Category: Other

Rights and Responsibilities: What To Do When You Have A Baby

Having a child of your own and raising one is among the greatest gifts life has to offer. It gives every parent the chance to see something grow and shape into a smart, talented, and responsible person. Those values mostly come from yourself, so make sure that you have all your legal documents and responsibilities to show your child how reliable you are.

During Pregnancy

During your pregnancy (if that is your case), you anticipate that everything will go smoothly. Unfortunately, that is not always the case, and having complications is something some women have to face. If you are employed and pregnant, don’t think right away that you become incapable of working.

Employees are required to treat pregnancy as a temporary disability, which means that while you are still paid and capable of doing work, it might not be what you were doing initially. For instance, if you were working on a construction site and are now pregnant, you will have to be reassigned to a job that requires less labor.

This might affect your pay depending on the companies policy. Make sure you check with your insurance company to see how you can be compensated for the duration of your pregnancy.

After Pregnancy

Once you have had your child and plan on taking maternity leave, always make sure to check with your employer and state to see how much time you have to stay at home with your child. This applies for the father as well as proving a biological relationship can guarantee you both up to 12 weeks of leave.

Although you may be granted this leave, you might not be paid during your time away from your company depending on their policy. Often, this creates a problematic situation in which a person has to juggle raising a child and being able to provide for the child. If you apply for a disability during your maternity or paternity leave, you may be compensated for the time you were not working.

Raising a Child

Planning and anticipation are one of the essential factors in being a good parent. But even with proper planning, sometimes your financial situation does not allow you to provide your child with certain benefits. Thinking ahead and balancing your spendings will give your child the best chance to be a happy, well-raised child.

Insurance

If your employer provides a benefits program, make sure you know everything about it so you can add your child to the program. The costs of actually raising a child can be costly, so it is crucial to get all the help you can from the insurance companies.

In addition to getting money from your insurance, you can also get federally granted money. Federal grant money is available to low-income families who have the cheapest insurance or none at all. Often, the state makes sure that you and your child have enough money to make it through each month without having to struggle.

Child Diet

A child’s diet as they are growing is crucial to the health of the child for the rest of their life. By having access to healthy food and an overall nutritional diet, the child will feel better and live better.

Part of a child’s diet includes breastfeeding, a topic that is met with controversy. Having to travel with a baby will also require the child to be breastfed, and finding the right place to do it can be achieved with difficulty and resistance.

Many mothers put milk in a baby bottle or use baby formula, both of which are workable options when raising a child. If you are using baby formula, the prices can be overbearing so be sure to check if any state programs can cover the expenses.

Inheritance and Will Writing

Eventually, most of us plan to pass down what we have to our children. Parents often write a will and inheritance plan right when the child is born to be as safe as possible for the sake of the child. Even though eventual death is not something people want to think about when having a child, being financially secure and smart for your child’s sake can be crucial in the long run.

Often when an inheritance comes into play, everyone wants a piece of what you have, so make sure to write a will and plan out what to give to who.

A Guide To Power of Attorney: Things You Should Know About POA

People often wonder what a power of attorney is, what it entails, and if they need it for themselves. Giving someone or being given power of attorney is a big deal and a display of a person putting their trust into a person to do what they would on their behalf. That is what power of attorney really is; the transfer of power in the form of a document that allows others to manage you and what you own when you are unable to do so.

When you give someone the power of attorney, they become the attorney in fact and have the right to sign on your behalf because that is the power you granted them. Power of attorney is not a one size fits all kind of document as there are multiple types for various reasons.

Types of Power of Attorney

General Power of Attorney

The most common form of power of attorney is the general power of attorney. This is given to a person or group to do everyday life business on your behalf, including business transactions, hiring someone, or getting a birthday present for someone. Often, you use your power of attorney when you are not home and are away on either a vacation or a business trip.

By signing off power of attorney to someone you trust, you make sure that your business and everyday life continues to run smoothly even without your presence. Besides your business matters, this POA can be used to deal with your finances since by signing them off you can leave it in someone else’s hands to deal with what you might not be an expert in.

Special Power of Attorney

The type of power of attorney, which allows you to specify what a person’s ability entails is the special power of attorney. This means that the person giving you power of attorney can either permit you to do everything for them or only one specific thing that they need to be taken care of for them.

For instance, when someone gives you the special power of attorney, they can grant it to you only for managing real estate. They can also allow you the ability to buy and sell property, invest and pay bills all in the same document. This type of power of attorney sign off is usually done because the person does not have the time or the health to do certain things themselves.

Health Care Power of Attorney

A health care power of attorney is one that gives the attorney, in fact, the ability to make decisions on your behalf if you cannot make them on your own solely for medical reasons. This can include being mentally or physically ill, unconscious, or in any other state that can’t allow you to make these decisions for yourself.

Typically, the health care power of attorney is used to settle your medical bills, insurance, and finances from the costs of staying in a hospital or care center. This POA can also sometimes allow you to give your recommendation on whether or not a person under life support should remain on or be taken off it.

Durable Power of Attorney

A durable power of attorney is designed to maintain whatever POA you’ve already had in place to maintain their position. This is usually done if you have fallen ill or become generally weaker and have already had a POA in place. The durable power of attorney makes sure that you are aware of the installments in place and that you trust someone to take care of your legal and financial needs for you.

How to Get a Money Order?

If you need a money order, there are various places you can visit to purchase one. Regardless of the establishment you select, a money order is a secure means to use for a transaction. Keep in mind that each site will have a fee attached to the cost of the check. So, looking around for the lowest price to pay for your money order is best.

Where to Get a Money Order?

When you are ready to get your money order, look for the most notable establishments that are thrush worthy. There are many in your neighborhood. The notable ones are the post offices, banks, retail stores, pharmacies, and check cashing stores.

The document may look different at each site, but they all have the same use. So when you make your purchase, make sure you are getting a money order for the right amount. Some sites may accept cash only, while others may pay for a debit card. Most places do not accept credit cards as a form of payment for a money order.

Related Read: How Much Does it Cost to Get a Passport?

Post Offices

When you visit your post office to drop off your mail, you can purchase a money order from a teller. The money order is a blank check that requires you to fill in the information. A post office money order comes with the receipt attached to it. The receipt can be detached from the check.

The receipt also has the same serial numbers printed on it as the check. It is your proof of purchase in case you lose your money order. Another advantage of buying from the post office is if you lose, damage, or get your money order stolen; it will be replaced with proof of purchase.

Banks

If you have a bank account, you can purchase a cashier’s check. The cashier’s check is the same as a money order. However, your bank or any bank you will acquire the check from can print the name of the person or company you will pay. The other information you must fill in. Some banks may charge you a fee if you do not have an account with them. Be ready to pay the price.

Check Cashing Facilities

You may find plenty of check cashing sites around the neighborhood. Each will charge a percentage based on the amount you will purchase, while others may charge a flat fee. Regardless, you can get the check when you need it. Places you can go are Western Union and Money Gram.

Retail Stores

Many retail stores like pharmacies, grocery, and chain stores sell money orders. Again, each site will charge a fee, and the price will vary. If you visit one, ask if there is any warranty on your purchase if you should lose the check. So, the next time you are in your neighborhood at Walgreens or Wal-Mart and need a money order, purchase it one time.

Filling Out The Money Order

Now that you have your money order, immediately fill it out with the necessary information. One reason for doing so is if you lose it, the person that finds it cannot cash it. So, how do you fill in the information on your money order? Start by reviewing the check and ensuring it is for the right amount. Once that is clarified, endorse it.

Endorse Your Money Order

To endorse the check, write the name of the person or company you will pay for. It is done right after the words “Pay to the Order of” and above the line. Write as clearly as possible to avoid the check getting rejected. Once you complete the endorsement, go to the next line, where you will fill in your personal information. If you purchase the check from the bank and the person or company’s name is already on it, ignore this step.

Fill in Your Personal Information

Now you can fill in your information, especially since you use a money order. Unlike a personal check, a money order comes blank. You can provide your name and address. If you have enough space, you can also put the reason for the transaction. The last thing to do is signed the check. Use your signature as it is unique and is more difficult to duplicate. Printing your name is not a good idea because replicating it is easy.

Now that you have completed all the steps, you can store your money order in a safe place if you are not ready to use it. Otherwise, you can mail it or submit it in person with your application and supporting documents to get your passport.

Conclusion

This concludes our guide on how to fill in a money order for a passport. Remember to double-check all the details you have submitted carefully and make sure they match your valid photo ID. Also, do not forget to sign the check, as that is required for it to be processed and accepted. Completing this step ensures your application will be processed quickly and safely. Thank you for using US Passport Help Guide!

We hope this has been a helpful resource to you.

 

Permanent Canadian Residency

Moving from one country to another can be an incredibly rewarding process. For many, it represents a massive change in their life for the better. It can also be a time-consuming process. Particularly, if you’re moving to a country like Canada with this article we would discuss how to become a Canadian resident.

What are the requirements for a Canadian Residency?

If you were not originally born in that country, there are a number of important steps you’ll need to follow. Steps to help make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible. Note that to apply to become a permanent Canadian resident, you must be at least 18-years-old. If you are not, your legal guardian will need to apply on your behalf.

First Step to a Canadian Residency

The first step you’ll need to take before you move to Canada involves determining which type of permanent Canadian residency best suits your needs. Provided that you don’t already have family living in the country, you’ll need to choose from a number of economic class options. Options that include but are not limited to ones like:

Types of Permanent Canadian Residency

  • Humanitarian and Compassionate Cases
  • Express Entry (which is commonly reserved for federal skilled workers and trades classes)
  • Start-Up Visa
  • Quebec Investors and Entrepreneurs
  • Quebec-Selected Skilled Workers
  • Self-Employed Persons
  • Caring for Children Class and more.

Official Canadian Website

Visit Canada’s own immigration website to determine which of these classes best represents your own situation.

Next, you will need to download the relevant application form from Canada’s website. Complete and submit it, along with all requested documentation and the processing fee, to the Citizenship and Immigration Office listed on the application in question.

In terms of supporting documents, you will typically be asked to provide things like a valid United States passport, proof of the fact that you speak English (or French, depending on where in Canada you plan on moving), your birth certificate and certain necessary financial information.

Once you are invited to become a permanent resident of the country, you will need to live in Canada for at least two consecutive years over a five-year period of time. Doing so will allow you to become a permanent resident. But if you want to actually become a Canadian citizen, you’ll need to take things a step farther by living in Canada for at least 1,460 days over a six-year period of time.

Once you have satisfied those requirements, you will have become both a permanent Canadian resident and a Canadian citizen. The only things you won’t be able to do are a vote, run for office or obtain certain government jobs that involve security clearance.

Five Countries Where U.S. Citizens Need a Travel Visa

One of the most important things to understand about traveling to another country is how long you will stay in the international destination. For an extended stay, you usually need a residency visa regardless of which country you’re traveling to.

However, many US citizens can travel to other countries on a short-term basis without a visa. Most popular travel destinations for vacations and tourists fall under this category. There are five countries you will need a travel visa to go there.

“Some” doesn’t mean “all”, though, particularly in this case. There are actually five popular countries where US citizens will need a travel visa before they depart.

Brazil

If you’re going to be traveling to Brazil for any purpose, you’re going to need a travel visa. If you go without a visa, you will be immediately sent back to the US. You should get a proper visa application from the Brazilian Embassy BEFORE you depart for your trip.

China

If your trip will take you to mainland China, you’ll need to apply for what is called an entry visa through the Chinese Embassy or Consulate General before your trip. Generally speaking, you should do this at least one month before your trip because you will NOT be able to obtain one once you arrive.

India

If you’re traveling to India for any purpose, you need a travel visa as a US citizen. The good news is that if you’re staying less than 30 days, you can apply for an electronic travel authorization online and take care of everything before you go. If you’re going to be staying for longer than 180 days and are planning to work while in India, you need to register your residency at the Foreigners Regional Registration Office.

Russia

Russia actually has one of the more strict systems for admitting visitors into the country worldwide. In addition to the fact that US citizens will need a visa to enter the country in the first place, you also need to make sure that it does not expire before your trip is scheduled to end. If it does, you could potentially find yourself stranded in Russia for up to 20 days. Russian visas also require a sponsor, which could be a travel company, hotel or university or even a friend.

Vietnam

US citizens will also need a travel visa to enter Vietnam for any purpose. In addition to this, it is a requirement that you have at least six months remaining validity on your passport. Alternatively, you may also be able to use a written approval letter which you can get from your travel agency prior to your departure.

Trump Signals Support For the Privatization of Air Traffic Control

On Monday, June 5, President Donald J. Trump gave his endorsement to a new proposal. The proposal would be to privatize the air traffic control system in the US. During an event that took place in the East Room of the White House, President Trump signed both a memo and a letter. Both documents will go to Congress. It will outline a new variation on a proposal that has essentially been around for decades.

Mr. Trump indicates that he was taking bold moves to advance the massive infrastructure. A promise he made during his campaign months leading up to the 2016 Presidential election.

The New Plan

Under the new plan, air traffic control would totally detach from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This may occur in the next three years. Airplanes tracking, moving forward, will be with a series of sophisticated global positioning satellites. Something that Mr. Trump said would “dramatically improve”. Improve upon the current method of using radar and radio signals to accomplish the same goals. In theory, this would result in not only fewer delays at airports coast to coast; but also a safer and more efficient system in general. Savings generating from these lower operating costs would then theoretically be pass on to consumers. Customers, he implies will get to purchase cheaper tickets to fly. Though whether that actually happens is still up in the air.

Mr. Trump was very proud of the fact that the new proposal requires no taxpayer money whatsoever. Democrats and other opponents said that the new system would actually lead to increase costs for travelers. In addition, private businesses would save a significant amount of money and keep all of the profits for themselves. Opponents also argued that the new system would leave already underserved areas without mission-critical improvements. Improvements that will affect them way into the next decade and beyond.

Does Privatizing Air Traffic Control Good Or Bad?

Many of the principles in this plan were introduced as legislation in 2016 by Representative BillShuster of Pennsylvania. Mr. Shuster also serves as chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. In fact, a large number of the core ideas have actually been hotly debated for several decades.

Supporters of the plan say that privatizing air traffic control would not only go a long way towards improving or replacing inefficient airports, but the increase competition would spawn innovation across the board. Those on the opposing side of the argument say that something as essential as air traffic control – and by association the safety of the millions of people who use planes to travel the country each year – should never be on the foundation of a privatize model. Further debate on this will be in the coming months.

It’s important to note that even Mr. Trump’s advisors admit that any action regarding this plan is still months away. This, despite the fact that Trump himself said in April that such a plan would be ready to institute by May at the latest.

Apply for a Passport? No Eyeglasses Allowed In New Passport Photos.

As of November 1, 2016, the State Department will no longer allow eyeglasses in official passport photos. Some experts estimate that every 6 out of 10 people wear corrective lenses. This is one change that could affect millions of people moving forward.

The New York Daily News indicates that the change was made, in part, to help decrease the total number of applications that are rejected each year due to poor quality photos. Eyeglasses in passport photos regularly create glare and cause shadows, making processing passport photos difficult. Experts indicate that out of the 200,000+ passports sent in with poor-quality photos in 2015 alone, the number one issue was with eyeglasses.

Passport Photo Considerations

It’s important to note that this new rule regarding eyeglasses goes into effect even if you always wear lenses. Or even if you’ll be wearing them while traveling. It’s also worth mentioning that the State Department has said that if your CURRENT US passport features a picture of you wearing eyeglasses, you do NOT have to apply for a new passport right away.

However, the next time your passport application is renewed, you must take a new photo. You can not wear eyeglasses while doing so.

Passport Photo 360

Thanks to the wonders of modern technology, taking a passport photo isn’t a long and frustrating process. Thanks to the new Passport Photo 360 app, you can complete it in just a few short minutes with any smartphone or tablet.

Prevent yourself from being one of the 250,000 passport applications that are rejected and rejected for not meeting the government standard when it comes to your photo. Just open the app, snap the picture with your smartphone or tablet, and select a nearby Walgreens for printing. From the moment you take your picture, your photo will be ready for pick up in about 60 minutes.

Passport Photo 360 is available for the iOS and Android operating systems and is available to download now on the app store of your choice.

Features of Passport Photo 360

  • Real-time Review & Compliance checks
  • Print to any Walgreens Location
  • Easy to Use with simple to use the screen to check and verify passport photo.

Conclusion

Passport Photo 360 is a great tool for ensuring your passport photos comply with government standards. With real-time review and compliance checks, you can be sure your photo will meet all the requirements for your passport application. The ability to print to any Walgreens location makes it easy to get a printed photo when you need one. Passport Photo 360 is available for download now on the app store of your choice. Get started today and ensure you have professional-looking passport photos meeting all government standards. Passport Photo 360 lets you know that the government will accept your passport photograph.

How to Register to Vote Online

Do you know how to register to vote online? It’s simple and quick. You can register to vote online by submitting a quick voter’s registration form. Voting is critical for a successful democracy. We depend on our voters to help keep our country running by the voice of the people. Registering to vote is easy when you register to vote online through the Rock the Vote Form. Voting is available to all U.S. citizens aged 18 and older. Some states may allow a 17-year-old to vote, so check your local State’s voting requirements. State Voting Requirements are listed at the bottom of this page. If you’re ready to register to vote online now, you can submit the form below:

 

How to Register to Vote Online

Register to vote online is as simple as completing the voter registration form. Click the button below. The link will bring you to the voter registration form for your state. It shouldn’t be confusing to register to vote.  Follow the button and register to vote in minutes!


 

How to Register To Vote in Person

If you’d prefer to register to vote in person, please visit your local public facility. There are many locations in your local area to register to vote in person. However, registering to vote online is even easier so if you want to register to vote quickly, click the button above.

How to Register to Vote Overseas

The Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP) can provide you with the information needed to register to vote from overseas. Many international travelers and citizens living abroad will still want to vote. Don’t let an additional step dissuade you from registering to vote from overseas.

How to Register to Vote in Other Languages

The National Mail Voter Registration Form provides voters with options to cast a vote in Bengali, Chinese, Hindi, Japanese, Khmer, Korean, Spanish, Tagalog, and Vietnamese.  A Voter’s Guide is also available and provides information on registering to vote in Cherokee, Dakota, Navajo, and Yupik, as well as Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, Tagalog, and Vietnamese. You can vote in most languages so find out how to register to vote in other languages.

Register to Vote Deadlines and Requirements

How to Register to Vote Online
How to Register to Vote Online

All states require voters to register before you can cast your vote, with the sole exception of North Dakota. Voter registration deadlines vary from state to state. Some states close registration 30 days before the election, while others allow voters to register up to Election Day. Proper identification is often required at the polling place so bring your passport, drivers license, or state ID when voting. There are also state by state variations in requirements for ex-felons voting rights. Please check with your state election requirements for more information.

U.S. Citizens Travel Visa Requirements

Are you a U.S. citizen dreaming of globetrotting but concerned about hefty visa fees? Guess what? Dozens of countries offer open doors to Americans – all with no visa required!

Forget the mountains of paperwork and long waiting times; skip ahead to exploring, learning, and experiencing new cultures without forking out extra cash on pricey visas! From the lush rainforests of South Africa to the historical monuments in China, begin your journey into discovering new places without visa requirements.

U.S. Citizens Travel Visa Requirements

As of January 2024, there are over 148 countries that are U.S. passport visa-free countries for entry for Americans. Whether you’re interested in a short vacation, a long-term stay, or even passing through on your way to another country, these places offer hassle-free travel experiences. Examples of popular destinations include:

AlbaniaAmerican SamoaAndorra
AnguillaAntigua and BarbudaArgentina
ArmeniaArubaAustralia
AustriaBahamasBarbados
BelgiumBelizeBermuda
Caribbean NetherlandsBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswana
BrazilBritish Virgin IslandsBrunei
BulgariaCanadaCayman Islands
Central African RepublicChileColombia
Cook IslandsCosta RicaCroatia
CuraçaoCyprusCzechia
DenmarkDominicaDominican Republic
EcuadorEl SalvadorEstonia
Falkland IslandsFaroe IslandsFiji
FinlandFranceFrench Guiana
French PolynesiaFrench West IndiesGabon
GeorgiaGermanyGibraltar
GreeceGreenlandGrenada
GuamGuatemalaGuyana
HaitiHondurasHong Kong
HungaryIcelandIndonesia
IraqIrelandIsrael
ItalyJamaicaJapan
KazakhstanKiribatiKosovo
KyrgyzstanLatviaLesotho
LiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourg
MacauMalaysiaMalta
Marshall IslandsMauritiusMayotte
MexicoMicronesiaMoldova
MonacoMongoliaMontenegro
MontserratMoroccoMozambique
NamibiaNetherlandsNew Caledonia
New ZealandNicaraguaNiue
North MacedoniaNorthern Mariana IslandsNorway
OmanPalauPalestine
PanamaPeruPhilippines
PolandPortugalPuerto Rico
QatarRéunionRomania
San MarinoSão Tomé and PríncipeSenegal
SerbiaSingaporeSlovakia
SloveniaSouth AfricaSouth Korea
SpainSri LankaSaint Kitts and Nevis
Saint LuciaSaint MartinSaint Vincent and the Grenadines
SurinameSwedenSwitzerland
TaiwanTajikistanThailand
Trinidad and TobagoTunisiaTurks and Caicos Islands
United States Virgin IslandsUkraineUnited Kingdom
UruguayVanuatuVatican City
ZambiaEswatini 
   

To travel without a visa, it is necessary to have a valid passport that is usually valid for six months after the planned departure date. Additionally, it is required to purchase travel health insurance as mandated by the destination country.

Which Countries Require eVisa for U.S. Citizens?

eVisas are an electronic alternative to traditional paper visas and are obtained through an online application. The countries that currently require eVisas for U.S. citizens include:

  • Armenia
  • Azerbaijan
  • Bahrain
  • Belarus
  • Burkina Faso
  • Cambodia
  • China
  • Djibouti
  • Ethiopia
  • Gabon
  • India
  • Indonesia
  • Iran (from select cities)
  • Jordan
  • Kazakhstan
  • Kuwait
  • Laos
  • Madagascar
  • Mongolia
  • Myanmar (Burma)
  • Nigeria
  • Oman
  • Qatar
  • Rwanda
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Senegal
  • Singapore
  • South Africa
  • Sri Lanka
  • Tajikistan
  • Thailand
  • Turkmenistan
  • Turkey
  • United Arab Emirates
  • Uzbekistan
  • Vietnam

It is important to note that the exact requirements for a Tourist eVisa can vary from country to country and applicants should check with the respective embassy or consulate for more information. Additionally, some countries may still issue visas in paper form.

Which Countries Have Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens?

Many countries have visa requirements for U.S. citizens, including those in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and South America. It is important to check each country’s policies before traveling to determine any necessary steps that must be taken before entering the country.

AfghanistanEritreaRussia
AlgeriaGhanaSudan
BelarusIranSyria
Central African RepublicLiberiaTurkmenistan
ChadLibyaVenezuela
ChinaMaliYemen
Republic of the CongoNauru
CubaNiger