In the rush of filing taxes, it can be easy to overlook deductions that could help you save money. Tax deductions are expenses you can subtract from your taxable income. Knowing which expenses can be claimed as deductions is the key to limiting the hard-earned money you owe the government. From student loan interest payments to health expenses, here are some of the most overlooked tax deductions you should know: How do deductions work? Tax deductions lower the amount of tax you owe. A standard tax deduction—a single deduction of a fixed amount—is determined by your filing status: single, married, head of household, or filing jointly. You can claim the standard deduction without providing additional documentation or expense receipts. In contrast, itemized deductions are specific expenses you can deduct from your taxable income, such as clinical expenses, charitable contributions, and mortgage interest. Most overlooked tax deductions Job hunting expenses If you are looking for a new job in your existing field, you may be able to deduct expenses such as those incurred in resume preparation, traveling for interviews, and career counseling services. Charitable contributions Many know that cash donations to charity can be claimed as deductions but often overlook non-cash contributions like clothing or household items. Clinical and dental expenses You can deduct expenses that exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income for clinical and dental care. Moving expenses If you move for a new job, you may be able to deduct expenses such as transportation and lodging from the tax amount. Student loan interest If you are paying interest on a student loan, you can claim a deduction of up to $2,500. Tax preparation fees Taxpayers can deduct fees paid to tax professionals, tax software charges, and other tax-related expenses. Sponsoring a child The money you give an organization supporting underprivileged children can be tax deductible.

With a migraine, anything one eats can be a trigger. But that does not mean that one needs to skip out on desserts and other foods they enjoy. Swapping out certain ingredients can help create a migraine-friendly meal plan and boost one’s health. Gluten and sugar, the main ingredients in most desserts, are also the biggest triggers for people with migraine. Try these five updated dessert recipes to continue enjoying one’s favorite foods even with a migraine: Carrot muffins Made with migraine-friendly ingredients like carrots, gluten-free flour, and cinnamon, carrot muffins are loaded with magnesium and antioxidants to help keep migraine headaches under control, making them a great dessert or snack option. “Chocolate” pudding For many people, the phenylethylamine in chocolate has been linked to migraine headaches. Try switching cocoa with carob powder and sweetening it with dates to create a chocolate-free “chocolate” pudding that tastes like the real deal. Using cooked millet instead of flour gives this dessert an added dose of magnesium. Almond-orange cake with cream cheese frosting Prepare a delicious almond-orange cake with almond flour, oranges, and eggs. It comes together quickly and is a delicious gluten-free low-carb option for migraine sufferers. Frost it with cream cheese to give it a birthday cake that looks perfect for any party. Not-ella Carob Butter This simple 5-ingredient recipe only calls for toasted sunflower seeds, hemp seeds, stevia, carob powder, and coconut oil. It is ideal for people missing out on name-brand chocolate spreads and can be paired with fruit for a quick, healthy, and migraine-friendly dessert. Strawberries and cream pop Are you missing ice cream? Here’s the perfect hack! Use a freezer pop maker to make some at home using coconut milk, strawberries, natural stevia, and vanilla extract. These candy pops are low in sugar and rich in antioxidants from berries and healthy fats from coconut oil.

Heart health is important for living a long, fulfilling life. With so many options of processed foods available in the market, it is crucial to make wise choices and add fresh and preservative-free produce to one’s daily meal plans. Moreover, there are some foods that should especially be added to one’s meals every week to keep their heart healthy. Here are the top four foods that could save one’s heart. Black beans These are not only protein-rich foods but also packed with folate, antioxidants, and magnesium. These are all heart-healthy nutrients that help keep blood pressure in check. Other nutrients to look for include fiber, which is not just great for the gut but also helps control cholesterol and blood sugar levels in the body. This can be an easy addition to curries or salads. However, it is important to wash the beans if one is using a canned product, as it has too much salt as a preservative. Moreover, one can always make their own black beans by soaking them overnight and boiling them the morning after. Salmon A great source of omega-3 fatty acids, this fish is known to be a superfood when it comes to heart-healthy meals. The omega 3s are known to be healthy fats that decrease the risk of heart rhythm disorders. These nutrients also help in lowering blood pressure, which keeps the heart healthy. Other benefits of salmon include reducing inflammation and lowering triglycerides. One of the easiest ways to include salmon in one’s meals is to simply bake it with some herbs and vegetables and eat it with rice or add it to salads. Olive oil Talking about healthy fats, olive oil is another good source. This oil has heart-healthy antioxidants that may help in protecting the blood vessels. It is usually recommended to replace saturated fats with healthy fats like olive oil to help control cholesterol levels in the blood.

The end of a woman’s menstrual cycle, known as menopause, typically occurs in the late 40s or 50s. It is a natural biological process that marks the end of the reproductive years and is typically diagnosed when a woman has gone through 12 consecutive months without having a menstrual period. Women may experience various uncomfortable signs and symptoms leading up to this period, making daily activities challenging. Here are some indications of menopause. Anxiety The menopause period brings a lot of hormonal changes that can have physical and psychological effects. Commonly experienced feelings include stress, anxiety, and depression. Seeking the help of a therapist is usually recommended to manage these emotional changes. Additionally, joining a support group can benefit those going through these changes. Difficulty sleeping It can be challenging for women experiencing menopause symptoms, especially when getting enough sleep. Insomnia is a significant concern for many women due to the various symptoms they may be experiencing, such as anxiety, hot flashes, and night sweats. While treatments are available to help with sleep, it’s important to note that these symptoms can persist for years and won’t go away quickly. Seeking guidance from a healthcare professional can help manage these symptoms. Hot flashes It can be frustrating and uncomfortable to experience sudden changes in body temperature, especially during menopause. Hot flashes are a common symptom that can occur at any time of day or night, leading to night sweats and feelings of anxiety. These hot flashes often affect the neck, face, and chest and can cause the skin to become red and sweaty. Heavy menstrual bleeding The transition to menopause, known as perimenopause, can bring about a range of symptoms and changes in a woman’s body. While not all women will experience the same symptoms, the intensity and duration of these symptoms can vary widely.

Technological advancements have enabled access to therapy from the comfort of home. So, psychiatrists can provide their services via virtual sessions. Online psychiatry services are especially beneficial for those who may not be able to visit a mental health professional in person or those who can not find suitable therapists nearby. Today, several online platforms facilitate psychiatric consultations. To make choosing a provider easier, here are some of the best platforms one can consider: 1. Teladoc Teladoc is among the most reputed online platforms for accessing therapy and psychiatric consultation. One of the platform’s key features is the option to choose a therapist or psychiatrist. One can see if they are comfortable with their choice and then continue to consult the same therapist for all sessions or choose a different one. This platform is accessible through both website and mobile application. So, users can attend therapy sessions via video chats on the electronic device of their choice. Another great feature of this platform is its pay-per-session model instead of a fixed subscription model. So, one can schedule and skip sessions if necessary. 2. Talkspace Talkspace is another great platform for online therapy and psychiatrist consultation. It offers a different approach when it comes to choosing a therapist. The platform asks users to take an assessment based on which they are matched with the most suitable psychiatrist. If one wishes to switch their provider, they can do that for no additional cost. A great thing about Talkspace is that, along with live video consultations, it offers call and text consultations at a lower price. 3. Brightside Brightside is another common online service provider that offers psychotherapy and psychiatric consultations. This platform also offers consultations via live video chats and instant messaging, so one can text their therapist at any time. This is a subscription based service that charges users on a monthly basis.

When it comes to air quality, there cannot be any compromises. This is why it is important to figure out what type of air filter matches your needs perfectly. This can be done by understanding the various types of air filters and how much each costs. You can always cut down on costs by shopping online and using air filter coupons. But first, let’s take a look at the different types of air filters. HEPA filters High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are the most reliable and effective ones among the lot. They filter out 99.97 percent of dust, mold, and other particulate matter from the air. They are the best option for people dealing with respiratory disorders. However, you may need a professional to install the filter. HEPA filters cost anywhere from $10 to $75, depending on the size and quality of the product. UV filters As the name suggests, these filters use ultraviolet light to destroy any germs, viruses, or bacteria in the air. However, they are not quite effective in keeping out dust particles and allergens. Therefore, they are often used in combination with another filter. They cost anywhere between $60 to $225. They can be hazardous to the human body in the long run. Washable filters Washable filters are environment-friendly and can help you save a few bucks. This is because they last for a long time, are easy to maintain, and can be easily installed at home. They have to be washed once every few months and dried before being installed back into the machine. They cost anywhere from $30 to $60 or higher, but are a great investment as they are long-lasting and efficient. Spun glass filters Spun glass filters are commonly used for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. They are cost-effective and are great at filtering out dust and debris.

Picking the right pair of running shoes is the first and most important step for an everyday jogger. It can protect your feet and legs from injury and even elevate your running experience. So, if you’ve been wondering how to purchase the right pair of running shoes for your feet, here are some tips that can help: Choose a pair that’s designed for running Running shoes often look like sneakers but are far superior. Running shoes are designed to prevent damage to the knees and ankle. Special cushioning and added foam help with shock absorption. So, when you’re buying running shoes, keep in mind to steer clear of sneakers or comfort wear. Note that there are also three different types of running shoes available: everyday running shoes that are the most durable; lightweight running shoes that are suited for workouts; and trail running shoes that are suited for muddy, rocky trails. The right fit matters Aside from picking the right type of running shoes, you need to get a well-fitting pair. Wearing ill-fitted running shoes can put you at risk of extreme pain and injury. To make sure you pick the right size, try going shopping at the end of the day. This is because your feet can swell throughout the day, so trying out shoes in the afternoon or evening can help you get a more accurate fit. Keep in mind that you do not want your feet to be pinched in your shoes, so, try leaving a distance (approximately your thumbs width) between your toes and the end of the shoe. Also note that most shoe sizes accommodate length and not width, so make sure your shoes fit you well both ways. Going out of budget is worth the money Consider splurging a little more than usual and get the pair of running shoes you normally wouldn’t bother looking at.

One cannot stress the importance of reliability when it comes to buying an SUV or any used car, for that matter. The automobile might get you the best mileage, looks, features, and performance. But it can get annoying if the vehicle breaks down regularly or needs you to shell out more on repairs than the amount spent on purchasing the SUV. So if you’re shopping for your first used SUV or upgrading to one, here are five reliable options to consider. GMC Terrain The GMC Terrain is one of the most reliable SUVs when it comes to buying a used model. It comes with premium interiors and seating that can carry five people from one destination to the next comfortably. The ride quality of the GMC Terrain is smooth and packs an efficient engine. Customers should be able to purchase a pre-owned model between $19,000 and $28,000. Toyota Highlander The Toyota Highlander is a reliable SUV that is suitable for families. The vehicle is flush with technological features, high-quality interiors, and a powerful standard V6 engine. The Highlander is also awarded a five-star overall safety rating by the NHTSA. Customers can get a pre-owned Toyota highlander starting at $40,000 based on the model they pick. Honda CR-V A used Honda CR-V is usually available starting at $18,000 based on the features and accessories a buyer selects. The SUV is one of the most reliable compact SUVs, with more than sufficient room for passengers, an upscaled cabin, and a massive cargo hold. The CR-V is also known for its safety score and fuel economy. Buick Encore The subcompact SUV is one of the more affordable options for customers who do not want to stretch their budget. The Buick Encore is known for its premium interior, safety ratings, entertainment, and infotainment system.

There is so much advice floating around us when it comes to skincare. From online trends to old lores, it is important to filter this information and create a skincare routine that will get you closer to achieving your skin goals. However, while searching for the right products and foods, several bad habits can wreak havoc on your skin and slow down your progress. Here are five skincare habits that can worsen skin health: Not wearing sunscreen around the year Many of us assume that the sun isn’t bright or visible enough to affect our skin during the winter months. But, the sun’s UV rays still percolate to the ground and can affect your skin. To prevent photodamage from this exposure, wearing sunscreen all year round is important. Not removing your makeup before bed Washing your face before going to bed is one of the most important steps in your skincare routine. Throughout the day, your skin is exposed to several things, such as makeup, dust, dirt, and grime. Washing your face at the end of the day will help you remove these from the surface of your skin so they do not clog your pores and lead to more breakouts. Exfoliating too much Exfoliating once in a while can help remove dead skin cells and impurities from the skin. However, engaging in this practice too often can strip the skin of its essential oils and cause frequent acne flares. Using comedogenic products Some makeup, skincare, and haircare products contain oils that can clog pores and lead to breakouts. When shopping, look for products labeled ‘non-comedogenic’ or ‘won’t clog pores,’ as they can help you avoid breakouts. Additionally, do not share your makeup applicators or brushes with others, as cross-contamination can also lead to clogged pores and breakouts. Drying your skin too much Sometimes, you may feel tempted to dry your skin using products for oily skin or astringents to avoid breakouts.

Public Wi-Fi spots are free to use and available across the country. So you can easily connect and enjoy seamless browsing on the go. However, these connections are not completely secured and can easily be hacked by scammers and phishing sites. But you can ensure your browsing experience is safe and not vulnerable to online attacks in a few ways. Here are a few tips to secure your computer while accessing public Wi-Fi hotspots: Pick a secure network Don’t just click on the first Wi-Fi hotspot that shows up in the phone menu. Pick the correct network name if it’s at a coffee shop, as scammers and hackers duplicate these names. However, you should be able to spot the spelling mistakes in these decoy networks and avoid opening such links at all costs. Ask for the official Wi-Fi names at these places, and only then connect to a secure encryption network. Use a VPN A Virtual Provider Network (VPN) connection is one of the best ways to prevent hackers and scammers from publicly accessing your computer’s IP. A VPN is software that masks the real IP address of the computer connected to a public network by rerouting the connection to a private server. So, the real address is not visible as long as the VPN is active. Most premium VPNs provide access to servers across the globe. Configure device settings Laptops, smartphones, and smart tablets are all, by default, configured to locate and select the first available network on a public Wi-Fi hotspot. However, this is how scammers and hackers can quickly gain unauthorized access to your computer. Change the default discovery settings and disable these options. You should always manually choose the preferably password-protected network only after turning on the VPN software. These three simple steps ensure the connection remains private and safe.

A debit card makes it easy to access money from the bank or an ATM. One could easily spend what’s in their account without carrying cash or writing a check. However, each bank sets its terms and conditions associated with a debit card. Those who sign up for one online without a second thought might often incur unwanted charges. With this in mind, here are four mistakes to avoid when applying for a debit card. Going for the first available option Several banks offer a series of debit card options to customers. However, in a hurry to get things done, people apply for the first card they see online. Doing so may result in paying higher fees than one should or signing up for features that one does not need. Individuals must always take their time when applying for debit cards to ensure they sign up with a suitable provider. Not reading the fine print One of the common mistakes people make when applying for a debit card online is ignoring the fine print. While a bank may offer a debit card free of charge, it might be conditional on eligibility criteria. For example, one might incur charges if they do not spend a certain amount within the first year, such as $500. Reading the conditions also helps one better understand any important aspects of the debit card. Overlooking the ATM withdrawal fees Most individuals who prefer using cash overlook the ATM withdrawal charges levied by their bank. For instance, some financial institutions only offer up to five free transactions per month. Anything above that may incur a certain fee per transaction. In addition to this, banks may levy charges on transactions conducted at out-of-network ATMs. So, one should always check the ATM withdrawal fees when applying for a debit card online.

According to the FICO credit score model, those with a score below 670 are considered to have bad credit. The lower the credit score, the harder it is to get personal loans. However, it is not impossible. There are several lenders who have minimum credit score requirements. Shopping around and researching is one of the best ways to find offers and discover ways to get money with a bad credit score. Here’s how to do it. Check credit report and credit score thoroughly Before starting the process of applying for loans, pull copies of credit reports. These are usually available for free from the three credit bureaus: Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax. Then, review all the information lenders often see while evaluating a loan application. Check for issues or patterns in the credit history, such as closed accounts and missed payments. If there are any errors, get them rectified. Once this is done, take the necessary steps to improve the credit score. Compare lenders and get prequalification Several online lenders offer loans even with bad credit scores. While traditional banks solely rely on credit scores, online lenders look at other criteria along with credit scores while approving loan applications. These criteria usually differ across lenders but often include the applicant’s job, income, and education history. Thus, one can check out these lenders and look at their various offerings. Shortlist a couple of the lenders and prequalify with them. Doing this will give a fair idea of whether one is eligible for the loan and what rates would be applicable if the loan gets approved. Add a co-signer A co-signer is a person willing to take equal responsibility for paying off a loan. Usually, a friend or family member with an excellent credit score is eligible to be a co-signer. Having someone co-sign is one of the easiest ways to improve one’s eligibility odds and lower interest rates when applying for a loan with a bad credit score.