10 Tips for Surviving on a Low-Paying Job in Singapore

In Singapore, a low-paying job is generally defined as one where the monthly wage falls below the national median salary. According to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), jobs with salaries under SGD 2,500 per month are often classified as low-wage. Approximately 10-15% of employed residents are in such positions, equating to around 200,000 to 300,000 people.

Navigating life in Singapore on a low income can be quite challenging. However, with determination and careful financial planning, you can improve your situation. Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your circumstances.

#1: TRANSPORTATION

Rethink your daily commute. Public transportation in Singapore is efficient and affordable, so consider taking the bus or MRT instead of hailing a cab. If you must ride a car, look into carpooling options with colleagues to share the costs.

#2: LIVING EXPENSES

Living frugally doesn’t mean sacrificing quality of life. It means being mindful of your spending. Cut down on non-essential expenses like dining out frequently or subscribing to multiple streaming services. Instead, cook at home more often and enjoy free or budget-friendly entertainment options like parks and community events.

#3: INTERNET ACCESS

Take advantage of free Wi-Fi available at local coffee shops, libraries, and community centers. If you need internet at home, see if your employer offers any allowances or find bundle deals that include other services you need, such as cable or phone.

#4: DEBTS

Imagine the relief of no longer having to worry about monthly mortgage or credit card bills. Prioritizing debt repayment can free up your finances, reduce stress, and provide more flexibility in your career choices. While it’s easier said than done, start by addressing your smallest debts to build momentum, and then gradually tackle larger ones.

#5: FINANCIAL SUPPORTS

Many low-income individuals are eligible for financial assistance from government agencies. The Singaporean government, for instance, has set S$2,906 per month as a reasonable starting point for a living wage.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

If you earn less than S$2,500 per month and are over 30, you might qualify for the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme, which provides cash payments and additional contributions to your Central Provident Fund (CPF). See if you qualify.

#6: BACK-UP PLAN

Saving for emergencies can be tough, especially when you are living from paycheck to paycheck, but it’s crucial. If you can’t build an emergency fund quickly, consider having a credit card with available spending power as a backup for urgent situations. Just be cautious with its use to avoid accumulating debt.

#7: UPSKILL

Investing in your education and skills can open up new opportunities and potentially higher-paying jobs. Look for free or low-cost courses online or at community centers. For starters, SkillsFuture Singapore offers credits that can be used for a wide range of courses.

#8: SUPPORT NETWORK

A strong support network can provide emotional and practical help. Connect with family, friends, and community groups. Sometimes, just talking to someone who understands your situation can make a big difference.

#9: HEALTH CONCERNS

Staying healthy can prevent costly medical bills. Regular exercise and a balanced diet improve health and reduce medical needs.

Furthermore, Medisave and MediShield Life provide additional support. Medisave is a savings scheme for medical expenses, while MediShield Life covers up to 80% of hospitalization costs. These schemes, along with government subsidies, ensure affordable access to medical care.

#10: FINANCIAL GOALS

Finally, set achievable financial and personal goals. Try to be as positive as you can while doing so. A positive mindset can make a significant difference in how you handle financial challenges.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Living on a low income in Singapore can present significant challenges, but with careful planning and a commitment to improving your financial situation, it is possible to manage your finances more effectively and enhance your quality of life. Remember, small steps and a willingness to adapt can make a meaningful difference.

Sources: 1, 2, 3, & 4

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How To Choose The Best Personal Loan For Your Needs

Life is full of unexpected twists and turns. Car repairs, medical bills, or maybe that dream vacation you’ve been eyeing—whatever the reason, sometimes you need a little financial boost. That’s where personal loans come in. They provide quick access to cash when you need it most.

But many people find themselves overwhelmed by the sheer number of options and confusing terminology. It’s easy to feel lost or even make a decision you’ll regret later. This comprehensive guide will explain the ins and outs of personal loans, help you understand the key terms, and walk you through the steps to find the perfect loan for your unique situation. Read on.

Understanding Personal Loans

Personal loans serve a specific purpose and can be incredibly handy in the right situation. Several different types are available, each with unique features.

Secured vs. unsecured

Secured loans require you to offer something valuable as collateral, like your car or savings account. This gives the lender a safety net, so they often offer lower interest rates. Unsecured loans don’t require collateral, but they might come with slightly higher rates.

Fixed-rate vs. variable-rate

A fixed-rate loan means your interest rate stays the same throughout the entire loan term. On the other hand, variable-rate loans can fluctuate with market conditions. It might be lower initially, but it could also rise, making your payments unpredictable.

Debt consolidation loans

If you’re juggling multiple high-interest debts (credit cards, student loans, etc.), debt consolidation personal loans could be your lifesaver. You combine all your debts into one loan with a lower interest rate, making it easier to manage and potentially saving you money in the long run.

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Here are some key terms you’ll encounter:

  • Principal: This is the amount you borrow, the core of your loan.
  • Interest rate: Think of this as the lender’s fee for letting you borrow their money. It’s expressed as a percentage of your principal.
  • APR (Annual Percentage Rate): This is a broader measure of the cost of borrowing, including both the interest rate and any fees.
  • Origination Fees: Some lenders charge an upfront fee to process your loan application.
  • Prepayment Penalties: Some lenders might charge a penalty if you pay off your loan early.

Knowing these terms helps you understand loan offers, compare options, and ultimately make the best decision for your financial well-being. Don’t be afraid to ask lenders questions if anything is unclear. After all, knowledge is power!

Assess Your Financial Needs

Before you apply for a loan, take a step back and assess your financial needs. Start by asking yourself some key questions:

Why do you need a personal loan?

Be honest with yourself. Is it for a home renovation project, consolidating high-interest debt, or covering unexpected medical bills? Knowing your purpose will help you determine the right loan amount and repayment term.

How much do you need to borrow?

Don’t be tempted to borrow more than you actually need. Crunch the numbers and figure out the exact amount required to achieve your goal. Remember, every dollar you borrow will need to be paid back with interest.

How long do you need to repay the loan?

Shorter loan terms mean higher monthly payments but less overall interest. Longer terms offer lower monthly payments, but you’ll pay more interest in the long run.

What is your ideal monthly payment?

Take a look at your income and expenses to figure out how much you can comfortably afford to pay each month. There are plenty of online calculators that can help you estimate payments based on different loan amounts and terms.

Answering these questions will help you narrow down your loan options and choose the one that best suits your situation.

Research Lenders

Each lender offers different loan products with varying interest rates, fees, and terms. It’s crucial to shop around and compare your options to find the best fit for your needs.

Traditional banks

Traditional banks offer a wide range of financial products and services, including personal loans. If you already have a relationship with a bank, they might offer you preferential rates or terms. However, they tend to have stricter eligibility requirements, especially for those with less-than-perfect credit.

Credit unions

Credit unions are member-owned, not-for-profit organizations that often offer competitive rates and personalized service. They might be a good option if you’re looking for a more community-oriented approach.

Online lenders

These lenders offer convenience and speed, with many applications processed entirely online. They may be more flexible with their eligibility requirements, but their interest rates can vary widely, especially for those with lower credit scores.

Peer-to-peer lending platforms

They connect borrowers directly with individual investors, cutting out the traditional middleman (the bank). This can lead to more flexible terms and potentially lower rates, but it’s important to research the platform and its reputation.

So, how do you actually research lenders? Here are a few tips:

    • Check their websites: Most lenders list their loan products, rates, and terms online.
    • Read reviews and ratings: See what other borrowers have to say about their experiences with different lenders.
    • Talk to friends and family: Get recommendations from people you trust. They might have had positive experiences with certain lenders.
    • Use comparison tools: Many websites and financial tools allow you to compare multiple loan offers side-by-side.

Remember, don’t be afraid to ask questions and negotiate with lenders. You’re the customer, and you have the power to choose the lender that best suits your requirements.

Evaluate Your Eligibility

Lenders have specific criteria they consider in determining whether you’re a good candidate for a loan. Here are the main factors they check:

Credit score

Your credit score summarizes your credit history, including your payment history, outstanding debts, and credit utilization. A higher score signals to lenders that you’re a responsible borrower.

Income and employment history

Lenders will typically ask for proof of income, such as pay stubs or tax returns. A stable job history demonstrates reliability and increases your chances of approval.

Debt-to-income ratio (DTI)

The debt-to-income ratio measures your monthly debt payments (including credit cards, student loans, and potential loan payments) relative to your income. Banks prefer borrowers with lower DTIs, as it indicates they have more disposable income to handle additional debt.

By understanding these factors, you can set realistic expectations and increase your chances of finding a loan that works for you.

Final Thoughts

The path to securing the best personal loan might feel winding, but with a bit of knowledge and the right tools, you can find something that aligns with your needs and financial goals. So, take a deep breath, trust in your newfound knowledge, and embark on your journey towards financial freedom. The right personal loan is out there, waiting to help you turn your dreams into reality.

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Best Way To Understand Forex for Beginners

 Which are the best ways for a beginner to understand forex? Learn about these different methods and how they help newbies in this market.

 

The rise of foreign exchange (forex or FX) trading has been quite dramatic. It has risen from around $1 trillion in the late 90s to over $8 trillion (according to the BIS Triennial Central Bank Survey).

Despite this immense value, much of the global population is still new to the foreign exchange market. This presents an exciting avenue for newbies, but it also presents challenges, given the complexities of online trading.

Thankfully, there are various ways to learn forex trading as a beginner.

Engage in Free Online Resources

The Internet is the first point of contact for first-timers who want to trade forex. Several economic aspects related to currencies may make some assume that university-level education is necessary.

However, forex is more of a discretionary activity. In other words, there is more than one way to skin a cat — even when all traders see the same chart.

Nonetheless, the Internet offers many free websites where you can learn about the currency market. Among these is Babypips, which uses a witty writing style to present all the basics of forex trading and break advanced concepts down in the simplest way possible. Newbies can navigate structured lessons through a free course that offers certification.

Other notable websites include Investopedia and DailyFX. While using a slightly more advanced tone, both resources are as comprehensive as Babypips. Thankfully, these are free platforms that provide excellent material.

Read Books on Trading

Nowadays, reading books is often seen as a forgotten pastime. Luckily, new traders can access many insightful works online related to forex, which have stood the test of time.

Below are some recommended titles to enjoy:

  • Market Wizards: Interviews with the Top Traders (1989) by Jack Schwager: This book covers interviews with famous, high-net-worth traders of the past, from Paul Tudor Jones to Bruce Kovner. While not exclusive to forex, the interviews provide many valuable lessons beginners can apply in the former.

Other newer versions of the Market Wizards series exist with 1992, 2001, and 2020 editions.

  • Trading in the Zone: Master the Market with Confidence, Discipline, and a Winning Attitude’ (2000) by Mark Douglas: As with Jack Schwager’s book, Trading in the Zone is less about forex but a must-read for all traders. Many consider this body of work as a masterpiece in trading psychology.

However, the late Douglas went beyond the latter concept, covering other technical yet interesting topics such as probabilities, financial risk, and market randomness.

  • Day Trading and Swing Trading the Currency Market (2015) by Kathy Lien: Kathy is a relatively young forex trader and author who contributes her high-level analysis to platforms like CNBC and Bloomberg. In its third edition, this book focuses more on trading currencies, covering advanced technical and fundamental analysis.

Join Forums Online

While trading is typically a personal activity, beginners can feed off the knowledge of other experienced traders in dedicated communities. These include Forex Factory, Babypips, Forex Peace Army, and the forex subreddit (r/forex) on Reddit.

One advantage of these discussion boards is that beginners can ask any question and get an excellent response from an existing trader. They are also a place of heated yet eye-opening debates. If you’re lucky, you may gain ‘top secret’ information from a generous, profitable trader or, at the very least, rare tips and tricks.

Use a Demo Account From a Reputable Broker

A demo account is essential for any first-time trader to learn about forex and test their strategies without financial risk. Even experienced participants will switch to this demo account from time to time to make tweaks or simulate a new trading system.

It’s also crucial for beginners to pick a reputable Singapore forex broker during the demo stage. Ultimately, the aim is to transition into a live account. Yet, using the right broker enhances the experience and ensures one receives the best trading conditions.

Get a Copy Trading Account

Even during the learning stage, newbies can earn while they learn by using a copy trading account during the learning stage. Copy trading is a system where you connect your account to an experienced trader whose positions get replicated automatically to your account.

Unfortunately, this avenue does come with a financial commitment. So, it’s not for everyone. Yet, it’s also a way to learn about trading currencies. Copiers can split their funds across many strategy providers. This exposes them to various trading methods and crucial performance metrics like drawdown, gain percentage, and profit factor.

Exploring the Numerous Ways To Learn Forex as a Beginner

The number of forex participants has yet to reach its full potential. This means millions of beginners are eager to engage in the most traded financial market.

Thanks to the Internet, the barrier to entry is low, and you can understand the game from several websites, books, online forums, a demo account, and a copy trading account. So, there is no single best way to learn forex. However, experience and never-ending learning are necessary.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid in Estate Planning

It’s crucial to ensure your wishes are respected and your loved ones are cared for after you’re gone. Yet, many individuals make common mistakes that can lead to complications, disputes, or unintended consequences. This post will outline the most frequent pitfalls in estate planning and provide actionable insights on avoiding them.

Understanding the Basics of Estate Planning

Estate planning includes preparing documents like wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. The aim is to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes, all while minimizing taxes and legal complications. You might think estate planning is only for the wealthy, but that’s a common misconception. According to a reputable California Estate Planning Lawyer, everyone has an estate, which includes everything you own—your house, cars, bank accounts, and personal belongings. Therefore, having a solid estate plan is essential for everyone.

Common Myths About Estate Planning

Mistake #1: Failing to Create a Will

Creating a will is one of the simplest ways to ensure your intentions are respected. It lets you specify who receives your belongings and how your debts should be settled. Intestacy laws may not reflect your wishes, which can create discord among family members. For instance, if you intended for a specific family member to receive your property, intestacy laws may allocate it differently, leading to disputes. Creating a will doesn’t have to be daunting. Start by reviewing your assets and deciding how you want them distributed. Be clear about your intentions, and consider including a list of personal belongings with sentimental value. Next, choose an executor—someone you trust to manage your estate and fulfill your wishes. This person will ensure your estate is handled according to your plan. Finally, consult a legal professional to ensure your will meets state requirements and is legally binding.

Mistake #2: Ignoring the Power of Trusts

A trust is a legal arrangement that allows a third party, known as a trustee, to manage your assets on behalf of your beneficiaries. Trusts can help you avoid probate and offer greater control over your assets’ distribution. Revocable trusts can be altered or dissolved during your lifetime, providing flexibility. On the other hand, irrevocable trusts cannot be modified once established, offering potential tax benefits and protection from creditors. Incorporating trusts into your estate planning can provide numerous benefits. For one, your beneficiaries can access their inheritance more quickly. Trusts also offer greater privacy than wills, as they are not public records.

Additionally, trusts allow you to set specific conditions on how and when your assets are distributed, ensuring your wishes are followed. Trusts can help mitigate potential disputes and protect your legacy if you have significant assets or complex family dynamics. Consulting an estate planning attorney can help you determine the best type of trust for your situation and ensure it aligns with your overall estate plan.

Mistake #3: Not Updating Your Estate Plan

An estate plan isn’t a one-time task; it requires regular updates to remain relevant. Several life events should trigger a review of your estate plan. These include getting married, having children, experiencing a significant change in income, or relocating to a different state with varying estate laws. Additionally, changes in relationships, such as a death or divorce, should prompt a reassessment. Even if your financial situation has stayed the same, reviewing your plan every few years is wise to ensure it remains aligned with your goals.

Your estate plan reflects your values and care for your loved ones. Take the time to assess your current situation, seek professional guidance, and ensure your wishes are honored after you leave. Consider taking the next step by revisiting your estate plan today or consulting a qualified estate planning attorney. The peace of mind you’ll gain is invaluable for you and those you cherish most.

 

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Why Renting is the New Home Ownership in Singapore

With skyrocketing property prices and evolving lifestyles, more Singaporeans are finding renting to be a practical and often better choice. Here’s why renting is becoming the new home ownership in the Lion City.

FLEXIBILITY AND MOBILITY

Renting offers the freedom to move easily, whether for job opportunities, lifestyle changes, or personal preferences.

For instance, my friend, a marketing executive, recently secured a job in a different part of the city. As a renter, she could effortlessly relocate closer to her new workplace in Raffles Place, avoiding the hassle and cost of selling a property. This move significantly reduced her commute, giving her more time for herself and the things she cares about.

FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS

Owning a home in Singapore requires substantial financial commitments, from hefty down payments to long-term mortgage repayments. According to the PropertyGuru Singapore Consumer Sentiment Study H2 2022, younger Singaporeans (aged 22 to 29) are increasingly turning to renting due to insufficient savings for property purchases. This is not surprising, given that young, unmarried Singaporeans face restrictions in the HDB market. These restrictions include the need to apply as a couple or family unit, or wait until they turn 35.

Property costs can be overwhelming, but renting allows for better cash flow management. Without the need for a large initial payout, individuals can invest in their businesses, save more, or enjoy experiences that enhance their lives.

DEPRECIATION AND MAINTENANCE COSTS AVOIDANCE

Owning property involves more than just the purchase price. Maintenance, repairs, and renovations can accumulate costs over time. Moreover, property values may depreciate.

On the other hand, renters are free from these additional expenses since landlords usually handle property upkeep. This leads to significant savings and less financial stress.

ACCESS TO PRIME LOCATIONS

Renting can provide access to prime locations that might be unaffordable or unavailable to buy. Living close to the city center, with its vibrant lifestyle and convenient amenities, often comes with a high price tag for buyers. Renters, however, can enjoy these benefits without the long-term financial burden of a mortgage.

LIFESTYLE CHOICES

For many young professionals and expatriates, renting suits their lifestyle better. The flexibility to move closer to work, live in trendy neighborhoods, or enjoy various amenities often outweighs the traditional desire for home ownership. Renting supports a lifestyle that values convenience over long-term financial commitments.

For instance, my cousins, who are avid travelers, leave home once or twice a month. They can easily spend a month exploring Europe since they aren’t tied down by home ownership and its maintenance.

MARKET VOLATILITY

The property market in Singapore can be unpredictable, influenced by economic conditions, government policies, and global events. Renting provides a cushion against market volatility, as renters are not directly affected by property value fluctuations. This stability is particularly appealing in uncertain economic times.

IN A NUTSHELL

While home ownership has long been seen as a cornerstone of financial security, the trend in Singapore is shifting. Renting is increasingly recognized as a practical, flexible, and financially sound alternative.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

As the saying goes, home is where the heart is – and for many, that heart is happier and freer in a rented space.

Sources: 1,2, & 3

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