“Panthers Score Big with Signing of Backup QB Andy Dalton to 2-Year Deal”
In a move that has fans buzzing, the Carolina Panthers have secured the services of seasoned quarterback Andy Dalton on a two-year contract. This strategic acquisition is sure to bolster the team’s depth and bring valuable experience to the roster. Get ready for an exciting new chapter in Panthers football with Dalton at the helm! #Panthers #AndyDalton #NFLFreeAgency
The Carolina Panthers have solidified their quarterback depth by agreeing to a 2-year deal with veteran backup Andy Dalton. The experienced signal-caller will provide valuable mentorship to young starter Sam Darnold and will be ready to step in if needed. Stay tuned for more updates on the Panthers’ offseason moves. #Panthers #AndyDalton #NFLFreeAgency
In the week that Aston Villa confirmed their place in the last 16 of the Champions League, they also sold their top scorer. Jhon Duran’s departure will be a disappointment to some. The challenge for Unai Emery is to ensure the changes make Villa stronger.
Dealing with the twin tests of the Premier League and Europe has been a theme of the season. They go to Wolves on Saturday after the high of that victory over Celtic on Wednesday knowing that they have not won after a European game since September.
But these past few weeks, in which Diego Carlos and Emiliano Buendia have also left the building, have included the added distraction of the transfer window. How is the man expected to manage all these moving parts coping with the myriad demands?
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Aston Villa boss Unai Emery speaking about Jhon Duran and Ollie Watkins on Wednesday
“Always, in football, it is a busy time,” Emery tells Sky Sports. “Even when you are resting, even when you are on holiday, always our minds are thinking something around football, around the squad, around the players, around the objectives we can face.”
Another constant topic of the campaign has been how to accommodate Duran alongside Ollie Watkins in the Villa team. It was a conundrum that Emery was never able to solve. Their last game together, for half an hour in Monaco, was not a success.
Speaking at the club’s training ground, as the screens playing Sky Sports News tell of interest in Joao Felix, Marco Asensio and Marcus Rashford, Emery explains his plans for life post-Duran. Do not expect him to try to replace the Colombian striker like for like.
“We are in a new way,” he insists. “I am practising how we can play with Donyell Malen. The club is working [on players] to join us but, of course, now we have players in the squad ready to play, ready to be versatile as well and to play in different positions.”
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Aston Villa’s Unai Emery is reluctant to let go of Ollie Watkins in the transfer window
Unai Emery on Donyell Malen
Speaking to Unai Emery about January signing Donyell Malen:
“We were following him for the last year and, in this moment, we needed to replace Jaden Philogene. He was on our list, one of the priority players we could sign in the circumstances, economically, with the style of the player, the versatile player he is.
“We are working now, for 10 days or more or less, in the training sessions with him, practising in different positions as well, attacking third, sometimes right side, which is a little bit of a priority, but as well as a No.10 and as a striker.
“He is a player, he likes to be close in the opponent’s goal and he likes to score goals, I think we need one player like him, to try to add us numbers through the goals.”
Malen, a £21m signing from Borussia Dortmund, made his debut on the right wing off the bench against West Ham but Emery believes he can use him as a striker if needed. It is a better solution, perhaps. Players who can cover Watkins but also play with him.
“Ollie has always been consistent and usually he can play because he is a very strong player, physically as well, playing 90 minutes in a row of matches. But of course we have to have one plan B in case he is not available for 90 minutes or to play some matches.
“But we have players in the squad with this possibility. Donyell Malen and Morgan Rogers played as a striker. Of course, we are watching the transfer window’s last days, if we can sign a striker a striker with the possibility to be versatile in the attacking third.”
Versatility has been essential of late. Against West Ham, an injury to Tyrone Mings required Lucas Digne to play as a makeshift centre-back. Against Celtic, Boubacar Kamara played there with Matty Cash’s early exit forcing Lamare Bogarde to right-back.
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Watch highlights from the Premier League clash between Arsenal and Aston Villa
“The players we have I am very proud of how they respond in different circumstances with the level we need to achieve. We drew at home to West Ham but we reacted very well against Celtic last Wednesday and the response was coming quick.
“The most important thing is that they respond not after but before, when we need them, how they are prepared to do it. This is what I am most proud of. I can feel the players are always open to help and to support every decision that I have to make.”
Getting more from players is what Emery does. It is worth reminding that nine of the starting line-up that beat Celtic were at the club when he arrived in October 2022, with Villa languishing in the bottom six of the Premier League table. He improves players.
He fixes them too, preferring to coax the best from a talent that had not been maximised than take someone with a lower ceiling. This is something Monchi, Villa’s president of football operations, referenced when addressing the interest in Joao Felix and Asensio.
Monchi on Unai Emery
Monchi, Aston Villa’s president of football operations, speaking to Spanish television channel Cope about Joao Felix and Marco Asensio on Thursday evening:
“They are similar players, who Unai Emery likes. Asensio was tried by Aston Villa before I arrived. Last summer we were close to Joao. Neither of them are easy because in terms of salary and cost they are not simple.
“If there is a coach in world football who recovers players, it is Unai Emery. He has been able to recover talents. Joao Felix has talent, and it is only a matter of finding the right environment to bring out the best version of himself. And Unai works very, very well on that.”
‘Recovering talents’
Putting Monchi’s comments to Emery, in which he called him the best at ‘recovering talents’, he replies: “We worked in Sevilla for four years together. He is speaking about two players, they are not playing in their club now consistently, Asensio and Joao Felix.”
“They are potential players, maybe we can add, but we have other players waiting on our list.” The same, of course, could be said of Rashford. “If some of them are coming, this is my challenge, try to get the best of them and try to be protagonists with them.
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With Ollie Watkins and Jhon Duran both potentially leaving Aston Villa, The Transfer Show debate whether Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford could be set for a shock move to Unai Emery’s side.
“But I am positive about the process, the demand we face with the players we have. As a team, we have John McGinn back from injury. Jacob Ramsey as well, hopefully we can get Ramsey the consistency for the next month like he did not have last year.
“Really, this is my motivation, how we can manage as well the player that we have and how we can manage as well the objective we have in front of us.” The next objective? Well, that is simple. Put Europe to the back of their minds and beat Wolves on Saturday.
Saturday 1st February 5:00pm
“After playing in Europe, the motivation we have to play in the Premier League should be the same. We only need to rest, get good sleep, recover energy and then play. This is how we want to build our team, our mentality as players, as a team and as a club.
“Of course, you have to enjoy it as well. Playing different competitions, matches every few days. We are focusing on Wolves. It means a lot for the supporters. We will try to get our best performances collectively, individually, try to compete and try to win.
“Each match is a challenge. Now, the most important is against Wolves. My interest in winning is the same as the Champions League. Even more so in the Premier League because it is through the Premier League that we are going to achieve our objectives.”
Watch Wolves vs Aston Villa live on Sky Sports Premier League from 5pm; kick-off 5.30pm
In a recent interview, Aston Villa manager Unai Emery discussed the departure of Jhon Duran and the club’s plans to reshape their attack with a focus on “recovering talents.”
Duran, who recently left Villa for a new challenge, was a key player in the team’s attack. Emery acknowledged his contributions but emphasized that the club is now looking to refocus their strategy.
“We thank Jhon for his time with us and wish him all the best in his future endeavors,” Emery said. “But now, we are looking to reshape our attack and bring in players who can help us achieve our goals.”
Emery revealed that the club is placing a strong emphasis on “recovering talents” – players who may have been overlooked or undervalued in the past but have the potential to make a big impact.
“We believe that there are many talented players out there who just need the right opportunity to shine,” Emery explained. “We are committed to finding and developing these players to help strengthen our squad.”
Fans of Aston Villa can look forward to seeing some new faces in the team as Emery and his staff work to reshape the attack and bring in fresh talent. With a focus on recovering talents, the club is aiming to build a stronger and more competitive squad for the upcoming season.
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Unai Emery, Jhon Duran exit, Aston Villa, reshape attack, recovering talents, football news, interview, soccer, sports, Premier League, player transfer, team strategy
The tone of Borderlands 4 is intended to land somewhere between the feel of the first two games, and Gearbox says while it isn’t just relying on meme humor, players should still expect the “zaniness” that the series is known for.
In an interview with senior project producer Anthony Nicholson, as part of our Borderlands 4 Big in 2025 Preview, we asked about narrative director Sam Winkler’s comments that suggested he’d cry real tears if terms like ‘skibidi toilet’ and ‘hawk tuah’ appeared in the game. In response, Nicholson said that the team remains “proud of the worlds we’ve created and stories told in previous Borderlands titles,” but notes that “the art of making games evolves over time, and audience expectations for both stories and the way we tell them change as well.”
Borderlands 4 is shaping up to be a wild ride, with the game’s tone appearing to strike a balance between the gritty atmosphere of the first game and the zany humor of the second. While fans of the series have come to love the quirky and offbeat humor that has become a trademark of the franchise, it seems that the developers are aiming for a more nuanced approach this time around.
Gone are the days of Skibidi Toilet and other over-the-top gags that may have divided the fan base in previous installments. Instead, it looks like Borderlands 4 will be leaning more towards the clever and witty banter that players have come to expect from characters like Handsome Jack.
This shift in tone is sure to please fans who have been longing for a return to the darker, more serious storytelling of the original game, while still retaining the humor and charm that has made the series so beloved. With Handsome Jack-style antics on the horizon, Borderlands 4 is shaping up to be a game that will satisfy both long-time fans and newcomers alike.
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At the beginning of every season in Marvel Rivals, each player will get a rank reset and will be demoted around seven tiers (unless they’re already floating around the bottom), meaning they’ll all just get grouped in Bronze 3. This reset has meant that the first half of Season 1 has—what I can only imagine—felt like a free-for-all fistfight inside a house that’s on fire, and every so often, one of your teammates pours gasoline everywhere—so, yeah, it’s been fun.
After climbing up to Diamond in Season 0, I started this season off in Silver 1. I actually wasn’t aware of just how severe this rank reset was going to be, and I was unpleasantly surprised to realise I would be back fighting in Silver and Gold lobbies.
I’ve navigated Marvel Rivals’ chaotic ranked play and dragged myself out of Plat hell, which means it’s time to start preparing to do it all over again next season.
After countless hours of grinding, strategizing, and sometimes even raging, I’ve finally made it out of Plat hell in Marvel Rivals. The road to this point has been long and arduous, filled with tough opponents, frustrating losses, and exhilarating victories.
But now that I’ve reached the coveted rank of Diamond, I know that the real work is just beginning. With a new season on the horizon, it’s time to start preparing for the next climb up the ladder. This means refining my deck, studying the meta, and staying on top of the latest strategies and trends in the game.
It’s a daunting task, to be sure. But I know that with determination, perseverance, and a healthy dose of luck, I can once again rise through the ranks and prove my skills as a top Marvel Rivals player.
So here’s to the next season, full of new challenges, new opportunities, and hopefully, a few more shiny new ranks to add to my collection. Bring it on, Marvel Rivals. I’m ready for whatever you throw at me.
Federal employees have been asked to remove their pronouns from their official emails.
Employees at multiple federal agencies have been asked to remove pronouns from their email signatures by this afternoon, ABC News reported citing internal memos. The memo is based on two executive orders signed by President Donald Trump on his first day in office ending DEI programs in the government. “Pronouns and any other information not permitted in the policy must be removed from CDC/ATSDR employee signatures by 5.p.m. ET on Friday,” according to one such message sent Friday morning from Jason Bonander, the CDC’s Chief Information Officer. “Staff are being asked to alter signature blocks by 5.p.m. ET today (Friday, January 31, 2025) to follow the revised policy.” It is not yet known which agencies received the memo as the report said that the transport department received a similar directive on Thursday when they were managing the emergency of the DC plane crash near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. Energy department employees also received a similar notice Thursday and they were told that this was to meet requirements in Trumo’s executive order calling for the removal of DEI “language in Federal discourse, communications and publications”. The memo also asked each agency to effectively institute trans bathroom bans. Memo in line with Trump’s executive order Donald Trump signed two executive orders calling for an and to what his administration called “radical and wasteful DEI programs” and seeking to restore the “biological truth to the federal government”. In one of those executive orders, each agency, or department of the government has been asked to terminate “to the maximum extent allowed by law” all DEI (diversity, equity, inclusivity) offices and positions. The Trump administration has cracked the whip on federal workers and asked them to work from the office or to take a deferred resignation program in which they will get their pay and other benefits for eight months if they accept to resign by February 6.
Recently, President Trump issued a directive to federal employees, requesting that they remove their preferred pronouns from their email signatures. This decision has sparked controversy and raised questions about the importance of inclusivity in the workplace.
For many individuals, including their preferred pronouns in their email signature is a way to affirm their gender identity and ensure that others respect and acknowledge it. By removing this option, some argue that the Trump administration is disregarding the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
On the other hand, supporters of the directive argue that including pronouns in email signatures is unnecessary and could be seen as promoting a political agenda. They believe that employees should focus on their work and not on their gender identity.
Overall, the debate surrounding this issue highlights the ongoing struggles for recognition and acceptance of diverse identities in the workplace. It remains to be seen how federal employees will respond to this directive and what impact it will have on the overall culture of inclusivity within government agencies.
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Knecht was one of 10 rookies selected to participate in the event during All-Star Weekend. The Rising Stars Challenge has the four-team, mini-tournament format that was adopted for the All-Star Game itself this year so there is a chance that Knecht could face off with his Lakers teammates should his squad be successful.
But while Knecht is proud of this accomplishment, the Lakers rookie remains more focused on the season itself and his team’s success, as seen on Spectrum SportsNet:
“It means a lot, it’s a good accomplishment. At the same time, it’s just the Rising Stars game. I’m more focused on the season than anything.”
Knecht has shown that, while confident in his abilities, he is a humble person who just wants to do anything he can to help his team win games. So it’s really no surprise that the Rising Stars Challenge isn’t something he’s really focused on, especially as the Lakers continue to try and get better as a team.
The rookie is simply focused on trying to be the best version of Knecht that he can be:
“Just try to be the best version of myself on the court. Space the floor, shoot the ball, rebound and just like that. Try to learn off my vets, really. That’s about it.”
The highs and lows of being a rookie in the NBA are gonna come, but Knecht continues to put in the work and try to contribute any way he can. He has quietly been playing well recently and had his best offensive night in weeks against the Philadelphia 76ers, finishing with 24 points while knocking down 5-of-8 from 3-point range.
His abilities as a shooter and scorer are something the Lakers need and right now that is far more important to Knecht than any All-Star Weekend festivities.
Lakers’ Anthony Davis to be re-evaluated in one week with abdominal strain
Davis left the Lakers’ loss to the Sixers early because of the injury and an MRI confirmed an abdominal muscle strain. The Lakers announced they will re-evaluate Davis in a week, but with the All-Star break coming up soon, it wouldn’t be a surprise if the team kept him out until then to ensure he is fully healed for the stretch run.
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Dalton Knecht, a rising star in the basketball world, recently expressed his gratitude for being selected as part of the Rising Stars team. However, Knecht made it clear that his main focus is on the upcoming Lakers season.
“It means a lot to be recognized as a rising star in the league,” Knecht said in a recent interview. “But my main focus right now is on helping the Lakers have a successful season. We have a talented team and I want to do everything I can to contribute to our success.”
Knecht’s dedication to the Lakers is evident in his work ethic and commitment to improving his game. He has been putting in extra hours in the gym, working on his shooting and conditioning, to ensure he is ready to contribute when the season starts.
“I am grateful for the recognition, but I know that my success is dependent on the success of my team,” Knecht added. “I am fully committed to doing whatever it takes to help the Lakers win games and compete for a championship.”
With Knecht’s talent and determination, there is no doubt that he will continue to shine as a rising star in the league. And with his focus squarely on the Lakers season, fans can expect big things from him in the upcoming year.
As we approach the tax season in 2024, it’s important to understand what each tax form means when filing your taxes. Whether you’re a seasoned taxpayer or filing for the first time, knowing the ins and outs of tax forms can help you accurately report your income and deductions. In this post, we’ll break down the most common tax forms you may encounter and what they mean for your tax filing in 2024. Stay tuned for helpful tips and information to make this tax season a breeze!
Ciara suited up for her first of two cohosting stints during the “Today” show alongside Jenna Bush Hager on Wednesday in New York City. The singer and entrepreneur will serve as cohost for Wednesday’s episode and on Friday.
For her first cohosting gig, Ciara opted for a coordinated suited look courtesy of Los Angeles-based brand Helsa. The “Level Up” singer wore a gray double-breasted blazer with white pinstripes, featuring structured padding at the shoulders and buttoned cuffs.
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Ciara
The blazer, made of twill, also included a breast welt pocket and front flap pockets. Ciara coordinated the blazer with matching wide-leg trousers, which featured a high-waisted fit. Ciara paired the suit with a simple white button-down dress shirt with long sleeves that flared out of the cuffs of the blazer.
As for her footwear, Ciara opted for heels courtesy of Christian Louboutin and accentuated her sartorial statement with a pair of black, thick-frame glasses by Bottega Veneta. She also carried a boxy black bag, which perfectly added to the office-inspired look.
Ciara
Between her music career, skin care brand, newfound cohosting duties and other entrepreneurial efforts, Ciara’s been incredibly busy. But the singer still found time in 2024 to expand her growing relationship with fashion brands by introducing a fall capsule collection with Bebe.
“I remember wearing Bebe to high school parties, going shopping and out to dinner with friends,” the singer previously told Fairchild Studio. “I had my Bebe logo T-shirt, which was a classic. I don’t know what girl didn’t have that as a staple in her closet during that time!”
Ciara
“I love to tell a story and above all, I love to build things that inspire those around me — whether it’s with my music, my skin care line or my Bebe collaboration capsule,” she said. “There’s no greater joy than creating something reflecting my authentic self, my journey and my most confident, sharing it with those around me.”
Ciara Means Business in Oversize Helsa Pinstripe Look for Cohosting Duties on ‘Today’ Show With Jenna Bush Hager
Singer, dancer, and businesswoman Ciara is set to take on cohosting duties on the ‘Today’ show alongside Jenna Bush Hager, and she is bringing her A-game in a chic and powerful oversize Helsa pinstripe look.
Known for her impeccable sense of style, Ciara is making a bold statement with this sophisticated ensemble. The oversize blazer and matching trousers exude confidence and authority, while the classic pinstripe pattern adds a touch of elegance.
Ciara’s sleek hair and minimal makeup complement the polished look, allowing her to exude professionalism and sophistication as she takes on her cohosting responsibilities.
With her charismatic personality and flawless style, Ciara is sure to shine on the ‘Today’ show, bringing her own unique flair to the morning talk show. Stay tuned to see how Ciara commands the screen in her oversized Helsa pinstripe look, proving that she truly means business.
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Ciara Means Business, Oversize Helsa Pinstripe Look, Cohosting Duties, Today Show, Jenna Bush Hager, Fashion, Style, Celebrity, Television, Interview, Trendsetter
Tax Day is coming on April 15, 2025 and yours might be one of the 62% of returns that ends up getting a tax refund. There are smart ways to use that money to invest in both your short- and long-term financial health if you get an unexpected refund,
Key Takeaways
A tax refund is a reimbursement from the government when you’ve paid too much in taxes during the year.
Tax refunds can happen if you fill out your W-4 incorrectly, overpay your estimated taxes, are eligible for a refundable tax credit, or receive the Recovery Rebate Credit in 2025.
You can use an unexpected tax refund to pay down debt, save for emergencies or college, invest for retirement, and even splurge a little.
Tax audits can also surprisingly result in refunds.
What Is a Tax Refund?
A tax refund happens when you’ve paid too much in taxes so the government sends you a reimbursement. This can happen with state or local taxes but the largest refunds come from the federal government. The average federal tax refund was $2,948 in April 2024.
Some taxpayers may know that they’re likely to receive a refund. A freelancer who pays estimated taxes may overpay each quarter to avoid an unexpected tax bill due to the possibility of higher-than-average income at the end of the year.
Other taxpayers may not know they’re going to receive a refund until they finish preparing their tax return and realize that the IRS is sending them some money.
You can check the status of your payment with the Where’s My Refund? tool on the IRS website if you expect to receive a tax refund,
Reasons You Could Get a Tax Refund
You might end up with an unexpected tax refund for several reasons.
Form W-4
Tax form W-4 is used to estimate how much income tax your employer should withhold from your paychecks and send to the Internal Revenue Service on your behalf. Your employer might have withheld too much all year if you didn’t complete the form correctly and you’d be entitled to get some of that money back.
You also might get an unexpected tax refund if you didn’t update your W-4 when you were supposed to. Your withholding rate should change if you had a major life change such as having a new baby, You’re probably having too much withheld from your paycheck if you didn’t update your W-4 with your employer after this kind of change.
Estimated Tax Payments
Many self-employed workers or freelancers make high estimated tax payments throughout the year to avoid a surprise tax bill in April. You’ll likely be entitled to a refund at tax time if you overpaid your estimated taxes throughout the year, especially if you didn’t account for business expenses when making estimated payments.
Tax Credits
A refundable or partially refundable tax credit such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit can result in a tax refund. Most tax credits only reduce the amount of tax you owe down to $0 and the government keeps any amount that’s left over. Refundable credits can be sent to you as a tax refund, however, if they’re greater than the amount of tax you would otherwise owe.
Recovery Rebate Credit
The Internal Revenue Service announced in 2024 that taxpayers who were eligible for stimulus payments in 2021 but who didn’t claim the Recovery Rebate Credit will receive those payments in 2024 and 2025. The payment will be sent directly to you if you filed your 2021 tax return but didn’t claim the credit. You can claim it when you file your 2024 tax return in April 2025 and you’ll receive the credit as part of your tax refund if you didn’t file taxes in 2021.
Being Audited
Another surprising reason you might get a tax refund is that you’ve been audited. “We actually are able to correct people’s accounts all the time,” says Alyssa Maloof Whatley, a tax attorney who specializes in disputes with the IRS. “It’s not like every audit will end in someone owing money.”
Taxpayers often think of an audit as the government trying to collect additional taxes, but Whatley explains that the most common cause is a computer program flagging something in their tax return that doesn’t match other information the government has on file. This can result in an unexpected refund in some cases.
What to Do With a Tax Refund
Your first instinct might be to simply increase your spending that month if you get an unexpected tax refund or use it for a splurge you couldn’t otherwise afford. “Don’t just go to, ‘Oh I’ve always wanted to go on this trip,’” advises Melissa Joy, CFP, CDFA, and president of Pearl Planning. She tells her clients to think carefully about where that money should go instead. “Ask yourself where you can alleviate pain or increase safety.”
Pay Off High-interest Debt
“On the debt side, it starts with the interest rates,” says Joy. High-interest debt like credit card debt, personal loans that have a high interest rate, or a home equity line of credit can feel impossible to get on top of because the interest payments add up quickly.
It can help you eliminate a large part of that debt or even all of it if you suddenly have money from a tax refund. “Pay off things that should be short-term debt but have turned into medium or long-term baggage,” says Joy. “You’ll feel less burdened right away.”
Build Up Your Emergency Reserves
Consider using your tax refund to create an emergency fund if you don’t have high-interest debt to pay off. This kind of reserve can help prevent you from taking on high-interest debt in the first place when something unexpected happens. Even a small emergency fund can save you from having to put a surprise expense like a car repair or a broken refrigerator on a credit card.
“People can be afraid to use their emergency fund but that’s what it’s there for,” Joy points out. “Things are always going bump in the night so having an emergency reserve can really save you from having to tap into that high-interest debt.”
Save for Retirement
The next thing to tackle is saving for retirement if you’re not carrying high-interest debt and you have something saved for an emergency. Opening a retirement savings account can come with tax advantages as well as contribute to your future financial health.
You can open a Roth IRA or a traditional IRA regardless of whether you have another retirement account through your employer. A Roth IRA is funded with after-tax dollars so you don’t have to pay taxes on withdrawals in retirement. A traditional IRA lowers your tax bill now. The total contribution for any kind of IRA in 2025 is $7,000.
You can open an IRA through brokerage accounts and banks.
Avoid Student Debt
Paying off long-term debt can weigh down your financial life even if you aren’t paying high interest rates. A large chunk of money from a tax refund can help you put a significant dent in those payments.
“Focus on smaller, more enduring debt like student loans that have just been there forever,” suggests Joy. And you can use your tax refund to help your kids avoid it if you don’t have student loan debt of your own. “Maybe you put half toward your student loans and half toward a 529 plan so your kids aren’t saddled with that kind of debt in the future.”
Splurge a Little
It’s smart to invest in your long-term financial health, but it’s frustrating to get an unexpected windfall and feel like you don’t get to spend any of it. You may want to set aside a little bit of your tax refund for something fun after you’ve put most of your money toward your big-picture goals.
“It’s okay to invest in your current self,” Joy says. That could be something recreational like a trip with a friend or loved one or professional such as a course or certification that will improve your resume. “Don’t spend it all that way,” Joy advises. “But it’s okay to give yourself a budget for a certain percentage that’s a splurge.”
The Bottom Line
It can be exciting to get a refund at tax time but ultimately, Joy says, a yearly refund shouldn’t be your goal. “That means you’ve lent your money to the government,” she explains. “You could be using that money throughout the year and keeping control of it yourself.”
Be thoughtful about how you use it, however, if you do find yourself with an unexpected refund. Invest in your long-term financial health by paying down debt, planning for emergencies, or saving for retirement. It’s okay to have a little fun with your money, however, after you’ve got those covered.
“Everyone needs a splurge now and then,” Joy says. “Just be smart about how you’re spending that money.”
Have you recently received an unexpected refund from the IRS? It may come as a surprise, but there are a few possible reasons why you may have received this refund. Here’s what it means and what you should do next.
1. Possible Reasons for the Unexpected Refund:
– You may have overpaid your taxes in previous years and the IRS is now issuing a refund to correct the error.
– You may have claimed tax credits or deductions that you were previously unaware of, resulting in a larger refund than expected.
– There may have been a mistake in the IRS’s calculations, leading to a higher refund than anticipated.
2. What to Do Next:
– Check your tax return to ensure that all of your information is accurate and that you have claimed all eligible credits and deductions.
– If you believe the refund is a mistake or if you have any questions about the refund, contact the IRS for clarification.
– If the refund is legitimate, consider how you would like to use the money. You may want to save it, invest it, or use it to pay off debt.
Remember, receiving an unexpected refund from the IRS is not always a cause for concern. However, it’s important to understand why you received the refund and what steps you should take next. If you have any doubts or questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the IRS for assistance.
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Slink on outta that old skin, folks; the Year of the Wood Snake is upon us, and with it, the summons to shed the dead and move towards the fresh-cut foundation of the new.
What Chinese Zodiac Sign Is 2025
2025 is the Year of the Wood Snake
Chinese New Year 2025, Year of the Wood Snake
The sixth animal in the Chinese zodiac, the Snake is a symbol of complexity, mystery, initiation and transformation. Elena Uve – stock.adobe.com
Coming in hot and serpentine on January 29, the Chinese Lunar New Year ends the Year of the Wood Dragon and ushers in the Year of the Wood Snake.
The sixth animal in the Chinese zodiac, the Snake, symbolizes complexity, mystery, initiation, and transformation.
In terms of elemental energy, The Wood Snake is seductive and creative, as well as absolutely ruthless.
Myriad schools of myth recognize the Snake as a powerful totem of healing and personal evolution. In shifting scales, shedding skin, and taking new forms, the Snake reminds us that the medicine we seek is already inside of us.
We can harness and honor that energy by beginning each day with a positive affirmation — and by greeting gifts and challenges with the same capable curiosity.
Year of the Snake Years
Reflective rather than reactive, regenerating rather than extinguishing, Snake years herald a time to stop and think, build resources, and plot thoughtfully. Nikolai – stock.adobe.com
In addition to 2025, other Snake years include 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, and 2013. After 2025, the next Year of the Snake will be 2037.
Reflective rather than reactive, regenerating rather than extinguishing, Snake years herald a time to stop and think, build resources, and plot thoughtfully. Strategy bests impulse this year, so make like a snake and strike when the time is right, and your energy fully supports your trajectory.
Snake zodiac personality
Sweet but suspicious, snakes are leery of BOGO deals, affable strangers, margarine and horoscopes. Their deep love of luxury items is at odds with their natural proclivity for laziness.
Yet, what serpents lack in hard work and true grit, they make up for in good looks.
What does the Year of the Snake mean
The Year of the Snake in 2025 is about intuition, wisdom, and transformation for all signs. samiramay – stock.adobe.com
Hong Kong-based certified counselor and award-winning astrologist Letao Wang tells The Post, “The Year of the Snake in 2025 is all about intuition, wisdom, and transformation. Snakes are known for their calm, thoughtful nature, and this year will bring that same energy — encouraging us to look inward and plan thoughtfully. It’s a time to let go of old habits or patterns, much like a snake shedding its skin, making room for renewal and growth.”
Year of the Snake 2025 predictions
Wang tells The Post, “The snake’s graceful, mysterious vibe can inspire us to stay focused and resilient, making 2025 a year of deep personal and collective progress.”
What’s in store for the 12 Chinese zodiac signs? Let’s take a closer look!
It’s your time, Snakes, and according to Wang, this year brings a heady mix of pressure and potential.
“It’s a year to expand your influential connections. Expect to encounter helpful individuals who will offer valuable support and guidance—friends born in the years of the Monkey, Rooster, Rat, and Horse will play pivotal roles in your progress.”
He notes that Snakes will face stiff and scaly competition in 2025. Yet, if they can leverage their connections and stay the course, these challenges will become a springboard for personal and professional success.
Paired snakes might find their partners on a power trip, gaining promotions and prestige but also struggling with control issues. “This is good news for you. However, they might also become more overbearing. Keeping the dynamic balanced in your relationship is the key.”
More money, more problems, folks.
Serpents looking for love can find it by broadening their social circles and engaging in community events.
Wang explains that the people of the Horse will be favored by the influence of the Sun and Peach Blossom stars.
“On the professional front, this is your year to level up — whether earning new certifications or gaining valuable support from mentors and leaders in your field. Fresh insights and wisdom will come your way, helping you navigate your journey with confidence. Building strong connections with seasoned professionals will be crucial for honing your skills, and teamwork will lead to shared victories. In your personal life, love is in the air!”
To harness (pun intended) the auspicious energy of the intimacy-building Peach Blossom star, Wang recommends dates and activities that prioritize pleasure, such as cooking classes, tantric breath work, sex magic, and nude star gazing.
“It’s the perfect year to set relationship goals and celebrate milestones, such as anniversaries, with joy. Overall, expect a year filled with happy moments and meaningful progress!”
Lucky color: yellow
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Goats are advised to turn their energy and attention inward this year and prioritize mental health, self-awareness, and healing.
“This is a powerful time to gently explore your shadow self, illuminating unresolved emotions and past wounds that may have been tucked away. It’s an opportunity to practice self-compassion as you work through these layers and to lean on your emotional support systems — whether that’s your partner, family, or close friends.
Sharing your journey with trusted loved ones can help you process negative thoughts and build resilience. Incorporating mindful practices like meditation, breathwork, or yoga can create space for inner peace and deeper self-understanding.”
While you’re out there, or in there, digging in the dark, steer clear of risky investments and get-rich-quick schemes, focusing instead on building bedrock and carefully planning for the future.
“Remember, growth this year is about patience and persistence. Take small, steady steps toward balance and harmony, trusting that each one brings you closer to a more centered and fulfilling life.”
Transformation is the theme of the year for Monkey.
Wang tells The Post, “Blessed by the Moon star, this year is brimming with new connections and an active social life, where you’ll meet influential individuals who could boost your fame and popularity beyond your expectations.”
Given the feminine influence of the moon, Wang notes that these connections are more likely to spring from those that identify as female.
Monkeys are not known for their ability to accept help or defeat, yet, as Wang explains, “At work, success comes through collaboration and learning to accept help from others. Some old connections will fade as you realize they no longer serve you positively. Letting go of outdated methods will also pave the way for growth and innovation.”
In terms of getting laid and paid, luck is on your side. New income streams will reveal themselves, while the unexpected flush of new or revitalized love will have you walking on the sunny side all the live long day.
It’s cock a doodle dough for Roosters in 2025, as the Year of the Snake brings financial clarity. “It’s a great time to look at your investments and assets and think about ways to grow their value.”
Because health is wealth, Wang imparts that 2025 is also an ideal time for Roosters “to let go of any unhealthy habits and explore practices like meditation, yoga, or other spiritual activities that can bring more positivity into your life.”
For Roosters, newfound love might form in the outer rings of their friend circles. For those in a romantic partnership, establishing or rediscovering a foundation of friendship will strengthen and sex-up your bond.
Above all, the mantra for Roosters is “Don’t Hesitate.”
“This year is all about taking initiative — don’t wait for things to happen, make them happen, and embrace the positive changes coming your way.”
2024 was a doozy for Dogs, but fear not; the Year of the Wood Snake is coming correct and consistent with joy.
“Get ready to celebrate — weddings and joyful gatherings will fill your calendar, creating memories you’ll treasure for years. Travel opportunities will also come your way, and with a little thoughtful planning, these adventures will be smooth and rewarding. While you might spend more than usual, it’ll all be in the name of happiness, so there’s no need to stress.”
In terms of career, Wang shared, “This is your year to shine!” He stresses the importance of collaboration, an expanded skill set, and shameless self-promotion.
The Red Matchmaker star is also shining bright for the hounds of the world, heralding a time of soul mate collisions and/or leveled-up commitment. “This could be the year to take the next big step, whether it’s saying ‘I do’ or welcoming a new family member. Get ready for a year filled with joy and meaningful moments!”
The Year of the Snake means it’s high time for Pigs to step out of the proverbial pasture and tip-toe out of their comfort zones.
“Whether through travel, academic pursuits, or spiritual exploration, this is your year to embrace new experiences and broaden your perspective. For those in the workforce, you might feel a strong pull toward a new career path, but it’s essential to approach these changes with careful thought and planning — take your time to ensure the leap is the right one.”
If you’re looking to relocate, Wang shares that the Sky Horse star is on your side. “Whether it’s moving to a new home or simply exploring different environments, movement can lead to meaningful connections and enriching social experiences that open your mind to new possibilities.”
Traditionally, the Pig and the Snake are seen as adversarial entities, but this year, that tension can bring about surprising shifts and unexpected opportunities for swine folk.
“It’s a year to embrace adaptability, especially in relationships. Shifting roles and dynamics may present challenges, but by offering emotional support and open communication, you and your partner can strengthen your bond and create a more harmonious foundation for the future.”
Lucky color: red
Rat (1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020)
Marina Zlochin – stock.adobe.com
The Year of the Snake is promising for Rats, thanks to the blessings of the Emperor Star and Dragon Virtue.
“This could be your year to really shine in your career — think about stepping into leadership roles and making meaningful connections with people who can help you grow. If you’re working for someone else, focus on strengthening your position by teaming up with those in charge and expanding your network, especially with key clients or influential figures.”
If you’re ready to strike out on your own, the time is nigh, as the influence of the Dragon Virtue star supports leaps of faith and wild deviations from the known.
And while you’re on the edge, lean into the radical act of forgiveness.
“On a personal level, this is a great time to work on yourself — focus on inner growth and understanding your relationships better. Take the chance to resolve any old conflicts and realign your goals.”
Ox people are supported in the Year of the Snake, especially regarding creative expression and professional innovation.
Wang recommends, “Focus on enhancing your work through collaboration and effective communication to strengthen professional growth. This is an excellent time for entrepreneurs to explore joint ventures and expand their network, blending diverse ideas to create something unique. However, it’s important to remain calm and composed, avoiding impulsive reactions to external influences.”
Calm and considered is the name of the game when it comes to both business and pleasure this year. Wang advises Ox folk to make decisions rooted in logic and to resist rushing in or succumbing to peer pressure.
If you’re trying to make love live, the same rules apply. Be patient with your potential or established partner(s) and show the power of your commitment by approaching conflict with an eye on mutually beneficial resolution.
For Tiger folks, clarity, compassion, and care are the prevailing themes of the Year of the Snake.
“It’s all about setting clear goals and communicating openly. You might find yourself presented with a big, long-term opportunity, but it’ll come with its fair share of responsibilities—so take it slow and steady. If you’re running a business, this is the time to focus on safety, security, and ensuring you’re properly insured. Avoid rushing into decisions; a little caution will go a long way.”
In relationships, a committed focus to creating memories and avoiding trivial trash talk will fertilize your bond. For Tigers looking for love, Wang encourages you to first take a look at the past, reflecting on where you’ve been and who you’ve loved to get clear on what you want in the next era of your becoming.
“With the Fortune Virtue star on your side, you’ll find that patience and inner strength will help you navigate any challenges that come your way.”
Bright-eyed and bushy-tailed indeed, the Year of the Snake in 2025 brings a more positive outlook for Rabbits.
“This year is filled with opportunities for learning and growth. The Clan House star blesses Rabbits, making it an ideal time to focus on upskilling, gaining certifications, or pursuing studies to enhance careers or businesses. Entrepreneurs should prioritize research, workshops, and innovative product development to succeed,” said Wang.
In relationships, Rabbits are encouraged to prioritize the most important relationship of all, the one they have with themselves. Focusing on recovery, discovery, and introspection, rather than pair bonding and compromise, will lead to brighter days and fuller feelings.
The Year of the Wood Snake promises sweet relief for Dragon folk who may have felt overworked, worked over, under the weather, and under undue pressure in 2024.
“You’ll feel a wave of positivity, especially with the lucky Sky Happiness star on your side. Expect plenty of reasons to celebrate. You’ll also find more support and recognition, opening doors for personal and professional growth. That said, don’t forget to take care of your health this year, as you might be more prone to immune-related issues.”
Be good to your body and let the Snake work its magic, particularly if you’re awaiting approval for permits, certifications, visas, or other bureaucratic bulls–t.
If you’ve hitched your wagon to another person’s star, the Year of the Snake promises smooth sailing, peaceful unions, deeper trust, and a calming connection.
Can dig…or shed, as it were.
Lucky color: blue
Astrology 101: Your guide to the star
Astrologer Reda Wigle researches and irreverently reports on planetary configurations and their effect on each zodiac sign. Her horoscopes integrate history, poetry, pop culture, and personal experience. To book a reading, visit her website.
The Year of the Wood Snake, according to Chinese astrology, is said to bring luck and prosperity to those born under this sign. This year, which occurs every 60 years, is believed to be a time of renewal and growth, as the Wood element represents creativity and flexibility.
For those born in the Year of the Snake, this could mean a year of new opportunities and personal growth. The Wood element is associated with growth and expansion, so this could be a time for you to step out of your comfort zone and try new things.
Additionally, the Snake is known for its intuition and wisdom, so this could be a year for you to trust your instincts and make important decisions based on your gut feelings.
Overall, the Year of the Wood Snake is a time for you to embrace change and take advantage of new opportunities that come your way. Trust in your abilities and have faith that this year will bring positive changes and growth in all areas of your life.
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year of the wood snake, Chinese zodiac, horoscope, astrology, meanings of the wood snake, 2022 predictions, significance of the wood snake, Chinese new year, lunar new year, Chinese astrology, zodiac signs
