Author: Teresa Chew

Taking time to save for what’s importantTaking time to save for what’s important

April 24, 2024April 24, 2024| Teresa ChewTeresa Chew| 0 Comment| 12:00 am

Members Sean and Amy B. are intentionally saving for what’s important in their life. Keeping track of exactly where their money goes is important to the couple’s budgeting success and their ability to save up for their goals.

Sean and Amy first became interested in Canopy after driving by a billboard. They were in the middle of a frustrating experience with their previous financial institution and were intrigued by Canopy’s advertisement for its Kasasa Checking accounts.

With the Canopy branch on Francis Ave. in the vicinity of their northside home, they decided to check it out. Both of them appreciate the welcoming atmosphere at the branch.

“Every time I come in to the branch, I get a warm, friendly feeling. And, it isn’t just the coffee. The atmosphere just feels warm and welcome,” Sean said.

At the end of their first month being members, Sean and Amy were pleasantly surprised with the dividends they earned and decided to save those extra funds for one of their goals.

Sean and Amy’s savings strategy? “A dime here and a nickel there,” Amy said.

Using the envelope savings method, Sean and Amy set aside a chunk of change at the beginning of the month for each of their spending categories. If they end up spending less than the allotted amount, they take the extra cash and put it towards remodeling their home.

Five years ago, they found the perfect home in north Spokane in a “neat neighborhood”. They love that their neighbors are from a mix of generations.

“Mostly everybody knows each other,” Sean said.

Now that they have their home, they are building up their savings for home improvement projects.

“Our home is over a hundred years old with floors and an unfinished attic that need some love. That means we need to take time to save up,” Amy said.

When the couple isn’t saving up for their next goals, they keep busy with a variety of passions. Both write fiction and are creating stories for a book series and a podcast.

Sean and Amy’s focus on saving and intentional budgeting allows them to enjoy the things that matter to them.

Canopy Credit Union | Importance of Saving

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What Medical Conditions Qualify For Social Security Disability?What Medical Conditions Qualify For Social Security Disability?

April 23, 2024April 23, 2024| Teresa ChewTeresa Chew| 0 Comment| 12:00 am

Being unable to work due to medical conditions can be very stressful, worrying about how to maintain your life and pay the bills, as well as medical costs. Social Security Disability insurance (SSDI) is there to ensure people do need to find themselves in those situations, but what conditions qualify for SSDI benefits? 

While there is no set and firm answers regarding what conditions are covered by social security disability or not, there are guides and a baseline definition that can act as a rule of thumb:

SSDI recognizes an illness or injury that prevents a person from working for at least a year or that will likely cause death. 

Social Security Disability & the Administration Blue Book

As mentioned, there is a guide the Social Security Administration uses and people can look through to know whether they qualify for SSDI benefits: The Social Security Blue Book. Officially known as the Disability Evaluation Under Social Security, it lists the medical impairments the SSA considers severe enough to prevent someone from working and lists the medical criteria for determining if a person can receive disability benefits.

You can find the Social Security Blue Book here:

Disability Evaluation Under Social Security

Medical Conditions that Qualify for Social Security Disability

If a condition is listed in the Blue Book, it automatically meets the definition set by the SSA and qualifies a person for social security disability insurance. Here are some of the impairments and conditions listed that automatically qualify someone:

  1. Musculoskeletal System: Conditions that affect the bones and muscles, such as back injuries and other dysfunctions of the joints and bones.
  2. Special Senses and Speech: Conditions affecting vision, hearing, and speech.
  3. Respiratory Disorders: Such as asthma, chronic pulmonary insufficiency, and cystic fibrosis.
  4. Cardiovascular System: Including chronic heart failure, coronary artery disease, and recurrent arrhythmias.
  5. Digestive System: Conditions like liver disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and gastrointestinal hemorrhaging.
  6. Genitourinary Disorders: Kidney diseases and other conditions related to the reproductive and urinary systems.
  7. Hematological Disorders: Disorders of the blood, such as anemia, hemophilia, and bone marrow failures.
  8. Skin Disorders: Eczema, burns, and other dermatological conditions.
  9. Endocrine Disorders: Conditions related to hormone-producing glands, such as thyroid, adrenal, and pituitary gland disorders.
  10. Congenital Disorders that Affect Multiple Body Systems: For instance, Down syndrome.
  11. Neurological: Epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and cerebral palsy, among others.
  12. Mental Disorders: Such as schizophrenia, autism, depression, anxiety, and intellectual disorders.
  13. Cancer (Malignant Neoplastic Diseases).
  14. Immune System Disorders: Including lupus, HIV/AIDS, and rheumatoid arthritis.
     

It’s important to remember that only being diagnosed doesn’t guarantee approval for disability benefits and that the SSA requires specific medical evidence, and documentation before benefits are approved. 

Secure Your Medical Benefits 

The application process for SSDI is complex, and many applications are denied the first time. When that happens, a person can pursue the appeals process, which many find success with, especially if legal representation has been secured.

Here at Marken Law Group, we understand how stressful getting your rightful SSI benefits can be and don’t want to add to your plate during such an uneasy time. We have represented hundreds of claimants in Washington, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and California to obtain what is rightfully theirs. We focus on your individual needs rather than treat all cases as the same, bringing our extensive experience to help guide you through. 

If you want to better ensure you get the SSDI benefits you’re owed, contact us below and work with social security attorneys who know how to navigate the system and fight for you. 

Marken Law

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SEO: Ways to Improve Your Website’s Search Engine RankingSEO: Ways to Improve Your Website’s Search Engine Ranking

February 28, 2024February 28, 2024| Teresa ChewTeresa Chew| 0 Comment| 12:00 am

A common myth is that SEO merely consists of inserting content with keywords. Our approach involves a more comprehensive approach to search engine marketing that ensures you are located when potential customers are ready to buy.
In contrast to PPC advertising, SEO is a long-term strategy that delivers a return on investment for periods of weeks, months, and even years after you cease payments. Such is the actual benefit of SEO services.

Keyword Investigation


Keyword research is a crucial element of website SEO and is a practice those in the field of digital marketing in Augmentum-Digital have perfected. Not only does it aid search engines optimise content, but it also helps comprehend the purpose of searches by your target audience and the best approach to reach them best. There are many reasons why researching keywords is so crucial. Still, the most fundamental is that it determines what keywords and phrases your target audience will use when looking for a particular offering or item on the internet.
Whether you are running an e-commerce business, or just wish to get discovered by locals searching for lawn care service, the right keywords will make all the difference in your success. Using inappropriate keywords can result in an incongruity between your content and your audience’s requirements, eventually leading to low conversion rates and a less effective marketing campaign.
Keywords should also be thoughtfully chosen for pertinence, competitiveness, and the user’s experience. While it is tempting to choose keywords with high search volume with significant search traffic, this can often prove unproductive, as they might not lead to conversions and could pose ranking difficulties.

On-Page SEO


On-site SEO aims to guarantee that your web pages are optimized to appear in search results for specific keywords. This involves several processes, including content optimisation, optimizing title tags, and meta description optimisation. These elements are vital to the effectiveness of your search engine optimization efforts, as they can significantly impact your position in search engine results.
SEO can assist your business reach customers ready to buy by focusing on highly relevant keywords. They also employ efficient tactics to build trust and reputation for your brand. Utilizing diverse platforms, such as social networks and content creation, can help you developing your brand’s image and stimulate expansion.
SEO is an important part of any online marketing strategy, but it can be complex. Selecting a suitable company can make all the difference in your results. SEO has a team of dedicated professionals who specialise exclusively in SEO and are constantly keeping up with the most recent trends and algorithms. They take a holistic marketing approach, integrating various tactics for optimal efficiency and ROI.
SEO is an optimal method to promote your online presence and draw in relevant visitors to your site. It enables you to compete with the big players in your and get more visibility on search engines. Knowing understanding effective strategies is essential; an expert can help you achieve optimal outcomes.

Building Backlinks


Link building is acquiring links to your website from other websites. These are known as backlinks; having more can help you rank higher in search engines. Though it might appear uncomplicated, managing practical and ethical link-building can be difficult for many business owners.

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Kaua’i House Buyers’ GuideKaua’i House Buyers’ Guide

November 10, 2023November 10, 2023| Teresa ChewTeresa Chew| 0 Comment| 12:00 am

Those who purchase a house for the first time will face numerous difficulties not just having to understand the process of purchasing a home but likewise needing to understand which type of loan matches them the most. Suggestions from well indicating loved ones can be valuable, but buying a house is a significant monetary commitment and you would be wise to inform yourself on the home buying procedure before taking the initial step.

If the representative has no time to talk about the home buying process with you, then keep looking till you find one who will. A home mortgage broker or lending institution can also offer you important info when you choose to purchase a home.

The questions you ought to ask the real estate representative or home loan broker consist of how to make a deal on a home you wish to purchase and the specifics associated with between making your initial offer and the last acceptance of the offer from the seller. Inquire about the settlement costs, the down payment quantity that you might need, and the length of time included between the approval of your offer and the final closing date.

Ensure you understand your credit circumstance and what it suggests to you as far as requesting a mortgage. Deposit requirements and the rate of interest you will receive are straight associated with your credit score. You must know precisely what is on your credit report before starting the house buying process.

Purchasing a house can be difficult at times and that a calm attitude and the ability to cope with any problems that might occur calmly will make the purchase of your very first home a more pleasant experience. Offer yourself the info you take the guidance and require of specialists when you begin the house buying procedure.

When purchasing a Kauai home, this company is very helpful:

 

Purchasing a house can be stressful at times and that a calm attitude and the capability to cope with any concerns that might occur calmly will make the purchase of your very first home a more pleasant experience. Offer yourself the information you require and take the guidance of specialists when you start the home buying procedure.

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Foundation Repair in Texas: Preserving the Stability of HomesFoundation Repair in Texas: Preserving the Stability of Homes

June 30, 2023June 30, 2023| Teresa ChewTeresa Chew| 0 Comment| 12:00 am

 

With its diverse soil composition and extreme weather conditions, Texas is no stranger to foundation problems. Maintaining a solid foundation cannot be overstated, as it provides the stability and integrity necessary for homes to withstand the test of time. This article explores the significance of foundation repair in Texas, examines common causes of foundation issues, highlights warning signs, and offers insights into the solutions available to homeowners.

Foundation Repair in Texas

  • Challenges Posed by Texas Soils 

The unique soil conditions in Texas present significant challenges for homeowners. Expansive clay soils, which shrink during dry spells and expand during periods of high moisture, can exert tremendous pressure on foundations, leading to cracks, settling, and structural instability. Moreover, Texas experiences frequent weather extremes, including droughts and heavy rains, further exacerbating the problem. Understanding the nature of Texas soils is crucial for addressing foundation issues effectively.

  • Recognizing Warning Signs 

Detecting early warning signs of foundation problems is vital for prompt intervention. Common indicators include visible cracks in walls, floors, or ceilings; doors and windows that stick or no longer close properly; sloping or uneven floors; and gaps between walls or windows. Homeowners should be vigilant in observing these signs and consult with professionals if any issues are identified. Early detection can help prevent further damage and mitigate repair costs.

  • Professional Foundation Repair Solutions 

Foundation repair in Texas requires the expertise of professionals familiar with the challenges posed by the local soil conditions. Several effective solutions are available to address foundation issues. One common method is underpinning, which involves installing piers or helical piles deep into stable soil layers to support the foundation. Another technique is hydraulic slab leveling, which corrects uneven concrete surfaces. These solutions are tailored to the specific needs of each property, ensuring a stable foundation for years to come.

  • Preventive Measures 

While foundation repairs are necessary for existing problems, preventive measures can help homeowners protect their homes from future damage. Adequate moisture management around the foundation is crucial. This can be achieved through proper drainage systems, such as gutters and downspouts, to redirect Water away from the foundation. Consistent watering practices for vegetation near the house can also help regulate soil moisture levels. Regular inspections and promptly addressing minor issues can prevent major foundation problems.

  • Selecting a Reliable Foundation Repair Company

Choosing a reputable and experienced foundation repair company is vital to ensure quality workmanship and reliable results. Homeowners should consider factors such as the company's track record, credentials, and customer reviews. Seeking multiple quotes, requesting references, and inquiring about warranties or guarantees are essential to making an informed decision. Homeowners can have confidence in the foundation repair Process by selecting a trustworthy professional.

  • Cost Considerations

Foundation repair costs vary depending on the severity of the issue and the chosen repair method. Homeowners need to consider the long-term value of investing in quality repairs. Ignoring foundation problems or opting for temporary fixes can lead to more extensive damage and higher repair costs in the future. Homeowners can safeguard their homes and potentially save on significant expenses by addressing foundation issues promptly and employing professional repair services.

Conclusion 

Given the challenges of soil conditions and weather patterns, foundation repair is a crucial aspect of homeownership in Texas. Recognizing warning signs, seeking professional assistance, and implementing preventive measures are essential for maintaining a stable foundation. By partnering with reputable foundation repair companies, homeowners can ensure the longevity and value of their homes while enjoying peace of mind in the face of Texas's unique soil and weather challenges.

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