Ale Zimmermann

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There may be unclaimed money in your name - here's how to find it

1 month ago | nbcboston.com | Ale Zimmermann |Bianca Beltran

It’s money that hasn’t been touched for years and while it sounds like a scam, unclaimed property is the real deal and rightfully belongs to millions of people. In the U.S., one in seven Americans have unclaimed property. In Massachusetts alone, there is over $3 billion dollars in waiting to be returned to their rightful owners. “Oftentimes what happens is that these unclaimed accounts are forgotten by the owner,” explained James Royal from Bankrate.
What's a 'cash cushion' and how can it get you out of living paycheck to paycheck?

1 month ago | nbcboston.com | Ale Zimmermann |Bianca Beltran

Ever feel like the paycheck disappears the moment it hits your checking account? In a recent Marketwatch survey, 57% of Americans say they’re living paycheck to paycheck. One unexpected expense can quickly put a dent in any bank account. But a simple, money-saving strategy can help build financial security. It’s called a cash cushion. Stream NBC10 Boston news for free, 24/7, wherever you are. Stephen Kates is a financial analyst at Bankrate.
How to give yourself an edge against AI when applying for jobs

1 month ago | nbcboston.com | Ale Zimmermann |Bianca Beltran

With headlines of layoffs and hiring freezes, finding a job can feel impossible. On top of that, more and more companies are relying on artificial intelligence to find the best candidates. Mo Kothawala is a 20-year-old soon-to-be college grad looking to enter the workforce. Also, looking for his next chapter is 50-year-old Brett Sandman. He's a seasoned logistics operations expert and retired from the Navy.
How scanning receipts on your phone can bring in some extra cash

1 month ago | nbcboston.com | Ale Zimmermann |Bianca Beltran

With just one snap and a quick upload, that grocery receipt can turn into an gift card, thanks to what are known as receipt scanning apps. "You're not going to be able to retire on this money, but it gives you a little bit of extra cash for that spending that you're already doing," said James Royal, a principal writer at Bankrate. Apps like Fetch Rewards, CoinOut and Frisbee allow users to earn cash back and other rewards for purchases, just by uploading a picture of a receipt.
Finding the best deals when shopping online

1 month ago | nbcboston.com | Ale Zimmermann |Bianca Beltran

Finding the best deals online can feel overwhelming. But if there's a box for a promo code at checkout, Kevin Brasler from Consumers' Checkbook says it's a sign consumers could be saving money. "We often say that when you're shopping on a website, if there's a space to enter a discount code or a coupon code, to us that screams like free money," Brasler said.
a new analysis reveals just how much it costs

2 months ago | nbcboston.com | Ale Zimmermann |Bianca Beltran

Our pets are more than companions - they're family. But just like any family member, they come with responsibilities, and sometimes, surprise expenses. In Massachusetts, owning a furry friend isn't cheap. A new report from Rover lists the commonwealth as the second most expensive state for dog parents - with the annual cost reaching just over $4,000. The prices of pet goods and services are expected to rise this year.
Dealing with pests at home? Here's what to know before calling pest control

2 months ago | nbcboston.com | Ale Zimmermann |Bianca Beltran

As the weather warms up, so do the bugs. But before calling pest control, there are few tips consumers should keep in mind to protect their home and wallet. Whether it's ants in the kitchen or a cockroach making a home in the bathroom - these uninvited tenants can make our skin crawl and wreak havoc on our home. But before calling in a professional to help to get rid of them, Consumers' Checkbook warns that rushing into a contract could lead to big regrets later on.
Putting your tax return to work

2 months ago | nbcboston.com | Ale Zimmermann |Bianca Beltran

The tax deadline has come and gone and soon millions of Americans will get a refund from the government. But before splurging on those new shoes, consider putting that money to work. According to the IRS, the average refund amount this year is more than $3,000. Smart shopping expert Trae Bodge recommends prioritizing paying down high-interest credit cards and building an emergency savings fund with that refund.
What are the most common tax scams and how to avoid them? – NBC Boston

Mar 21, 2025 | nbcboston.com | Ale Zimmermann

Some of the most common scams include bogus tax avoidance strategies, fake charities exploiting taxpayer generosity, false fuel credit claims, fraudulent...
Did you get a 1099-K form? Here's what it is and why more are going out this year

Feb 26, 2025 | nbcboston.com | Ale Zimmermann |Bianca Beltran

Taxpayers who made money online or through payment apps in 2024 might get a new tax form in the mail - a 1099-K. This form reports payments people receive through third-party platforms. But it doesn't mean people owe taxes on all of it. In the past, taxpayers would only get a 1099-K form if they made over $20,00 and had more than 200 transactions made online or through third-party platform. The threshold this year dropped to just $5,000 -- no transaction minimum required.