Videos

Never make assumptions about your finances. Take the time to understand the rules and how they apply to your situation. Start planning early; concepts like the earnings cap can help you adjust your retirement strategy effectively. #FinancialPlanning #RetirementStrategy #EarlyPlanning #EarningsCap #KnowTheRules

Social Security aims to provide a basic income for retirees, not fully replace high incomes. The cap maintains this principle and limits the maximum benefit. Remember, the earnings cap increases annually to match inflation. #SocialSecurity #RetirementIncome #EarningsCap #FinancialPlanning #InflationAdjustments

Are you curious about why your Social Security benefits might be less than expected? In this episode of the Ask Ralph Show, host Ralph Estep Jr. dives into the Social Security earnings cap and its potential impact on your future benefits. Ralph discusses key points such as the 2024 earnings…

Are you considering gifting stocks to a loved one but worried about the tax implications? In this episode of the Ask Ralph Show, host Ralph Estep Jr. explains how you can give stocks without getting hit by hefty tax bills. Ralph discusses key points such as the annual gift tax…

Being a cheerful and wise giver means understanding the tax implications of your gifts. By exploring various gifting strategies, you can maximize the impact of your generosity and make the most of your resources. #CheerfulGiver #TaxWiseGifting #Generosity

Gifting appreciated stocks can save you from paying capital gains tax while giving the recipient the full market value. Remember, the recipient will be responsible for the capital gains tax. Plan wisely for mutual benefit! #StockGifting #CapitalGainsTax #TaxStrategy #FinancialPlanning #TaxEfficiency

Transferring ownership of stocks can be a generous act, but it's important to understand the tax implications. For 2024, you can gift up to $17,000 per person per year without triggering gift tax. Keep an eye on annual adjustments for inflation! #StockGifting #TaxPlanning #FinancialWisdom #GiftTaxExclusion #GenerosityAndTaxes

Are you struggling with rebuilding your credit after a financial crisis? In this episode of the Ask Ralph Show, host Ralph Estep Jr. dives deep into practical and unconventional methods to rebuild your credit. Ralph discusses essential steps such as checking your credit report, making timely payments, and keeping credit…

Self-lender programs let you build your credit history while saving money. By lending to yourself and repaying over time, you save and improve your credit score as payments are reported to credit bureaus. Be sure to research and read reviews to find the best option. #CreditBuilding #SelfLender #FinancialTips #CreditScore #PersonalFinance

Building credit is a journey that demands patience and a shift in financial habits. Start by listing all your debts and crafting a manageable repayment plan. Setting up automatic payments for your bills ensures you get all the due dates, regardless of your current financial situation. #CreditBuilding #FinancialHabits #DebtRepayment #AutomaticPayments…

Rebuilding credit goes beyond numbers—it's about restoring trust with lenders, yourself, and God. It’s a journey of demonstrating responsibility with the resources you’re given. If you need personalized guidance, schedule a consultation with me at askralphpodcast.com/store to discuss improving your financial situation. #CreditRebuilding #FinancialCounseling #Trust #Responsibility #PersonalFinance

Instead of reaching for your phone first thing in the morning, spend time in prayer and Bible study. This sets a positive tone for your day and helps you prioritize what truly matters. Using a paper Bible or devotional book can prevent distractions and keep you focused on spiritual growth.…

Are you struggling with balancing your social media use with your faith and family time? In this episode of the Ask Ralph Show, host Ralph Estep Jr. dives deep into the digital dilemma of social media addiction. He discusses practical strategies for small business owners to use social media effectively…

Considering a virtual assistant or social media manager could be a game-changer for your business. This can free up your time while maintaining your vital online presence. I recently enlisted the help of a production team, which has significantly balanced my show duties with my accounting practice, allowing me to…

Setting clear objectives for your social media use is crucial for success. Whether you're aiming to increase brand awareness, drive sales, or provide stellar customer service, having specific goals will keep you focused and on track. Remember, what gets measured gets done. So, outline your plan, set your goals, and…

Think scholarships are only for straight-A students or superstar athletes? Think again! There are scholarships for everything from community service to special hobbies. Encourage your kids to start a scholarship search journal to track eligibility, deadlines, and application requirements. Free money for college is out there! #ScholarshipSearch #CollegeFunding #FreeMoney #Education…

Are you worried about how to fund your children's college education? Feeling overwhelmed by the financial burden and unsure how to manage it from a Christian perspective? In this episode of the Ask Ralph Show, host Ralph Estep Jr. dives deep into the world of college financing. He explains various…

Before considering private loans, exhaust all federal loan options—they generally have more favorable terms and better repayment options. Here's a creative approach: have your child take out the loans in their name, and agree to help pay them off if they maintain a certain GPA or graduate within a specific…

Paying for college is a marathon, not a sprint. Start planning early, be creative, and trust in God's provision. This week, sit down with your high school student and create a scholarship search plan. Commit to finding and applying for at least one scholarship a week. It's measurable, actionable, and…

When facing financial troubles, remember to cry out to God and focus on your true wealth in Christ. Be a good steward of what you have, and remember the source of your wealth in times of blessing. Stay humble, use your resources wisely, and be generous. Most importantly, share your…

Did you know that you can use your faith to navigate financial hardship and uncertainty? Ever wondered how you can praise God and give Him glory during times of financial blessing? In this episode of the Ask Ralph Show, host Ralph Estep Jr. explores how to use faith to thrive…

Even in times of scarcity, we're called to manage our resources wisely. This may involve creating a strict budget, finding additional income sources, or making tough decisions about expenses. Don't hesitate to seek financial counseling or assistance from your church community. Remember, there's no shame in asking for help—it's what…

In times of financial hardship, it's easy to feel like we're losing everything. But no economic downturn can touch our true wealth when our identity is in Christ, and our treasures are in heaven. Remember, where your treasure is, your heart will also be there. #Faith #SpiritualWealth #TrueRiches #HeavenlyTreasures

Retirement planning isn't just about securing our own future; it's about ensuring we can continue to bless others and further God's Kingdom. With diligent planning and wise resource management, we can remain financially stable and capable of giving and serving well into our retirement. #RetirementPlanning #LifelongGiving #FaithfulStewardship #ServingOthers