Everyone must deal with it from time to time: questions about your financial situation. You are looking for a new home and want to take out a mortgage, or you wonder whether you will have enough money to make ends meet when you retire. You are looking for a financial advisor, but how can you best find this advisor?
This blog article will discuss some points to help you find an excellent financial advisor. By the end of this blog, you will have gained more insight into how to find a financial advisor that suits you.
What Does a Financial Advisor Do?
A financial advisor helps you make the right financial decision in your situation. For example, when choosing a financial product. The financial advisor makes an inventory of your personal and financial position and considers your wishes and possibilities. They then come up with advice for taking out a financial product.
A financial advisor can work for a bank but also work independently.
When do You Need a Financial Advisor?
A financial advisor can advise you on financial matters. It may concern insurance, mortgages, borrowing, saving, or building up assets for later, such as for your pension. Are you not involved in these kinds of things daily? Then, it is advisable to regularly consult a financial advisor or another professional when making major financial decisions. A wrong decision can cost thousands of euros.
How do You Recognize an Excellent Financial Advisor?
In principle, anyone who understands finance can call themselves a financial advisor. So, paying close attention to who you do business with is essential. The AFM (Financial Markets Authority) supervises banks, insurers, and other financial enterprises. A good financial advisor can demonstrate his professional competence through his certification according to the Financial Supervision Act (WFT). It means, for example, that a good financial advisor has the right diplomas. Many financial advisors are affiliated with a foundation or quality mark, which grants them a certificate if the financial advisor can demonstrate that they are competent.
How Can You Compare Multiple Financial Advisors?
A financial advisor must provide you with the service document before, during, or after the first exploratory meeting – but in any case, before giving you advice. This document is an essential aid when choosing a financial services provider. In the service document, you will find a lot of information that helps you to compare multiple financial service providers. The document also allows you to choose a type of service provider. For example, do you opt for an independent advisor, or do you opt for a bank or insurer? In the service document, you will find whether the advice is given and based on objective analysis.
What is the Difference Between a Financial Advisor and a Financial Planner?
A job title often gives little clarity about what someone does. The working method, training, knowledge, and experience depend on the person in question, so it is important to always inquire about this. The FFP (Certified Financial Planners) Foundation states that a financial planner can advise on the most complex matters. Also, if necessary, he calls in specialists from his network for sub-areas, such as pensions, investments, divorces, inheritance, etc. The Financial Planner often must meet stricter training and certification requirements than the financial advisor.
Depending on your financial issue, looking for an advisor or planner with at least one of these quality marks is advisable. However, you cannot always indicate the difference between the Financial Advisor and Financial Planner because both often approach advice integrally (as ultimately as possible). In addition, the RFEA (Register Financial Divorce Advisor) guarantees the expertise of the divorce advisor.
When Can an Independent Advisor Recommend Specific Products?
If you choose an independent advisor, the question is: when can he advise a specific product? Consultancy occurs when a company recommends a specific financial product from a particular provider to an individual customer.
What Does an Advisor Cost?
The price of a financial advisor can differ per advisor. The consultant must indicate compensation for his work after the first (possibly free) meeting. An advisor can receive payment in several ways, for example, a fixed amount, an amount per hour, or a subscription system. An hourly rate is often between $70 and $100. A financial planner usually has a higher hourly rate, around $150.
Who do I Click With?
Have you decided to work with a financial advisor? Legislation and regulations, industry organizations, and quality marks help us find a financial advisor who delivers good quality. However, this often remains a gray area. What works for one person may not work at all for another. In any case, make sure that you work with someone you click with. For example, ask your network about experiences or choose if you have had conversations with several advisors. Because they advise, in the end, you make a choice. And that should feel good.
About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.
Investing is investing money with the idea that that investment will increase in value. You can invest in, for example, shares and bonds, bitcoins, other cryptocurrencies, or real estate.
When to Invest
Only invest with money you can afford to lose. In the worst-case scenario, if the investment yields little or nothing, it should have no impact on getting by in your day-to-day life. You still must do your shopping and pay the rent or mortgage. If you want to invest with savings, make sure you always build up a buffer first. You can calculate your minimum buffer with our Buffer calculator. If you have more protection than the minimum buffer for your situation, you can take more risk and invest with that money.
Are You Saving or Investing?
The choice of saving or investing depends on several things. Do you want to take risks with the money, or do you prefer security? How long can you miss the money? For what purpose do you put money aside? Investing can be interesting for some savings goals but less so for others.
If you have some money left over, the online money plan saving, repaying, or investing will help you make choices.
The Return from Investing
If you are going to invest, there are different forms of return: an annual fee, for example, interest or dividend, and capital gains. You can invest in stocks, bonds, or mutual funds. You can also invest in options, real estate, gold, and art. Often, the more profit you can make, the greater the risk.
Interest or Dividend
For certain forms of investment, you will receive compensation every year:
With bonds, you receive interest every year.
You may receive a dividend with shares. The benefit depends on how well a business runs. If you invest in a company that is not performing well, there is a risk that you will receive little or no compensation for a year.
You can receive a rental income if you invest in a second home.
Stock Price
With many investments, the return is also included in price gain. Capital gains mean you sell the assets for more money than you paid. Sometimes, you get back less for your investment than you paid. You will then suffer a loss.
Some investments do not give an annual fee; only price gain is the basis for return. It applies, for example, to options, gold, art, bitcoins, or other cryptocurrencies. The prices of these types of investments depend much more on sentiment and thus fluctuate much more strongly than bonds and equities.
Investing in Real Estate
Investing money in real estate can be a stable choice if you invest part of your capital in physical, tangible things. A disadvantage is that you must have significant equity capital to buy real estate.
Fortunately, in 2022, there are a lot of other opportunities to invest in real estate with little money. For example, some companies offer real estate investments to invest in real estate from $189.
Investing in Gold and Silver
In principle, gold or silver yields nothing, at least not in the form of interest. Precious metals are generally regarded to protect against inflation or when other investments risk becoming loss-making.
However, this protection is usually only a reality in the long term. In a short time, the value of gold and silver can fluctuate a lot. Silver prices are even more erratic than gold because the market is smaller.
Investing in Solar Panels (on Your Own or Someone Else’s Roof)
Placing solar panels on your roof or investing in panels on the roofs of schools, swimming pools, and other public buildings can be an excellent way to invest your money sustainably. They are also an excellent alternative to saving.
However, is it still enjoyable to invest in solar panels today?
The decisions of governments to phase out or cancel a lot of subsidies make many Dutch people hesitant to invest in energy-saving measures.
It certainly applies to solar panels. Nevertheless, solar panels will still be profitable in 2022.
Net Return
When we talk about investments, we often speak of returns. It indicates the return on the investment. It is essential to check whether it concerns gross or net returns. Look especially at the net return. Costs and premiums have not yet been deducted from the income in the gross recovery. So, it seems you are getting more than you will. Important: the net return is an indication but never a guarantee.
About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.
For recent college graduates, education benefits are hugely appealing. She usually sees employers offering to pay a portion of college tuition for employees who choose to return to school. Some even go a step further and provide educational sabbaticals. It usually does not apply to courses you took when you started employment. It’s one of the benefits that will become available a little later if you’ve been with the organization for a few months or a year.
Student Loan Payment Programs
Another benefit currently on the rise is that employers are helping to relieve their employees’ student debt. And it makes incredible sense, given that the most recent data indicates a whopping $1.71 trillion in U.S. student loans right now, affecting about 44.7 million Americans, according to Student Loan Hero.
“Employer contribution programs have become increasingly popular in recent years,” says Anastasio. “Because student debt is still a burden, companies are looking for ways to differentiate themselves and help their users manage those debts, which can be crippling.”
Financial Wellness Programs
One of the newer benefits employers offer is that financial wellness programs benefit employees in the same way as providing a discounted gym membership.
“It keeps employee satisfaction high and also helps the company to remain competitive as an employer,” she adds. “By helping to reduce the stress associated with financial hardship, employers also benefit from increased happiness and productivity among their workforces.”
An outside group of professional engineers usually provides these programs; you can also typically allow them as part of your 401k plan manager program.
Family Offer
Is a baby on the way? Check company rules to see if they offer paternity leave. Some companies, for example, Microsoft, will give you six months off and $20K for the first year of childcare. Also, check if your employer suggests concierge services when you have a new baby who can care for tasks such as laundry to lunch delivery.
“Organizations are shifting their fringe benefits and benefits to attract and attract younger staff,” says Anastasio. She’s also seen a growing trend in pet insurance packages and monthly grants, up to $28 a month to keep your pet healthy and happy, so check that out, too.
Versatile Checking Account
FSAs take pre-tax money from your income and put it aside for out-of-pocket expenditures like daycare, medical services, or transportation.
“During open enrollment, you decide what you want with your election and can deposit up to $5,000 into that account,” says NerdWallet personal finance expert Kimberly Palmer. “If you have a 38% tax rate, you save 40% on those costs.”
Some employees skip this offer because they are unclear about their tax benefits. But if you’re willing to keep track of your receipts for the year, Palmer said it could add up to hundreds of savings.
Choosing the Right Insurance Choosing
Whether you choose health insurance or opt for supplemental life or disability coverage, Anastasio says that your employer’s group coverage can provide significant savings.
“By picking the right type of health insurance, you can save money all year round through lower premiums, lower co-payments, or even employer contributions to an FSA or HSA,” she explains.
Supplemental life insurance and disability coverage provided by your employer can also help you save money by reducing the need to obtain this type of coverage at a higher rate elsewhere.
“It’s not uncommon to find that supplemental coverage through your employer is cheaper than what you’d find alone as an individual,” says Anastasio.
Commuting Benefits
This employer benefit may have declined in popularity during the pandemic. Still, as we return to offices, it’s worth bearing in mind that you may be able to save on public transportation, bundled rides, or parking costs, Anastasio says.
“Many employers offer you the option of applying for a commuter benefit, which allows you to pay for these related costs before taxes,” she says, noting that companies known for this benefit, including Google, Facebook, SoFi, and JPMorgan Chase.
Some employers now offer employees transportation to work or credit for vehicles, such as paying for Uber fares up to a certain threshold, adds Anna Barker, personal finance expert and founder of Logical Dollar.
About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.
A premium is a set amount paid regularly to maintain your insurance policy current and in effect. Payments might be made monthly, quarterly, semiannually, or annually, depending on your insurer and insurance type. You’ll save money whenever you pay your annual premium in one single sum, and you may be eligible for a cheaper rate.
There is usually a grace period if you neglect to pay your premium. However, even if the missed payment was an honest error, an insurance provider might terminate your coverage afterward.
A health coverage price is a price you pay when you purchase insurance. Simply put, premiums are the sums of money you give to insurance firms in return for coverage. As a result, consider “insurance premium” synonymous with “insurance price.”
Depending on the insurance, premiums are usually paid monthly, semiannually, or annually. Some insurers may give you a modest discount when you bundle your plans or pay your premiums annually.
Your insurance policy is determined by the type of insurance you purchase, such as life, renters, car, or homeowners’ insurance. You may be asked for a monthly premium, which you must pay before your provider begins to pay for your legal costs.
Premiums for Insurance and the Variables That Impact Them
The amount of premiums you pay is influenced by several factors. Some criteria are particular to the policy, while others depend on you, the policyholder, or the nature of the assets you cover.
Here are some frequent factors that influence the cost of homes and auto insurance:
Limits on coverage
The amount that you can deduct
Credit for previous claims
Insurance Prices for Automobiles
The quantity of coverage you choose and your age, driving record, claims history, and the car are all factors that determine your auto insurance prices.
The most expensive option is full coverage, covering accident, extensive, and catastrophe insurance. Compare vehicle insurance alternatives while looking for coverage to get the best deal.
Life Insurance Premiums
Insurers frequently evaluate your age and medical history when deciding life insurance prices. Your payment history, the amount of coverage you select, and your employment status are all factors that determine the price.
Because everlasting plans, such as complete insurance coverage, protect you for the rest of your life, they are the most expensive of the several types of life insurance. On the other hand, a life insurance policy covers a specific time, ten or twenty years.
Premiums for Renters’ Insurance
Renters’ insurance costs, on average, between $10 and $25 per month, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. The worth of your belongings influences the cost of premiums, whether the building has an alarm system, and how close fire protection services are. Before purchasing coverage, compare the renter’s insurance quotes.
Homeowner’s Insurance Premiums
In 2018, the average annual homeowner’s insurance premium was around $1,200, according to the most available regional office data. The cost of homeowner’s insurance is decided by several factors, including the location and value of the structure, your credit score, claims history, and the amount of compensation you want.
Premiums for Travel Insurance
Below are some of the factors that impact your travel insurance premium:
The chance of filing a travel insurance claim is affected by your age, with older travelers filing more claims. Travel insurance prices are determined mainly by the amount of trip expense you’re insuring. You wish to protect yourself against the loss of pre-paid and non-refundable deposits.
Premiums for Pet Insurance
Pet insurance is like pet health insurance. The following elements are considered when calculating pet insurance premiums:
Pet insurance prices climb as pets become older since they are less prone to disease or injury while they are younger. Some breeds are more prone to inherited diseases than others, raising your insurance risk and lowering your cost. In addition, dog insurance is typically more expensive than cat insurance. According to insurance data, male pets have more claims than female pets; hence, some insurers charge more for male pets.
About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.
Get Your Service Fees Waived: Simple Steps to Save More
Getting your service fees waived is possible with the right preparation and approach—just follow these simple, proven steps to negotiate effectively and keep more money in your pocket. Contact the service provider, state your case confidently, and use smart negotiation tactics to maximize your success rate while maintaining professional relationships with your service providers.
As a business owner and client advocate with over 20 years at the helm of Complete Controller, I’ve witnessed firsthand how unnecessary fees drain both personal and business finances. During my tenure helping thousands of businesses manage their financial operations, I’ve discovered that what most people accept as inevitable charges are actually negotiable opportunities. The strategies I’m sharing today come from real experiences helping clients save substantial amounts—one client reduced their annual banking fees by $3,200 simply by implementing these techniques. You’ll learn exactly how to identify waivable fees, craft compelling requests, and navigate common roadblocks that stop most people from even trying.
How can you get your service fees waived, and what actually works?
You get service fees waived by preparing documentation, contacting providers promptly, stating clear reasons, maintaining professional communication, and escalating when necessary
Preparation involves gathering account statements, fee details, and understanding company policies before initiating contact
Communication success depends on calm, clear explanations highlighting loyalty, errors, or valid hardship circumstances
Persistence through polite escalation or written follow-ups often succeeds where initial requests fail
Long-term fee reduction comes from building positive relationships and proactive account management practices
Steps to Get Service Fees Waived Like a Pro
Successfully waiving service fees starts with understanding that companies want to keep valuable customers. My experience shows that 82% of credit cardholders who ask for late fee waivers receive at least partial relief, according to Bankrate’s 2020 survey. This high success rate proves that asking works—you just need the right approach.
Prepare your documentation and know your rights
Start by collecting all relevant information before making contact. Pull together your account statements showing the specific fees, note the dates and amounts, and gather any correspondence related to the charges. Research your provider’s written fee policies, which you’ll often find in your original agreement or on their website.
Account statements highlighting the specific fees in question
Documentation of your payment history and account standing
Notes about any service issues or errors that may have triggered fees
Your customer history length and total business value to the company
Ways to approach different service providers
Each industry has distinct protocols for handling fee waiver requests. Banks typically have more flexibility with long-term customers, while software companies often have strict policies but may offer credits instead of refunds. Understanding these differences helps you tailor your approach.
Financial institutions: Request supervisor review for fees over $25
Software/SaaS providers: Ask for account credits if refunds aren’t available
Telecommunications: Reference competitor offers as negotiation leverage
Utility companies: Cite payment history and request one-time courtesy waivers
How to Communicate Your Request for a Fee Waiver
The way you present your request dramatically impacts your success rate. After helping clients negotiate thousands of fee waivers, I’ve identified communication patterns that consistently yield positive results. Your tone, timing, and specific word choices matter more than most people realize.
Scripts, email templates, and key phrases that work
Professional, concise communication opens doors that aggressive demands close. Start with acknowledgment of the relationship, state your specific request, provide your reasoning, and close with appreciation for their consideration.
“I’ve been a loyal customer for [X years] and noticed a [specific fee] on my recent statement. Given my consistent payment history and the unusual circumstances that led to this charge, I’m requesting a one-time courtesy waiver. I value our relationship and appreciate your consideration of this request.”
Open with loyalty and positive history
Specify the exact fee and amount
Provide clear, honest reasoning
Express appreciation for their time and consideration
Common mistakes to avoid
Many fee waiver requests fail due to preventable communication errors. Avoiding these pitfalls significantly increases your chances of success.
Making threats or ultimatums about closing accounts
Being vague about which fees you want waived
Accepting initial rejections without respectful follow-up
Failing to document your request and their response
Approaching the conversation with entitlement rather than partnership
When and How to Escalate for the Greatest Success
Initial rejections don’t mean final answers. In my experience guiding Complete Controller clients through fee negotiations, escalation to supervisors results in approval roughly 60% of the time when the initial representative says no. The key lies in strategic, professional escalation.
Escalating to supervisors
When frontline representatives lack authority to waive fees, politely requesting supervisor assistance often changes the outcome. Real-world example: An AT&T customer spent 11 hours in chat sessions before escalating to a supervisor named Mike, who resolved a double-billing error in just 4 minutes, according to documented cases.
Thank the initial representative for their time
Politely ask to speak with someone who has waiver authority
Restate your case with any additional context
Remain calm and professional throughout the escalation
Loyalty and customer history as leverage
Your relationship history provides powerful negotiation leverage. Companies know that acquiring new customers costs approximately $561, making retention financially attractive. In fact, 41% of customers who experience unexpected fees close their accounts, according to Chime’s 2024 research.
Calculate your total lifetime value as a customer
Mention multiple products or services you use
Reference any referrals you’ve made
Highlight your positive payment history and account standing
Real Stories: Fee Waiver Wins from the Field
Learning from others’ successes provides blueprints for your own negotiations. These documented cases show how persistence and proper approach lead to significant savings.
Case study—A longtime bank customer gets monthly fees waived
Jane, a Chase customer facing financial hardship, initially received rejection for her $15 monthly fee waiver request. By documenting her 12-year history, explaining her temporary situation, and escalating to a relationship manager, she secured permanent fee elimination. Her persistence saved $180 annually.
Key success factors from this case:
Clear documentation of customer loyalty
Honest explanation of circumstances
Professional persistence through multiple contacts
Escalation to decision-makers with authority
Lessons from repeated appeals and systemic barriers
Successful fee negotiations often require multiple attempts through different channels. oXYGen Financial documented cases where customers succeeded on third or fourth attempts by varying their approach—calling instead of chatting, speaking with different departments, or submitting written requests after verbal rejections.
Hidden Service Fees: How to Spot—and Stop—Them Before They Hit
The average American household loses $1,495 annually to hidden fees, according to Doxo’s 2024 research. These charges include $173 in late fees, $60 in overdraft fees, and numerous other “convenience” charges that add up to nearly $196 billion nationally. Identifying these fees before they accumulate saves both money and negotiation time.
The most common hidden or sneaky fees
Service providers often bury fees in lengthy statements or label them with confusing names. Regular statement reviews help you catch these charges early when they’re easiest to dispute.
Maintenance or administrative fees on “free” accounts
Processing fees for standard transactions
Convenience charges for payment methods
Annual fees that appear after introductory periods
Inactivity fees on dormant accounts
Proactive prevention strategies
Preventing fees beats waiving them every time. Set up systems that protect you from common charges while maintaining awareness of your account terms.
Configure low-balance alerts on all financial accounts
Review terms annually before automatic renewals
Ask about all potential fees during account opening
Document any verbal promises about fee waivers
Set calendar reminders for fee-prone dates
Turn Denial into Opportunity: What to Do If Your Fee Waiver Request Is Denied
Rejection doesn’t mean defeat. Many successful fee waivers come after initial denials when customers persist strategically. Understanding why requests fail helps you adjust your approach for better results.
Next steps after a “No”
Transform denials into information-gathering opportunities. Ask specific questions about why your request was denied and what would change their decision.
Request the denial reason in writing for your records
Ask what circumstances would qualify for a waiver
Submit new documentation addressing their concerns
Try different communication channels (phone after chat fails)
Consider filing formal complaints with regulatory bodies if warranted
Building long-term fee-saving habits
Creating systematic approaches to fee management saves more than individual negotiations. Develop habits that minimize fee exposure while maximizing your negotiation position when fees do occur.
Maintain minimum balances to qualify for fee waivers
Enroll in loyalty programs offering automatic fee forgiveness
Build relationships with personal bankers or account managers
Track all fees in a spreadsheet to identify patterns
Negotiate annual fee packages instead of individual charges
Expert Advice: A Founder’s Guide to Never Paying Unnecessary Service Fees Again
After two decades of helping businesses optimize their financial operations, I’ve learned that fee management is about systems, not just individual negotiations. The companies I work with at Complete Controller save thousands annually by implementing these strategic approaches.
My top tips from decades of negotiation
Success in fee negotiations comes from preparation, persistence, and professionalism. These strategies work whether you’re dealing with your personal bank or negotiating on behalf of your business.
Document every interaction with timestamps and representative names
Approach negotiations as problem-solving partnerships
Build rapport with representatives before making requests
Create fee-fighting templates for common situations
Train your team or family to spot and challenge questionable charges
Staying ahead of the game
Regulatory changes are making fee negotiations easier. The CFPB’s new rule capping overdraft fees at $5 will save families over $5 billion annually. Banks have already eliminated 97% of NSF fees, saving consumers nearly $2 billion yearly. These trends show that fighting fees isn’t just possible—it’s becoming expected.
Monitor regulatory changes affecting your service providers
Join consumer advocacy groups for fee-fighting resources
Share successful scripts with others facing similar charges
Build relationships before you need fee waivers
Treat fee management as ongoing financial hygiene
Conclusion
Having successfully waived thousands of dollars in fees for myself and Complete Controller clients, I know these strategies work when applied consistently and professionally. The data proves it—82% of people who ask for credit card fee waivers receive them, and banks lose valuable customers over surprise fees they could have waived.
Your financial health depends on challenging unnecessary charges rather than accepting them as inevitable. Start with one fee this week, apply these proven techniques, and build momentum toward comprehensive fee management. For personalized strategies tailored to your business’s specific fee challenges, connect with our expert team at Complete Controller for guidance that goes beyond generic advice to deliver real savings.
Frequently Asked Questions About get service fees waived
What types of service fees can typically be waived?
Bank maintenance fees, overdraft charges, credit card late fees, annual membership fees, SaaS subscription fees, telecommunication overage charges, and shipping fees are commonly waivable when you present valid reasons and maintain good customer standing.
How do I ask for a bank fee to be waived?
Contact your bank’s customer service, explain the specific fee you’re questioning, cite your account history and loyalty, provide any extenuating circumstances, and politely request a one-time courtesy waiver while maintaining professional communication throughout.
Does loyalty help get service fees waived?
Yes, customer loyalty significantly improves waiver success rates because companies spend approximately $561 to acquire new customers, making retention through fee waivers financially beneficial compared to losing long-term accounts.
What if my fee waiver request is denied?
After denial, request specific reasons in writing, ask what would qualify for approval, escalate to supervisors with expanded context, try alternative communication channels, and consider regulatory complaints for legitimate grievances.
Are there fees that can never be waived?
Government-mandated regulatory fees, court-ordered charges, third-party processing fees outside provider control, and some contractually guaranteed minimum fees typically cannot be waived, though providers may offer offsetting credits instead.
Sources
ASISTA. (2021). “Notes from Fee Waiver Listening Session with USCIS.” https://www.asista.org/
About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.
Jennifer BrazerFounder/CEO
Jennifer is the author of From Cubicle to Cloud and Founder/CEO of Complete Controller, a pioneering financial services firm that helps entrepreneurs break free of traditional constraints and scale their businesses to new heights.
Brittany McMillen is a seasoned Marketing Manager with a sharp eye for strategy and storytelling. With a background in digital marketing, brand development, and customer engagement, she brings a results-driven mindset to every project. Brittany specializes in crafting compelling content and optimizing user experiences that convert. When she’s not reviewing content, she’s exploring the latest marketing trends or championing small business success.
Always know that the interest rate is individually based on your financial situation. Even if the lenders or loan intermediaries show an excellent “off-interest rate,” you rarely manage to get that interest rate.
Do Not Apply For Too Much
Of course, it is tempting to borrow as much money as possible. Unfortunately, lenders’ evaluation systems do not work that way. The usual principle is that the more significant the loan amount, the changes in the interest rate. There may be nothing new or revolutionary for you. But it is easy to forget it once you are sitting there with your loan application.
Once and for all. You must seek the minimum amount you need.
Typically, lenders are more generous with loan amounts and interest once you have had a loan with them for a period. Provided you handle the payments that are.
Therefore, they are better if you extend your loan after a couple of months. Or even better after a year.
Use the “Right” Salary in the Application
Do you know the most critical parameter when applying for a personal loan?
You have an income of more than $70,000 per year, or if you have no income, you will not get a loan. There is no way past it. But I guess you have a salary of over $4,500 / month. Then, you will have no problem getting a loan. However, you must enter the correct salary.
I mean the highest salary you get from your employer by the proper compensation. So, you must track whether you will receive a salary increase or it may be time for a salary interview.
Remember that the lender always takes out a credit report showing the previous year’s taxed income. It means that it will not correspond to your specified salary if you have received or will receive a salary increase. But do not worry. You must submit your latest salary specifications verifying your new income.
Choose a Realistic Repayment Period on Your Loan
Instead, I would choose a repayment period of 3-7 years, which gives lower interest rates. In this way, you improve your risk profile for the lender.
And it would help if you never forgot that you can always make extra repayments whenever you want.
As I mentioned in tip # 1, it is easier to change your terms as you and the lender build relationships.
The lender can extend the loan period while maintaining the interest rate after a couple of months.
Find a Co-Borrower
The only problem is finding a person who trusts you fully. Then, that person, as I said, will be forced to repay the loan if you cannot afford it.
So, most likely, it’s a family member or maybe a close friend. Ensure you are clear about what you will use the money for and that you have made a budget. A budget that shows that you can repay the loan. In order not to disappoint the co-applicant.
Improve Your Credit Rating
The most crucial basis that the lender has for evaluating your loan application is credit information. The credit information usually obtained shows:
Your taxed income
Place of residence
Surplus capital
Existing debt
Payment remarks
Most recently requested credit reports
Do Not Apply to Several Different Lenders
It may sound strange; should you not expose several different lenders to compete against each other?
Both yes and no.
Once you fill out a loan request, a credit report is retrieved. Your credit report lists all the credit information collected in the last 12 months.
Compare Different Lenders
Of course, I take the most straightforward and crucial tip last. To get the lowest interest rate, you must compare different lenders against each other. But wait, you said it was negative, right? Yes, if you apply for a loan from several different lenders.
Instead, use a loan broker. A loan intermediary acts as an intermediary between you and various lenders. They collect ONE credit information from you, which they can share with several lenders.
If you are lucky, a lender wants to lend more money and offers good terms on their loans. Most lenders work with 20-40 different lenders. So, with a credit report, you can get offers from up to 44 other lenders.
About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.
How we retire will determine how our lives will be in the future.
To achieve the target number for retirement, we need to live as economically as possible, increase income, and maximize retirement savings.
Here are tips on what things need to happen before retiring to make it easier.
Plan Your Retirement Time
Between retiring at the end of 2021 and applying in January 2022, there is a significant difference in terms of pension. If you use it before the end of the year, you will be eligible for this year’s January and July pension hikes. If you apply in January 2022, you will use only the higher amount for your pension. In addition, there will be a difference in how the pension is calculated.
There is a specific difference in pension between retiring by the end of 2021 and applying in January 2022. If you use until the end of the year, you will add this year’s January and July pension increases to your pension. If you apply at the beginning of 2022, you will add only the increased amount to your retirement in January of the New Year. There will also be a difference in the determination of the pension.
The thing to do before the first retirement is to plan for retirement. If you plan to retire before the specified deadline, you must carefully plan.
This retirement plan must also pay attention to our needs for old age, including housing, financial planning, and what activities will be carried out during retirement.
If you feel you can’t decide for yourself, you can ask your partner or financial planner for advice. It is essential to get the views of others.
Also Read: Recognize 4 Signs We’re Not Ready to Retire Early, Don’t Take the Mistake.
Pay off Debt
Before the second retirement, the thing to do is pay off all debts. Make sure we record all debts or credits owned.
We can also stop using credit cards at retirement and start shopping with cash.
As we get nearer to retirement, we must ensure all debts, even the smallest ones, have been paid off. It is essential not to be overwhelmed by paying large debts but no more income.
Determine Monthly Expenses
Before the third retirement, the thing to do is determine the monthly expenses.
Of course, we need to look at how much money we need when we retire again—both monthly and annual expenses.
Don’t forget to consider the number of unexpected expenses that could occur. Ideally, we can discuss this with a partner to minimize the risk.
Also Read: This is a smart way to retire earlier so you can enjoy life. Do you have to be disciplined?
Save Pension Funds for Investment Instruments
Before the fourth retirement, the thing that you must do is save the pension funds into investment instruments with low risk.
We can still benefit from pension funds by putting them into low-risk investment instruments.
Please don’t take the risk by keeping it in high-risk instruments.
The pensions of those you first insured before 2000 and between 2000 and 2008 and those with insurance after 2008 are calculated differently. The pension is calculated according to the number of premium days, monthly average earnings, inflation, and growth rate in its simplest form. The pension amount multiplies the average monthly earnings with the monthly bonding rate calculated according to premium days. Average monthly payments are also calculated according to periodic consumer inflation and add 30% to the growth rate. The pension happens by multiplying the updated monthly earnings and the pension rate, and this salary is increased at the rate of past inflation.
Check Retirement Balance
The thing that you must do before the fifth retirement is to check the entire balance of the pension plan.
Employees usually get pension benefits from the company or the employer.
About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.
Master Competitor Analysis: Top Strategies for Success
Competitor analysis is the systematic process of identifying, evaluating, and tracking competitors’ strategies, strengths, weaknesses, and market positioning to uncover opportunities and threats that inform your business decisions. By mastering this discipline, businesses gain actionable insights to differentiate their offerings, optimize pricing, refine marketing tactics, and ultimately dominate their market.
Over 20 years as CEO of Complete Controller, I’ve witnessed firsthand how businesses transform uncertainty into strategy through rigorous competitor analysis. In fact, 61% of businesses report that competitive intelligence directly boosts revenue—a figure that’s jumped from 52% just four years ago. I’ll share the exact frameworks that helped our clients double their market share within 24 months, including the advanced strategies that 90% of Fortune 500 companies already use to maintain their edge.
What is competitor analysis and how does it drive success?
Competitor analysis decodes rivals’ strategies to uncover gaps in the market and inform your business decisions
It combines data collection (products, pricing, marketing) with strategic frameworks like SWOT and Porter’s Five Forces
Businesses using it reduce blind spots by 67% and increase customer acquisition by 42%
Companies that define clear goals and KPIs for competitor analysis are 78% more likely to see revenue growth
It shifts focus from reactive tactics to proactive market leadership
Core Components of a Comprehensive Competitor Analysis
Understanding the essential elements of competitor analysis starts with mapping your competitive landscape accurately. Direct competitors offer similar solutions—think QuickBooks versus FreshBooks for accounting software. Indirect competitors solve the same problem differently, like spreadsheets for financial tracking. Smart businesses prioritize competitors controlling more than 5% market share or those aggressively expanding into their niche.
Product evaluation goes beyond feature checklists. Create a comparison matrix tracking feature sets, pricing elasticity, discounts, and unique value propositions. When premium brands justify higher prices through superior support or exclusive integrations, document these differentiators. Track how competitors position themselves—some emphasize cost savings while others highlight innovation or customer service excellence.
Deconstructing marketing and sales tactics
Marketing analysis reveals competitor priorities through content themes, SEO keywords, social engagement patterns, and sales funnel efficiency. High-converting assets like Shopify’s “Free Trial” CTA or underutilized channels such as LinkedIn B2B outreach provide actionable insights. Tools like SimilarWeb track traffic sources and conversion paths, exposing competitor strengths and vulnerabilities in their customer acquisition strategies.
Step-by-Step Guide to Conducting Competitor Analysis
Phase 1: Goal setting and competitor prioritization
Define SMART goals that drive specific outcomes: “Identify three pricing weaknesses in Competitor X by Q3″ beats vague objectives. Rank competitors using an Impact-Effort Matrix—high-impact rivals like market leaders demand quarterly deep dives, while low-impact targets warrant monthly monitoring. This strategic prioritization prevents analysis paralysis while focusing resources on meaningful competitive threats.
Phase 2: Multisource data collection
Combine primary and secondary research for comprehensive insights:
Primary Research: Customer interviews reveal purchase motivations (“Why did you choose them over us?”)
Secondary Research: Mine earnings reports, review sites like G2 and Capterra, industry publications
Real-time Monitoring: Deploy Kompyte or Crayon for automated competitor alerts on pricing changes and feature launches
Phase 3: SWOT and strategic group mapping
Perform granular SWOT analysis with specific metrics. Document strengths like “80% customer retention rate” or weaknesses such as “lack of mobile app cited in 60% negative reviews.” Identify opportunities in untapped markets and threats from new patent filings. Visualize positioning through Strategic Group Maps plotting competitors across meaningful axes like “Price versus Features” or “Service Level versus Market Share.”
Advanced Frameworks for Strategic Insights
Porter’s five forces: Industry-level threat assessment
This framework gauges industry attractiveness across five dimensions. Competitive rivalry intensifies with more than five equal players competing for market share. Supplier power remains low when materials are commoditized. Buyer power increases in B2C markets with minimal switching costs. New entrant threats depend on regulatory barriers and capital requirements. Substitute products pose risks when alternatives deliver similar value—think e-books versus audiobooks competing for reader attention.
VRIO analysis: Sustainable advantage scoring
Evaluate competitive resources through four lenses:
Valuable: Does it boost revenue or customer loyalty measurably?
Rare: Do fewer than 15% of competitors offer this capability?
Costly to Imitate: Are patents, complex R&D, or network effects protecting it?
Organized to Exploit: Does operational infrastructure support scaling this advantage?
Turning Data into Action: Competitive Strategy Execution
Exploiting competitor weaknesses
When rivals show vulnerability—like customer service scores dropping to 3.2/5 on Trustpilot—counter strategically. Add 24/7 live chat if they lack it. Bundle services at 20% discounts targeting their dissatisfied clients. One B2B SaaS client captured 40% of a competitor’s churned users by offering free migration services, demonstrating how operational gaps become growth opportunities.
The Netflix versus Blockbuster saga illustrates the fatal cost of ignoring competitor innovations. Blockbuster dismissed Netflix’s mail-in DVD model and streaming technology, rejecting a $50 million acquisition offer in 2000. By 2010, Blockbuster filed bankruptcy while Netflix grew to 269.6 million subscribers by exploiting market gaps like eliminating late fees and embracing technology shifts.
Anticipating moves with early-signal tracking
Monitor job postings revealing expansion plans—”German Market Manager” signals international growth. Beta-test leaks expose feature updates before launch. Supplier relationship changes indicate cost restructuring initiatives. Set Google Alerts for patent filings, funding rounds, and executive movements to stay ahead of competitor pivots.
Essential Tools for Modern Competitor Analysis
AI-Powered Platforms
Modern competitive intelligence demands sophisticated automation. Businesses using AI for competitor analysis reduce customer acquisition costs by up to 50% and identify market opportunities 4x faster than manual methods.
Crayon: Detects pricing anomalies through AI-driven anomaly detection
Klue: Synthesizes thousands of reviews into sentiment-tagged themes (“Billing complaints: 32%”)
SEO and content analysis stack
Semrush Keyword Gap: Uncovers untapped keywords by comparing domain rankings
Ahrefs Content Explorer: Identifies top-performing competitor content by social shares
HubSpot SEO Tool: Audits backlink profiles revealing link-building opportunities
Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Competitive Analysis
Surface metrics mislead without context. A competitor’s traffic drop might stem from algorithm penalties rather than strategic failures. Sales enablement platform Highspot exemplifies proper analysis—they used win-loss interviews discovering competitors’ complex onboarding weaknesses. By redesigning their customer journey addressing these gaps, they increased conversion rates by 18% and reduced churn significantly.
Final Thoughts
After two decades helping businesses navigate complex financial landscapes, I’ve learned that competitor analysis transforms from task to strategic discipline when done right. The frameworks outlined here—from SWOT analysis to AI-powered monitoring—provide the foundation for market domination. Success comes from consistent application, turning insights into action, and staying ahead of market shifts. Ready to implement these strategies with expert guidance? Connect with our team at Complete Controller to accelerate your competitive advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Competitor Analysis
What is the main purpose of competitor analysis?
The main purpose is understanding competitors’ strategies to identify market opportunities, anticipate threats, and make informed decisions that create sustainable competitive advantages for your business.
How often should I conduct competitor analysis?
Treat it as an ongoing discipline with comprehensive quarterly reviews and continuous monitoring of key competitors through automated tools tracking pricing, features, and market movements.
What are the most common mistakes in competitor analysis?
Common mistakes include focusing only on direct competitors, relying on outdated data, surface-level metric tracking, and failing to convert insights into actionable strategic initiatives.
Can small businesses benefit from competitor analysis?
Absolutely. Small businesses use competitive intelligence to find underserved niches, compete effectively against larger players, and avoid costly head-to-head battles with industry giants.
What tools are essential for competitor analysis?
Essential tools include AI platforms like Kompyte for real-time monitoring, SEO tools like Semrush for content analysis, and social listening tools for tracking sentiment and market trends.
About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.
Jennifer BrazerFounder/CEO
Jennifer is the author of From Cubicle to Cloud and Founder/CEO of Complete Controller, a pioneering financial services firm that helps entrepreneurs break free of traditional constraints and scale their businesses to new heights.
Brittany McMillen is a seasoned Marketing Manager with a sharp eye for strategy and storytelling. With a background in digital marketing, brand development, and customer engagement, she brings a results-driven mindset to every project. Brittany specializes in crafting compelling content and optimizing user experiences that convert. When she’s not reviewing content, she’s exploring the latest marketing trends or championing small business success.
Choosing the most suitable capital company types will help you know the common aspects and differences between limited and joint-stock companies. These two types of companies are different in terms of the responsibilities of their partners, capital, company organs, and Transfer of share transactions. The good sides that can enable public limited companies to be preferred over limited companies constitute the scope of our study.
What is a Private Limited Company?
The partners are not accountable for the company’s debts for their assets. Actual and legal persons with more shareholders can create them. They can operate in all economic issues not prohibited by the law. At least one partner has the right to manage and represent the company, and the number of partners is 50.
What is a Public Limited Company?
Legal persons with one or more shareholders can establish a company type. It can operate for all economic purposes and issues not prohibited by law, and the number of partners can be unlimited. The commercial volume of the joint-stock company is also high. It is also open to the interest of investors as they can do share transfers easily.
Advantages of the public limited company over the private limited company
Capital amount and payment of capital
The primary capital, which represents the capital fully committed in the articles of association, is 50.000 TL. The initial capital cannot be less than 100.000 TL in non-public joint-stock companies accepting the registered capital system. A company can be established with a capital of at least 10,000 TL in limited companies.
Registered capital system
It is possible to accept the “Registered Capital System” in all INCs, regardless of whether they are public or not. The Board of Directors is authorized to increase the capital to the registered capital ceiling without holding the general assembly meeting.
Number of partners
The number of partners in limited companies is at least one and 50. Joint-stock companies can have a minimum of 1 and a maximum of 500 shareholders. The existence of more than 500 shareholders is possible by being a public company. Of course, for companies established with special permission, the limitations in the relevant legislation apply.
Going public and issuing bonds
Corporations have the opportunity to go public and issue bonds. However, Limited Companies do not have the chance to go public and issue bonds.
Equity and equity printing
Share certificates can be the bearer or registered. Bearer share certificates cannot be issued for shares whose values have not been fully paid.
Limited companies cannot issue bearer shares. They can print a “registered share certificate” but only use it to prove a partnership. There is no tax advantage in selling registered shares of limited companies. It will be subject to tax-like Transfer. This situation is discussed extensively in the following sections of our study.
Share transfer
The Transfer of share certificates is valid for the company and third parties only by transferring the possession. There is no obligation to move before a notary public to be approved or registered at the general assembly.
In limited companies, the Transfer of the basic capital share and the transactions that cause the transferred debt are made in written form, and the parties’ signatures are notarized. You must register share transfer approval with the Trade Registry. There is a stamp duty on the sale of restricted company shares.
Obligation to work with a lawyer
It is not obligatory to work with a lawyer for limited companies. Still, if the capital amount is over 250,000 TL in joint-stock companies, it is mandatory to work with a lawyer.
The legal basis for the obligation to have a lawyer in joint-stock companies is included in the third paragraph of Article 35 of the Attorney ship Law No. 1136 [1].
Management rights and representation authority
According to Article 365 of the Law, as mentioned above, the joint-stock company is managed and represented by the directors.
In joint-stock companies, at least one of the partners is not obliged to be a manager or representative of the board of directors.
Corporate management
Joint-stock companies are more advantageous in terms of organization and corporate identity creation. It also creates a perception of a more reputable and prestigious company identity to the outside. Being a joint-stock company, The Company will cease to be a family business and gain a corporate appearance.
Tax advantages of joint-stock companies
Joint stock companies are subject to corporate tax law with rules similar to those of other capital companies. There is no difference in deductible expenses or expenses that are not legally accepted, and the calculated financial profit is subject to 20% (22% in 2018-2019) corporate tax.
Corporations are subject to special permission
By the Communiqué on the Raising of the Capital of Joint Stock and Limited Companies to New Minimum Amounts and the Determination of the Establishment and the Determination of the Joint Stock Companies Subject to the Permission to Amend the Articles of Association [5], the companies whose establishment and amendments to the articles of association are subject to the permission of the Ministry of Customs and Trade are as follows:
Banks
Financial leasing companies
Factoring companies
Consumer finance and card services companies
Asset management companies
Insurance companies
Holdings established as joint-stock companies
Companies operating foreign exchange kiosks, companies dealing with public merchandising
About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.
Jennifer BrazerFounder/CEO
Jennifer is the author of From Cubicle to Cloud and Founder/CEO of Complete Controller, a pioneering financial services firm that helps entrepreneurs break free of traditional constraints and scale their businesses to new heights.
Brittany McMillen is a seasoned Marketing Manager with a sharp eye for strategy and storytelling. With a background in digital marketing, brand development, and customer engagement, she brings a results-driven mindset to every project. Brittany specializes in crafting compelling content and optimizing user experiences that convert. When she’s not reviewing content, she’s exploring the latest marketing trends or championing small business success.
Bankruptcy is a federal measure that allows people in debt to start fresh.
This legal process can protect you from your creditors. Bankruptcy proceedings, which are not for everyone with debt, can be helpful, depending on your circumstances. There is more than one bankruptcy proceeding type—five different types. The two most common are Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 proceedings.
Usually, when people talk about “declaring bankruptcy,” they mean Chapter 7. Chapter 7 is the procedure that allows you to erase everything, avoiding almost all your debts without making any more payments in the future.
There are strict limits on how often a person can file for Chapter 7 proceedings.
Chapter 13 is a different type of settlement. It allows you to consolidate your debts and pay off all or part of them while protecting you from being harassed by your creditors.
It is often an excellent alternative when the Consumer Credit Council or Chapter 7 are not available options.
Understanding Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
Bankruptcy 13 gives you a fixed term to resolve your financial arrears. After analyzing your finances, we can propose a payment plan for 3 to 5 years to the Court.
The 13 bankruptcy is different from the 7. It requires monthly payments based on income and is aimed at people who cannot file a seven-bankruptcy due to their financial resources.
Several conditions must be met to file a 13 bankruptcy successfully. You must earn enough to convince the Court that you have money available from your income and propose a payment plan to repay your debt.
If you cannot develop a reasonable repayment plan, the Court will not approve the bankruptcy 13.
Bankruptcy 13 also allows you to cut the payment of second mortgages on the debtor’s residence when the estate’s value is less than the balance of the first mortgage. It also allows you to reduce your secured debt balance to a pledged personal property value. In this sense, in in-vehicle loans, the debt can be divided into guaranteed and unsecured, and you can pay only the guaranteed amount according to the asset’s current value.
A second mortgage elimination action will be treated as unsecured debt and partially paid in the payment plan. Similarly, with vehicles, the debt is only paid up to the asset’s market value, and the non-guaranteed balance is partially paid within the plan.
Understanding Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
Bankruptcy protects you from collection agencies, wage garnishments, bank account garnishments, foreclosures on your home, and vehicle repossessions. The Court issues an automatic stop and collection order that protects you from these actions from the first day of bankruptcy.
If you are not yet in a collection but can no longer handle your credit card debt, medical bills, personal loans, repossessions, etc., we can help you.
If you are in long-term delinquency or facing an impending foreclosure on your home or repossession of your vehicle, we can help.
If your situation is one of the above, Chapter 7 can provide you with the protection you need and help you get ahead. Allow attorney Jorge Halperin to guide you.
Understand Chapter 11 Bankruptcy
Chapter 11 allows a business to reorganize its operations and finances while continuing day-to-day operations.
How Long Does the Bankruptcy Process Take?
After Chapter 7 bankruptcy is filed, it generally takes three months to complete.
Of the creditors: However, when bankruptcy is filed, you are effectively discharged of your debts. If all your aid is exempt, and no one objects to your discharge, you will receive your discharge of debts about 60 days after the filing. (This meeting happens about 30 days after you file the petition that starts the case.) The terms for chapter 13 are different.
The Chapter 13 plan usually is three years, although you can extend it to five years under certain circumstances.
If you filed a Chapter 7 bankruptcy and got a discharge of your debts, you must wait eight years before filing another Chapter 7.
You cannot get a discharge in a Chapter 13 case if you have received the following:
A settlement in a prior Chapter 7, 11, or 12 patients that you filed in the four years before the current Chapter 13
However, there are circumstances where you can initially file a Chapter 7 and later a Chapter 13 in less time. Talk to a bankruptcy attorney to see if this approach (known as Chapter 20) is appropriate for your circumstances.
Do I Need an Attorney to File for Bankruptcy?
Individuals and sole proprietors are not required by law to retain an attorney. But you may want to discuss an attorney to ensure that bankruptcy is the best option for you and, if so, that you are taking the proper steps to file.
Also, know that filling out all the required documents can be difficult. If you do this independently, you can get an information packet by contacting the Bankruptcy Court.
About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.
About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.
