Latest news with #BeyondFinance
Yahoo
18-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
30-Year-Old Says Her Boyfriend Thinks 401(k)s Are a 'Scam' — Dave Ramsey Warns: 'You Don't Want to Be Married to That Guy 25 Years From Now'
If you've ever been confused by 401(k)s, you're not alone. A 2024 poll by Beyond Finance found nearly 43% of Americans don't even know what a 401(k) is. But one caller to "The Dave Ramsey Show" wasn't just dealing with confusion — she was dating someone who called the whole thing a scam. The 30-year-old woman phoned in to get advice about her boyfriend, a 32-year-old recent U.S. citizen originally from Albania. She explained she's a dedicated saver with a 401(k) and a Roth IRA — but when she brought up retirement planning to her boyfriend, his response stopped her cold. "All that matters is working and making money now," she recalled him saying, before adding: "401(k)s are a scam." Don't Miss: Deloitte's fastest-growing software company partners with Amazon, Walmart & Target – The average American couple has saved this much money for retirement —? That's when Dave Ramsey jumped in. "What he's saying is basically, 'I'm immature and I don't want to think about the future,'" he said. Co-host Ken Coleman agreed, calling it a fear-based reaction that might stem from growing up hand-to-mouth in an unstable environment. "But it's still a broken, stupid, and immature viewpoint," Ramsey added. "Regardless of how he got there." And Ramsey didn't stop there. "You get to live with someone who's going to do no planning for the future — which guarantees your future sucks," he warned. "That has to be solved relationally. You either walk him out of that... or walk away from him." Trending: Nancy Pelosi Invested $5 Million In An AI Company Last Year — Coleman jumped in with a gentler angle, comparing the boyfriend's resistance to learning to ride a bike. "He's scared, and he doesn't understand it. You don't throw him into the Tour de France," he said. "You put training wheels on. You walk beside him. But you've got to teach it if this relationship is going to be permanent." Ramsey, though, brought it back to culture shock — and hard reality. "I hate banks," he said bluntly. "But the idea that your money isn't safe in a U.S. bank? That's absurd." He compared it to people from Latin American countries who, after growing up around unstable banks, distrust the U.S. system. "That's not marriage material," he said. "You're marrying someone who hasn't adapted to the culture they live in." He didn't glamorize the future either. "I meet 57-year-old Americans who have no vision, who drank their future on Friday nights and now gripe that opportunity passed them by. You don't want to be married to that guy 25 years from now."And then came the classic Ramsey finale: "I'll be your old ugly Uncle Dave and say: don't marry this guy. He ain't worth it." Despite the skepticism, 401(k)s remain one of the most common and effective retirement tools available to American workers. These employer-sponsored plans allow individuals to invest pre-tax income, often with a company match, into diversified funds that grow over time. While they're not perfect — and no investment is without risk — 401(k)s are backed by federal regulations and protected under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act. For anyone hoping to retire with more than just regrets, the real scam may be ignoring them altogether. Read Next: Hasbro, MGM, and Skechers trust this AI marketing firm — 'Scrolling To UBI' — Deloitte's #1 fastest-growing software company allows users to earn money on their phones. Image: Shutterstock UNLOCKED: 5 NEW TRADES EVERY WEEK. Click now to get top trade ideas daily, plus unlimited access to cutting-edge tools and strategies to gain an edge in the markets. Get the latest stock analysis from Benzinga? APPLE (AAPL): Free Stock Analysis Report TESLA (TSLA): Free Stock Analysis Report This article 30-Year-Old Says Her Boyfriend Thinks 401(k)s Are a 'Scam' — Dave Ramsey Warns: 'You Don't Want to Be Married to That Guy 25 Years From Now' originally appeared on © 2025 Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
08-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Beyond Finance Wins Gold Stevie® Award for Customer Service Department of the Year in 23rd Annual American Business Awards
Recognition highlights Beyond Finance's empathetic support model and measurable impact on clients' financial wellness CHICAGO, May 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Beyond Finance, one of the nation's largest debt consolidation organizations, has been named winner of the Gold Stevie® Award for Customer Service Department of the Year in the 23rd Annual American Business Awards®. The honor recognizes Beyond Finance's innovative and empathetic approach to supporting clients on the journey to achieve financial freedom. Beyond Finance was honored for delivering an exceptional customer experience, led by a 300+ member Client Success Team that provides 24/7 support to clients paying off debt. Many Beyond Finance team members are former or current clients themselves, allowing them to create deep connections in every interaction. In 2024, the company also introduced specialized empathy training for its team members, logging more than 500 collective hours in its first year. "Debt is more than a financial issue. It carries emotional weight that demands human understanding," said Lou Antonelli, Chief Operating Officer at Beyond Finance. "Our team members lead with compassion guided by personal experience, professional training, and an unwavering commitment to helping empower clients throughout their journeys. This award is a powerful validation of that work." The Stevie Awards judges highlighted Beyond Finance's strong results in client satisfaction and long-term financial improvement. When surveyed, graduating clients rate their financial habits at an average of 5.9 before working with Beyond Finance, to 8.2 after graduating. Additionally, Beyond Finance maintains a Net Promoter Score of 80, up 10 points since 2023. This widely used metric measures customer loyalty and satisfaction by asking how likely customers are to recommend the company to others. "The Client Success Team is at the heart of what makes Beyond Finance's approach to debt consolidation both unique and effective," said Vanessa Hering, EVP of Strategy and Operations. "Our team meets clients where they are with the goal of resolving questions on first contact. Every conversation is a chance to build trust and move our clients' goals forward." Beyond Finance's approach includes integrated support from accredited financial therapists who lead weekly financial wellness webinars. To learn more about the American Business Awards and view the full list of winners, visit: Customer Service Awards | Stevie Awards. To learn more about Beyond Finance and how it supports clients on their journeys to financial freedom, visit Beyond Finance, LLC, is one of the nation's largest debt consolidation organizations. In its commitment to providing clients a smart way to move beyond debt, Beyond Finance helps consumers lower their monthly payments, reduce the impact of interest, and reach a debt-free life sooner — all with customized proprietary tools allowing for ease-of-use and transparency. In 2024, Beyond Finance was awarded with 3 ConsumerAffairs' inaugural "Buyer's Choice Awards" for Best Customer Service, Experience with Staff, and Transparency within its category. Beyond Finance has offices in Chicago, Atlanta, San Diego, and Houston. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Beyond Finance Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
29-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
How to Protect Your Retirement Savings -- Even if Trump's Tariffs Threaten to Drain Them
A recent survey commissioned by the financial services company Beyond Finance asked 2,000 Americans how they feel about their finances. Only 13% said they feel "very good," while another 28% reported feeling "somewhat good." That leaves 59% feeling not so great. That sentiment isn't surprising, given the financial uncertainties created by President Donald Trump's on-again, off-again tariffs. It's difficult (even for the experts) to know what to expect next -- and the stock market certainly does not like uncertainty. Where to invest $1,000 right now? Our analyst team just revealed what they believe are the 10 best stocks to buy right now. Continue » Whether you're just starting out in your career and your retirement savings are modest or you've been financially prepared for retirement for years, history has taught investors ways to protect their nest egg (regardless of its size). Here are three suggestions on how to navigate the recent financial turbulence. If you're not yet retired, experts suggest saving enough in an emergency fund to cover three to six months' worth of bills. For example, if your monthly bills total $3,000, aim for $9,000 to $18,000 in easily accessible savings (in a high-yield savings account or short-term CD) to cover you if you experience a job loss, an unexpected medical event, or other "surprise" expense. If saving enough to cover your bills for three to six months seems achievable, you may want to consider saving even more. Once you've met the six-month goal, aim for nine months. If you're retired, you know how much an unpredictable market can rain on your parade. As storm clouds approach, there's nothing better than having cash set aside for living expenses. Not only does cash provide an emotional cushion, but having enough put away to replace two years' worth of investment withdrawals also means not having to dip into your retirement funds to pay everyday expenses. Imagine you're retired and receive a pension or Social Security benefits. You also draw $3,000 per month from a retirement account to cover the rest of your bills and give you spending money. A good goal would be to have $72,000 in an interest-bearing savings account or in multiple staggered short-term CD accounts that you can easily access as needed ($3,000 x 24 months = $72,000). A cash reserve allows you to leave money in your retirement account when values are low. While a dropping stock market can feel scary, it's when values are low that the best investments can be picked up at a bargain price. Then, as the market recovers, your portfolio is in a position to come back stronger than ever. There's no denying current market volatility as the market keeps its ear to the ground, waiting for the next step in what seems to be a developing tariff war. While the S&P 500 is more volatile over the past few months, it hasn't hit bear market territory for long enough to qualify just yet (it's currently off about 10% from recent highs). Still, it did get dangerously close. The market is down largely on investor (and expert) concerns that the tariff war will lead to a recession as soon as later this year. One way to manage your spending during this tariff uncertainty is to start making decisions now as if you were in the middle of a recession. For example, if you have been putting money away for a nice vacation, consider postponing it until the economy is less uncertain. Or, shorten it by a couple of days and put the savings in your emergency fund. If you're ready to schedule a home renovation project or buy a new vehicle, consider whether those significant purchases can be put off for now. As discouraging as it can be to postpone something you've been looking forward to, keep in mind that the average recession lasts around 10 months. The next recession may be a bit longer or shorter, but the point is, it won't last forever. Nothing says you have to go into full lockdown mode and climb into an "economic" bomb shelter, but do watch your money closer than you otherwise might. Granted, this point may seem to contradict the previous one, but once it becomes clear that tariffs will take effect, the smart move may be to make necessary purchases that will definitely be affected by tariffs before the tariffs go into effect. Let's say your refrigerator has been making some weird noises in the past year, you know efforts to repair it won't be worthwhile, and you're fairly certain it's nearing the end of its life. You've been casually looking at new models, but haven't made the purchase yet. Given the tariffs on steel and aluminum already in effect, appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines are expected to see a price increase of nearly 20%. If the refrigerator you want was priced around $1,500, you can expect to pay closer to $1,800 very soon on new fridges being made now. But the ones already in the stores were likely there before the tariffs went into effect. However, it's not just appliances. Depending on where the president lands on tariffs against China, the cost of a laptop is predicted to rise by 46%, smartphones by 26%, and video game consoles by 40%. Although the picture is not yet entirely clear, experts believe the country will also experience price increases on clothing, shoes, food, tech, toys, wine, coffee, and cars. Products already here might not be affected, but new ones being shipped here now definitely will. No one can claim to know the future, but we can look to history for an idea of what to expect. In 1930, the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act led to retaliatory measures from trading partners. By 1933, U.S. exports had dropped 61%, significantly adding to the pain of the Great Depression. And as recently as 2002, a steel tariff led to European countermeasures against American exports, resulting in job losses across a wide range of industries that relied on steel. While President Trump's tariff war may not end so dramatically or lead to such dire consequences, it's important to acknowledge that tariffs are already resulting in higher prices for U.S. consumers. According to the Tax Foundation, a think tank that publishes research on American tax policies, tariffs will likely result in a tax increase of $1,243 for the average U.S. household. If there's nothing that requires replacement (like a dying refrigerator), go into preservation mode by treating the current economic situation as if it were a recession. If you must replace something, consider making the move before tariffs lead to higher prices, and then move into preservation mode. It's all about getting through all this "will they or won't they" tariff drama with your finances intact. If you're like most Americans, you're a few years (or more) behind on your retirement savings. But a handful of little-known could help ensure a boost in your retirement income. One easy trick could pay you as much as $22,924 more... each year! Once you learn how to maximize your Social Security benefits, we think you could retire confidently with the peace of mind we're all after. Join Stock Advisor to learn more about these Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. How to Protect Your Retirement Savings -- Even if Trump's Tariffs Threaten to Drain Them was originally published by The Motley Fool Sign in to access your portfolio
Malaysian Reserve
23-04-2025
- Business
- Malaysian Reserve
Beyond Finance Honored with 2025 Customer Service Organization of the Year Award from Business Intelligence Group
Award-winning client experience: Beyond Finance graduates report an improvement in their financial habits, increasing from an average score of 5.8/10 to 8.0/10 CHICAGO, April 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Beyond Finance, one of the nation's largest debt consolidation organizations, has been named a winner of the 2025 Excellence in Customer Service Awards, presented by Business Intelligence Group. This recognition celebrates the company's dedication to transforming clients' lives and financial futures by delivering an exceptional customer experience. Beyond Finance, honored as an Organization of the Year, takes a holistic approach to helping clients say goodbye to their debt. Known for its results-driven client journey and human-first philosophy, Beyond's Client Success Team offers personalized, 24/7 support and financial wellness programs that include no-cost financial therapy sessions with accredited financial therapists that allow clients to feel empowered even after graduating from Beyond Finance's service. 'Beyond Finance was founded with the simple mission to help those struggling with overwhelming debt find a pathway to financial freedom. While many companies focus solely on debt consolidation, our team prioritizes a hands-on, compassionate approach, coupled with a focus on mental health and long-term financial well-being,' said Lou Antonelli, Chief Operating Officer at Beyond Finance. 'Providing excellent client service throughout the process is critical to us, and we are proud to accept this award in recognition of our team's efforts.' The Excellence in Customer Service Awards recognize companies and teams that are elevating how businesses connect with their customers. Unlike other industry award programs, these programs are judged by a panel of leaders across industries who evaluate entries based on innovation, impact and results. 'The Client Success Team is an integral part of our customer journey. They go above and beyond to provide empathetic, solutions-focused support to our clients,' said Vanessa Hering, EVP Strategy and Operations. 'Our customer success team is dedicated to partnering with clients every step of the way, offering 24/7 support and best in class service, leading with empathy and understanding. This instills trust and empowers clients to achieve their finance goals and a debt free future.' To learn more about the Business Intelligence Group's Awards and access the full list of award recipients, please visit: From Good to Great: These Organizations Are Defining the Future of Customer Service | News | Business Intelligence Group. To learn more about Beyond Finance and how it supports clients on their journey to financial freedom, visit About Beyond Finance, LLCBeyond Finance, LLC, is one of the nation's largest debt consolidation organizations. In its commitment to providing clients a smart way to move beyond debt, Beyond Finance helps consumers lower their monthly payments, reduce the impact of interest, and reach a debt-free* life sooner — all with customized proprietary tools allowing for ease-of-use and transparency. In 2024, Beyond Finance was awarded with 3 ConsumerAffairs' inaugural 'Buyer's Choice Awards' for Best Customer Service, Experience with Staff, and Transparency within its category. Beyond Finance has offices in Chicago, Atlanta, San Diego, and Houston. For more information, visit About Business Intelligence GroupThe Business Intelligence Group was founded with the mission of recognizing true talent and superior performance in the business world. Unlike other industry award programs, these programs are judged by business executives with relevant experience and insight. The organization's proprietary scoring system uniquely measures performance across multiple business domains and rewards those companies whose achievements stand above their peers.
Yahoo
23-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Beyond Finance Honored with 2025 Customer Service Organization of the Year Award from Business Intelligence Group
Award-winning client experience: Beyond Finance graduates report an improvement in their financial habits, increasing from an average score of 5.8/10 to 8.0/10 CHICAGO, April 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Beyond Finance, one of the nation's largest debt consolidation organizations, has been named a winner of the 2025 Excellence in Customer Service Awards, presented by Business Intelligence Group. This recognition celebrates the company's dedication to transforming clients' lives and financial futures by delivering an exceptional customer experience. Beyond Finance, honored as an Organization of the Year, takes a holistic approach to helping clients say goodbye to their debt. Known for its results-driven client journey and human-first philosophy, Beyond's Client Success Team offers personalized, 24/7 support and financial wellness programs that include no-cost financial therapy sessions with accredited financial therapists that allow clients to feel empowered even after graduating from Beyond Finance's service. "Beyond Finance was founded with the simple mission to help those struggling with overwhelming debt find a pathway to financial freedom. While many companies focus solely on debt consolidation, our team prioritizes a hands-on, compassionate approach, coupled with a focus on mental health and long-term financial well-being," said Lou Antonelli, Chief Operating Officer at Beyond Finance. "Providing excellent client service throughout the process is critical to us, and we are proud to accept this award in recognition of our team's efforts." The Excellence in Customer Service Awards recognize companies and teams that are elevating how businesses connect with their customers. Unlike other industry award programs, these programs are judged by a panel of leaders across industries who evaluate entries based on innovation, impact and results. "The Client Success Team is an integral part of our customer journey. They go above and beyond to provide empathetic, solutions-focused support to our clients," said Vanessa Hering, EVP Strategy and Operations. "Our customer success team is dedicated to partnering with clients every step of the way, offering 24/7 support and best in class service, leading with empathy and understanding. This instills trust and empowers clients to achieve their finance goals and a debt free future." To learn more about the Business Intelligence Group's Awards and access the full list of award recipients, please visit: From Good to Great: These Organizations Are Defining the Future of Customer Service | News | Business Intelligence Group. To learn more about Beyond Finance and how it supports clients on their journey to financial freedom, visit About Beyond Finance, LLCBeyond Finance, LLC, is one of the nation's largest debt consolidation organizations. In its commitment to providing clients a smart way to move beyond debt, Beyond Finance helps consumers lower their monthly payments, reduce the impact of interest, and reach a debt-free* life sooner — all with customized proprietary tools allowing for ease-of-use and transparency. In 2024, Beyond Finance was awarded with 3 ConsumerAffairs' inaugural "Buyer's Choice Awards" for Best Customer Service, Experience with Staff, and Transparency within its category. Beyond Finance has offices in Chicago, Atlanta, San Diego, and Houston. For more information, visit About Business Intelligence GroupThe Business Intelligence Group was founded with the mission of recognizing true talent and superior performance in the business world. Unlike other industry award programs, these programs are judged by business executives with relevant experience and insight. The organization's proprietary scoring system uniquely measures performance across multiple business domains and rewards those companies whose achievements stand above their peers. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Beyond Finance Sign in to access your portfolio
