CoinTalk

Beginner’s Guide to Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing is one of the most accessible ways to make money online in 2025, offering a low-risk, high-reward opportunity for beginners and seasoned entrepreneurs alike. In this blog, we’ll break down what affiliate marketing is, how to do affiliate marketing effectively, and address common concerns like legitimacy and profitability.

What Is Affiliate Marketing?

The Ultimate Money-Making Opportunity At its core, affiliate marketing is a performance-based business model where you earn a commission by promoting someone else’s products or services. Think of it as being a digital salesperson: you share a unique link, and when someone makes a purchase through it, you get paid—without ever handling inventory or customer service. Here’s a simple breakdown of what affiliate marketing entails:

• You (the affiliate) partner with a company or brand.
• You promote their products or services through your website, blog, social media, or email.
• When a customer clicks your affiliate link and makes a purchase, you earn a commission (ranging from 5% to 50% or more, depending on the program).

Traveling with your family is exciting but can come with unexpected risks. That’s why travel insurance family plans are essential—they protect you and your loved ones from mishaps like missed flights, lost luggage, or medical emergencies. If you’re wondering about annual family travel insurance, want to find cheap family travel insurance, or need to compare family travel insurance options, this guide will help you make the right choice.

What Is Family Travel Insurance?

A family travel insurance plan covers everyone in your family under one policy, instead of buying individual plans for each person. It works just like individual travel insurance but simplifies managing claims and coverage for your whole group.

What Does Family Travel Insurance Cover?

Coverage varies by plan, but most family travel insurance policies include:

• Emergency medical coverage: Covers unexpected medical expenses abroad.
• Trip cancellation and interruption: Reimburses non-refundable trip costs if you must cancel or cut your trip short.
• Luggage protection: Covers lost, stolen, or delayed baggage.
• Emergency travel assistance: Helps with emergencies like medical evacuation.
• Rental car insurance: Sometimes included or available as an add-on.
• Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR): Optional coverage that lets you cancel your trip for reasons not covered by standard policies.

Who Should Get Family Travel Insurance?

If your family trip involves significant expenses or multiple bookings, family travel insurance is a smart choice. Before buying, check if your travel credit cards already offer some coverage. For example, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® card covers many family members when you use it to pay for your trip.

Family members typically covered include:

• Spouse or partner
• Children and stepchildren
• Parents and stepparents
• Grandparents
• Aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews

Top Family Travel Insurance Options to Consider

To help you find the best plan, here’s a quick look at top-rated family travel insurance providers based on coverage, cost, and flexibility.

*Based on a sample family trip costing $12,000

Allianz Travel

Offers customizable plans including rental car and Cancel Anytime insurance. Great for families needing coverage for pre-existing conditions and lost baggage protection.

World Nomads

Known for affordable plans that cover over 200 adventure activities like skiing and rafting. Ideal for active families who want extra protection.

AXA

Provides 100% trip cost coverage for cancellations and interruptions, plus trip delay and missed connection benefits.

IMG

One of the cheapest options, with up to $2 million in emergency medical coverage and flexible deductibles.

Tin Leg

Offers strong trip interruption benefits and covers pre-existing conditions. Pricing varies, so comparing plans is key.

How to Choose the Best Family Travel Insurance

• Compare plans online: Use comparison tools to see coverage and prices side by side.
• Check what your credit cards cover: Some cards offer travel insurance that might reduce what you need.
• Consider your travel style: If your family enjoys adventure sports, pick a plan like World Nomads.
• Look for customizable options: Add-ons like rental car insurance or CFAR can be valuable.
• Read the fine print: Understand exclusions and claim processes.

Final Thoughts

Family travel insurance is a must-have for peace of mind on your next trip. It protects your family from costly surprises and lets you focus on making memories. Start by comparing policies that fit your family’s needs and budget.

Are You Paying Too Much in Property Taxes? Here's How to Legally Cut That Bill

Owning a home is one of the biggest investments most people make in their lives—but it also comes with its fair share of recurring costs. Among the most significant is property tax. The good news? If you're a homeowner in the United States, there's a strong chance that your property taxes are tax deductible—and you may not even realize it.

how the property tax deduction works, how much you can claim, and answer your most common questions like:

1. Can you write off property taxes?
2. Are real estate taxes deductible?
3. How much of your property taxes are tax deductible?

What Are Property Tax Deductions?

Property taxes are levies imposed by local governments on the value of your home, land, or other real estate. The good news? In the U.S., property taxes are generally deductible on your federal income tax return, provided you itemize your deductions. This means you can reduce your taxable income by the amount you paid in real estate taxes, potentially saving thousands of dollars.

However, not all property taxes are created equal, and there are specific rules and limitations to understand. For example, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017 introduced a cap on the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction, which includes property taxes. Let’s break it down.

Are Property Taxes Deductible in 2025?

1. Itemized Deductions: To claim a property tax deduction, you must itemize your deductions on IRS Schedule A instead of taking the standard deduction. For 2025, the standard deduction is $14,600 for single filers and $29,200 for married couples filing jointly. If your total itemized deductions (including property taxes, mortgage interest, and charitable contributions) exceed these amounts, itemizing makes sense.
2. SALT Cap: The TCJA limits the total SALT deduction (which includes state income taxes, sales taxes, and property taxes) to $10,000 per year ($5,000 for married couples filing separately). This cap can significantly impact homeowners in high-tax states like California, New York, or New Jersey, where property taxes often exceed $10,000 annually.
3. Eligible Properties: You can deduct property taxes on your primary residence, second homes, and even vacant land, as long as the taxes are based on the assessed value of the property. However, taxes on commercial properties used for business may require different tax treatment.

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure whether to itemize, use tax software or consult a CPA to compare your standard deduction versus itemized deductions. This decision could save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

How Much of Your Property Taxes Are Tax Deductible?

The amount of property taxes you can deduct depends on several factors:

1. Total Taxes Paid: You can deduct the full amount of property taxes you paid in the tax year, as long as it’s within the $10,000 SALT cap (combined with other state and local taxes).
2. Assessment Rules: Only taxes based on the assessed value of your property qualify. Special assessments for improvements (e.g., new sidewalks or sewers) are generally not deductible.
3. Payment Timing: You can only deduct property taxes you actually paid during the tax year. If you escrow your taxes through your mortgage lender, check your year-end escrow statement to confirm the amount paid.
4. Ownership Status: You must be the legal owner of the property to claim the deduction. If you rent or lease, you cannot deduct property taxes.

Example: Let’s say you own a home in Texas and paid $12,000 in property taxes in 2025. Due to the SALT cap, you can only deduct $10,000 (assuming you have no other state or local taxes). If you also paid $4,000 in state income taxes, your total SALT deduction is still capped at $10,000.

Who Can Benefit from Property Tax Deductions?

Property tax deductions are particularly valuable for:

1. Homeowners in High-Tax States: If you live in states like New Jersey, Illinois, or California, where property taxes are notoriously high, deductions can offset some of the financial strain.
2. New Homebuyers: First-time homeowners often overlook real estate deductions, missing out on significant savings.
3. Real Estate Investors: If you own multiple properties, you may be able to deduct property taxes on each, subject to the SALT cap.
4. High-Income Earners: Those with higher incomes are more likely to itemize deductions, making property tax write-offs more impactful.

Concerned about the SALT cap? If your property taxes exceed $10,000, consider other deductions like mortgage interest or charitable contributions to maximize your itemized deductions.

Steps to Claim Your Property Tax Deduction Ready to save on your taxes? Follow these steps to ensure you’re claiming your property tax deduction correctly:

Gather Documentation:

Collect your property tax bill or year-end mortgage statement showing taxes paid.

Check with your local tax assessor’s office if you’re unsure about your payment history.

Verify Eligibility:

Confirm that the taxes are based on the property’s assessed value (not special assessments).

Ensure you’re the legal owner of the property.

Decide to Itemize:

Use tax software or consult a tax professional to determine if itemizing is better than the standard deduction.

File Schedule A:

Report your property taxes on IRS Schedule A, Line 5b (Real Estate Taxes).

Combine with other SALT deductions, but stay within the $10,000 cap.

Keep Records:

Save receipts, bills, and escrow statements for at least three years in case of an IRS audit.

Visual Tip:

Create a simple spreadsheet to track your property tax payments, mortgage interest, and other deductions throughout the year. This makes tax season a breeze!

Common Questions About Property Tax Deductions

1- Can You Write Off Property Taxes on a Second Home?

Yes! Property taxes on a second home or vacation property are deductible, as long as they’re based on the assessed value. However, the $10,000 SALT cap applies across all properties you own.

2- Are Property Taxes Deductible for Rental Properties?

If you own a rental property, property taxes are deductible as a business expense on Schedule E, not subject to the SALT cap. This makes owning rental properties even more tax-advantaged.

3- What If I Paid Property Taxes Late?

You can deduct property taxes in the year you paid them, not the year they were assessed. For example, if you paid 2024 taxes in 2025, you deduct them on your 2025 tax return.

Maximizing Your Tax Savings: Beyond Property Taxes

While property tax deductions are powerful, they’re just one piece of the puzzle. Here are additional real estate deductions to consider:

1. Mortgage Interest: Deduct interest paid on mortgages up to $750,000 (for loans taken after December 15, 2017).
2. Home Office Deduction: If you work from home, you may deduct a portion of your property taxes as a business expense.
3. Energy Efficiency Credits: Certain home improvements, like solar panels, may qualify for tax credits.

Pro Tip: Bundle deductions by timing large expenses (e.g., charitable donations or medical expenses) in a single year to exceed the standard deduction threshold.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Leave Money on the Table

If you’re paying thousands each year in property taxes, don’t miss out on this valuable deduction. While the IRS puts a cap on how much you can claim, being smart about your deductions can significantly reduce your taxable income.

If you’re unsure whether to itemize or how to handle complex real estate tax situations (like vacation homes or multiple properties), it’s worth speaking with a tax advisor or using reputable tax software.

If you’re asking how is the economy right now or wondering is the US economy doing well, it’s clear that 2025 is shaping up to be a year of cautious growth and complex challenges. By analyzing the latest data and expert forecasts, we can better understand the current state of the economy and what lies ahead for the state of the US economy right now.

Analytical Overview of the US Economy in Mid-2025

The US economy is experiencing slower growth compared to the rapid rebound seen in 2023 and early 2024. According to Deloitte’s recent forecast, despite lower tariffs that help reduce inflation, GDP growth is expected to moderate in 2025. Consumer spending, which had outpaced income growth in previous years, is slowing down as inflation pressures ease but remain above target.

The Federal Reserve’s monetary policy is shifting toward a more dovish stance. After a series of rate hikes to combat inflation, the Fed is anticipated to start cutting rates gradually from the third quarter of 2025 through 2026. This easing is expected to lower borrowing costs, encouraging business investment and consumer spending. The yield on the 10-year Treasury bond is projected to decline to around 4.25% by the end of 2025, signaling more favorable financing conditions.

However, risks remain. A downside scenario involves rising tariffs—potentially up to 25% on many imports—which could reignite inflation and force the government into austerity measures. This would tighten fiscal policy, slow growth further, and increase borrowing costs.

Current Economic Indicators and Trends

Recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis shows a slight contraction in GDP in the first quarter of 2025, with a 0.5% annualized decline. The trade deficit widened in May 2025, as exports fell more than imports, highlighting ongoing trade imbalances. Despite these headwinds, the labor market remains resilient. Unemployment held steady at 4.2% in April, with steady job creation continuing, though at a slower pace than in previous years.

Inflation, while moderating from its peak, remains above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target. Energy prices and core goods inflation have eased somewhat, but services inflation is still a concern. This mixed inflation picture complicates policy decisions.

What Experts Predict for the Near Future

Looking ahead, economists expect the US economy to continue growing but at a slower pace, with annual GDP growth around 1.7% in 2025—down from nearly 3% in 2023. Consumer spending is expected to normalize, reflecting more cautious household budgets. Inflation should gradually decline toward 2% but may hover slightly above that level through mid-2026.

Labor market dynamics will shift as well. The aging population means fewer workers entering the labor force, and job growth is expected to slow to about 144,000 per month in 2025, down from 180,000 in 2024. This slowdown is driven more by demographic changes than by layoffs, suggesting a tight labor market but slower expansion.

Trade policy remains a wildcard. The expiration of tariff pauses in mid-2025 raises the risk of renewed trade tensions, which could disrupt supply chains and increase costs. However, ongoing negotiations and potential new trade agreements could ease these pressures.

What This Means for You and Your Finances

For consumers, the economy’s slower growth and persistent inflation mean budgeting carefully is more important than ever. Prices for essentials may remain elevated, so smart spending and debt management are key. For investors, the environment calls for caution and diversification. Platforms like BYDFi and Binance offer tools to manage risk and explore opportunities in a volatile market.

Businesses should prepare for moderate growth and potential supply chain disruptions but can benefit from lower interest rates later in 2025. Policymakers face the challenge of balancing inflation control with supporting growth and employment.

Final Thoughts: Navigating an Uncertain Economy

The state of the US economy right now is one of transition—moving from rapid post-pandemic growth to a more measured and uncertain phase. While risks like tariffs and inflation remain, there are also opportunities from lower interest rates, technological gains, and improving productivity.

What Is IRR? The Game-Changing Metric You Need to Know

Internal Rate of Return (IRR) is a powerful financial metric used to evaluate the profitability of an investment or project. Simply put, IRR is the annualized rate of return that makes the net present value (NPV) of all cash flows from an investment equal to zero. It’s like a crystal ball for investors, helping you compare opportunities, whether you’re eyeing real estate in New York, a startup in London, or a bond in Singapore.

Why does IRR matter?

• Decision-Making Power:  IRR helps you decide whether an investment is worth your hard-earned money.
• Universal Appeal:  From stock portfolios to real estate deals, IRR is used globally across industries.
• Time Value of Money: Unlike simple returns, IRR accounts for the value of money over time, making it a must-know for savvy investors.

If you’ve ever wondered, “What is IRR in finance?”, think of it as the heartbeat of your investment’s potential. A higher IRR signals a more profitable opportunity, but what’s considered a good IRR? Let’s dive deeper.

Why Should You Care About IRR?

Imagine you’re in Australia, weighing two investment options: a rental property in Sydney or a tech startup. Both require $100,000, but which offers better returns? IRR helps you answer this by calculating the annualized return rate, factoring in cash flows like rental income, property appreciation, or startup dividends. Investors across the globe—whether in the U.S., UK, or India—rely on IRR to:

• Compare projects with different timelines and cash flows.
• Assess risk versus reward.
• Make data-driven decisions to grow wealth.

User Pain Point: Many investors, especially beginners, feel overwhelmed by financial jargon. IRR simplifies complex investment choices into a single percentage, making it easier to decide.

The IRR Formula: Breaking It Down

The IRR formula is rooted in the concept of Net Present Value (NPV). Mathematically, IRR is the discount rate that makes the NPV of all cash flows equal to zero:

NPV = Σ [Cash Flowₜ / (1 + IRR)ᵗ] = 0

Where:

• Cash Flowₜ: The cash inflow or outflow at time t.
• t: The time period (e.g., year 1, year 2).
• IRR: The internal rate of return.

Sounds intimidating? Don’t worry! You don’t need to be a math whiz to use IRR. Tools like Excel make it a breeze, and we’ll show you how below.

How to Calculate IRR: A Step-by-Step Guide

Calculating IRR manually is complex due to its iterative nature, but modern tools simplify the process. Let’s explore two methods: manual estimation and using an IRR calculator in Excel.

Method 1: Manual IRR Estimation (For the Curious)

For small projects, you can estimate IRR by trial and error:

1- List all cash flows (initial investment as a negative number, followed by positive cash inflows).

2- Guess a discount rate and calculate NPV.

3- Adjust the rate up or down until NPV equals zero.

4- This method is tedious, so let’s move to the easier way!

Method 2: How to Calculate IRR in Excel

Excel’s built-in IRR function is a lifesaver for investors. Here’s how to do it:

1-  Set Up Your Data: In a column, enter your cash flows. For example: Cell A1: -100,000 (initial investment) Cell A2: 30,000 (Year 1 cash flow) Cell A3: 40,000 (Year 2 cash flow) Cell A4: 50,000 (Year 3 cash flow)

2- Use the IRR Function: In a new cell, type =IRR(A1:A4).

3- Hit Enter: Excel calculates the IRR instantly (e.g., 12.5%).

Pro Tip: If cash flows are irregular, use the =XIRR() function, which accounts for specific dates. This is perfect for real estate deals or projects with uneven cash flows.

What Is a Good IRR? Context Is Everything!

A good IRR depends on your investment type, risk tolerance, and market conditions. Here’s a quick guide:

1. Real Estate: In the U.S., a good IRR for rental properties might range from 8–12%. In high-risk markets like India’s booming metro cities, investors may target 15% or higher.
2. Startups: Venture capitalists often seek IRRs above 20–30% due to high risks.
3. Bonds or Fixed Income: A 5–7% IRR may be acceptable in stable economies like Canada or the UK.
4. User Context: If you’re a beginner in the U.S. with a low-risk tolerance, an IRR of 10% on a diversified portfolio might feel great. For a seasoned investor in Dubai’s real estate market, anything below 15% might not cut it.

Common IRR Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

While IRR is powerful, it’s not foolproof. Watch out for these traps:

Non-Conventional Cash Flows: If cash flows switch between positive and negative multiple times, IRR may give multiple results. Use NPV to double-check.

Ignoring Risk: A high IRR doesn’t guarantee success if the project is risky.

Currency Fluctuations: For international investors (e.g., in the Eurozone or Asia), currency exchange rates can impact returns. Always calculate IRR in your home currency (e.g., USD, GBP, INR).

Solution: Use an IRR calculator online or in Excel to ensure accuracy, and consult a financial advisor for complex projects.

Real-World Example: IRR in Action

Let’s say you’re in Singapore, investing SGD 200,000 in a condo. Expected cash flows are:

• Year 1: SGD 20,000 (rental income)
• Year 2: SGD 25,000
• Year 3: SGD 30,000
• Year 4: SGD 250,000 (sale proceeds + final rental).

Using Excel’s IRR function, you calculate an IRR of 14%. Compared to Singapore’s property market average of 10%, this is a solid deal! This empowers you to make a confident decision.

Why IRR Is Your Secret Weapon for Wealth Building

Whether you’re evaluating a stock portfolio in London, a small business in Mumbai, or a tech startup in Silicon Valley, IRR is your go-to metric for measuring profitability. It’s versatile, globally applicable, and easy to calculate with tools like Excel. By mastering what is IRR, how to calculate IRR, and what is a good IRR, you’re equipped to make smarter financial decisions and grow your wealth.

Call to Action: Ready to crunch the numbers? Fire up Excel, plug in your cash flows, and calculate your IRR today. Or, explore online IRR calculators for quick results. Want to dive deeper? Check out our guides on NPV and ROI to become a financial pro!

Final Thoughts: Take Control of Your Investments

Understanding IRR unlocks a world of financial clarity. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, IRR helps you compare opportunities, assess risks, and maximize returns. From the IRR formula to how to calculate IRR in Excel, this guide has you covered. So, what’s stopping you? Start analyzing your investments today and watch your wealth soar!