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Here Are the 4th of July Deals and Freebies

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4th of July deals and freebies

This year, the 4th of July falls on a Saturday. Many families are going to try to take advantage of Independence Day deals and freebies, allowing them to make the most of their budget. While there may be fewer options due to the COVID-19 pandemic, that doesn’t mean there are no discounts to be had. If you’re looking for 4th of July deals and freebies, here are some options.

4th of July Deals

Major Retailer Sales

Retailers like Walmart, Target, Sam’s Club, and more usually discount seasonal items in celebration of the fourth of July. You may find price reductions on barbecues, outdoor furniture, lawn and garden equipment, sporting goods, pool supplies, and more.

Additionally, traditional cookout foods are often on sale. Hotdogs, hamburgers, chips, and similar options may be available for less.

Online-Only Retailer Sales

Online giants like Amazon, Wayfair, and Overstock are all having major sales on July 4. You’ll find outdoor items available with deep discounts, as well as sales on appliances, tech, and more.

Amazon Prime members can typically get free shipping. Additionally, both Wayfair and Overstock have many items available with free shipping, though it isn’t necessarily as fast as Amazon Prime’s 1- or 2-day options.

Home Improvement Store Sales

The same goes for home improvement stores. Home Depot and Lowe’s, for example, will have sales running with appliances, tools, patio furniture, grills, and more available for less than usual.

Mattress Stores

Mattress stores often throw amazing sales in celebration of major holidays, and Independence Day is no exception. You can find lower prices on select items or special bonuses (like free sheets or pillows) at stores like Casper, Leesa, Tuft & Needle, Mattress Firm, Sleep Number, and more.

Food Specials

Restaurants are also offering discounts to diners, including some specifically for delivery or curbside pickup orders. Here are some of the available options:

  • Cheesecake Factor – Between June 19 and July 5, you can get seven times (two burgers, two fries, two drinks, and one piece of cheesecake) for just $20
  • On the Border – The Liberita, a July 4th specialty margarita, is only $5 from July 1 to July 19

4th of July Freebies

Panera Bread Coffee Subscription

While this technically isn’t just for Independence Day, you can still get a Panera Bread coffee subscription for free if you sign up before July 4. You can use it for curbside pickup, too, allowing you to enjoy the freebie even if you don’t want to head into your nearest location.

Free Games for Amazon Prime Members

In July, Amazon Prime members with Twitch Prime accounts can get five free PC games. Starting on July 1, Dear Esther, Dark Devotion, Grip: Combat Racing, Kunai, and Turok 2: Seeds of Evil are available at no cost.

Other 4th of July deals and freebies may get announced as the day gets closer. Since the COVID-19 pandemic is still impacting nearly every state, to some degree, some businesses and attractions may not know whether they will be able to open on the holiday until immediately before. State and local laws and rules can change at a moment’s notice, so you may want to explore what’s available in your local area right before Independence Day to get the most accurate information.

Are there other 4th of July deals and freebies that people shouldn’t miss? If so, let us know. Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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Is the Bank Closed on 4th of July 2020?

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HowIs the Bank Closed on 4th of July 2020

Independence Day, also known as the 4th of July, falls on a Saturday in 2020. Many people get to enjoy a day off work to celebrate, allowing them to spend the day with family members and friends. However, many households also want to take the day to handle various errands, including potentially taking care of some banking. That may leave you wondering, “Is the bank closed on 4th of July 2020?” That’s especially true since the federal government is observing the holiday on Friday, July 3, causing additional confusion about what will or won’t be open on Independence Day. If you’re thinking about making your way to your local branch on Independence Day, here’s what you need to know.

Is the Bank Closed on 4th of July 2020?

Yes, banks will predominately be closed on July 4, 2020. Banking institutions will largely close their doors so that they can observe Independence Day on the actual day, something that benefits employees and aligns with the schedule set by the Federal Reserve.

It’s important to note that the banking system is deviating a bit from the broader federal government holiday schedule, which it usually follows. This is due to the fact that the government offices traditionally operate on Monday through Friday schedules. Since the 4th of July falls on a Saturday, the government observes the holiday on the Friday prior, giving its workforce a day off.

However, banks often have Saturday hours. Since closing on both Friday and Saturday means customers couldn’t come in for assistance for three days in a row (thanks to the almost universal Sunday closures) and that shutting down on Friday could make opening on the actual holiday a must, banks go in a different direction. Most will offer at least limited hours of operation on Friday, July 3, and fully close on July 4.

Overview of Banks Mainly Closed on 4th of July

Here is an overview of just some of the banks that mainly close on July 4:

  • Bank of America
  • Bank of the West
  • BB&T
  • Capital One
  • Citigroup
  • Comerica
  • Fifth Third Bank
  • HSBC
  • JP Morgan Chase
  • KeyCorp
  • Northern Trust
  • Royal Bank of Scotland
  • Regions Financial
  • State Street
  • SunTrust
  • Union Bank
  • Wells Fargo
  • Zions Bank

At times, there may be a few exceptions. Some bank branches located in major retail stores or supermarkets may choose to offer limited hours on Independence Day. But this is far from the norm, so it’s best not to assume that they will open. If you want to use one of those branches on the holiday, take a moment to check in advance to see if it will be welcoming customers and during which hours. That way, you don’t accidentally waste time by heading over only to find that it isn’t open.

Are Credit Unions Closed on 4th of July 2020?

Yes, like banks, the vast majority of credit unions will close for the holiday. They also tend to follow the Federal Reserve schedule for closures.

It is possible there will be a few exceptions. Also, like banks, if a branch is in a retail store or supermarket, it may offer limited holiday hours. But this isn’t the standard, so you may want to check in advance to confirm your branch will open on Independence Day if you need to use it.

Is the Stock Market Open on 4th of July 2020?

No, the stock market is not open on Independence Day, and neither is the bond market. Additionally, since the stock markets aren’t open on Saturdays normally, they will be closed on July 3 in observance of the holiday, as well.

Bank and Credit Union Holiday Schedule 2020

Banks generally follow the federal holiday schedule in 2020, barring the exception for July 4, which the government observes on Friday, July 3. Here’s is an overview of the typical bank and credit union closures for 2020:

  • New Year’s Day – Wednesday, January 1 – Banks and credit unions are closed
  • Martin Luther King, Jr. Day – Monday, January 20 – Banks and credit unions are closed
  • Presidents Day – Monday, February 17 – Banks and credit unions are closed
  • Memorial Day – Monday, May 25 – Banks and credit unions are closed
  • Independence Day – Saturday, July 4 – Banks and credit unions are closed
  • Labor Day – Monday, September 7 – Banks and credit unions are closed
  • Columbus Day – Monday, October 12 – Banks and credit unions are closed
  • Veterans Day – Wednesday, November 11 – Banks and credit unions are closed
  • Thanksgiving Day – Thursday, November 26 – Banks and credit unions are closed
  • Christmas Day – Friday, December 25 – Banks and credit unions are closed

Banks and credit unions may also close their doors on additional holidays that aren’t in the list above. For example, Easter, Mother’s Day, and Father’s Day aren’t normally in this category, but banks don’t usually open on those days. The reason for those closures has less to do with the holiday and more to do with the fact that those holidays fall on Sundays. By and large, banks and credit unions don’t open on Sundays, period, making them automatically closed on those days.

Handling Banking on Independence Day

If you need to do some banking on the holiday, but your local branch isn’t open, you do have some options. As long as the service doesn’t require a teller, you may be able to handle it yourself.

ATMs located in unsecured parts of the bank building or at retail locations will mainly be accessible. This allows you to withdraw cash and handle certain transactions. You may be able to make a deposit or transfer funds between two accounts at that institution. You may also be able to take care of specific bill payments. For example, you can make a payment on a Chase credit card from a Chase bank account at one of the bank’s ATMs.

Additional Banking Options

Online banking and mobile apps give you additional options. Remote check deposits are often possible through the apps, and you can initiate transfers, schedule payments, and handle various bills using either. Both also allow you to check your balances and review recent transactions.

It is important to point out that, if you start a transaction on July 4, it may not fully process until the next business day at the earliest. In this case, that means it may not go through until Monday, July 6, or potentially later, depending on the typical processing times. Some activities need the bank or credit union to be open to complete, possibly causing a delay. If you need a transaction to finish by Independence Day, it’s best to plan ahead and take care of it before the holiday.

Do you know if the bank is closed on 4th of July 2020? Why or why not? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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What Retail Stores Are Open on 4th of July 2020?

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What Retail Stores Are Open on 4th of July 2020

Independence Day (July 4) falls on Saturday in 2020. It is a time to celebrate the nation achieving its freedom, and many retailers choose to mark the event by holding special sales. However, others opt to close their door on the holiday, giving their entire workforce a day off. If you were thinking about taking advantage of some of the 4th of July discounts, you might be wondering, “What retail stores are open on 4th of July 2020?” If so, here’s what you need to know.

These Retail Stores Are Open on the 4th of July 2020

Walmart

On July 4, 2020, Walmart stores are open. In fact, the only day that Walmart closes is on Christmas Day.

Along with being a great option for last-second Independence Day needs, Walmart also typically has a large sale. You may find discounts on popular summer items, including barbecue grills and patio furniture, as well as foods that are ideal for a cookout.

Sam’s Club

Like Walmart, Sam’s Club welcomes shoppers on the 4th of July. You’ll find discounts on many seasonal items as well as foods that are perfect for a BBQ.

Target

Target is open on Independence Day. You can head to your local store to handle your normal shopping needs or to take advantage of sale prices on many popular seasonal items.

Home Depot

You can head to Home Depot on July 4 and take care of your shopping needs. The retailer is open per its usual operating schedule on Independence Day, and also hosts a sale brimming with discounts on select seasonal items and outdoor equipment.

Lowe’s

Lowe’s stores do open their doors on the 4th of July. Not to be outdone by Home Depot, the retailer also holds a sale, marking down prices on certain outdoor and other seasonal items.

Drug Stores

Drug stores like Walgreens, Rite Aid, and CVS are open and following their usual Saturday schedules. Like many other retailers, seasonal items and foods may be discounted to celebrate the holiday.

Other Retailers

Here is a list of some other retail stores that will likely open on Independence Day:

  • JC Penney
  • Macy’s
  • Dillard’s
  • Belks
  • Marshalls
  • Kmart
  • Sears
  • BJ’s Wholesale
  • Best Buy

Retail Stores Closed on the 4th of July

Costco

Essentially the only major retailer that doesn’t open for the holiday, Costco deviates from the norm. However, that doesn’t mean you can find some great discounts on helpful summer items, including barbecue grills, party supplies, and food. Just make sure you head to Costco no later than July 3 if you need something for an Independence Day celebration.

Trader Joe’s

If you want to pick up some groceries on Independence Day, you won’t be able to do that at Trader Joe’s. While the retailer did open on July 4, 2019, though closed at 5:00 pm, which is earlier than usual, it didn’t go that route this year. Trader Joe’s decided not to open on Saturday, July 4, 2020.

Retail Store Closures Due to COVID-19

It’s important to note that certain retail locations that may traditionally be open on Independence Day might be closed on July 4, 2020. Local and state rules regarding operations during the COVID-19 pandemic vary. This could prevent some store locations from opening or may limit their ability to serve customers, such as by restricting them to delivery or curbside pickup.

Additionally, the COVID-19 situation is fairly fluid. Rules can change at the last minute, depending on whether an area experiences a surge in infection rates or if decreases occur. It’s wise to review your local news to stay apprised of any shifts in policy, as they can occur quickly and without much notice.

Before you head to a store on the 4th of July in 2020, you may want to check to see if yours is impacted by coronavirus-oriented rules. That way, you don’t accidentally waste a trip if it turns out they aren’t allowed to open at this time.

Do you know which retail stores are open on 4th of July 2020? If so, which stores do you plan on hitting? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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Here Are 3 Of The Best States For Military Retirees

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best states for military retirees

When your military career comes to a close, you are often faced with a tough decision. Military retirees can essentially move to any state in the nation, allowing them to set up their post-military life. Deciding where to go is a challenge for many, especially since every state offers something different. If you are trying to figure out the best states for military retirees and whether one, in particular, is right for you, here’s what you need to know.

Understanding Military Retirement

Military retirement isn’t always the same as a traditional retirement. Active duty personnel can be eligible after 20 years of service. Suggesting that a person signed up for the military at age 18, they could qualify for retirement when they are 38 years old.

That means many military retirees aren’t necessarily leaving the workforce. When they decide where to retire, they usually factor in job prospects, as many will continue working full-time, potentially for the next two to three decades.

However, you aren’t required to retire from the military after 20 years of service. A person could remain in the military until they reach the mandatory retirement age of 62, in most cases, creating an opportunity for over 40 years of service.

There can also be other forms of military retirement to consider, as well. For example, a person may end up medically retired before the 20-year mark. Depending on the reason for the retirement, whether they choose to pursue additional work opportunities after separating from service could vary.

Choosing Where to Head After Retiring from the Military

Which states are best for military retirees isn’t universal. Each of the situations above could lead to different needs, altering where they may be best off.

Additionally, there are also other factors to consider. Some retirees would rather be near friends and family or in a particular region. If this preference is important, it needs to be part of the decision-making process.

Ultimately, military retirees need to examine the pros and cons of different options. That way, they can choose a destination that will serve them well for the years, if not decades, to come.

3 of the Best States for Military Retirees

1. Virginia

One of the biggest reasons to choose Virginia is for federal jobs and defense-related contractor positions. With its proximity to Washington DC and numerous government and military installations, opportunities in those arenas are plentiful.

Additionally, the climate is relatively mild, and housing in certain cities is decently affordable. There’s also access to military bases for medical care as well as VA hospitals in many metro areas.

It’s important to note that Virginia does fully tax military retirement pay. However, if you’re looking for a state with exceptional job opportunities for those with military and defense experience, it’s worth keeping on the table. Plus, sales tax in Virginia is relatively low, helping to offset the presence of an income tax.

2. Florida

If you don’t want to pay state income tax on your military retirement pay, Florida is a great option. The state doesn’t have its own income tax, allowing you to keep more of your money in your pocket.

Florida also offers a great quality of life for those who would like to retire near beaches and in a warmer climate. Additionally, the healthcare services for veterans are fairly accessible. Along with VA facilities, there are numerous military bases throughout the state, giving retirees access to certain clinics and other on-base or on-post amenities.

Defense contractor and federal positions are also widely available in Florida. This creates career-oriented opportunities for those who aren’t leaving the workforce.

3. New Hampshire

When it comes to state income taxes, New Hampshire only levels one on dividend and interest. That means, by and large, your military retirement pay isn’t going to be taxed.

Additionally, the state has a surprisingly high number of defense contractor positions, something that may appeal to military retirees who aren’t leaving the workforce yet. The state doesn’t have a sales tax, either, which makes daily living more affordable.

Housing itself isn’t necessarily incredibly expensive in New Hampshire. However, the property tax rates are some of the highest in the nation. But, since there isn’t income or sales tax to contend with, that isn’t necessarily a major financial burden as it is offset by savings in taxation.

Ultimately, all three of the states above are top contenders for anyone retiring from the military. However, they each come with pros and cons. It’s wise to consider your unique needs and preferences as you make a decision. That way, you can head to a state that offers everything you require and is a place that you’ll enjoy long-term.

Can you think of any other states that are great for military retirees? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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Here Are 5 Major Financial Decision to Make Before 30

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major financial decisions

For many people, your 20s are spent figuring out who you are and where you want to go in life. Many of the major financial decisions you may during this period have a significant impact on your future. Usually, this is because they have a chance to snowball. You can develop habits that shape your choices down the line, both positive and negative. Ideally, you want to make the process intentional, allowing you to shape your financial future. If you aren’t sure where to begin, here are five major financial decisions to make before you turn 30.

1. Where You Want to Live

This isn’t just about picking a house or apartment. The city and state you choose to call home have a significant impact on your finances. Along with housing costs, your residency can determine whether you pay certain kinds of taxes as well as the cost of living you’ll contend with while you’re there.

Additionally, where you live influences your earnings potential. Big cities tend to offer higher salaries than the same jobs in smaller towns. Whether they come in high enough to offset the cost of living differences varies, but it’s a facet that needs to be explored.

Ideally, you want to select a location that best meets your needs in your 20s. That way, you can transition (if necessary) and start putting down roots in your preferred city.

2. Where You Go to College

Your choice of college impacts your financial future in several ways. First, it determines how much you’ll pay for your education. While the average student loan debt comes in at $32,731, many people end up with much higher balances. It can take decades to pay off a loan, and many people ultimately default, leaving the debt hanging over the head for practically all of their lives.

Second, the college you choose may impact your professional life. A school’s reputation could influence hiring manager decisions, for one. For another, some colleges have more robust alumni amenities, including job placement assistance.

Both of these factors impact your financial life. That’s why you need to think about more than just where you’d like to go to school (or where your friends are going) before you make a decision.

3. Whether You Want to Buy a Home

For some people, buying a home down the road is a must. Even though it means staying in one place for a while, dealing with maintenance responsibilities, and similar obligations, they can’t envision their future any other way.

However, not everyone feels the same. Many prefer the convenience and flexibility renting can offer, so they never plan on making a home purchase.

While you’ll usually spend at least part of your 20s in a rental, it’s wise to decide whether buying a house is one of your goals. It’s a major financial decision, and it takes time to prepare if you want to become a homeowner. By figuring out whether that’s something you want to do, you can start saving right away. Then, when the time comes, you’ll have enough set aside.

4. Whether You Want Children

The cost of having kids can be incredibly high. One estimate showed that raising one child can cost $233,610. That’s a major financial burden.

Even if you don’t want kids right away, it’s wise to consider if you would like to have children in the future. That way, you can start planning for the added cost in advance. Along with setting aside cash in savings, you can make sure that you can support your other goals and needs before you move forward. Otherwise, while you’re trying to cover childcare and healthcare for your kids, you might find yourself forgoing retirement savings, leaving you in a bind down the road.

5. What You Want Retirement to Look Like

When it comes to saving for retirement, time is both your friend and your enemy. The earlier you start, the bigger difference compound interest makes, potentially allowing you to use smaller monthly contributions to reach your goal.

However, you need to know what that goal is to make sure you are headed in the right direction. Ideally, you should have an idea of how’d you would like to live when you step away from the workforce or, at least, leave your main full-time career.

Additionally, if the idea of retiring early is enticing, planning now is a must. It’s possible to shave years, if not decades, off the process. But you can only pull that off if you make that a priority as soon as possible.

Ultimately, it’s best to have the major financial decisions above handled before you turn 30. That way, you can set your life on the right course, allowing you to move toward your goals with greater ease and to avoid missteps that could derail your plan.

Can you think of any other major financial decisions a person should make before 30? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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Here’s How to Retire Well in Alaska

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how to retire well in Alaska

Many consider Alaska to be the last frontier. For some retirees, that alone makes the state an appealing choice for retirement. Not everyone wants to head to the beach when they leave the workforce. Being near the wilderness may feel like a better choice. Plus, Alaska has a lot to offer retirees. If you want to figure out how to retire well in Alaska, here’s what you need to know about the most northerly state.

Cost of Living

Most people assume that retiring in Alaska doesn’t make financial sense. However, when properly managed, retiring anywhere is possible.

First, it’s important to understand that many of the state’s services are better funded in Alaska than they are in other popular retirement states. That means you’ll have access to more support and better quality of care.

However, housing and food prices can be higher, depending on your area. Like Hawaii, Alaska isn’t near major food distribution centers, so everything is being shipped in, and that cost is passed on to you. Additionally, apartments in larger cities can be costly, just like they can be in any other city. If you head to a smaller town instead, you may do better in that department.

Overall, the cost of living is 28 percent higher in Anchorage than the national average. Housing and grocery costs are largely responsible for that, as well as slightly higher utilities. However, Alaska isn’t the highest when it comes to cost of living. Hawaii, California, New York, Massachusetts, Maryland, and Oregon all rank higher, which is something to consider.

Tax Considerations

When it comes to taxes, Alaska is a winner. The state doesn’t have an income tax, allowing you to keep more of your retirement money in your pocket.

Additionally, there isn’t a state sales tax, either. However, there are municipalities that have sales tax. That means, depending on where you shop, you could end up dealing with sales tax. But the average sales tax is fairly low, usually below 2 percent. And many cities don’t have one at all, so you might be able to avoid it entirely.

When it comes to property taxes, there is no state-level exemption for seniors. However, some municipalities do have one, including Anchorage. The exact limits and requirements vary, so you’ll need to explore each area to see if you qualify and to learn more about the size of the exemption.

Overall, many of these tax breaks can help offset the higher cost of living in Alaska. It is perfectly plausible that retiring elsewhere could cost you more. However, you’ll want to examine each factor carefully. That way, you can make a reasonable decision about your retirement.

Part-Time Job Opportunities

Generally speaking, the Alaska economy is fairly strong. This is especially true during the summer when tourism bolsters the hospitality and service industries.

Many seniors can find summer positions, allowing them to bolster their retirement accounts or reduce their reliance on them. However, this situation is a bit tricky in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Should conditions return to normal, opportunities will likely be available. Until that time, they are going to be limited, especially with many taking a break from travel due to the coronavirus.

Best Cities for Retirees in Alaska

When it comes to the best cities in Alaska for retirees, there are plenty of choices available. Anchorage can be a solid choice. The state’s largest city has plenty of amenities, including recreation centers and retirement communities, even though retirees make up less than 10 percent of the state’s population. Medical centers are also widely accessible.

If you’d rather explore different options, Wasilla, which is just outside of Anchorage, can be a great option. The city is home to the start of the Iditarod and has a host of outdoor attractions nearby, including Lucile Lake and Jacobsen Lake. Palmer, home of the Alaska State Fair, is also in the Anchorage metro area.

For those who want to head to a different region, Fairbanks should be on the table. It’s the second most popular metro area, offering a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities and city amenities.

If you’d prefer to go for a smaller city, consider Sterling. Retirees make up about 18 percent of the population, and with good reason. Sitka, home of the Alaska Day Festival, as well as Bethel, should also be on the table.

You may be able to live comfortably in Alaska for as little as $36,000 a year, depending on the city you choose. However, if you have access to $50,000 a year or more, retiring well in Alaska is certainly possible.

Do you have any tips that can help someone retire well in Alaska? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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