Videos

Paying for college is a marathon, not a sprint. Start planning early, be creative, and trust in God's provision. This week, sit down with your high school student and create a scholarship search plan. Commit to finding and applying for at least one scholarship a week. It's measurable, actionable, and…

When facing financial troubles, remember to cry out to God and focus on your true wealth in Christ. Be a good steward of what you have, and remember the source of your wealth in times of blessing. Stay humble, use your resources wisely, and be generous. Most importantly, share your…

Did you know that you can use your faith to navigate financial hardship and uncertainty? Ever wondered how you can praise God and give Him glory during times of financial blessing? In this episode of the Ask Ralph Show, host Ralph Estep Jr. explores how to use faith to thrive…

Even in times of scarcity, we're called to manage our resources wisely. This may involve creating a strict budget, finding additional income sources, or making tough decisions about expenses. Don't hesitate to seek financial counseling or assistance from your church community. Remember, there's no shame in asking for help—it's what…

In times of financial hardship, it's easy to feel like we're losing everything. But no economic downturn can touch our true wealth when our identity is in Christ, and our treasures are in heaven. Remember, where your treasure is, your heart will also be there. #Faith #SpiritualWealth #TrueRiches #HeavenlyTreasures

Retirement planning isn't just about securing our own future; it's about ensuring we can continue to bless others and further God's Kingdom. With diligent planning and wise resource management, we can remain financially stable and capable of giving and serving well into our retirement. #RetirementPlanning #LifelongGiving #FaithfulStewardship #ServingOthers

Deciding when to start taking Social Security benefits is complex and requires careful consideration of factors like your health, family longevity, other retirement income sources, and whether you plan to work in retirement. Remember to consider your spouse's benefits for strategies to maximize your combined income. #SocialSecurity #RetirementPlanning

Are you curious about how much you'll receive from Social Security when you retire? Feeling uncertain about planning for a financially secure future? In this episode of the Ask Ralph Show, host Ralph Estep Jr. dives into the essential topic of estimating Social Security benefits. He guides listeners through using…

Social security is a financial safety net woven from our contributions throughout our working lives. The size and strength of this net depend on how much we've contributed and when we choose to start receiving benefits. Plan wisely to ensure a steady income in retirement. #SocialSecurity #RetirementPlanning #FinancialSafetyNet #WiseInvestments

By freeing up resources through financial fasting, we can support local charities and help neighbors in need. Imagine the impact if we all used our saved money to make a tangible difference in our communities, truly living out our faith. #CommunityGiving #FaithInAction #FinancialFasting #HelpingOthers

Are you feeling the weight of financial struggles and seeking a way to grow closer to God? Feeling overwhelmed by materialism and unsure how to manage your finances spiritually? In this episode of the Ask Ralph Show, host Ralph Estep Jr. delves into the concept of “Financial Fasting.” He explains…

Financial fasting helps us break free from materialism, reminding us that our worth lies in who we are in Christ, not in what we own. By fasting from spending, we create space to focus on what truly matters and learn to rely on God for our contentment. #FaithOverMaterialism #FinancialFasting #SpiritualGrowth

Set a specific, manageable timeframe, like a week or two, to give up a particular expense. Whether eating out, online shopping or your daily latte, redirecting those resources can significantly bolster your savings or pay down debt. #FinancialFast #SmartSavings #DebtFreeJourney #MoneyManagement

Maintaining organized financial documents for three to seven years is essential. Be honest on your tax returns and avoid the temptation to fudge numbers. If uncertain, consult a professional to avoid future problems. #FinancialRecords #TaxAdvice #HonestTaxes #ConsultAPro #StayOrganized

Don't miss IRS deadlines—request an extension in writing if needed. The IRS is generally cooperative, but you must have your records ready. Knowing your rights as a taxpayer, outlined in the Taxpayer Bill of Rights, can help you confidently navigate the audit process. #TaxpayerRights #IRSDeadlines #AuditHelp #TaxAdvice

Are you dreading the thought of an IRS audit? Feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do? In this episode of the Ask Ralph Show, host Ralph Estep Jr. tackles the nerve-wracking topic of IRS audits head-on. He provides listeners with a step-by-step guide on how to navigate the audit…

Ignoring IRS notices won't make the problem go away. Many wait until the final lien notice before seeking help, which can lead to severe consequences like property liens and wage attachments. Address the issue promptly to avoid deeper trouble. #IRSNotices #TaxHelp #FinancialAdvice #ActNow

When you have excellent credit, lenders view you as a low-risk borrower, often meaning they offer lower interest rates. Think of it as a VIP discount on borrowed money. For example, if you're buying a $200,000 home with a 30-year mortgage, excellent credit could secure an interest rate of 3.5%,…

Did you know that insurance companies use your credit score in many states to determine your insurance premiums? People with higher credit scores tend to file fewer claims, so they are rewarded with lower rates on auto, homeowners, and even life insurance. You could save hundreds of dollars a year…

Great credit can make the approval process less stressful when you need a loan or a new credit card. Lenders are more likely to approve your applications when they see a history of responsible credit use. This not only eases your mind but can also save you money by allowing…

Do you feel trapped with a low credit score, no matter your efforts? Uncover the secret benefits of excellent credit and see how it can revolutionize your finances, unlocking opportunities and saving you thousands. In this episode of the Ask Ralph Show, host Ralph Estep Jr. talks about the power…

In this episode of the Ask Ralph Podcast, host Ralph Estep Jr. delves into the critical topic of online identity protection from a Christian perspective. Ralph shares practical steps and biblical insights to help you safeguard your digital life. Whether you're a small business owner or a regular internet user,…

Phishing attempts are more sophisticated than ever. Be on the lookout for emails or messages that ask for personal information—they are likely scams. Legitimate companies will never request sensitive data via email. Always verify by contacting the company directly using a known, verified number or website. Don't trust the contact…

Protecting your identity is about more than just security—it's about stewardship. Our financial resources are gifts from God, meant to support our families, churches, and those in need. By safeguarding our identities, we ensure these resources are used for His purposes. Additionally, as Christians, we're called to be trustworthy. Being…