Sarah Rand

Tax season rolls around every year, but for many it never feels any easier . The stress associated with this time of year (particularly if you’re not anticipating a huge return) can really mess up your groove. Whether you’re managing multiple income streams , juggling business responsibilities or just trying to keep up with life, things can get messy fast. Getting your taxes filed on time can feel overwhelming and like a chore. And let’s face it, when deadlines sneak up and your plate is already full, taxes typically take a back seat. No matter how busy you are, it’s worth noting that missing the filing deadline can lead to some avoidable penalties and much more unnecessary stress. If you’re not ready to file by the due date, requesting a tax extension so time is on your side again might be the next best choice. For those wondering how to take advantage of the option, there are a few things to remember . Firstly, filing an extension is a normal thing (and it is an IRS-approved...

With space being the next great frontier, many big names have been throwing their hat in the ring to venture beyond Earth’s atmosphere. Space exploration has become the name of the game for several companies that strive to make humans a multi-planetary species. Mankind’s growing need for resources has seen an increased interest in galaxies far, far away, however, the vision of life on Mars will take plenty of money and research before it can be realized. While many people know of Elon Musk’s SpaceX, there is another contender that is making headlines for its’ out of this world exploration . Blue Origin, another privately owned space company, has made headlines over the last year for launching space missions with iconic crew members . On Monday, Apr. 14, they continued that trend by sending the first all-female crew (including celebrities like Gayle King and Katy Perry) on a mission. Here’s what we know about Blue Origin’s owner , history and latest ventures. Blue Origin Is Owned By...

President Donald Trump has established an “America first” policy on tariffs and soon big changes will be evident, according to economic forecasting . The tariff war has already had drastic impacts on businesses and the stock market, so there are sure to be others. Along with the controversial federal funding cuts, there are a myriad of moving parts to keep track of as Trump enacts his executive orders. The American people and those abroad keeping abreast of the situation may not be caught up on their international taxation information . For anyone seeking uncomplicated answers, here’s a quick guide to how tariffs work and why they’re so relevant in 2025. How Do Tariffs Work? (Tyler Casey/Unsplash) In a conversation with UChicago News earlier this month, Professor Robert Gulotty explained, “Tariffs are federal taxes, set by Congress, and applied to goods at the border. Unlike income or sales taxes, tariffs vary by product and by the originating country.” These taxes on imported goods...

Hybrid and electric vehicles have been a big trend in recent years as new and innovative technologies prioritize convenience and sustainability. BYD (Build Your Dreams) is a Chinese company that has positioned itself as a dominant force, leveraging cutting-edge technology to challenge the industry’s established leaders . One of the most recognizable brands in the EV industry is Elon Musk’s Tesla . While Tesla has long been regarded as the undisputed innovator in this realm, BYD is steadily carving out its own niche. In global markets with impressive advancements in EV technology, vertical integration and growing sales figures the question is no longer if BYD can compete with Tesla, but how it will continue to close the gap. The foreign company is already doing well for itself in terms of both market share and technological prowess. BYD was founded in 1995 in Shenzhen, China. It is a publicly traded company with major holdings under the control of Wang Chuanfu, the founder and...

TJ Maxx is a popular budget store that many people have come to love. As shoppers are increasingly drawn to retailers that offer both value and variety, TJ Maxx thrives thanks to its mix of designer brands and discount prices. It’s not just about the thrill of finding a great deal for fashion enthusiasts – it’s also about the experience of uncovering hidden gems. Whether you’re looking for trendy clothing, home decor or even unique accessories, they offer an ever-changing treasure trove of options. Although the store has been a reliable favorite for years, there has been some speculation about the popular chain recently as consumers keep an eye out for their stance on diversity, equity and inclusion. In the past, TJX Companies (the parent company of TJ Maxx) has publicly stated its commitment to building a more inclusive and diverse workplace . Yet with the DEI frenzy over the last few weeks, shoppers are not entirely convinced that the budget store is fully onboard with the DEI...

Teyana Taylor has become a household name thanks to her work throughout the entertainment industry. Although she comes from a well positioned family, the mother of two has come into her own. Over the years, Taylor has developed her own image, style and money, even going on to coach other starlets into their most confident selves. W hether she’s topping the charts with her latest album, exercising her famous abs for a photoshoot or working on brand collabs , the multi-talent is making money moves. Teyana Taylor has built her own financial empire that just keeps on giving. Although she has been making headlines for her multi-million dollar divorce from NBA champion Iman Shumpert, she’s still got it . Here is what we know about Teyana Taylor’s net worth in 2025. How Did The “Rose In Harlem” Hitmaker Become Famous? (Brian Ach/WireImage) Teyana Taylor’s fame stems from a number of sources dating back to the mid-2000s. The performer grew up in Harlem, New York, as fans who listened to her...

On the first day of the new Trump administration, the President issued an executive order to revoke several DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) protections. This policy change enabled companies across the country to eliminate DEI hiring practices, protections and related incentives. As a result, many prominent businesses revealed that their commitment to DEI had largely been driven by legal requirements rather than genuine support. While some companies, such as Costco, Apple and Delta Airlines, have maintained a strong commitment to supporting marginalized communities , numerous others in the tech, automotive and grocery sectors have removed DEI frameworks from their policies. Given the growing importance of DEI to a significant portion of the American public, consumers are increasingly making more informed choices about where they spend their money. In fact, many have begun to consider boycotting businesses that do not align with their values. For those who prioritize DEI, we...

Ross Dress for Less has long been a dominant player in the low-price retail space. It offers a broad selection of products at compelling discounts. Its value proposition, driven by significant cost savings, has made it a popular choice among budget-conscious consumers, particularly within Black communities. Over time, Ross has solidified its position as a go-to destination for those seeking both variety and affordability. However, as the retail landscape evolves, questions are emerging regarding the company’s stance on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) , particularly in light of recent regulatory changes. The new Trump administration’s ban on DEI initiatives has triggered a wave of corporate reassessments . Many businesses are either willfully or forcefully publicly stating their position on DEI policies. As a result, consumers are increasingly scrutinizing the values of the brands they support. This shift in consumer behavior signals that buying decisions are no longer solely...

Coca-Cola is one of the most popular soft drinks in the world. Well-known for its iconic red branding, this fan favorite has been gracing the shelves of stores since 1886. While it comes from humble beginnings in Atlanta, Georgia Coca-Cola has become a global soft drink sensation; their plethora of products has made a tremendous profit. According to company reports , they made $215 million in just the first quarter of 2024. While the numbers certainly support Coca-Cola’s success, some consumers are starting to question the moral compass of the globally influential brand. Along with countless other popular companies , Coca-Cola is being put in the hot seat. With the ongoing ban on DEI on the federal level, many companies are choosing to follow suit. Some are sticking with inclusive initiatives but overall those seemingly anti-DEI are getting the most attention. These companies are either altogether getting rid of their diversity initiatives or making significant changes to company...

DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) initiatives have been quickly scaled back or removed entirely across America following the Trump administration’s recent orders. Upon entering office last month, he banned DEI programs and even removed inclusive wording. Resources for underrepresented Americans on federal and corporate websites are disappearing by the day and many companies are following suit . This disappointing truth has led to a public uproar and general disappointment with obvious digressions from inclusiveness . What’s even more sobering is many companies’ silence or steady reversal of their previous commitments to progressive programs. Day by day companies are either doubling down , scaling back or completely switching up on their DEI efforts. No matter if their renunciations are quiet are bold, people are starting to pay more attention to corporate motives surrounding workplace inclusivity. Which Companies Are Still Supporting DEI? Christina @ wocintechchat.com/Unsplash...

Just under two weeks of occupying the role of President, Donald Trump has made major money and policy moves. He signed a record number of executive orders on the very day he was inaugurated, and has since terminated all federal DEI programs . Removal of the guidelines that promote fair treatment in and beyond the workplace has been met by a public uproar. The subsequent order to plan a mass layoff of DEI employees has since been in effect. According to the title of Trump’s memos, this change was made as a way of “Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing and Initial Rescissions of Harmful Executive Orders and Actions.” But that’s not nearly the end of his changes – there have been other significant efforts to downsize the federal government. As of Jan. 28, 2025, federal employees have been notified of a deferred resignation program which is still being demystified. Breaking Down The Deferred Resignation Program (Iwaria Inc/Unsplash) In a mass email, the...