Questions Every Woman Should Ask Before Accepting a Higher-Paying Job Offer
Promotions, salary increases, and new jobs usually have a positive impact on our lives. However, switching jobs can bring many hidden expenses. Before you make a significant life decision, consider the unexpected costs, like taxes, health insurance, benefits, retirement, relocation, bonuses, raises, and lifestyle changes. Luckily, with careful planning, you can save your bank account from unnecessary expenses or poor financial choices.
Are you trying to determine whether accepting that new job offer will be a financially-savvy decision? Here are some questions to consider:
Will you be a salaried employee or an hourly contractor?
Salaried workers only get paid for 40 hours per week. Even when they work more hours, there’s no overtime pay.
However, if your job includes extra benefits, raises, and annual bonuses, those perks might make up for extended shifts. Although contractors are paid for every hour worked, they’re responsible for paying their own taxes each quarter, rather than filing annually. If you forget to file taxes frequently enough or fail to put back enough money to pay the IRS, you can expect to owe a large sum come tax season.
Will your tax bracket change?
Higher-paying jobs can increase your tax bracket, meaning the government keeps more of your income. According to finance writer, Dan Caplinger, “self-employment tax is usually roughly twice what you’d see if you were an employee.” To determine whether that’s worth it, consider your unique financial situation and remember that tax laws frequently change. This year, a new tax law decreased tax refunds for most American workers, especially freelancers and contractors. If you’re unsure of local regulations, ask an accountant before accepting any job offers. That way, you’ll feel more confident about your decision.
What will your net pay be?
Job descriptions, interviews, and paperwork typically report salaries as gross income, the amount you make before taxes. Your take-home pay after taxes, or your net income, will be less. Net pay depends on factors like your location and tax bracket. That shiny gross income amount may not be worthwhile if you ultimately make less money than you currently make. Before accepting the job, save yourself some headaches by asking an accountant.
Is the pay transparent?
These days, many companies are moving toward transparent payscale policies. However, transparency eliminates your ability to negotiate salaries, limits future raises, and can even reduce morale. Ensure your new pay is high enough to compensate for any downsides.
What’s the dress code?
Whether you’re changing industries or moving into a higher-level management position, you may need to budget for a new wardrobe. Luckily, there are many budget-friendly options when it comes to work attire. Rather than buying expensive, trendy items, opt for simple, timeless pieces that can be easily paired together without going out of style. Popular clothing stores like Ann Taylor Loft or New York & Company have great prices on business wear and frequently have sales; you can even combine sale items with online coupons to increase your savings.
With some savvy shopping, you can bump up your wardrobe without blowing your new paycheck.
Will you be happier?
Keep in mind your career isn’t just about the money. If that higher-paying job will stress you to the point of becoming ill, it might end up costing you more than your new salary is worth. Besides, extra benefits like free childcare, college tuition reimbursements, flexible schedules, hefty bonuses, and the ability to work from home can make up for lower salaries.
It’s okay to ask for a few days to think about a job offer. Any decent company will give you time to consider your options rather than rushing you into a decision. Sites like InHerSight or Fairygodboss let women compare company benefits and work environments at a glance. By comparing the pros and cons of your new job versus your current one, you’ll feel confident you’ve made the best possible decision for yourself, your bank account, and your long-term future.
Bigger Business: What to Consider When Expanding Your Office Space
Photo via Pixabay by Markusspiske
These days, more and more people are turning to working from home. With so many advances in technology making it easier than ever to start a business or side gig, Americans are finding that it’s beneficial to have a distraction-free workspace at home to get the job done. Finding the room for it, however, is another story. You may need to consider building an external structure rather than converting a room in your home; not only will this give you more privacy, it will allow you to customize the space and keep your business life separate from your personal one.
Fortunately, there are several options when it comes to creating an office space, and they don’t have to break the bank. From building a small structure on your property to adding onto an existing space, there are many ways you can expand your home office. The key is to start with a solid plan, especially when it comes to budgeting for materials and the work itself. Some jobs are DIY, but where complicated work–such as installing electricity–is concerned, it’s best to hire a pro.
Build externally
Adding onto an existing space is one option, but building externally can help you keep your personal and business lives separate, as well as give you some privacy to work in. Working remotely can get complicated when you have a family to take care of as well, but with a space of your own to work in, you won’t have all the distractions and interruptions that you might if you were inside your home. Consider factors such as how much room you’ll need, whether you can wire it for a phone or Internet service, and what materials you’ll use. These are all considerations to make when coming up with a budget, as well.
Adding on
Adding an extension to your home can be a big job, but if you know you’ll be using that space for years to come, it may be worth it. Think about your specific needs before making any decisions, and consider how long you’re going to be in your home. If there’s a chance you might sell it down the road, an addition can add value and possibly get you a higher sale price if it’s done right.
Remember to think about a budget; in general, home additions average around $100 per square foot. Consider the materials that are already used in your home when it’s time to start construction so that everything will be uniform.
Think about the future
If you’re a small business owner and work primarily on your own, you’ll probably only need a modest-sized space to conduct your business in. If you have employees, however, or if you believe you’ll have them in the near future, it’s important to consider how much room you’ll need. Building a new structure comes with a lot to think about, including finding the right location and complying with zoning and construction laws, but it might be advantageous for your business to have a place of your own. You’ll need to do a little research to find out more about the laws in your area when it comes to the property itself–and what it can be used for–as well as the building.
There’s always a lot to consider when you tackle a home project; whether you’re adding onto your house or building a new space, the job will be a big one that requires a lot of patience and careful planning, especially when it comes to finding contractors and other help. However, preparation is key and can help you reduce stress while you create the office of your dreams.
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