Welcome. My name is Rev. Dr. Donna Taylor, author of Financial Empowerment in the African American Church. I’m so happy to have you as a visitor to my blog about my new book. This project is very special to me, and I hope to share some of that excitement with you here.

I’ll be using this blog to interact with you about Financial Empowerment in the African American Church, expanding on some of the topics in it and blogging on some of the ideas related to my book. This is a great place for you to get to know me, and I’m looking forward to getting to know you, too. What did you think of Financial Empowerment in the African American Church? What questions do you have for me? How do you relate to my book?

I’ll be returning here frequently with new posts and responses to feedback from you. Until next time, tell me a little bit about yourself.

Read more

No matter what they call themselves – from financial planner to stockbroker or investment manager – their answer to this simple question can help you decide where to get advice. The way the rules are today, commission-based advisers can put you in the fund that charges the $1,000 commission. The goal is to seek funds without fees. Check with your employer or your local financial institutions for the best deals.

Read more

It can be tough to survive a sudden financial blow. AARP has a Money Map that can help you make the right decisions in a cash crisis, without having you feel worse. Many people don’t know where to turn and often choose the quickest solution even though better options might be out there. Find AARP Money Map at aarp.org/moneymap. It’s available for free to anyone.

1. Identify a financial emergency, such as an unexpected expense.
2. Visit the AARP Money Map online aarp.org/moneymap
3. Answer a few questions about your personal situation
4. Receive a step-by-step action plan for taking control of the problem
5. Connect with local resources that can help with debt payment and planning.

Read more

National 401k Day – which is September 6 in 2019 – was created as a play on the concept that Monday kicks off the week with labor and work week end with retirement. The best way to celebrate is to learn more about this common retirement savings path. What is a 401k? a 401k is a common retirement savings plan sponsored by an employer. A 401k allows employees to contribute a portion of their paycheck to their retirement savings pre-tax. Less than 40% of Americans are able to answer basic questions about 401k plans.

Mistakes to avoid in 401k investing:

1. Waiting to start investing
2. Thinking 401k investing is one size fits all
3. Getting complacent about saving
4. Withdrawing early for the wrong reasons
5. Failing to use your employer match

Read more