Ask Ralph - Christian Finance
500 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 9 hours ago - ★★★★ - 7 ratingsAre you a Christian longing to honor God in every aspect of your life, including your finances? The Ask Ralph Podcast is your guide to finding financial freedom, making wise money decisions, and aligning your resources with your faith. Your host, Ralph Estep, Jr., brings a unique combination of expertise and genuine experience to the table. He's an accountant, a business coach, a podcast host, an author, a farmer – but above all, a husband, father, and a man seeking to follow Jesus wholeheartedly.
Ralph has been through the highs and lows of managing money - he's made mistakes, learned powerful lessons, and wants to share that journey with you. Expect a refreshing blend of practical advice and Biblical principles. We'll cover everything from creating a rock-solid budget and ditching debt to building ethical businesses and exploring the transformative power of generous giving. Whether you're a business owner yearning to integrate your faith into your work, or simply a person desiring wise stewardship of what you've been given, this podcast is for you. Get ready to ditch financial stress, gain clarity and confidence, and use your resources to fulfill God's calling in your life.
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Episodes
Five Tax Blunders That Can Leave You Broke
January 27, 2024 14:00 - 9 minutes - 7.84 MBIn this podcast episode, Ralph Estep Jr. discusses the five tax blunders that can leave you broke. He highlights the importance of keeping accurate records, taking advantage of tax credits and deductions, planning for taxes throughout the year, seeking professional help when needed, and not ignoring tax-saving opportunities for your business. By avoiding these blunders and implementing smart financial strategies, you can achieve financial stability, lower your taxes, and grow your business. ...
Purchasing versus Leasing Your Next Vehicle
January 26, 2024 14:00 - 10 minutes - 8.37 MBIn this episode of Ask Ralph, the podcast dedicated to answering finance-related questions, host Ralph Estep, Jr. explores the topic of financing versus leasing when it comes to purchasing a car. Ralph then delves into the differences between financing and leasing a car purchase. LISTEN NOW Please share our Podcast with all your friends and family! Submit your questions or ideas for future shows - email us at [email protected] or leave a voicemail message on our podcast page Leave A ...
Beneficial Ownership Reporting - What you need to know!
January 25, 2024 14:00 - 11 minutes - 8.97 MBIn this episode of The Ask Ralph Show, host Ralph Estep Jr. explores the topic of beneficial ownership reporting, providing valuable insights into who truly owns and controls businesses. These regulations, implemented by FinCen to combat money laundering and enhance transparency, aim to uncover the individuals behind corporate structures and shell companies. By disclosing beneficial ownership information, national security efforts are strengthened as it helps detect terrorism financing, prev...
Crazy Tax Mistakes and How to Fix Them
January 24, 2024 14:00 - 8 minutes - 6.48 MBJoin Ralph Estep, Jr. on the Ask Ralph Show as he explores crazy tax mistakes and how to fix them. From deducting pets as dependents to inflating charitable contributions, these stories highlight the importance of staying within tax laws. Practical advice includes maintaining meticulous records, accurately reporting income, and seeking professional assistance when needed. Listeners are encouraged to review their returns for errors and seek help if unsure. The episode emphasizes the signific...
Tips for Staying Safe Online and Balancing Your Digital Life
January 23, 2024 14:00 - 11 minutes - 9.19 MBIn this episode of the 'Ask Ralph' podcast, host Ralph Estep Jr. discusses the importance of staying safe online in the digital age. He begins by asking listeners if they are confident that they are doing everything they can to protect their personal information online. Ralph emphasizes that with the convenience of living in a digital world comes risks and potential threats. He advises listeners to ensure that their devices and accounts are secure by regularly updating software, using stro...
There's Hope for Getting a Mortgage After Bankruptcy
January 22, 2024 14:00 - 8 minutes - 7.57 MBIn this episode of Ask Ralph, the host, Ralph Estep Jr., discusses the topic of "Buying a Home After Bankruptcy." He acknowledges that declaring bankruptcy can have a significant impact on one's finances, including a drop in credit score and its presence on the credit report for up to 10 years. However, he reassures listeners that it is not impossible to buy a home after bankruptcy; it just requires time and effort to rebuild credit and financial stability. LISTEN NOW Please share our Pod...
Spiritual Reasons for Personal Frugality - Poor in Life - Rich in Spirit
January 21, 2024 14:00 - 12 minutes - 11.3 MBJoin Ralph Estep, Jr., on today’s show where he explores the topic “Poor in Life, Rich in Spirit” In our fast-paced and consumer-driven world, it's easy to get caught up in the pursuit of material wealth and possessions. However, there is a deeper spiritual dimension to the way we handle our finances and embrace a frugal lifestyle. Today, we'll explore the biblical perspective on personal frugality and discuss ways to achieve it in our daily lives. LISTEN NOW Please share our Podcast with...
Avoiding "The Mailbox is Full"
January 20, 2024 14:00 - 14 minutes - 13 MBIn today's episode of Ask Ralph, Ralph Estep, Jr., discussed the crucial importance of never allowing your customer to hear the dreaded message, "The person you are calling has a voicemail box which is full." He explores alternative solutions for small businesses that rely heavily on their cell phones as their main point of contact. He highlights the frustration that both customers and business owners experience when important calls go unanswered due to a full voicemail box. To avoid this si...
Building An Emergency Savings Fund
January 19, 2024 14:00 - 8 minutes - 8.02 MBJoin Ralph Estep, Jr., as he discusses why building an emergency savings plan is crucial for financial security and peace of mind. Living paycheck to paycheck without savings leaves individuals vulnerable to unexpected events like job loss, medical emergencies, or car repairs. By building an emergency savings fund, you create a financial cushion to protect yourself from these situations. The first step is setting a savings goal, ideally three to six months' worth of living expenses. Break t...
Tax Implications of Selling Your Home
January 18, 2024 14:00 - 7 minutes - 6.65 MBJoin Ralph Estep, Jr. as he discusses the important topic of reporting the sale of a primary residence. He provides information on the essential documents needed for accurate reporting, such as the closing statement, purchase and sales agreement, home improvement records, property tax records, and mortgage and loan information. Ralph highlights key points related to capital gains tax, including eligibility for a capital gains tax exclusion and partial exclusions based on specific circumstanc...
Wacky Business Story Headlines
January 17, 2024 14:00 - 8 minutes - 7.83 MBIn this episode of Ask Ralph, host Ralph Estep, Jr. explores the wackiest business news stories that have made headlines. These stories remind us that entrepreneurship is full of surprises and that truth can often be stranger than fiction. The first story highlights the Million-Dollar Potato Salad campaign launched on Kickstarter in 2014. Zack Brown raised over a million dollars from thousands of backers for his simple potato salad recipe. While some criticized it as a waste of money, other...
Best Accounting Software for 2024
January 16, 2024 14:00 - 12 minutes - 11.8 MBIn this episode of Ask Ralph, host Ralph Estep, Jr. discusses the best technology for handling accounting tasks in small businesses and the benefits of partnering with a professional accounting firm. Ralph emphasizes that technology has revolutionized the way businesses are managed, including accounting. He highlights four popular accounting software options: QuickBooks, Xero, FreshBooks, and Zoho Books. LISTEN NOW Please share our Podcast with all your friends and family! Submit your ...
Using Your Core Compentencies to Manage Business Success
January 15, 2024 14:00 - 9 minutes - 8.45 MBIn this episode of Ask Ralph, host Ralph Estep Jr. addresses the common struggle of finding motivation as a small business owner and offers a solution: focusing on core competencies instead of chasing after the competition. Ralph emphasizes that getting caught up in analyzing competitors can drain motivation and lead us away from our true strengths. Instead, he suggests finding motivation by understanding and harnessing our core competencies – the unique strengths, skills, and resources that...
Using Prayer to Navigate Financial Hard Times
January 14, 2024 14:00 - 8 minutes - 8.05 MBIn this episode of Ask Ralph, host Ralph Estep, Jr. explores the topic of navigating stormy financial times with faith and prayer. Ralph emphasizes that life can bring unexpected storms, especially when it comes to finances. Job loss, economic downturns, and unforeseen expenses can leave individuals feeling anxious and uncertain. However, he reminds listeners that they are not alone in these challenging times. Ralph highlights the power of faith in providing strength, hope, and resilience du...
Estate Planning Chat with Attorney Kevin Baird
January 13, 2024 15:00 - 43 minutes - 39.8 MBJoin Ralph Estep Jr. on today's show as he engages in a conversation with Attorney Kevin Baird from the law firm of Baird, Mandalas, Brockstedt & Frederico. Ralph and Kevin have an insightful discussion about estate planning and the essential documents that we should all have prepared, not only for when we pass away but also in case we become unable to make decisions for ourselves. Kevin debunks common misconceptions surrounding estate planning and clarifies the costs associated with these d...
Innocent Spouse Relief
January 12, 2024 15:00 - 9 minutes - 8.82 MBThe innocent spouse rules with the Internal Revenue Service are provisions designed to protect taxpayers from the tax liabilities of their current or former spouse. In this episode of the Ask Ralph podcast, host Ralph Estep, Jr. explores this crucial area of tax law and its impact on individuals facing challenging situations. LISTEN NOW Please share our Podcast with all your friends and family! Submit your questions or ideas for future shows - email us at [email protected] or leave ...
Deferred Interest Loans - Don't Get Pinched!
January 11, 2024 15:00 - 9 minutes - 8.82 MBDeferred interest loans have become increasingly popular, particularly in the retail sector, as they allow consumers to make purchases without incurring any interest charges for a specified period. While these loans offer flexibility and the opportunity to build credit, there are potential risks that borrowers need to be aware of. Join Ralph Estep, Jr., as he gets into the details of these loans so you don't get pinched! LISTEN NOW Please share our Podcast with all your friends and fam...
Getting Ready for Tax Time
January 10, 2024 15:00 - 11 minutes - 10.3 MBRalph Estep, Jr. welcomes listeners to another episode of the Ask Ralph podcast, where he delves into taxes and financial matters. In this episode, he focuses on preparing for tax season and provides valuable guidance on finding a professional accountant, gathering necessary documents, and reviewing completed returns for accuracy. Estep emphasizes the benefits of working with a qualified accountant who can navigate complex tax laws, maximize deductions and credits, and provide tax planning ...
7 Ways to Raise Your Credit Score by 200 Points
January 09, 2024 15:00 - 9 minutes - 9.08 MBIn this episode of Ask Ralph, we explore the topic of raising your credit score by 200 points in less than five years. Host Ralph Estep Jr. breaks down the importance of credit scores and shares valuable insights on achieving this goal to improve your credit score. LISTEN NOW Please share our Podcast with all your friends and family! Submit your questions or ideas for future shows - email us at [email protected] or leave a voicemail message on our podcast page Leave A Voicemail Message...
New Years Financial Resolutions
January 08, 2024 15:00 - 11 minutes - 10.7 MBIn the latest episode of the Ask Ralph show, host Ralph Estep, Jr. discusses financial New Year's resolutions for 2024. According to a study from WalletHub, almost half of all Americans plan to make finance-related resolutions in the coming year – a significant increase from last year. However, many individuals anticipate challenges in sticking to their financial plans due to economic uncertainties. LISTEN NOW Please share our Podcast with all your friends and family! Submit your questi...
10 Experiences You Don't Want as a Retiree
January 07, 2024 15:00 - 11 minutes - 10.1 MBIn this episode of the Ask Ralph show, host Ralph Estep, Jr. discusses the retirement anti-bucket list – 10 experiences retirees don't want to encounter. He starts by addressing the misconception that one must work until a specific age or accumulate a certain amount of savings before retiring. With proper planning and guidance from a retirement professional, individuals may discover they can retire sooner or transition into part-time work while maintaining financial stability. LISTEN NOW ...
Saving Money on Your Next Car
January 06, 2024 15:00 - 11 minutes - 10.3 MBToday, we're discussing how to save money on your next car purchase. Whether you're in the market for a new or used vehicle, these tips will help you get the best deal possible. LISTEN NOW Please share our Podcast will all your friends and family! Submit your questions or ideas for future shows - email us at [email protected] or leave a voicemail message on our podcast page Leave A Voicemail Message Like us on Facebook and follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/askralp...
Common Estate Planning Mistakes
January 05, 2024 15:00 - 11 minutes - 10.3 MBToday, we're discussing common estate planning mistakes that you should avoid at all costs. Did you know that two out of three Americans don't have any estate planning documents? That's according to Caring.com’s 2023 Wills and Estate Planning survey. LISTEN NOW Please share our Podcast will all your friends and family! Submit your questions or ideas for future shows - email us at [email protected] or leave a voicemail message on our podcast page Leave A Voicemail Message Like us on F...
IRS Penalty Review - Breaking News!
January 04, 2024 15:00 - 10 minutes - 9.56 MBJoin Ralph Estep, Jr. as he announces IRS updates regarding automatic penalty relief for taxpayers who had balances due in 2020-2021 but did not receive notices, covering eligibility criteria, ensuring address updated to receive refunds, and options if unable to fully pay like payment plans and offers in compromise. Other key points are creating an online IRS account to access tax information, importance of resolving IRS issues before escalation to liens/levies, and sharing the podcast. L...
Starting a Small Business - An interview with Amanda Nauman
January 03, 2024 15:00 - 22 minutes - 20.7 MBAre you considering starting a small business? Join Ralph Estep, Jr. as he interviews Amanda Nauman of Zenliven Wellness. Together, they delve into Amanda's journey as a massage therapist and wellness business owner, shedding light on the challenges she encountered when transitioning from being an employee to running her own venture. Amanda reveals how she established a solid groundwork for her business by collaborating with Saggio Accounting and other experts who helped her navigate unexpec...
Emergency Withdrawals From 401-K Plans - Pros and Cons
January 02, 2024 15:00 - 8 minutes - 7.65 MBRalph Estep, Jr. discusses the pros and cons of emergency withdrawals from 401(k) plans. He highlights that while hardship withdrawals provide immediate funds during crises without repayment requirements, they can deplete retirement savings and incur taxes and penalties. Additionally, emergency withdrawals often lead to an increase in credit card debt due to high-interest rates and potential difficulty in repayment. Ralph suggests alternatives such as creating an emergency fund, utilizing lo...
Inflation Woes - Where Americans Say Their Expenses Have Gone Up
January 01, 2024 15:00 - 10 minutes - 9.63 MBRalph Estep, Jr. addresses the issue of rising inflation in today's episode of the Ask Ralph show. He discusses areas where Americans have seen increased expenses and provides practical tips for saving money during times of inflation. Ralph suggests strategies such as downsizing or finding more affordable housing options, planning meals in advance to avoid impulse purchases, utilizing energy-efficient practices to reduce energy costs, and exploring alternative transportation methods. He emph...
Steps For Withdrawing An Employee Retention Credit Claim
December 31, 2023 15:00 - 11 minutes - 10.1 MBRalph Estep, Jr. discusses the steps for withdrawing an Employee Retention Credit (ERC) claim in today's episode of the Ask Ralph show. He emphasizes the importance of reviewing eligibility criteria, gathering relevant documentation, determining the reason for withdrawal or amendment, and seeking guidance from a qualified tax professional. Ralph advises completing Form 941-X to make changes or withdraw an ERC claim and stresses the need to provide a clear explanation when submitting the form...
Tax Breaks for Seniors
December 30, 2023 15:00 - 9 minutes - 8.34 MBRalph Estep, Jr. discusses the best tax breaks for seniors in today's episode of the Ask Ralph show. He highlights tax-saving opportunities such as the extra standard deduction for seniors over 65, spousal IRA contributions, qualified charitable distributions (QCDs), and the Medicare premium deduction. Ralph also suggests exploring state-specific senior tax benefits, downsizing homes to take advantage of capital gains exclusions, and reviewing eligibility for other credits like the Elderly o...
Self-Employment Tax
December 29, 2023 15:00 - 10 minutes - 9.59 MBIn this episode of the Ask Ralph show, host Ralph Estep, Jr. discusses the important topic of self-employment tax. He explains that self-employment tax is what individuals who work for themselves must pay on their income, including both employer and employee portions of Social Security and Medicare taxes. Ralph provides a step-by-step guide on how to calculate self-employment tax and then explores concrete ways to reduce or avoid paying excessive amounts. These strategies include setting up ...
IRS Related Identity Theft
December 28, 2023 15:00 - 9 minutes - 9.14 MBRalph Estep, Jr. discusses IRS related identity theft in today's episode of the Ask Ralph show. He emphasizes the importance of responding promptly if the IRS contacts you regarding suspected identity theft and provides steps to take, including contacting the IRS directly and completing Form 14039 - Identity Theft Affidavit. Ralph also highlights the need to protect personal information, monitor credit reports regularly, and be cautious of scams and phishing attempts. He suggests using stron...
Mortgage & Economic Update - An Interview with Jason Bochniak
December 27, 2023 15:00 - 42 minutes - 38.6 MBLooking for a mortgage? Looking for the best rates? Join Ralph Estep, Jr., as he interviews mortgage expert Jason Bockniak. A great discussion about the mortgage market and the overall economy. Jason dives deep into historical trends and points out some concerning signs he sees in overall economic trends and how that may impact the rates on mortgages. This is a much listen to episode if you are interested in learning about some real interesing parallels between today's economy and the late 1...
Three Reasons To Take Social Security Early
December 26, 2023 15:00 - 10 minutes - 9.51 MBIt's a tough choice - When should I take my social security? Let Ralph Estep, Jr., share with you some concrete ideas about the right age to select to take your benefits and the potential pitfalls of making the wrong decision for your specific situation. LISTEN NOW Please share our Podcast will all your friends and family! Submit your questions or ideas for future shows - email us at [email protected] or leave a voicemail message on our podcast page Leave A Voicemail Message Like us ...
The Lawsuit That Could Disrupt The US Tax System
December 25, 2023 15:00 - 7 minutes - 6.49 MBNo more taxes on Social Security! Join Ralph Estep, Jr., as he explores the lawsuit which could significantly disrupt the US tax system. As we eagerly await a US Supreme Court decision, listen as Ralph explores the Moore case and how it may impact your taxes and entire US tax system. LISTEN NOW Please share our Podcast will all your friends and family! Submit your questions or ideas for future shows - email us at [email protected] or leave a voicemail message on our podcast page Leave...
A Special Christmas Message - The True Meaning of Christmas
December 25, 2023 08:59 - 5 minutes - 5.42 MBWhat is the real reason for the season? Join Ralph Estep, Jr., as he shares a special Christmas message about joy, hope and love during the holiday season. All of us at the Ask Ralph podcast wish you a very Merry Christmas and a joyous New Year!
How to Ruin Your Credit Score - And FIX IT!
December 24, 2023 15:00 - 10 minutes - 9.16 MBHave you ruined your credit score? Many of us have faced the issue of a low credit score that has impacted our ability to borrow, but don't be discouraged. Join Ralph Estep, Jr., and he explains how credit scores are determined, but more importantly how to fix your credit score. LISTEN NOW Please share our Podcast will all your friends and family! Submit your questions or ideas for future shows - email us at [email protected] or leave a voicemail message on our podcast page Leave A Vo...
The Four Best Pieces of Money Advice That People Hate to Hear
December 23, 2023 15:00 - 9 minutes - 8.85 MBMoney advice that works, but most people don't want to hear because it takes work to turn these ideas into action. Join Ralph Estep, Jr., as he highlights the four pieces of money advice which will absolutely transform your financial present and provide for a bright financial future. LISTEN NOW Please share our Podcast will all your friends and family! Submit your questions or ideas for future shows - email us at [email protected] or leave a voicemail message on our podcast page Leav...
Rules for Determining Independent Contractor Status
December 22, 2023 15:00 - 9 minutes - 8.8 MBDon't make the costly mistake of characterizing someone as an independent contractor when they are really an employee. Ralph Estep, Jr., explores the details related to the process of determining the correct status of workers. Avoid significant penalties and sanctions by listening to this vital podcast. LISTEN NOW Please share our Podcast will all your friends and family! Submit your questions or ideas for future shows - email us at [email protected] or leave a voicemail message on ou...
Tax Tips for Self-Employed and Contract Workers
December 21, 2023 15:00 - 9 minutes - 8.57 MBIf you are self-employed or a contract worker you need to listen to today's podcast where Ralph Estep, Jr., explores important tax tips to improve your tax situation. From accurate record keeping to entity considerations, Ralph dives into great ideas for significant tax savings. LISTEN NOW Please share our Podcast will all your friends and family! Submit your questions or ideas for future shows - email us at [email protected] or leave a voicemail message on our podcast page Leave A Vo...
Best Tax Tips for Barbers and Cosmetologists
December 20, 2023 15:00 - 8 minutes - 8.16 MBConcrete tax tips and valuable discussion for those working as barbers and in the cosmetology industry. From accounting for tips to using cash apps, Ralph Estep, Jr., dives into beneficial tax assistance strategies. LISTEN NOW Please share our Podcast will all your friends and family! Submit your questions or ideas for future shows - email us at [email protected] or leave a voicemail message on our podcast page Leave A Voicemail Message Like us on Facebook and follow us on Facebook...
Time To Select A New Accountant?
December 19, 2023 15:00 - 7 minutes - 6.48 MBNow is the time to find a new Accountant if you are looking to make a change. As we make our New Year's resolutions - now is a great time to resolve to get your books in order. Ralph Estep, Jr., explores why to select a new accountant and what to look for in a new relationship. LISTEN NOW Please share our Podcast will all your friends and family! Submit your questions or ideas for future shows - email us at [email protected] or leave a voicemail message on our podcast page Leave A Voi...
The Best Options When You Owe The IRS
December 18, 2023 16:00 - 9 minutes - 18.6 MBPeople tend to panic when they owe the IRS, but Ralph Estep, Jr., provides the best way to reduce the stress and the remove the fear of the process. It's not something to ignore or put-off and there are steps which everyone should take when they find themselves owing the IRS. LISTEN NOW Please share our Podcast will all your friends and family! Submit your questions or ideas for future shows - email us at [email protected] or leave a voicemail message on our podcast page Leave A Voice...
Choosing An Accountant To Handle Your Payroll
December 17, 2023 17:40 - 7 minutes - 17.5 MBPayroll may be a daunting task and if you make mistakes there are significant penalties for not handling payroll correctly. Ralph Estep, Jr., explores why selecting an accountant to handle payroll is so important and explores some of the problems created when errors are made in payroll processing. Submit your questions or ideas for future shows - email us at [email protected] or leave a voicemail message on our podcast page Leave A Voicemail Message Like us on Facebook and follow us on...
Demystifying Business Valuations
December 16, 2023 16:00 - 6 minutes - 16.2 MBJoin Ralph Estep, Jr., on today's Ask Ralph Show as he demystifyies business valuations. Ralph explores what is meant by a business valuation, why they are important and how the process works.
Year-End Tasks to Ensure Your Records Are In Order
December 15, 2023 16:00 - 7 minutes - 17.1 MBJoin Ralph Estep, Jr., on today's show as Ralph explores the best year-end tasks to perform when using QuickBooks online to ensure you are ready for tax preparation. Ralph shares specific actions that all businesses should take at year-end.
Crazy Deductions for Content Creators?
December 14, 2023 16:00 - 6 minutes - 16.6 MBJoin Ralph Estep, Jr., on today's Ask Ralph show as he discussed some crazy tax deductions which are available to content creators. If you work as a content creator this is a must hear podcast.
Should I Pay Off My Mortgage With Retirement Funds?
December 13, 2023 16:00 - 7 minutes - 17 MBJoin Ralph Estep, Jr., on today's Ask Ralph Show as he answers the question - Should I Pay Off My Mortgage With Retirement Funds? Ralph explores the potential consequences as well as tax costs of such a move.
Second Mortgages - What are they and how do they work?
December 12, 2023 16:00 - 7 minutes - 17 MBJoin Ralph Estep, Jr., on today's show as we explores Second Mortgages. Ralph has a discussion about the types of second mortgages as well as the application process. He also delves into the pros and cons of these loans.
Selecting An Accountant to Handle Your Taxes
December 11, 2023 16:00 - 8 minutes - 17.8 MBJoin Ralph Estep, Jr., on today's show as we discusses what to look for when selecting an accountant to handle your taxes and why choosing a licensed accountant is a better option that a simple tax preparer or online software.
Exploring the New Delaware Paid Leave Program
December 10, 2023 16:00 - 23 minutes - 32.2 MBJoin Ralph Estep, Jr., on today's podcast as he explores the impact of the New Delaware Paid Leave Program and how it will affect all Delaware businesses with more than 10 employees. Ralph discuss the goals of the program as well as the impact on Delaware employers.