Milpitas Chat

Mom

noreply@blogger.com (Teacher Jennifer) — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 21:16:00 +0000

On Tuesday, December 20, 2011, my mother passed away after a long illness. MilpitasChat will resume its regular schedule in the new year. Thank you.

New Series: Banking and Finance

noreply@blogger.com (Teacher Jennifer) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 08:01:00 +0000

During Oct and Nov 2011, we will be studying Banking and Finance.

The Difference between Banks and Credit Unions: Part 1

noreply@blogger.com (Teacher Jennifer) — Sat, 26 Nov 2011 08:01:00 +0000

larissawalkiw: The Difference between Banks and Credit Unions: Part 1

Part one of a very two-dimensional financial mini-series.

SimpleWiki Credit Union definition: A credit union is a cooperative financial institution that is owned and controlled by its members. Credit unions differ from banks and other financial institutions in that the members who have accounts in the credit union are the owners of the credit union - there are no external shareholders. Profits from the operations of a credit union are distributed to members in the form of dividends.

The basic services of a credit union are to offer savings accounts and loans to members.

The Difference between Banks and Credit Unions: Part 2

noreply@blogger.com (Teacher Jennifer) — Sat, 26 Nov 2011 08:01:00 +0000

larissawalkiw: The Difference between Banks and Credit Unions: Part 2

Part two of a very two-dimensional mini-series featuring the Young & Free Chequing account.

Microsavings Could Mean Big Gains for the World’s Poor

noreply@blogger.com (Teacher Jennifer) — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 02:40:00 +0000

VOA Learning English: Microsavings Could Mean Big Gains for the World’s Poor

A conference gathers experts to find ways to bring services to those left out of the financial system ECONOMICS REPORT (download mp3)

Microsaving Programs

noreply@blogger.com (Teacher Jennifer) — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 18:28:00 +0000

VOAVideo: Microsaving Programs
In a series of workshops and plenary sessions, microfinance industry experts from around the world are moving their focus toward some of their newest ideas to help the poor through microsaving programs.

Moving

noreply@blogger.com (Teacher Jennifer) — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 20:33:00 +0000

I am moving to a new home. I have limited access to the internet, so my posts will be infrequent. I hope to resume a regular daily posting schedule soon. Thanks--Teacher Jennifer

Día de los Muertos @ St Joseph Cathedral

noreply@blogger.com (Teacher Jennifer) — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 18:07:00 +0000

The Veterans Altar for Día de los Muertos Celebration @ St Joseph Cathedral

WikiHow: How to Celebrate Day of the Dead (Dia De Los Muertos)

ESOLCourses.com: Day of the Dead - Worksheets and Exercises on El Día de los Muertos

ESL Podcast 734 – Believing in Scary Things

noreply@blogger.com (Teacher Jennifer) — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 07:01:00 +0000

ESL Podcast 734 – Believing in Scary Things Do you believe in ghosts? Listen to this episodes and find out if there is something scary waiting for you today. Download Podcast

Students Play the Money Game

noreply@blogger.com (Teacher Jennifer) — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 07:01:00 +0000

VOAnews: Students Play the Money Game

Board game inventors want to get kids off on right financial foot (download mp3)

Real World of Money Comes to Classroom

noreply@blogger.com (Teacher Jennifer) — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 07:01:00 +0000

VOAVideo: Real World of Money Comes to Classroom

In the current economic downturn, many American schools are adding a new subject to the curriculum - financial literacy. One program in Virginia even gets students out of the classroom for a day to learn how far their money will go in the real world. (read the story)

How To Save Money

noreply@blogger.com (Teacher Jennifer) — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 07:01:00 +0000

Howcast: How To Save Money
People who manage to sock away money -- even on a tight budget -- all live by this motto: Make it over, use it up, make do, or do without. Now you can learn from their secrets!

To complete this How-To you will need:
Motto
Due diligence
Quality merchandise
Price monitoring
Self-sufficiency
Priorities
Promotion codes (optional)
Coupons (optional)
Free shipping (optional)
Store policies (optional)

Step 1: Do your homework

Do your homework before buying anything, especially big-ticket items. With the internet, comparison shopping is easier than ever.

Tip: Once you've made a buying decision, search online for "promotion codes," "coupons," and "free shipping."

Step 2: Invest in quality
Buy quality merchandise. It's cheaper in the long run because it won't need to be fixed as often or replaced as soon.

Step 3: Check every receipt
Check every store receipt and restaurant bill to make sure you've been charged correctly. If you put a meal on a credit or debit card, keep the restaurant receipt to compare with your credit card or bank statement; some restaurants engage in so-called "tip-jacking," -- adding in a tip or increasing the one you gave them.

Tip: Know the store policy on price accuracy; some give away an item if it's scanned higher than the advertised cost.

Step 4: Ask yourself this question
When buying a non-necessity, like clothing, ask yourself if you really, really love it. If not, put it back. Even if you do love it, wait a few days before buying it; by then, the urge may have completely passed.

Step 5: Become a do-it-yourselfer
Become a devotee of do-it-yourself. Learn how to make simple home repairs, do basic sewing, and cook meals from scratch.

Step 6: Establish priorities
Set priorities, such as home ownership or early retirement. Saving up is easier if you have savings goals.

Thanks for watching How To Save Money! If you enjoyed this video subscribe to the Howcast YouTube channel! http://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=howcast

How To Use Your Credit Card or Debit Card

noreply@blogger.com (Teacher Jennifer) — Sun, 23 Oct 2011 05:06:00 +0000

Howcast: How To Use Your Credit Card or Debit Card
There are times when it's to your advantage to use plastic.

To complete this How-To you will need:
Information about your credit and debit cards

Step 1: Read the fine print
Read the fine print. Find out exactly what sort of fees you're being charged. Is there a per-transaction fee associated with your debit card? Does your credit card charge a very high Annual Percentage Rate, or APR?

Step 2: Cover your charges
Only use your debit card if you have enough money in your checking account to cover your charges. Your bank might have high penalties for dipping below your minimum balance.

Step 3: Pay off immediately
Pay back money as soon as possible. If you do have to carry a balance, make sure you have a low APR. A small amount of debt can multiply into something large and unwieldy.

Step 4: Keep your cards safe
No matter which card you use, be sure to keep track of it and to keep the card number safe, and the PIN number for you debit card in a separate, safe place. Be sure to alert your financial institution immediately if your card is lost, stolen, or if you suspect it's being used fraudulently.

Tip: If you use your debit card to make a purchase, opt to use it as a credit card, allowing you to sign for a purchase rather than entering your PIN, which offers you more protection in case of theft.

Step 5: Use in place of cash
Great times to use your debit card are when your bank isn't in the area, meaning you'd pay a hefty ATM fee to get cash, or when you simply don't feel like lugging cash around. Enjoy the freedom!

How To Decide Between Getting a Credit or Debit Card

noreply@blogger.com (Teacher Jennifer) — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 07:01:00 +0000

Howcast: How To Decide Between Getting a Credit or Debit Card

In this day and age, people use less paper, and more plastic. But which kind of plastic is best for you?

To complete this How-To you will need:
Awareness of your spending habits
Knowledge of your credit history

Step 1: Assess your finances
Ask yourself a few questions. What you want to use your credit or debit card for? Is it for convenience? Do you want buyer's insurance? Do you want to improve your credit score?

Tip: Debit cards are easier to get approved for than credit cards.

Step 2: Gather information
Gather all the information. Be sure to read about all charges and rules on both credit and debit cards.

Step 3: Choose a credit card
If you think you can pay off the balance in full every month, choose a credit card. It helps you build a credit history, and there are more perks, like rewards, cash back, travel and buyer's insurance. You also get more protection if your information is stolen or lost.

Step 4: Get a no-fee card
Choose a "no-fee" card with a zero percent interest introductory rate. Read any pamphlets and updates that the company sends, and pay your in full balance every single month.

Step 5: Assess your habits
Be honest with yourself. If you are prone to accruing debt, a debit card is a good choice for debt deterrence, because they are directly linked to your checking account, and you will incur a penalty immediately if you overdraw.

Tip: Merchants will ask you if you'd like "credit" or "debit." Choose "credit" to avoid entering your PIN number, which will protect you from identity theft.

Step 6: Get a debit card
If you think you want a debit card, read the bank's policies to see what penalties there are for exceeding your account balance. Remember -- you'll have to keep close track of how much money is in your checking account. Now plunk your plastic with impunity!

Love and Money (Part 3)

noreply@blogger.com (Teacher Jennifer) — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 07:01:00 +0000

WeAreNY: Love and Money (Part 3)

Its their first date. Jorge thinks Sophie is rich. Sophie thinks Jorge is rich. But neither is! With the help of their friends and co-workers, they learn the truth about love and money in this romantic comedy about financial empowerment, saving money and banking in the Big Apple.

Starring Ken Maharaj, Arturo Castro, Eileen Hannah, Kate Pak, Vashty Mompoint, Samia Akudo.
Directed by Darren Methlie.

WeAreNY: Love and Money (Part 1)

WeAreNY: Love and Money (Part 2)

For more information, visit:
www.nyc.gov/LearnEnglish

ESL Podcast 563 – Reducing Household Expenses

noreply@blogger.com (Teacher Jennifer) — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 05:15:00 +0000

ESL Podcast 563 – Reducing Household Expenses

I think we have a pretty good idea of our spending patterns, so it shouldn't be too hard to come up with a budget that we can both live with (download mp3)

How To Make a Personal Budget

noreply@blogger.com (Teacher Jennifer) — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 07:01:00 +0000

Howcast: How To Make a Personal Budget

Anybody can create a budget. Making one you can live with is the challenge.

To complete this How-To you will need:
Spending journal
Resolve
Sacrifice
Willpower
Personal finance software
A Christmas club bank account

Step 1: Track expenses
For one month, write down every single cash purchase that you make.

Step 2: Review finances
With the help of your spending journal and your credit card and/or debit card statements, tally up how much you spent the past month. Then subtract it from your monthly net income.

Step 3: List debts
List any debts you have.

Tip: You can find personal finance software online that will help you create a budget.

Step 4: Analyze spending
If you are spending more than you earn, see where you can cut back. Keep trimming until you've figured out an amount you can afford to spend each month on nonessential items like new clothes and dinners out.

Tip: Don't forget to include a payment to yourself—as savings. Even if it's just a nominal amount, it will get you in the habit of saving money.

Step 5: Include seasonal expenses
Tally up as many annual expenses as you can (holidays gifts, a summer vacation, birthday presents); divide by 12 and add them under "Miscellaneous."

Tip: If you have credit card debt, factor in the greatest monthly payment you can afford that is above the minimum so you can begin chipping away at your debt.

Step 6: Make adjustments
Review your budget every month and adjust it if necessary, even if that means allocating more to expenses and less to savings and/or debt than you'd hoped. You need to keep it realistic, or it won't work.

Tip: If the holidays kill you every year, consider starting a Christmas club account—that's where a certain portion of your paycheck goes directly into a special bank account.

Step 7: Be realistic
Be realistic about sticking to your budget. Like a diet, a budget is meant to be blown once in a while. Just don't use it as an excuse to ditch it altogether.

Thanks for watching How To Make a Personal Budget! If you enjoyed this video subscribe to the Howcast YouTube channel! http://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=howcast

ESL Podcast 271 – Using an ATM

noreply@blogger.com (Teacher Jennifer) — Sat, 15 Oct 2011 07:01:00 +0000

ESL Podcast 271 – Using an ATM

Robin: I want to make a deposit, transfer some money between my checking and savings accounts, and make a cash withdrawal. (download mp3)

Love and Money (Part 2)

noreply@blogger.com (Teacher Jennifer) — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 07:01:00 +0000

WeAreNY: Love and Money (Part 2)

Its their first date. Jorge thinks Sophie is rich. Sophie thinks Jorge is rich. But neither is! With the help of their friends and co-workers, they learn the truth about love and money in this romantic comedy about financial empowerment, saving money and banking in the Big Apple.

Starring Ken Maharaj, Arturo Castro, Eileen Hannah, Kate Pak, Vashty Mompoint, Samia Akudo.
Directed by Darren Methlie.

For more information, visit:
www.nyc.gov/LearnEnglish

ESL Podcast 163 - Saving and Spending Money

noreply@blogger.com (Teacher Jennifer) — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 07:01:00 +0000

ESL Podcast 163 - Saving and Spending Money

My brother Frank has the reputation for being stingy with money. He likes to save up and only spend when he has to. (download mp3)

Love and Money (Part 1)

noreply@blogger.com (Teacher Jennifer) — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 07:01:00 +0000

WeAreNYLove and Money (Part 1)

Its their first date. Jorge thinks Sophie is rich. Sophie thinks Jorge is rich. But neither is! With the help of their friends and co-workers, they learn the truth about love and money in this romantic comedy about financial empowerment, saving money and banking in the Big Apple.

Starring Ken Maharaj, Arturo Castro, Eileen Hannah, Kate Pak, Vashty Mompoint, Samia Akudo.
Directed by Darren Methlie.

For more information, visit:
www.nyc.gov/LearnEnglish

Spending Money

noreply@blogger.com (Teacher Jennifer) — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 07:01:00 +0000

ESL-Lab.com: Spending Money

Did you receive allowance from your parents when you were child? How about now? Did you have to do household chores to earn the money? How did you spend it?

How To Void a Check

noreply@blogger.com (Teacher Jennifer) — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 07:01:00 +0000

HowCast: How To Void a Check

Whether you've made a mistake, like writing the wrong year or wrong amount, or want to set up automatic bill payments or direct deposit, you may need to void a check.

To complete this How-To you will need:

A pen
A check

Step 1: Write void
Write the word VOID in the space where you would write the amount of the check. If you've already written the amount, write over it.

Step 2: Write across signature line
Write VOID across the signature line on the check. If you've already signed the check, write over your signature.

Step 3: Write across the front of the check
Write VOID in big letters across the front of the check.

Tip: Technically, you only have to write once across the front, but it's better to be safe than sorry.

Step 4: Write across the back of the check
Write VOID in big letters across the back of the check. Whether you've endorsed it doesn't matter.

Step 5: Write check number
Write the check number in your check register.

Step 6: Write reason
Write a note about the reason you voided the check, in case you need it later for reference.

Thanks for watching How To Void a Check!

ESL Banking Lesson

noreply@blogger.com (Teacher Jennifer) — Sun, 09 Oct 2011 07:01:00 +0000

ESL Banking Lesson by elcivics.com

Banks are a safe place to keep your money. (read more) (page 1, page 2, page 3)

How To Balance Your Checkbook

noreply@blogger.com (Teacher Jennifer) — Sun, 09 Oct 2011 04:39:00 +0000

HowCast: How To Balance Your Checkbook

Do you cross your fingers when you write a check, hoping it won't bounce? Then it's time to learn how to monitor your finances.

To complete this How-To you will need:

A checkbook registry
Lined paper
A pen or pencil
And basic math skills

Step 1: Keep track
Keep track of all the checks your write, the money you withdraw from your checking account at ATMs, and the purchases you make with a debit card. Enter everything into the registry that came with your checkbook.

Step 2: Get organized
Find or download your latest bank statement, grab your checkbook registry, a piece of lined paper, and a pen or pencil.

Step 3: Mark cleared checks
Look at your statement to see which checks have cleared, and tick them off in your register.

Step 4: Verify deposits
Verify that any deposits listed on the statement are recorded in your register. If they're not, enter them.

Step 5: Reconcile withdrawals
Compare any withdrawals you made, whether through a bank teller, an ATM machine, or a debit card, with the amounts debited on your bank statement. If you missed any, write them in your checkbook registry now.

Tip: Keep your ATM receipts until you can verify them on your bank statement.

Step 6: See what's left
Note any additional amounts listed on your statement, like interest added to your account or bank fees that were deducted. Record these in your register. Then update your ending balance.

Step 7: Create a balancing ledger
Take the piece of lined paper and divide it into two columns. In the first column, write down all your outstanding deposits and total them. In the second column, add up your outstanding checks and any cash withdrawals or debit purchases that are not on your bank statement.

Step 8: Do some math
Take the ending balance on your bank statement, add the outstanding deposit total, and then subtract the outstanding checks, withdrawals, and debit charges. This is the total amount currently available to you in your checking account. And your checkbook is now balanced!

Thanks for watching How To Balance Your Checkbook!