Latina on a Mission

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of eSmart Tax. All opinions are 100% mine.

As a frugal Latina, I try to maximize my savings whenever possible. One way, I do so is by filing my taxes online.  

Over the years, filing online has become much easier. Several reasons why I prefer filing online versus going into a brick and mortar office are:

• Its cheaper. In fact, this year, everyone in the United States can file their federal taxes for FREE at www.eSmartTax.com
• Questions and prompts are provided to maximize the filers’ tax savings.
• You can file while the kids are asleep and you’re in your pajamas
• No waiting for a so called “tax professional” to review your paperwork. I truly believe that these so- called professionals from certain unnamed pop-up offices do not know enough or care enough about ME to maximize my savings. In fact, a few years back I had to pay for an amendment to recoup monies owed that the “tax professional” missed. I was eventually reimbursed  after complaining in person, by mail and by phone.
• You can receive your money quicker when filing online.

eSmartTax.com, a premier online tax preparation service powered by Liberty Tax Service, offers two ways to file for free this year: the always-free Basic edition and the free Deluxe edition for persons with the last name Johnson only available at www.IamAJohnson.com

Johnsons file free because there are 2,121,489 Johnsons in America, making it the second most popular name in the nation! Coincidentally, it’s also the last name of eSmart’s new spokesperson, Daryl Johnson, an eSmart customer from Richmond, Virginia. The last name is representative of the everyday taxpayer, someone who wants to file their return with ease and accuracy while generating the biggest refund they deserve, like you and I!

Knowing this why would you choose to pay more elsewhere? Go to www.eSmartTax.com!

The iconic Duane Reade will be no more in New York City. It is going by the wayside like Woolworth, Caldor, and many others before it.

Walgreens announced today that it is buying Duane Reade. The deal is valued at over $1 billion dollars, including debt. According to Market Watch, the deal should be completed by August 31.

Walgreens is the largest drugstore within the United States while Duane Reade is the largest drugstore in New York. For the time being, it appears that the purchase will not change the names of either drugstore. Walgreens also claims that it will not immediately fire any upper management but has not taken a stance on lower level employees.

Duane Reade, with approximately 70 stores in New York City metro area, will extend Walgreens reach but the question is will it be good for consumers like you and I?

Weigh In! What do you think?

While at Blissdom, I had the opportunity to see the Hallmark Kids Collection. I loved them!

My boys’ love receiving cards, whether by they’re sent by mail, hidden in their backpacks, or placed under their pillows. I use them to plan special “Mom /Son Dates”, to say “I love you”, or just to make them smile.

When they’ve had bad days, a card can make them laugh. When they’re sad, a card can cheer them up. When they’ve exceeded my expectations, those cards let them know how proud I am!  The list is endless and Hallmark cards have one for almost every occasion, which I love!

I’m excited to say that Hallmark is giving you ONE free card from their Hallmark Kids Collection. The free card can be picked up in stores and is valid until 3/14/2010.

Click HERE for details and go make a child’s day!

I love UPrinting! They have the perfect products to promote your business, blog or etsy shop. They are not limited to the ordinary means of promotion, they have approximately 25 innovative ways to promote your business including stickers and labels!

While at Blissdom, I noted several companies used stickers. They didn’t limit themselves to business cards. They took the extra step to promote  themselves, making sure they stood out from the crowd.

I’m excited to announce that UPrinting is giving  ONE of my readers the following:

• 250 Custom Stickers or Label Printing
• Sizes: 2 x 3.5,  2 x 4,  or 3 x 3
• Paper: 70lb Label Matte
• Specifications: Full color front, blank back
• 4 Business Day printing
• FREE UPS Ground Shipping

Stickers and labels are not just limited to companies, blogs and etsy shops. They can be used for :

• Wedding invitations
• Birthday stickers to include in children’s goody bags
• Labels for envelopes
• Stickers on gifts or wrapping

The options are only limited by your imagination!

Ready to win your own set of stickers or labels? Read on!

MANDATORY ENTRY- YOU MUST DO THIS BEFORE YOU CAN RECEIVE ANY EXTRA ENTRIES:

Tell me whether you would select Custom Stickers or Label Printing and what you plan to do with them!

EXTRA ENTRIES:

1. Subscribe, follow my blog and/or fan my Facebook page for 1 entry EACH. If you’re already do, let me know! NOTE: Unvalidated e-mails will be disqualified.

2. Follow @MsLatina on Twitter and tweet about the giveaway, stating the below. Provide me with the tweet url in a comment. One tweet per day till the giveaway ends, so go ahead tweet away! 

Enter 2 win 250 UPrinting Stickers or Labels http://tiny.cc/GW16 (Ends 2/28) #GIVEAWAY #MsLatina

3. Blog about the giveaway, linking back to this post, and provide me with the url for 5 extra entries.

4. Add my giveaway to any blog giveaway linky. Leave the linky url in a comment. Each linky add-on gives you  2 extra entry!

5. Leave a comment on a non-giveaway related post for 5 extra entries. Note the post in your comment and don’t forget to enter each in a separate comment! Wouldn’t want you to miss an entry!

6. Share this post and/or another post you enjoyed using any ”Share and Enjoy” submission  (Example: Digg, Facebook, Technorati, MySpace, Stumble Upon, etc.).  Each post shared gives you 5 extra entries. Just let me know which post you shared and your username, if applicable!

7. Enter any other giveaway that expires AFTER 2/14/2010 for 3 extra entries. Each additional giveaway entered that expires AFTER 2/14/2010 gives you 3 extra entries.

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GIVEAWAY ENDS February  28, 2010 at 11:59 P.M. EST

Open to US  Residents

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As always, I will use random.org to select the winner. The winner will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be selected. Also, don’t forget, in order for random.org to count all of your entries a separate comment must be entered for each item that is completed. Random.org will not count it otherwise!

Disclosure: I am receiving the same product given. No other compensation was given and the opinions in this post are mine.

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Allison Maslan, author of “Blast Off!”. All opinions are 100% mine.

I was recently given the opportunity to learn more about Allison Maslan, the author of  Blast Off!: The Surefire Success Plan to Launch Your Dreams into Reality, available on Amazon. I have to admit I was impressed! In her early twenties, Allison was Co-Founder and Co-Director of the Barali Group, a full-service advertising and public relations firm. The companies client list included Supercuts, Allstate Insurance, Merrill Lynch, Charlotte Russe and MCI. She also co-owned  a hair salon and was a successful real estate investor, managing several properties and teaching others how to do the same. She currently speaks at business and inspirational seminars, inspiring and motivating others to reach higher levels in their own career and personal life.

Those unable to attend her speaking engagements, can purchase Allison’s book as of  January 19th, 2010 on Amazon, Borders, Barnes and Noble websites for $24. It can also be purchased  in all other major bookstores, as well as online at Amazon.com for less than the brick and mortar price. At the time of posting, the book had received fifteen 5 star reviews and was selling for $16.47. It was also eligible for free shipping with Amazon Prime. 

Knowing that another woman has accomplished so much in her short life, inspires me to strive for higher levels within my own life! 

I’m excited to say that I am in Nashville, Tennesse at Blissdom, with my sons’ Karl of Teen On Da Rise and Andrew of Andrew’s Voice! It was a last minute decision. I won a Blissdom ticket on Twitter from DeVries PR this past Monday, booked our flight and hotel on Tuesday and flew out on Wednesday!

The Opryland Hotel is beautiful. It has 2,881 stylish guest rooms, including 174  suites. It also has nine acres of indoor gardens, cascading waterfalls and an indoor river with its own Delta flatboat! I plan on taking some pictures and videos during our stay to share with you.

While here I will also have the opportunity to meet bloggers and twitter users that I follow and converse with on a regular basis. I plan to catch up with Modern Mami, Justice Fergie, Cuponeando,  Carrie and TheChattyMomma, as well as a slew of others! I just hope I have the time!

I love, love, love swagbucks! Yes, I know I’ve stated this a number of times but can you blame me?! Its a great way to get some wonderful swag (products/gift cards/cash and more!) by searching the Internet.  Click HERE to read my previous post which explains it further.

I recently redeemed my swagbucks for 2 sets of the below Corelle Livingware 16-Piece Dinnerware Set.

The set currently sells for $35.95 and ships for free with Amazon Prime. Two sets including tax cost $78.28. However, I redeemed my swagbucks for Amazon gift cards, total $60, and paid only $18.28! When I saw these I thought they were so festive and cheery, I couldn’t resist. They are also chip resistant, which is always needed with kids, as well as dishwasher, oven and microwave safe! 

Swagbucks has a limit of 5 orders per prize each calendar month, as a result I could not redeem more swagbucks.  However, if I would have waited till February, I would have gotten them for FREE!

If you haven’t joined already, you can join by clicking HERE or by clicking on the button below. By using this link, you will get 3 swagbucks to start you off. You’ll also support Latina On a Mission, since I will earn swagbucks when you do as well (up to 100).    

So go ahead, collect that swag, just make sure you come back and share some pictures!

You can find more ways to earn by reading my previous post  HERE.

Recently I posted several ways to promote one’s blog.  See previous post HERE. Included in the post was the use of Entrecards. Since I have never used Entrecards myself, Mommy Kennedy of  The Frugal Kennedys was kind enough to write us a guest post!

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I won’t claim to be an expert on Entrecard (pronounced “entree” card); however, I will share with you what I have learned about Entrecard as I have been using it since Summer of last year and did a lot of research writing this post.

I was very pleased when Ms. Latina, of Latina on a Mission, asked me to write a guest post about it.

What is Entrecard?

• Entrecard is a FREE (I love freebies!) blogging network for blog owners
• Create a 125×125 picture logo for your site (helpful sites are here)
• You put a widget on your site
• You earn virtual credits (ECs for short) when you visit and drop cards on other sites with the widget (when logged in to EC, the “Get one” words above will read “Drop”) and you also earn credits when another member advertised on your site.
• You drop your card by clicking “Drop” on the EC widget on other sites who are EC members
• You use these ECs to purchase advertising on other sites in the network by clicking “Advertise” when in the “Campaign” mode or on the site “Details” page

Why use Entrecard?

• It’s a form of FREE advertising
• They are currently offering 200 FREE credits to new members so you can advertise on other sites right away!
• Increases traffic to your site (this increases the chances of more clicks on other ads, more followers, improved search engine ranking & more attraction from potential new sponsors)
• You can buy & sell ECs for real money
• Other bloggers are already willing to network with you
• You can add a “Recent Droppers” widget
• It’s a GREAT way to find other blogs

Helpful Tips

• Be active in the EC Community by dropping your EC card
• If you see the “Get One” message instead of “Drop” on EC widgets then you are not properly logged in
• You can only drop one card per day per blog

Entrecard Etiquette

• Make your best effort to read the blog and possibly leave a comment
• Try to visit the blogs and drop your card after they drop theirs

To Sign Up

• Go directly here! And collect 200 ECs for being a new member!   

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I love the fact that Entrecards are free, but I’m not surprised since Mommy Kennedy always has a knack for finding good deals!  

Please make sure to pass by Mommy Kennedy’s blog by clicking on the below button and thanking her for explaining their use. While you’re there,  check out her Giveaways Galore Page!

During the beginning of the month, we discussed “Your Blog and You”. In said post, we noted how your blog is an extension of you, your ideas and/or products. Once you are confident that your blog represents you, it is time to market your blog.

There are many ways to market your blog, both online and off. In fact, both are necessary if you wish to grow your subscribers and stats (blog ranking). I’ve listed a few below that I’ve found to be helpful or have seen others use to promote themselves.

Online

• Social Media (i.e. Twitter, Facebook, MySpace, Bebo)

Social media is a great way to connect and build relationships with others. I find each site reaches a different audience, for example MySpace is great with the individuals interested in entertainment, Facebook is huge with Moms, Twitter is the best way to reach savvy consumers, companies, and individuals with higher incomes, while Bebo appeals to the younger crowd).

• Entrecards

Join Entrecards. Entrecards uses a credit system called EC.  The more active you are within the Entrecard community the more EC points you receive.   EC points can than be redeemed for advertisements on other blogs, or requests for comments and/or subscribers; thereby raising your stats.

• Blogroll

Switch links with other bloggers within your niche. This promotes your blog with their readers/subscribers.

• Blog Directories 

Join blog directories within your niche. I’ve joined several that have worked wonders for me, including but not limited to Blogadera and The Mommy Blogger Directory.

• Youtube

Youtube helps you reach an audience who may not normally read blogs. I find this is especially beneficial for review blogs.

• Social bookmarking sites (i.e. Digg, Stumble Upon, Technorati) 

Submit your posts to social bookmarking sites. By joining and submitting your posts on these sites, it puts your posts before readers you may not have had an opportunity to reach otherwise.

• Blogs within your niche 

Leave intelligent comments on blogs within your niche, with a link back to your website. Leaving a link, will give other readers of that blog an opportunity to visit your blog!   

• Guest posts

Guests posts are a wonderful way to show another blogger’s audience your expertise. Carolyn Gonzalez of  Carolyn in Carolina, was one of my first guest bloggers. Her wit and writing style went over well with my readers and was a huge success! See Carolyn’s post HERE. I’ve also had the opportunity to write a guest post for Jaime Farkas of For His Glory who I admire greatly. My guest post can be seen HERE. I would like to note that neither of these guest posts were instigated as a way to promote our blogs, however, because they were such great fits they did just that!

Offline

• Printed Media

Business Cards, Postcards, Brochures are wonderful marketing tools.

NOTE: Enter my Business card giveaway HERE (Ends 1/20) or my Postcard giveaway HERE (Ends 1/25 ) to get yourself started!

• Community Functions

As a Mommy Blogger, I promote myself at my sons’ schools, afterschools/daycares, and neighborhood gatherings since it brings me into contact with my niche, other trendy Moms. Knowing your niche, allows you to promote yourself offline at community functions.  

• Blog/Networking Events

Blog events are a great place to network and promote your blog! Some that I like and hope to attend this year are BlogHer and Blogalicious.

• Friends/Family

 My family and friends are my biggest cheerleaders! My Mom reads my blog everyday (Hola Mami!), as do most of my friends. Not only do they read but they offer constructive criticism, giving me a double bang for my buck!

I think this is a good starting point yet am sure there are a slew of other ways to promote your blog that I’ve missed. If you’ve done something not noted here, please share your ideas in a comment below.  We’ll love to hear about it! 

In the end, remember it’s important to market your blog, if you want to monetize it. Sponsors and advertisers review a blog’s reach when considering a blog for giveaways, sponsorship and/or advertising. With that in mind, promote yourself, just don’t forget to enjoy the connections along the way!

As promised, we are going to focus on how to monetize your blog in January.

One of the first lessons you must learn is that your blog is your business. It is a reflection of you, whatever YOU is. Whether you are a review blogger, a Mom blogger, an Etsy owner, or a small business, the only limit that can be placed on your blog, are the limits you place on it yourself.

Envision your blog, not as it is today, but where you see it one year from now, five years from now or even ten years from now. You must be able to see it as how you want it to be, not how it is, before you can actually attain it.

I use a vision board as my inspiration. It reminds me of my goals and aspirations. Below is a picture of my first picture board. Sorry for the poor quality, for some reason I couldn’t get a clearer picture.

The board shows just a fraction of how I see my blog and myself.  It’s changed as I, and my blog, have grown, I’ve let go of some ideas and added others. By doing so, its helped me keep my focus on what I want out of my blog. Its a powerful motivational tool, a visual reminder of what can be, because a dream cannot be realized if it cannot be visualized.

Surround yourself with powerful and uplifting reminders of all that you want your blog to be! It all begins with a step, take yours today.

This year I pledge to use coupons whenever I shop, whether its groceries, household necessities, entertainment, dining or clothes! As noted in my previous post, click HERE, coupons helped me stay on budget last year. I also want to use the cha-ching that I can save with coupons to buy me some new pair of jeans! In order to do that I will print my coupons at the beginning of the month and post my finds on my blog during the beginning of the month. Below are the coupons I think are worth printing. They have many other coupons on their site that should save you quite a bit of money during your food shopping. Of course, don’t just go by my word, check out their coupons yourselves by clicking HERE.  

• $5 off at Rite Aid
• $1 off GE Compact Flouresant Lights (Energy Saving Bulbs!)
• $1 off L’Oreal Eye Products 
• $1 off L’Oreal Lip Products
• $1 off L’Oreal Skincare Products
• $2 off L’Oreal Face Products
• $2 off L’Oreal Hair Color
• $2.50 off John Freida Hair Products
• $1.00 Off Opti-Free
• $2 off TheraFlu

  Enjoy and Happy Saving!

Hola! / Hello!

There are many things exciting happening on “Latina On a Mission” during 2010. I’ve been trying to update my blog during the evenings, changing and rearranging parts of it as I go along.

Just wanted to mention a few things.

1. The search tab can now be found on the upper right hand side of the  blog.

2. I’ve updated my “About Me” page. Please take the time to check it out and give me your feedback.

3. I now offer Advertising for bloggers, Etsy shops, and businesses. During the month of January, I will offer a 50% off discount!

The normal rates are as follows for a 125×125 button on the right hand sidebar:  

• $2 per day
• $12 per week

Other sizes are available as noted on my Advertise page.  Hurry and get your slots in while the rates are 50% OFF in January!

Note: If you do not have an advertising button, for $15,  I can create a button for you. Feel free to contact me via e-mail at admin@latinaonamission.com to discuss.

4. As part of my disclosure, I am working on creating a list of my affiliates. It should be completed by mid-January. Until then, I will note my affiliations on the bottom of the posts.

5. In order to help other bloggers, I will create several posts in January letting you know how I monetize my blog. If you’re a non-blogger this may entice you to become a blogger!

Cuidate! / Take care!

This year the holidays felt like they came out of nowhere, as I noted in my previous post. Normally, I’m better prepared and have my shopping done by October. Yet even though I dilly dallied, I was still able to save money because I planned for it during the year by taking some extra steps.

If you’re asking, “How did she do it?”, then you asked the right question! Listed below are a few ways that helped me make some extra money and save this year. You can still do these steps to take advantage of the after holiday sales or just to prepare for next year!

1. I joined Swagbucks, an online search engine that rewards you for using their service by giving you virtual money called “swag bucks”. You can make between $2-20 swag bucks per day by using their search engine twice a day. I find that using their search engine in the morning and in the evening nets me the most bucks. These bucks can then be used to purchase items in the Swag Store. I prefer their gift cards (Amazon, RedEnvelope, Alice, Starbucks, iTunes, Barnes & Noble), although the FREE cash is enticing! In fact, during the holidays I redeemed my swag bucks for a few $5 Amazon gift cards, which cost me 45 swagbucks each, and a few $5 RedEnvelope gift cards, which were on sale for 20 Swagbucks each. However,  I know of others who trade in their swag bucks for T-shirts, magazines, CDs, DVDs, electronics and more! 

This year I redeemed enough swag bucks to get $35 in Amazon e-gift cards and $20 in RedEnvelope e-gift cards. This allowed me to get THREE gifts without spending a dime! I plan to get a few more giftcards now that the after holiday sales are starting to prepare myself for Valentine’s Day.

You can join Swagbucks by using my link and earn 3 swag bucks for signing up. When you sign up under my link, you also support ”Latina On a Mission” because I will earn swag bucks too so thank you!  Click HERE to join.

2. I conducted a few mystery shops during the months of November and December. Several submit payment directly to my paypal account, while others send checks. I used these funds to get my sons’ winter clothes at Old Navy, taking advantage of their sales.

I’ve also signed up for a few shops this week and later on in January that will not pay me much up front but will reimburse me for my out of pocket expenses. My faves are:

• Lens Crafter Shops- up to $120 reimbursement for eyewear. Note, you can use your insurance card to pay for the glasses and they will still reimburse you for the glasses which means you can actually make $120 for this shop if you have coverage! They also do Pearle Vision and several others.  If you’re interested in the eyewear shops, shoot me an e-mail at admin@latinaonamission.com and I’ll send you a referral!
• Movie Shops- reimbursement for 1 ticket, 1 icee, and 1 popcorn, $7-11 to complete the shop
• Restaurant Shops - up to $50+ reimbursement for lunch or $80+ for dinner
• Bowling Shops- up to $100 reimbursement in NYC for 2 people and $15 for completing the shop

I try to select the ones that I would have paid for anyway so even though I am not receiving a huge payment for completing the shop, I am getting reimbursed for an item I would have purchased anyway; thereby cutting my yearly expenses! Click for a list of Mystery Shopper sites.

3. I joined Survey Savvy, an accredited Better Business Bureau company. This year, I did not join as many surveys as I could have since I was a bit overwhelmed at work. Yet I still earned a $100 American Express gift card,  $30 in Amazon credit, and about $2 dollars in referrals (50¢ per referral).  It may sound like a paltry sum but I was able to use it to purchase 4 gifts by keeping an eye out for sales and using coupons!  Click HERE to join.

4. I use coupons for anything and everything! I know some people who are still a little embarrassed to use coupons, however, its become chic to be cheap! Coupons are the New York Black! If you haven’t checked out coupons.com, I highly suggest you do so by clicking HERE. You can also download coupons whenever you need any by going to my blog and clicking on the link found on the right-hand sidebar that states: New coupons every month for Rite-Aid, Walgreens, groceries, necessities, medicine, toys and more! They currently have a few great coupons to help you bring in the New Year. I noted the a few I thought were worthwhile below.

• John Frieda Luxurious Volume Products - Save $2.50
• Garnier Nutritionista Skin Renew Anti-Puff  Eye Roller- Save $2 (I use this one religiously for puffy eyes!)
• Little Debbies- Save 75¢
• Pillsbury- Save $1 on two
• General Mills Cereal- Save 75¢
• Malt O Meal Cereals- Save 75¢
• Dr. Scholls Insoles- Save $2 (I love these!)
• Alka Seltzer- Save $1 and  your head after the New Year’s festivities with this one!
• Garnier Nutritioniste Skin Renew Anti-Puff Eye Roller- Save $2 and look Latinalicious! (I LOVE this eye roller and use it myself!)

5. Enter giveaways! Giveaways are a great way to try out a new product without having to spend the money beforehand. I’ve joined a few this year and am glad I did. I’ve won toiletries, books, toys/clothes for the boys, and even a N-Fini Shapewear Strapless Dress Girdle, valued at $129.95! Not only did I win, but so did the companies! Why? Because I was so happy with the products I received that I couldn’t stop raving to my friends, co-workers and family. I know a few of them went out and brought the same products on my recommendations and I am happy they did. I have to admit I also purchased a few more myself!  You can join any of my giveaways shown on the right hand side of my blog or you can join other bloggers’ giveaways by clicking HERE.

Happy savings!

If you’re on unemployment, K-Mart wants to help you with a new program called Kmart Smart Assist Savings Program for the Unemployed. Enrollment in the program gives the unemployed a 20% discount on over 1,500 grocery and drugstore products for up to six months.

To take advantage of this program, register online and print your re-usable savings card by clicking HERE. You can also call 1-866-KMART-4U (1-866-562-7848) to find out more information about the Smart Assist Program.

While you’re at it join their FREE Shop Your Way Rewards Program, open to EVERYONE, to receive 1% back on ALL your purchases at Kmart and Sears stores or online, including MyGofer.com. Members also get exclusive members-only benefits, including freebies! You can sign up online by clicking HERE or at select stores.

Happy Savings!

With the holidays right around the corner, give gifts that keep on giving and teaching financial skills, without breaking YOUR own budget! Below are a few that I thought were worth noting.

Don’t forget you can redeem your Swagbucks for Amazon credit and apply those funds to some of the below items, getting many for FREE! If you are not signed up for Swagbucks you can sign up by clicking HERE and get 3 Swagbucks to start you off. Read my previous post HERE for more info on how to earn Swagbucks for FREE.

Books:

• Where Are the Customers’ Yachts: or A Good Hard Look at Wall Street (Wiley Investment Classics)Recommended by money.com as a must have to learn how Wall Street functions. Understanding the basics will make it easier to apply it to your own finances. Price: $13.57, Eligible for free S&H with Amazon Prime
• Who Moved My Cheese?: An Amazing Way to Deal with Change in Your Work and in Your Life I read this book last year and highly recommend it. It uses a wonderful parable of a mouse and its cheese to highlight the “changes”  required to excel in life and at work. Price: $9.50, Eligible for free S&H with Amazon Prime

Games:

These old school board games teach their players that their choices affect their finances and life. Best of all, they can be used as a springboard to deeper conversations about relationships, responsibilities and budgeting. It may be sneaky but it works!

• MonopolyPrice: $9.99, Eligible for free S&H with Amazon Prime
• Game of LifePrice: $7.99, Eligible for free S&H with Amazon Prime

Organization:

• File Folders & Accessories Get them something stylish, without breaking your budget, and motivate them to organize those receipts and coupons! Bonus: If you spend more than $25, you can get a Silver Plate Folding Frame, which is normally priced at $18.95 for FREE. Click HERE for details.

Bonds

• I Bonds Offering 3.36% through April 30, 2010. New rates will be posted May 1, 2010. Perfect as the gift that keeps on giving! Minimum Purchase Price: $50 for a $50 I Bond when purchasing paper bond certificates OR $25 for a $25 I bond when purchased electronically via TreasuryDirect
• EE Bonds Currently 1.20% fixed, however, it is exempt from state taxes and is tax free when used for educational purposes. Minimum Purchase Price: $25 for a $50 EE Bond when purchasing paper bond certificates OR $25 for a $25 EE bond when purchased electronically via TreasuryDirect

Stocks:

• Buy one stock as a gift. NOTE: Get $15 off your purchase if you sign up for their monthly newsletter. Click HERE
• Buy one stock with Kit that explains investing and stocks and receive $20 off your order thru 12/15. Click HERE

Happy Shopping!

UPDATE: Amazon currently has the Monopoly Family Championship on sale for $9.99 with FREE S&H with Amazon Prime. It was originally priced at $24.99 for a savings of $17!

Image courtesy of Platanos and Collard Greens

Between the Lines Productions is casting the NYC and national touring productions of Platanos and Collard Greens. They will hold an open casting call for non union members this weekend. Rehearsals would begin immediately thereafter in New York City. The production will run in NYC, and will also have various tour dates.  Below are the time and dates.

• Date: Saturday, December 12th, 2009
• Time: 2pm to 6pm
• Address: Roy Arias Studios at 300 W. 43rd Street (between 8th and 9th Avenues) Room 500A.
• Required: A  headshot and resume. Sides will be distributed at the audition. Non Union. Stipend per performance, plus on tour hotel and transportation provided.

Currently seeking the following types:

• African-American Actors: males and female, 18-22, to play college students
• African American male, 30s-40s, to play father and professor
• Latina Actors: female, 18-22, to play college students, ability to speak Spanish a plus
• Latina female 30s-40s, to play the mother, ability to speak some Spanish a must
• Note: All characters must be comfortable with spoken work/poetry/rap.

New Cast members are paid 50% of the below rates until successful completion of the three performances. Note the Standard BTLP Company Member Rates below.  

• $100.00 Per Show - NYC (5 Boros).
• $125.00 Per Show - (Outside of 5 Boros) Non-overnight.
• $165.00 Per Show - Requiring overnight stay

For more information about the play, click HERE

Also if you get selected, feel free to invite me to your first show! Suerte/ Good luck!

Recently I posted on how social media is evolving. Its grown to encompass new ways of sharing info and networking, things that didn’t even exist a few years back. I almost feel as though I grew up in the Flintstone era, where my children never knew black and white television, 8 tracks, typewriters, rotary phones and roller skates with FOUR wheels! Is it me or does it feel like life is changing so quickly?

I’m sure I must be screaming my age with all of this but I do it because I realized I need to change! I need to change how I interact with my kids (Facebook and texting) , how I network (Twitter) and how I do my research (leapfish)!

Gone are the days when I would walk to the library to use their encyclopedias for my reports. In fact, kids don’t even WRITE book reports any longer! They do it on their computers and hand it to their teachers on disks. No more lugging around huge amounts of books back and forth from school, they can access their school websites and class syllabus on the Internet. Need to talk to your child? Well you better make sure you are internet savvy, especially if you have a tween/teen!Do I feel like an old fogey sometimes? Heck yeah I do! What can I do about it? I can make sure I keep abreast of all the new social media and, most importantly, USE it!

One of the sites that I recently discovered that has helped me keep up with all of the different applications is leapfish. It was recently unveiled to rave reviews online. Its press release stated that its a  “new multi-media and real-time search engine, communication, and sharing platform that gives consumers the most convenient, fun, and personalized way to experience and share the traditional and real-time Web – the new “Living Web.” They classify themselves as a “Living Web” because just like people, leapfish continues to grow and evolve, it does not stay stagnant.

The search engine searches the Internet in two ways: web search OR real time search. A web search will search the Internet via Google, Yahoo and Bing, while a real time search will pull info from Twitter, YouTube, Twitpic, and Flickr. To test it out, I decided to do a few searches using my Twitter name and my blog address, knowing what the results would be beforehand. I loved it! They did better then I expected! Why? Because it gave me the option of looking at Google, Yahoo and Bing during the same web search! I didn’t have to open three separate pages to see my results. I only needed to click a small tab on the side of the search page and voila… the results appeared! When I conducted a real time search, I saw my twitter timeline, as well as any YouTube, Twitpic, and Flickr items associated with it. It also gave me the Trending Topics on the side of the real time search page. Now how HOT is that?!

I tried to do a snapshot of the screens but I think my free trial finished.  Bummer

If you want to test it out yourself just click HERE. Before you do look at their video below. Dramatic isn’t it? Definitely catches the eye, at least it did mine! I also believe they live up to the hype and so does Mashable, Entrepreneur Magazine and the Stevie’s for Best Interface Design.

Social media has grown in influence over the years. It has become a huge part of our everyday lives. We use it in many ways to connect with our friends, our family and our co-workers. But did you realize prospective employers also utilize it to discover information about you that is not contained within a background check? Knowing this you should take some steps to ensure you are seen in the very best possible light!

First, google yourself utilizing your full name and common variations of your name. Does anything come up that will raise red flags to an employer? Is there another individual with your name noted in a negative manner? If any of these scenarios pop up, you should try to build up your online presence by creating a positive one. One of the simplest ways to do so is by commenting on articles that are within your field. Focus on sites that promote points most employers would favor. Concentrate on larger blogs, with a high page rank, as well as online news media (i.e., cnn, msn, yahoo), as these will show up first in google searches. Make sure to also conduct a name search on bing.com, yahoo.com and ask.com. Note, ask.com is also known as aj.com. 

Second, check pictures that pop up when you conduct a search of your name.  Are there any pictures that note you in a compromising situation? Perhaps showing you in a manner that will be frowned upon? Again attempt to saturate the search engines so that those pictures are not shown on the first few pages of a search, as most employers review the first ten pages.  If the compromising pictures are on Facebook, I’ve discovered a great program from Wisk the laundry detergent called WISK-IT that will erase Facebook pictures. WISK-IT works just like the Wisk laundry detergent. It cleans your mess and you don’t even need Clorox!   

Third, check Twitter lists that include you, focusing on the name and creator.  If the name listed is positive, example social media, this will benefit you especially if its within the field you are seeking employment. If its also created by an individual who is already established within said industry that’s an added bonus. However, if you are listed in a negative list, example slimey list, it can have an adverse impact. If you find that you are listed in a list that can be detrimental,you must block the creator of the list to have your name removed.  

Can you think of any other ways social media can be detrimental to your job search? If so, please let us know by sharing your knowledge in a comment!

As a Blogger, I know how hard bloggers work to maintain a blog. In fact, most bloggers do not earn a wage that is comparable to the time spent preparing their posts; however, that appears to be changing as companies realize the worth of social media.

 Charmin is one company that is tapping into social media to extend the reach of its product. It is selecting five (5) bloggers to work as “Charmin Ambassadors”. These ambassadors will blog about their experience in Manhattan bathrooms specifically created by and for Charmin. The bathrooms will be open for the holidays from November 23 to December 31, 2009.  The selected individuals will interact with a multitude of bathroom users, while blogging and tweeting about their experiences. They will also take videos while using these bathrooms (family friendly of course!). In return, they will receive $10,000 for about 6 weeks of work!

Want a sneak peek at the Charmin Bathrooms? Watch the Youtube video below.

Click HERE to see application info.

Suerte/Good luck!

If you’ve been following my blog, then you know I work as a Mystery Shopper to earn extra cash. I’ve joined  member several shopping sites, each of which specializes in different categories. 

During the summer I conducted a bowling shop, which was super fun for me and the boys. I was compensated for what I spent and also earned a few extra bucks for conducting the review. However, the time spent with my boys enjoying a relaxing event that was paid, was worth so much more then what I earned! Click HERE to read more about the bowling shop.

Last week I was able to do a few financial shops where I reviewed several banks’ customer service. I was paid between $15-20 for each shop that I conducted on my lunch hour. Each shop took me less then 45 minutes to complete (30 minutes in the bank and 15 minutes online completing the review). Once reviewed and approved by the mystery shopping company,  the money was deposited directly into my PayPal account.

I can easily earn upwards of $50 a week ($200+ a month) when working as a mystery shopper, especially during the holidays when companies need more reviews. I then use the money as my holiday money instead of using my credit cards! Note, opportunities vary per state. 

To help you get started as a Mystery Shopper, I’ve begun to  compile a list of Mystery Shopping sites. Click HERE to view the list.

Suerte/Good luck and don’t forget to stash that extra ca$h!

I recently received the below information from a wonderful friend and Sister (Thank you Wanda!). It appears to be a great opportunity for children who are between the ages of 9-12 and 52″-58″ in height> the children must be able to sing, dance and act but do not need professional experience to apply!

Children who meet the requirements can apply to play as the African Lion Cubs Simba and Nala. Selected children will receive a minimum weekly salary of $1,500+.

I’ve noted the pertinent information below:

DATE:
Saturday, October 24, 2009

TIME:
9:00am - Sign-in begins
10:00am - Auditions begin
11:00am- Sign-in ends

WHERE:
The National Black Theatre
2031 5th Ave. (Btwn. 125th and 126th Streets) New York, NY 10035-1503

PREPARE:
Be prepared to be taught the last verse of Just Can’t Wait to be King. All children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Parents or guardians must remain at the audition site at all times. Please be prepared to wait.

FOR AUDITION INFORMATION:
Visit website: www.lionkingcasting.com
Audition hot-line: (212) 827-5450

If you are unable to attend this audition, send a picture and contact info ASAP to:

Binder Casting 
Attn: The Lion King Kids
321 W. 44th Street
Suite 606
New York, NY 10036
www.bindercasting.com

Suerte/Good luck!

********************

If this blog post helps you in anyway, please support me by voting for me on the Good Mood Gig. Click HERE to vote. You can vote everyday. Gracias/Thank you!

If this blog post helps you in anyway, please vote for me on
the Good Mood Gig.  Click HERE to vote. Gracias/Thank you!

********************

With the economy being as it is, an extra income always helps! As a single Mom, I am always searching for opportunities to bring in extra income. As a blogger I have discovered several job boards that I have put to use.  I noted below several sites where you can find these job opportunities yourself!

1. Jobs For Bloggers- Job Board: I love this site! Not only do they provide you with various opportunities, but they also give you tips on how to blog.
2. Blogadera- Jobs: Blogadera, a Latino directory, also has a job board. They appear to be under construction at this point, however, please make note of it for the future.
3. Blogger Jobs: This blog lists different opportunities. They currently posted a job opportunity for a food blogger, a blogger who understands educational technology, bloggers with legal backgrounds and more!
4. Blog Posts for Sale: This site connects you with companies who wish to work with established blogs. The companies will pay you to write about a specific topic. Pay and word count varies by company.
5. Crunch Board: This job board provides opportunity to tech geeks, however, every once in awhile you will find opportunities for bloggers/writers.
6. Simply Hired: Search this site for blog opportunities. I recently discovered a job opportunity for an NBA blogger, blog Designers, a blog commenter and more!
7. Blogger and Freelance Jobs Resource: This site has recently posted opportunities for Travel bloggers, as well as craft writers familiar with scrapbooking. They post various opportunities that are flexible.
8. About Freelance Writing: A wonderful blog that not only showcases blogging jobs, but explains how to apply, how to blog, and how to set fees! Definitely a gem to fave!
9. PoeWar: Site offers opportunities for freelance writers and bloggers. As of this posting, they have a listing for a Freelance NY1 writer.
10. SunOasis: Blog offers various blog jobs that can be done offsite, unless specified otherwise. David, the blogger who maintains the site, appears to update frequently.

Hope this helps you earn some extra ca$h!

Suerte/Good Luck!

If you’re a blogger you’ve heard the news. The Federal Trade Commission (”FTC”)  is setting guidelines for bloggers. Most bloggers are already adhering to the new rules, however, bloggers who were not must do so on or before December 1, 2009 to avoid sanctions and fines.

What does this mean to a Blogger?

• You must disclose any freebies you receive for reviews and/or posts.
• You must disclose any money received for reviews and/or posts.
• Blogger must include the typical results someone would expect to get from the product they are reviewing, even if it differs from their own experience.
• An atypical result, example, losing an extraordinary amount of weight with a diet pill or by playing the Wii, would require a “results not typical” clause in the post.
• If a person buys a product with their own money and praises it on their personal blog, it is not considered an endorsement.

As of yet, a set format has not been mandated. The only stipulation appears to be that bloggers place a “clear and conspicuous” notice on their blog. Ethical bloggers already post such a disclosure on their blogs,  like the ones found on the bottom of my  “Advertise” and “Support Us” pages. They also note when products or money are received for review in their individual posts.

Those who are not in compliance must make sure to follow the new guidelines on or before December 1, 2009. Any blogger who does not comply can be sanctioned and/or fined (up to $11,000 PER post!).  The FTC has also stated that it will review each infringement on a case by case basis.  Since the regulation is new, bloggers who do not adhere to these guidelines will most likely be given a warning before a fine is assessed.

If you’re a blogger or social media fiend, as I am, how do you feel about this? Let me know!

Click HERE to read the FTC guidelines in its entirety.

Click HERE for a brief synopsis from the FTC.

Psst this blog post is NOT a paid endorsement and I have NOT received any freebies to share this tidbit! Hey I figured I better play it safe right?

UPDATE: While attending the Blogalicious 2009 convention, I learned that  free products given to a blogger do NOT have to be returned. Its a false rumor!

Gap and DisneyFamily.com are searching for a new face, a new child model, ten years of age or younger, to represent the babyGap and/or GapKids Brand on store windows.  To enter the casting call an adult, 18 years or older, can upload up to 5 pictures of  their child/children, who must be ten (10) years of age or younger. Also, the pictures cannot be older than 3 months old.

The pictures will be judged by category. The four categories are noted below. The casting call ends on October 22, 2009.

• Baby Girls (ages 0 to 4)
• Baby Boys (ages 0 to 4)
• Girls (ages 5 to 10)
• Boys (ages 5 to 10)

Winners’ will receive the following:

• Professional Gap photo shoot
• Their photo in Gap stores nationwide
• $1,000 Gap GiftCard redeemable for a babyGap or GapKids wardrobe
• VIP vacation to see Disney’s THE LION KING in New York or Las Vegas

To see the complete set of rules click HERE.

To enter click HERE.

Suerte/Good luck!

I’ve found many coupon sites over the Internet. In fact, I know I’ve used a few of them to make online purchases this year alone. Yet I have never found a coupon site like Coupon Chief. The site not only provides you with coupons for your online purchases but also pays YOU to post YOUR coupons and discounts!

Its a great way to earn some extra money for the holidays especially if you’re like me and subscribe to your favorite stores, thereby getting the heads up on the hottest deals. If you upload your coupons to their site, you will receive 2% of the sales generated by those coupons. It may not sound like a lot but 2% is nothing to scoff at! With the holidays coming up and online shopping being the preferred way to make purchases, the sales generated by your coupons are sure to add up. 

To begin earning money, do the following:

• Enroll in their Pays-2-Share program which is FREE.
• Only 1 account per person.
• Login and submit coupon codes for participating merchants.
• Add their widget to your blog or website to increase earnings.

Sales generated by your coupons will be tracked on your account. After a 30-day holding period, you can request payment via check or PayPal if you have earned at least $25.   

You can also use their coupons for yourself. They have online coupons and store discounts for apparel, electronics, travel, entertainment and more!  They have well known stores like Ann Taylor and Coach! And ladies you know Coach coupons are hard to come by! You can also find coupons for Target and Kmart, which I love because necessities can definitely add up quickly.

Click here to see their Coupon Codes.

Click here to go to their Coupon Affiliate Page to read more about their Pays-2-Share program and to enroll.

Hope this helps you earn and save some extra dinero/money!

Do you enjoy hearing about products before the general public? Are you the type of person who likes to share their knowledge? Do you just enjoy receiving FREE products? If you answered with a resounding YES to any of these, you needto join Vocalpoint!

Vocalpoint is an online community for Moms and its FREE! You do not have to be a blogger to join. You do not have to be a twitter or Facebook fiend. In fact, you do not have to be connected to any social media. None. Zilch. Nada.

I joined more than two years ago after reading about the program in a magazine.  Since joining I’ve received several freebies. I noted below the ones I really enjoyed and began to use after testing out the products.

• Venus Razor with extra blades
• Tide
• Bounce
• Downy
• Oil of Olay
• Shampoos
• Kashi products
• Various Deodorants
• Make-up

Along with the freebies I’ve received coupons that have saved me quite a bit of money. I’ve also joined several of their paid Focus groups and helped shape the course of future products!

I’ve convinced several “real life” friends to join because the freebies alone make it worthwhile and now wanted to share the info with you, my readers.  Btw you do not need to join every survey or provide feedback for every product. As long as you participate at least once every two months or so your account should stay active and you will continue to receive future products. However they may not be the higher end products given to participants who are more active in the community.

If you’re interested in joining the program you can sign up HERE. Once you’ve completed the registration, make sure you request the FULL size Secret deodorant, FluMist, and Kashi cereal!

Enjoy and don’t forget to stash that extra ca$h!

Last week I spoke on how you could earn 30 extra Swagbucks during the month of September. If you missed that post click HERE.

If you still haven’t joined Swagbucks, I have some exciting news! The Swagbucks team is extending an offer to my readers who have not yet signed up for swagbucks. New members who use my link and code will get 5 swagbucks to start them off on their mission to savings.

I highly recommend the site because its an easy way to earn by searching the Internet. By using their search engine, which includes results from Ask.com and goggle.com, you can quickly amass a substantial amount of swagbucks or points. These swagbucks can then be redeemed for cash, gift cards, DVDs, CDs and more!

You can also earn additional swagbucks by doing any of the following:

• Add the toolbar as noted in my previous post found HERE.
• Follow Swagbucks on twitter to get a heads up on any swag codes that are being offered.
• Fan Swagbucks on Facebook (my fave after the search engine). By becoming a fan you will be notified of special swag codes.
• Invite your family and friends to join by using the special referral link they provide when you sign up. By referring others you earn when they earn, up to the first 100 swagbucks! NOTE: By using my link and my special code to start you earn 5 Swagbucks versus the 3 that is originally given!  
• Submit a poll. If its used you earn extra swagbucks, so get creative!

You can find  additional ways to earn on their website but the above are my favorite.

To earn 5 swagbucks click HERE and enter code: MSLATINA1. The code is case sensitive and expires on September 17, 2009.

Now pass it on and start earning that swag!

I’ve mentioned Swagbucks several times since I have begun blogging because I find it to be a great way to earn extra money, gift cards, t-shirts, DVDs, CDs, and more.

Since I started using Swagbucks, all of 4 months ago, I’ve amassed almost 500 Swagbucks (points) which I can redeem for prizes. I’ve chosen to save my Swagbucks for the holidays. By doing this I can put the money I would have spent on gifts on my credit cards; thereby paying down my debt. Or I can redeem my swagbucks for cash if I do not need to use all of it on gifts. I’m hoping the latter will be the case and with Swagbucks’ September special it  may come true!

Swagbucks has just announced that we can get get an additional 30 Swagbucks if we download the Swagbucks.com toolbar this September. The toolbar is available for Internet Explorer, Safari and Firefox. When you download the toolbar, the code will appear in a mailbox icon found on the toolbar. You will receive an extra swagbuck every day for one whole month! I do have to warn you, the code has an expiration date and time. You must enter the code before it expires or you forfeit the swagbuck (I learned this the hard way!).

If you haven’t already joined Swagbucks, you can join by using my Swagbucks referral code. By using my link you will  receive 3 swagbucks to start you off. This is in addition to the 30 you will receive by downloading the Swagbucks toolbar. Based on just these Swagbucks you will be able to redeem your points for two FragranceNet.com - $5 e-Gift Cards (15 swagbucks each) or you can hold off and get a $5 Amazon.com e-Gift Card when you reach 45!    

 Click HERE to sign up for Swagbucks via my link.

Click HERE to find out other ways to earn Swagbucks.

Now go ahead collect that swag, just don’t forget to stash that ca$h!

When I first began this blog I posted about how I made extra money with surveys. I love it because its an easy way to make extra money from home and I can use these funds as my family’s fun money.

I discovered SurveySavvy when I was surfing the Internet on Swagbucks, another GREAT way to make extra money (To read more about Swagbucks click HERE) but in this post I will focus on SurveySavvy. 

Of course, I researched the entity before enrolling with the company. Below is what I discovered.

• SurveySavvy is a subsidiary of Luth Research, which has been in operation since 1977.  
• SurveySavvy passed the Better Business Bureau accreditation standards and became authorized to display the BBB Accredited Business seal on August 19, 1997. 
• SurveySavvy received a BBB “A” rating.
• SurveySavvy’s website is McAfee Secure so whatever information you input is safe.

Now let’s find out how it can help you make some extra money!

• You enroll and receive surveys via e-mail. The surveys you receive are based on the info you provide in your profile.
• Each survey can earn you a few dollars. You choose when you want to receive a payment. The payment will be sent to you via check to the address you provide on your profile.
• You can also extra money by referring others, which means you can support my site and line your pockets without spending a dime! (Works like Swagbucks)
• When your referrals refer someone, you also earn money!
• In order to earn money for your referrals, a referral has to qualify for and complete a paid survey.
• Each completed referral earns you 50¢.
• You can earn up to $600 per tax year before you have to report it on your taxes.
• SurveySavvy is open to EVERYONE and is not limited to the US.
• Payments can be requested when you have earned at least $1.

It can also give you other perks…

• Several companies have partnered with SurveySavvy to form focus groups.
• If selected to join a focus group, you can receive gift certificates, products and extra money for your input.
• As a member of a focus group, you will receive information about products and services before the general public.
• Focus groups are confidential so please don’t brag or it could ruin your chances of getting selected for another one!

Now go ahead enroll with SurveySavvy  by clicking HERE. Its FREE plus I’m sure the perks and extra money will come in handy for the holidays!

PZI Image

Have you ever thought about modeling but were worried you were not thin enough? Surprise! Full figured gals are in hot demand, especially because the average size for a woman in the United States is now a size 12.

PZI Jeans is looking for full figure women, with an “hourglass” figure, specifically “women who have fuller hips and rear with a contoured waist”.  They are looking for all ethnicities, 23 and older, who are at least 5 feet 5 inches tall.

I thought this was such a wonderful opportunity for women to celebrate AND embraze their full figures, while making some cash and perhaps starting a new career. If interested, click HERE to find out more about this opportunity.

Suerte/Good Luck!

Recently, I received several direct messages on twitter, as well as e-mails from other bloggers requesting  tips on blogging and how to monetize a blog. As happy as I  am to help others, I do not believe the help that I can provide can compare to what can be learned at Blogalicious 2009, thats why its sure to be one of the biggest blogger events of the year!

When I first started blogging I made numerous mistakes that cost me time and money. I learned through trial and error. I now understand that I needed a role model, a mentor, that could teach me the ins and outs of blogging. Blogalicious 2009 is just that mentor and role model! They will show bloggers how to connect with companies and PR reps, because who doesn’t want to get paid for all their hard work! They will also connect you with other bloggers who can aid you on your blogging  journey, something I wish I would have had when I started!

As a speaker on the Mom 2.0 Panel, I will discuss issues that are pertinent to Mom bloggers, issues that only moms share.  The speakers on the Mom 2.0 panel can understand and relate to Moms as other bloggers cannot because they themselves are Moms. As a speaker, I am interested to know what YOU would like to hear? What do you want to get out of this, whether by the Mom 2.0 panel or any of the other various panels? Let me know!  

I’m excited to say that Blogalicious 2009 will answer alot of the questions that you may have, as well as connect you with new contacts. These contacts will help you network and build your blog following. Hopefully, you will take advantage of this wonderful event and all it can teach you. Registration for Blogalicious 2009 closes on September 10, 2009 so you must register no later than 11:59 pm on September 9. Also, there are a limited amount of seats left (about 45) so don’t sit on it! Avansa/hurry before they are gone!

Espero verte en Blogalicious 2009/ Hope to see you at Blogalicious 2009!

Click HERE to see the Blogalicious 2009 panels/speakers.

I’m happy to announce that Swagbucks is giving readers of Latina On a Mission a special incentive to join!

If you’re new to Swagbucks, its a great way to earn virtual dollars that can be redeemed for money, gift cards, t-shirts, comics, DVDs, CDs, and so much more! Earning points or “swag bucks” is very simple. You earn ”swag bucks” by searching the net via the Swagbucks website, by submitting poll ideas, sending them your old cell phones and video games, shopping in the swagbucks mall, sharing your code, and more.  Best of all, swag bucks do not expire, which means you can save your digital dollars for a special occasion or a particular item from their swag store. I’m saving my swag bucks for the upcoming holiday season. This will help me cut my costs,  while still providing my friends and family with the presents I know they want. I don’t want to go into too many details since the screen has “ears”  but I have my eye set on a few of their Wii games, the Starbucks Gift card, the Adele CD, and the House Season 5 DVD (Love Him!)

Click on my previous posts HERE and HERE to read more about the swagbucks site and how to earn these valuable “swag bucks”. 

Now onto the Latinalicious part:

New Swagbucks members will receive 5 swagbucks when they sign up via my link below! They normally provide 3 swagbucks to new members, however new members signing up via the link below will be ahead of the game! To get the 5 swagbucks you must enter the code MSLATINA . It is case sensitive and only available to new members. It also expires on Tuesday August 18, 2009 so make sure you grab this one quickly if you haven’t joined already!

Ready, set, go!

When I was younger, my mother opened up bank accounts for my brothers and I. We received an allowance and were encouraged to save a portion of it; however, the decision of how much was ours. As we aged we were able to see that money grow.  It taught us discipline and finances. We learned to budget for our pleasures, as well as for what we deemed “necessities”. We learned to delay an instant gratification to receive a larger one down the line. It inspired us to save and taught us before we went out into the world ourselves. It was a wonderful learning lesson from our mother, that I am trying to pass along to my own boys by giving them an allowance (age appropriate) and having them budget for their wants and needs.

For that reason, I’m always on the lookout for companies that will help me reinforce these lessons with my own children. Thats why I was so happy when I discovered that TD Banks is giving their Youth Savers an incentive to read AND to save! They are paying your children $10 to read ten books before September 30, 2009.

In order to qualify for this incentive you must have or must open a Youth Savers account. Its a passbook savings account that allows them to watch their savings grow.

The Youth Saver account is for anyone younger than 21; however, I do not suggest it for kids older than 14 as their rate is pretty low. Teens, with their parents support, can open regular accounts that include debit and credit card options. I do, however, think that TD Bank’s Youth Saver passbook account is a great teaching opportunity for children under 14. It can benefit your child in various ways, including but not limited to:

• Teaching them that there is a cause and effect with money (Read and earn, just like a job)
• Teaching them how banks function (interest rates, how to make deposits, withdrawals, etc.)
• Teaching them to save and budget for any items they may want
• Teaching them basic skills that they will utilize the rest of their lives

Teach them early to stash that ca$h, a skill they will never forget, whether you use TD Bank or another! Prepare them  and they’ll be ready to conquer the world!

Click HERE for TD Bank’s summer reading program.

Click HERE for TD Bank’s Homepage.

Queen Latifah is working on a new film this year. It will be a romantic comedy, centered around basketball, called “Just Wright”. A portion of the movie will be filmed at the IZOD Center in New Jersey, with the Nets President and some Nets players. The producers of the movie are also looking for a few extras to cast in the film and I have all the Latinalicious info here!   

On Wednesday, August 12th, Thursday August, 13th, and Friday, August 14th the producers are inviting interested NON SAG ( Non-Union Screen Actors Guild members) women, men and children to attend a Casting Open Call! You can attend all days or one specific date; however, to participate, you must be able to stay the whole day, from mid morning until night. If you are selected as an extra you will be paid  $79.75 for completion of 10 hours of work and get to mingle with Queen Latifah and Nets players. 

In order to attend you must rsvp by e-mail to fans@njnets.com no later than Wednesday, August 5th! In your email, include the following information:

- Name
- Age
- Phone number (home and cell)
- Email address
- Days available to shoot
- Can you receive text messages?
- Will you be able to travel to East Rutherford, NJ (must arrange your own transportation to shoot)
- Are you SAG (Screen Actor Guild)*?
- Are you a US Citizen or have a valid passport, Greencard, Work Visa? (Everyone must have a social security number)
- Please attach a recent candid picture of yourself (please make sure it is not too large)

Exact information regarding wardrobe and parking information will be sent to everyone who is selected to work as an extra.

Suerte/Good Luck!  And don’t forget to stash that ca$h!

I discovered SmartyPig sometime ago while surfing the internet. It is an online “savings program”, or online bank, that offers one of the highest interest rates around. I didn’t want to recommend the site until I had tried it out myself and now I can!

Below is what I discovered:

• Its FDIC secure so you do NOT have to worry about losing whatever money you deposit into it.
• Its FREE to open up an account. The account must be set up with $25.  It is also FREE to withdraw from the account.
• It allows you to save for a specific goal or goals. (I love this!) You set the time frame and it will calculate how much you have to deposit by said date. You can then set up a direct deposit for the calculated amount or a different one! NOTE: If you do an automatic deposit, it will stay in effect until you reach your goal or cancel the account.
• It allows you to visually track your progress. This is great if you are like me a visual person.
• It allows OTHER people to deposit money into your account. You can even promote it on your website, blog, Facebook or MySpace page. Now instead of presents or drinks for your birthday, your friends and family can deposit funds directly into your account!  
• It allows you to withdraw your money in three different ways: (1) SmartyPig Debit Card, (2) Deposit into an existing checking or savings account, and (3) Deposit funds into retail gift cards for up to 6% more!  The gift card seems great if you are purchasing an item    NOTE: SmartyPig doesn’t do partial withdrawals. You must withdraw the full amount.
• As of August 4, 2009, it has the HIGHEST rate out there: 2.75%!  
• You can purchase SmartyPig Gift Cards to give as gifts. The cards are FREE if you have an account with SmartyPig. If not, you have to pay.

SmartyPig also has other perks. If you follow them on Twitter, which I highly suggest you do, they hold monthly twitter contests where you can win money. In July, they gave away $300!  Sadly, I didn’t win but just like the Lotto you can’t win it if you’re not in it.  ;)  So make sure you open a twitter account and follow them. While you’re at it friend me and send me a tweet (short twitter message). My name is @MsLatina.

To find out more about SmartyPig or to open your own account, click HERE.

To follow SmartyPig on Twitter, click  HERE.

Hope this helps you reach your goals and stash more ca$h!

Coupons are a great way to save money on groceries and necessities, the biggest and most easily adjustable expense any household has. With the use of coupons you can save $100 or more per month. The process is simple to start and incorporate into your life. In fact, it can be done with less than thirty minutes of planning before shopping!

To start, click the “see all coupons” tab below. This will allow you to see which coupons you can use. You can then print them out before heading out the door.

Just a note, the coupons have a set amounts of allowable prints, for that reason, you should print out all the coupons you believe you will use at the beginning of the month. Keep them in a folder and try to use them along with supermarket and/or drugstore sales to get the biggest bang for your buck!

 
I also suggest you stash whatever ca$h you saved with coupons and watch it grow! At the end of the year, tally it up. I’m sure it will be larger than you expected and perfect for a special treat or to help you reach whatever financial goals you may have!

There are many different types of Bloggers. Some blog to keep family updated on their lives. Others blog to vent, get support, to keep busy or to help others.  Sorting through these and many other  blogs can be time consuming for advertisers, including bloggers who want to promote their blogs, etsy shops, companies with small budgets or hoping to slash their advertising costs, start-ups, and mom and pop type stores to name a few.

Advertisers benefit by promoting their services and products via blogs. Its a cheaper alternative to print or media advertisement. Its also more cutting edge. Blogs get seen by more people than yellow pages.  Advertisers can benefit from these blogger relationships, reaching a greater audience at a cheaper rate than paying for print advertisement or even Google. Bloggers can also make or break a product with their reviews (ex. Vista). In fact, when a blogger enjoys using a specific product or service they will shout it to the world repeatedly! (I know I have!) When a blogger is not satisfied, they let the advertiser know, going into details of their dissatisfaction. This rapport between advertiser and blogger allows the advertiser to take steps to  improve their product/service. In the end, both ways help an advertiser become competitive.

PayPerPost v4.0 gives advertisers and bloggers an opportunity to connect. After signing up, an advertiser has the opportunity to invite bloggers to work with them, while the blogger has the ability to select or ignore the opportunity. Its a perfect collaboration because bloggers who select the opportunity are already happy with the product; thereby ensuring a great review!

Click HERE for more information and to sign up!  

Youth Small Business Summer Camp, a FREE camp for teenagers in the NYC area, sponsored by Mentoring in Medicine, Inc. - a 501c3 non-profit, has 35 NYC openings at the Harlem location, as well as openings for others to attend online. The two week camp session is titled: “The Young Adult’s Guide to Starting and Growing Their Own Business”. As implied by the name it will inspire teenagers to start and grow their very own businesses!

It will focus on the following topics:

Make money this summer
Identify ideas that can make money
Incorporate your business and open a bank account
Build an advisory board
Manage your time
Use the Internet to attract clients
Track your finances
Gain contracts and network with established business owners

For INFORMATION and to REGISTER: Click HERE

Cost: FREE

Date: Monday, July 13th-Friday, July 24th, 2009

Time: 2pm-5pm

Location: The Verizon Technology Education Center, 148 West 125th Street, 3rd floor, NYC, btwn. 6th and 7th Avenue

Telephone: 800-671-0643

The lead instructor, Andrew Morrison, is the President of Small Business Camp. He’s appeared on the Oprah Winfrey Show and has trained thousands of entrepreneurs from Hawaii to West Africa.

You can read more about Andrew Morrison by clicking  HERE,  HERE and  HERE.

Again, seating is limited at the Harlem location to 35 students only. However, with an internet connected computer, young adults can attend from home by joining their “live” video broadcast.

If interested, adults can also become Off-Site Coordinators, by organizing a group of young people to attend the Camp online.

Powered by Stacie Grant, President of C&G Enterprises

I recently heard about an opportunity that I had to pass along to my readers.

Wife Swap, the reality show,  is looking for families to cast on their show. In order to be considered the family has to consist off  a two-parent home with at least one child between the ages of 6 and 17, that is  living at home full time. Families that are cast receive $20,000 for their time and commitment.

The show requires  two wives from two different families with very different values to exchange husbands, children and lives (but never their bedrooms) for seven days to discover what it’s like to live a different family’s life.  The families must be willing to display their family lifestyle with America.

If you or someone you know may be interested in this opportunity, you can email the contact information to Amanda Gershkowitz,  Casting Associate Producer at Wife Swap, amanda.gershkowitz (AT) rdfnewyork (DOT) com . Please let Amanda know you heard about it on my blog, Latina On a Mission, and while you’re at it leave a comment so we can make sure we stay tuned!

Suerte/Good Luck!

Have you joined Swagbucks, an online search engine that gives you ”swag bucks” or points that you exchange for FREE items?  If you have, I’m sure you’ve found its a wonderful way to get some extra goodies, like FREE giftcards, T-shirts, books, DVDs, CDs and so much more. If you haven’t, you should definitely jump on it because I have some great news:  Swagbucks  is now giving away CASH! That’s right, now when you use this program to search the Internet you’ll earn  “Swag Bucks”  that you can exchange for cold, hard, cash! 

There are several way to earn but I find that using the Swagbucks search engine is the easiest and fastest way to win $1-$5, $10, $20, $50 and $100 in swag bucks. You can also use it to search for web addresses that you already know like Payless.com or swagbucks.com. It’s also worth noting that only your first 20 searches each day qualify for the random awards.

If you haven’t joined already, you can join by clicking HERE or by clicking on the button below. By using this link you will get $3 to start you off.

You can find more ways to earn by reading my previous post  HERE.

So go ahead, collect that swag, just don’t forget to stash that caSh!

Madison Square Garden is hosting a Sports & Entertainment Career Fair on Thursday, July 30, 2009. The fair is an opportunity to meet professionals within the following fields: sales, marketing, advertising, ticket office, public relations, finance and more!

There will be two sessions to meet with representatives from top Sports and Entertainment companies. Session A is from 1:00-3:00pm and Session B is from 3:00-5:00pm. I’ve noted below a few of companies that will be onhand. 

• Madison Square Garden
• MSG Entertainment & MSG Media
• New York Knicks
• New York Rangers
• New York Liberty
• Beacon Theatre
• Radio City Music Hall
• FUSE
• Disney ABC Television Media Networks
• Gazelle Group
• NBA
• Newark Bears
• NJ Nets
• NY Yankees
• Prudential Center
• Universal Music Group
• USTA
• WNBA

In order to attend the seminar, you must register beforehand. There is a registration fee to attend the seminar. If you register in advance, before 7/23/09, the fee is $25. If you register after 7/23/09 the fee is $35. The last day to register is 7/29/09. As an added bonus, registration includes a ticket to the New York Liberty vs. Washington Mystics game at 7:30pm.

If you plan to attend,  prepare, prepare, prepare. Research the objectives of the company or companies that you are interested in. Update your resume adding select keywords from the companies profile. Bring several copies of your resume to the fair. Obtain and bring copies of recommendation letters. Prepare a short introductary pitch. Practice test questions and answers. Dress professionally. Walk with confidence and most importantly smile!  

To register and for more information click HERE.

To research the companies listed above click HERE.

For tips on how to introduce and sell yourself click HERE.

For practice questions and answers click HERE.

I ‘m so excited to share some of my coupons finds! I find shopping with coupons always helps me save at least $30-50 a week when paired with store sales.

I used to post the weekly circulars for the three major stores in my area: CVS, Rite-Aid and Duane Reade but I found  that it was so much work and many didn’t take advantage of it so I discontinued it. If you would like me to resume doing the weekly sale update, please leave me a comment or send me an e-mail. If I receive enough feedback, I will definitely start it back up!

This week I couldn’t pass up these finds and wanted to share them with my readers! Hope you’re able to take advantage of a few of them!

You can view all of the coupons by selecting ”see all coupons”. These were my favorite coupons: $5 coupon for Rite-Aid, $1.50 off Country Time Drink Mix (Perfect for the summer), $1 off Listerine, $1 off  Scott,  $2 off Crystal Light (Fina this is your fave girl!), $2.00 off Garnier Nutritioniste(Love their products!), $1 off John Frieda (another GREAT product for this latina’s hair!), Keebler, Pillsbury, Wisk, General Mills Cereals, Axe Deodorant (cause no one wants a stinky mate!), and so many others that can be used to buy your groceries and necessities.

They also had several coupons that you can use to create a stock pile of gifts like $5- $10 off Hasbro games. These coupons can be paired with the Toys R Us summer sales. Or check out Amazon’s deals, sometimes I find they are cheaper! I find  keeping games on hand helps keep the boys content on those rainy days or when I have adult company, while we drink some vino/wine.

Check them out and let me know which were your faves. Also I suggest you print out whatever coupons you need NOW because once the system reaches its max they will not allow anyone to print any more!

Have you heard of iStockphoto? They are a wonderful site where you can purchase and download images for a nominal fee. They also have some FREE images available for download.  The downloaded images can than be used for various items, like birthday cards, holiday cards, wrapping paper, blogs, business cards, T-shirts, mugs and so much more!

There is NO charge to join iStockphoto. It’s free.  The images are also royalty free, meaning you do not have to pay the artist everytime you use the image! However, just to be safe read the fine print on any photo you like. I found one that I wanted to use on a T-shirt but that particular artist restricted the picture to online images only.  They were selling rights for printing but this chica/lady has goals and that purchase was definitely not a necessity!

As always being Latinaliciously frugal, I searched and was able to locate a code that can be used for not one, but TWENTY, free photo downloads from a select number of pictures that are worth $100! To get this Latinalicious freebie click HERE and use code AVERYBINDER.

Also, here’s an insiders tip, each week they throw out several free images. You can only get those free images during the period noted. If you miss it, it rarely comes back! I tend to download the free images even if I am not going to use them at that point because they can come in handy later on!

I received the following job posting from a friend. Delta’s Summer Airport Customer Service Program  is looking to hire individuals 18 and older for full-time summer positions in various locations. Summer employees will also receive Delta worldwide travel privileges!   

Click below to view the posting.

Delta Airlines Job Posting   

If interested, click HERE to apply directly with Delta.

Good luck/Suerte!

As summer time approaches I find that we are invited to more birthdays, communions, bridal showers, and weddings. This can be such a budget buster if  I didn’t plan for the events by setting a budget each month; however, like all plans, sometimes these can also go awry. Its in those moments that I use my creativity!

When the gift is for a child, I try to keep my gifts under $10.  I’ve listed some examples of how I stay under budget below.

1. I recycle gift bags given to me. This not only saves money but saves our trees!  

2. When wrapping paper is needed, I use newspapers or magazines. I like using the Sunday funnies for children’s gifts. They are in color and very festive.

3. I create a birthday card at home. Its much more personal than a store brought card. If you have pictures of the child you can use that on the front of the card. If you don’t have a picture of the child, you can create a card with any picture. Below is a sample of a picture I used for the outside of a homemade card. The picture is of a billboard in Times Square. I thought it was a nice touch since so many kids are into texting.   

4. I normally stock pile items that I can use in giftbags. Some of the  items are generic enough that they can be used for boys or girls. They can also be used for a wide variety of ages. I will discuss this in a bit more detail in a future post. For now, here are a few items I try to keep on hand: Coloring books, crayons, wooden puzzles, Clay Doh, stickers, balls, jump ropes, DVDs, and CDs.

When the gift is for a tween or a teenager I try to keep it under $20. Impossible you say? Not if you are creative!

1. Purchase a bond. If you purchase an “EE” bond you pay half of the face value. I can get a $25 Bond for $12.50. For this gift you will be asked to provide your SS number if you do not know their number. Your SS number will not show if you note that it is a gift. Also, the bond takes a few weeks to arrive but at the time of purchase you can ask for a gift receipt to put in the card that you created!

2. Purchase a stock in something they are interested in. Example: If they enjoy motorcycles get a single share of  HARLEY DAVIDSON INC, which is currently trading for less than $17.  You can then frame the share and wrap it. With today’s market you should be able to purchase under-priced single shares. Contact the company you are interested in and ask if it offers a Direct Share Purchase Plan or research individual companies by clicking HERE. This is a great way to teach a teenager about investing. Note, for this gift you will need their SS number.

3. DVD, Video Games, CDs - You can purchase any of these from Barnes & Noble.com, who works with Gamestop,  or Amazon.com
I suggest you compare prices and look for FREE shipping offers.

4. Music- Colored earphones($10), an iTunes Gift Card($5), and a CD mix made at home, make a wonderful gift bag option for a tween or a teen. To help you create a CD mix, click HERE to download six free songs (mainly pop) from Sephora, while supplies last OR get FREE downloads from Amazon

5. Gift Cards- I use my Swagbucks to get gifts for teens.  I like the Amazon Gift cards the best since it offers such a wide variety of items.  

6. Movie Tickets- My job offers employees discounted movie tickets through a purchasing program. If your job  doesn’t you should check your car insurance (Geico offers this), and your medical insurance (Oxford and Cigna offer this). I can purchase tixs for as low as $6.95 each. You can create a gift bag with two tickets ($14), popcorn in a bag or unpopped (99¢  in the 99 Cents store), candy (2 for99¢  in 99 Cent store), and the home made card for a grand total of $16!  You can even add a Restaurant.com gift certificate.

7. Magazine Subscription- I gave Big K a magazine subscription to Entertainment Weekly and Little Man a magazine subscription to Sports Illustrated Kids over the holidays. I find that they love receiving mail and its a gift that keeps on giving since they remember me each time they receive another magazine. These gifts did not cost me one cent. They were absolutely FREE. You can order your own FREE magazines by clicking HERE.

8. For the reader, you can give them FREE MP3 Audiobooks. CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD , include a card and add a $10-20 giftcard, depending on your budget, to Barnes & Noble.com.  

When its an adult event like a Bridal Shower or a Wedding, I try to use my American Express points to purchase either a gift card or an item being offered via their site. I have a large amount of points because I use the card for everything. I then pay off the card at the end of the month. This has helped me save quite a bit of money. In fact, American Express just started offering it members, double points when they use the card to shop for groceries or to get gas. I find that using my card for everything helps me save money, as long as I pay off my debt at the end of the month and do not go over my monthly budget.  In the end, when I use my points I end up spending absolutely ZERO dollars!

Hope these frugal Latinalicious tricks help you save!

For those of you familiar with Swagbucks, an online search engine like google.com, I am sure you can agree with me when I say, “I LOVE SWAGBUCKS!” This is the easiest way that I have found to bring in some extra fun money. I especially like the gift cards that I have received since its like getting free money. I’ve already made enough to win not one, but TWO, Amazon gift cards.

If you haven’t done so already, you can join Swagbucks by clicking HERE. If you join via this link you will get $3 to start you off. To read a little more about Swagbucks, you can read my earlier post by clicking HERE. You can also click HERE to learn extra ways to earn Swagbucks.

Now this post is just a heads up on a new feature to Swagbucks that I wouldn’t want you to miss. They are now giving away EXTRA virtual ca-ching! Swagbucks has added Mega Swagbucks worth $10, $20, $50 and $100. Just like the other amounts offered, you can earn these Mega Swagbucks by searching via their Swagbucks’ website.

They give swagbucks on a daily basis, max twice a day, so make sure you use their search site. I find that I win the most points when I do it early in the morning and late at night. So make sure you use their site.

As always, I will let you know of any hidden Swagbucks, via twitter. You can get my updates by following me on Twitter. Or if you aren’t ready to join Twitter just yet, just click on the Twitter button on the right-hand side to read my updates.

Now click on over to Swagbucks and search away! Good luck!

Have you ever wanted to run away and join the circus? Well now is your chance to join THE CONEY ISLAND BOOM A RING!

The Coney Island Boom A Ring will be accepting applications for ticket sellers, ticket takers, ushers and custodial and maintenance personnel. The jobs will run from June 18-September 7 and  are available to anyone 16 and older.

If you’re interested, or know anyone who can take advantage of this opportunity, you can bring a completed application with you to the Job Fair. Click HERE to see the Job Fair flyer. You can get an application by clicking HERE. You can also find more information on the Coney Island Development Corporation Web site by clicking HERE.

The Job Fair will be held on Wednesday, May 27, at Keyspan Park in Coney Island from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Job Fair is being offered as a collaboration between Feld Entertainment, the parent company of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey and Coney Island Development Corporation.

The postions look like a great opportunity for our youth, although adults would enjoy working in these positions as well.

Suerte/Good Luck!

I recently posted Ten Quick Ways to Bring in Extra Money. After reading the post Mommy Kennedy, of The Frugal Kennedys, brought up a very good point stating that I did not include coupons. She’s right I didn’t! I didn’t include coupons in my post because I don’t use it to bring in extra income. I use it in my day to day living, saving money all the time with coupons. Just like breathing, I coupon every day, whether shopping for clothes, dining out, going to the movies, you name it I will hunt down a coupon. I think my greatest savings with coupons have been when I shop for food and/or neccesities.I know that several of my readers don’t coupon so instead of sounding like a nagging Mama and screaming “What the heck is wrong with you?!” I’m going to make it easy for you by posting the drugstore specials every week, noting coupons when available. Check to see which have the better deals, combine your store runs to save gas or shop at one if that one has a better offer instead of wasting gas on store runs.  In the end, take into account the gas and time spent running after sales because as we all know time is money!

For your reference, I obtained the following info from the NYC circulars, which may or may not correspond to the locations near you. CVS & Rite Aid prices are valid until May 22, 2009. Duane Reade prices are valid until May 22, 2009. You can see copies of each store’s circulars by clicking on the store name here:  CVS, Duane Reade, and Rite-Aid. Also if you find something on sale that you want but do not need the number of items, example 5 for $5, you can purchase 1 for $1, or whatever amount you need up to the limit!

Coupons if available for printing will be found at the bottom of the post. Also I will note “BEST PRICE” next to the item/store that I think gives you the biggest bang for your buck!

In the end, I hope this helps you lead a much more Latinalicious life cause tu mijita/you girl deserve it!

Also although not listed above I thought you may be interested to know that the following coupons are available

1. Bacardi Mixers: Save $0.55 when you buy TWO(2) cans of frozen BACARDI® MIXERS any flavor
2. Crystal Light: Save $2.00 on ANY TWO (2) Crystal Light Drink Mix products
3. Dave & Busters: FREE $10 Gameplay with $10 purchase
4. JELL-O Save $1 on the purchase of any TWO (2) JELL-O Gelatin or Pudding Snacks GREAT ONE!
5. Starbucks Coffee: Save $1.00 off any Starbucks coffee 10 oz. or 12 oz. bag. (Coupon not redeemable at Starbucks stores.)
    

Print out coupons by clicking “see all coupons” below and selecting the ones you need. FYI: I suggest you print them all now because they do give a limit as to how many coupons can be printed!!!

When I went to the Moms Nite Out, I did not have any blogger business cards. This was such a shame because I met so many fabulous bloggers that I wanted to stay in contact with. Vowing to never go through this again, I decided to venture to Staples for their 40 FREE business cards.You can click HERE to print the coupon that is required to get the Staples’ freebie. The coupon expires on June 13, 2009. Also, with the Staples’ coupon you can get 20 resume copies printed out for FREE!

These 40 cards will tide me over until I receive business cards from VistaPrint, which are also FREE! For a limited time, they are also giving away a free  stamp.

If you haven’t heard of VistaPrint or used their services, you are missing out! I first heard of this company, from one of the members at my church. They used their services to print out business cards for the church. They looked just as professional as the ones you obtain at Staples or stationary stores!

If interested in VistaPrint’s freebies click HERE.

Note, you will have to pay S&H but depending on the time-frame selected this is less than $5 for 500 business cards and a rubber stamp that can be personalized. You’ll be able to choose from 42 business card designs or customize your own and up to 10  rubber stamp designs, with 3 lines of personalized text. The rubber stamp actually retails upward of $20 in Staples! Based on just the rubber stamp, you are coming out ahead at least $15 after S&H!

I haven’t spoken about money in quite sometime. My apologies. These past few weeks have been a bit hectic, however, today I took the time to write about several ways that I’ve used to make extra money to pay down my debt and/or save. Depending on your time frame, you can do some or all of the below.

1. Blog: I have heard that you can earn extra money by blogging although that hasn’t been the case for me! Income is generated by the ads on the blogger’s pages. Hence, by clicking on a blogger’s ads and/or downloading coupons, specifically from coupons.net, you allow the blogger to earn pennies without spending a dime.  Average payment for downloaded coupons is less than five cent, while ads can generate a few pennies to a dollar. In the interest of openness with my readers, I can honestly state that I have made a grand total of $42! Of this sum, I have received absolutely NOTHING because Goggle will not submit payment until a blogger has made at least $100.

2. Hunt for Treasure: I’m sure you’ve heard the old saying, “One man’s garbage is another man’s treasure”, well its true and it can help you bring in some exta money! This is one of Big K’s favorite ways to make extra money. Every county has an area that is better off than others, so begin your search in those areas. Get to know the recycling and/or garbage schedules in those areas, then go prowling! If you live in an area like mine, then this is the way to go. In my area, people tend to discard items that are practically new or can easily be re-furbished. Whenever Big K needs a few extra dollars he goes on a Treasure Hunt then sells them in our local Craigslist, on eBay, by word of mouth or with flyers. I have to admit, I was feeling a bit claustrophobia having his finds thrown around the apartment, so we located several shops in our area that will hold and sell the items for him. They do collect a small commission for their services but in the end I keep my sanity, while he makes a few bucks. FYI: Read No. 10 below then use Swagbucks when conducting your seach
 

3. eBay/Craiglist:I find that this is one of the fastest ways to make an extra $50-100 per month. This is the perfect way for apartment dwellers like myself to host an online garage sale. Also, if you are not good at the garage sale haggling game then this is a great way to go since its easier to remain firm on your asking price when the transaction is not personalized. Now take an honest look around and  get rid of the stuff that’s making your home feel cluttered. It will bring back the peace and harmony that was missing in your life and pocket!   

4. Sell concert/sporting events and/or theater tickets on the secondary market:Depending on your state’s statutes/laws you may be able to do this without a license. New York requires a ticket reseller license when an individual sells more than 4 tickets to an event.  I use StubHub.com. You can also sell on TicketsNow, but they actually had some issues some time back and I’ve noticed that buyers aren’t purchasing from their site as much as StubHub.com. Also, note that this option requires purchasing the tickets first. If you do not sell the tickets than you will lose the money you originally invested. Its hit or miss. It depends on the popularity of the event, as well as whether the media has recently reported problems with the economy. I did better with this option  last year.

5. Sell Books: This is another good one. If you are an avid reader as I am you can easily amass a huge collection. Sell those which you have not read in some time! Great sites that I use are: TextbookX.com, and Barnes & Noble. NOTE: If you have access to the internet on your cell phone you can go to your nearest thrift shop and check the resale value of books before purchasing them for mere pennies! This can easily net you a few dollars if you do it right!

6. Etsy.com: This is a fabulous way for individuals with crafting skills to sell their wares. You do not need to be a professional to post your items. You can turn a much loved hobby into a moneymaker in etsy.com. Several hobby that have a high return include, but are not limited to, knitting, crocheting, painting, sewing, and jewelry and pottery making. Check out the site to get an idea of what  is selling. You may have a skill that is in high demand, however, do not become discouraged if your particular skill is not listed. List your wares anyway, you may become a trailblazer!

7. Babysit: This is not a job for teenagers anymore! As most Mommies know it is easier to take care of two or more kids because they end up playing together and leaving you alone. Make this work for you! Prices and fees vary per individual and state. In Manhattan, a babysitter can easily pull in $15 an hour and even more at night. Post flyers in your neighborhood schools, daycares, afterschools and of course don’t forget the power of word of mouth!

8. Mystery Shop: I love doing Mystery Shops! This is one of the quickest ways for me to make extra money and sometimes try a product/service for FREE. I especially love doing the dinner, movie, bowling and bank audits. The first three provide me with a service for free, as well as a bit of cash in my pocket. The last requires me to spend about 15 minutes evaluating the services to earn a minimum of $20! Not bad huh? I made sure I created a special account for my mystery shop money. This is the money that I use as my summer fun money. This year I dipped into it earlier than usual to purchase a Wii Fit when Barnes and Noble had a sale on Used Games. Not bad for a few short minutes of my time!

9. Surveys: Since there are so many scams out there, I will only recommend the two sites that I use, which are GlobalTestMarket and Survey Savvy, an accredited Better Business Bureau company, featured in Seventeen’s August 08 issue. Surveys are very easy to do and take just a few minutes of your life. Also the more surveys you complete the higher the return rate! They will not only offer you more surveys but will also provide you with higher paying surveys.

10. Swagbucks: Although this nets you virtual dollars, they can be redeemed for gift cards! You can check my original post that explains how by clicking HERE. Big K and I love this one. I also love that teens can do it too. It helps him save for what he wants while keeping extra in my pocket. I’ve noted it quite a bit in my blog because its that good!  The best part is that you earn virtual dollars for doing things that you would normally do anyway, like searching the net or online shoppping. If you do it on their site, it will earn you “swag bucks”.  The amount of each varies. Also, when others sign up via your link you earn when they earn! The site also gives you clues on how to earn extra “swag bucks”. You have to use the clues they provide to search for extra virtual “swag bucks”. If you follow me on Twitter by clicking on the link on the right-hand side of my blog, I will make sure to let you know when I find out any extra ways to earn more “swag bucks”.  At this time, I would like to thank all of my readers who have supported Ms. Latina by signing up via my link. I use these virtual dollars to purchase giveaway goodies and/or for my sons so thank you! For those of you who haven’t signed up yet, I can’t repeat enough how easy this is. You can sign up now via my link, by clicking HERE. As an added bonus, if you sign up via my link , you will also get $3 in virtual ’swag bucks” to start you off! 

This next one is a method I haven’t tried yet, although I will now. It was suggested by a fellow blogger. I had never considered it myself until she brought it to my attention. Thanks Carolyn for the heads up!

Giveaways: Blog Giveaways are a great way to get products that you may have had a desire to purchase without spending your own hard earned money! Of course, when you win you should take the money you would have spent on the product and sock it away or use it to pay down a debt.

After learning how I could earn extra with Giveaways, I decided to make it easier for YOU, my Latinalicious readers, and myself, by asking other bloggers to post their giveaways on my blog. You can find these giveaways by clicking on the Giveaway tab. They are posted at the top of the page. Read through each description, if its something you are interested in click on the highlighted description and let them know you heard about it here on Latina On a Mission!  I know I’ll be doing the same!

Hope these ideas helped! If you have any tips that you use to bring in extra money for the month, let me know. We could all benefit from it!

I check my credit report every year, but were you were aware that you should also check your Tenant History Report every year?

The Tenant History Report should be checked annually even if you do not rent an apartment. Just like a credit report, a Tenant History Report can alert you if anyone has applied for a rental unit under your name. This actually happened to me. At the time, I was living in my own home and not renting. However, when I seperated from my ex-husband and attempted to rent a unit for me and my children, it came to light that someone had used my identity to rent an apartment. This did not show up on my credit report, yet it tarnished my ability to rent a good unit. In fact, when I initially went to apply for my own rental unit, I was denied several times because the other individual had not paid rent on time and my income was not high enough for me to rent two units! In the end, I had  to move in with family until I was able to clear up the discrepency. I also had to provide a larger security deposit in order to obtain an apartment for me and my children.

Obtaining an apartment in your name can also be used as a gateway to steal your entire identity. The individual can then apply for credit in your name and have it delivered to the apartment that they also rented in your name. If I would have known of this before I actually needed an apartment,  I could have saved myself the added expenses and a huge headache. Hopefully, you can learn from my mistake.

To order your FREE annual Tenant History Report click HERE.

I recently posted about Swagbucks. If you missed the post, click HERE to read it. If you already started, kudos to you! If not, maybe these other ways to earn with Swagbucks will convince you how easy it is to earn gift cards and other items!

My top picks for earning extra “Swag Bucks”:

1.  Submit a photo or vlog of yourself and your Swag Store prize to info@swagbucks.com. I plan on macking it up and sending in a pic when I get my prize!

2. Add a Swagbucks banner to your website, blog, Facebook, Bebo, MySpace, MiGente, or other community profile. You can find mine below and on the sidebar.

3. Shop via Swagbucks to earn $1 for every $5 you spend.

4. Trade-In cellphones, MP3 players, video games, and consoles for points. “Swag Bucks” vary by item. Note: In most cases, they will take phones that do not work and give you bucks in return; however, even if they don’t, they will recycle the item thereby helping our planet.

5. Follow Swagbucks on Twitter to get inside info on hidden “Swag Bucks”. MommyKennedy, of  The Frugal Kennedys, recently re-tweeted about one such swag buck code. Have to say, she is really good at searching those out!

6.  Find Swag Codes. They can appear anywhere, at any time. You can find the codes in their blog, the newsletter,  on Twitter, Facebook, Flickr, and other social network pages, and by using the Swagbucks widget and toolbar. I haven’t downloaded their widget or toolbar since I have so many others items on my PC (kids!). I prefer to fave Swagbucks and go directly to their site but it may work better for you to add the widget and toolbar. If you do, let me know how its been working for you!

7. Play the weekly Swagbucks Polls. The polls tend to feature items dealing with Swag Bucks, as well as current events and entertainment. Your participation could net you a prize.

8.  Submit  a Swagbucks Poll. If they use it you earn $10 Swag Bucks!

I recently made enough “swag bucks” to earn an Amazon Giftcard that I’m giving to Big K for a job well done at school. Its a great way to motivate him. It also teaches him that there are different ways to go about attaining what one wants without going into debt. Thats definitely worth it to me!

As a Latina On a Mission to save, I try to always find ways to earn extra money. Thanks to Mommy Kennedy of  The Frugal Kennedys, I discovered a way to surf the net AND make some extra money in the process! I use Swagbucks!

For those of you who aren’t familiar with Swagbucks, let me explain.

Swagbucks is a program that you can use to search the internet. The search site uses google.com to return your results. Each search that you conduct earns you “Swag Bucks” or points. These points can then be exchanged for products in their Swagbucks store. You can use your “Swag Bucks” for comic books, sports cards, T-shirts, books, video games, gift cards and so much more! I prefer the gift cards because they are just like cash. My favorite gift cards are from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Macys, Sephora, Target, iTunes, and Starbucks!  The amount of   “Swag Bucks” required for each gift card varies. The lowest start at  $2.

Each search conducted on the site also gives you an opportunity to earn random “Swag Bucks” in the amount of $1, $2 or $5. You can earn extra points by referring others to Swagbucks too. If you are interested in signing up, I posted my referral below. As a new member, you will automatically earn $3 by using my link below and so will I!

It’s a pretty effortless way to earn extra money for something I tend to do everyday anyway. On most days, I can earn a SwagBuck in the morning and another one at night. It’s also worth noting that only your first 20 searches each day qualify for the random awards.

Signing up will also help support Latina On a Mission. So go ahead do us both a good deed and earn yourself $3 by using my button below, then start racking up some ”Swag bucks” for your summer time pleasure!

Note: Swagbucks is available in the US and Canada.

I recently posted about a wonderful opportunity for NYC teens. You can read more about that post HERE. If you haven’t been able to join, there are still openings available.  You can click HERE to register.

The event will run from 8-5p.m on Saturday, April 25. Breakfast will be served from 8am until 8:45am. The general session is set to begin at 9am. Lunch should also be provided; however, please bring money in case it isn’t. Also, make sure to bring a pen and notebook to take notes.

Students must dress their best. No mini skirts or pants below the waist. Potential “angel” investors and clients will be at this event. This is a wonderful networking opportunity for our youth!

After the one day session, support will continue via the internet, social networking and conference calls to ensure students remain motivated.

Please pass the info along to any interested parties! Its a FREE event that should not be missed, as it will inspire and empower the next generation of entrepreneurs!

In my un-frugal days, I cared less about dropping $300 for a haircut. I’ve since learned to shop around. I’ve also noticed that no one is the wiser!

Below I’ve posted three pictures of myself with different haircuts. Can you tell which is the $300 haircut, the $50 haircut and the free haircut? Leave your comments and let me know if you think you can.

I’ll post the answers later this week.

In “My first steps toward financial security“, I showed you the first few steps I took on my mission to financial security. In this post I provide you with the knowledge needed to review and correct any errors in your credit report. Taking these steps, will boost your credit rating and ultimately save you money!

1. Names:  Review all names associated with your report. If you do not recognize a name or  the name is misspelled contact the credit bureau and have it corrected or deleted immediately. An erroneous name can be a simple misspelling or an attempt by another individual to apply for credit in your name, in the end both can cause problems.

2. Home Address: Review all addresses on file. If you do not recognize an address, contact the credit bureau and have it removed.  An incorrect address, just like an unknown name, can be signs that an address was incorrectly entered or an attempt by another individual to apply for credit in your name. I will speak a bit more on this topic in a future post.

3. Dates:Dates are very important. Each states has different guidelines on dates. In my post I will discuss NY dates, however, below you can view dates for individual states. I obtained the chart from bankrate.com. 

(a) Inquiries can be removed after 2 years. If you find an inquiry which has been on your report longer, have it removed. Removing the item will give your credit score a boost.

(b) Late fees can be removed after six years. If you find a late fee that is set to expire, contact the credit bureau and have it removed. Removing the item will give your credit score a boost.

(c) *Collections and charge offs can remain on your report for six years. If you find an item that is older than six years, contact the credit bureau and have them remove the collection/charge off. Removing the item will give your credit score an immediate boost.

4. Remove accounts that are over 10 years old (not recommended for everyone): I needed to do this because I had more than 25 credit card accounts, as well as student loans, a mortgage and a car note. When I obtained my credit score, the three bureaus stated that the score was lowered because of the number of accounts I had available, as well as the total amount of credit available to me.  However, you should not remove accounts if you do not have as many as I did, as it will lower your credit score. Also, note, decreasing the amount of credit available to you, without decreasing the amount of debt owed, will definitely cause your score to lower.

*NOTE: When challenging a collection do not admit to any charge until you have requested visual proof. Once you admit that a charge is yours, you will not be able to remove it and the clock will start ticking anew.

Per Bankrate.com:

Once a debt passes beyond the statute of limitation in your state, a debt collector no longer has the right to sue you for payment. You may still have a moral obligation to pay back an old, forgotten debt, but you can’t be sued over it.

 To read more on individual state Statutes of Limitations (Date Guidelines), click HERE and HERE.   When contacting the credit bureaus, be prepared and informed. Know your rights as a borrower and your individual state’s statutes, then use it to empower yourself!

This is a Latinalicious freebie that everyone should take advantage of! I’m jumping on it myself!

Just enter the gift code, which is peoplefirst. You will receive an activation code. The activation code will give you access to the new on-line version of the Ultimate Protection Portfolio / Will & Trust Kit for free.

Click  here: Suze Orman Will and Trust Kit

I started my financial journey about five years ago. My spending had gotten out of control!  I splurged in many ways: shopping, dining out, vacations, splurging on my boys and friends, spending thousands on holidays and birthdays, and even more then I should have on haircuts ($300), massages ($250), manisand pedicures ($75)! Why? Because I felt I needed those items, to make myself feel beautiful, to have fun, to live life to the fullest. I have since learned that I don’t! In my journey, my mission to financial security, I not only paid off $60,000 in debt, I found myself!

There were several steps that I took, I’ve noted the first few below.  Note: I am not a professional, don’t claim to be,  so what I am sharing here is what has worked for ME in my own mission to obtain financial security. 

1. Take stock of your assets (money coming in) and liabilities (money going out). Make a list, including each item on your list.   This makes it so much easier to keep tally!

2. Obtain your FREE annual credit report(s) at AnnualCreditReport.com. You can choose to get all three at once or spread them out as I do so that you get one every 4 months.

3. Review your credit report for any discrepancies. Make sure you check amounts and account numbers against the list of liabilities you created. Also review your  previous place of residence, past employers, and name(s). If you find that there is an error in any or all of these in your report, contact the reporting agency immediately and start an inquiry. NOTE: If  you ordered one report as I suggested in #2 and discover a discrepancy, make sure to order the other two reports and review those as well.

4. I placed a freeze on my credit, since I knew freezing my cards in the fridge wouldn’t work. This made it harder for me to apply for any credit, which I did quite often! At one point, I even had 25 credit cards!  Freezing your credit is NOT for the faint of heart. A credit freeze, normally used to thwart identity theft, will not allow you to obtain any new credit.  You must contact each credit bureau directly to place a freeze on your account.  A freeze also involves a  fee, which varies based on state. You can click below for amounts.  If you want to remove the freeze, or “thaw” your account, you will have to contact each bureau directly and pay for the thaw. Below I have noted info for each credit bureau.

(a) Equifax : To place a credit freeze or to read more, click HERE. NY is free for first freeze, $5 .00 ($5.41  with tax) for subsequent freezes and removals. Click  State Freeze Requirements  and Fees to determine fees for your state. 

(b) Experian: To place a credit freeze or to read more click HERE. NY is free for first freeze, $5 .00 ($5.41  with tax) for subsequent freezes and removals. Click HERE to determine fees for your state.

(c) TransUnion: To place a credit freeze or to read more click HERE. NY is free for first freeze, $5.00 ($5.41  with tax) for subsequent freezes and removals. Click HERE to determine fees for your state. 

5. Open up a savings account, a new one! I suggest opening a new one because psychologically it makes it feel like a fresh start, a new beginning, which you ARE starting by taking control. I like ING Direct . It allows you to set up a direct deposit AND set a name for the account becausewords ARE important. I have three: All Mine, House (for my future home), and Peru/DR! Thesewords speak to me on a personal leveland keep me focused on my goal. You can change the title of your account as often as you like. Another benefit of ING, or con, depending on how you look at it, is that it can take up to two days to get your money which makes you think twice about using it cause as mi mami always said “se te sala cuando sacas el dinero” and my mission is too important for me to take a chance!

*The literal translation of “se te sala cuando sacas el dinero” is it will get salty when you take out the money, which of course makes no sense! The phrase basically means that you will get used to taking the money out and will not save consistently, I think. In my mind its so clear but if you have a better explanation please leave a comment!

Necessities are such an expensive part of life but with theses Latinalicious coupons and freebies you should be able to save a bit of dinero to finance your summer fun!

Coupons:

Get rid of that winter dry skin with Dove Cream Oil Body Lotion. Click to get a $1.50 coupon HERE

Kmart In-Store $5 off $50 In-Store Coupon. Click HERE.

Rite-Aid $5 off any $25 purchase. Click HERE
 

Freebies:

FREE Sample of Dial Antibacterial Deodorant Soap- Click HERE

FREE Naturally Lotion, a new brand by Victoria’s Secret Click HERE, ends April 12. Thank you Mommy Kennedy for this Latinalicious freebie! Will be going to pick mine up during my lunch hour!

FREE Alterna Haircare product courtesy of Lucky Magazine. Click HERE

FREE Quaker Oats snack pack. Click HERE. I picked the chocolate! Yum!

Image from OC Register

I recently completed a bowling shop at 300 New York, which paid me for the review and reimbursed me for the outing. I was able to take both of my sons on the shop. We bowled two games and ate at the venue. It was Latinalicious! They had impeccable service. We were walked to the shoe rental area where our server gave us our shoes and individual bowling balls. He even gave me a pink one- totally girlie! He then walked us over to our lane, entered our info and let us know someone would come to get our order soon. They did! We ordered a pie and for dessert a chocolate cake. It was de-li-ci-ous!

I received $15 for the shop and was reimbursed $80 for the cost of 2 people to play 2 games, with 2 shoe rentals and food/drinks. Since I am a single Mami and always looking for a fun and cheap night that both my boys will enjoy (the age difference kills me!), this was perfect for me. However, if I would have taken just 1 person the outing would have been free and I would have had some extra money in my pocket too.  With both boys I paid about $50 out of pocket, which is cheap by New York standards!

The venue was also PERFECT for a date and honestly your date would have never known you weren’t paying out of pocket for it (no cheap date drama!), since this shop required the shopper to pay up front for the outing. Reimbursement will be provided after a receipt is submitted, either by check or via PayPal.

In the end, it took me all of twenty minutes to complete the review. Not bad for a memorable night out with my boys!

Interested?! I’m sure you are! Thats why I’ve added a list of Mystery Shopping sites if you want to join. Just click HERE to be directed to the page.

On Wednesday, you can get a FREE Denny’s Grand Slamwich! But wait don’t start jumping up and down just yet, there is one catch…you must buy one to receive one for FREE. This deal is available from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, April 8. You can check the site for information by clicking HERE.

Denny’s Grand Slamwich has scrambled eggs, seasoned sausage, bacon, shaved ham, mayonnaise and American cheese grilled on potato bread with a maple spiced spread. The Grand Slamwich also include hash browns and normally costs $4.99. Hmm no cafe?! Ah bueno it still sounds yummy and for 5 pesos this breakfast for two does sound Latinaliciously CHEAP!

Now let me call my prima/cousin and head on over for an early Wednesday lunch cause at 770 calories & 44 grams of fat we will need all day to work this one off!

Some time back  I volunteered with an organization called All Stars Project, Inc., a non-profit organization that promotes the development of children, teens and young adults through educational and performing arts activities. The concept is one that appeared to work in the members I met. The students’ step showed their new found confidence, which may not have occurred without the program!

Although I can no longer volunteer with this particular organization, or any at the moment, I do like to remain in contact with the organizations and individuals I met along the way. This has turned out to be a good thing for you, my Latinalicious readers, because it allows me to bring you news you may not have heard otherwise, like this great opportunity to intern with a wonderful organization! Its a wonderful way to test out a particular field, to meet amazing people and make some useful contacts, of course, this is all secondary to helping others!

Internship openings are available in the following areas: 

Arts Management
Business/Finance
Community Organizing
Costumes and Wardrobe
Development
Marketing and Public Relations Program Management
Non-profit Management
Sales
Theatre Management
Theatre Production
Theatre Tech
Volunteer Program Management
Youth Development

You can read more about the program, the intern descriptions and the requirements by clicking HERE. You can also contact Jenny Zak, Summer Internship Manager, at jzak@allstars.org. NOTE: Applications are due no later than Monday, April 13th.

Click to see a video created by the All Star’s 2008 Interns

Is it me or does it just seem like this week just flew on by?! I think it was all the excitement of my Graduation that made it go by faster. Can you believe that today, Friday, makes 3 days. Yay Me!

Of course to celebrate my three day Anniversary ( I know I’m too sentimental!) I had to let you know about some Latinaliciosly freebies! Can’t stop the custom that I started on blogspot can I?!

FREE Items

FREE Events:

FREE Food:

FREE with Purchase:

“Round and round we go, where we stop nobody knows… round and round we go…” Have you heard that children’s ditty? I used to sing it all the time when I was younger and when I do my finances I can imagine my money in a circle; hence, the tab title “Money Circle”.

Its all connected, a never ending circle, that involves all members in our family. That’s why when I found out about this program in Little Man’s school I decided to post it. It looks like a really great opportunity for our NYC Teens, although I am sure there must be similar programs in other states I do not have it on hand. If needed, shoot me an e-mail and I will do some research!

Andrew Morrison of Small Business Camp and Stacie N.C. Grant of C&G Enterprises, have partnered together to create an Inaugural Small Business Camp for Teens. The conference is FREE to students and parents within the NYC area. It will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2009 from 8:00am-5:00pm, at the Frederick Douglass Academy I, 2581 Seventh Avenue (corner of 150th Street), New York, NY.

Students and parents can register HERE . Note: There is only room for 1000 students from local NYC high schools, so act fast! I’m registering Big K today.

For Additional Information Contact: Stacie N.C. Grant, Conference Planner, Telephone: 718-525-6184 e-mail: stacie.grant@cgenterprisesonline.com

Recently, there has been a lot of hoopla in the news about starting your own business. It has been advertised that now is the time to venture out on your own. I certainly agree with stepping off the beaten path, however, what you may not have been aware of may hurt you if you are dependant on your unemployment benefits. It appears that most states will discontinue your unemployment benefits, currently set at 33 weeks in New York City, if you legally start your own business.

When you legally form a business, whether or not it turns a profit, you are considered gainfully employed and ineligible to receive unemployment benefits. This also holds true of individuals who had side businesses while they were employed full-time and have recently become unemployed. The state believes that time spent preparing the business for operation, marketing the business and operating the business constitutes employment, even if no profit is made, and therefor disqualify you from receiving unemployment benefits.

In New York City, there is an exemption for individuals who are enrolled in the Self Employment Assistance Program (SEAP). Individuals enrolled in the program can continue to receive their unemployment benefits. Enrollment in the program is based on your State’s profiling system. The profiling system determines which individuals will run out of unemployment benefits. Those deemed to fit that profile can receive unemployment benefits while starting their own business.  The State must grant you a written exemption BEFORE you start your own business or you risk losing your benefits.

Whether you are gainfully employed or not, you should always crunch your numbers before embarking on any business venture. However, when you are unemployed numbers are even more important.  One of the most crucial questions to ask  yourself is, ”Can I survive without unemployment benefits?” A negative answer does not necessarily mean that you should not venture out on your own, however, it does mean that you need to have an alternate source of income until your business begins to pull in a profit.

For more information on New York’s SEAP, click here, other states would have the information on their state’s websites.

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