adminstered by the Department of Revenue. The Office of the State Treasurer is still responsible for promoting the program and is happy to answer any questions we can for you. However, at the request of the Department of Revenue, direct lines to claims processors were removed from our website and they asks you to call and general line. That number is:
(608) 264-4594
FAQ Edvest: What Are the Tax Advantages?
What are the federal and state tax advantages?
Treasurer’s Top 5: Pierce County
This week, we travel to Pierce County. Here’s a look at the Top 5 people and businesses there with unclaimed assets. Do you see anyone on this list you know? If so, have check out www.wismissingmoney.com and search their name to make a claim. They can also call 855-375-CASH (2274)
Pierce County
Marlene Ann Janish
John Docter
Matthew and Marcia Palmer
Gladys and Eldon Oberg
Barbara And Richard Cooklock
FAQ Edvest: Who Can Open An Account?
FAQ Unclaimed Property: How Does Property Become Unclaimed?
HOW DOES PROPERTY BECOME UNCLAIMED?
Property becomes unclaimed or abandoned when there has been no owner activity in relation to the account for a period of 5 years and when the owner has not been able to be contacted by the holder of that asset. A holder may include a bank, savings institution, credit union, insurance company, business or utility company.
Wisconsin Saves Fun Tip: Keep Your Cool!
The Wisconsin Office of the State Treasurer proudly teams up with WWBIC (Wisconsin’s Womens Business Initiative Corporation) for “Wisconsin Saves.” This week, how you can become a saver courtesy of WWBIC.
Keep your cool! Run heat-generating appliances like ovens and dryers early in the morning or late at night. Or better yet, not at all: A clothesline will save the $100 a year it can cost to run your dryer. And ditch your incandescent for cooler CFL or LED light bulbs.
Money Matters: Renting An Apartment
Renting an Apartment
While it doesn’t offer any investment potential, renting an apartment is the wisest financial choice for many people. Some may be saving for a down payment on a home, others may be unable to afford buying a home. For families or individuals who move often or for those not interested in the maintenance and repair of a home, renting can offer freedom to relocate and some relief from the costs of home ownership. No matter why an individual is renting, it’s a great idea to know about the financial and legal aspects. Our friends at www.practicalmoneyskills.com walk us through each step.
Leases
A lease is a binding contract that lays out the conditions and responsibilities of a rental agreement, both for the owner and the renter. It stipulates the monthly rental price, payment due date, the length of the lease and what happens if one of you breaks the lease. A lease generally also outlines whether the renter or landlord will pay the utilities, whether pets are allowed, and any other restrictions and requirements the landlord wants to include.
Read your lease agreement very carefully before you sign it. You will be held accountable for knowing everything included in the lease. Also, keep a copy of the lease for your records. It may come in handy if you have a question about what you are or are not allowed to do.
Cosigning
If the landlord is not convinced that you will be able to make your payments, he or she may require you to get a cosigner. This is someone who will share financial responsibility for the lease. If for some reason you are unable to make the payments, the cosigner will then be responsible for making the payments.
Breaking a Lease
You should avoid breaking a lease by moving out before the end of the agreed term if at all possible. Each lease agreement has its own penalties for breaking the terms—some only require the payment of a penalty but others require the renter to continue paying rent until the apartment is re-rented. For this reason, it’s critical to check your lease and make sure you can handle the financial ramifications before you break your lease.
Treasurer’s Top 5: Outagamie County
Outagamie County Courthouse, Appleton
This week, we travel to Outagamie County. Here’s a look at the Top 5 people and businesses there with unclaimed assets. Do you see anyone on this list you know? If so, have check out www.wismissingmoney.com and search their name to make a claim. They can also call 855-375-CASH (2274)
Outagamie County
Leroy H Johnson
Shirley R Kane
AAL Bank and Trust
Rebecca and Frances Applegate Beck
Brenda Winter
Wisconsin Saves Fun Tip: Get Grilling!
The Wisconsin Office of the State Treasurer proudly teams up with WWBIC (Wisconsin’s Womens Business Initiative Corporation) for “Wisconsin Saves.” This week, how you can become a saver courtesy of WWBIC.
Cook outside.Using the stove or baking in the oven can create a lot of excess heat that has nowhere to go except in your house. Consider taking meal plans to the barbecue grill outside so that you can keep your cool inside.
Wisconsin Saves Fun Tip: How to Become a Saver (It’s EASY!)
The Wisconsin Office of the State Treasurer proudly teams up with WWBIC (Wisconsin’s Womens Business Initiative Corporation) for “Wisconsin Saves.” This week, how you can become a saver courtesy of WWBIC.
To start, simply CLICK HERE
Treasurer’s Top 5: Oconto County
This week, we travel to Oconto County. Here’s a look at the Top 5 people and businesses there with unclaimed assets. Do you see anyone on this list you know? If so, have check out www.wismissingmoney.com and search their name to make a claim. They can also call 855-375-CASH (2274)
Oconto County
Donald A Taylor
Lillian Ratter
Clifford J Brown
Rudolph Saffran
David A Mauer
FAQ Unclaimed Property: How Can I Avoid Having Unclaimed Property?
HOW CAN I AVOID HAVING UNCLAIMED PROPERTY?
Here are ten ways to ensure that your property is not turned over to our office:
1. Make sure that you update addresses with insurance companies, investor relations and utility providers.
2. Promptly cash all refund, rebate and dividend checks.
3. Respond to stock shareholder service requests for action.
4. Resolve insurance claims in full.
5. Identify co-owners or beneficiaries of financial and investment accounts.
6. Automaticwithdrawal for safe deposit box rental fees.
7. Purchase cashier’s checks and money order at finacial institutions where you have accounts.
8. Use store or vendor credits within 1 year.
9. Update financial/investment accounts following marriage, divorce, death of a spouse or name change.
10. Inventory type/location of financial assets and provide to trusted advisor/friend.
Treasurer’s Top 5: Monroe County
Sparta in Monroe County, “The Bicycling Capital of the World.”
This week, we travel to Monroe County. Here’s a look at the Top 5 people and businesses there with unclaimed assets. Do you see anyone on this list you know? If so, have check out www.wismissingmoney.com and search their name to make a claim. They can also call 855-375-CASH (2274)
Monroe County
Richard W. Johnson
PIC Investment Club
Quinn P Clark
Richard O and Mary Jane Hem
James McEssy
FAQ Edvest: Who Can Be the Beneficiary of an Account?
Wisconsin Saves Fun Tip: POWER Shop!
The Wisconsin Office of the State Treasurer proudly teams up with WWBIC (Wisconsin’s Womens Business Initiative Corporation) for “Wisconsin Saves.” Each week, we will share with you a savings courtesy of WWBIC.
Go grocery shopping while you are in a hurry! Maybe you need to go out in a couple of hours. Or your favorite show is going to be on TV after a couple of hours. Try to squeeze in the grocery trip in that intermediate time. Armed with your grocery list, you should be in-and-out very quickly with little time for meandering and getting tempted to buy things you don’t need. Plus if you “power shop” – you can burn calories!
FAQ Edvest: What Are My Investment Choices?
Money Matters: Saving for College
Saving For College
A college education is the ticket to the middle class in the United States. But it’s an expensive ticket, and the cost rises every year.
The overall annual cost for a college education ranges from about $7,000 for community college to $35,000 for a private school, according to US News & World Report.
Our friends at www.practicalmoneyskills.com help map out a college savings plan that works for you.
Start Early
Those are some scary numbers. But if you have the benefit of time, they’re not as bad as they seem. Here are some steps you can start taking today:
- Go over your monthly finances and find a little extra money you can put away. Even $50 or $100 can make a big difference. Opening an Edvest (Wisconsin’s College Savings plan) is a great start! www.edvest.com.
- Make a commitment to devote at least that amount each month, and to add to it as your income increases.
- Shop around for the best interest return you can get for your money.
High Return
Because the cost of college is rising faster than inflation, it’s smart to invest your savings to get a higher interest rate than a typical bank can offer. Consider putting your money into:
- Stocks
- Mutual funds
- Bonds
Help Paying for College
One important thing to keep in mind is that you won’t necessarily have to come up with the entire cost of college. All higher education institutions offer financial aid in the form of grants and loans. These are most often funded by the federal government. But there are also often aid offerings from the state and from the school itself. Be sure to look into all the options available.
Money Matters: Choosing A Health Plan
Health Care
For most of us, health care and prescriptions represent a big financial burden. When families and individuals experience financial strain, many cut back on health care services. But in the event of a serious illness or catastrophe, not being adequately covered can lead to financial disaster. Luckily, there are ways to ensure you find the best medical coverage for yourself and your family, as well as access to low-cost prescriptions and other services. Our friends at www.practicalmoneyskills.com share resources available; you just need to seek them out.
Choosing a Health Plan
With the countless options available and the complex terminology and paperwork, selecting a health care plan can be overwhelming. There are two basic types of plans: group plans (plans supported by an employer) and individual plans (plans not supported by an employer). Whether you have access to a plan supported by an employer or you need an individual plan, these tips for selecting a plan can help.
Before choosing a plan, ask yourself:
- How much can you afford to pay monthly for health care?
- Who requires coverage under your plan (just you, or a spouse or dependents as well)?
- How often do you, your spouse, and children visit the doctor?
- Do you want or need dental and vision coverage?
- Do you or your dependents have medical conditions that require specialized care?
- What would happen in the event of an accident or surgery?
- What is the maximum deductible you could afford to pay?
Knowing the answers to these questions can help you understand your health care needs and financial considerations. If you or a family member has a pre-existing health condition, it can be more difficult to get the health coverage you need. As part of the Affordable Care Plan passed in 2010, there is a Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan (PCIP) available. You can find out more about it here.
FAQ Edvest: What Are My Investment Choices?
Money Matters: Health Care Plans and Importance of Staying Healthy
Health Care
Health care and prescription coverage can represent a big financial burden. In the midst of financial hardship, it’s typically the first portion of a family budget to get slashed. If serious illness occurs, that could drive anyone to financial catastrophe. The past two weeks, we shared with you how to choose the best healtcare plan and dove into different types of Managed Health Care plans through our friends at www.practicalmoneyskills.com. This week, we stress the importance of staying healthy as part of your healthcare plan.
Staying Healthy
In addition to making life more enjoyable, living a healthy lifestyle is key to keeping healthcare costs down. People who live a healthy lifestyle tend to be more productive and better at handling stress, making them more valuable employees. Being fit can even save you on health insurance – many companies factor in height and weight when determining rates for consumers. Making healthy choices, like quitting smoking, can also help to keep your health care and medical insurance costs done. For tips on living healthfully on a budget, click here.
Money Matters: Common Managed Health Care Plans
Health Care
Health care and prescription coverage can represent a big financial burden. In the midst of financial hardship, it’s typically the first portion of a family budget to get slashed. If serious illness occurs, that could drive anyone to financial catastrophe. Last week, we shared with you how to choose the best healtcare plan through our friends at www.practicalmoneyskills.com. This week, we take a look specifically at Managed Health Care Plans.
Managed Care Health Plans
Here is a brief explanation of some of the most common Managed Care health plans:
- HMOS (Health Maintenance Organizations) are a type of health insurance plan where coverage is limited to doctors who work for or contract with the HMO. A primary care physician generally oversees your care and must refer you to specialists as needed.
- PPOs (Preferred Provider Networks) allow subscribers to use doctors, hospitals and providers outside of the network for a fee.
- High-Deductible Health Care Plans are high-deductible plans with low monthly premiums, designed to offer minimal day-to-day coverage but to protect you in the event of a catastrophe.
- Point of Service Plans combine some aspects of PPOs and HMOs. Like PPOs, they generally require users to choose a primary care physician, who can make referrals to other doctors inside or outside of the network.
- Fee-for-Service Plans reimburse you for a large percentage of what you pay out of pocket. You pay the bill for services; then your insurance company pays you back.
After choosing your plan and services, make sure to use them wisely. Most health insurers supply educational materials on preventive care such as quitting smoking, weight loss and chronic disease management. Many even provide financial incentives for completing treatment programs, getting immunizations and using generic drugs.
For information about managing health care in retirement, click here.
For more on the importance of health care for self-employed workers, click here.
Wisconsin State Treasury 
You must be logged in to post a comment.