Episodes
Jan. 12, 2024
Innocent Spouse Relief
The 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, ...
Jan. 11, 2024
Deferred Interest Loans - Don't Get Pinched!
Deferred 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 fle...
Jan. 10, 2024
Getting Ready for Tax Time
Ralph 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 find...
Jan. 9, 2024
7 Ways to Raise Your Credit Score by 200 Points
In 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...
Jan. 8, 2024
New Years Financial Resolutions
In 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 resolution...
Jan. 7, 2024
10 Experiences You Don't Want as a Retiree
In 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 sp...
Jan. 6, 2024
Saving Money on Your Next Car
Today, 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 yo...
Jan. 5, 2024
Common Estate Planning Mistakes
Today, 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 an...
Jan. 4, 2024
IRS Penalty Review - Breaking News!
Join 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 rece...
Jan. 3, 2024
Starting a Small Business - An interview with Amanda Nauman
Are 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...
Jan. 2, 2024
Emergency Withdrawals From 401-K Plans - Pros and Cons
Ralph 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 ret...
Jan. 1, 2024
Inflation Woes - Where Americans Say Their Expenses Have Gone Up
Ralph 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 i...
Dec. 31, 2023
Steps For Withdrawing An Employee Retention Credit Claim
Ralph 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 docume...
Dec. 30, 2023
Tax Breaks for Seniors
Ralph 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, ...
Dec. 29, 2023
Self-Employment Tax
In 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, inc...
Dec. 28, 2023
IRS Related Identity Theft
Ralph 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...
Dec. 27, 2023
Mortgage & Economic Update - An Interview with Jason Bochniak
Looking 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 historica...
Dec. 26, 2023
Three Reasons To Take Social Security Early
It'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...
Dec. 25, 2023
The Lawsuit That Could Disrupt The US Tax System
No 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...
Dec. 25, 2023
A Special Christmas Message - The True Meaning of Christmas
What 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 an...
Dec. 24, 2023
How to Ruin Your Credit Score - And FIX IT!
Have 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 determin...
Dec. 23, 2023
The Four Best Pieces of Money Advice That People Hate to Hear
Money 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 f...
Dec. 22, 2023
Rules for Determining Independent Contractor Status
Don'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...
Dec. 21, 2023
Tax Tips for Self-Employed and Contract Workers
If 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, Ral...