Videos

Letting go can feel impossible when you struggle with real struggles, like providing for your family. It's easy to say, but hard to practice when worrying about the next meal. Finding peace in these moments takes courage, but sometimes, the real answer is trusting and letting go. #LetGoAndTrust #FaithInHardTimes #OvercomingChallenges…

How do you truly live out your Christian faith through your finances? In this episode of the Ask Ralph show, host Ralph Estep Jr. discusses how to live out one's Christian faith through financial decisions. He revisits an interview with Paul Granger, highlighting radical life choices made to follow God's…

In this episode of the Ask Ralph Show, Ralph Estep Jr. sheds light on an important question: why does your credit score matter even in retirement? Through the story of two retirees, Ralph demonstrates the surprising ways a credit score can impact your financial well-being long after you stop working.…

As you retire, your credit score becomes more critical. With less time and income to recover from financial missteps, maintaining a solid score can protect your peace of mind and help you avoid costly mistakes. Don't overlook this key element of financial health! #RetirementPlanning #CreditScore #FinancialWellness

Opening new credit accounts can significantly lower your credit score, especially when planning big purchases like a home or car. Jerry learned the hard way—circling for credit dropped his score, making securing the financing he needed harder. Be mindful of when and how often you apply for new credit! #CreditScore…

Boosting your credit score takes time and patience, but the long-term rewards are worth the effort. Like Tom and Jerry, your financial choices today can mean the difference between enjoying a stress-free retirement or facing ongoing challenges. Start the marathon now for a better future! #CreditScore #FinancialPlanning #RetirementGoals #MarathonNotSprint #FinancialFreedom

One smart strategy to consider is a Roth conversion, where you gradually convert traditional IRA funds to a Roth IRA. While you’ll pay taxes on the conversion, your heirs will benefit later as the money grows tax-free and can be distributed without any tax burden. It’s a gift they’ll truly…

For those with charitable inclinations, a charitable remainder trust can be a powerful tool. By naming it as your IRA beneficiary, you can provide income for your heirs for a set time, with the remainder going to charity. It’s a win-win that also reduces the tax burden on your beneficiaries!…

In this episode of the Ask Ralph Show, Ralph Estep Jr. discusses the potential tax burdens of inherited IRAs and how to protect your heirs from overwhelming financial obligations. Ralph shares actionable strategies, including Roth conversions, life insurance, and charitable remainder trusts, to help you minimize taxes and ensure your…

Consider using your IRA distributions to fund a life insurance policy. Why? The death benefit from life insurance is generally tax-free for your beneficiaries, giving them a lump sum without the hassle of income tax or required minimum distributions. It’s a smart way to protect and maximize your legacy! #LifeInsurance…

It’s important to know that creditors have the legal right to be paid from an estate before any assets are distributed to heirs. If you're navigating estate planning or dealing with one, remember this to avoid surprises. Protecting your heirs starts with understanding how debts are handled. #EstatePlanning #DebtAfterDeath #CreditorRights…

Open financial communication and proper estate planning are crucial, yet many don’t consider it until they’re faced with it. It’s not just about safeguarding your assets; it’s about sparing your loved ones from unnecessary stress during an already difficult time. Planning means protecting them from the hardship that can follow…

Contrary to what some believe, debts don’t vanish when you pass away. They become part of your estate. While heirs typically aren’t responsible for your debts, cosigners or joint account holders will still be liable. It’s important to understand how this works to protect your loved ones. #DebtManagement #EstatePlanning #FinancialResponsibility…

In this episode of the Ask Ralph Show, Ralph Estep Jr. addresses a crucial but often overlooked topic: what happens to your debts after you die. Ralph explores how debts are handled post-mortem, offering insights into the responsibilities of heirs and the impact on your estate. Whether you’re planning your…

One big advantage of writing checks is avoiding transaction fees that often come with credit card payments. Many landlords, small businesses, and individuals still prefer checks for bill payments, making them a practical and cost-effective choice. Keep more of your money by opting for checks when possible! #TransactionFees #CheckWriting #SaveMoney…

If you take one thing away, let it be this: organization is crucial regarding taxes. I deal with audits and recreating records daily, and the more organized you are, the smoother your tax return process will be—even if you’re never audited. Keep your documents in order and avoid unnecessary stress!…

Did you know checks offer a powerful layer of fraud protection? They’re harder to forge and give you more time to spot fraudulent activity. Plus, with checks, you control when the money leaves your account, making them a valuable tool for cash management. Don't overlook this old-school option! #FraudProtection #CashManagement…

In this episode of the Ask Ralph Show, Ralph Estep Jr. delves into why writing checks remains relevant even in today's digital world. Ralph presents nine compelling reasons to keep using checks, highlighting their unique advantages through engaging client stories. Whether you're skeptical about the need for checks or simply…

It takes about three months to get your spending plan where you want it to be, so don’t give up! Make sure you account for your general income, fixed and flexible expenses, and yes—include some fun money. Keep refining your plan, and soon it will work for you. #SpendingPlan #BudgetingJourney…

For couples, putting all the cards on the table is essential and creating a calm, non-judgmental environment for financial discussions. Set the stage with nice food and drinks, be open and honest, and work together to set money goals. It’s the foundation for making a solid financial plan and moving…

In this episode of the Ask Ralph Show, Ralph Estep Jr. sits down with Karen Hackman, a couples financial expert, to explore effective strategies for managing finances together. Karen offers practical advice for couples struggling with financial alignment, providing insights on overcoming common challenges and building a unified financial strategy.…

Creating a calm, non-judgmental environment is key to building trust in financial discussions. When people feel safe, knowing they won’t be judged or criticized for their beliefs or circumstances, it opens the door for honest conversations and growth. Trust is built together, one step at a time. #BuildingTrust #FinancialConversations #SafeSpace…

It’s okay to start small! Reach out to one or two trusted friends from your church, be vulnerable about your financial challenges, and explore the idea of meeting regularly to discuss finances and faith. You might be surprised by who’s interested in joining you on this journey. #FinancialSupport #FaithAndFinances #StartSmall…

Consider approaching your church leadership about starting a financial stewardship group. Many churches are eager to support such initiatives but need someone to take the lead. Your pastor or small group coordinator may welcome the idea, knowing that people seek help. #FinancialStewardship #FaithAndFinances #ChurchCommunity #TakeTheLead #SupportInitiatives