NEW YORK, March 2, 2023 (Newswire.com) - OneMain Financial: Choosing a personal loan to pay off expenses or consolidate debt has its benefits, but there are some potential pitfalls in the process to avoid. These pitfalls can be found primarily in the structure of the personal loan, which includes the interest rate, payment terms, and classification as a secured or unsecured loan.  

The concerns we've listed here can be detected by reading the loan agreement thoroughly before signing any documents. Understanding the difference between the annual percentage rate (APR) and interest rate is also important. They are not the same. The APR includes the interest rate but also adds in fees and finance charges. 

Personal loans and building credit 

Credit reporting agencies like Equifax, Experian, and Transunion use a universal scoring system called FICO^® to calculate credit scores. These scores range between 300 to 850 and help determine an applicant's eligibility for a loan depending on their creditworthiness. A personal loan can increase and decrease a person's credit score. Getting approved for a personal loan may cost the applicant a few points on their credit score while paying the loan off on time without missing a payment could improve their credit. 

Lenders do what's known as a soft inquiry on the applicant's credit report during the pre-approval process. A soft inquiry on a credit score is when a person's credit report is accessed, but this does not affect the individual's credit score. On the other hand, a hard inquiry will result in a slight credit score decrease because the lender will do a deeper dive into the applicant's credit history. As for continuing to make on-time payments, they can significantly boost the score over time. 

Unsecured versus secured loans 

There's a valid argument that a loan applicant may get better terms and a lower interest rate if they opt for a secured loan versus an unsecured loan. The downside is that the collateral for a secured loan puts the borrower's assets, like a car, boat, motorcycle, or house, on the line as security for repayment. 

Defaulting on a secured loan could lead to the forfeiture of the asset. Unsecured loans don't require collateral, so losing pledged collateral isn't an issue. The interest rate and APR might be higher, but the borrower is not at risk of losing their personal property. Unsecured loans are often used for debt consolidation or to cover emergency expenses. 

Watch out for origination and early repayment Fees 

Loan applicants often go through the entire application and screening process before getting all the loan contract terms. It's important that fees, including origination fees and early repayment penalties (also called prepayment fees), are stated clearly and thoroughly. It's always important to carefully read the fine print. 

While early repayment penalties are less common these days, it's a good idea to be sure they aren't in the loan agreement.  

The Bottom Line 

Borrowing money costs money. That's just the nature of how the moneylending business works. Because taking out a personal loan has pros and cons, potential borrowers should carefully read the terms and conditions of every loan. Look for the interest rate and the APR, and determine if there are origination fees or an early repayment penalty fee. Carefully weigh the decision on whether to get a secured or unsecured loan and understand that your credit score will be affected by consenting to a potential lender's hard inquiry even if you don't accept the loan that may be offered to you.    

SPONSORED CONTENT 

Contact Information:
Keyonda Goosby
Public Relations Specialist
[email protected]
(201) 633-2125


Original Source: OneMain Financial: The Ins and Outs of Personal Loans: What to Look for and What to Avoid

DALLAS, March 2, 2023 (Newswire.com) - iQuanti: Anxiety is a normal, healthy response to everyday stressors. But anxiety can become overwhelming, difficult to manage, and may even disrupt your life. Fortunately, there are many effective ways of coping, including lifestyle changes, therapy, and medication. Let's take a deeper look at eight strategies that can help you manage your anxiety: 

1. See a therapist: Seeing a mental health clinician can help you work through the emotions and thoughts associated with anxiety. A therapist can help you learn coping skills and develop tools to manage symptoms and deal with anxiety in a healthy way. They can help you learn to recognize and challenge anxious thoughts, as well as provide support to help you make lasting lifestyle changes. 

2. See a psychiatrist: Some people with anxiety can benefit from medication — that's where a psychiatrist can help. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in mental health. If your anxiety significantly impacts everyday functioning, consider making an appointment with a psychiatrist in Dallas, Chicago, L.A., or wherever you are.  

3. Try meditation and mindfulness: Meditation and mindfulness practices can be great ways to relax and clear your mind of intrusive thoughts and worries. Consistent practice can make you more aware of your surroundings and better understand your emotions.  

4. Engage in regular exercise: Exercise is one of the best ways to reduce stress and improve mental health. Incorporating regular physical activity into your routine can help regulate your mood and alleviate anxiety.  

5. Get enough sleep: Lack of sleep can cause fatigue and irritability, making it harder to cope with stressful situations. Getting sufficient restful sleep each night can give you more energy throughout the day and lower levels of stress hormones.  

6. Unplug: Taking some time away from technology can help reduce anxiety and stress. Try to experiment with this — turn off your phone, turn off notifications, or just spend some time offline each day.  

7. Have a routine: A consistent routine can bring structure and stability to everyday life, leading to lower anxiety levels. Try making a loose daily schedule that includes time for work, exercise, meals, relaxation, and socializing.  

8. Practice self-care: Self-care looks different for everyone, but it generally involves listening to your needs, taking time for yourself, and doing things that make you happy and help you recharge. Activities that promote self-care can include reading a book, journaling, or listening to music. Whatever self-care looks like for you, centering yourself and prioritizing your own needs can help minimize stress and anxiety.   

Coping with anxiety 

These strategies and more can help you better manage your anxiety. Take things one step at a time and be kind to yourself as you work through anxious feelings. Remember, you don't have to go it alone — reach out to a professional who can give you the support required to manage your anxiety effectively.  

Contact Information:
Keyonda Goosby
Public Relations Specialist
[email protected]
(201) 633-2125


Original Source: 8 Ways to Manage Your Anxiety

NEW YORK, March 2, 2023 (Newswire.com) - iQuanti: If you're interested in getting a boat, you may be tempted to buy an older model since it will most likely have a lower price. While many used watercraft still have plenty of life left in them, one aspect that can be challenging is finding a lender that will let you finance the purchase of an older model.  

In this post, we'll explain how to find boat loans for older models and what you need to know before you make your purchase.   

Is it possible to get a loan for a used boat? 

The short answer is "yes." While many lenders prefer to finance the purchase of a new boat or at least one that's less than 10 years old, others may lend for the purchase of watercraft as old as 25 or 30 years. Of course, a lender's decision will depend on a variety of aspects of the boat, like its condition, size, market value, etc. 

The potential borrower's financial situation is also important. For the best chance of success in finding a lender to work with you, you'll want to have: 

• A high credit score 
• A low debt-to-income ratio 
• A great employment history 
• Positive net worth 

To make the best use of your time, keep in mind that it helps to get prequalified for a boat loan before you start to seriously shop around. 

Why don't some lenders finance used boats? 

Just like with a car, a boat immediately starts to depreciate right from when you purchase it. Within the first five years, a boat may lose anywhere from 25 to 50 percent of its market value depending on various factors. Since the boat serves as collateral for the boat loan, the lender doesn't want to be stuck with an asset that may already be fully depreciated if the borrower defaults on the loan.  

What differences are there between a new and a used boat loan? 

If you find a lender who's willing to let you finance an older boat, you may encounter the following loan terms: 

Higher interest rate 

Higher down payment requirement 

Higher minimum loan amount 

Shorter repayment period 

Other factors to consider 

Buying an older boat may seem like you're getting more bang for your buck, but there are some additional expenses to consider.  

For instance, a used boat is likely to already have significant wear and tear and may require more extensive maintenance. The boat's mechanical systems, such as the engine, might also need to be replaced sooner.  

Whether you get a new or used boat, don't forget to also factor the following recurring expenses into your budget: 

Insurance premiums 

Registration fees 

Fuel 

Marina fees/storage costs 

What if you can't get approved for a used boat loan? 

If the boat you're thinking about buying is too old, even for a used boat loan provider, you may still have other options. 

One option is applying for a personal loan online. Personal loans can be used for any purpose, from paying for a wedding to starting a business and, of course, buying a recreational vehicle. 

To get a personal loan that's large enough to purchase a boat, it may need to be a secured loan. This means the lender will require you to pledge collateral such as your home or a vehicle. Be aware that you'll want to make good on your payments, or you may jeopardize losing your collateral.  

The Bottom Line 

Some lenders will work with you on financing an older boat. Approval depends on several factors with respect to the watercraft and your financial situation. If you can't find a lender or don't qualify, you also have the option of applying for a personal loan. 

Contact Information:
Keyonda Goosby
Public Relations Specialist
[email protected]
(201) 633-2125


Original Source: Can You Get a Loan on an Old Boat?

NEW YORK, March 2, 2023 (Newswire.com) - Credello: Consumers always have bills to pay. What some individuals and families are focused on now is wage growth not keeping up with the pace of inflation. Some have taken on more debt in recent years. Others have dipped into savings to keep up with their most crucial bill payments.

Some consumers have taken on loans with collateral, also known as secured loans. Some with better credit have opted for unsecured personal loans, while still others are using credit cards to pay for many of their monthly expenses. 

Whichever way you're paying your bills, it might interest you to know which payments American consumers are most concerned about as we progress further into 2023.

1. Food

In a recent Fannie Mae National Housing Survey, American consumers mentioned that they were more concerned about paying their food bills than anything else. Many cited the prices of specific food items that have increased recently. 

The grocery store is usually where Americans notice sharp price increases. Because of that, it's not surprising that many expressed frustration over having to pay more for the same food staples that cost less not that long ago. 

2. Medical Care

Some individuals have healthcare plans through their work. Those that do often still have to pay hefty copays when they seek medical care, though. Those who are self-employed must pay for healthcare plans on their own, and that's expensive.

The cost of virtually all medical procedures and many medications seem to keep going up. It's unlikely that will change anytime soon, since America appears in no hurry to implement a universal healthcare system.

3. Gas

Paying more when gassing up the car was another concern for many American consumers. Higher gas prices mean it costs more to drive to and from work. Taking care of various errands costs more as well.

This concern is at least starting to be mitigated by one change in automotive technology. In recent years, more individuals than ever have been driving hybrid cars and electric vehicles. Those that do are finding some relief because they're paying less for gas, or they're no longer paying for gas at all in the case of EVs. It seems likely this trend will continue. 

4. Rent and Mortgage Payments

Rent and mortgage payments are additional expenses on American consumers' minds. Last year, more of them expressed concerns about their possible inability to keep up with the monthly rent on their apartments or mortgage payments for homeowners.

Renters seem disproportionately more worried about payments than homeowners were about mortgage payments. The number of individuals belonging to both groups who feel nervous about future payments is going up, though.

How Can You Pay These Bills?

There are no simple answers to these concerns, but certain actions are possible. Consumers can ask for raises at work. If those are not forthcoming, they can update their resumes and look for better-paying jobs within their fields. They can take on second jobs in some instances. 

They can purchase generic food products at the grocery store, should that be necessary. They can also buy bulk food items, saving themselves money that way. 

The next vehicle they get can be either a hybrid or an electric car. Since more companies keep coming out with hybrid models and EVs, used ones are also becoming available. These are more affordable and attractive options for consumers who can't afford brand-new vehicles.

There are also unsecured personal loans available from lending entities and secured loans where you put up something valuable as collateral. Credit cards are another way to pay monthly bills. You should avoid that unless it's necessary, though, due to the high interest rates these cards usually charge.

While rising costs can be frustrating, consumers have options that can help alleviate some of the stress they might be experiencing. 

Contact Information:
Keyonda Goosby
Public Relations Specialist
[email protected]
(201) 633-2125

Carolina d'Arbelles-Valle
[email protected]
+1 305 849 8443


Original Source: Consumers Are Most Worried About Making These Types of Payments in 2023

AUSTIN, Texas, March 2, 2023 (Newswire.com) - iQuanti: Recognizing when you need help is an important step in caring for your mental health. Whether you're thinking about making an appointment with a psychiatrist in Dallas, Chicago, or Miami, here are 10 reasons why you may want to consider seeing one for help: 

1. Difficulty functioning in daily life - If you struggle to manage day-to-day activities like getting out of bed in the morning, attending classes or work, and socializing, this can be a sign of underlying issues like anxiety or depression. A psychiatrist can assess symptoms and help you manage mental health issues that are hindering everyday functioning. 

2. Feeling down or sad - If you are feeling unusually down, get sad easily, or have lost interest in activities that used to make you happy, this can be a sign of depression. A psychiatrist can evaluate your symptoms and help decide on the right course of treatment. 

3. Excessive anxiety or worry - Experiencing worry or anxiety is a normal, healthy response to everyday stressors. However, excessive anxiety or worry can mean you have an anxiety disorder. A psychiatrist can put together a treatment plan and help you manage symptoms. 

4. Your therapist suggests it - If you have been seeing a therapist and they suggest you could benefit from seeing a psychiatrist, it might be time to make an appointment. Your therapist might even be able to refer you to someone.  

5. Difficulty sleeping - If you are having difficulty falling or staying asleep at night or are experiencing a change in sleep patterns, it could be due to an underlying mental health issue. A psychiatrist can help diagnose and treat any issues that may be causing insomnia.  

6. Your prescription isn't working anymore - If the medication you are taking to manage symptoms isn't working as well as it used to, you should consider seeing a psychiatrist. They can evaluate your symptoms, suggest other treatments or medications, and monitor how you're adjusting.  

7. You have a family history of mental illness - If you have a family history of mental illness, you may be at an increased risk for developing a mental health issue. Making an appointment with a psychiatrist can be an important step in monitoring your mental health and getting additional support.  

8. You experienced a traumatic event - If you experienced a traumatic event, such as a natural disaster or assault, you might develop symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A psychiatrist can put together a treatment plan that addresses your symptoms.  

9. Increased substance use - If you are using drugs or alcohol to cope with difficult emotions, this can indicate an underlying mental health issue.  

10. You are considering medication - If you are considering taking medication to manage your mental health, a psychiatrist can help. They can evaluate your symptoms, rule out other medical issues, and help you decide if medication is the right method of treatment.  

Seeing a psychiatrist can be an important part of your journey to mental health and wellness. It can help you better understand your condition and provide additional resources for managing your symptoms. This list is by no means exhaustive, but if any of the above circumstances apply to you, consider making an appointment today.  

Contact Information:
Keyonda Goosby
Public Relations Specialist
[email protected]
(201) 633-2125


Original Source: 10 Reasons to See a Psychiatrist

MollyTommy, an LGBTQ+ Social Media Platform, has recently seen unprecedented growth within the first few months of 2023.

ATLANTA, March 2, 2023 (Newswire.com) - MollyTommy, an LGBTQ+ Social Media Platform, has recently seen unprecedented growth within the first few months of 2023. Not only has the LGBTQ+ community embraced the online safe space, but also many large brands have partnered with MollyTommy.

MollyTommy touts that they are "The World's Preferred Safe and Inclusive Social Media Platform for Allies and Members of the LGBTQ+ Community." Many folks within the LGBTQ+ community feel traditional social media such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok is neither a welcoming nor a safe place to be their authentic selves, and GLAAD's 2022 Social Media Safety Index (SMSI) provides further data explaining 84% of LGBTQ+ adults stated there not enough protections on social media to prevent discrimination, harassment, or disinformation due to the amount of hate and persecution they experience on a regular basis. With MollyTommy's safeguards in place, it is no wonder membership has been growing.

Not only has the LGBTQ+ community taken notice, but many organizations and Convention and Visitors Bureaus have partnered with MollyTommy. MollyTommy is the only social media platform specifically serving the LGBTQ+ community in which advertisers can show their support and guarantee to be seen. Also, partnering with MollyTommy makes a great addition to many organizations' inclusive marketing goals.

Recently, PridePays, Just Corps, Cruise Planners, Pride Lending and St. Pete's Clearwater has partnered with MollyTommy. 

"We are so grateful and pleased with the support provided by our partners who understand the need for an LGBTQ+ safe space online. Also, by partnering with us, they are showing their solidarity within our diverse communities," said Tammy Kaudy, Co-Founder, MollyTommy.

MollyTommy is a free social media platform where LGBTQ+ communities, their friends, families, and businesses can unite with a sense of purpose and use their voices to engage with each other in a safe environment.

To join, visit mollytommy.com 

Contact Information:
Heather Brown
Marketing Manager
[email protected]
602-930-1031


Original Source: Members and Partners Flock to the LGBTQ+ Social Media Platform MollyTommy

Profile Plan, a leading provider of health and weight loss solutions, announced the acquisition through an affiliate of substantially all of the assets of HMR, a well-established health and weight loss company that has been helping people on their weight loss journeys since 1983. The acquisition will bring together two industry leaders to offer customers a more comprehensive range of health and weight loss options.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D., March 2, 2023 (Newswire.com) - "We are thrilled to welcome HMR to the Profile Plan family," said Ryan Niparts, CEO of Profile Plan. "By joining forces, Profile Plan and HMR will be able to provide customers with top-notch health and weight loss solutions, helping them achieve their wellness objectives."

Profile Plan will maintain both brands and provide their distinctive foods, coaching methods, and supporting technologies. Profile Plan and HMR both share a commitment to providing personalized, science-based weight loss solutions. The acquisition will bring together the best practices and programs of both companies to create a truly comprehensive offering.

"We are confident that this acquisition will bring significant benefits to our customers, employees, and partners," said Christine K. Weithman, MBA, RD, LDN, FAND, Director of Nutrition at HMR. "Together, we will be able to offer a wider range of solutions, a more personalized approach, and a stronger commitment to helping our customers achieve their health and weight loss goals."

The companies will complete the transition in the coming months, with HMR continuing to re-establish regular operations in the meantime.

About Profile Plan 

Profile Plan is a personalized weight loss and health program that uses a scientific approach and the individual's own DNA to create customized plans. It includes in-person or virtual one-on-one coaching, meal replacement products, and support tools to help individuals achieve and maintain their desired weight and overall health goals.

About HMR

HMR Plan (formerly HMR Weight Management Services Corp.) is a weight loss and lifestyle change program that offers structured meal plans and behavior modification coaching. It includes meal replacement options, physical activity, and healthy eating plans, and uses a phased approach to support long-term healthy lifestyle changes. HMR has been shown to be effective in producing significant weight loss and improving health outcomes for thousands of customers over four decades, in weight-loss centers and through its at-home program.

Contact Information:
Ryan Niparts
CEO, Profile Plan
[email protected]
(716) 510-3316


Original Source: Profile Plan Acquires HMR to Offer More Comprehensive Health & Weight Loss Solutions

TAMPA, Fla., March 2, 2023 (Newswire.com) - As a resource for all single parents, Shepherd's Village, the Indian Rocks Baptist Church, and their non-profit partner, The JoyFM, are partnering to sponsor and host "What's Next?" - A Conference for Solo Parents, on Saturday, March 18, from 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. at Indian Rocks Baptist Church. 

Shepherd's Village understands that flying solo as a single parent is hard, especially when forced into this unexpected season of life. The Solo Parent Conference opens the door for single parents to have a conversation with those who have walked this road before, gaining insight on their journey to find hope and healing. 

The "What's Next" Conference will cover topics by subject matter experts in the fields of:

• Co-Parenting
• Estate Planning
• Moving Forward in a New Direction
• Dating Again
• Life as a Single Dad
• How to Change Your Mindset
• Financial Freedom

Registration is required and closes on March 15. 

For more information and to register for this event, please visit our website at https://shepherdsvillage.com/whatsnextsolos23. We look forward to helping Tampa Bay single parents discover "What's Next?" so they can face their future with confidence.

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Based in Tampa Bay, FL, Shepherd's Village stands in the gap for single mothers and their children. While we are the only faith-based single-mother housing program in Pinellas County, Florida, we have expanded our free, online offerings so more women across the country can experience healing, safety, and restoration. With the help of our partners, we are able to reach two generations at one time and make an impact that will long outlive us.

There is hope beyond the brokenness and confusion caused by divorce, separation, death, or never having been married. If you know a single mother in need, please direct them to our website for life-changing resources: https://shepherdsvillage.com/. 
 

Contact Information:
Briana Yates
Project Manager- Marketing
[email protected]
7277442447


Original Source: Shepherd's Village Invites Single Parents to a Solo Parent Conference