With the exception of just a few, most major U.S. credit card companies charge international credit card fees, meaning every time you swipe your card abroad, you are charged an additional two to three percent. Banks are charging these fees for converting purchases made in foreign currencies into U.S. dollars. If you do not know how much your credit card company is charging for international transaction fees, contact customer service to find out. The next step is finding out how you can minimize such fees.

While there are not many, you can select a card that does not charge international transaction fees. The only major U.S. credit card companies that don’t charge are Capital One and Discover. Keep in mind that Discover is not widely used or accepted abroad.

You can use a debit card instead of a credit card, which will transfer the money from your bank account in real-time. There are, however, some drawbacks with using a debit card. Some merchants can only process cards as credit cards, regardless if you have a debit card. You can also dispute fraudulent charges on credit cards; no such luck with debit.

Another option is to simply use an ATM. Most banks do not have a transaction fee for withdrawals. Plus, you’re likely to get a better foreign exchange rate from your bank than an exchange booth.

Ultimately, the best way to completely avoid international transaction fees is to select a card that does not charge them - you’ll get the security of a credit card without the added expenses. The only major U.S. credit card companies that don’t charge are Capital One and Discover. Keep in mind that Discover is not widely used or accepted abroad.

BillMyClients.com - An affordable solution that allows you to create and print invoices (and email them too!) for clients.

Xero.com - Online accounting made easy. It provides no minimum subscription period, is web-based so it can be accessed anywhere at anytime, and offers free upgrades with your account.

MyQuire.com - Network and project tools that allow employees and project managers to easily collaborate and share information.

SlimTimer.com - One of the easiest and most efficient web-based time trackers for employees.

• It is definitely time for me to update my bathroom appliances. The outdated ones I have now hit their peak in the 1970s. ’nuff said. I’m thinking one of those shiny new Grohe faucets.
• Do I need a new wardrobe…no. Do I want one…yes!
• A small trip perhaps. The tricky part is saving enough money; they fun part is picking where to go!
• Get my hair done. I’m thinking something spicy and tres svelte!

• Teacher: This is one of those careers that is incredibly fulfilling, but only if you like teaching. I definitely would not recommend switching to this job if you abhor teaching. Also, if you don’t already have your certification, you’ll need to go back to school to get that; and then you are set.
• Personal Trainer: If you are in shape or know a lot about fitness, it is never too late to start your career getting others healthy. Just think; if you are older and become a trainer, how much more inspirational are you to other people, right?!
• Truck Driver: Being out on the open road is great for any age. CDL truck driving jobs are available across the entire United States. It is great for those who a change of scenery every day.
• Writer:This encompasses many options, including freelance, writing novels, poems, academic writing, or business writing. If you like writing, you can find the right niche.

• Apply for a no-fee credit card which will not impose international transaction fees. This allows affords you the security of a credit card without the traditional associated fees.
  
• Whether you are using an American or international credit card, know how much you are charged for transactions made abroad. Most credit card companies in the U.S. (Visa, MasterCard, etc.) charge a foreign transaction fee up to 3% to merchants processing the order. Contact customer service prior to traveling so you are not blindsided by unexpected fees.
• Another fee that can be imposed on transactions abroad is foreign exchange rates, or a currency conversion fee, which may or not be the best exchange rate out there. For example, if you paid 100 Euros for a meal equal to $125.00, you may be charged fees based on the $125.00.Â

This country is finally becoming a little more health conscious. And as a result, the masses are in need of a way to get their nutrition in one easy spot. Exfuze is a company that sells a health drink filled with antioxidants and healthy fruit juices, including:

• Fucoidan
• Goji
• Blueberries
• Mangosteen
• Seabuckthorn
• Noni fruit
• Gac

Exfuze is currently looking for distributors of their new health drink. This is where the money comes into play. By selling Exfuse’s health drink, you can have the extra money that you’ve been wanting. And why not sell something that will make a difference in people’s lives.

1. Customized Vitamins: Code Nutrition offers customized vitamins based on your DNA. This is brilliant because we all kn0w and have heard over and over again that genetics have a lot to do with our health. All you have to do is send in an at-home cheek swab and they will start analyzing your genetic makeup. Innovative and new…and I didn’t think of it.
2. Amazon: Buying books without having to go to the bookstore. Think about it: no line, no wait (except for shipping, of course). I wonder if the inventor of Amazon.com knew that it would take off the way that it has.
3. Gummy Bears: Yeah, I said it. You know you wish you could have thought of that too. And now it is a favorite treat of children and adults alike. I do sometimes wonder just how much the gummy bear empire is worth. But maybe I should just find something more productive to think about.