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  • S-corp vs. C-corp, summarized
  • How does OASDI tax work?
  • How much should you tip an Uber driver?
  • 7 free tax filing options
  • What to look for in cruise insurance
  • Why we impulse buy
  • Average 401(k) balance by age
  • Where to buy Treasury bonds, notes or bills 
  • Uninsured vs. underinsured motorist coverage
  • Price differences between basic economy and economy tickets
  • Apps most like Airbnb for cars
  • SFO Air Canada lounge food and beverage options
  • How to use the pre-qualification calculator
  • Best-performing marijuana ETFs
  • What is infinite banking?
  • Your local funding guide to Michigan small business loans
  • What to expect flying economy with Cathay Pacific
  • Full retirement age for Social Security
  • Why mortgage rates change every day
  • At a glance
  • Examples of personal finance in everyday life
  • Compare car insurance rates by age
  • 20 high-dividend stocks
  • Federal Reserve: Commercial bank rates for credit card plans
  • Types of inflation
  • TransUnion credit freeze online
  • What are the 2024 IRMAA brackets?
  • Ways to avoid seat selection fees
  • Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card : Key details
  • What are American Airlines Loyalty Points?
  • 5 steps t o get preapproved for a home loan
  • What kind of medical expenses are tax deductible?
  • Do I have to pay Arizona state income tax?
  • Our picks for the best return-of-premium life insurance companies in February 2024
  • 1. It's loaded with fees
  • Hawaiian Airlines cancellation policy
  • 1. Check your calendar
  • What is Breeze Airways’ cancellation policy?
  • How high-interest loans are harmful
  • How does QuickBooks Online work?
  • 2. Find a coupon database or a browser extension
  • Cheapest DUI insurance by company
  • Impact investing vs. socially responsible investing
  • Does spending more money build credit faster?
  • 20 popular tax deductions and tax breaks
  • USAA business insurance pros and cons
  • What is a Southwest Airlines Companion Pass?
  • How is Venmo taxed?
  • 1. Estimate retirement income needs
  • What is the 401(k) early withdrawal penalty?
  • What does gap insurance cover?
  • The average stock market return isn't always average
  • Best alternative credit cards
  • What is IRS Free File?
  • How to find out who owns your student loans
  • 2. Get your finances in order
  • Short-term capital gains tax for crypto
  • Paperwork required if your passport has a maiden name
  • What it looks like
  • How to choose the best crypto wallet
  • Credit freeze vs. lock
  • 1. Is this system a fit for your business?
  • 2. Learn more about your 401(k)
  • How to spend $4,000
  • Buying on margin example
  • When to choose a money market account over a CD
  • Vending machine costs
  • What you can dispute
  • How are bonuses taxed?
  • Why the Quicksilver is better for most people
  • What does a virtual assistant do?
  • 1. Build credit
  • Why buy dividend stocks?
  • 2. Get your 401(k) match
  • Differences between mutual funds and index funds
  • DIY debt settlement vs. debt settlement companies
  • How employee stock options work
  • 2. VA renovation loan
  • 2. Place a fraud alert if you can't freeze right now
  • Why do dealers charge reconditioning fees?
  • Home prices are holding
  • Benefits of upgrading a Citi credit card
  • How does Bitcoin work?
  • Credit cards with a Delta Companion Certificate perk
  • Where can I get a cashier’s check?
  • What is the current Fed interest rate?
  • Ways to earn money as a younger kid
  • What does a financial consultant do?
  • How to become a Disney travel agent
  • Capital One airline transfer partners
  • 1. Tax planning starts with understanding your tax bracket
  • What credit cards offer Citi car rental insurance?
  • ETF advantages and disadvantages
  • Mercury home insurance star rating
  • State availability
  • Investment portfolios and risk tolerance
  • Why are gas prices going up?
  • What is the 50/30/20 rule?
  • What happens if you fall below your school's SAP requirement?
  • What are AI stocks?
  • What is the average American net worth?
  • The basics of the Jasper Mastercard®
  • Why the DOT is penalizing Southwest
  • What is Genie?
  • YNAB, for hands-on zero-based budgeting
  • Regular savings accounts
  • How put options work
  • Income limits for contributing to both an IRA and a 401(k)
  • Do I have to pay Virginia state income tax?
  • How does a living trust work?
  • How we ranked the top life insurers
  • What is the dividend tax rate?
  • 2. Reduce your internet speed for a lower price
  • Marriott Bonvoy credit card comparison
  • Where The Hanover stands out
  • 2. Crowdfunding platforms
  • Do you need to put 20% down on a house?
  • How an HSA works
  • What impacts salary after coding bootcamp?
  • When are state income taxes due?
  • Who is a qualifying child?
  • A closer look at Delta credit card offers
  • What you'll need to apply for income-driven repayment
  • What income is tax-free income?
  • How does a home equity loan work?
  • 2. Good partnerships
  • How to call American Airlines customer service
  • What should my monthly grocery budget be?
  • Best-performing REIT mutual funds: February 2024
  • How much is car insurance?
  • Liability insurance
  • What is Colorado’s standard deduction?
  • 2. There’s no additional cost
  • How to calculate your home equity
  • How does a Roth IRA work?
  • Are robo-advisors worth it?
  • Ways to calculate cost basis
  • Two ways to maximize Chase Ultimate Rewards® points
  • Value investing defined
  • How to approach October sales
  • Calculator: Convert IHG points to dollars
  • Best day to fly
  • How to start a business with a friend: What to do
  • Considering other offers? Be honest
  • Weigh DIY payoff methods
  • Best car insurance in New York overall: Travelers
  • Disney's fleet of cruise ships
  • How state income tax rates work
  • NerdWallet's car insurance estimator
  • Financing options for small businesses
  • Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
  • Charging costs
  • How does the SENTRI Pass work?
  • How to earn a return in a Roth IRA
  • Fed's eyes are set on inflation
  • Ask your bank for a refund
  • Where do I cash in a savings bond?
  • Types of Wi-Fi on cruise ships
  • For credit unions, a road less traveled
  • ETFs vs. stocks: A quick breakdown
  • Who is Warren Buffett?
  • PMI vs. MIP
  • A glimpse into the retirement gap
  • How does earnest money work?
  • Club room award chart
  • How to calculate your modified adjusted gross income
  • Where The Hartford/AARP stands out
  • 1. The annual fee is ridiculous
  • What’s happening to Mint?
  • What is a credit card hardship program?
  • Where are layoffs happening?
  • Term life insurance vs. AD&D: How they work
  • Cash back cards
  • Where Mercury stands out
  • 1. Pay credit card balances strategically
  • What is Medallion status on Delta?
  • Money orders: Pros and cons
  • What else you need to know about Southwest Business Select
  • How to open a brokerage account for your kid
  • Are auto loan interest rates rising?
  • Which one is important to know for savings accounts?
  • How long is graduate school?
  • Median retirement savings balance by age
  • Can you buy OpenAI stock?
  • How to write a late payment removal letter
  • How much should I save?
  • Recent averages for factors that affect a car payment
  • Do you pay taxes on a 1099-MISC?
  • 2. Enter your personal information
  • What does credit life insurance cover?
  • Banks that offer personal loans
  • Savings bond calculator
  • Installment loan calculator
  • What are the differences between an S-corp vs. C-corp?
  • Types of stock trading
  • When are estimated taxes due?
  • Does Spirit have first class?
  • The self-employment tax rate for 2024
  • 2. You can get an incentive to keep your current card
  • What's next?
  • How to pay extra on car loan principal
  • What is the SALT deduction?
  • 2. Write your address in the purchaser section
  • How to earn Marriott Platinum elite status
  • 2. The Coupons App
  • How to search for awards using Point.me
  • Types of semiconductor ETFs
  • Is there a Sam’s Club Membership discount?
  • How much does TSA PreCheck cost?
  • State sales tax
  • 2. You may need an offer by mail to apply
  • Best AI ETFs by one-year performance
  • How we chose the cheapest companies in Michigan
  • JetBlue Blue vs. Blue Extra
  • AmEx Membership Rewards overview
  • Why travelers will prefer the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card  
  • 2. Use money tips to accelerate your savings
  • Pour-over will example
  • How to write a follow-up email after no response
  • How tax-deductible donations work
  • What does car insurance cover?
  • How to read your escrow analysis
  • Mortgage interest tax deduction example
  • A weekend or holiday impacted the schedule

2. Describe your company

  • How a Kikoff Credit Account line of credit works
  • Best for member satisfaction: AARP/UnitedHealthcare Medicare Part D
  • Today’s HELOC rates
  • Costs — and acceptance — vary widely
  • How life insurance rates are determined
  • Why invest in small-cap ETFs?
  • Keep careful records
  • Take advantage of the triple tax benefit
  • 9 steps in financial planning
  • Are promotional CD rates worth it?
  • How P2P payments work
  • How much Best Western points are worth
  • Grace period
  • What reasons can you withdraw from your 401(k) early?
  • RV loan calculator
  • Price out insurance
  • Financial advisor fees by service
  • Student loans
  • How much American Airlines miles are worth
  • 2. Ongoing rewards
  • When ITA Matrix is the best tool to search for flights
  • Rocket Lawyer benefits and drawbacks
  • 2. Consider your tolerance for risk
  • When to use a credit freeze
  • Active vs. passive mutual funds
  • Terminal 1: Air France Lounge, Lufthansa lounges and more
  • 5 blockchain stocks to consider
  • Business tax ID number lookup: Your 3 best options
  • 3. Pay down high-interest debt
  • How to evaluate credit card APRs
  • Who qualifies for Agent Orange compensation?
  • How does a 401(k) work?
  • How to select seats on American Airlines flights
  • 2. Lounge access policies vary
  • When are limited partnerships useful?
  • Cheap(er) cell phone plans from Verizon, T-Mobile and AT&T
  • Check your number online
  • Learn more about life insurance for families
  • More about budgeting
  • 3. Do I qualify for any down payment assistance programs?
  • Why Chase Freedom Flex℠ wins for most
  • What does it mean to be someone's executor?
  • How can I get a cashier’s check?
  • Rewards rate (value depends on your spending habits)
  • Why your car insurance is so high
  • You’ll rack up bigger interest charges
  • What are the AMT tax rates?
  • 1. Ask for ACT and SAT fee waivers
  • Best-performing growth stocks
  • Do kids need TSA PreCheck?
  • How much is Wi-Fi on Southwest?
  • When to consider a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage
  • Freezing your Experian credit report online
  • What is the difference between TSA PreCheck and Global Entry?
  • How does probate work?
  • HODLing as an investment strategy
  • Can an HSA be used for Medicare premiums?
  • How do lottery taxes work?
  • Things to know about the Hawaiian Airlines award chart
  • 2. Decide where to complain
  • What is a mega backdoor Roth?
  • 2. Both earn the same ongoing rewards
  • What is a reasonable wedding budget?
  • Hulu add-ons
  • How does capital gains tax work?
  • How much is the 2023 child tax credit?
  • Your identity theft deterrent kit
  • Government grants for nonprofits
  • Citi ThankYou® points: The basics
  • 5 steps for retirement planning
  • National Processing features
  • Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
  • Information you need to freeze your credit
  • How do you calculate closing costs on a house?
  • Delta SkyMiles calculator
  • When should I use Kiwi for a flight booking?
  • Is condo insurance required?
  • 2. List your debts and payments
  • How do Vanguard index funds work?
  • Average Disney World vacation cost for a family of 4
  • Beware the price tag
  • How does EarlyBird Check-In work?
  • Median 401(k) balance by age
  • The cheapest large car insurance company: State Farm
  • Meme stock history
  • Budget planner
  • 2. Determine the value of your car
  • What does uninsured motorist coverage pay for?
  • 3. Place a fraud alert on your credit record, if necessary
  • Paying early could help your credit
  • U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card
  • Tips to find a Global Entry appointment
  • How telematics insurance works
  • If your 600 credit score is rising
  • Types of ACH transfers
  • Are my donations to a GoFundMe tax-deductible?
  • What to look for in a credit counseling agency
  • When do you pay capital gains tax on a home sale?
  • Does brokerage cash earn interest?
  • What’s the coverage difference between Plan F and Plan G?
  • Personalized versus average interest rates
  • Tips for applying for a passport renewal by mail
  • Popular credit cards with travel insurance
  • Types of home insurance coverage
  • 2. Get free overseas data using T-Mobile and Sprint
  • How to calculate a factor rate
  • How credit card interest rates are determined
  • 3. Great lounges
  • How do I fund my Venmo account?
  • What is a mutual fund?
  • How to choose a brokerage account provider
  • Dress code tips for passport photo
  • How to open a custodial Roth IRA for kids
  • Best-performing REIT ETFs: February 2024
  • Can you get a passport without a birth certificate?
  • What counts as 'travel' for Chase
  • Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card vs. competitors
  • No annual fee
  • Why invest in blue-chip stocks
  • How FICA tax works
  • Best-performing tech stocks
  • Selling stuff
  • Priority boarding zones
  • What types of institutions offer early direct deposit?
  • 2. Search your email
  • 2. But it only earns 2% back if you redeem rewards into a 529 plan
  • Individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN)
  • How does QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus work?
  • Business insurance products available through USAA
  • But I think I can get more for my car
  • How to manually calculate how much life insurance you need
  • Create a savings reserve
  • Best for no credit
  • Tax credits for solar panels
  • Marriott points calculator
  • 2. Hoi An, Vietnam
  • 2. Health insurance (maybe) deduction
  • FHA appraisal checklist
  • 7 best hot wallets
  • Zero-based budgeting example
  • Is there a federal inheritance tax?
  • 2. It will all move very quickly
  • When to get a financial advisor
  • How much money do I need to buy a house?
  • 2. Pay off debt
  • Where to stash your emergency fund
  • Can I transfer my Apple Card balance to a different credit card?
  • Who can access The Club lounges?
  • Pros and cons of investing in consumer discretionary stocks
  • 2. Redemption options are varied
  • Jumbo loan requirements
  • 1. Complimentary elite status
  • Travel insurance plans offered by AIG Travel Guard
  • Make your bonus worth more toward travel
  • Types of startup business funding
  • 2. Research and identify your car’s must-have features
  • Factor in possible savings from buying a used EV
  • How to invest in commodity ETFs
  • Medicare supplement Plan G pros and cons
  • Disney Cruise Line prices
  • What can I do if I slip up?
  • What do I do with my 1099-MISC?
  • 1. Ongoing rewards are mediocre ...
  • 1. Brigit: Best for budgeting tools
  • How does Southwest boarding work?
  • Cheap car insurance in Massachusetts for 20-year-olds
  • February mortgage rates forecast
  • How loan terms and rates affect monthly payments
  • How many credit cards should I have?
  • How to choose between an IRA and a 401(k)
  • Impulse buying vs. compulsive shopping
  • ZenBusiness pricing
  • First things first: Check your IRA eligibility
  • Day 2: Visit museums and memorials
  • Mortgage payoff calculator help
  • 3. Include your account number if you're paying a bill
  • Another money-change option: Online currency converters
  • World Nomads single trip plans
  • The pros and cons of a life insurance trust
  • Where The Hanover falls short
  • Marijuana ETFs vs. stocks
  • What full coverage car insurance covers
  • 2. Your car has excess wear and tear
  • How to pay for a bankruptcy
  • Gift tax limit 2023
  • Investing for income: Dividend stocks vs. dividend funds
  • What qualifies as mortgage interest?
  • Pros and cons of family loans
  • AAdvantage elite status requirements and timing
  • How to book Main Cabin Extra
  • If you pay for a credit monitoring service
  • Preapproval is not the same as pre-qualification
  • QR code payments pros and cons
  • Other rules for the medical expense deduction
  • Can I get both SSDI and SSI?
  • Perks you still get in basic economy
  • Tally and report your tips every month
  • Chime Secured Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card
  • What does a life insurance illustration include?
  • Should you compare mortgage rate or APR?
  • Who is eligible for Free File?
  • Medical expenses
  • How the Booking.com price match works
  • What information do you need to complete the Common App?
  • 3. Look into an IRA
  • When to choose a CD over a money market account
  • How much is a SENTRI Pass?
  • How to start a vending machine business: A step-by-step guide
  • What you shouldn’t dispute
  • 2. Identify which type of credit card you need
  • Stop using the account
  • ESG ETFs: The cheapest ESG funds
  • How much does gender-affirming surgery cost?
  • RMD table 2024
  • 4. Start funding an IRA
  • Big Island at a glance
  • Getting an investment property mortgage
  • Terminal 1: United Club lounge
  • DAS eligibility
  • How to buy a second home
  • What are the benefits of Amazon Prime?
  • Extended warranty protection
  • Is an executor the same as a trustee?
  • Standard suites award chart
  • Where The Hartford/AARP falls short
  • How to buy an ETF
  • How you can prepare for the end of Mint
  • Is a debt management plan right for you?
  • Where Mercury falls short
  • Find out what your car is worth
  • What is covered by Citi car rental insurance?
  • Which businesses need a DBA?
  • How to measure inflation
  • How the cash stuffing method works
  • How to build an investment portfolio
  • NerdWallet’s budget planner
  • Example of the difference between APY and interest rate
  • How can I save money on electric car insurance?
  • 2. Shop around online
  • How to regain eligibility for financial aid
  • Other ways to contact a real person at the IRS
  • 3. Request a credit report or reports
  • 3. Build a budget that works for your expenses
  • Average net worth by age
  • How Fidelity CDs work
  • What is on a Schedule C form?
  • How the standard deduction works
  • Earned income tax credit 2023
  • How to invest in gold ETFs
  • How to fix your credit reports afterward
  • How does OASDI tax work if I’m self-employed?
  • When will I get my tax refund in 2024?
  • How much do Uber drivers make per hour?
  • 1. IRS Free File
  • How to calculate self-employment tax
  • 2. Set an offer price
  • 3. You got a retention bonus
  • What are qualified and nonqualified dividends?
  • Solo 401(k) contribution limits
  • Merchant fees for a bounced check
  • 4. Call your banks to freeze your accounts, if necessary
  • SIMPLE IRA contribution limits for 2023
  • Basic economy rules by airline
  • How to buy semiconductor ETFs
  • What is the difference between Sam’s Club memberships?
  • 3. Residential real estate
  • How does infinite banking work?
  • Benefits of after-tax contributions
  • 3. Get ready to pay some fees
  • Discretionary income explained
  • Reevaluate your budget
  • Why your full retirement age matters
  • 2024 tax deadlines to know
  • 2. Choose hands-on or hands-off investing
  • Ways to lower your monthly mortgage payment
  • Starting with education is best
  • Best car insurance companies: Our winners
  • What data do the credit bureaus maintain?
  • Learn about more life insurers
  • Do I have to pay Colorado state income tax?
  • Am I a resident for Arizona state income tax purposes?
  • Should I buy stocks when markets are at all-time highs?
  • Overdraft protection
  • The best airline of 2024
  • 2. The interest rate is alarmingly high
  • 3. Call your company
  • Delta first class
  • 3. Read the fine print
  • How do IHG points compare with other hotels?
  • Carrying a balance is costly
  • Why does Venmo need my tax information?
  • Day trading strategies
  • How does gap insurance work?
  • How a no closing cost mortgage works
  • 5-year, 10-year, 20-year and 30-year S&P 500 returns
  • Understanding margin calls
  • Building foundations
  • Limited FHA 203(k) loans
  • When are state income tax returns due?
  • Roth IRA contribution limits 2024
  • Think about health savings accounts
  • Steps to fill out the FAFSA for citizens with undocumented immigrant parents
  • How much do virtual assistants make?
  • Dividend vs. growth stocks
  • SCAN Health Plan Medicare star ratings
  • 3. VA loan for energy efficiency
  • 3. Check all 3 credit reports
  • How does Bitcoin make money?
  • 6 fast ways to send money in a crisis
  • Do I need a fraud alert?
  • 4. What is my interest rate?
  • 1. Your personal characteristics
  • How to find a financial consultant
  • Calculating net worth: What are assets and liabilities?
  • AmEx Platinum travel insurance benefits and limits
  • Work some side hustles
  • How to use average car interest rates
  • Should you tip all kinds of massage therapists?
  • Are these the best stocks to buy now?
  • What are the disadvantages of a 10-year ARM?
  • 1850 Speakeasy Bar
  • What day is my March 2024 payment coming?
  • Determining individual employee salaries
  • 529 plans by state
  • Title insurance
  • Lifetime learning credit
  • When to choose a money market account over a savings account
  • Small bank loans
  • How to earn Hilton elite status
  • What other forecasters say
  • Are all gambling winnings taxable?
  • What does a condo association’s insurance policy cover?
  • How to shop for homeowners insurance
  • How to fill out a 1040 form
  • Am I a resident for Virginia state income tax purposes?
  • What’s the difference between the Spirit Big Front Seat vs. exit row seats?
  • Factors we considered when picking the best cruise insurance companies
  • Best life insurance companies: Pros and cons
  • Which costs less, a cashier’s check or a money order?
  • What credit cards give you Marriott Platinum status?
  • What’s behind the pre-qualification calculation?
  • What items need to have sales tax?
  • Minimum down payment requirements
  • Why is a business budget important?
  • 1. The charity scam
  • Types of AI ETFs
  • Cheap car insurance in Michigan for 20-year-olds
  • 3. Your car is worth more than its buyout price
  • 13 fundamentals of personal finance
  • The most common types of home insurance policies
  • Pros and cons of a lady bird deed
  • AmEx Platinum vs. Chase Sapphire Reserve: Deciding factors
  • How to choose the best mutual funds for you
  • Can you chat with American Airlines?
  • Transfer Apple Cash to a debit card instantly
  • How to start a cleaning business in 7 steps
  • 2. Find your 401(k) with your Social Security number
  • What can I use instead of a birth certificate for passport applications?
  • What kind of medical expenses are not tax deductible?
  • 3. Damage due to theft or collision is covered
  • Path to a higher credit limit
  • Financial institutions with early direct deposit
  • Determine how much you'll pay
  • Prepare for long-term care
  • How to trade options in four steps
  • Growth investing defined
  • Where can I find promotional rates?
  • 2. Consider common rules of thumb
  • Secured vs. unsecured RV loans
  • Search functionality
  • How to estimate car insurance costs
  • The top 7 dividend aristocrats list
  • Cons to investing in CDs
  • Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
  • Inheritance taxes vs. estate taxes
  • JetBlue partner airlines and hotel partners
  • Episode transcript
  • Bonus tax rate: How much are bonuses taxed?
  • What other forecasters predict
  • What documents do I need to cash a savings bond?
  • Why the Chase trifecta is better for most people
  • The difference between simple interest and compound interest
  • Who qualifies for these SCRA benefits?
  • The value when transferring to partners
  • 3. Dedicated space for military service members 
  • Stock mutual funds
  • What is Berkshire Hathaway?
  • What does travel insurance NOT cover?
  • How do mortgage points work?
  • Why age affects your car insurance rates
  • Why are eggs so expensive?
  • 2. Earn automatic Pearl status
  • 2. You’ll earn points, but no bonus
  • Where to find a credit card hardship program
  • Why you should apply for Global Entry first
  • What are the penalties for using an HSA with Medicare?
  • Medallion levels at a glance
  • Southwest seat size
  • 3. Write your complaint
  • How much of your income should go toward a mortgage?
  • Mega backdoor Roth 2024
  • What Medigap Plan G covers
  • How to plan a wedding on a budget
  • How to set up bill pay
  • What is long-term capital gains tax?
  • Which taxes might come into play
  • Goodwill letter template
  • 529s are for college (and K-12, too)
  • New York state supplemental income tax
  • How credit scores affect monthly car payments
  • 4. Successfully answer security questions
  • Alternatives to credit life insurance
  • See CD rates by bank
  • What is Genie+?
  • Buying a put option
  • How to trade stocks
  • Estimated tax payments 2024
  • Are Vanguard index funds a good investment?
  • Average 401(k) contribution rates
  • Is there a way to lower a monthly car payment?
  • 5. Consider whether to file an insurance claim
  • 4. Sign the bottom where it says 'purchaser’s signature'
  • How long do ACH transfers take?
  • TSA PreCheck benefits
  • How to use your brokerage cash
  • Tips for applying for a passport renewal in person
  • 3. Keep down payment savings in the right account
  • HSA-eligible expenses
  • How Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cards work
  • How to stocks earn a return
  • Understanding biotech ETF holdings
  • You're receiving back payments
  • Should I choose a home equity loan or a HELOC?
  • 4. Technological advancements
  • What are Venmo's fees?
  • TransUnion credit freeze by postal mail
  • How investing pays off later
  • 5 reasons why a Roth IRA can be right for minors
  • How do REITs work?
  • What is a Bitcoin strategy ETF?
  • How ADUs are like swimming pools
  • Chase transfer bonus history
  • What is withholding tax?
  • About home equity loans
  • What can you invest in with a Roth IRA?
  • Know how the math works
  • 4. Contact the IRS
  • Best Western vs. competitors
  • How to get a Companion Pass faster
  • Consider debt consolidation to get out of debt faster
  • Look into facilities with benevolent funds
  • 2. You won't want to carry a balance
  • How do Marriott Bonvoy points compare to other hotel programs?
  • 3. Tirana, Albania
  • Disney cruise costs
  • 3. Make a plan for the down payment
  • Roth IRA income limits 2024
  • Changing the name on your passport
  • Alternatives to Rocket Lawyer
  • When to choose a savings account instead
  • 3. You’ll face stiff competition shopping for a replacement home
  • 2. If a collection is on your report in error, dispute it
  • What mortgage can I afford?
  • Use these tips to avoid overdrafts
  • What to expect from credit cards with low APRs
  • Pricing and features
  • QuickBooks subreddit
  • How much does it cost?
  • Traditional 401(k) vs. Roth 401(k)
  • What the saver’s credit is worth
  • How much can you make while on Social Security Disability Insurance?
  • 3. You can get a small sign-up bonus
  • American Airlines
  • How does the Delta companion ticket work
  • Premium suites award chart
  • Your credit scores could suffer
  • How to find growth stocks
  • Multiple redemption options
  • How can I buy a money order?
  • APY to interest rate calculator
  • Other grad school considerations
  • Who should use credit unions with shared branching?
  • Does Hulu allow password sharing?
  • Why is OpenAI in the news so often?
  • Where do I put my emergency fund?
  • What if a cyberattack keeps me from paying my mortgage?
  • 1099-MISC vs. 1099-NEC
  • How to fill out Schedule C
  • What makes the Jasper Mastercard® different
  • How do Delta miles compare with other airlines?
  • Prepare to pay back your refund
  • Types of installment loans
  • Why haven't I received my tax refund?
  • What happens if you don’t tip?
  • How to book a better all-inclusive
  • Types of credit
  • Who has to pay self-employment tax?
  • How to get free EarlyBird Check-In on Southwest
  • 4. You're carrying a balance
  • 3. Evaluate your credit
  • Citi Simplicity® Card
  • 3. ShopSavvy
  • Major differences between basic economy and economy inclusions
  • Where to exchange currency outside the U.S.
  • Foreign transaction fees by bank or credit union
  • The risks of marijuana ETFs
  • JetBlue Basic vs. Blue Plus
  • How your credit score affects your rate
  • How to size your business
  • Advantages of pour-over wills
  • Utility stock cons
  • Do SBA loans require collateral?
  • Food and drink in ANA premium economy
  • Best insurance company overall: Travelers
  • Find the best life insurers
  • Official passports
  • Best return-of-premium life insurance policies: Pros and cons
  • SSI vs. SSDI: Key differences
  • Overdraft fees by institution
  • The pros and cons of investing in tech stocks
  • What to do if Breeze cancels your flight
  • Updates to the FDCPA rules
  • 3. You can earn a small sign-up bonus
  • Should you refinance?
  • Which P2P payment service should you use ?
  • GoodTrust: Best for digital assets
  • Impact investing strategy
  • Average daily balance
  • Defend your credit
  • Best car insurance in New York for your budget: Progressive
  • Basic stock chart terms to know
  • Complicated spouses
  • Standard FHA 203(k) loans
  • 3. Anniversary nights
  • Long-term capital gains tax for crypto
  • How an FHA appraisal works
  • When to use a credit lock
  • 2. Does it do what you need it to do?
  • How do I get a SENTRI Pass?
  • 3. Save for an emergency
  • How are dividends paid out?
  • 5. Save for your other money goals
  • Good balance transfer cards
  • Mortgage selection tips
  • What are the odds of another interest rate increase?
  • The bear put spread
  • 4. Supplemental VA loans
  • Drawbacks to upgrading a Citi credit card
  • Is earnest money refundable?
  • How to place a fraud alert
  • Save money as a Disney vacation planner
  • Call your leasing company
  • Used EVs' batteries are important, but not scary
  • Child tax credit expansion: What the new tax deal could mean for you
  • What Biden's veto means for consumers
  • 3. You’ll get instant status, but keeping it long-term is pricey
  • 3. Comparison shop between brands (the discount ones aren't always cheapest)
  • American Airlines Arrivals Lounge Heathrow location and hours
  • What state has the highest gas prices?
  • Retirement savings by age
  • How to invest in AI stocks
  • Before you call
  • How to calculate your net worth
  • How do you deduct gambling losses?
  • Why might you decide to remain an authorized user?
  • OASDI limit 2023
  • Potential issues with having multiple credit cards
  • 3. Compare loan options
  • Wave Payroll pricing
  • 5 best-performing meme stocks
  • Which states require uninsured motorist coverage?
  • Look for must-have features
  • How to pay off a mortgage early
  • How much you can save
  • If your 600 credit score is dropping
  • Where do lottery prizes come from?
  • Do I need to pay gift taxes on the money I donate?
  • 4. Commercial real estate
  • 4. Neither card offers perks
  • How to buy AI ETFs
  • Compare car insurance rates for 20-year-olds
  • Alternatives to cash
  • What if I can't make the 2024 tax deadline?
  • 3. DIY investor? Use commission-free ETFs
  • Gift tax limit 2024
  • Whom do I contact about my American Airlines AAdvantage account?

3. State your business goals

  • Kikoff fees and penalties
  • Best for low premiums: Wellcare Medicare Part D
  • Should you get Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card ?
  • Avoid credit bureaus' products
  • How far in advance should I get preapproved for a mortgage?
  • Am I a resident for Colorado income tax purposes?
  • 2. Consider debt consolidation
  • How to claim the medical expense deduction
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • List of blue-chip stocks
  • 3. A credit limit increase involves a wait and a possible cost
  • Try a simple budgeting plan
  • Other rate boosts that aren’t promotional
  • 4. Learn your store’s coupon policy
  • Historical IHG point values
  • How a policy’s performance is calculated
  • Uncertain? Do the math
  • 4 more ways to estimate how much life insurance you need
  • How to meet your monthly savings goal
  • Definitions
  • Rebates to generate big savings — eventually
  • How does the IRS Free File program work?
  • Even if you say no, keep the door open
  • Who benefits from becoming an authorized user?
  • How to start a zero-based budget
  • How to become a virtual assistant
  • Is gender-affirming surgery covered by insurance?
  • RMD penalties
  • How to do a DIY debt settlement: Step by step
  • 2. Airport lounge access
  • You decide: Is Bitcoin a good investment?
  • How much does a cashier’s check cost?
  • 1,000 Marriott points per eligible stay (worth $7 each time)
  • 2. Request college application fee waivers
  • How to get upgraded Wi-Fi on Southwest for free
  • What to look for in a new budgeting app
  • 2. The difference between tax deductions and tax credits
  • Is a business line of credit right for me?
  • 2. Ask for higher credit limits
  • Inflation calculator
  • What if you're priced out of homebuying?
  • The Federal Trade Commission’s budget worksheet
  • Where can I get electric car insurance?
  • How does Hulu fit into your budget?
  • Goodwill letter vs. credit dispute letter
  • How to find the best stocks to buy now
  • Child tax credit 2024
  • How much are Citi ThankYou® points worth?
  • 5. Generate your credit report online
  • Prepaid 529 plans by state
  • Taxes and fees
  • I bonds calculator
  • Is HelloFresh worth it?
  • Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
  • How much is Spirit’s Big Front Seat?
  • How does a will work?
  • What can I use a home equity loan for? 
  • The cheapest midsize car insurance company: American National
  • Is Solo 401(k) tax deductible? Solo 401(k) tax advantages
  • Being put in a database due to a bounced check
  • Day 3: Hike Diamond Head State Monument
  • 5. Keep your receipt
  • 3. Negotiate with your internet provider for a better deal
  • How does a life insurance trust work?
  • How to know if TSA PreCheck is right for you
  • How is discretionary income calculated?
  • Advantages of HSAs
  • 3. Buy a local SIM card in your destination
  • How to convert a factor rate
  • Who to contact for more information
  • Ways to get a lower interest rate
  • 5. Simplicity of redeeming miles and gaining status
  • Cheap financial advice
  • TransUnion credit freeze by phone
  • Signs your child is credit-ready
  • Purchase protection
  • REITs' average return
  • Top 9 Bitcoin strategy ETFs by fee
  • Personal injury protection and medical payments coverage
  • Four examples of how QR codes can be used for payments
  • 4. Benefits apply for a limited number of days
  • Other payroll tax items you may hear about
  • Are Roth IRAs insured?
  • When you file your tax return, report your tips again
  • Employer identification number (EIN)
  • Earning Best Western Rewards points
  • What are the credit score ranges?
  • Is a no closing cost mortgage right for you?
  • What to expect the stock market to return
  • More advanced stock chart terms
  • What’s yours is mine
  • 3. Cardholders enjoy a longer return period and exclusive offers
  • Stacking up wins
  • American Airlines vs. competitors
  • 3. Continuing education deduction
  • Types of state income tax
  • 3. Use mutual funds for the base of your portfolio
  • How to invest in mutual funds
  • What should I expect from a financial advisor?
  • QuickBooks Facebook groups
  • The cost of cruise Wi-Fi
  • What are the different types of consumer discretionary stocks?
  • Limited partnership taxes
  • When to exercise stock options
  • Cheap cell phone plans from brands owned by the big three
  • Traditional IRA deduction rules
  • 4. Watch your credit card activity
  • How much is homeowners insurance in your city?
  • Who is the best person to be your executor?
  • Other Hyatt points charts
  • What happens when the Fed raises interest rates?
  • How do I calculate alternative minimum tax (AMT)?
  • Should you buy growth stocks?
  • 3. Test-drive the car
  • Do you include a 401(k) in a net worth calculation?
  • Alternatives to a debt management plan
  • How to save money when applying
  • Layoffs spiked among tech companies in 2023
  • HODL and cryptocurrency
  • Can you delay Medicare and keep using an HSA?
  • Where can I get a money order? How much does a money order cost?
  • Cheap car insurance after an accident by company
  • What Medigap Plan G doesn’t cover
  • Startup business grants from private companies and nonprofits
  • 2024 tax brackets
  • Which credit unions participate in shared branching?
  • What is short-term capital gains tax?
  • What is the difference between a 1099 and 1099-MISC?
  • 2. ... But it does come with a sign-up bonus
  • 2. EarnIn: Best for large advances
  • How to choose a money market account
  • Standard deduction 2023
  • How to unfreeze your credit
  • Earned income tax credit 2024
  • How flexible are Delta miles?
  • Money market accounts
  • OASDI limit 2024
  • Who should make estimated quarterly tax payments?
  • How much does it cost to buy Vanguard index fund shares?
  • An overview of the best cruise insurance
  • 3. Decide how much earnest money to offer
  • How do streaming services fit into your budget?
  • Which is easier to buy?
  • Paying early also cuts interest
  • SIMPLE IRA contribution limits for 2024
  • Emirates' 24-hour cancellation policy
  • Where does lottery revenue go?
  • Best airline dining programs
  • The Hanover home insurance coverage
  • What crowdfunding tax documents do I need? 
  • How to create a business budget in 6 steps
  • Pay more than the minimum, if possible
  • Waiting until after full retirement age to claim benefits
  • How to get into IHG’s Executive Clubs
  • How to get Sky Priority
  • When you should lock your mortgage rate
  • 4. Your friend wants to buy your leased car
  • If you need to rush your application
  • How to find your child’s Social Security number
  • How to transfer points between Chase cards
  • Additional car insurance coverage options
  • How the annual gift tax exclusion works
  • What happens after you apply for income-driven repayment?
  • Why lenders ask for a copy of the IRS Form SS-4
  • Should you get more than the bare minimum car insurance in Florida?
  • How do I receive money with Venmo?
  • Benefits of flying JSX
  • Does American give refunds for canceled flights?
  • 1. High-yield savings accounts
  • Transfer Apple Cash in 1-3 business days
  • How to make a family loan agreement
  • Is the Chase Sapphire Reserve® travel credit automatic?
  • Where do the credit reporting bureaus get their data?
  • How to invest in the S&P 500 in two steps:
  • When can you withdraw from your Roth IRA?
  • Glossary of overdraft terms
  • What are the benefits of early direct deposit?
  • How growth and value investing overlap
  • Who can open a joint business account
  • Is gap insurance worth it?
  • Ask about a life settlement
  • What to do after finding out who owns your student loans
  • How to choose the right budget system
  • 4. Elite status
  • Factors that affect the cost of car insurance
  • Can I contribute to a Roth IRA if my income is too high?
  • Dividend kings vs. aristocrats
  • How much does it cost to submit the Common App?
  • What happened to mortgage rates in August
  • 2. Know what banking experience you want
  • 4. Invest in your ability to generate more income
  • Is it worth it to cash a savings bond?
  • Pros and cons of buying an investment property
  • How long can you stay in a Club lounge?
  • Terminal 2: Delta Sky Club
  • 4. Plus, you can earn a bigger bonus if you spend enough
  • Home renovation loan alternatives
  • Historically low mortgage rates are long gone
  • Delta Air Lines
  • 5. What is the annual percentage rate?
  • Should you buy points?
  • How gender affects your car insurance rates
  • If you can’t afford more than the minimum, ask for help
  • What is the difference between a financial consultant and a financial advisor?
  • 3. Enjoy priority hotel check-in
  • 3. It offers highly specific perks
  • Mercury home insurance coverage
  • Do I have to pay state tax on lottery winnings?
  • 4. Submit your complaint and wait
  • Tips for avoiding late payments
  • How long does a late payment stay on my credit report?
  • What are the advantages of a 10-year ARM?
  • Requirements: Who qualifies for the child tax credit?
  • Equinox Body Lab
  • Education tax forms
  • Why is net worth important?
  • What is Lightning Lane?
  • Goodbudget, for hands-on envelope budgeting
  • What do I need to fill out Form 1040?
  • Best life insurance company overall: MassMutual
  • 5. You'll lose your rewards
  • Why the Roth IRA works for many savers
  • 6. Get your car fixed
  • Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card
  • What’s the difference between pre-qualification and preapproval?
  • States with no sales tax
  • How to book a basic economy ticket with Delta
  • Pros of infinite banking
  • Strategies for after-tax 401(k) contributions
  • Tax considerations on brokerage cash
  • Why you’d want the American Express® Gold Card
  • What’s the cost comparison between Plan F and Plan G?
  • Disadvantages of pour-over wills
  • Lifting a TransUnion credit freeze
  • Average mutual fund return
  • American Airlines premium economy vs. Main Cabin Extra
  • How to choose a life insurance company
  • Diplomatic passports
  • Choose your due date
  • Why do I have to pay FICA tax?
  • What’s a spousal Roth IRA?
  • Pay yourself back later
  • 4. You'll need to go through a multi-step approval process
  • What to look for in a high-interest loan
  • Where to find better bank promotions
  • Ways to earn IHG points
  • Cheapest DUI insurance by state
  • Why to get a life insurance illustration
  • Talk through your financial priorities
  • How to day trade stocks
  • 203(k) eligible projects
  • 4. Chiang Mai, Thailand
  • Top 3 index funds for the Nasdaq-100
  • 3 situations when CDs work best
  • Capital One Venture X Business
  • 4. Save for college
  • Why should I get the SENTRI Pass?
  • ESG benefits
  • 6 types of dividends
  • 6. Explore additional investment options
  • QuickBooks community forum sites
  • What would another interest rate increase do to markets?
  • What does SCAN Health Plan Medicare Advantage cost?
  • Perks: Goodies that come with the card
  • 4. You can walk your dog
  • Request your passport number from the State Department
  • Applying for a loan to buy a business
  • Fees for USDA and VA loans
  • Can I lift a fraud alert?
  • Travel and emergency assistance
  • The Hartford/AARP home insurance coverage
  • Freezing your Experian credit report via postal mail
  • Partner awards
  • Historical U.S. inflation rates
  • Align your spending and values
  • How to book Southwest Airlines Business Select
  • 5 best biotech stocks in the S&P 500 by one-year performance
  • Credit unions that participate in both shared branching and shared ATMs
  • How do I build an emergency fund?
  • How loan term affects your monthly car payment
  • How to guard against mortgage scams
  • When not to call the IRS
  • Best of the rest: Other solid Citi transfer partner redemptions
  • What is the Southwest boarding process?
  • When to estimate closing costs
  • Paycheck advance app cons
  • How to get a personal loan from a bank
  • Treasury bond and note calculator
  • Is the OASDI tax mandatory?
  • Estimate your 2024 IRS tax refund date
  • How to work HelloFresh costs into your budget
  • How to pay self-employment tax
  • 5 ways to limit impulse buying
  • ZenBusiness pros
  • Your bank may close your account after a bounced check
  • 4. Bundle your services for a better combined price
  • How to cancel an Emirates flight
  • How much is an ACH transfer fee?
  • How do you sign up for a Sam’s Club membership?
  • How do I avoid foreign transaction fees on my debit card?
  • Getting started
  • 4. Resist dipping into your other savings
  • Key things to know about stocks
  • How do you set up a lady bird deed?
  • How to get a home equity loan
  • How much can you send with Venmo?

4. Describe your products and services

  • How to apply for a Kikoff line of credit
  • What doesn’t impact your life insurance premium
  • Know the limits of credit monitoring services
  • How to get overdraft fees waived
  • An alternative: Blue-chip funds
  • Taking surveys
  • What happens if I don’t report my tips?
  • 5. File taxes without a W-2
  • The bottom line
  • How does impact investing work?
  • What does Venmo consider a taxable payment?
  • 3. Use a retirement calculator
  • Boost debt payoff with budgeting
  • Best for fair or limited credit
  • What happens when you get a margin call?
  • How to earn AAdvantage miles
  • How to submit a claim for a price match
  • How fast does an authorized user build credit?
  • Credit cards with a $4,000, 3 month minimum spend requirement
  • States that have estate taxes, inheritance taxes or both:
  • So what is the best Roth IRA?
  • 5. Invest for retirement
  • Other notable required minimum distribution (RMD) rules
  • What to expect from credit cards with high APRs
  • Universal life insurance: Pros and cons
  • Reconsidering the Apple Card for everyday spending
  • What credit cards include Priority Pass membership?
  • What is the compound interest formula?
  • How to maximize SCRA benefits
  • Saver’s credit rates for 2023
  • IRA income limits
  • Average homeowners insurance cost by company
  • How to buy a Travel Guard policy
  • Complimentary Marriott Gold elite status (worth $126 annually)
  • Net worth calculator
  • Circumstances that may qualify for a hardship program
  • What you need to get started
  • Term life vs. AD&D: Before you buy
  • SkyTeam lounges
  • Your 401(k) plan allows after-tax contributions
  • 4. Leverage memberships
  • Perks of the American Airlines Arrivals Lounge in Heathrow
  • What state has the lowest gas prices?
  • What if you’re unhappy with your massage?
  • How to find AI ETFs
  • When are New York state income taxes due?
  • Will making a partial payment keep me from being reported late?
  • An alternative to chasing the best stocks
  • Seller concessions
  • More details about Fidelity CDs
  • Schedule C: Tips and tricks
  • Money market accounts vs. other accounts
  • Other reasons to remove yourself as an authorized user
  • What’s your state’s maximum interest rate?
  • 4. Choose the contingencies to include
  • Terms connected to meme stocks
  • 6. You want to jump into (or out of) a card 'family'
  • 4. Target (with Target Circle)
  • Where to avoid exchanging currency
  • Can you deduct sales tax?
  • 5. Raw land
  • Cost of full coverage car insurance
  • Ways to get good value
  • Is Medigap Plan F worth it?
  • 5. You like the car and don't want the hassle of car shopping
  • Why the Chase Freedom Unlimited® could be more appealing for some
  • How to determine if a Southwest card is worth it
  • How to choose a biotech ETF
  • When are taxes due in October?
  • 4. Keep cash invested for 5 years or more
  • 4. Utilize an eSIM card
  • Types of REITs
  • How does a HELOC work?
  • When does Chase Sapphire Reserve® travel credit reset?
  • 5. All authorized drivers are covered
  • Excellent upgrade options
  • Are there any issues with early direct deposit?
  • About home equity lines of credit
  • Choose your payment method
  • Examples of cost basis
  • 5. Make a shopping list and use apps for more savings
  • 3. Facebook
  • 4. Home Depot offers a separate card for bigger projects
  • 4. Create a wish list
  • What counts as income?
  • The pros and cons of zero-based budgeting
  • Dispute responsibly
  • Additional QuickBooks resources
  • Top-of-wallet cards in the making
  • How to use the Disney disability pass
  • Which stocks is Warren Buffett buying?
  • Secure 2.0: part of a bigger solution
  • When can the seller keep my earnest money?
  • What are the duties of an executor?
  • Why is there an egg shortage?
  • What tax breaks do you lose under the AMT?
  • 4. Snag a modest sign-up bonus
  • 3. Taking the standard deduction vs. itemizing
  • Managing your QuickBooks credit card payments account
  • Transfers to other Chase cards
  • Buy points directly
  • Money order fees at big U.S. banks
  • What else you can do
  • Is there a new W-4 form for 2024?
  • How much does Medigap Plan G cost?
  • More ways to take charge of your budget
  • Credit unions that participate in shared ATMs
  • Capital gains tax rates 2023
  • Can you invest in OpenAI’s partners?
  • Will there be extra Social Security payments?
  • Getting a personal loan vs. an auto loan
  • 3. You can earn free nights (if you spend enough)
  • How to increase your net worth
  • 2024 standard deduction
  • How to qualify for the earned income credit
  • What the Southwest penalty entails
  • Claiming gambling losses on your taxes
  • Decide among low interest, 0% or rewards
  • 4. Apply for a loan
  • Why all-inclusives make sense for travelers
  • Home equity loan rates in 2023
  • 4. Gather information for your application
  • Day 4: Tour the island by car
  • Theft and insurance
  • 5. Check on assistance programs for a monthly discount
  • Should you try telematics insurance?
  • What are the lottery payout options?
  • 5. There are no other Merrick Bank credit cards to graduate to
  • 2. The hotspot scam
  • How to book a Blue fare ticket with JetBlue
  • Today’s rates for specific kinds of mortgages
  • How are American Airlines boarding groups assigned?
  • How to invest in dividend stocks
  • Can the entire Apple account balance be transferred?
  • Find ways to stretch your grocery budget
  • How to open a brokerage account
  • Do I need my birth certificate to get a passport if born overseas to American parents?
  • The Bitcoin ETF price war
  • How to add TSA PreCheck to Southwest Airlines
  • How much is car insurance in my state?
  • Earning AAdvantage Loyalty Points through flying
  • Service passports
  • How to rebook
  • How to apply for a joint business bank account
  • Best high-interest loan alternatives
  • Are P2P payments safe?
  • How to get gap insurance
  • Best car insurance in New York for having few customer complaints: The Hanover
  • 2024 IRS Free File: Participating software providers
  • Benefits of booking business and group travel with Southwest
  • 5. Travel protections
  • Cryptocurrency tax FAQs
  • How to invest in dividend aristocrats
  • Other ways to build credit
  • 5. Fund your FSA
  • Types of financial advisors and what they do
  • Do I pay taxes when I cash in savings bonds?
  • How to avoid paying American Airlines seat selection fees
  • The Citi ThankYou points value on Amazon
  • Limited partnership compliance
  • When is travel insurance not necessary?
  • 3. Inadequate rewards earning potential
  • What if I lose the cashier's check?
  • 4. Get access to a personal advisor
  • Run the numbers on financing
  • What does Citi card car rental insurance not include?
  • Difficulties in evaluating ESG performance
  • Do I have to pay New York state income tax?
  • How can I avoid late payments?
  • Additional child tax credit
  • 6. Read your reports and fix errors
  • Potential drawbacks
  • Compare cards
  • Certificates of deposit, or CDs
  • 2. Free online tax preparation services
  • How to book the Spirit Big Front Seat
  • Best cruise insurance options
  • How to build your credit
  • Tax deductions for self-employment
  • ZenBusiness cons
  • Which is safer, a money order or a cashier’s check?
  • Dividend tax rate 2023
  • Covering your spouse under your solo 401(k)
  • What to do if you bounce a check
  • Skip currency exchange: Use a credit or debit card
  • Is a Sam’s Club membership worth it?
  • Consider your get-out-of-debt options
  • How to buy utility stocks
  • How much to tip housekeeping
  • What if I can’t provide collateral or a personal guarantee?
  • Submit recertification information every year
  • Is Venmo secure?
  • Other Kikoff credit-building tools
  • Additional Medicare Part D companies
  • Average cost of term life insurance by age
  • Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverages
  • 3. Work with your creditors
  • 3 excuses that keep you from making money investing
  • Is a robo-advisor right for you?
  • 4. You must have a checking account
  • 5. The card makes a good travel companion
  • Benefits of QuickBooks Online
  • Common questions about RV loans
  • Financing energy-efficient home updates
  • 4. Mileage deduction
  • Calculate your reduced Roth contribution
  • How to compare personal loans
  • Maintenance
  • Watch out for capital gains taxes
  • How to find blockchain stocks
  • 3. Narrow your choices by asking the right questions
  • Who might prefer the Platinum
  • How to pay for gender-affirming surgery
  • How do I apply for Agent Orange compensation?
  • AARP discount car rental
  • Cheap cell phone plans from brands that resell network service
  • Southwest Airlines
  • Are discount points worth it?
  • How does the Fed raise interest rates?
  • Other MAGI calculations
  • 3. Find colleges with no application fee
  • 4. Find the right price
  • Are spendthrift trusts revocable or irrevocable?
  • Your decision: Is HODL for you?
  • 3. Become an authorized user
  • How to get Delta Medallion status
  • Your 401(k) lets you move your after-tax money
  • Pros and cons of investing in biotech stocks
  • How to minimize your estate tax burden
  • Citi ThankYou transfer partners you should ignore
  • What else to know when buying Fidelity CDs
  • 3. Empower: Best for fast cash
  • Download Form 1040
  • What is a meme stock ETF?
  • The cost of uninsured motorist coverage
  • Why the due date is so important
  • Types of life insurance trusts
  • External ACH transfer fees by financial institution
  • Other partners worth considering
  • Which real estate investment is best for you?
  • Another way to fast-track Sky Priority
  • Why the small business definition matters
  • 5. Get help with saving for a down payment
  • How to buy biotech ETFs
  • What car insurance doesn’t cover
  • How lenders determine your factor rate
  • How do I get a refund from American Airlines?
  • Is United’s basic economy worth it?
  • Amenities and other perks of ANA premium economy
  • What info do you need for a home insurance quote?
  • What is American Airlines Main Plus?
  • Can other types of data help my credit reports?
  • Passport cards
  • 6. Certain types of vehicles aren’t covered
  • More about the card
  • When to book main cabin vs. basic economy on American Airlines
  • Methodology to determine the best airline
  • How to open a Roth IRA in 6 steps
  • How to catch up on unreported tips
  • 6. Request more time to file
  • Hack your IRA
  • 6. Use coupons strategically
  • Is impact investing a good idea?
  • How to get an in-force policy illustration
  • Lean on your community
  • Lower your bills
  • 5. Loyalty doesn't always pay off
  • 5. Hammamet, Tunisia
  • How to save money on a Disney cruise
  • How much car insurance you need
  • Tap into education stipends
  • United℠ Explorer Card
  • 3. If you already paid the debt: Ask for a goodwill deletion
  • 6. Save for your child’s education
  • Calculating RMDs when you have multiple accounts
  • Maui at a glance
  • Saver’s credit rates for 2024
  • 5. You may score a free massage 
  • The long straddle
  • Closing cost limits
  • Getting information about an Experian credit freeze by phone
  • Membership Rewards cards
  • Redeeming points for SkyTeam awards
  • Should I take a lump sum payment or annuity payments?
  • What you probably can’t do
  • Spaces to relax and work
  • Estimating your car payment
  • Foundation grants for nonprofits
  • What’s the Social Security payment schedule for 2024?
  • Other costs for home sellers
  • Is credit life insurance right for you?
  • What do closing costs include?
  • Rocky Mountains
  • What is Individual Lightning Lane?
  • Treasury bills calculator
  • What does condo insurance cover?
  • Where's my state tax refund? Track your state refund status
  • Potential impact of multiple credit cards on your credit scores
  • 7. Your card is a relic
  • Ways to deter theft
  • Benefits of a SIMPLE IRA
  • 5. CouponCabin
  • Compare Cards
  • Does pre-qualification affect your credit score?
  • How to cancel an Emirates Skywards award flight
  • How to determine when to start Social Security benefits
  • Are home equity loans a good idea?

5. Do your market research

  • Can children under age 18 transfer Apple Cash to a bank account?
  • Do I still have to pay the IRMAA if I choose Medicare Advantage?
  • Return protection
  • 3. Search unclaimed property databases
  • Best insurance company for affordability: NJM
  • Citi ThankYou transfer bonus history
  • How to get a refund
  • Investing in growth and value stocks
  • Adoption taxpayer identification number (ATIN)
  • How to safely make and receive P2P payments
  • Trust & Will: Best for ease of use
  • Tips to find cheap flights any day of the week
  • Interest rate
  • 4. Revisit regularly
  • How has the Marriott points value changed over time?
  • Selection criteria
  • Take advantage of nontraditional return options
  • Universal life insurance vs. whole life insurance
  • Is there free Wi-Fi on a cruise?
  • Other types of partnerships
  • 5. Select purchases won’t be charged interest for six months
  • Properties are selling fast
  • Auto rental collision damage waiver
  • Ways to earn money as a teenager
  • Do I need financial consulting services?
  • 5. Avoid foreign transaction fees
  • Compare your net worth
  • 5. Appearances matter
  • How to avoid probate
  • Elite status
  • Sign-up bonus
  • How to file a DBA name
  • Pool and transfer
  • When should I use a money order?
  • Use the power of extra payments
  • How to find the 2024 W-4
  • 4. The premium card offers additional perks
  • Get more help with monthly budget planning
  • Laws about paying your employees
  • National Processing pros
  • How has this value changed over time?
  • Is OASDI tax the same thing as Social Security tax?
  • Best life insurance company for applicants with HIV: Guardian
  • Important Treasury Bond Terms
  • Cheapest car insurance after a speeding ticket: State Farm
  • How much is the SALT deduction?
  • How to open a solo 401(k)
  • How much is Marriott elite status worth?
  • Should I tip housekeeping if they don’t enter the room?
  • Who is a qualifying relative?
  • Alternatives to a lady bird deed
  • Extra baggage fees
  • Bottom line
  • Average cost of whole life insurance by age
  • How to invest in tech stocks
  • Exploring other options
  • How do you get tax information from Venmo?
  • The best times to day trade
  • What to do if you lost your passport abroad
  • 4. Know when to leave it to the pros
  • 3. Will it save you time?
  • 6. Subsidize your dependent care FSA
  • Taxes and registration
  • Crypto ETFs
  • Watch out for fees
  • Compare the best savings and money market accounts
  • Should I do a balance transfer?
  • Where are interest rates headed next?
  • Pros and cons of jumbo loans
  • Average home insurance cost by dwelling coverage amount
  • Storing your Bitcoins: Hot wallets vs. cold wallets
  • 6. Are you doing a hard credit check on me today?
  • Typical car insurance rates by age and gender
  • How long does it take for an executor to settle an estate?
  • 15 Elite Night Credits per year
  • Do I have to pay alternative minimum tax?
  • 4. Ask the college to waive the fee
  • If you're looking to apply for Global Entry
  • Media layoffs soared as companies struggle to profit
  • Spendthrift trust pros
  • Disney Cruise Line loyalty program: Castaway Club
  • What if you can’t afford to tip?
  • Compare prices and services
  • 4. It doesn't travel as well as competitors
  • Additional standard deduction
  • How can I improve my chances of getting approved?
  • How do state taxes treat gambling?
  • The exception: the Military Lending Act
  • Buying a put option vs. short selling
  • 5. Close the loan and make payments
  • How to calculate quarterly estimated taxes
  • How to integrate a living trust and a will
  • Ways to get the best home equity loan rates
  • Alternatives
  • Dividend tax rate 2024
  • 5. Compare lenders and rates
  • Why you should apply for an employer identification number
  • Spaces to relax and work at the SFO Air Canada lounge
  • How much does Point.me cost?
  • Restrictions on external ACH funds transfers
  • Who collects sales tax?
  • Why you may not be getting a response after an interview
  • 3 moves to make before Tax Day 2024
  • How to get preferred boarding on American Airlines flights
  • How to get an IRS Form SS-4 notice: Instructions
  • Does Venmo offer a debit or credit card?
  • 2. Certificates of deposit

6. Outline your marketing and sales plan

  • What else to know about Apple Cash
  • Kikoff vs. Self
  • Alternatives to family loans
  • Why doesn’t my report show a credit score?
  • Get organized for the next cycle 
  • How to request a refund on Hawaiian Airlines
  • Why consumer advocates are concerned, and what you can do
  • 7. Buy in bulk
  • How much does car insurance go up after a DUI?
  • Impact investing examples
  • Make more money
  • Doing great
  • Benefits of booking corporate travel with Southwest
  • Choose the best United credit card offer for you
  • Dividend aristocrats ETFs
  • Things to remember about working while on Social Security
  • Traveling without a passport
  • How to avoid inheritance tax
  • Which card should you get?
  • Where to find virtual assistant jobs
  • Qualifying for a better credit card APR
  • Citi ThankYou points calculator
  • When is trip insurance worth it?
  • Fraud alert vs. credit freeze — which should I choose?
  • Zoho Expense
  • What is the Federal Reserve Board?
  • 5. Get dealer quotes
  • Consumer complaints
  • Once you request your Experian credit freeze
  • Can you double dip on insurance plans?
  • Why inflation matters
  • 5. Opt for economy cars
  • How are gas prices determined?
  • Could we be in an AI bubble?
  • What is New York state's standard deduction?
  • Managing expectations
  • How else consumers can protect themselves
  • State tax department phone numbers
  • How to freeze your child’s credit
  • Can I get my Social Security tax back if I’ve overpaid it?
  • How to get a tax refund sooner
  • Which Form 1040 schedules should I use?
  • Is the Spirit Big Front Seat worth it?
  • Wave Payroll reviews
  • 8. You want a business version of your credit card
  • Other tips for managing your bill
  • Chase Freedom Flex℠
  • Which World Nomads insurance plan is best for me?
  • Benefits unique to the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card
  • Benefits of a larger down payment
  • Which card (or cards) should you get? 
  • Disadvantages of HSAs
  • Energy ETFs: An easier way to invest
  • How to increase your chances of a higher salary after coding bootcamp
  • Optional costs to sell a house
  • 5. Need the cash sooner? Consider these
  • What’s not deductible?
  • Do spot Bitcoin ETFs have custodianship risk?
  • 5 things to know about Arizona state income tax
  • 5. Other cards cost much less
  • More from tax filing resources:
  • Current Build Card
  • What not to do
  • Consider the costs of cashing out your 401(k)
  • 4. Instagram
  • Best car insurance in New York for ease of use: State Farm
  • Ready to get started?
  • What are IRS Free File Fillable Forms?
  • Can you delay a margin call?
  • Still not sure which budget system is best for you?
  • How did we determine the value of Marriott Bonvoy points?
  • Refinancing with an FHA 203(k) loan
  • 6. No foreign transaction fees
  • Negotiate a pay raise or employee stocks
  • Alaska MVP Gold benefits
  • How much does universal life insurance cost?
  • Calculating the value of the saver's credit
  • Individual stocks
  • 4. Access to a dedicated concierge
  • Where to get a loan to buy a business
  • United Airlines
  • Additional travel insurance options and add-ons
  • Cashier’s check vs. certified check vs. money order
  • Crypto vs. stocks
  • Why invest in commodity ETFs?
  • You’ve got money left over for savings
  • Buy Medigap Plan G during Medigap open enrollment
  • How income tax brackets work
  • 2023 capital gains tax calculator
  • The bottom line on OpenAI
  • How to claim the child tax credit in 2024
  • 7. Monitor your credit regularly
  • About the Citi ThankYou point transfer partners
  • The 50/30/20 budget calculator
  • Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card
  • No-closing-cost mortgages
  • How did we determine what Delta miles are worth?
  • No impact on forgiveness under IDR, PSLF
  • Similar to savings accounts
  • Can I make money with meme stocks?
  • Making the call
  • What else you need to know
  • 6. PayPal Honey
  • How to increase your pre-qualification amount
  • Is my business required to collect sales tax?
  • Cons of infinite banking
  • Why you’d get both
  • How the lifetime gift tax exclusion works
  • If you need help applying, contact your servicer
  • Brokerage accounts are taxable accounts
  • More U.S. passport photo requirements
  • How to get American Airlines Main Cabin Extra Seats for free
  • 4. Seek help through debt relief
  • State thresholds for the medical expense deduction
  • How much does it cost to invest in the S&P 500?
  • Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card rental car insurance, recapped
  • Next steps:
  • Credit card and travel insurance that can get your money back
  • Common misconceptions
  • How did we determine the value of IHG points?
  • How quickly do P2P payments post to the recipient's account?
  • What factors impact your credit scores?
  • Will Venmo provide any other tax documents? 
  • Other cities where you can find affordable luxury
  • 5. Retirement savings deduction
  • If you’re looking to book with Booking.com
  • 2023 state income tax rates and brackets
  • What types of homes can be FHA-approved?
  • Other Roth IRA rules
  • Where to find financing for small businesses
  • Alaska Airlines Visa® credit card
  • Compare the best CD accounts
  • How to choose the best ESG funds for you
  • What to know about holiday return policies
  • Where to find Club lounges
  • Terminal 3: Escape Lounge
  • Other income that can lower your disability pay
  • How to avoid mortgage insurance
  • If this is giving you a headache ...
  • Consumer experience
  • What is the TSA PreCheck cost for a family of four?
  • Spendthrift trust cons
  • How do I deal with lottery taxes?
  • More reading about ETFs
  • 0% intro APR offer
  • Average Disney World hotel room costs
  • Transfer partners
  • Do I have to update my W-4 every year?
  • Cheap car insurance after an accident by state
  • 5. A general travel rewards card is better for most
  • Negotiate if necessary
  • What if my scheduled payment date falls on a weekend or a holiday?
  • How much does credit life insurance cost?
  • Brokered CDs have risks and rewards
  • Alternatives to bank loans
  • The Platinum Card® from American Express
  • Who should consider paying for EarlyBird Check-In?
  • 5. Write a purchase offer
  • How to report dividend income on your taxes
  • Four days in Oahu, recapped
  • Drawbacks of SIMPLE IRA plans
  • Delta basic economy vs. main cabin
  • Calculating capital gains tax on a home sale
  • Final thoughts on Cathay Pacific economy
  • 3. The credit card 'sign-up farm' scam
  • Average retirement age
  • Do you tip concierge?
  • How to claim the mortgage interest deduction
  • How do I grow my home's equity?
  • How to find lost luggage on American Airlines

7. Perform a business financial analysis

  • How do I find out if the Medicare IRMAA applies to me?
  • How to compare home insurance quotes
  • Collision and comprehensive coverages
  • Passport types in the U.S., recapped
  • What are online planning services?
  • Day trading risk management
  • Which insurance companies sell gap coverage?
  • Why some cars cost more to insure
  • 7. Rock your HSA
  • Who should skip the SENTRI Pass
  • Where can I cash a money order?
  • 4. Check your credit reports after 30 days to make sure the change was made
  • What makes a good investment property?
  • How to save money on cruise Wi-Fi
  • If you want to visit an airport lounge in JFK's Terminal 5
  • Traditional IRA withdrawal rules
  • Average homeowners insurance cost by claims history
  • How to limit out-of-pocket VA loan closing costs
  • Will a credit freeze or fraud alert hurt my credit score?
  • 7. Do you charge for an interest rate lock?
  • Can you negotiate points on a mortgage?
  • How insurance companies set your rates
  • Free Night Award up to 50,000 points (worth $350)
  • The final step: insurance
  • How do you file a Citi card car rental insurance claim?
  • Pros and cons of commodity ETFs
  • 4. Pay bills on time
  • Rely on yourself
  • How to buy biotech stocks
  • Am I a resident for New York state income tax purposes?
  • Watch out for IRS phone scams
  • 4. Use budgeting or expense-tracking apps
  • Who counts as a qualifying child for the earned income credit?
  • EveryDollar, for simple zero-based budgeting
  • How do you buy Vanguard Index fund shares?
  • How much can you borrow with a home equity loan?
  • And one reason NOT to second-guess
  • 'Stacked' uninsured motorist coverage
  • Alternatives to student credit cards
  • Emirates Economy vs Emirates Premium Economy: which is a better value?
  • Emirates' cancellation policy recapped
  • ACH vs. wire transfer
  • Best small business grants for Michigan businesses
  • Claiming tax-deductible donations on your tax return
  • Methodology
  • Compare auto insurance rates for 35-year-olds
  • How to get priority boarding on American Airlines
  • 2024 veterans disability rates
  • What to do with an old 401(k)
  • Don’t pay for advance seat selection
  • Cost of life insurance without a medical exam
  • 8. Start small
  • Preparer tax identification number (PTIN)
  • Starting a business with a friend: What n ot to do
  • Don’t be afraid of debt relief
  • Margin call causes
  • 7. Hyatt transfer partners
  • 5. Find the right mortgage for you
  • How to avoid extra costs from a trip delay
  • Strategies to combine flexibility and high rates
  • Some helpful links from the IRS
  • How much is Alaska MVP Gold elite status worth?
  • 4. Apply for the card that offers you the highest overall value
  • Available Medicare Advantage plans
  • Which stocks is Warren Buffett selling?
  • Things to consider
  • Is Business Select worth it on Southwest?
  • Is Plan G the best Medicare Supplement Insurance plan?
  • If you're considering World of Hyatt Credit Card
  • What is the American Express Centurion Lounge?
  • 4. Dave: Best for repayment flexibility
  • If you're considering Lightning Lane or Genie+
  • What to do if you have a high-interest loan
  • What’s the filing deadline for my Virginia state income tax bill?
  • Cheapest car insurance after an accident: State Farm
  • BankAmericard® credit card
  • Exchange frequently? Consider a multicurrency account
  • Can you buy World Nomads travel insurance online?
  • Getting the most from your pre-qualification limit
  • What happens if you don’t collect sales tax?
  • How much should you put down on a house?
  • Who needs full coverage car insurance?
  • Can I take my own passport photo?
  • HELOC requirements
  • Are credit scores from all major bureaus the same?
  • How much money can you put in a Roth IRA?
  • If you want a refund because Hawaiian canceled your flight
  • What do P2P payments cost?
  • Days in the cycle
  • Who qualifies for an FHA 203(k)?
  • Contributing too much to a Roth
  • Evaluate retirement account contributions
  • Ex-dividend dates
  • Compare the best checking accounts
  • Cards that earn Citi ThankYou points
  • How to look up passport numbers recapped
  • Multiple offers are the norm
  • Steps for getting into a hardship program
  • 4. Keep an eye on popular tax deductions and credits
  • 6. Stick to one driver
  • What happens if you don’t check out of a hotel
  • What if my Social Security payment doesn’t arrive by the expected date?
  • 5. It’s one of three Radisson credit cards
  • National Processing cons
  • When should you freeze your credit?
  • Where to get a personal installment loan
  • Best life insurance company for consumer experience: Northwestern Mutual
  • How to control your dividend tax bill
  • Will I ever need to change my EIN?
  • How much are lottery winnings taxed?
  • Get TSA PreCheck for free
  • Are after-tax 401(k) contributions right for me?
  • Best World of Hyatt Category 4 hotels
  • Sky Priority on Delta recapped
  • 5. Pay for an international plan add-on
  • Mutual fund fees
  • What do the approvals mean for Bitcoin?
  • How to add TSA PreCheck to American Airlines
  • How much is car insurance by company?
  • Power and lighting
  • How to find cheap auto insurance after a DUI
  • Rocket Lawyer: Best customer service
  • Can I get out of Venmo taxes by switching services?
  • Tip: Some business travelers can add EarlyBird Check-In
  • How to find FHA-approved homes
  • See if zero-based budgeting is right for you
  • Terminal 4: Delta Sky Clubs, Centurion Lounge, Emirates Lounge and more
  • How to minimize the tax impact of a bonus
  • Xero alternatives
  • Secure 2.0 changes: Saver's match
  • The long strangle
  • 5. Purchase protection and extended warranty
  • Average homeowners insurance cost by home age
  • 8. Will I have to pay mortgage insurance?
  • What’s not covered by a Travel Guard plan
  • How can I avoid cashier's check fraud?
  • Concur Travel
  • Tips for maximizing the Hyatt award chart
  • 6. Maximize trade-in value
  • How to set up a spendthrift trust
  • Is Citi card car rental insurance worth it?
  • Partner perks
  • Advantages of filing a DBA
  • How to adjust your Form W-4
  • Performance as the metric for inclusion
  • Anticipate extra costs
  • Capital loss deduction
  • When to expect your child tax credit refund
  • 5. Explore other expense-tracking methods
  • 3. Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
  • Who should skip EarlyBird Check-In?
  • Final thoughts on hotel tipping
  • More restrictive carry-on policies
  • Dress code for a passport picture recapped
  • ANA premium economy, recapped
  • How do I check my Chase Sapphire Reserve® $300 travel credit?
  • How to accept QR code payments at your business
  • How are Delta boarding zones assigned?
  • Redemptions to avoid
  • Breeze Airway cancellations recapped
  • Tips for calculating how much life insurance you need
  • Other loan calculators
  • 5. LinkedIn
  • Full list of the best car insurance in NY
  • Do you have to report your passport lost or stolen?
  • Booking process
  • United℠ Business Card
  • 8. See if you’re eligible for the earned income tax credit (EITC)
  • Is the SENTRI Pass worth it?
  • Is MVP Gold worth it?
  • How to evaluate dividends
  • If you want to match your airline elite status
  • Can I have a fraud alert and a credit freeze?
  • Who benefits most from the Marriott Bonvoy Bountiful™ Card ?
  • Modified adjusted gross income: The bottom line
  • If you’re looking to get TSA PreCheck for your family
  • Earn rewards with Hawaiian Airlines
  • Average Disney World food costs
  • Other bonus points
  • Who benefits from the cash stuffing envelope system
  • Types of gas
  • Capital gains tax rates 2024
  • Standard deduction for dependents
  • Seller-paid closing costs
  • Can I claim the EITC without a child?
  • How to get a refund if the IDR account adjustment forgives your debt
  • Choose between cash-back and travel rewards
  • Choosing between cards? Rewards and perks might make the difference
  • Home equity loan requirements
  • Wave Payroll alternatives
  • What taxes aren’t covered by the SALT deduction?
  • Benefits unique to the Marriott Bonvoy Bountiful™ Card and Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® Card
  • Are these the best dividend stocks?
  • Where do I offer feedback or send a complaint to American Airlines?
  • How do I pay the Medicare IRMAA surcharge?
  • Best custodial Roth IRAs
  • How to get a home equity line of credit
  • Other ways to earn AAdvantage Loyalty Points
  • Average cost of term life insurance by health
  • Hawaiian Airlines travel credits
  • Frequently asked questions about P2P payments
  • Bottom line: Is day trading right for you?
  • How much does gap insurance cost?
  • Best for poor credit
  • 6. Self-employment taxes as self-employment tax deductions
  • 3. Pick your must-have features
  • Compare the best banks, credit unions and cash management accounts
  • Applying for SSDI benefits
  • How to switch plans and keep your number
  • Sharing a Prime membership Using Amazon Household
  • Why you might want a Blue Cash card
  • Can you buy discount points after closing?
  • How to use a Delta Companion Certificate to book a flight
  • How much do Disney travel agents make?
  • How to protect against inflation
  • It’s possible to get a lower rate after an accident
  • Add it all up
  • Should you invest in AI stocks?
  • How to get into the Centurion Lounge at JFK
  • Can you cancel credit life insurance?
  • Fast-cash options to consider instead of an app
  • 6 things to know about Virginia state income tax
  • How to estimate taxes for an income tax extension
  • The best place to exchange currency at the end of your trip
  • Other retirement ages to know
  • Brokerage accounts vs. IRA
  • How can I check my credit reports?
  • Colorado tax credits
  • Capital One transfer bonus history
  • AA basic economy vs. main cabin, recapped
  • Is it worth going to a tax preparer?
  • How do I get an FHA 203(k) loan?
  • Hyatt Chase card benefits, recapped
  • How to save on car insurance
  • If you want to obtain a SENTRI Pass
  • Other types of universal life insurance
  • A rising rewards rate lifts all cards
  • Third-party ratings
  • Alternatives to the disability pass at Disney
  • What are Berkshire Hathaway’s holdings?
  • Jumbo loans and conforming loan limits
  • What does a home insurance rate include?
  • Roadside dispatch
  • Recap: How to get a cashier's check
  • Mass layoffs across the labor market aren’t likely in 2024
  • Shopping/travel/fraud protections
  • Depreciation examples
  • 7. Use your own insurance
  • What is the average and median retirement savings?
  • 6. Look for ways to lower your expenses
  • How to get your Southwest boarding position
  • Cons of a credit freeze
  • Cheapest for 30-year-old drivers
  • What are the best Vanguard index funds?
  • How to purchase EarlyBird Check-In on Southwest
  • 6. Walk away, negotiate or move toward closing
  • Why is it called the SALT tax? 
  • 6. Apply to refinance your car loan
  • Is a SIMPLE IRA right for me?
  • What isn’t covered
  • How long does it take to get pre-qualified for a mortgage?
  • Which type of life insurance should I put in a trust?
  • How to make ACH transfers more quickly
  • Chase transfer partners to avoid
  • Additional ways to get good value
  • Other considerations to determine your down payment
  • Will you owe real estate capital gains taxes?
  • More 401(k) resources
  • How much is the gift tax rate?

8. Make financial projections

  • The Chase Sapphire Reserve® travel credit, recapped
  • Best insurance company for accident forgiveness: Geico
  • Gap insurance
  • How to start impact investing
  • Term vs. whole life insurance tool
  • Margin call example
  • What to do if you lost your passport the day before a flight
  • The complete list of dividend aristocrats
  • How to earn or redeem TrueBlue points with other JetBlue travel partners
  • How long are money orders good for?
  • Kauai at a glance
  • How to buy consumer discretionary stocks
  • Summary: Buying a second home
  • Should you exercise early?
  • Who should get a Travel Guard insurance policy?
  • 2. How you drive
  • Consider consolidation
  • How do ETFs work?
  • Consequences of a child tax credit error
  • If you're considering transferring Citi ThankYou points …
  • 5. MoneyLion: Best for existing customers
  • National Processing alternatives
  • Citi Custom Cash® Card
  • How to claim the earned income tax credit
  • What if I lose my EIN?
  • Is Point.me worth the price?
  • Think it through and get a second opinion
  • Charitable deductions 2023
  • If you're looking for the best way to use your cell phone abroad
  • Trip delay reimbursement
  • 5. Lower your living expenses
  • Rights violated? Submit a complaint
  • Drawbacks of QuickBooks Online
  • Alternative car insurance after a DUI
  • Factors that don’t affect your credit scores
  • Why you can trust NerdWallet
  • What are the disadvantages of sole proprietorship?
  • MVP Gold on Alaska recapped
  • Compare the best bank accounts for students and kids
  • Terminal 4: Priority Pass dining
  • When can you get a refund of American Airlines seat selection fees?
  • Looking for past years' saver's credit thresholds?
  • Find local conforming loan limits
  • How do business expense trackers work?
  • Other home insurance companies to consider
  • 5. Know what tax records to keep
  • 5. Dispute credit report errors
  • Final thoughts on finding cheap Southwest flights
  • What is a marginal tax rate?
  • Capital gains tax rules and considerations
  • Tax-loss harvesting rules
  • When can't you take the standard deduction?
  • Cheapest car insurance after a DUI: Progressive
  • Where to exchange currency: Frequently asked questions
  • 4. The interest rate scam
  • Are IHG Executive Club lounges worth the cost?
  • Who doesn't count as a tax dependent?
  • Singapore Airlines baggage policies recapped
  • Can you lose money in mutual funds?
  • You might also like:
  • How much can you borrow with a HELOC?
  • Average cost of life insurance by term length
  • How upgrades are prioritized
  • What's the difference between a CPA and a tax preparer?
  • Final thoughts on SWABIZ
  • Are FHA 203(k) loans a good idea?
  • World of Hyatt Credit Card
  • 9. Give it away
  • Universal life policy riders
  • Tips for buying a house in 2023
  • 9. What will my monthly payment be?
  • How to fund a startup
  • 7. Seal the deal
  • Money order tracking
  • What is the best Disney Cruise Line ship?
  • Other types of 1040 tax forms
  • How to manage stock trading risks
  • How to pay estimated taxes
  • Best life insurance company for coverage amounts: New York Life
  • Final thoughts on Marriott Platinum elite status
  • The best basic economy airline
  • What to do if you win the lottery
  • So, is TSA PreCheck worth it?
  • Best ways to earn Chase points
  • Keep an eye on your credit score
  • Chase Ultimate Rewards® overview
  • How to get priority boarding on Delta
  • How we tracked prices
  • Additional resources
  • Why investing is important
  • Alternatives to gap insurance
  • Traveling with a maiden name on passport recapped
  • Summary of the best banks and credit unions of 2024
  • Pros and cons
  • Should you trade like Warren Buffett?
  • Ways to get the best jumbo mortgage rates
  • How to reduce the cost of homeowners insurance
  • Is Amazon Prime worth it?
  • Can the home seller pay your discount points?
  • Co-branded travel cards
  • How to find cheap car insurance after an accident
  • 8. Forgo the extras
  • Southwest Family Boarding: How to sit together
  • Credit freeze or credit lock?
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A business plan is a document that outlines your business’s financial goals and explains how you’ll achieve them. A strong, detailed plan will provide a road map for the business’s next three to five years, and you can share it with potential investors, lenders or other important partners.

Bizee

Here’s a step-by-step guide to writing your business plan.

» Need help writing? Learn about the best business plan software .

This is the first page of your business plan. Think of it as your elevator pitch. It should include a mission statement, a brief description of the products or services offered, and a broad summary of your financial growth plans.

Though the executive summary is the first thing your investors will read, it can be easier to write it last. That way, you can highlight information you’ve identified while writing other sections that go into more detail.

» MORE: How to write an executive summary in 6 steps

Next up is your company description, which should contain information like:

Your business’s registered name.

Address of your business location .

Names of key people in the business. Make sure to highlight unique skills or technical expertise among members of your team.

Your company description should also define your business structure — such as a sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation — and include the percent ownership that each owner has and the extent of each owner’s involvement in the company.

Lastly, it should cover the history of your company and the nature of your business now. This prepares the reader to learn about your goals in the next section.

» MORE: How to write a company overview for a business plan

create new business plan

The third part of a business plan is an objective statement. This section spells out exactly what you’d like to accomplish, both in the near term and over the long term.

If you’re looking for a business loan or outside investment, you can use this section to explain why you have a clear need for the funds, how the financing will help your business grow, and how you plan to achieve your growth targets. The key is to provide a clear explanation of the opportunity presented and how the loan or investment will grow your company.

For example, if your business is launching a second product line, you might explain how the loan will help your company launch the new product and how much you think sales will increase over the next three years as a result.

In this section, go into detail about the products or services you offer or plan to offer.

You should include the following:

An explanation of how your product or service works.

The pricing model for your product or service.

The typical customers you serve.

Your supply chain and order fulfillment strategy.

Your sales strategy.

Your distribution strategy.

You can also discuss current or pending trademarks and patents associated with your product or service.

Lenders and investors will want to know what sets your product apart from your competition. In your market analysis section , explain who your competitors are. Discuss what they do well, and point out what you can do better. If you’re serving a different or underserved market, explain that.

Here, you can address how you plan to persuade customers to buy your products or services, or how you will develop customer loyalty that will lead to repeat business.

» MORE: R e a d our complete guide to small business marketing

If you’re a startup, you may not have much information on your business financials yet. However, if you’re an existing business, you’ll want to include income or profit-and-loss statements, a balance sheet that lists your assets and debts, and a cash flow statement that shows how cash comes into and goes out of the company.

You may also include metrics such as:

Net profit margin: the percentage of revenue you keep as net income.

Current ratio: the measurement of your liquidity and ability to repay debts.

Accounts receivable turnover ratio: a measurement of how frequently you collect on receivables per year.

This is a great place to include charts and graphs that make it easy for those reading your plan to understand the financial health of your business.

» NerdWallet’s picks for setting up your business finances:

The best business checking accounts .

The best business credit cards .

The best accounting software .

This is a critical part of your business plan if you’re seeking financing or investors. It outlines how your business will generate enough profit to repay the loan or how you will earn a decent return for investors.

Here, you’ll provide your business’s monthly or quarterly sales, expenses and profit estimates over at least a three-year period — with the future numbers assuming you’ve obtained a new loan.

Accuracy is key, so carefully analyze your past financial statements before giving projections. Your goals may be aggressive, but they should also be realistic.

List any supporting information or additional materials that you couldn’t fit in elsewhere, such as resumes of key employees, licenses, equipment leases, permits, patents, receipts, bank statements, contracts and personal and business credit history. If the appendix is long, you may want to consider adding a table of contents at the beginning of this section.

How much do you need?

with Fundera by NerdWallet

We’ll start with a brief questionnaire to better understand the unique needs of your business.

Once we uncover your personalized matches, our team will consult you on the process moving forward.

Here are some tips to help your business plan stand out:

Avoid over-optimism: If you’re applying for a business loan at a local bank, the loan officer likely knows your market pretty well. Providing unreasonable sales estimates can hurt your chances of loan approval.

Proofread: Spelling, punctuation and grammatical errors can jump off the page and turn off lenders and prospective investors, taking their mind off your business and putting it on the mistakes you made. If writing and editing aren't your strong suit, you may want to hire a professional business plan writer, copy editor or proofreader.

Use free resources: SCORE is a nonprofit association that offers a large network of volunteer business mentors and experts who can help you write or edit your business plan. You can search for a mentor or find a local SCORE chapter for more guidance.

The U.S. Small Business Administration’s Small Business Development Centers , which provide free business consulting and help with business plan development, can also be a resource.

On a similar note...

Find small-business financing

Compare multiple lenders that fit your business

One blue credit card on a flat surface with coins on both sides.

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Simple Business Plan

By Joe Weller | October 11, 2021

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A business plan is the cornerstone of any successful company, regardless of size or industry. This step-by-step guide provides information on writing a business plan for organizations at any stage, complete with free templates and expert advice. 

Included on this page, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to writing a business plan and a chart to identify which type of business plan you should write . Plus, find information on how a business plan can help grow a business and expert tips on writing one .

What Is a Business Plan?

A business plan is a document that communicates a company’s goals and ambitions, along with the timeline, finances, and methods needed to achieve them. Additionally, it may include a mission statement and details about the specific products or services offered.

A business plan can highlight varying time periods, depending on the stage of your company and its goals. That said, a typical business plan will include the following benchmarks:

  • Product goals and deadlines for each month
  • Monthly financials for the first two years
  • Profit and loss statements for the first three to five years
  • Balance sheet projections for the first three to five years

Startups, entrepreneurs, and small businesses all create business plans to use as a guide as their new company progresses. Larger organizations may also create (and update) a business plan to keep high-level goals, financials, and timelines in check.

While you certainly need to have a formalized outline of your business’s goals and finances, creating a business plan can also help you determine a company’s viability, its profitability (including when it will first turn a profit), and how much money you will need from investors. In turn, a business plan has functional value as well: Not only does outlining goals help keep you accountable on a timeline, it can also attract investors in and of itself and, therefore, act as an effective strategy for growth.

For more information, visit our comprehensive guide to writing a strategic plan or download free strategic plan templates . This page focuses on for-profit business plans, but you can read our article with nonprofit business plan templates .

Business Plan Steps

The specific information in your business plan will vary, depending on the needs and goals of your venture, but a typical plan includes the following ordered elements:

  • Executive summary
  • Description of business
  • Market analysis
  • Competitive analysis
  • Description of organizational management
  • Description of product or services
  • Marketing plan
  • Sales strategy
  • Funding details (or request for funding)
  • Financial projections

If your plan is particularly long or complicated, consider adding a table of contents or an appendix for reference. For an in-depth description of each step listed above, read “ How to Write a Business Plan Step by Step ” below.

Broadly speaking, your audience includes anyone with a vested interest in your organization. They can include potential and existing investors, as well as customers, internal team members, suppliers, and vendors.

Do I Need a Simple or Detailed Plan?

Your business’s stage and intended audience dictates the level of detail your plan needs. Corporations require a thorough business plan — up to 100 pages. Small businesses or startups should have a concise plan focusing on financials and strategy.

How to Choose the Right Plan for Your Business

In order to identify which type of business plan you need to create, ask: “What do we want the plan to do?” Identify function first, and form will follow.

Use the chart below as a guide for what type of business plan to create:

Is the Order of Your Business Plan Important?

There is no set order for a business plan, with the exception of the executive summary, which should always come first. Beyond that, simply ensure that you organize the plan in a way that makes sense and flows naturally.

The Difference Between Traditional and Lean Business Plans

A traditional business plan follows the standard structure — because these plans encourage detail, they tend to require more work upfront and can run dozens of pages. A Lean business plan is less common and focuses on summarizing critical points for each section. These plans take much less work and typically run one page in length.

In general, you should use a traditional model for a legacy company, a large company, or any business that does not adhere to Lean (or another Agile method ). Use Lean if you expect the company to pivot quickly or if you already employ a Lean strategy with other business operations. Additionally, a Lean business plan can suffice if the document is for internal use only. Stick to a traditional version for investors, as they may be more sensitive to sudden changes or a high degree of built-in flexibility in the plan.

How to Write a Business Plan Step by Step

Writing a strong business plan requires research and attention to detail for each section. Below, you’ll find a 10-step guide to researching and defining each element in the plan.

Step 1: Executive Summary

The executive summary will always be the first section of your business plan. The goal is to answer the following questions:

  • What is the vision and mission of the company?
  • What are the company’s short- and long-term goals?

See our  roundup of executive summary examples and templates for samples. Read our executive summary guide to learn more about writing one.

Step 2: Description of Business

The goal of this section is to define the realm, scope, and intent of your venture. To do so, answer the following questions as clearly and concisely as possible:

  • What business are we in?
  • What does our business do?

Step 3: Market Analysis

In this section, provide evidence that you have surveyed and understand the current marketplace, and that your product or service satisfies a niche in the market. To do so, answer these questions:

  • Who is our customer? 
  • What does that customer value?

Step 4: Competitive Analysis

In many cases, a business plan proposes not a brand-new (or even market-disrupting) venture, but a more competitive version — whether via features, pricing, integrations, etc. — than what is currently available. In this section, answer the following questions to show that your product or service stands to outpace competitors:

  • Who is the competition? 
  • What do they do best? 
  • What is our unique value proposition?

Step 5: Description of Organizational Management

In this section, write an overview of the team members and other key personnel who are integral to success. List roles and responsibilities, and if possible, note the hierarchy or team structure.

Step 6: Description of Products or Services

In this section, clearly define your product or service, as well as all the effort and resources that go into producing it. The strength of your product largely defines the success of your business, so it’s imperative that you take time to test and refine the product before launching into marketing, sales, or funding details.

Questions to answer in this section are as follows:

  • What is the product or service?
  • How do we produce it, and what resources are necessary for production?

Step 7: Marketing Plan

In this section, define the marketing strategy for your product or service. This doesn’t need to be as fleshed out as a full marketing plan , but it should answer basic questions, such as the following:

  • Who is the target market (if different from existing customer base)?
  • What channels will you use to reach your target market?
  • What resources does your marketing strategy require, and do you have access to them?
  • If possible, do you have a rough estimate of timeline and budget?
  • How will you measure success?

Step 8: Sales Plan

Write an overview of the sales strategy, including the priorities of each cycle, steps to achieve these goals, and metrics for success. For the purposes of a business plan, this section does not need to be a comprehensive, in-depth sales plan , but can simply outline the high-level objectives and strategies of your sales efforts. 

Start by answering the following questions:

  • What is the sales strategy?
  • What are the tools and tactics you will use to achieve your goals?
  • What are the potential obstacles, and how will you overcome them?
  • What is the timeline for sales and turning a profit?
  • What are the metrics of success?

Step 9: Funding Details (or Request for Funding)

This section is one of the most critical parts of your business plan, particularly if you are sharing it with investors. You do not need to provide a full financial plan, but you should be able to answer the following questions:

  • How much capital do you currently have? How much capital do you need?
  • How will you grow the team (onboarding, team structure, training and development)?
  • What are your physical needs and constraints (space, equipment, etc.)?

Step 10: Financial Projections

Apart from the fundraising analysis, investors like to see thought-out financial projections for the future. As discussed earlier, depending on the scope and stage of your business, this could be anywhere from one to five years. 

While these projections won’t be exact — and will need to be somewhat flexible — you should be able to gauge the following:

  • How and when will the company first generate a profit?
  • How will the company maintain profit thereafter?

Business Plan Template

Business Plan Template

Download Business Plan Template

Microsoft Excel | Smartsheet

This basic business plan template has space for all the traditional elements: an executive summary, product or service details, target audience, marketing and sales strategies, etc. In the finances sections, input your baseline numbers, and the template will automatically calculate projections for sales forecasting, financial statements, and more.

For templates tailored to more specific needs, visit this business plan template roundup or download a fill-in-the-blank business plan template to make things easy. 

If you are looking for a particular template by file type, visit our pages dedicated exclusively to Microsoft Excel , Microsoft Word , and Adobe PDF business plan templates.

How to Write a Simple Business Plan

A simple business plan is a streamlined, lightweight version of the large, traditional model. As opposed to a one-page business plan , which communicates high-level information for quick overviews (such as a stakeholder presentation), a simple business plan can exceed one page.

Below are the steps for creating a generic simple business plan, which are reflected in the template below .

  • Write the Executive Summary This section is the same as in the traditional business plan — simply offer an overview of what’s in the business plan, the prospect or core offering, and the short- and long-term goals of the company. 
  • Add a Company Overview Document the larger company mission and vision. 
  • Provide the Problem and Solution In straightforward terms, define the problem you are attempting to solve with your product or service and how your company will attempt to do it. Think of this section as the gap in the market you are attempting to close.
  • Identify the Target Market Who is your company (and its products or services) attempting to reach? If possible, briefly define your buyer personas .
  • Write About the Competition In this section, demonstrate your knowledge of the market by listing the current competitors and outlining your competitive advantage.
  • Describe Your Product or Service Offerings Get down to brass tacks and define your product or service. What exactly are you selling?
  • Outline Your Marketing Tactics Without getting into too much detail, describe your planned marketing initiatives.
  • Add a Timeline and the Metrics You Will Use to Measure Success Offer a rough timeline, including milestones and key performance indicators (KPIs) that you will use to measure your progress.
  • Include Your Financial Forecasts Write an overview of your financial plan that demonstrates you have done your research and adequate modeling. You can also list key assumptions that go into this forecasting. 
  • Identify Your Financing Needs This section is where you will make your funding request. Based on everything in the business plan, list your proposed sources of funding, as well as how you will use it.

Simple Business Plan Template

Simple Business Plan Template

Download Simple Business Plan Template

Microsoft Excel |  Microsoft Word | Adobe PDF  | Smartsheet

Use this simple business plan template to outline each aspect of your organization, including information about financing and opportunities to seek out further funding. This template is completely customizable to fit the needs of any business, whether it’s a startup or large company.

Read our article offering free simple business plan templates or free 30-60-90-day business plan templates to find more tailored options. You can also explore our collection of one page business templates . 

How to Write a Business Plan for a Lean Startup

A Lean startup business plan is a more Agile approach to a traditional version. The plan focuses more on activities, processes, and relationships (and maintains flexibility in all aspects), rather than on concrete deliverables and timelines.

While there is some overlap between a traditional and a Lean business plan, you can write a Lean plan by following the steps below:

  • Add Your Value Proposition Take a streamlined approach to describing your product or service. What is the unique value your startup aims to deliver to customers? Make sure the team is aligned on the core offering and that you can state it in clear, simple language.
  • List Your Key Partners List any other businesses you will work with to realize your vision, including external vendors, suppliers, and partners. This section demonstrates that you have thoughtfully considered the resources you can provide internally, identified areas for external assistance, and conducted research to find alternatives.
  • Note the Key Activities Describe the key activities of your business, including sourcing, production, marketing, distribution channels, and customer relationships.
  • Include Your Key Resources List the critical resources — including personnel, equipment, space, and intellectual property — that will enable you to deliver your unique value.
  • Identify Your Customer Relationships and Channels In this section, document how you will reach and build relationships with customers. Provide a high-level map of the customer experience from start to finish, including the spaces in which you will interact with the customer (online, retail, etc.). 
  • Detail Your Marketing Channels Describe the marketing methods and communication platforms you will use to identify and nurture your relationships with customers. These could be email, advertising, social media, etc.
  • Explain the Cost Structure This section is especially necessary in the early stages of a business. Will you prioritize maximizing value or keeping costs low? List the foundational startup costs and how you will move toward profit over time.
  • Share Your Revenue Streams Over time, how will the company make money? Include both the direct product or service purchase, as well as secondary sources of revenue, such as subscriptions, selling advertising space, fundraising, etc.

Lean Business Plan Template for Startups

Lean Business Plan Templates for Startups

Download Lean Business Plan Template for Startups

Microsoft Word | Adobe PDF

Startup leaders can use this Lean business plan template to relay the most critical information from a traditional plan. You’ll find all the sections listed above, including spaces for industry and product overviews, cost structure and sources of revenue, and key metrics, and a timeline. The template is completely customizable, so you can edit it to suit the objectives of your Lean startups.

See our wide variety of  startup business plan templates for more options.

How to Write a Business Plan for a Loan

A business plan for a loan, often called a loan proposal , includes many of the same aspects of a traditional business plan, as well as additional financial documents, such as a credit history, a loan request, and a loan repayment plan.

In addition, you may be asked to include personal and business financial statements, a form of collateral, and equity investment information.

Download free financial templates to support your business plan.

Tips for Writing a Business Plan

Outside of including all the key details in your business plan, you have several options to elevate the document for the highest chance of winning funding and other resources. Follow these tips from experts:.

  • Keep It Simple: Avner Brodsky , the Co-Founder and CEO of Lezgo Limited, an online marketing company, uses the acronym KISS (keep it short and simple) as a variation on this idea. “The business plan is not a college thesis,” he says. “Just focus on providing the essential information.”
  • Do Adequate Research: Michael Dean, the Co-Founder of Pool Research , encourages business leaders to “invest time in research, both internal and external (market, finance, legal etc.). Avoid being overly ambitious or presumptive. Instead, keep everything objective, balanced, and accurate.” Your plan needs to stand on its own, and you must have the data to back up any claims or forecasting you make. As Brodsky explains, “Your business needs to be grounded on the realities of the market in your chosen location. Get the most recent data from authoritative sources so that the figures are vetted by experts and are reliable.”
  • Set Clear Goals: Make sure your plan includes clear, time-based goals. “Short-term goals are key to momentum growth and are especially important to identify for new businesses,” advises Dean.
  • Know (and Address) Your Weaknesses: “This awareness sets you up to overcome your weak points much quicker than waiting for them to arise,” shares Dean. Brodsky recommends performing a full SWOT analysis to identify your weaknesses, too. “Your business will fare better with self-knowledge, which will help you better define the mission of your business, as well as the strategies you will choose to achieve your objectives,” he adds.
  • Seek Peer or Mentor Review: “Ask for feedback on your drafts and for areas to improve,” advises Brodsky. “When your mind is filled with dreams for your business, sometimes it is an outsider who can tell you what you’re missing and will save your business from being a product of whimsy.”

Outside of these more practical tips, the language you use is also important and may make or break your business plan.

Shaun Heng, VP of Operations at Coin Market Cap , gives the following advice on the writing, “Your business plan is your sales pitch to an investor. And as with any sales pitch, you need to strike the right tone and hit a few emotional chords. This is a little tricky in a business plan, because you also need to be formal and matter-of-fact. But you can still impress by weaving in descriptive language and saying things in a more elegant way.

“A great way to do this is by expanding your vocabulary, avoiding word repetition, and using business language. Instead of saying that something ‘will bring in as many customers as possible,’ try saying ‘will garner the largest possible market segment.’ Elevate your writing with precise descriptive words and you'll impress even the busiest investor.”

Additionally, Dean recommends that you “stay consistent and concise by keeping your tone and style steady throughout, and your language clear and precise. Include only what is 100 percent necessary.”

Resources for Writing a Business Plan

While a template provides a great outline of what to include in a business plan, a live document or more robust program can provide additional functionality, visibility, and real-time updates. The U.S. Small Business Association also curates resources for writing a business plan.

Additionally, you can use business plan software to house data, attach documentation, and share information with stakeholders. Popular options include LivePlan, Enloop, BizPlanner, PlanGuru, and iPlanner.

How a Business Plan Helps to Grow Your Business

A business plan — both the exercise of creating one and the document — can grow your business by helping you to refine your product, target audience, sales plan, identify opportunities, secure funding, and build new partnerships. 

Outside of these immediate returns, writing a business plan is a useful exercise in that it forces you to research the market, which prompts you to forge your unique value proposition and identify ways to beat the competition. Doing so will also help you build (and keep you accountable to) attainable financial and product milestones. And down the line, it will serve as a welcome guide as hurdles inevitably arise.

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How to make a business plan

Strategic planning in Miro

Table of Contents

How to make a good business plan: step-by-step guide.

A business plan is a strategic roadmap used to navigate the challenging journey of entrepreneurship. It's the foundation upon which you build a successful business.

A well-crafted business plan can help you define your vision, clarify your goals, and identify potential problems before they arise.

But where do you start? How do you create a business plan that sets you up for success?

This article will explore the step-by-step process of creating a comprehensive business plan.

What is a business plan?

A business plan is a formal document that outlines a business's objectives, strategies, and operational procedures. It typically includes the following information about a company:

Products or services

Target market

Competitors

Marketing and sales strategies

Financial plan

Management team

A business plan serves as a roadmap for a company's success and provides a blueprint for its growth and development. It helps entrepreneurs and business owners organize their ideas, evaluate the feasibility, and identify potential challenges and opportunities.

As well as serving as a guide for business owners, a business plan can attract investors and secure funding. It demonstrates the company's understanding of the market, its ability to generate revenue and profits, and its strategy for managing risks and achieving success.

Business plan vs. business model canvas

A business plan may seem similar to a business model canvas, but each document serves a different purpose.

A business model canvas is a high-level overview that helps entrepreneurs and business owners quickly test and iterate their ideas. It is often a one-page document that briefly outlines the following:

Key partnerships

Key activities

Key propositions

Customer relationships

Customer segments

Key resources

Cost structure

Revenue streams

On the other hand, a Business Plan Template provides a more in-depth analysis of a company's strategy and operations. It is typically a lengthy document and requires significant time and effort to develop.

A business model shouldn’t replace a business plan, and vice versa. Business owners should lay the foundations and visually capture the most important information with a Business Model Canvas Template . Because this is a fast and efficient way to communicate a business idea, a business model canvas is a good starting point before developing a more comprehensive business plan.

A business plan can aim to secure funding from investors or lenders, while a business model canvas communicates a business idea to potential customers or partners.

Why is a business plan important?

A business plan is crucial for any entrepreneur or business owner wanting to increase their chances of success.

Here are some of the many benefits of having a thorough business plan.

Helps to define the business goals and objectives

A business plan encourages you to think critically about your goals and objectives. Doing so lets you clearly understand what you want to achieve and how you plan to get there.

A well-defined set of goals, objectives, and key results also provides a sense of direction and purpose, which helps keep business owners focused and motivated.

Guides decision-making

A business plan requires you to consider different scenarios and potential problems that may arise in your business. This awareness allows you to devise strategies to deal with these issues and avoid pitfalls.

With a clear plan, entrepreneurs can make informed decisions aligning with their overall business goals and objectives. This helps reduce the risk of making costly mistakes and ensures they make decisions with long-term success in mind.

Attracts investors and secures funding

Investors and lenders often require a business plan before considering investing in your business. A document that outlines the company's goals, objectives, and financial forecasts can help instill confidence in potential investors and lenders.

A well-written business plan demonstrates that you have thoroughly thought through your business idea and have a solid plan for success.

Identifies potential challenges and risks

A business plan requires entrepreneurs to consider potential challenges and risks that could impact their business. For example:

Is there enough demand for my product or service?

Will I have enough capital to start my business?

Is the market oversaturated with too many competitors?

What will happen if my marketing strategy is ineffective?

By identifying these potential challenges, entrepreneurs can develop strategies to mitigate risks and overcome challenges. This can reduce the likelihood of costly mistakes and ensure the business is well-positioned to take on any challenges.

Provides a basis for measuring success

A business plan serves as a framework for measuring success by providing clear goals and financial projections . Entrepreneurs can regularly refer to the original business plan as a benchmark to measure progress. By comparing the current business position to initial forecasts, business owners can answer questions such as:

Are we where we want to be at this point?

Did we achieve our goals?

If not, why not, and what do we need to do?

After assessing whether the business is meeting its objectives or falling short, business owners can adjust their strategies as needed.

How to make a business plan step by step

The steps below will guide you through the process of creating a business plan and what key components you need to include.

1. Create an executive summary

Start with a brief overview of your entire plan. The executive summary should cover your business plan's main points and key takeaways.

Keep your executive summary concise and clear with the Executive Summary Template . The simple design helps readers understand the crux of your business plan without reading the entire document.

2. Write your company description

Provide a detailed explanation of your company. Include information on what your company does, the mission statement, and your vision for the future.

Provide additional background information on the history of your company, the founders, and any notable achievements or milestones.

3. Conduct a market analysis

Conduct an in-depth analysis of your industry, competitors, and target market. This is best done with a SWOT analysis to identify your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Next, identify your target market's needs, demographics, and behaviors.

Use the Competitive Analysis Template to brainstorm answers to simple questions like:

What does the current market look like?

Who are your competitors?

What are they offering?

What will give you a competitive advantage?

Who is your target market?

What are they looking for and why?

How will your product or service satisfy a need?

These questions should give you valuable insights into the current market and where your business stands.

4. Describe your products and services

Provide detailed information about your products and services. This includes pricing information, product features, and any unique selling points.

Use the Product/Market Fit Template to explain how your products meet the needs of your target market. Describe what sets them apart from the competition.

5. Design a marketing and sales strategy

Outline how you plan to promote and sell your products. Your marketing strategy and sales strategy should include information about your:

Pricing strategy

Advertising and promotional tactics

Sales channels

The Go to Market Strategy Template is a great way to visually map how you plan to launch your product or service in a new or existing market.

6. Determine budget and financial projections

Document detailed information on your business’ finances. Describe the current financial position of the company and how you expect the finances to play out.

Some details to include in this section are:

Startup costs

Revenue projections

Profit and loss statement

Funding you have received or plan to receive

Strategy for raising funds

7. Set the organization and management structure

Define how your company is structured and who will be responsible for each aspect of the business. Use the Business Organizational Chart Template to visually map the company’s teams, roles, and hierarchy.

As well as the organization and management structure, discuss the legal structure of your business. Clarify whether your business is a corporation, partnership, sole proprietorship, or LLC.

8. Make an action plan

At this point in your business plan, you’ve described what you’re aiming for. But how are you going to get there? The Action Plan Template describes the following steps to move your business plan forward. Outline the next steps you plan to take to bring your business plan to fruition.

Types of business plans

Several types of business plans cater to different purposes and stages of a company's lifecycle. Here are some of the most common types of business plans.

Startup business plan

A startup business plan is typically an entrepreneur's first business plan. This document helps entrepreneurs articulate their business idea when starting a new business.

Not sure how to make a business plan for a startup? It’s pretty similar to a regular business plan, except the primary purpose of a startup business plan is to convince investors to provide funding for the business. A startup business plan also outlines the potential target market, product/service offering, marketing plan, and financial projections.

Strategic business plan

A strategic business plan is a long-term plan that outlines a company's overall strategy, objectives, and tactics. This type of strategic plan focuses on the big picture and helps business owners set goals and priorities and measure progress.

The primary purpose of a strategic business plan is to provide direction and guidance to the company's management team and stakeholders. The plan typically covers a period of three to five years.

Operational business plan

An operational business plan is a detailed document that outlines the day-to-day operations of a business. It focuses on the specific activities and processes required to run the business, such as:

Organizational structure

Staffing plan

Production plan

Quality control

Inventory management

Supply chain

The primary purpose of an operational business plan is to ensure that the business runs efficiently and effectively. It helps business owners manage their resources, track their performance, and identify areas for improvement.

Growth-business plan

A growth-business plan is a strategic plan that outlines how a company plans to expand its business. It helps business owners identify new market opportunities and increase revenue and profitability. The primary purpose of a growth-business plan is to provide a roadmap for the company's expansion and growth.

The 3 Horizons of Growth Template is a great tool to identify new areas of growth. This framework categorizes growth opportunities into three categories: Horizon 1 (core business), Horizon 2 (emerging business), and Horizon 3 (potential business).

One-page business plan

A one-page business plan is a condensed version of a full business plan that focuses on the most critical aspects of a business. It’s a great tool for entrepreneurs who want to quickly communicate their business idea to potential investors, partners, or employees.

A one-page business plan typically includes sections such as business concept, value proposition, revenue streams, and cost structure.

Best practices for how to make a good business plan

Here are some additional tips for creating a business plan:

Use a template

A template can help you organize your thoughts and effectively communicate your business ideas and strategies. Starting with a template can also save you time and effort when formatting your plan.

Miro’s extensive library of customizable templates includes all the necessary sections for a comprehensive business plan. With our templates, you can confidently present your business plans to stakeholders and investors.

Be practical

Avoid overestimating revenue projections or underestimating expenses. Your business plan should be grounded in practical realities like your budget, resources, and capabilities.

Be specific

Provide as much detail as possible in your business plan. A specific plan is easier to execute because it provides clear guidance on what needs to be done and how. Without specific details, your plan may be too broad or vague, making it difficult to know where to start or how to measure success.

Be thorough with your research

Conduct thorough research to fully understand the market, your competitors, and your target audience . By conducting thorough research, you can identify potential risks and challenges your business may face and develop strategies to mitigate them.

Get input from others

It can be easy to become overly focused on your vision and ideas, leading to tunnel vision and a lack of objectivity. By seeking input from others, you can identify potential opportunities you may have overlooked.

Review and revise regularly

A business plan is a living document. You should update it regularly to reflect market, industry, and business changes. Set aside time for regular reviews and revisions to ensure your plan remains relevant and effective.

Create a winning business plan to chart your path to success

Starting or growing a business can be challenging, but it doesn't have to be. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting, a well-written business plan can make or break your business’ success.

The purpose of a business plan is more than just to secure funding and attract investors. It also serves as a roadmap for achieving your business goals and realizing your vision. With the right mindset, tools, and strategies, you can develop a visually appealing, persuasive business plan.

Ready to make an effective business plan that works for you? Check out our library of ready-made strategy and planning templates and chart your path to success.

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What Is a Business Plan?

Understanding business plans, how to write a business plan, common elements of a business plan, how often should a business plan be updated, the bottom line, business plan: what it is, what's included, and how to write one.

Adam Hayes, Ph.D., CFA, is a financial writer with 15+ years Wall Street experience as a derivatives trader. Besides his extensive derivative trading expertise, Adam is an expert in economics and behavioral finance. Adam received his master's in economics from The New School for Social Research and his Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in sociology. He is a CFA charterholder as well as holding FINRA Series 7, 55 & 63 licenses. He currently researches and teaches economic sociology and the social studies of finance at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem.

create new business plan

A business plan is a document that details a company's goals and how it intends to achieve them. Business plans can be of benefit to both startups and well-established companies. For startups, a business plan can be essential for winning over potential lenders and investors. Established businesses can find one useful for staying on track and not losing sight of their goals. This article explains what an effective business plan needs to include and how to write one.

Key Takeaways

  • A business plan is a document describing a company's business activities and how it plans to achieve its goals.
  • Startup companies use business plans to get off the ground and attract outside investors.
  • For established companies, a business plan can help keep the executive team focused on and working toward the company's short- and long-term objectives.
  • There is no single format that a business plan must follow, but there are certain key elements that most companies will want to include.

Investopedia / Ryan Oakley

Any new business should have a business plan in place prior to beginning operations. In fact, banks and venture capital firms often want to see a business plan before they'll consider making a loan or providing capital to new businesses.

Even if a business isn't looking to raise additional money, a business plan can help it focus on its goals. A 2017 Harvard Business Review article reported that, "Entrepreneurs who write formal plans are 16% more likely to achieve viability than the otherwise identical nonplanning entrepreneurs."

Ideally, a business plan should be reviewed and updated periodically to reflect any goals that have been achieved or that may have changed. An established business that has decided to move in a new direction might create an entirely new business plan for itself.

There are numerous benefits to creating (and sticking to) a well-conceived business plan. These include being able to think through ideas before investing too much money in them and highlighting any potential obstacles to success. A company might also share its business plan with trusted outsiders to get their objective feedback. In addition, a business plan can help keep a company's executive team on the same page about strategic action items and priorities.

Business plans, even among competitors in the same industry, are rarely identical. However, they often have some of the same basic elements, as we describe below.

While it's a good idea to provide as much detail as necessary, it's also important that a business plan be concise enough to hold a reader's attention to the end.

While there are any number of templates that you can use to write a business plan, it's best to try to avoid producing a generic-looking one. Let your plan reflect the unique personality of your business.

Many business plans use some combination of the sections below, with varying levels of detail, depending on the company.

The length of a business plan can vary greatly from business to business. Regardless, it's best to fit the basic information into a 15- to 25-page document. Other crucial elements that take up a lot of space—such as applications for patents—can be referenced in the main document and attached as appendices.

These are some of the most common elements in many business plans:

  • Executive summary: This section introduces the company and includes its mission statement along with relevant information about the company's leadership, employees, operations, and locations.
  • Products and services: Here, the company should describe the products and services it offers or plans to introduce. That might include details on pricing, product lifespan, and unique benefits to the consumer. Other factors that could go into this section include production and manufacturing processes, any relevant patents the company may have, as well as proprietary technology . Information about research and development (R&D) can also be included here.
  • Market analysis: A company needs to have a good handle on the current state of its industry and the existing competition. This section should explain where the company fits in, what types of customers it plans to target, and how easy or difficult it may be to take market share from incumbents.
  • Marketing strategy: This section can describe how the company plans to attract and keep customers, including any anticipated advertising and marketing campaigns. It should also describe the distribution channel or channels it will use to get its products or services to consumers.
  • Financial plans and projections: Established businesses can include financial statements, balance sheets, and other relevant financial information. New businesses can provide financial targets and estimates for the first few years. Your plan might also include any funding requests you're making.

The best business plans aren't generic ones created from easily accessed templates. A company should aim to entice readers with a plan that demonstrates its uniqueness and potential for success.

2 Types of Business Plans

Business plans can take many forms, but they are sometimes divided into two basic categories: traditional and lean startup. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) , the traditional business plan is the more common of the two.

  • Traditional business plans : These plans tend to be much longer than lean startup plans and contain considerably more detail. As a result they require more work on the part of the business, but they can also be more persuasive (and reassuring) to potential investors.
  • Lean startup business plans : These use an abbreviated structure that highlights key elements. These business plans are short—as short as one page—and provide only the most basic detail. If a company wants to use this kind of plan, it should be prepared to provide more detail if an investor or a lender requests it.

Why Do Business Plans Fail?

A business plan is not a surefire recipe for success. The plan may have been unrealistic in its assumptions and projections to begin with. Markets and the overall economy might change in ways that couldn't have been foreseen. A competitor might introduce a revolutionary new product or service. All of this calls for building some flexibility into your plan, so you can pivot to a new course if needed.

How frequently a business plan needs to be revised will depend on the nature of the business. A well-established business might want to review its plan once a year and make changes if necessary. A new or fast-growing business in a fiercely competitive market might want to revise it more often, such as quarterly.

What Does a Lean Startup Business Plan Include?

The lean startup business plan is an option when a company prefers to give a quick explanation of its business. For example, a brand-new company may feel that it doesn't have a lot of information to provide yet.

Sections can include: a value proposition ; the company's major activities and advantages; resources such as staff, intellectual property, and capital; a list of partnerships; customer segments; and revenue sources.

A business plan can be useful to companies of all kinds. But as a company grows and the world around it changes, so too should its business plan. So don't think of your business plan as carved in granite but as a living document designed to evolve with your business.

Harvard Business Review. " Research: Writing a Business Plan Makes Your Startup More Likely to Succeed ."

U.S. Small Business Administration. " Write Your Business Plan ."

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Your business plan can include these sections: executive summary, company description, market analysis, organization management, service/product line, marketing & sales, funding requests, financial projections, etc. Add sections to your business plan as you see fit — depending on the kind of plan you're creating. No matter the type of business plans you're making, Venngage has a template for that.

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550+ Business Plan Examples to Launch Your Business

550+ Free Sample Business Plans

Need help writing your business plan? Explore over 550 industry-specific business plan examples for inspiration. Go even further with LivePlan , which harnesses AI-assisted writing features and SBA-approved plan examples to get you funded.

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Example business plan format

Before you start exploring our library of business plan examples, it's worth taking the time to understand the traditional business plan format . You'll find that the plans in this library and most investor-approved business plans will include the following sections:

Executive summary

The executive summary is an overview of your business and your plans. It comes first in your plan and is ideally only one to two pages. You should also plan to write this section last after you've written your full business plan.

Your executive summary should include a summary of the problem you are solving, a description of your product or service, an overview of your target market, a brief description of your team, a summary of your financials, and your funding requirements (if you are raising money).

Products & services

The products & services chapter of your business plan is where the real meat of your plan lives. It includes information about the problem that you're solving, your solution, and any traction that proves that it truly meets the need you identified.

This is your chance to explain why you're in business and that people care about what you offer. It needs to go beyond a simple product or service description and get to the heart of why your business works and benefits your customers.

Market analysis

Conducting a market analysis ensures that you fully understand the market that you're entering and who you'll be selling to. This section is where you will showcase all of the information about your potential customers. You'll cover your target market as well as information about the growth of your market and your industry. Focus on outlining why the market you're entering is viable and creating a realistic persona for your ideal customer base.

Competition

Part of defining your opportunity is determining what your competitive advantage may be. To do this effectively you need to get to know your competitors just as well as your target customers. Every business will have competition, if you don't then you're either in a very young industry or there's a good reason no one is pursuing this specific venture.

To succeed, you want to be sure you know who your competitors are, how they operate, necessary financial benchmarks, and how you're business will be positioned. Start by identifying who your competitors are or will be during your market research. Then leverage competitive analysis tools like the competitive matrix and positioning map to solidify where your business stands in relation to the competition.

Marketing & sales

The marketing and sales plan section of your business plan details how you plan to reach your target market segments. You'll address how you plan on selling to those target markets, what your pricing plan is, and what types of activities and partnerships you need to make your business a success.

The operations section covers the day-to-day workflows for your business to deliver your product or service. What's included here fully depends on the type of business. Typically you can expect to add details on your business location, sourcing and fulfillment, use of technology, and any partnerships or agreements that are in place.

Milestones & metrics

The milestones section is where you lay out strategic milestones to reach your business goals.

A good milestone clearly lays out the parameters of the task at hand and sets expectations for its execution. You'll want to include a description of the task, a proposed due date, who is responsible, and eventually a budget that's attached. You don't need extensive project planning in this section, just key milestones that you want to hit and when you plan to hit them.

You should also discuss key metrics, which are the numbers you will track to determine your success. Some common data points worth tracking include conversion rates, customer acquisition costs, profit, etc.

Company & team

Use this section to describe your current team and who you need to hire. If you intend to pursue funding, you'll need to highlight the relevant experience of your team members. Basically, this is where you prove that this is the right team to successfully start and grow the business. You will also need to provide a quick overview of your legal structure and history if you're already up and running.

Financial projections

Your financial plan should include a sales and revenue forecast, profit and loss statement, cash flow statement, and a balance sheet. You may not have established financials of any kind at this stage. Not to worry, rather than getting all of the details ironed out, focus on making projections and strategic forecasts for your business. You can always update your financial statements as you begin operations and start bringing in actual accounting data.

Now, if you intend to pitch to investors or submit a loan application, you'll also need a "use of funds" report in this section. This outlines how you intend to leverage any funding for your business and how much you're looking to acquire. Like the rest of your financials, this can always be updated later on.

The appendix isn't a required element of your business plan. However, it is a useful place to add any charts, tables, definitions, legal notes, or other critical information that supports your plan. These are often lengthier or out-of-place information that simply didn't work naturally into the structure of your plan. You'll notice that in these business plan examples, the appendix mainly includes extended financial statements.

Types of business plans explained

While all business plans cover similar categories, the style and function fully depend on how you intend to use your plan. To get the most out of your plan, it's best to find a format that suits your needs. Here are a few common business plan types worth considering.

Traditional business plan

The tried-and-true traditional business plan is a formal document meant to be used for external purposes. Typically this is the type of plan you'll need when applying for funding or pitching to investors. It can also be used when training or hiring employees, working with vendors, or in any other situation where the full details of your business must be understood by another individual.

Business model canvas

The business model canvas is a one-page template designed to demystify the business planning process. It removes the need for a traditional, copy-heavy business plan, in favor of a single-page outline that can help you and outside parties better explore your business idea.

The structure ditches a linear format in favor of a cell-based template. It encourages you to build connections between every element of your business. It's faster to write out and update, and much easier for you, your team, and anyone else to visualize your business operations.

One-page business plan

The true middle ground between the business model canvas and a traditional business plan is the one-page business plan . This format is a simplified version of the traditional plan that focuses on the core aspects of your business.

By starting with a one-page plan , you give yourself a minimal document to build from. You'll typically stick with bullet points and single sentences making it much easier to elaborate or expand sections into a longer-form business plan.

Growth planning

Growth planning is more than a specific type of business plan. It's a methodology. It takes the simplicity and styling of the one-page business plan and turns it into a process for you to continuously plan, forecast, review, and refine based on your performance.

It holds all of the benefits of the single-page plan, including the potential to complete it in as little as 27 minutes . However, it's even easier to convert into a more detailed plan thanks to how heavily it's tied to your financials. The overall goal of growth planning isn't to just produce documents that you use once and shelve. Instead, the growth planning process helps you build a healthier company that thrives in times of growth and remain stable through times of crisis.

It's faster, keeps your plan concise, and ensures that your plan is always up-to-date.

Download a free sample business plan template

Ready to start writing your own plan but aren't sure where to start? Download our free business plan template that's been updated for 2024.

This simple, modern, investor-approved business plan template is designed to make planning easy. It's a proven format that has helped over 1 million businesses write business plans for bank loans, funding pitches, business expansion, and even business sales. It includes additional instructions for how to write each section and is formatted to be SBA-lender approved. All you need to do is fill in the blanks.

How to use an example business plan to help you write your own

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How do you know what elements need to be included in your business plan, especially if you've never written one before? Looking at examples can help you visualize what a full, traditional plan looks like, so you know what you're aiming for before you get started. Here's how to get the most out of a sample business plan.

Choose a business plan example from a similar type of company

You don't need to find an example business plan that's an exact fit for your business. Your business location, target market, and even your particular product or service may not match up exactly with the plans in our gallery. But, you don't need an exact match for it to be helpful. Instead, look for a plan that's related to the type of business you're starting.

For example, if you want to start a vegetarian restaurant, a plan for a steakhouse can be a great match. While the specifics of your actual startup will differ, the elements you'd want to include in your restaurant's business plan are likely to be very similar.

Use a business plan example as a guide

Every startup and small business is unique, so you'll want to avoid copying an example business plan word for word. It just won't be as helpful, since each business is unique. You want your plan to be a useful tool for starting a business —and getting funding if you need it.

One of the key benefits of writing a business plan is simply going through the process. When you sit down to write, you'll naturally think through important pieces, like your startup costs, your target market , and any market analysis or research you'll need to do to be successful.

You'll also look at where you stand among your competition (and everyone has competition), and lay out your goals and the milestones you'll need to meet. Looking at an example business plan's financials section can be helpful because you can see what should be included, but take them with a grain of salt. Don't assume that financial projections for a sample company will fit your own small business.

If you're looking for more resources to help you get started, our business planning guide is a good place to start. You can also download our free business plan template , or get started right away with LivePlan .

Think of business planning as a process, instead of a document

Think about business planning as something you do often , rather than a document you create once and never look at again. If you take the time to write a plan that really fits your own company, it will be a better, more useful tool to grow your business. It should also make it easier to share your vision and strategy so everyone on your team is on the same page.

Adjust your plan regularly to use it as a business management tool

Keep in mind that businesses that use their plan as a management tool to help run their business grow 30 percent faster than those businesses that don't. For that to be true for your company, you'll think of a part of your business planning process as tracking your actual results against your financial forecast on a regular basis.

If things are going well, your plan will help you think about how you can re-invest in your business. If you find that you're not meeting goals, you might need to adjust your budgets or your sales forecast. Either way, tracking your progress compared to your plan can help you adjust quickly when you identify challenges and opportunities—it's one of the most powerful things you can do to grow your business.

Prepare to pitch your business

If you're planning to pitch your business to investors or seek out any funding, you'll need a pitch deck to accompany your business plan. A pitch deck is designed to inform people about your business. You want your pitch deck to be short and easy to follow, so it's best to keep your presentation under 20 slides.

Your pitch deck and pitch presentation are likely some of the first things that an investor will see to learn more about your company. So, you need to be informative and pique their interest. Luckily, just like you can leverage an example business plan template to write your plan, we also have a gallery of over 50 pitch decks for you to reference.

With this gallery, you have the option to view specific industry pitches or get inspired by real-world pitch deck examples. Or for a modern pitch solution that helps you create a business plan and pitch deck side-by-side, you may want to check out LivePlan . It will help you build everything needed for outside investment and to better manage your business.

Get LivePlan in your classroom

Are you an educator looking for real-world business plan examples for your students? With LivePlan, you give your students access to industry-best business plans and help them set goals and track metrics with spreadsheet-free financial forecasts. All of this within a single tool that includes additional instructional resources that work seamlessly alongside your current classroom setup.

With LivePlan, it's not just a classroom project. It's your students planning for their futures. Click here to learn more about business planning for students .

Ready to get started?

Now that you know how to use an example business plan to help you write a plan for your business, it's time to find the right one.

Use the search bar below to get started and find the right match for your business idea.

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How to start a small business at home in 2024

Blair Travers

Sierra Campbell

Sierra Campbell

“Verified by an expert” means that this article has been thoroughly reviewed and evaluated for accuracy.

Published 8:07 a.m. UTC Feb. 16, 2024

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Featured Image

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Starting a small business at home can help you turn your passions, skills or ideas into financial prosperity. There are some unique perks and challenges to consider when deciding to start a home-based business. 

You’ll also want to have a solid plan and follow some key steps to get your business off on the right foot. It’s helpful to know where you can find ideas, answers to your questions and other resources you need to run an at-home business successfully.

Should you start a business at home?

There are many factors to consider when deciding to start a small business at home. On the one hand, it’s important to make sure there is demand for your business. On the other hand, you want to be able to handle the amount of business you receive. Gauging things like demand, profit margins and the ability to scale your business early on can help you avoid trouble down the road.

Across the country, at-home businesses make up a large portion of small businesses. C.E. “Tee” Rowe is the president and CEO of America’s Small Business Development Centers (SBDC), which provides free or low-cost support for small businesses in partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration. “Here at America’s SBDC, we have seen an uptick in home-based businesses that started during the pandemic but continues to date,” said Rowe. 

Pros of a home business

Here are some key benefits to starting a business at home:

  • Increased flexibility: Set your own hours, freeing you up for other commitments as needed.
  • Less commuting: Save time and money by skipping the drive to work.
  • Comfortable work environment: Design your workspace how you want it. After all, it is your home.
  • Money-saving perks: Pay lower startup costs compared to larger businesses by avoiding costs like renting retail or office space. Take advantage of tax breaks for at-home businesses.
  • Reduce risk: Protect yourself by limiting your liability and avoiding the cost and risk of maintaining commercial space.
  • Rewards for your hard work: Work hard for your business, and your business reaps the benefits instead of some other employer.

Cons of a home business

These are some of the disadvantages of starting a business at home:

  • Limited space: You give up part of your home, and even then, you may still need more space for your business.
  • Distracting work environment: Crying babies, barking dogs and loud neighbors can all be distracting when running a business at home.
  • Professional boundaries: Some people may feel awkward about meeting to discuss business at your home or a public location.
  • Increased mental health risks: Running a home business can feel isolating for some. A lack of social interaction, time outside, work-life balance or effective time management can also threaten mental health.
  • Growth restrictive: If your home-based business scales too rapidly, you may outgrow your workspace quickly. In this situation, success creates a problem for home businesses to solve.
  • Increased costs: Whether you’re paying new employee salaries or wages or forking over more money for higher utility bills, you may feel the financial squeeze.

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7 steps to start a home business

After considering the pros and cons, does the idea of taking the reins and starting a home business appeal to you? You’re not alone. 

“When we work with individuals seeking to start a home-based business, it is frequently based on a desire to control their own circumstance and success, which are great reasons, but it always needs to be thought out carefully,” Rowe explained.

Planning is key. From creating a business plan and determining your business structure to securing funding and setting your marketing strategy, there’s a lot to think through. Follow the steps below to get on the right track to starting a small business at home.

1. Find your niche

Plenty of successful at-home businesses arise from emotion: a passion to do what you love, a frustration with the status quo or excitement to seize on a timely opportunity.

If you’re struggling to find your niche, ask yourself:

  • What do you love to do that others may find challenging?
  • What is a need that no business currently has the right solution for?
  • What are you good at? What do people ask for your help with?
  • What high-demand skills or services do you have to offer?

2. Draft a business plan

Having a business plan is essential for running your business effectively. As Rowe pointed out, “Every business needs a solid, comprehensive plan to guide them to success. That plan needs to focus on skills, finance, revenue and marketing.”

A business plan outlines the direction of the business — its goals, strategies, structure, ways of measuring success and plans for dealing with things like change and risk. Simply put, it’s the roadmap to success for your business.

When creating your business plan, include key sections such as an executive summary, a business description, market analysis and financial projections. For more on what to cover, check out this step-by-step guide to drafting a business plan .

3. Select a business structure

According to the IRS, the most common business structures are sole proprietorships, partnerships , corporations and limited liability companies (LLC) . Each business structure comes with its own set of operational, legal, financial and tax considerations. 

A sole proprietorship is a business owned and operated by a single individual, while a partnership is jointly owned by two or more individuals who share responsibilities. 

In contrast, corporations — like C corporations and S corporations — are independent legal entities. C corporations limit shareholder liability but are highly complex. S corporations feature pass-through taxation, distributing income (and losses) to shareholders.

While sole proprietorship is a common structure for just starting out, LLC is another popular option for at-home businesses. It combines elements of a corporation and a partnership, offering limited liability to its members and the flexibility of pass-through taxation. Members of an LLC can choose to be taxed as a sole proprietorship, partnership, C corporation or S corporation.

4. Register your business and get an EIN

After you choose a business structure, you’ll need to register your business with state and federal governments. Select a business name , pay fees and provide required documents, which vary by state.

After getting registered with your state, you can then apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. Once you’re approved, you’ll receive this unique nine-digit number that is essential for all sorts of business purposes, from filing your taxes to hiring employees. 

Not all businesses need an EIN, such as sole proprietors and single-member LLCs with no employees.

5. Get any required licenses and permits

Depending on your industry and federal, state and local requirements, you may also need to obtain licenses and permits for your business. 

Here are some examples of licenses and permits you may need, depending on your business:

  • Occupational, professional or trade licenses.
  • Online business permits.
  • Sales tax permits.
  • Health department permits.
  • Safety permits.
  • Home-based child care licenses.
  • Zoning, signage, environmental and other permits to operate an at-home business, as required by local government, HOA or deed restrictions.

6. Obtain funding for your business

Many owners fund their businesses using their own savings. Self-funding is a viable choice if you can get up and running without much money, can come up with the needed funding from your own accounts or can ask for help from family or friends. 

You can also apply for a business loan . Banks will likely want to see a rock-solid business plan, strong financial projections, good personal and/or business credit history and any collateral you’ll use for your loan. If you are a good candidate for lending, make sure that shows in your application so that you can get the best funding and terms for your business.

If you don’t have much personal or business credit history, it may be easier to get a business credit card . This gives you benefits like payment flexibility, credit card rewards and essential early or emergency spending power. It will also help your business establish or strengthen its credit so you can get favorable terms on future loans and other credit.

7. Launch and market your business

You’ve planned out your business, defined its structure and gotten your business registered, licensed, permitted and even paid for. Now it’s showtime. For many who seek to start a small business at home, the launch is the most exciting part of the journey. You are now ready to conduct business.

It’s also important to get others excited about your small business — and keep them engaged. Here are some of the most common marketing strategies for small home-based businesses:

  • Social media marketing: Reach potential customers on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X (formerly Twitter) by sharing engaging content and updates.
  • Business website: More than just a place to sell your products or services online, your business website should help users find what they want to meet their needs. It should also help achieve business objectives by offering features like payment services or e-commerce functionality .
  • Advertising: Platforms such as search engines and social media can help you reach your target audience.
  • Content marketing: Write blog posts, produce videos or create helpful graphics to explain what your business offers and to establish trust and authority.
  • Email marketing: To keep business coming back, build an email list to communicate using promotions, newsletters and updates.
  • Word of mouth: In the early stages, many small home-based businesses rely on word of mouth. You can also ask for customer reviews on platforms like Google and Yelp.

Weigh the costs and benefits when deciding on your marketing plan, so you choose what’s best for your business.

Top home business ideas

Check out these home business ideas to find the right fit for you:

  • Retail: Sell products you make — including crafts and customized gifts — or resell products you get for less than what you pay for them.
  • Case-based services: Open up an in-home daycare, provide home-based care for adults or even take care of pets by offering pet sitting and mobile grooming.
  • Events: Plan weddings and events. Create the perfect look as a makeup artist or stylist. Play music in a band or take your place on the 1s and 2s as a DJ.
  • Art and creative services: Capture the moment as a photographer, or maybe you’d rather bring your vision to life as an artist. More of a words person? Write, edit or translate content. 
  • Education: Teach the next generation how to do math, play an instrument or learn a new language. Provide adults with specialized training in arts and crafts, life coaching or test preparation.
  • Health and wellness: Become a personal trainer to get people in the best shape of their lives or a mental health counselor to help them find their inner peace.
  • Home and real estate: Transform homes by organizing, decorating or even staging. Produce virtual home tours for real estate agents, or become a realtor yourself.

Resources to start a business

For more resources and guidance on how to start a small business at home, check out these guides and articles:

  • Follow our step-by-step guide on how to start a business from the ground up.
  • Learn how to start an LLC if that’s your chosen business structure.
  • Discover how to start a business with no money so funding doesn’t hold you back.
  • Skip the overhead that comes with brick-and-mortar stores and find out how to start an online business .
  • Explore options to accept payments online and start making money in your sleep.
  • Find the cheapest payroll services to pay your employees and contractors.
  • Build a successful business by attracting loyal, repeat customers. 

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

The cost of starting a business at home varies widely and depends on several factors. Some businesses, including sole proprietorships, can get away with paying little to no money to start their business. Other home-based businesses, including those with manufacturing or inventory expenses, could have considerably higher startup costs.

Yes, you can use your home address to register a business. However, you’ll want to make sure that usage does not go against local laws, HOA bylaws or property covenants. It’s also a good idea to check with your mortgage and homeowners insurance companies to make sure that running a business out of your home does not introduce unforeseen headaches.

Blueprint is an independent publisher and comparison service, not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and we encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding specific financial decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Blueprint has an advertiser disclosure policy . The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Blueprint editorial staff alone. Blueprint adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.

Blair Travers

Blair Travers is a business writer and content strategist with over a decade of experience breaking down complex problems to help businesses move forward with confidence. He brings a wide range of technology, banking and retail expertise. Blair enjoys helping businesses figure out complex processes and make choices that are right for them. His work has been published in U.S. News & World Report and Carfax.

Sierra Campbell is a small business editor for USA Today Blueprint. She specializes in writing, editing and fact-checking content centered around helping businesses. She has worked as a digital content and show producer for several local TV stations, an editor for U.S. News & World Report and a freelance writer and editor for many companies. Sierra prides herself in delivering accurate and up-to-date information to readers. Her expertise includes credit card processing companies, e-commerce platforms, payroll software, accounting software and virtual private networks (VPNs). She also owns Editing by Sierra, where she offers editing services to writers of all backgrounds, including self-published and traditionally published authors.

How to start a small business: A step-by-step guide

How to start a small business: A step-by-step guide

Business Eric Rosenberg

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Create a Business Plan

Think of it as a playbook for your goals, priorities and growth opportunities., how to write a business plan.

Creating a business plan can feel like a huge undertaking when you are starting a new business . And while developing one does require careful thought, studies show that entrepreneurs who have a formal plan are often more successful than those who don’t. Keep reading to see how a business plan benefits you and the details you should include.

Prefer to just get started? Start creating your business plan with the RBC Business Plan Builder.

Content in this Article

What is a business plan? Benefits of writing a business plan Information to include in your business plan Create your plan with the RBC Business Plan Builder

What is a Business Plan?

Put simply, a business plan is a document that explains to others your vision for your business, the gap in the market your business will fill and the steps you will take to succeed. Creating a business plan is a crucial task for any business, and one which requires you to be thoughtful about the direction of your business, consider the goals most important to you, and how you will go about achieving them. A solid business plan will give you the confidence that you will find success, and may even reveal some gaps and risks. In fact, studies show entrepreneurs who start with a written business plan are more successful than those who don’t. Whether you’re creating a roadmap to follow as a new business owner, need a pitch to attract investors or a document to engage stakeholders, a business plan is a living document you’ll want to update regularly as your business, goals and circumstances evolve. While some business owners consider writing a business plan an overwhelming step, it doesn’t have to be. Creating the best business plan ever is a matter of breaking it down into individual steps — and then taking them one at a time.

Benefits of Writing a Business Plan

Writing a business plan can help you in several ways—here are just a few of the biggest benefits:

  • Provides a roadmap. A business plan requires you to be thoughtful about the direction of your business, consider the goals most important to you and how you will achieve them. Think of it as your step-by-step guide for success!
  • Reveals gaps or risks you need to address. By looking at your business critically, you’ll be able to identify your strengths as well as areas where you may be vulnerable.
  • Shows potential investors, stakeholders or lenders that you’re serious. Attract and engage those who may be interested in your business with all the important information they need to know.

Information to Include in Your Business Plan

Create an executive summary Describe the current business environment Outline your marketing and pricing strategies Describe how your business will operate Detail your financing and cash flow needs Describe your team (even if it’s just you) Identify risks and how you’ll protect your business Write a conclusion Include your contact information

Create an Executive Summary

After your cover page and table of contents, include an executive summary. Since this is the first thing readers will see, it should be clear, grab their attention and identify what your business does.

What to include:

  • Your industry, target market and how your business is different from the competition
  • Your business structure (sole proprietorship, corporation, etc.)
  • What stage your business is in
  • Your experience and credentials, as well as your team’s, if applicable
  • Financial projections for the business (or performance to date, if you’re already operating)

Tip: Write your executive summary last and keep it to one page. While it’s structurally the first section, it will summarize everything else in your plan.

Describe the Current Business Environment

This should be a detailed history and summary of your business, identifying the product(s) or service(s) you’re offering and how you will solve a problem or need in the market. Be sure to include any pre-market research or testing you’ve conducted that speaks to the viability of your idea.

When you’re starting a business , your bank and potential investors don’t have historical data to review. Your plan must clearly convey your strategy, competencies and the reasons your venture will succeed. (If your business is already established, you’ll want to cover where you started and how you got here.)

  • Where you want your business to go—and how you’ll get there. What are your goals? How will you generate sales?
  • What your business does. What needs does your business fulfill? Where will you sell your products or services?
  • Your business set up. How is your business structured ? Are there other owners or shareholders?
  • How you know your business will work. What market research or testing have you done? Are there trends?

Tip: Revisit your business idea by asking yourself these 7 key questions or use our business idea checklist to see the steps you may need to take to get to opening day.

Outline Your Marketing and Pricing Strategies

This is your opportunity to explain how you’re going to get customers to buy your products or services. This section involves identifying your ideal customers, your pricing strategy and more.

  • Your products, service and unique selling proposition. What are the features of your product or service and what makes it unique compared to what your competitors offer? How will you draw customers away from competitors?

Tip: Completing a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) analysis may help you write this section. Download a FREE SWOT Analysis Template

  • Your pricing strategy. How will your pricing be competitive, but still allow you to make a profit? See our factsheet: Pricing and Costing Accurately
  • Your sales and delivery strategy. How will you will generate sales? Will you sell directly to customers or through other businesses? How much will it cost to produce and ship your product?
  • Advertising and promotion strategy. Which advertising and promotion tactics (website, digital marketing, social media, email) will reach your audience most effectively?

Tip: Choose a few channels to do well instead of pursuing all of them at once. That way, you’ll be better able to direct your focus and monitor your progress.

Describe How Your Business Will Operate

The operations section of your business plan should describe what’s physically necessary for your business, as well as any partners who help keep things running smoothly.

This section contains four main categories:

  • Your stage of development. This should highlight what you’ve done to date to get the business operational, then follow up with an explanation of what still needs to be done.
  • The production process. This lays out the details of your day-to-day operations, manufacturing details, inventory, costs, outsourcing and more.
  • Getting products and services to customers. What is your supply chain and distribution strategy?
  • Partners and allies. Who are the people and organizations that support you? Who are key suppliers and vendors?

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Third-party groups may be able to help you in your journey. For example, Futurpreneur serves entrepreneurs age 18-39 who want access to business resources, financing and mentoring.

Detail Your Financing and Cash Flow Needs

Use this section to determine how strong your business is financially. Be realistic about expenses and projected income so you can properly assess your financial health early on and make sure you have enough cash for the first year.

  • Startup costs. What are your one-time and ongoing expenses? How will you cover the costs? Learn more with our factsheet: Deciding How Much Money You Need to Start or use our Startup Costs Calculator .
  • Profit margin and break-even point. How will you make a profit and calculate margins? What is your break-even point? Suggested reading: The Difference Between Cash Flow and Profit
  • Balance sheet. What assets, liabilities and capital do you have at this point in time?
  • Financing. What are your sources of financing —savings, loans, grants? What are your repayment terms, if any?
  • Cash flow forecast. What is your 12-month cash flow forecast? Estimate it now: Cash Flow Forecast Template

Describe Your Team (Even if It’s Just You)

This section should describe your current team as well as anyone you might need to hire to round out your company.

  • Skills and strengths. What skills do you and/or your team have that are critical to the business?
  • Management style and structure. How will you manage your team? Who will employees report to?

Identify Risks and How You’ll Protect Your Business

Every business comes with some risk, so it’s better to be prepared for them now rather than be surprised later. Use this section to explore potential risks and how you’ll protect your business.

  • Obstacles your business may face. How could the economy, your competition, supply chain or another circumstance affect your business? How do you plan to minimize and handle these and other risks?
  • How you’ll protect against losing market share (new competition). Do you have any agreements or vendors you’ll rely on?
  • How you’ll prevent critical data loss. Outline what you will do to reduce the impact of data loss, such as backing up all computer data regularly, using cloud providers, employee rules on installing software and other policies.
  • How you’ll protect intellectual assets. Will employees sign confidentiality agreements to protect processes, trade secrets and other intellectual property? See How Intellectual Property (IP) in Canada Works .
  • Compliance requirements. What rules, regulations and licenses will you need to comply with to operate?
  • Insurance needs. Does your industry require specific coverage, such as professional liability or other insurance?

Write a Conclusion

This is the last thing readers will see, so you want it to be strong. Use your conclusion to reinforce your goals and objectives. If you need financing, clearly state the amount you need and how it will be used. As with your executive summary, your conclusion should be succinct, clear and leave a positive impression.

Include Your Contact Information

Potential investors and lenders need to know how to reach you. Don’t forget to include your business name, contact information, website and social media presence in your plan.

Create Your Plan with the RBC Business Plan Template

This comprehensive template will guide you through a series of questions, resources and tips to help you write your plan. Best of all, you can go at your own pace and come back to work on it anytime.

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  • Understand your vision and business goals
  • Set up the right financial products and solutions
  • Explore options to effectively manage cash flow, pay employees and get paid
  • Connect you to a suite of business advice and solutions that go beyond traditional banking

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6 Tips for Creating a Great Business Marketing Plan

E very successful company needs a well-thought-out business plan to outline its course of action. A marketing strategy is one key part of that plan: It spells out critical information, including how a business will distinguish itself from competitors and what the team will aim to achieve.

While marketing plans don't always produce immediate results, they are still a crucial aspect of a business plan and should be given a considerate amount of attention. A complete and effective marketing strategy can reveal opportunities through new audience segments, changes in pricing strategy or by differentiating the brand from the competition.

Here's how to create an effective marketing plan for your business. 

How to develop a business marketing plan

A focused marketing plan sets two goals. The first is to maintain engagement and customer loyalty , and the second is to capture market share within a specific audience segment of your target audience.

Your marketing plan outlines the strategies you'll use to achieve both goals and the specific actions your marketing team will employ, such as the specific outreach campaigns, over which channels they will occur, the required marketing budget and data-driven projections of their success.

Marketing is a science-driven commitment that typically requires months of data to refine campaigns, and an interconnected marketing plan keeps your business committed to its long-term goals. 

All marketing guidelines will circle back to the four P's: product, price, place and promotion. The following tips are starting points that will ingrain the habit of continually returning to these four P's.

1. Create an executive summary.

Marketing campaigns should not be considered individual functions. Marketing is the story of your brand as told to customers; like any narrative, its tone and characters should remain consistent. An executive summary details your marketing goals for the next year and helps tie each campaign together. 

When establishing your marketing goals, they should be specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-bound – or SMART. These goals should work together to achieve both internal and external harmony, telling a consistent story that informs customers of your exact message while building on its previous chapters. 

For example, you may set a SMART goal to increase your company's social media traffic by 15% in a 90-day time frame, and plan to achieve this by creating four relevant, informative and high-quality posts per week on each platform, using your company's brand kit. 

2. Identify your target market.

Before you write a marketing plan, you need to find and understand your niche. Ask yourself who the specific demographic is that you're targeting. For example, if your business sells 30-minute meals, then those who work traditional 9-to-5 jobs are likely in your market. Study that group of individuals to understand their struggles and learn how your business can solve the problem.

FYI: Targeting your audience can drastically improve the effectiveness of your marketing efforts and help you avoid wasting resources on fruitless campaigns.

3. Differentiate your brand with inbound marketing.

Inbound marketing utilizes internal tools – such as content marketing, social media activity and search engine optimization (SEO) – to attract a customer's attention primarily through online communication. Content marketing can include informative blog posts, interviews, podcasts with relevant industry figures or supplementary guides on how to best use your product. For example, if you sell cooking supplies, consider posting several fun recipes around the holidays that your tools can help prepare.

Each of these strategies empowers the others in a loop to achieve greater customer attention. A strong content offering can improve your search engine ranking, which brings more people to your website and social pages. You can then share those developed content pieces to that wider audience, who will again improve your search engine rankings. All of this can be done without the expense of a famous endorser or commercial advertising campaign. 

4. Identify competitors that also target your customers.

No matter how original your product or service may be, there is always competition for your target customer's dollar. Small business personnel seldom take the time to study their competitors in-depth or pinpoint companies outside their industry that are just as capable of luring customers away. Knowing who your competitors are, their core competitive advantages, and how they might respond to your offerings – like price cuts or increased communication – helps you devise strategies to combat such losses. 

By seeking out these competitors, you can develop ways to differentiate your business by providing consumers with the things they may be lacking from your competition. Observe how your competitors operate to find ways in which you can stand out and steer your target audience toward your business. 

Did you know? According to SmallBizGenius, 19% of small businesses fail because of their competitors. 

5. State your brand position for your target customers.

Ultimately, your brand – and what it symbolizes for customers – is your strongest advantage. You should be able to write a simple declarative sentence of how you will meet customer needs and beat the competition. The best positioning statements focus on solving a problem for the customer in a way that promotes the best value.

6. Budget the plan. 

When implementing a strategy, consider the marketing budget you will allot. Marketing requires money for various reasons, including paid promotions, marketing software, events and outsourced costs. Consider your budget when creating the plan so that there is money available to spend on marketing tactics to achieve your goals. 

While drafting the plan and evaluating your course of action, note the estimated cost, assets, and time required to achieve the stated goals; this will help when it comes time to set the actual calculated budget. Any goals that you create should be realistically achievable within the budget you have set. 

Key takeaway: When developing your marketing plan, you should know why a customer would use your product, differentiate your brand from competitors, and audit your product offering and message to ensure consistency.

Channels to include in your marketing plan

Once you know the elements of your plan, the next step is to develop the blueprint of how you will reach your target customers. Aside from traditional print and broadcast media, here are three digital marketing channels that many business owners utilize.

Social media

Social media is an essential part of businesses' marketing plans, because every type of customer is on some type of platform – such as Facebook , Twitter or LinkedIn . You may feel overwhelmed at the possibilities, but focus on the sites that can benefit your business the most.

Brett Farmiloe, founder of internet marketing company Markitors, advised companies starting out in social media to get to know their customers and the platforms they use.

"Figure out where your customers are spending their time, and set up shop on those platforms," he told Business News Daily. "Develop a content strategy that can be executed internally, [and then] execute your strategy by posting branded content on your selected platforms."

Though email marketing is not as new as social media marketing, it is an effective and popular choice for small business owners. Companies can implement email marketing techniques in many ways, including newsletters, promotional campaigns and transactional emails. For instance, Mailchimp and Constant Contact help companies manage their email drip campaigns .

Farmiloe added to set your email marketing efforts apart from the others by segmenting your markets.

"Not all subscribers want to receive the same blast," he said. "Smart email marketers take the time to segment subscribers at the outset, and then continue to segment based on subscriber activity. Through segmentation, companies reduce the amount of unsubscribes, increase open rates and, most importantly, increase the amount of actions taken from an email send."

The popularity of smartphones and tablets has changed how companies target consumers. Since people have these devices with them nearly all the time, companies are looking to implement strategies that reach customers on their gadgets.   

"Mobile marketing is interruptive," Farmiloe said. "It's because of this power that a marketer has to let the consumer determine how and when to receive marketing material. That's why almost every app comes with the option to turn notifications on or off. The consumer has to hold the power with mobile marketing."

Key takeaway: Use digital marketing channels – such as social media, email and mobile – to reach customers, but only after researching each channel in depth and developing a strategy to capture consumers' interest. 

Monitoring results

Well-defined budgets, goals and action items – with appropriate personnel assigned to each – can make your marketing plan a reality. Think about how much you're willing to spend, the outcomes you expect and the necessary tasks to achieve those outcomes.

Analytical tools that track customer behavior and engagement rates can serve as a helpful guide for your marketing strategy . Unlike billboards or commercials, digital channels allow you to assess each step of the customer journey and gain insights on the individual patterns and intent of prospects. Intention can soon develop into prediction, empowering your marketing team to develop campaigns that consistently reach target audiences at the right time. 

You can find more tips for measuring your marketing ROI here.

Jordan Beier and Adryan Corcione contributed to the writing and reporting in this article. Source interviews were conducted for a previous version of this article.

Every successful company needs a well-thought-out business plan to outline its course of action. A marketing strategy is

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Delivering Copilot for everyone

Feb 7, 2024 | Yusuf Mehdi - Executive Vice President, Consumer Chief Marketing Officer

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Three screenshots of Microsoft Copilot

As we approach Super Bowl weekend, we’re thrilled to be a part of the festivities for the first time in four years. This year, we’re proud to celebrate the transformative power of AI and Microsoft Copilot, showcasing peoples’ “watch me” moments with Copilot enabling people to do things previously unattainable. With a simple sentence or two, you will see a budding entrepreneur turn a fledgling idea for a new product into an actionable business plan, a filmmaker’s concept into a rich set of storyboards, and a fantasy football player’s team come to life with a mascot image they can edit inline.

Coincident with the launch of our Super Bowl ad , we are also launching a significant new update to our Microsoft Copilot experience on copilot.microsoft.com and our Copilot app on iOS and Android app stores.  Today when you visit Copilot, you will see a more streamlined look and feel designed to help you bring your ideas to life and more easily gain understanding about the world. We have introduced a cleaner, sleeker look and feel for answers and a fun new carousel of suggested prompts to showcase the power of Copilot.

Today marks exactly one year since our entry into AI-powered experiences for people with Bing Chat. In that year we have learned so many new things and seen the use of our Copilot experiences explode with over 5 billion chats and 5 billion images created to date which have led to sustained growth in Edge and Bing share. Now with Copilot as our singular experience for people looking to get more out of AI creation, we are today introducing further image creation capabilities.

With Designer in Copilot, you can go beyond just creating images to now customize your generated images with inline editing right inside Copilot 1 , keeping you in the flow of your chat. Whether you want to highlight an object to make it pop with enhanced color, blur the background of your image to make your subject shine, or even reimagine your image with a different effect like pixel art, 2 Copilot has you covered, all for free.  If you’re a Copilot Pro subscriber, in addition to the above, you can also now easily resize and regenerate images between square and landscape without leaving chat. Lastly, we will soon roll out our new Designer GPT inside Copilot, which offers an immersive, dedicated canvas inside of Copilot where you can visualize your ideas.

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create new business plan

create new business plan

Create a form in Word that users can complete or print

In Word, you can create a form that others can fill out and save or print.  To do this, you will start with baseline content in a document, potentially via a form template.  Then you can add content controls for elements such as check boxes, text boxes, date pickers, and drop-down lists. Optionally, these content controls can be linked to database information.  Following are the recommended action steps in sequence.  

Show the Developer tab

In Word, be sure you have the Developer tab displayed in the ribbon.  (See how here:  Show the developer tab .)

Open a template or a blank document on which to base the form

You can start with a template or just start from scratch with a blank document.

Start with a form template

Go to File > New .

In the  Search for online templates  field, type  Forms or the kind of form you want. Then press Enter .

In the displayed results, right-click any item, then select  Create. 

Start with a blank document 

Select Blank document .

Add content to the form

Go to the  Developer  tab Controls section where you can choose controls to add to your document or form. Hover over any icon therein to see what control type it represents. The various control types are described below. You can set properties on a control once it has been inserted.

To delete a content control, right-click it, then select Remove content control  in the pop-up menu. 

Note:  You can print a form that was created via content controls. However, the boxes around the content controls will not print.

Insert a text control

The rich text content control enables users to format text (e.g., bold, italic) and type multiple paragraphs. To limit these capabilities, use the plain text content control . 

Click or tap where you want to insert the control.

Rich text control button

To learn about setting specific properties on these controls, see Set or change properties for content controls .

Insert a picture control

A picture control is most often used for templates, but you can also add a picture control to a form.

Picture control button

Insert a building block control

Use a building block control  when you want users to choose a specific block of text. These are helpful when you need to add different boilerplate text depending on the document's specific purpose. You can create rich text content controls for each version of the boilerplate text, and then use a building block control as the container for the rich text content controls.

building block gallery control

Select Developer and content controls for the building block.

Developer tab showing content controls

Insert a combo box or a drop-down list

In a combo box, users can select from a list of choices that you provide or they can type in their own information. In a drop-down list, users can only select from the list of choices.

combo box button

Select the content control, and then select Properties .

To create a list of choices, select Add under Drop-Down List Properties .

Type a choice in Display Name , such as Yes , No , or Maybe .

Repeat this step until all of the choices are in the drop-down list.

Fill in any other properties that you want.

Note:  If you select the Contents cannot be edited check box, users won’t be able to click a choice.

Insert a date picker

Click or tap where you want to insert the date picker control.

Date picker button

Insert a check box

Click or tap where you want to insert the check box control.

Check box button

Use the legacy form controls

Legacy form controls are for compatibility with older versions of Word and consist of legacy form and Active X controls.

Click or tap where you want to insert a legacy control.

Legacy control button

Select the Legacy Form control or Active X Control that you want to include.

Set or change properties for content controls

Each content control has properties that you can set or change. For example, the Date Picker control offers options for the format you want to use to display the date.

Select the content control that you want to change.

Go to Developer > Properties .

Controls Properties  button

Change the properties that you want.

Add protection to a form

If you want to limit how much others can edit or format a form, use the Restrict Editing command:

Open the form that you want to lock or protect.

Select Developer > Restrict Editing .

Restrict editing button

After selecting restrictions, select Yes, Start Enforcing Protection .

Restrict editing panel

Advanced Tip:

If you want to protect only parts of the document, separate the document into sections and only protect the sections you want.

To do this, choose Select Sections in the Restrict Editing panel. For more info on sections, see Insert a section break .

Sections selector on Resrict sections panel

If the developer tab isn't displayed in the ribbon, see Show the Developer tab .

Open a template or use a blank document

To create a form in Word that others can fill out, start with a template or document and add content controls. Content controls include things like check boxes, text boxes, and drop-down lists. If you’re familiar with databases, these content controls can even be linked to data.

Go to File > New from Template .

New from template option

In Search, type form .

Double-click the template you want to use.

Select File > Save As , and pick a location to save the form.

In Save As , type a file name and then select Save .

Start with a blank document

Go to File > New Document .

New document option

Go to File > Save As .

Go to Developer , and then choose the controls that you want to add to the document or form. To remove a content control, select the control and press Delete. You can set Options on controls once inserted. From Options, you can add entry and exit macros to run when users interact with the controls, as well as list items for combo boxes, .

Adding content controls to your form

In the document, click or tap where you want to add a content control.

On Developer , select Text Box , Check Box , or Combo Box .

Developer tab with content controls

To set specific properties for the control, select Options , and set .

Repeat steps 1 through 3 for each control that you want to add.

Set options

Options let you set common settings, as well as control specific settings. Select a control and then select Options to set up or make changes.

Set common properties.

Select Macro to Run on lets you choose a recorded or custom macro to run on Entry or Exit from the field.

Bookmark Set a unique name or bookmark for each control.

Calculate on exit This forces Word to run or refresh any calculations, such as total price when the user exits the field.

Add Help Text Give hints or instructions for each field.

OK Saves settings and exits the panel.

Cancel Forgets changes and exits the panel.

Set specific properties for a Text box

Type Select form Regular text, Number, Date, Current Date, Current Time, or Calculation.

Default text sets optional instructional text that's displayed in the text box before the user types in the field. Set Text box enabled to allow the user to enter text into the field.

Maximum length sets the length of text that a user can enter. The default is Unlimited .

Text format can set whether text automatically formats to Uppercase , Lowercase , First capital, or Title case .

Text box enabled Lets the user enter text into a field. If there is default text, user text replaces it.

Set specific properties for a Check box .

Default Value Choose between Not checked or checked as default.

Checkbox size Set a size Exactly or Auto to change size as needed.

Check box enabled Lets the user check or clear the text box.

Set specific properties for a Combo box

Drop-down item Type in strings for the list box items. Press + or Enter to add an item to the list.

Items in drop-down list Shows your current list. Select an item and use the up or down arrows to change the order, Press - to remove a selected item.

Drop-down enabled Lets the user open the combo box and make selections.

Protect the form

Go to Developer > Protect Form .

Protect form button on the Developer tab

Note:  To unprotect the form and continue editing, select Protect Form again.

Save and close the form.

Test the form (optional)

If you want, you can test the form before you distribute it.

Protect the form.

Reopen the form, fill it out as the user would, and then save a copy.

Creating fillable forms isn’t available in Word for the web.

You can create the form with the desktop version of Word with the instructions in Create a fillable form .

When you save the document and reopen it in Word for the web, you’ll see the changes you made.

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