How To Ask For Money? A Comprehensive Guide

How To Ask For Money? At money-central.com, we understand that navigating the world of finance and securing funding can be challenging; with effective communication and a strategic approach, it’s entirely possible. Learning the art of requesting financial support involves understanding your audience, framing your needs effectively, and building strong, lasting relationships. Whether it’s for a personal project, a non-profit organization, or a business venture, this guide provides you with expert advice, actionable strategies, and key insights to master the art of solicitation, financial resources, and fundraising efforts.

1. Why Asking For Money Is So Difficult?

Asking for money can be difficult due to a mix of psychological, social, and practical reasons; many find it challenging due to the fear of rejection, discomfort with discussing finances, and the potential impact on relationships. Overcoming these barriers involves understanding the underlying issues, developing confidence, and adopting a thoughtful, strategic approach.

1.1 Psychological Factors

Here are the main psychological factors that are often involved in the process:

Fear of Rejection: The possibility of being turned down can be a significant deterrent. Rejection can feel personal, leading to feelings of inadequacy or embarrassment.
Discomfort with Money: Money is often a taboo topic. Many people are raised not to discuss finances openly, making it awkward to ask for money, which often stems from societal norms.
Low Self-Worth: People may feel they are not worthy of financial support, which can stem from deeper issues of self-esteem and confidence.
Perceived Loss of Control: Asking for money can make individuals feel vulnerable and dependent, leading to a sense of losing control over their financial situation.

1.2 Social Factors

These social factors make asking for money a daunting task:

Social Stigma: There’s a social stigma associated with asking for money. It can be seen as begging or taking advantage of others, leading to shame.
Impact on Relationships: Asking for money can strain relationships. People worry about how the request might change the dynamics with friends, family, or colleagues.
Fear of Judgment: People may fear being judged as greedy, irresponsible, or incapable of managing their finances, which is a concern about how one will be perceived.
Cultural Norms: Cultural attitudes toward money and asking for help vary. Some cultures may frown upon openly soliciting financial assistance.

1.3 Practical Factors

Practical factors should be carefully considered:

Lack of Experience: Many people simply lack experience in asking for money. Without a clear strategy or understanding of how to frame their request, they may feel unprepared.
Unclear Needs: If you can’t articulate exactly why you need the money and what it will be used for, it becomes difficult to convince others to provide support.
No Compelling Story: A compelling narrative is crucial. Without a story that resonates emotionally, it’s hard to capture the attention and empathy of potential donors.
Poor Timing: Asking at the wrong time, such as when the other person is stressed or facing their own financial difficulties, can lead to a negative outcome.
Lack of Trust: Without an established relationship or a history of trustworthiness, people may be hesitant to provide financial support.

2. How To Overcome The Psychological Barriers?

Overcoming the psychological barriers involves addressing the emotional and mental roadblocks that make asking for money difficult; this requires building confidence, reframing your mindset, and developing a positive attitude toward financial requests. Each strategy below is designed to help you approach the task with greater ease and assurance.

2.1 Build Confidence

Building confidence is crucial to overcoming the reluctance to ask for money; by believing in yourself and the value of your cause, you can approach potential donors with greater assurance and conviction. Self-confidence enhances your ability to communicate effectively and handle any challenges that may arise during the fundraising process.

Acknowledge Your Value: Recognize the worth of your project or cause. Understand how it benefits others and the positive impact it can have.
Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate every small achievement. This builds momentum and reinforces your capabilities.
Positive Self-Talk: Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations. Tell yourself you are capable, worthy, and deserving of support.
Prepare and Practice: The more prepared you are, the more confident you’ll feel. Practice your pitch and anticipate potential questions or objections.
Seek Feedback: Ask trusted friends, mentors, or colleagues for feedback on your approach. Constructive criticism can help you refine your message and delivery.

2.2 Reframe Your Mindset

Reframing your mindset involves changing how you perceive the act of asking for money; rather than viewing it as begging, consider it as offering an opportunity for others to invest in something meaningful and impactful. Shifting your perspective can alleviate feelings of discomfort and empower you to approach potential donors with a more positive and confident attitude.

Focus on the Opportunity: Frame your request as an opportunity for others to make a difference. Emphasize the positive outcomes and impact they can help create.
It’s Not About You: Remind yourself that you are asking for money for a purpose larger than yourself. Focus on the cause and the beneficiaries.
Offer Value: Think about what you can offer in return, whether it’s recognition, a product, or a service. This creates a sense of mutual benefit.
Believe in Your Cause: When you genuinely believe in your cause, it’s easier to ask others to support it. Passion is contagious and can inspire others to give.
See It as Collaboration: Reframe the request as a collaborative effort. You are inviting others to join you in achieving a shared goal.

2.3 Develop a Positive Attitude

Developing a positive attitude is key to successfully asking for money; a positive outlook not only makes you more approachable but also enhances your resilience in the face of potential rejection. By maintaining optimism and enthusiasm, you can create a more engaging and persuasive fundraising approach.

Visualize Success: Imagine successful outcomes and focus on the positive aspects of your request. This can help reduce anxiety and increase your motivation.
Stay Optimistic: Maintain an optimistic outlook, even when faced with setbacks. Believe that you will eventually find the support you need.
Practice Gratitude: Express gratitude to those who have supported you in the past. This reinforces a positive cycle of giving and receiving.
Learn from Rejection: Don’t take rejection personally. View it as a learning opportunity and use it to refine your approach for future requests.
Surround Yourself with Positivity: Seek out supportive and encouraging people who believe in you and your cause. Their positivity can be contagious.

3. How To Identify Potential Donors?

Identifying potential donors is a critical step in successful fundraising; this involves researching and targeting individuals or organizations that are likely to support your cause or project. Effective donor identification maximizes your chances of securing funding by focusing your efforts on those most receptive to your mission and values.

3.1 Research and Targeting

Effective research and targeting are essential for identifying potential donors who align with your cause or project; understanding their interests, values, and giving history allows you to tailor your approach and increase your chances of securing their support.

Understand Your Cause: Clearly define your mission, values, and goals. This will help you identify donors who share similar interests.
Review Past Donors: Analyze your existing donor base to identify common characteristics and interests. This can provide valuable insights for targeting new prospects.
Use Online Tools: Utilize online databases and search engines to research potential donors. Tools like Foundation Directory Online can help you find foundations that align with your cause.
Social Media: Explore social media platforms to identify individuals and organizations that support similar causes. Engage with their content to build connections.
Attend Networking Events: Participate in industry conferences, fundraising galas, and community events to meet potential donors in person.

3.2 Assessing Capacity and Inclination

Assessing capacity and inclination is vital for prioritizing potential donors; capacity refers to their financial ability to give, while inclination reflects their willingness to support your cause. By evaluating both factors, you can focus your efforts on those who are most likely to provide substantial support.

Capacity:
- Wealth Indicators: Look for indicators of wealth, such as real estate holdings, business ownership, and philanthropic activities.
- Public Records: Review public records to assess their financial standing. This may include property records, stock holdings, and business affiliations.
- Giving History: Research their past giving to other organizations. This can provide insights into their capacity and willingness to donate.
Inclination:
- Alignment with Your Cause: Determine if their values and interests align with your mission. Look for connections to similar causes or organizations.
- Personal Connections: Identify any personal connections to your organization or cause. This can significantly increase their likelihood of support.
- Past Involvement: Assess their past involvement with your organization or similar causes. This may include volunteering, attending events, or making small donations.

3.3 Building a Donor Database

Building a comprehensive donor database is crucial for managing and tracking potential and existing donors; this database should include detailed information about their interests, giving history, and interactions with your organization. A well-maintained database facilitates personalized communication and targeted fundraising efforts, ultimately enhancing your ability to secure and retain donors.

Data Collection:
- Contact Information: Collect essential contact details, including names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses.
- Demographic Data: Gather demographic information such as age, gender, occupation, and education level.
- Giving History: Record all donations, including amounts, dates, and designations.
- Interests and Affiliations: Document their interests, hobbies, and affiliations with other organizations.
Database Management:
- CRM Software: Use Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software to manage your donor database. Popular options include Salesforce, DonorPerfect, and Bloomerang.
- Data Segmentation: Segment your donor database based on demographics, giving history, and interests. This allows for targeted communication and personalized appeals.
- Regular Updates: Regularly update your donor database to ensure accuracy. This includes verifying contact information, recording new donations, and updating donor profiles.

4. How To Craft A Compelling Ask?

Crafting a compelling ask is essential for successful fundraising; it involves creating a persuasive and emotionally resonant message that clearly articulates your needs, highlights the impact of potential donations, and inspires potential donors to support your cause.

4.1 Clearly Define Your Needs

Clearly defining your needs is the first step in crafting a compelling ask; potential donors need to understand exactly what you are asking for and why it is necessary. Specificity builds trust and demonstrates that you have a clear plan for utilizing their contribution effectively.

Be Specific: Clearly state the amount of money you need and what it will be used for. Avoid vague requests.
Outline Project Goals: Explain the goals of your project or cause and how the funds will help achieve these goals.
Provide a Budget: Offer a detailed budget that shows how the money will be allocated. This demonstrates transparency and responsible financial planning.
Explain the Impact: Clearly articulate the impact of the funds. How will the donation make a difference? What positive outcomes will it create?
Highlight Urgency: If there is a time-sensitive need, emphasize the urgency. Why is it important to act now?

4.2 Highlight The Impact

Highlighting the impact is crucial for motivating potential donors to give; by demonstrating the positive outcomes and tangible differences their contribution can make, you create an emotional connection and inspire them to support your cause.

Tell Stories: Share personal stories that illustrate the impact of your work. These stories should be compelling and emotionally resonant.
Use Data and Statistics: Back up your stories with data and statistics. Quantify the impact of your work to show tangible results.
Showcase Successes: Highlight past successes and achievements. This demonstrates that your organization is effective and capable of making a difference.
Visualize the Future: Paint a picture of the future that is possible with their support. Help them see the potential for positive change.
Connect to Values: Align your impact with the values and interests of potential donors. Show them how their donation will support causes they care about.

4.3 Personalize Your Approach

Personalizing your approach is key to making a strong connection with potential donors; tailoring your message to their interests, values, and past giving history shows that you value their individual contribution and understand what motivates them to give.

Research Donors: Before making your ask, research potential donors to understand their interests, values, and giving history.
Address Them by Name: Use their name in your communication. This shows that you are making a personal connection.
Reference Past Support: Acknowledge any past support they have provided. Show that you appreciate their ongoing commitment.
Tailor Your Message: Tailor your message to their specific interests and values. Explain how their donation will support causes they care about.
Offer Personalized Recognition: Offer personalized recognition for their donation. This could include naming opportunities, special events, or public acknowledgments.

5. How To Choose The Right Time And Place?

Choosing the right time and place is essential for maximizing the success of your fundraising efforts; timing can significantly impact a potential donor’s receptiveness to your request, while the environment can influence their comfort and willingness to engage.

5.1 Consider The Donor’s Circumstances

Considering the donor’s circumstances is vital for choosing the right time to make your request; being mindful of their personal and professional lives, as well as any current events that may affect their financial situation or emotional state, shows respect and increases the likelihood of a positive response.

Personal Events: Be aware of any major personal events in their life, such as birthdays, anniversaries, or significant milestones. Avoid asking during times of personal stress or celebration.
Professional Commitments: Consider their professional commitments and avoid asking during busy periods or major deadlines.
Financial Situation: Be mindful of their financial situation. Avoid asking when they may be facing financial challenges or economic uncertainty.
Current Events: Be aware of current events that may impact their emotional state or financial priorities. Avoid asking during times of crisis or tragedy.
Previous Interactions: Reflect on your previous interactions with the donor. Consider their past responses and adjust your timing accordingly.

5.2 Select An Appropriate Setting

Selecting an appropriate setting is crucial for creating a comfortable and conducive environment for your fundraising request; the right setting can foster open communication, build trust, and increase the likelihood of a positive response from potential donors.

Private and Quiet: Choose a private and quiet setting where you can have an uninterrupted conversation. This could be a private office, a quiet corner in a restaurant, or a virtual meeting.
Comfortable and Relaxing: Opt for a comfortable and relaxing environment that puts the donor at ease. Avoid settings that are stressful or overwhelming.
Neutral Location: Select a neutral location that is not associated with any negative experiences or emotions. This could be a coffee shop, a park, or a virtual meeting platform.
Convenient and Accessible: Choose a location that is convenient and accessible for the donor. Consider their preferences and transportation options.
Professional and Respectful: Ensure the setting is professional and respectful. Avoid settings that are too casual or informal.

5.3 Be Mindful Of Seasonal Giving Patterns

Being mindful of seasonal giving patterns can significantly enhance your fundraising efforts; understanding when donors are most likely to give, such as during the holiday season or at the end of the fiscal year, allows you to strategically time your requests for maximum impact.

Year-End Giving: Many donors make charitable contributions at the end of the year for tax purposes. Plan your fundraising campaigns accordingly.
Holiday Season: The holiday season is a time of increased generosity. Consider launching a holiday-themed campaign to capitalize on this trend.
Giving Tuesday: Giving Tuesday, which falls on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, is a global day of giving. Participate in this event to raise awareness and solicit donations.
Spring Fundraising: Spring is often a good time for fundraising events and campaigns. People are generally more optimistic and willing to engage in charitable activities.
Summer Slump: Be aware that giving may slow down during the summer months. Consider adjusting your fundraising strategy accordingly.

6. How To Deliver Your Ask?

Delivering your ask effectively is essential for securing financial support; this involves communicating your needs and the impact of potential donations in a clear, confident, and persuasive manner. A well-delivered ask can inspire potential donors to support your cause and make a meaningful contribution.

6.1 Practice Active Listening

Practicing active listening is a crucial skill for effective communication during fundraising; by fully engaging with potential donors, understanding their perspectives, and responding thoughtfully, you can build rapport, address their concerns, and demonstrate that you value their input.

Pay Attention: Focus your full attention on the donor. Avoid distractions and give them your undivided focus.
Show That You Are Listening: Use verbal and nonverbal cues to show that you are engaged. Nod, make eye contact, and use encouraging words.
Provide Feedback: Paraphrase and summarize what the donor has said to ensure you understand their message correctly.
Defer Judgment: Avoid interrupting or judging the donor’s comments. Listen with an open mind and a willingness to understand their perspective.
Respond Appropriately: Respond thoughtfully and respectfully to the donor’s comments. Address their concerns and answer their questions honestly.

6.2 Be Confident And Passionate

Confidence and passion are contagious qualities that can significantly enhance your fundraising efforts; when you believe in your cause and convey your enthusiasm authentically, you inspire potential donors to share your vision and support your mission.

Believe in Your Cause: Your belief in your cause should be evident in your words and actions. Let your passion shine through.
Speak with Conviction: Speak confidently and assertively about your needs and the impact of potential donations.
Share Your Story: Share your personal story and explain why you are passionate about the cause.
Use Positive Language: Use positive and uplifting language to inspire and motivate potential donors.
Maintain Eye Contact: Maintain eye contact to convey sincerity and build trust.

6.3 Be Prepared To Answer Questions

Being prepared to answer questions is essential for building trust and demonstrating credibility during fundraising; potential donors will likely have questions about your organization, your project, and how their donation will be used. Providing clear, honest, and thorough answers can alleviate their concerns and encourage them to give.

Know Your Organization: Be thoroughly familiar with your organization’s mission, programs, and financial history.
Understand Your Project: Have a deep understanding of the project you are fundraising for, including its goals, budget, and timeline.
Anticipate Questions: Anticipate the questions that potential donors may ask and prepare your answers in advance.
Be Honest and Transparent: Answer questions honestly and transparently. If you don’t know the answer, admit it and offer to find out.
Provide Supporting Materials: Offer supporting materials, such as brochures, annual reports, and financial statements, to provide additional information.

7. How To Handle Objections And Rejection?

Handling objections and rejection gracefully is a critical skill in fundraising; not every potential donor will be able to support your cause, and it’s important to be prepared to address their concerns or accept their decision with professionalism and understanding.

7.1 Acknowledge And Validate Concerns

Acknowledging and validating concerns is a key step in addressing objections during fundraising; by recognizing and understanding the potential donor’s perspective, you demonstrate empathy and build trust, which can open the door to further dialogue and potential resolution.

Listen Attentively: Pay close attention to the donor’s concerns and ask clarifying questions to ensure you understand their perspective.
Show Empathy: Express empathy and acknowledge the validity of their concerns. Let them know that you understand their point of view.
Use Reflective Statements: Use reflective statements to summarize their concerns and show that you are actively listening.
Avoid Dismissing Concerns: Avoid dismissing or downplaying their concerns. Treat them with respect and seriousness.
Seek Common Ground: Look for areas of agreement or common ground to build rapport and establish a connection.

7.2 Provide Additional Information

Providing additional information can be an effective way to address objections and alleviate concerns during fundraising; by offering clear, accurate, and compelling details about your organization, project, and the impact of potential donations, you can build trust and encourage potential donors to reconsider their position.

Offer Facts and Data: Provide facts and data to support your claims and address any misconceptions.
Share Success Stories: Share success stories and testimonials to illustrate the impact of your work.
Provide Financial Transparency: Offer financial transparency by sharing your organization’s budget, annual report, and financial statements.
Explain Your Approach: Clearly explain your approach to problem-solving and how you plan to achieve your goals.
Highlight Your Expertise: Highlight your expertise and qualifications to demonstrate your credibility and competence.

7.3 Maintain A Positive Attitude

Maintaining a positive attitude is essential when facing objections and rejection during fundraising; a positive outlook not only helps you stay resilient but also creates a more favorable impression, potentially leaving the door open for future support.

Stay Optimistic: Maintain an optimistic outlook and believe that you will eventually find the support you need.
Avoid Taking It Personally: Don’t take rejection personally. Remember that there may be many reasons why a donor is unable to give.
Learn From The Experience: Use rejection as an opportunity to learn and improve your approach for future requests.
Focus On The Positive: Focus on the positive aspects of the interaction and express gratitude for the donor’s time and consideration.
Maintain A Professional Demeanor: Maintain a professional demeanor at all times, even in the face of rejection.

8. How To Follow Up After The Ask?

Following up after the ask is a crucial step in the fundraising process; whether the potential donor has agreed to give or not, a timely and thoughtful follow-up can strengthen relationships, reinforce your message, and potentially lead to future support.

8.1 Send A Thank-You Note

Sending a thank-you note is a fundamental step in showing appreciation to potential donors, regardless of their decision; a prompt, personalized, and sincere thank-you note demonstrates respect, strengthens relationships, and reinforces the positive impact of their consideration.

Send It Promptly: Send the thank-you note as soon as possible after the interaction.
Personalize The Message: Personalize the message to reflect the specific conversation and the donor’s interests.
Express Gratitude: Clearly express your gratitude for their time, consideration, and potential support.
Highlight The Impact: Reiterate the impact of their donation and how it will make a difference.
Keep It Concise: Keep the thank-you note concise and to the point.

8.2 Keep Donors Informed

Keeping donors informed is essential for maintaining transparency and building trust; by providing regular updates on your progress, impact, and financial stewardship, you demonstrate accountability and reinforce their decision to support your cause.

Provide Regular Updates: Provide regular updates on your progress and achievements.
Share Impact Stories: Share stories and testimonials to illustrate the impact of their donations.
Offer Financial Transparency: Offer financial transparency by sharing your organization’s budget, annual report, and financial statements.
Invite Feedback: Invite feedback and suggestions from donors to show that you value their input.
Acknowledge Their Contributions: Acknowledge their contributions and recognize their support in your communications.

8.3 Nurture The Relationship

Nurturing the relationship is key to building long-term partnerships with donors; by staying connected, showing appreciation, and involving them in your work, you foster a sense of belonging and encourage continued support.

Stay In Touch: Stay in touch with donors through regular communications, such as newsletters, emails, and social media posts.
Invite Them To Events: Invite them to events and activities to give them a firsthand experience of your work.
Offer Volunteer Opportunities: Offer volunteer opportunities to involve them in your organization’s activities.
Recognize Their Support: Recognize their support publicly and privately to show your appreciation.
Personalize Your Interactions: Personalize your interactions by remembering their interests, preferences, and past contributions.

9. How Money-Central.Com Can Help?

Money-central.com offers a wealth of resources to help you effectively manage and grow your finances; from expert articles and comprehensive guides to user-friendly tools and personalized advice, our platform provides the support you need to achieve your financial goals.

9.1 Resources and Tools

Money-central.com provides a variety of resources and tools designed to help you with all aspects of financial planning and management; our platform is regularly updated with the latest information and insights to ensure you have the knowledge and tools you need to succeed.

Articles and Guides: Access a library of articles and guides covering topics such as budgeting, saving, investing, debt management, and retirement planning.
Financial Calculators: Use our financial calculators to estimate loan payments, calculate savings goals, and plan for retirement.
Budgeting Templates: Download customizable budgeting templates to track your income and expenses.
Investment Tools: Explore our investment tools to research stocks, mutual funds, and other investment options.
Educational Resources: Access educational resources, such as webinars, tutorials, and infographics, to enhance your financial literacy.

9.2 Expert Advice And Guidance

Money-central.com provides access to expert advice and guidance to help you make informed financial decisions; our team of experienced financial professionals offers personalized support and insights to help you navigate complex financial challenges.

Financial Planning: Receive personalized financial planning advice to help you achieve your financial goals.
Investment Strategies: Learn about different investment strategies and how to build a diversified portfolio.
Debt Management: Get guidance on managing and reducing debt, including credit card debt, student loans, and mortgages.
Retirement Planning: Plan for retirement with our expert advice on savings, investments, and Social Security.
Tax Planning: Understand how to minimize your tax liability and maximize your financial well-being.

9.3 Community Support

Money-central.com offers a supportive community where you can connect with other individuals who are passionate about financial well-being; share your experiences, ask questions, and learn from others in a collaborative and encouraging environment.

Forums and Discussion Boards: Participate in forums and discussion boards to share your experiences and ask questions.
Expert Q&A Sessions: Attend live Q&A sessions with financial experts to get your questions answered.
Success Stories: Read success stories from other users to gain inspiration and motivation.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with other individuals who are passionate about financial well-being.
Support Groups: Join support groups to share your challenges and receive encouragement from others.

10. FAQ

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions:

10.1 Is It Ever Okay To Ask For Money Online?

Yes, it is okay to ask for money online, especially through crowdfunding platforms, social media for personal causes, or through your website for business or non-profit purposes; transparency and a compelling story are key.

10.2 How Do I Ask For Money Without Feeling Ashamed?

Focus on the value you or your project brings, frame it as an opportunity for others to contribute to something meaningful, and remember that it’s okay to ask for support when you need it.

10.3 What Are Some Creative Ways To Ask For Money?

Consider hosting a fundraising event, launching a crowdfunding campaign with creative rewards, or creating engaging content that tells a story about your cause to attract donors.

10.4 How Do I Follow Up With Someone Who Said They Would Donate?

Send a thank-you note for their pledge, and follow up with a gentle reminder closer to the date they indicated they would donate, making it easy for them to fulfill their commitment.

10.5 What If Someone Says No?

Accept their decision gracefully, thank them for their time and consideration, and maintain a positive relationship for potential future opportunities.

10.6 How Can I Improve My Chances Of Getting A Yes?

Research your potential donors, tailor your request to their interests, clearly communicate your needs and the impact of their contribution, and build a strong, trusting relationship.

10.7 How Important Is Transparency When Asking For Money?

Transparency is crucial; clearly explain how the money will be used, provide regular updates on your progress, and be honest about any challenges you face to build trust with your donors.

10.8 Should I Offer Something In Return For Donations?

Offering something in return can incentivize donations, but it’s not always necessary; rewards, recognition, or simply the satisfaction of supporting a good cause can all be effective motivators.

10.9 What Are The Legal Considerations When Asking For Money?

Be aware of any legal requirements for fundraising in your area, such as registering as a non-profit organization or complying with solicitation laws, and ensure you are transparent about how donations will be used.

10.10 How Do I Thank Donors Appropriately?

Send a personalized thank-you note, acknowledge their contribution publicly (if they’re comfortable with it), and keep them updated on the impact of their donation to show your sincere gratitude.

Address: 44 West Fourth Street, New York, NY 10012, United States. Phone: +1 (212) 998-0000. Website: money-central.com.

Asking for money can be daunting, but with the right strategies and resources, it’s entirely achievable. By understanding your audience, crafting a compelling ask, and building strong relationships, you can overcome the challenges and secure the funding you need. Remember, money-central.com is here to support you every step of the way with expert advice, helpful tools, and a supportive community; we encourage you to explore our website and utilize our resources to enhance your financial literacy and achieve your goals. Take control of your financial future today, and discover the resources and expert advice available at money-central.com.