Higher Earning

When it comes to personal finance, especially homeownership, rules of thumb can serve as useful guidelines to help you make informed decisions. One of the most commonly referenced in housing and mortgage budgeting is the 30% rule. But what exactly does this rule entail, where did it come from, and how applicable is it in today’s housing market? Let’s dive into what the 30% rule is, how it’s used in budgeting for a home, and whether it still holds up in modern financial planning. What Is the 30% Rule? The 30% rule states that you should spend no more than 30% of your gross monthly income on housing expenses. These expenses typically include: Mortgage principal and interest Property taxes Homeowner’s insurance (Sometimes) Homeowners Association (HOA) fees or mortgage insurance For renters, the rule applies to rent instead of mortgage payments. The goal is to ensure that you don’t become “house poor” — a situation where the majority of your income goes toward housing costs, leaving little...

If you’ve ever stared at your computer at 3:47 PM and wondered, “Is this all there is?”—you’re not alone. The good news? You’re likely sitting on a goldmine of skills you’ve picked up from your 9-5. What if you could leverage those very talents to build a profitable side hustle? Whether you’re chasing financial freedom, creative fulfillment, or simply a backup plan, turning your day job expertise into extra income is more doable than you think. Here’s how to bridge the gap between your current job and your next income stream. 1.  Audit Your Skill Set Start by listing out what you do every day. Don’t just think about your job title—focus on what you actually do. Ask yourself: What problems do I solve? What software or tools am I proficient in? What do colleagues always ask me for help with? What do I do faster or better than most? 💡 Example: A customer service rep likely has stellar communication skills, knows how to handle tough people, and may be a pro at using CRMs. That’s a gre...

In today’s fast-paced digital economy, launching an online store has never been easier. Among the most trusted and user-friendly platforms in the world of eCommerce is Shopify . Whether you’re a small business owner, an established brand, or just starting out, Shopify offers a complete solution to help you build, grow, and manage your online store with ease. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Shopify a top choice for entrepreneurs around the globe, and why you might want to consider it for your next eCommerce venture. What is  Shopify ? Shopify is a cloud-based eCommerce platform that allows individuals and businesses to create their own online stores to sell products. It supports both physical and digital goods, with tools that help manage inventory, track sales, accept payments, and customize the customer shopping experience. Launched in 2006, Shopify has grown into one of the most popular eCommerce platforms, powering over a million businesses worldwide. Its scalable inf...

In 2025, letting your money sit in a traditional savings account is the financial equivalent of leaving it in a drawer collecting dust. If you’re serious about building wealth and maximizing every dollar, a high-yield savings account (HYSA) is the smart choice. With interest rates now soaring past 4% and even 5%, there’s no excuse not to put your money to work. Below are 10 of the best high-yield savings accounts you can open today. These accounts offer exceptional APYs, no or low fees, and easy online access, making it simple to save more, faster. 1.  Poppy Bank High-Yield Savings  –  5.50% APY Why it stands out: Poppy Bank leads the pack with a whopping 5.50% APY, no monthly maintenance fees, and no required minimum balance. It’s a rare combination of high return and low hassle. APY: 5.50% Minimum balance: None Fees: None Persuasive Take: Want to earn the highest possible return on your savings without jumping through hoops? Poppy Bank is your top choice. 2.  Varo...

Economic recessions and market downturns are inevitable. They’re part of the natural cycle of economies worldwide. Whether it’s due to geopolitical tension, rising interest rates, or global health crises, financial slowdowns tend to spark anxiety, particularly when it comes to personal savings and investments. The good news is that there are practical, time-tested strategies to protect your financial future during uncertain times. Here’s how to recession-proof your money and come out stronger on the other side. 1.  Start With a Solid Emergency Fund Before diving into complex investment strategies, make sure your financial foundation is secure. That means having an emergency fund that can cover 3 to 6 months’ worth of living expenses. In a recession, job losses and income disruptions are more common. Your emergency fund should be easily accessible—preferably in a high-yield savings account or a money market account—so you don’t have to liquidate long-term investments during a marke...

In the digital age, affiliate marketing has become one of the most popular ways to generate passive income online. Whether you’re a blogger, content creator, or just someone looking for a side hustle, affiliate marketing offers a low-risk, high-reward opportunity to earn money by promoting products and services you believe in. This comprehensive guide will walk you through what affiliate marketing is, how to get started, and the key strategies to succeed. What Is Affiliate Marketing? Affiliate marketing is a performance-based marketing strategy where individuals (affiliates) promote a company’s products or services and earn a commission for every sale or action generated through their referral link. Here’s how it works in simple terms: You join an affiliate program. You receive a unique affiliate link. You promote that link through your content. When someone clicks your link and makes a purchase, you earn a commission. Affiliate marketing benefits all parties involved: The merchant gai...

When you’re stuck between paychecks and unexpected expenses arise, a little financial cushion can go a long way. Fortunately, there are several reputable apps designed specifically to help you borrow money until payday. These apps offer features like instant cash advances, low or no fees, and tools to improve your financial wellness. Here’s a roundup of the top payday advance apps in 2025: 1.  Earnin Best for: No-fee advances Advance amount: Up to $750 per pay period Key features: No interest or mandatory fees (optional tips) Lightning Speed option for instant transfers Balance Shield alerts to avoid overdrafts Pros: No credit check, fast transfers Cons: Requires consistent direct deposit 2.  Brigit Best for: Budgeting tools + cash advance Advance amount: Up to $250 Key features: Automatic advances to prevent overdrafts Credit monitoring and identity theft protection Smart budgeting tools Pros: Helps improve financial habits Cons: Requires a paid subscription ($9.99/month) 3....