What Are Stacked Credentials?

April 11, 2024

Uses of Stacked Credentials and How They Work

Stacked credentials aren’t a distinct type of credential. Instead, they represent a framework for accumulating knowledge via micro-credentials. These micro-credentials encompass smaller courses within a broader skill set or a tailored portfolio of relevant individual courses. Stacked credentials significantly enhance a learner’s job prospects and skills.

How Are Credentials Stacked

Credentials can be strategically stacked based on their difficulty level, relevance, or combination.

Vertical Stacking: This approach involves stacking credentials according to their complexity. For instance, one might progress through Proofreading levels 1, 2, and 3, representing an ascending level of proficiency.
Horizontal Stacking: Here, individuals accumulate diverse topics pertinent to their profession. A manager, for instance, might pursue courses covering conflict resolution and budgeting, showcasing a breadth of skills applicable to their role.
Hybrid Stacking: This method combines both vertical and horizontal stacking. Consider an accountant who completes payroll processing courses 1 and 2 alongside integrated bookkeeping 1 and 2, amalgamating specialized knowledge across multiple relevant areas.

Advantages of Stacked Credentials for Students

Individuals seeking stacked credentials often include college students aiming to expand their employment opportunities and employees strategically investing for higher pay.

Career Investment

Employees can propel their careers forward, securing promotions and higher salaries by strategically investing in learning skills by accumulating micro-credentials.

Improves Job Prospects

Possessing a diverse skill set, individuals with stacked credentials become versatile candidates, aligning seamlessly with various job descriptions.

Creates Career Flexibility

Stacked credentials allow employees to explore diverse professions, aiding them in navigating career choices and discovering their preferences.

Advantages of Stacked Credentials for Education Providers

Implementing stacked credentials also benefits education providers. The division of courses into smaller, manageable chunks fosters practical learning experiences that draw students in.

Increased Re-enrollment of Students

The availability of smaller, achievable courses leading to stackable micro-credentials has spurred increased re-enrollment. This format enables employees to balance work commitments while pursuing education, and recent college graduates can job hunt while dedicating minimal weekly study hours.

Provide More Accessible Learning

For individuals unable to invest 2-4 years in traditional degree programs, stacking micro-credentials offers an affordable avenue to gain relevant, up-to-date skills and knowledge.

Motivate Students with Faster Rewards

By accumulating digital micro-credentials, students can showcase their achievements on professional profiles and resumes, motivating them to pursue further stacked certifications.

To know how to make certificates of stacked credentials, try our Certificate Maker for free with the link below.

SimpleCert

Scaling Up: Strategies for Growing a Small Business into a Thriving Enterprise

February 7, 2024

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Rome wasn’t built on the same day,in the same way,you cannot scale up your business overnight. Such achievement requires careful planning,proper decision-making,and creative thinking. It’s exciting for entrepreneurs or CEOs to experience scaling in their ventures,but they should know that it can be challenging. Most of the famous businesspersons who achieved popularity through their outstanding success in their business admit that it was not easy getting to the top. One like Grant Kelley,the CEO of Vicinity Centres,a Melbourne-based real estate investment trust,started small. However,with his consistency and strategic steps,he made his business prosperous. If you wish to learn the strategies for transforming your small-scale business into a mega enterprise,kindly read to the end.

What is your growth vision?

One cornerstone of upsizing your business is having a clear vision. Begin by picturing what you want your business to look like in the future and what targets you want to attain. Clearly state your niche,potential clientele,and how you will distinguish yourself from competitors. Taking a small local bakery,for example. Typically,the vision of the bakery’s owner would be to expand regionally,deliver a wider range of baked foods,and become known for their unique customer service.

Optimize workflows and systems.

If you want to foster your business growth,optimizing your business processes and systems is vital. Locate areas where you can enhance productivity and put scalable solutions into action. For instance,an online retailer may allocate funds in an automated inventory management system that records stock levels and foretell demand. This automation enables the business to deal with increased sales volume without forfeiting accuracy or client gratification.

How Good is your team?

Transforming your business into a mega-one is more than just a one-person job. It would be best to surround yourself with a committed and talented team with the same vision as you,and can be useful in implementing your growth plans. Employ people who bring compatible abilities to the table. For example,if you are running a digital market agency,as your business expands,you might hire professional SEO specialists,content writers,and social media managers to extend their service offerings and take care of a wider variety of customers.

Innovation must not stop.

Innovation is crucial for a business that desires to stay ahead of the competitive landscape. In your company,encourage a creative lifestyle and welcome new suggestions. By doing so,you can expect innovations in forms,like improved processes or new product features. Let’s assume you run a ride-sharing company that began with a simple app but transformed its service to include package delivery,food delivery,and even electric scooters. Innovating continuously,in this case,has allowed you to diversify your revenue channels and position yourself as a full-service mobility solution.

Conclusion

Now that you have learned the best strategies for scaling up your business. What is left is to start to take significant steps into employing such strategies. By doing so,expect your business to grow even to the levels of top companies headed by experts like Grant Kelley.

For more information: Grant Kelley

7 Tips for Tax Time

February 7, 2024

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As the old saying goes,the only things you can’t avoid in life are death and taxes.

The better organized and prepared you are before your tax return is due,the better you’ll feel and the more likely you are to take advantage of strategies to reduce your taxes and increase your potential refund.

1. Double-check your withholding

The end of the year is a great time to review your current withholding allowance to decide if you want to change it. Just look at your paycheck and talk with the payroll department at work about adjusting your withholdings as necessary.

2. Max out your retirement account contributions

The deduction limit for 401(k) contributions for 2022 taxes is $20,500,and that does not count employer contributions. If you’re over 50,you can contribute more with “catch-up” contributions totaling $6,500 if permitted by your 401(k) plan.

For IRAs,the maximum amount of tax-deductible contributions for 2022 is $6,000,or $7,000 if you are over 50. However,the amount of money that you can deduct from your taxes depends on both your income and whether you have a work-provided retirement plan.

Talk to your plan administrator to learn more about your options.

3. Make your home more energy efficient

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 tripled the amount of tax credits you can get for increasing your home’s energy efficiency. Installing a solar energy system,wind turbine or geothermal heat pump can now give you 26% of the cost back if completed before Jan. 1,2023.

Tax credits for energy improvements aren’t limited to alternative energy. Simply installing new Energy Star-certified furnaces and boilers can reap tax credits too. Check the manufacturer’s tax certification statement,as not every Energy Star-certified product is eligible.

4. Track your charitable contributions

Most taxpayers can generally deduct charitable donations up to 50% of their taxable income.

Before donating to anyone,make sure that your contribution will be tax deductible by searching the IRS’ tax-exempt organization database. All valid charities and non-profits will also have a tax identification number identifying them as tax-exempt.

5. Check your required minimum distributions from retirement accounts

US tax law requires that Americans start receiving distributions from their personal or work-provided retirement accounts when they reach a certain age. These distributions are mandatory for 401(k) plans,traditional IRAs,profit-sharing plans,and pensions. They’re not required for Roth IRAs while the owner is alive. While the administrator of your retirement plan is required to follow tax law for distributions,it’s up to you to make sure you’re getting the right amount. If you don’t meet the required amount,you’ll face the harshest IRS penalty around — 50% on the shortfall.

6. Combine your medical expenses into one year

Medical expenses can be a significant deduction for many taxpayers,but the IRS only allows you to deduct expenses that are more than 7.5% of your adjusted gross income. For that reason,it can be advantageous to group all of your major medical expenses into one year.

If you’re approaching the 7.5% threshold this year,consider making health-related purchases by the end of December. Get your teeth straightened,buy those new glasses,or schedule that elective surgery,and you’ll maximize your medical deductions.

Similarly,if you’re not approaching that threshold,hold off on any non-urgent health-related purchases until January,when they could be more advantageous for next year’s income taxes.

7. Strategize your business expenses

Deducting business expenses can save you considerable money on taxes if you’re self-employed or a freelancer. Consider prepaying for next year’s expenses before the end of the year to reduce your tax burden for next year.

2022 is quickly fading into the rear-view mirror. It may be too late to implement some of these strategies for this year’s return,but being aware of steps you can take to minimize your tax burden will deliver value (and hopefully a lower tax bill or larger refund) every year.

Learn more with the link below.

Canopy CU | Tax Time

NCUA Insurance Explained

January 23, 2024

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NCUA Insurance is a crucial component of ensuring the safety and security of your deposits at Canopy Credit Union. Understanding how this insurance works is essential for members to have confidence in the financial stability of their credit union.

The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) plays a pivotal role in safeguarding members’ funds. In the event of any financial challenges faced by Canopy Credit Union,the NCUA steps in to protect depositors. Chairman Todd M. Harper’s statement on March 13th,2023,reassures members that the credit union system is well-capitalized and on solid ground. This declaration underscores the commitment of the NCUA to maintain the integrity of the credit union industry.

Canopy Credit Union not only meets but exceeds regulatory standards for a well-capitalized credit union. CEO and President Charlotte Nemec’s recent communication emphasizes the institution’s financial strength and stability. As a not-for-profit cooperative,Canopy’s member-owned structure prioritizes the financial well-being of its members over profit generation for shareholders.

The unique aspect of Canopy being member-owned means that unnecessary risks are avoided in the pursuit of profit. The Board of Directors and Supervisory Committee,composed of volunteer members,actively oversee the credit union’s operations. This dedicated oversight ensures that Canopy Credit Union remains accountable and focused on keeping members’ money and assets safe and protected.

In the pursuit of maintaining transparency and offering additional resources,Canopy encourages members to explore MyCreditUnion.gov for more information. This commitment to education and transparency is another layer of reassurance for members,reinforcing the security and reliability of their financial institution. As financial landscapes evolve,Canopy Credit Union remains steadfast in its dedication to the well-being of its member-owners,providing a strong foundation for their financial success. Click below to learn more.

Canopy Credit Union | NCUA Insurance

Dealing with Lock Issues? The All-Encompassing Handbook to Professional Locksmith Expertise

January 19, 2024

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Every day,people find themselves in scenarios where they need the help of a expert locksmith. Here’s a quick guide on the 4 main services you’ll likely need at one point or another.

When Emergencies Strike: Emergency Locksmith Providers

Ever had that sinking feeling when you understand you’re locked out of your vehicle at one of the big grocery store car park in Houston? Perhaps it’s a damaged key stuck in your home door lock in the early hours of the early morning? Situations like these call for emergency situation locksmith services.

Emergency situation locksmiths are the superheroes of the lock world. They’re ready to swoop in,24/7,to rescue you from the distress of damaged,lost or malfunctioning locks. Armed with specialized tools and know-how,they’ll have you back inside in no time,with minimal disturbance.

A Location of Security: Residential Locksmith Guide

Residences are implied to be safe havens,but how safe is yours,really? Residential locksmith services guarantee that your house is burglar-proof. They can install new locks,rekey existing ones,or recommend high-security lock systems to offer top-notch security.

Remember,it’s not almost the primary doors,says asaplocksmithtx.com. A residential locksmith will also protect your windows,garage,and any other possible entry points to make your home a stronghold no matter which area of Houston you’re in (and there are numerous).

Fortifying Your Organization: Commercial Locksmith Solutions

The diverse companies in Houston have distinct security needs. A commercial locksmith is familiar with complicated security systems suitable for companies,from master key systems to state-of-the-art electronic locks and access control systems. They can also secure your cabinets,safes,and more.

After all,the safety of your company isn’t just about securing physical properties. It’s about protecting your effort,your reputation,and your comfort.

On the Road: Automotive Locksmith Services

There’s nothing rather as aggravating as a cars and truck lockout. Fortunately,vehicle locksmiths specialize in these sort of predicaments. Whether it’s a lockout,a lost vehicle keys,or issues with your ignition switch,these pros have got your back.

And it’s not just about getting you back in your automobile. With transponder key programming,locksmith houston texas,locksmith houston tx,locksmith in houston,emergency locksmith in houston,residential locksmith houston,mobile locksmith houston,houston locksmith will prevent your car from being taken.

In Conclusion

Whether it’s an emergency,domestic,commercial,or automotive situation,professional locksmith professionals are your go-to solution. They have the training and tools to tackle any lock or key-related issue. So the next time you find yourself believing,”I wish I understood a excellent locksmith near me”,remember this guide,and rest easy.

Keep in mind,a dependable lock can make all the distinction in keeping your residential or commercial property safe. It’s not just about being locked out – it’s about being secured,securely.

ASAP Locksmith TX
Serving Houston,TX
Phone: 832-626-3991
ASAPLocksmithTX.com

Social Security Disability Claim Difficulties

January 14, 2024

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Marken Law Group,PS,has helped hundreds obtain Social Security Disability benefits and Supplemental Security Income benefits. We do not charge a fee unless you obtain the benefits you deserve! Below is a short,and not all-inclusive description of some pitfalls you might experience while bringing your Social Security disability claim on your own.

First,the most pressing,and important,is YOUR responsibility to make sure YOUR medical record has been properly submitted to Social Security. When you are going to be in front of an administrative law judge,it is YOUR responsibility to obtain ALL medical records pertinent to your disability claim. Many people believe it is Social Security’s responsibility to obtain your medical records. At the hearing level,it is YOUR responsibility. Do not be misled by the fact they have obtained records previously,they likely do NOT have your complete medical file and are missing important updates! In the end,the administrative law judge will be basing their decision on what is in the medical record and to offer the best chance of a favorable decision,every document needs to be in the file!

Secondly,the work history is a VERY important document,answer very carefully. You might believe the “Function Report” is the more important document but it is not. The “work history” report can very well determine whether or not you will disabled due to what is termed the “GRID Rules.” The administrative law judge and vocational expert at your hearing will be DISSECTING your work history report document to find the exertion level of the work performed in the past.

Thirdly,if your doctors write statements regarding your disability,generic statements or letters that “JOHN DOE CANNOT WORK,” will NOT work and be rejected by Social Security. What Social Security will want from your doctor is a specific diagnosis and SPECIFIC opinions regarding SPECIFIC exertion limitations.

Example of an excellent doctor’s opinion: John Doe has a diagnosis of degenerative disc disease of his lumbar spine and it is my opinion he can lift and/or carry no more than 15 pounds,can stand and/or walk no more than 2 hours in an eight-hour day.

Example of a pointless doctor’s opinion: John Doe can’t work because of his back and hip pain.

Finally,a last pitfall is drug/alcohol use. As indicated with alcohol,this includes legal drugs such as marijuana (in some states) and opioid pain medication. If any record indicates an abuse,or excessive use of these drugs,you might have a difficult time obtaining benefits. While some years ago,judges would expect you to be on opioid pain medication to substantiate your allegations of pain,it is not largely viewed as an addictive drug that is harmful to your health.

Marken Law Group,PS,does NOT charge a fee unless you obtain Social Security Disability benefits. Call today for a free consultation! Click the link below.

Marken Law Group - Social Security Disability Claims

Proven Strategies To Win Your Social Security Disability Case

December 19, 2023

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If you are facing an upcoming Social Security disability hearing or have recently been denied and in the appeals process,you are likely asking yourself,“What can I do to give myself the best chance of winning my Social Security disability case?”

It can be tremendously agonizing to be recently diagnosed with a disabling condition by your doctors but then be told you have to wait to find out if you are eligible to receive Social Security disability benefits. It’s even more frustrating when you know that you cannot work because of your condition,and so does your doctor,yet for some reason you have had your claim denied and now you have to fight through the appeals process to get what you deserve.

If you are in either of these situations,here are some helpful tips to ensure you have the best chances of winning your case.

Applying for disability benefits for the first time

Do your homework

Be sure to thoroughly read the Social Security Administration’s Blue Book to accurately determine whether or not your disability meets the medical listing. In the event that it does not,you can still win your case,but you may need to go through additional rounds of paperwork,and the need to retain qualified legal counsel looms larger.

Be detailed and thorough in your application

The more detail and facts you can put into your application,the more likely you are to win your case. Never leave the answers to questions blank and avoid answering questions with simple yes/no answers. The Disability Determination Department will be looking for concrete facts and examples of why you are unable to work,and complete and thorough answers will do a much better job of proving your case than short answers.

Submit additional records as they come in

As you undergo treatment for your condition and more details emerge,you want to swiftly submit those medical records to SSA for consideration. Additional medical reports can demonstrate additional facts that will bolster your case and you need all the evidence on your side.

Consider hiring a disability lawyer from the beginning

The above advice seems simple in the abstract,but can become daunting when you are actually going through it. An experienced disability attorney like Evan Marken can help you through each of those processes and give you confidence that you are preparing your documents and conducting your research in the best possible manner. It’s the best way to help you avoid any of the pitfalls that first time applicants fall into,and to ensure your application succeeds the first time.

If Your Initial Application Has Been Denied

File an Appeal

If your application is denied,it’s important to make an appeal and not start over with a new application. The appeals process can seem even more daunting than the initial application process,but filing an appeal gives you a much greater chance of success than you might achieve if you were to simply refile an initial application with slightly different details.

Meet Your Deadlines

All Social Security disability claims come with deadlines and the appellate deadlines are of extreme importance. If you have a deadline you really need to meet it,or otherwise winning cases can turn into losers. Social Security has time periods when it comes to appealing your case for disability benefits,returning paperwork or even keeping an appointment to see one of their doctors.

Comply with Prescribed Treatments

Be sure to comply with the course of treatment recommended by your health team. If you’re prescribed physical therapy,attend the sessions. Take your medications as directed and only discontinue medication after consulting with your doctor. Don’t have health insurance? Learn how you can apply for disability benefits without health insurance.

Again,do yourself a favor: Hire an experienced attorney

Many clients who have navigated the disability appeals process will tell you one of the best things you can do is hire an attorney to advocate for you and make sure your application is strong and that your case is up-to-date. An experienced disability lawyer can help with all the above and take the weight off your shoulders. Clients who hire a disability attorney have a higher likelihood of winning their case,especially if they’ve been initially denied.

Secure Your Social Security Disability Benefits

Marken Law – Tips for Appearing in front of an ALJ

November 22, 2023

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If you have been denied at your initial hearing,appealed in time (60 days),and then were denied at reconsideration – the road to receiving your Social Security Disability Benefits can look daunting,even impossible. It’s likely,you’ve appealed that decision,have waited multiple months,and the day has finally come to have your hearing in front of an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). What happens now? And importantly,what can you do to prepare?

The biggest problems facing claimants who are not represented by an ALJ are not understanding the hearing format and unaware of the medical and other evidence in their file!

Ensuring Your Medical File is Ready For Review

The single biggest obstacle is the medical file. When unrepresented it is YOUR responsibility to make sure your medical records have been properly submitted to the hearing office and have been placed in your electronic file for the judge to review. This is NOT Social Security’s responsibility. No records,or not an adequate file typically leads to frustration with the judges and a possible unfavorable decision for an otherwise great claim. How do you go about fixing this problem? When the hearing office schedules your hearing (typically more than 75 days out) they will mail you a CD with your file. You need to ACCESS this record and see what Social Security is MISSING from your medical record. Social Security must have records pertaining from your onset date to shortly before your hearing. The ALJ’s tasked to decide your case cannot award benefits if there are no medical records for the time in question. For example if you allege disability from 2016 but only have records beginning 2019,the judge WILL NOT find you disabled prior to the medical records on file! You can request your medical record from your providers at little or no cost to you directly from the provider. This then must be submitted NO LATER than 5 DAYS prior to hearing via fax,mail,etc. Do NOT bring records with you to the hearing unless you HAVE TO (i.e.,just received them).

The second biggest obstacle for unrepresented claimants is they are unaware of the hearing format. It is NOT to tell the judge what’s wrong and why they should find you disabled. The ALJ will ask you specific questions about your daily activities,where you worked and the reasons behind leaving work. It is not,in other words,an open forum for you to discuss your problems. It is detailed,specific and if you are not prepared the burden is on you,not the administration.

Other Tips for Your Hearing

We highly recommend you adhere to the following advice as well:

Don’t interrupt the judge.
Answer the judges specific question. A question about your past work is not a entry to discuss your back problems. The judge knows about your back problems,they want to know about the question they asked.
Come prepared with recent medical evidence already submitted well in advance.
Arrive early to your hearing. Most offices will screen you for drugs and weapons and have forms to fill out,do NOT BE ON TIME. ON TIME is LATE.
Dress comfortably but respectfully; no logos or political statements.
Show the judge respect. “Yes your honor” or “No your honor.” They are judges and expect to be treated respectfully. They are the sole decision makers of your claim,so it always helps to show respect.

If you’re interested in finding expert representation to claim your Social Security Disability Benefits,Marken Law Group,does not charge a fee unless you get the benefits you deserve. Click the link below for a free consultation!

Marken Law Group | No Benefits? No Fee.