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  • Side Hustles to Accelerate Student Loan Repayment: A Combination of Wisdom and Diligence

    Side Hustles to Accelerate Student Loan Repayment: A Combination of Wisdom and Diligence

    Faced with the ever-increasing burden of student loans, many people are seeking to accelerate repayment and alleviate financial pressure through side hustles. A side hustle isn’t just a supplemental income; it’s also a crucial bridge to achieving financial freedom. This article summarizes several effective and practical side hustles to help you embark on a solid path to faster loan repayment.


    Understanding the Importance and Planning of Side Hustles

    Repaying your loans is both a responsibility and a key to financial stability and future freedom. After setting clear repayment goals, choosing a side hustle that fits your time and skills to generate a consistent and stable additional cash flow is an effective strategy for accelerating loan repayment.


    Recommended Effective Side Hustles

    1. Online Freelancing

    Professional skills like writing, design, programming, and marketing allow you to take on freelance work, offering flexible hours and high income potential.

    2. Sharing Economy Platforms

    Quickly monetize unused assets by renting out your spare time through platforms like Uber and Airbnb.

    3. Courier and Errand Services

    Flexible hours allow you to accept orders and earn quick cash returns.

    4. Online Tutoring

    Combining subject expertise, we provide tutoring services with stable and sustainable income.

    5. Used Item Trading

    Selling unused items helps you clear space and accumulate funds for loan repayments.


    Implementation and Management Strategies

    • Rational Time Allocation

    Avoid side hustles from impacting your main business and quality of life, maintaining a balanced income and expenditure.

    • Prioritize repayment of high-interest loans

    Invest side income primarily in higher-interest loans to save on interest.

    • Automatic Transfer Repayment Plan

    Set up automatic repayments to improve payment discipline and efficiency.

    • Record and Monitor Cash Flow

    Timely organize side income to ensure funds are used for their intended purpose.


    Psychological Adjustment and Sustained Motivation

    • View loan repayment as an investment in your future and cultivate a positive mindset.
    • Set up milestone rewards to boost repayment motivation.
    • Seek support from family and friends to share the burden and encourage each other.

    Student loans can feel like a heavy burden, but with smart side hustle planning and consistent implementation, you can shorten your repayment period and reduce financial anxiety. May this side hustle guide serve as a guiding light on your journey toward financial freedom.

  • The Mental Health Impact of Student Loan Debt: A Closer Look

    The Mental Health Impact of Student Loan Debt: A Closer Look

    Student loan debt is more than a financial burden—it profoundly affects mental health and well-being, often driving borrowers to severe stress, anxiety, depression, and in some tragic cases, suicidal thoughts. This article synthesizes research and personal stories to illuminate the psychological toll of student debt and emphasize the urgent need for compassionate solutions.

    The Scope of the Problem

    In the U.S., over 45 million people carry student loan debt totaling nearly $1.7 trillion. Studies reveal that a high debt-to-income ratio and growing, unmanageable loan balances significantly deteriorate mental health. Approximately 64% of borrowers report that debt negatively impacts their psychological well-being, while about 1 in 14 have experienced suicidal ideation during repayment periods.

    Psychological Effects of Student Debt

    Depression and Anxiety

    Student debt contributes to high rates of depression and anxiety. Borrowers often grapple with feelings of hopelessness and persistent stress related to monthly payments that strain their budgets. Even when enrolled in income-driven repayment plans intended to reduce payment burdens, many still find themselves overwhelmed financially and emotionally.

    Suicidal Ideation

    Suicidal thoughts among borrowers are alarming. Surveys indicate that about 6% to 7% of student debt holders have contemplated suicide at some point because of their financial stress. For some, the despair stems from feeling trapped by large balances, default consequences, or wage garnishments, which exacerbate their sense of hopelessness.

    Life Impact and Regret

    Many debt holders express regret for borrowing in the first place, feeling their lives have been constrained by financial obligations that diminish future opportunities. Stories from borrowers with six-figure debts illustrate the psychological shrinkage of their prospects, overshadowed by the stress of constant repayment pressure.

    Demographic Disparities

    The mental health impacts of student debt are disproportionately severe among Black borrowers and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. These groups often carry higher debt relative to their income and have longer repayment periods, magnifying psychological distress and financial instability.

    Employer and Societal Awareness

    Employers acknowledge the financial stress employees with student loans endure. Over 80% of human resource leaders recognize wage growth has failed to keep up with inflation, impacting employees’ mental and financial health. Workers with student debt often delay major life milestones such as buying homes or saving for retirement due to these financial pressures.

    What Needs to Change

    While federal programs like income-driven repayment plans and recent loan forgiveness efforts provide some relief, data shows that mental health outcomes have improved only marginally. Real, sustained progress requires broader systemic solutions including widespread loan forgiveness, better financial education, and expanded mental health resources tailored for borrowers.

    Student loan debt is a pervasive source of psychological anguish for millions. Beyond financial strain, it affects self-esteem, mental stability, and life outlook, laying a heavy burden on borrowers’ futures. Addressing this crisis demands compassion, comprehensive policy reforms, and greater awareness of the intertwined nature of financial and mental health.

  • Student Loan Borrowers Get Clarity on Repayment Plans: A 2025 Overview

    Student Loan Borrowers Get Clarity on Repayment Plans: A 2025 Overview

    The landscape of student loan repayment is undergoing significant changes in 2025, reshaping the options available to borrowers and bringing much-needed clarity amid recent confusion. As federal and state policies evolve, borrowers face new rules on repayment plans, eligibility, and loan forgiveness programs. This article provides a structured summary of these developments, helping loan holders navigate their obligations and choices effectively.

    Background: Shifting Student Loan Repayment Environment

    Recent years have seen several shifts impacting federal student loan repayment plans. Legal challenges, government reforms, and administrative adjustments have converged to delay or modify access to income-based repayment options. The Biden administration’s 2023 introduction of the SAVE (Saving on a Valuable Education) plan sought to offer lower, income-based payments, but court rulings and legislative actions have since complicated its implementation.

    Current Repayment Options and Changes

    Key Repayment Plans

    The government is consolidating repayment options, intending to replace previous multiple plans with streamlined alternatives:

    • Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP): To become standard by 2028, this plan bases payments on adjusted gross income rather than discretionary income, potentially affecting how much borrowers pay monthly.
    • 10-Year Fixed Payment Plan: Provides predictable monthly payments not tied to income, offering an alternative for borrowers who prefer stable repayment amounts.

    Phase-Out of Older Plans

    Many existing income-driven repayment plans are being phased out by 2028, narrowing borrowers’ options. The SAVE plan, previously considered the most affordable, has been suspended due to ongoing legal disputes, affecting around 8 million borrowers.

    Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Update

    The PSLF program, which forgives remaining loan balances after 120 qualifying payments in nonprofit or government jobs, is under review. Proposed new regulations would restrict eligibility of employers, potentially limiting the scope of forgiveness. This proposal is under negotiation and could take effect as soon as July 2026.

    Impact of Legal and Administrative Dynamics

    • Suspension of Applications: The U.S. Education Department has paused accepting new applications for income-driven repayment plans amid court rulings, leaving many borrowers in limbo.
    • Backlogs: Nearly 2 million borrowers seeking affordable repayment plans are stuck in a backlog, significantly delaying relief.
    • Government Workforce Reduction: The Education Department has seen significant staff cuts, raising concerns about effective policy rollout and borrower support.

    What Borrowers Should Know

    • Higher Payments Coming: With income-based plans suspended, many may see higher monthly payments or limited plan availability.
    • New Rules Starting Soon: Post-July 2026 borrowers will only have two repayment plan options.
    • Monitoring Eligibility: Those in public service roles should watch for changes in PSLF eligibility criteria that may affect forgiveness prospects.
    • Voluntary Payments: Borrowers can make extra payments any time, but this does not impact mandatory payroll deductions.

    Navigating Repayment in 2025

    In this period of transition, borrowers should:

    • Stay informed through official channels like StudentAid.gov.
    • Communicate with loan servicers to understand current repayment status.
    • Prepare financially for changes in repayment amounts.
    • Explore supplementary options such as loan consolidation or refinancing, where applicable.

    The year 2025 marks a pivotal period for student loan borrowers as clarity emerges from prior uncertainty. While fewer repayment options may restrict choice, the government aims to simplify the system with plans better aligned to income and fairness. In the face of legal hurdles and administrative backlogs, borrowers must stay proactive and engaged, understanding their rights and obligations to manage loan repayment effectively.

  • MPOWER Financing Review: A Comprehensive Guide for International Students

    MPOWER Financing Review: A Comprehensive Guide for International Students

    Pursuing higher education abroad, particularly in the United States or Canada, often demands considerable financial resources. For international students without access to traditional loans, securing funding can be a formidable challenge. MPOWER Financing offers a unique student loan solution, designed specifically for international and DACA students who lack U.S. credit history or co-signers. This review outlines MPOWER Financing’s key features, advantages, and considerations to help students make well-informed decisions.

    What is MPOWER Financing?

    MPOWER Financing is a public benefit corporation founded by international students aiming to support global learners in financing their education. Unlike conventional lenders, MPOWER bases loan approvals on a student’s future potential rather than credit score or collateral. This approach unlocks educational opportunities for those otherwise excluded due to the lack of a co-signer or U.S. credit history.

    Key Features of MPOWER Financing

    No Co-Signer or Collateral Required

    One of MPOWER’s most significant advantages is that applicants do not need a co-signer or any form of collateral. This feature makes financing accessible for international students who often lack U.S.-based financial support.

    Fixed Interest Rates

    MPOWER offers fixed interest rates, which ensure predictable repayment amounts throughout the loan term. This stability in monthly payments helps students budget more effectively.

    Targeted Eligibility

    Loans are available exclusively to students enrolled in specific eligible universities in the U.S. and Canada. Applicants must be international or DACA students pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees.

    Additional Support Services

    Besides financing, MPOWER provides scholarships and career support services. These resources assist students in securing employment post-graduation, facilitating loan repayment and successful integration into their new environments.

    Application and Approval Process

    The application process is entirely online and designed for efficiency. Initial approvals can come swiftly, but final approval requires submitting additional documentation, such as admission evidence. MPOWER evaluates candidates holistically, focusing on academic background, field of study (with a preference for STEM fields), and potential post-graduation income.

    Repayment Terms and Conditions

    • Grace Period: Repayment begins six months after graduation or after leaving school.
    • Early Repayment: Borrowers may repay loans early without penalties, which can reduce total interest charges.
    • Loan Term: Typically up to 10 years, with fixed monthly payments.
    • Interest Rates: APRs generally range from around 7% to over 15%, varying based on the borrower’s profile and prevailing financial conditions.

    Pros of MPOWER Financing

    • Access to credit for students without U.S. co-signers
    • Fixed interest rates for budgeting certainty
    • Additional scholarships and career support services
    • Transparent application process and responsive customer service

    Cons and Considerations

    • Interest rates can be relatively high compared to federal loans or other private options with co-signers.
    • Loan amounts may not fully cover all tuition and living expenses, necessitating supplemental funding.
    • Eligibility is limited to certain schools.
    • Some borrowers have reported challenges with customer service and high interest rate adjustments upon loan renewal.

    User Experience and Reputation

    Customer reviews generally praise MPOWER for its smooth, user-friendly application process and supportive customer service. Many international students appreciate the company’s role in enabling their studies abroad without needing a co-signer. However, concerns about the comparatively high interest rates and their impact on visa approvals have been noted.

    MPOWER holds an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, reflecting solid trustworthiness. Transparency in loan terms and prompt assistance are frequently highlighted by borrowers as strengths.

    MPOWER Financing is a pioneering option for international and DACA students seeking education loans without traditional financial backing. While the interest rates can be on the higher side, the absence of the need for co-signers and the additional support services make MPOWER a strong contender for those with limited alternatives. Prospective borrowers should carefully review terms, compare other options where available, and plan for repayment based on realistic post-graduation income expectations.

    For international students committed to studying in North America but lacking U.S. credit history, MPOWER Financing stands as a valuable financial bridge toward educational and professional advancement.

  • IRS Tax Refund Inquiry FAQs and Error Analyses

    IRS Tax Refund Inquiry FAQs and Error Analyses

    While waiting for a tax refund from the IRS, many taxpayers encounter various questions and issues. This article will analyze common refund inquiry confusions and errors, and step by step explain the key points of using the IRS’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool to help taxpayers better understand their refund status and avoid misunderstandings.


    Understanding the Functions and Limitations of the “Where’s My Refund?” Tool

    The IRS provides the “Where’s My Refund?” online inquiry platform to allow taxpayers to track their refund status. This tool typically updates data within 24 to 48 hours after a tax return is submitted, showing three key stages of the refund process:

    1. Refund Request Received
    2. Refund Processing
    3. Refund Issued

    However, system update times are affected by IRS workload, tax return complexity, and identity verification, resulting in occasional delays in query results.


    Common Tax Refund Inquiry Issues and Causes

    • Query Status Not Updating for a Long Time
      This is often due to complex IRS audits or delays caused by random checks of tax return data. We recommend waiting at least 21 days.
    • System Displays Inconsistent or Incorrect Information
      This is often caused by incorrect identification information entry or delayed IRS database updates. Verifying your name, Social Security number, and tax year is crucial.
    • Refund Amount Not Matching Expectations
      This may be due to debt deductions, unreported income tax, or tax credit adjustments. Please check the IRS notification letter for further confirmation.

    Common Errors and How to Avoid Them

    • Inaccurate Information
      Make sure your name, Social Security number, and tax year match your tax return exactly to avoid repeated attempts that could lead to account lockout.
    • Repeated Inquiries Increase Anxiety
      IRS data updates at a limited frequency; frequently refreshing the inquiry page will not be helpful.
    • Misinterpreting Inquiry Status
      Correctly understand the meaning of different status indicators to avoid anxiety or unnecessary hassles.

    Practical Tips for Improving Tax Refund Inquiry Efficiency

    • Prepare Accurate Information
      Ensure your name, Social Security number, and tax year are correct to minimize inquiries caused by incorrect information.
    • Schedule Your Actions
      Don’t rush to check your status multiple times daily; it’s recommended to check your status every 48 hours.
    • Use Official IRS Channels
      Rely only on the official IRS website and certified apps to avoid phishing attempts and information leaks.
    • Pay Attention to IRS Notification Letters
      Rely on official IRS correspondence for any refund anomalies; do not trust unofficial sources.

    Tax refund inquiry is a common yet challenging process. Understanding the workings of the IRS’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool and developing the correct approach and mindset can help avoid unnecessary anxiety and identify potential issues promptly.

  • 2025 Best Business Savings and Money Market Account Guide

    2025 Best Business Savings and Money Market Account Guide

    Business cash management requires both fund security and reasonable returns, and flexible access to funds. Therefore, business savings accounts and money market accounts have become crucial tools for corporate financial management. In 2025, these two account types will remain key options for companies to optimize cash flow and increase profits.

    Introduction to Business Savings Accounts

    Business savings accounts provide a robust storage channel for idle company funds. They typically offer:

    • No or very low account maintenance fees
    • Reasonable interest rates
    • Fund security (federal deposit insurance)
    • Flexible liquidity

    They are suitable for businesses as a short-term cash pool, ensuring stable growth and on-demand access.

    Business Money Market Account Overview

    Money market accounts are a cross between savings and checking accounts, typically offering businesses:

    • Higher interest rates
    • The ability to write checks and conduct electronic transfers
    • A limited number of monthly transactions

    Provide businesses with a highly liquid and profitable cash management option to meet their daily operating capital needs.

    2025 Business Savings and Money Market Account Selection

    Account NameTypeAnnual Percentage Yield (APY)Minimum DepositAccount FeesKey BenefitsNotes
    CIT Bank Business SavingsSavings Account3.75%-4.00%$100No Monthly FeeHigh Interest Rate, Low Entry Requirements, Flexible ManagementConvenient Online Management, Excellent Customer Service
    BlueVine Business Money MarketMoney Market Account4.00%$250No Monthly FeeHigh Interest Rate, Checking Acceptance, Moderate Transaction LimitsSuitable for Businesses that Need Checking Functionality
    Axos Business SavingsSavings Account3.50%$1,000No Monthly FeeStable Return, Security, and Easy TransfersOnline Access
    Radius Bank Tailored SavingsSavings Account3.60%$0No Monthly FeeZero Entry, Ideal for Small Businesses to Centralize FundsFast Transfers
    UFB Direct Business MMAMoney Market Account3.90%$0No Monthly FeeUnlimited Free Withdrawals, Premium Interest Rates, High LiquidityPurely Online Banking, Ideal for Digital Businesses
    First Republic Business MMAMoney Market Account3.80%$25,000Tailored for High-End ClientsDedicated Customer Service, Customized Banking SolutionsThe Top Choice for High-Net-Worth Businesses

    Tips for Choosing a Business Savings or Money Market Account

    1. Understand Your Funding Needs
      Determine your fund activity and whether you need checking services to determine the account type.
    2. Interest Rate vs. Fee Trade-off
      High interest rates may be attractive, but consider potential account maintenance and transaction fees.
    3. Minimum Deposit and Withdrawal Limits
      Choose an account that meets your fund size and liquidity needs to avoid penalties or restrictions.
    4. Fund Security
      Prioritize accounts insured by FDIC/NCUA institutions.
    5. Customer Service and Online Experience
      Convenient and efficient account management and timely customer support are crucial.

    Best Practices for Corporate Cash Management

    Effective cash management relies not only on account selection but also requires systematic planning:

    • Maintaining sufficient liquid assets to cover daily operations
    • Leveraging high-yield accounts to maximize capital returns
    • Regularly reviewing account performance and adjusting allocations as needed
    • Leveraging technology tools to improve account monitoring and cash allocation efficiency

    In 2025, while corporate financial management tools will increasingly diversify, savings and money market accounts will remain the cornerstone of cash management. Understanding your business’s funding needs, choosing the right account types and products, and implementing a solid cash management strategy will ensure that every dollar counts and builds a more stable financial future.

  • 20 Effective Passive Income Ideas: A Steady Path to Financial Freedom

    20 Effective Passive Income Ideas: A Steady Path to Financial Freedom

    Eager to make your money work for you, rather than just work for it? Passive income, as a key path to wealth accumulation, has ignited the flames of hope for countless individuals pursuing financial freedom. This article features 20 practical passive income ideas, from asset investment to content creation, to help you build a diversified and stable income system.


    Asset Investment Passive Income

    1. Dividend Stock Investing

    Choose stocks with stable dividends and receive regular cash dividends, automatically growing your capital.

    2. Real Estate Rentals

    Purchasing rental properties and collecting rental income is a traditional and reliable way to preserve wealth.

    3. Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)

    Without directly purchasing real estate, REITs allow you to participate in the real estate market and enjoy returns.

    4. Bonds and Bond Funds

    Bonds provide investors with a steady income stream from regular interest payments, with relatively low risk.


    Digital Product and Content Creation

    5. Publishing eBooks

    Write ebooks and upload them to platforms for consistent sales, generating long-tail revenue.

    6. Creating Online Video Courses

    Convert professional knowledge into course content to monetize your knowledge.

    7. Starting a Blog or Website

    Monetize traffic through advertising and affiliate marketing.

    8. Licensing Photography

    Selling photo copyrights to generate royalties.


    Online Platform Operations

    9. Creating a YouTube Channel

    Create content and earn a share of advertising revenue to attract followers and generate sustainable income.

    10. Managing Social Media Accounts

    Growing revenue through partnerships and promotions.

    11. Leasing Digital Assets

    Profit from renting or trading digital assets such as domain names and virtual currencies.

    12. Software or App Development

    Develop software and generate consistent revenue through subscriptions or paid downloads.


    Other Creative and Automated Methods

    13. Automated E-commerce

    Build an online store that automatically processes orders and automates sales.

    14. Participate in credit card cashback and rewards programs

    Earn cash back and redeem points using financial tools.

    15. Rental Vehicles

    Rent out your unused vehicle fleet through platforms like Turo.

    16. Dividend Partnerships

    Invest in or participate in startups with dividend rights.


    Lifestyle-Related Passive Income

    17. Leasing Unused Space

    Rent out rooms and storage units to unlock the value of your space.

    18. Copyrighted Music Publishing

    Compose music or invest in copyrights and earn ongoing royalties.

    19. Franchise Rights

    Invest in franchises and earn dividend rights.

    20. Automated Finance

    Use robo-advisors to automate your investments and increase your returns.


    Key Tips for Building Passive Income

    • Long-Term Planning
      The appeal of passive income lies in its long-term accumulation; avoid rushing for quick results.
    • Diversified Investment
      Combining multiple passive income sources spreads risk.
    • Continuous Learning and Adjustment
      Continuously optimizing your investment strategy based on market changes.
    • Patience and Perseverance
      Passive income isn’t about getting rich overnight, but rather steady wealth growth.

    Passive income broadens your horizons and frees up time. Find a path that works for you and steadily build the foundation for income, and you’ll be able to navigate economic fluctuations with ease and reach the shores of freedom.

    May this list of passive income ideas inspire you to embark on your journey of wealth exploration and set sail on your own financial journey.

  • Fetch Rewards Review: Is This App Worth Your Time?

    Fetch Rewards Review: Is This App Worth Your Time?

    In the digital age, earning rewards for everyday activities has become a popular way to save money and gain extra perks. Fetch Rewards stands out as a unique app in this space, offering users the chance to earn points for purchases they make. But is Fetch Rewards worth your time and effort? Let’s dive into a comprehensive review of this app, exploring its features, benefits, and potential drawbacks.

    Quick Summary

    • Free app that rewards you for shopping
    • Earn points for purchases made at partner stores
    • Redeem points for gift cards or cash back
    • No fees and easy to use

    What Is Fetch Rewards?

    Fetch Rewards is a mobile app that allows users to earn points by making purchases at partner stores. The app uses receipt scanning technology to track your spending and award points accordingly. Whether you’re buying groceries, dining out, or shopping for clothes, Fetch Rewards can help you earn rewards on your everyday purchases.

    Key Features of Fetch Rewards

    Earn Points for Shopping

    The core feature of Fetch Rewards is its ability to earn points on your purchases. Simply scan your receipts after shopping, and the app will automatically award you points based on the items you bought. These points can then be redeemed for gift cards or cash back, making it a practical way to save money on future expenses.

    User-Friendly Interface

    Fetch Rewards prides itself on its user-friendly interface. The app is easy to navigate, making it simple for users to scan receipts, track their points, and redeem rewards. This accessibility ensures that even those who are not tech-savvy can easily use the app.

    Diverse Partner Network

    Fetch Rewards partners with a wide range of stores, from major retailers to local businesses. This extensive network means that you can earn points on a variety of purchases, increasing your earning potential. Whether you shop at big-box stores or local boutiques, Fetch Rewards has you covered.

    Flexible Redemption Options

    One of the standout features of Fetch Rewards is its flexible redemption options. Users can choose to redeem their points for gift cards to popular retailers or opt for cash back via PayPal. This flexibility allows you to tailor your rewards to your specific needs and preferences.

    No Fees

    Fetch Rewards is completely free to use. There are no subscription fees or hidden costs, making it an accessible option for anyone looking to earn rewards on their purchases. This no-fee policy ensures that you can use the app without worrying about additional expenses.

    How to Get Started with Fetch Rewards

    Getting started with Fetch Rewards is straightforward. Simply download the app from the App Store or Google Play, create an account, and start scanning your receipts. The app will automatically track your purchases and award you points, which you can then redeem for rewards.

    Potential Drawbacks

    While Fetch Rewards offers many benefits, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider. Some users may find that the points earned per purchase are relatively low, requiring a significant amount of shopping to accumulate enough points for meaningful rewards. Additionally, the app relies on receipt scanning, which can be time-consuming for some users.

    Is Fetch Rewards Worth It?

    Overall, Fetch Rewards is a valuable tool for anyone looking to earn extra rewards on their everyday purchases. Its user-friendly interface, extensive partner network, and flexible redemption options make it a standout choice in the rewards app space. While the points earned per purchase may be modest, the cumulative effect can lead to significant savings over time. If you’re already shopping at partner stores, Fetch Rewards is a convenient way to earn rewards without any additional cost.

    Fetch Rewards offers a practical and accessible way to earn rewards on your everyday purchases. With its user-friendly interface, diverse partner network, and flexible redemption options, it stands out as a worthwhile addition to your digital toolkit. Whether you’re looking to save money on future expenses or simply want to earn extra rewards, Fetch Rewards is a solid choice. Give it a try and see how it can help you maximize your savings.

  • Copper Review: Is This Rewards App Worth Your Time?

    Copper Review: Is This Rewards App Worth Your Time?

    In the world of digital finance, rewards apps have become increasingly popular, offering users the chance to earn extra cash or gift cards for everyday activities. Copper, one such app, has garnered attention for its unique approach to rewards. Originally designed as a banking platform for teens, Copper has transitioned into a comprehensive rewards app. But how does it stack up against the competition, and is it worth your time? Let’s dive into a detailed review of Copper’s features, benefits, and drawbacks.

    Quick Summary

    • Free rewards app that pays you for shopping, playing games, and completing surveys.
    • Redeem rewards for gift cards or cash via PayPal or Venmo.
    • Financial literacy content aimed at educating users, especially teens.
    • No fees, making it accessible to a wide audience.

    What Is Copper?

    Copper started as a banking fintech platform for teens in 2019, offering deposit accounts and debit cards. However, in May 2024, Copper announced that it would no longer provide banking services due to the discontinuation of its banking partner’s services. Instead, Copper has pivoted to focus on its rewards app, which allows users to earn credits for various activities.

    Key Features of Copper

    Earn Money When You Shop

    Copper enables users to earn credits when they make purchases at partner brands. By syncing your debit or credit card to the Copper app, you can automatically track and earn rewards for your spending. This feature is similar to other shopping rewards apps like Drop, where users earn a few credits per purchase.

    Other Earning Opportunities

    Beyond shopping, Copper offers multiple ways to earn credits:

    • Playing Online Games: Engage in fun games within the app to earn additional credits.
    • Completing Surveys: Share your opinions and earn credits for your time.
    • Scanning Receipts: Upload your receipts to earn credits for purchases made outside of Copper’s partner network.
    • Referring Friends: Invite friends to join Copper and earn credits when they sign up.
    • Limited-Time Offers: Take advantage of special promotions and deals to boost your earnings.

    How to Redeem Rewards

    Copper rewards are given in credits, which can be redeemed for gift cards or cash via PayPal or Venmo. Accumulating 500 credits earns you $5, providing a straightforward and flexible redemption process.

    Financial Education

    Copper aims to educate users, particularly teens, through its blog, “Money Moves.” This platform offers bite-sized lessons on financial management, making it a valuable resource for those looking to improve their financial literacy.

    Customer Support

    As an online-only service, Copper provides support through email at support@getcopper.com. Additionally, a 24/7 chatbot is available within the app to answer common questions. If the chatbot cannot resolve your issue, you can submit a ticket to connect with a customer service agent during business hours (Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM PST).

    Are There Any Fees?

    Copper is entirely free to use, with no monthly or annual fees. This makes it an attractive option for users looking to earn rewards without additional costs.

    How Does Copper Compare?

    Copper is comparable to other popular rewards apps like Drop and Swagbucks. Drop offers similar shopping rewards and in-app offers, while Swagbucks provides a variety of earning opportunities, including surveys, games, and retail deals. Swagbucks also offers a $10 bonus for new sign-ups, making it a strong competitor.

    AppHow to EarnMinimum PayoutPayout Options
    CopperShopping, games, surveys, offers, receipts$5Gift cards, PayPal, Venmo
    DropShopping, in-app offers$5Gift cards
    SwagbucksSurveys, games, retail deals$3 (Gift cards)Gift cards, PayPal

    How to Get Started with Copper

    To start earning with Copper, visit their website to create an account. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian will need to finalize the account setup. Once registered, download the Copper app to access your account, as there is no desktop login option.

    Contacting Copper

    For support, you can reach out via email at support@getcopper.com or use the in-app chatbot. If your issue requires further assistance, submit a ticket, and a customer service agent will get back to you during business hours.

    Is Copper Legit?

    Yes, Copper is a legitimate app with a 4.8/5 star rating on the App Store (over 60,000 reviews) and a 3.8-star rating on Google Play (13,000+ reviews). While some users have expressed confusion about the transition away from banking services, the app remains a viable option for earning rewards.

    Is Copper Worth It?

    If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to earn a few extra dollars each month, Copper is worth considering. While no rewards app will make you rich, Copper can help cover small expenses or treat yourself to something nice. To maximize your earnings, consider using multiple rewards apps like Copper, Swagbucks, Drop, and Survey Junkie.

    Copper Features Overview

    ProductRewards App
    PricingFree
    Ways to EarnShopping rewards, online games, surveys, special offers, scanning receipts
    Payout OptionsGift cards, PayPal, Venmo
    Minimum Payout$5
    Customer Service OptionsOnline Chat, Email
    Customer Service Emailsupport@getcopper.com
    Customer Service HoursMonday to Friday, 8 AM – 5 PM PST
    Mobile App AvailabilityiOS and Android
    PromotionsNone

    In conclusion, Copper offers a user-friendly and free platform to earn rewards through various activities. Whether you’re a teen looking to learn about finance or an adult seeking extra cash, Copper provides a legitimate and engaging way to earn rewards. Give it a try and see how it fits into your financial strategy.

  • Student Loan Debt and the Shadow of Suicide: Why Life is More Important Than Debt

    Student Loan Debt and the Shadow of Suicide: Why Life is More Important Than Debt

    “The only way I see to escape student loan debt is to end my life.”

    These words are heartbreaking, revealing a deep despair and a heavy psychological burden. Every year, more and more young people struggle in this invisible prison of debt, even suspecting death as the only escape. However, the value of life far exceeds any numerical debt. Giving up on life not only fails to solve the problem, but instead brings deeper pain and sorrow.

    Suicide Is Not a Solution: Life’s Unfulfilled Possibilities

    Faced with the pressure of unpayable loans, many feel isolated and helpless, believing they are a burden on their families and mistakenly believing that death will ease the burden on their loved ones. However, the opposite is true:

    • Federal student loans are solely the responsibility of the borrower; family members bear no financial responsibility for the loan.
    • Private loans with co-signers (usually parents) continue to bear the debt upon the borrower’s death, becoming a heavy burden on them.

    More importantly, the loss of a person brings with it endless grief and regret, a thousand times heavier than the financial debt. There are many wonderful things in life to look forward to. While debt can feel suffocating, it’s not an insurmountable situation.

    How to Get Out of Debt: Practical Coping Strategies

    Facing the pressures of student loans, there are practical ways to help ease the burden:

    1. Proactively contact your loan servicer

    Loan servicers exist to help borrowers repay their loans. While the phone call can be nerve-wracking, they can offer effective solutions and relief.

    1. Apply for a deferral or forbearance

    A deferral or forbearance allows borrowers to temporarily stop making payments, easing short-term financial pressures. However, interest may continue to accrue during this time.

    1. Choose an income-based repayment plan

    For federal loans, income-driven repayment plans adjust payments based on monthly income, down to as little as $0. These plans can also count towards loan forgiveness if you qualify, significantly reducing the repayment burden.

    1. Understand Private Loan Options

    Private loans have fewer support options, but you can still seek refinancing or negotiate a repayment plan with your lender to reduce your monthly debt.

    1. Beware of Loan Scams

    Financial stress makes you an easy target for scams. Be careful to avoid scams that offer help under the guise of debt relief.

    Seek Support: You Are Not Alone

    Facing stress is not only a financial challenge, but also a psychological one.

    • If you feel hopeless or have suicidal thoughts, it is important to seek professional help, contact a suicide prevention hotline, or find counseling resources.
    • Share your struggles, connect with family and friends, and find emotional support.
    • Many organizations and communities offer programs and services to help debtors; you don’t have to face it alone.

    Amid the darkness of debt, there is still light. Between life and death, choosing survival is the greatest gift you can offer yourself and your loved ones. No debt is worth sacrificing your life for. Remember: life may be difficult, but help is available, and the future holds endless possibilities.