New Job Benefits and Financial Workshops Mark Transition for J$

Time has certainly flown by since the transition in managing this blog. Two months in, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with supportive emails far outnumbering any criticism. On the professional front, J$ is progressing well, having received a pay increase and a contract extension from his employer.

As part of an ongoing effort to enhance financial transparency, there’s a discussion brewing about potentially creating an overall summary of assets and accounts. The intention is to track growth over time, particularly in areas like IRAs, duplex holdings, and gift accounts. While some real estate assets will be excluded from the snapshot, the exercise aims to reflect a “partial net worth” that highlights progress rather than just a final figure. Estimates suggest slow growth, a reality J$ anticipates due to a modest salary. Still, sharing this journey could be beneficial for readers.

Updates from J$

Exciting developments are in store for J$. He plans to share his insights directly in an upcoming post but, in the meantime, here are some highlights. The new curation website created in collaboration with the Motley Fool is on the verge of launching, set to offer original video content featuring J$ himself. Readers can expect notification on its debut date soon.

In addition, J$ has initiated an online store, PFSwagger.com, aimed at promoting personal finance through apparel. This venture supports fellow financial bloggers while delivering engaging content about financial independence in a stylish format.

Elevate Influencer Conference

For finance professionals and bloggers, the virtual conference “Elevate Influencer” is an event not to be missed. Designed for personal finance voices reaching People of Color, the event occurs on August 13th, and attendees can join for free, courtesy of sponsorship from the Motley Fool. This conference serves as a platform to better understand the financial challenges experienced by underrepresented communities and the role that influencers can play in addressing them.

Take Control of Your Finances Course

This week, J$ embarked on Alan Donegan’s free course titled “Take Control of Your Finances.” Known for his work with Popup Business School, Donegan, alongside his wife Katie, has designed an eight-week program focusing on financial independence. Though it began recently, latecomers can still enroll. The course covers various topics, from net worth and cash flow to debt management and investing.

• Week 1: Net Worth - August 3rd
• Week 2: Cash Flow - August 10th
• Week 3: Money Beliefs - August 17th
• Week 4: Debt - August 24th
• Week 5: Couples and Family Finance - August 31st
• Week 6: Investing - September 7th
• Week 7: FIRE Principles - September 14th
• Week 8: Future Planning - September 21st

This structured program provides foundational knowledge that may appeal to those new to financial independence or anyone seeking to reinforce their understanding.

Life Design Course Insights

Currently, J$ is also taking a Life Design course offered by Jillian Johnsrud, the host of the Everyday Courage Podcast. Each session attended leads to impactful realizations about not just finance but the interplay of money with overall life balance. Johnsrud will soon offer additional classes focused on money mastery and personal boundaries, inviting participants to invest in their self-development journey.

It’s important to clarify that no affiliate relationship exists with these courses; the recommendations stem from genuine enthusiasm for valuable financial education resources available to the community.

Exciting Job Benefits Arrive!

In potentially life-altering news, J$ received an offer for a long-term contract with his employer, complete with benefits—a rarity for part-time employees. This offer is particularly significant given the breadth of options listed, notably healthcare and a 401(k) plan.

Previously uninsured, J$ now has the prospect of a health plan covering him and his wife, although the anticipated cost of the lowest tier high-deductible plan stands at a staggering $8,400 per annum. Given this figure, evaluating alternative options, such as Covered California, may be prudent.

On the retirement savings front, an immediate review of the 401(k) plan's intricate details was made. J$ has engaged directly with the plan’s administrator, aiming to gather additional insights and demonstrate proactive interest before even starting the job.

As onboarding progresses, further details on healthcare options and retirement plans will be shared, offering a glimpse into how these changes will shape J$’s financial landscape over time. Wishing all for a fulfilling and productive week ahead!

– Joel

*Typewriter image courtesy of Markus Winkler.