7 common passport application mistakes to avoid

7 common passport application mistakes to avoid
International travel is a great way to expand one’s horizons. When leaving the country, a valid passport is a must. Getting this made can be a time-consuming process, so it is ideal to start at least three months before the commencement of any travel plans. However, the smallest of mistakes could result in the rejection of this important document. To ensure a smooth passport application process, here are the seven common mistakes one must avoid. Using the wrong photo One of the most common reasons passports are denied is because the photo is not acceptable. For a hassle-free application process, visit an official passport center to take a photo that meets all the passport photo requirements set by the US Department of State, such as background color, quality, head size, etc. Typos and misspellings People often end up making typos and misspellings on their passport application forms, which can delay the process significantly. To avoid this, make sure to review the form thoroughly before submission. Payment issues The application fee must be paid in the proper amount and to the proper location. Payments cannot be made in cash or via a credit or debit card. They must be made via checks, money orders, certified checks, or cashier’s checks to the US Department of State.

Key things to know about employee retention credit

Key things to know about employee retention credit
During the pandemic, the government issued multiple orders that directed certain businesses to shut down or required employees to work from home. Even partial curfews and restricted travel or movement directives directly affected the functioning of a business. That is why the government also introduced the Employee Retention Credit or ERC to eligible businesses impacted by the scale of these orders. The tax credit provides businesses much-needed leverage to survive and recover operations post-pandemic. Who can avail of the credit? Changes in regulations and policies could significantly impact travel, business operations, meetings, and other activities that a company relies on to remain profitable. Employers can apply for employee retention credit regardless of the organization’s size or tax exemption status. This credit incentivizes employers to keep their employees on payroll and receive a tax refund in return for retaining their workforce. The credit amount is 50% of $10,000 in the wages paid to the employee for eligible quarters in 2020. This works out to $5,000 per employee per quarter. For 2021, the credit amount is 70% of the $10,000 in wages paid to the employee for eligible quarters in 2020. This works out to $7,000 per employee per quarter. Businesses can claim tax credits per quarter to offset slow business or losses incurred due to government orders.

3 mistakes to avoid when buying a RAM pickup truck

3 mistakes to avoid when buying a RAM pickup truck
RAM is a renowned brand of pickup trucks known for their rugged durability, impressive towing capacity, and stylish design. They are reasonably priced and offer a lot of versatility to their customers. However, seasoned truck drivers or those considering buying their first RAM pickup truck should be mindful of certain mistakes while choosing their ride. These mistakes may cost more in the long run or result in buying a truck that doesn’t meet one’s needs. Buying the wrong cabin size RAM pickup trucks come with various cabin sizes. A pickup truck’s cabin size primarily determines the interior space available for passengers and cargo. Those considering buying one should carefully consider how many passengers will travel in the pickup truck. A cabin size that is too small can impact comfort, leading to passengers cramming in uncomfortably. RAM offers three main choices in this regard: a regular cabin with two doors and front seating, an extended cabin with front and rear seating with mostly smaller or no rear doors, and a crew cabin with full-sized doors and front and back seats. This also changes the cost; for example, a regular cabin RAM 1500 truck costs about $25,660, but a crew cab can shoot up to $32,475.

5 things that are not included in Medicare coverage

5 things that are not included in Medicare coverage
Medicare, or federal health insurance, is one of the most essential aspects of healthcare for those who are 65 or older and for those who live with certain health complications. Those enrolled in Medicare A, B, or Medicare Advantage are eligible for certain health benefits that help them save and cover various expenses. However, some things might not fall under the scope of coverage. Here are five things that are not included in a Medicare plan: 1. Overseas care Medicare Advantage and original Medicare offer virtually no coverage for healthcare costs incurred outside the country. Some Medigap policies may cover specific overseas health-related costs. Someone who travels often should consider travel insurance policies for basic healthcare coverage. 2. Opticians and eye exams Original Medicare covers ophthalmologic expenses such as cataract surgery but does not cover routine eye exams, contact lenses, or glasses. Some Medicare Advantage plans may cover routine vision care and glasses. People could buy vision insurance policies for a few hundred dollars a year to help cover the cost of glasses or contact lenses. 3. Hearing aids While Medicare covers ear-related health conditions, the original Medicare and Medigap plans do not pay for routine hearing tests or hearing aids.

Top 5 foods to avoid before flying

Top 5 foods to avoid before flying
Before leaving for a long flight, one should have a good meal, especially if not a fan of plane meals. However, instead of fast foods, one should choose nutrient-rich foods that do not cause any uneasiness while in the air. Further, avoiding certain foods can help keep health concerns and discomfort at bay, including gas in the stomach triggered by the low air pressure in the cabin, nausea, and bloating. Foods to avoid Brocolli Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cauliflower offer various health benefits; however, these veggies can also make one feel gassy. Moreover, research by the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders suggests that these green vegetables are packed with fiber and gas-forming sugar known as raffinose, which can cause discomfort during air travel. Apples Fresh fruits such as apples are considered to be extremely nutritious and healthy. However, apples are rich in insoluble fiber, which can make them difficult to digest. This can lead to discomfort in the form of gas and bloating. So, one should avoid the fruit before flying and should choose alternatives such as oranges and bananas to ease the digestion process. Chips Chips are rich in salt content, making them one of the top foods to avoid before flying.

5 all-inclusive luxury cruise lines for a memorable vacation

5 all-inclusive luxury cruise lines for a memorable vacation
A luxury cruise is your best escape strategy for a much-needed break from life on land. Besides the obvious “breath of fresh air,” the curated spa treatments, impeccable hospitality, varied interactions, and sightseeing can do wonders for your mental health. But choosing the right luxury cruise is crucial for a safe, fun-filled holiday with your loved ones. Here are some all-inclusive luxury cruises to consider for your next sea retreat. Seabourn This classy all-inclusive cruise offers world-class luxury amenities, from ocean-view suites and specialty restaurants to spa treatments, salons, and incredibly fancy open bars. The impactful mindfulness training sessions in collaboration with Dr. Andrew Weil, a renowned expert, only add to its splendor. Viking Viking is your answer to a fulfilling sea expedition with a host of amenities on board, including 24×7 room service, a thermal suite spa, elaborate meals, supremely luxurious cabins, and complimentary ground transfers upon purchase of airfare through Viking, to name a few. Silversea Want to travel the world in relatively small but highly vibrant ships? Silversea Cruises has you covered. Gratuities, open bars, in-cabin bar setups, specialty restaurants, fitness sessions, and shuttle service on land are just some benefits. Passengers may opt for port-to-port or door-to-door travel, the only difference being that the latter offers international economy airfare and airport transfers facilitated by private executive car services.

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6 best upcoming Viking Ocean Cruises in 2021-2022

6 best upcoming Viking Ocean Cruises in 2021-2022

It’s no secret that Viking Ocean Cruises is one of the best cruise lines to enjoy a luxurious cruise vacation with your friends or family. Their fleet of state-of-the-art ocean ships takes you to the most exotic destinations around the world. This article looks at some of the best upcoming Viking Ocean Cruises sailings in 2021-2022, along with Viking cruise deals and airfares. Panama Canal and Central America If you want to explore rich Caribbean diversity, this ocean cruise is the perfect opportunity. It’s a 15-day Florida roundtrip cruise that takes you to seven gorgeous countries, including Panama, Jamaica, Honduras, and Mexico, among others. Pricing: Cruise fare starts from $4,299. With Viking’s Special Cruise Savings deal, you can save up to $300 on airfare. You can also save up to $500 on basic accommodation (Veranda). Departure dates: 26th November and 10th December Los Angeles, California, to London Witness the diverse landscapes of Oahu (Honolulu), Kauai (Nawiliwili), Bora Bora, New Zealand, Tasmania, and Brisbain, among other places. This 119 days cruise could be a vacation of a lifetime for you and your family. It departs from Los Angeles, California, and its last stop is in Tilbury, London, which lasts for two days.
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Oil change coupons for your Ford Motor

Oil change coupons for your Ford Motor

Frequent motor servicing is expensive, but a Ford engine needs regular oil changes to keep it functioning optimally. Luckily, many dealerships offer coupons for a discounted oil change. Depending on your car model, your engine will require either synthetic, semi-synthetic, regular, or premium oil. Once you know the type of oil that needs to be replaced, look for a service center that has it, and check out these coupons for your Ford motor. These will make an oil change a lot more affordable. The Works® Package coupon Almost every Ford dealership is familiar with the popular Works® package coupon. With this deal, you get six quarts of Motorcraft® oil, which is a high-quality synthetic blend. The costs differ depending on if the vehicle needs premium oil; it will cost something around an additional $30 dollars. If you want to avail of this offer, get in touch with a local dealership and ask them if they accept this particular Ford Motors coupon for oil change. The Works® Package also includes brake inspection, battery test, and filter check, along with oil replacement. Santa Margarita Ford Express Service Santa Margarita Ford, based in California, is an automotive venture that specializes in Ford motor servicing.
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