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  • Streamline Operations with Cisco Meraki and Red Hat Ansible Automation

    Streamline Operations with Cisco Meraki and Red Hat Ansible Automation


    Cisco Live North America is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to dive into the world of network automation. If you’re looking to streamline operations, boost efficiency, and ensure compliance, you need to check out the power of combining Cisco Meraki and Red Hat Ansible Automation Platform.

    In this blog we will explore several popular customer use cases for Meraki and Ansible Automation Platform. We will provide guidance on how to learn more, including a demo. And if you’ll be at Cisco Live San Diego, we help you plan your agenda to learn more about these use cases.

    Cisco Meraki and Red Hat Ansible: better together 

    For businesses with multiple branch locations or complex network infrastructures, managing IT infrastructure manually is a recipe for human errors and inefficiency, mostly due to inconsistencies in the operational procedures. Cisco Meraki’s cloud-managed networking, coupled with Ansible Automation Platform, offers a robust and consistent solution to enhance your IT operations.

    Let’s explore some of the top Meraki use cases that will be available with Ansible Automation Platform, in the form of a Validated Content Collection, that will simplify your operations lifecycle: branch provisioning, audit and compliance checks, configuration drift audits, and regular rotation of Wi-Fi pre-shared keys.

    1. Branch provisioning: fast, consistent, and reliable

    Imagine deploying hundreds or thousands of new sites, retail stores, remote offices, or even a single site. Traditionally, this process would involve hours of manual configuration for each location, increasing the risk of errors and inconsistencies. Each site might require consistent configurations for firewalls, switches, and Wi-Fi access points, all of which must align with security policies. Manual provisioning is not only time consuming but also prone to human error, potentially leading to security vulnerabilities or network outages.

    With Meraki and Ansible Automation Platform, site expansion becomes a streamlined, automated process. Ansible Automation Platform allows you to create reusable Ansible playbooks, which are automated scripts that define the desired state of your network. These Ansible playbooks can interact with the Meraki API to perform configurations across all of your devices. This means you can define a template or “golden configuration” for a typical branch and then apply that configuration consistently across all new sites.

    Steps required for a branch provisioning orchestrated workflow: 

    • Create networks and claim devices.
    • Configure gateway (firewall) and WAN.
    • Configure switches.
    • Configure SSID and access points.
    • Automate documentation and reporting to update enterprise systems including Sources of Truth

    By using Ansible Automation Platform to automate branch provisioning with Cisco Meraki, organizations can achieve a more agile, reliable, and secure network infrastructure. This approach is especially beneficial for companies with a large number of geographically distributed locations, with operation teams that have to orchestrate multiple technologies, at scale, with a centralized approach.

    2. Audit and compliance check: Stay ahead of the curve

    Managing configurations across a vast network with multiple locations can quickly become complex. Maintaining consistency and ensuring compliance with internal policies and external regulations is critical. This is where automating audit and compliance checks with Ansible Automation Platform becomes invaluable.

    Ansible Automation Platform allows you to leverage the Meraki API using Ansible Automation Platform to compare an organization’s settings and status against a set of best practices and thresholds – uncovering configurations that should be changed.

    This includes general checks, as well as Wi-Fi and switch compliance checks.

    3. Configuration drift audit: maintain a source of truth for your firewall policies

    Configuration drift can lead to unexpected network behavior and security vulnerabilities. With Ansible Automation Platform, you can establish a “good network” baseline—your source of truth. Then, Ansible Automation Platform compares your live network configurations to this baseline and identifies any deviations, especially in critical areas like firewall policies. You decide if you want Ansible Automation Platform to automatically correct any non-compliant configurations or create a service ticket with all the details.

    By using Ansible Automation Platform to maintain a source of truth and audit for configuration drift, you can ensure that your Cisco Meraki network operates reliably, securely, and in compliance with your organization’s standards. This proactive approach greatly reduces risk and streamlines network operations.

    4. Scheduled rotation of Wi-Fi pre-shared keys: enhance security

    Regularly updating Wi-Fi pre-shared keys (PSK) for guest networks is a critical security best practice. In dynamic environments where numerous guests may access the network, static PSKs can become a security vulnerability. If a PSK is compromised, unauthorized users can easily gain access. A scheduled rotation of these keys significantly reduces this risk. Manually changing PSKs every month across multiple sites is a tedious and error-prone process, but Ansible Automation Platform can automate this crucial security task, ensuring consistent and timely updates.

    Ansible Automation Platform can be used to generate new, strong PSKs automatically and then push these new keys to all of your Meraki access points. This can be scheduled as a recurring task, ensuring that the PSKs are rotated every month without manual intervention. This automated process not only enhances security but also frees up valuable IT resources.

    Why This Matters: key advantages of Cisco Meraki and Red Hat Ansible Automation Platform 

    By combining Cisco Meraki’s cloud-managed networking with Ansible Automation Platform, organizations achieve:

    • Rapid deployment 
    • Proactive compliance 
    • Operational stability 
    • Enhanced security 

    Join Us at Cisco Live North America! 

    Ready to see Cisco Meraki and Ansible Automation Platform in action? Join us at Cisco Live North America! Here are a few sessions to add to your agenda that showcase the power of these technologies:

    Unite Meraki, Catalyst, and ISE with Ansible – DEVWKS-2301 

    • Monday, Jun 9, 2:00 PM – 2:45 PM PDT
    • Speakers:
      • Francois Caen, Product Manager, Cisco – Distinguished Speaker
      • Oren Brigg, Engineering Product Manager, Cisco
      • Craig Egan, System Engineer, Cisco

    Extending automation to remote branch networks (Meraki) – DEVRHL-1004 

    • Check Cisco Live U.S. Catalog, multiple times available
      • Speaker: Demond Green, Specialist Solutions Architect, Red Hat

    Seamless Network Provisioning: A Meraki and Ansible Lab – LABMER-1100 

    • Check Cisco Live U.S. Catalog, multiple times available
      • Speaker: Daniel Chaves, Customer Delivery Architect, Cisco

    Dive deeper with Red Hat content

    For more in-depth information, check out the resources available from Cisco and Red Hat:

    You can also:


    We’d love to hear what you think. Ask a Question, Comment Below, and Stay Connected with #CiscoPartners on social!

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  • Timor-Leste to deport ex-lawmaker Teves

    Timor-Leste to deport ex-lawmaker Teves



    MANILA, Philippines — The government of Timor-Leste on Wednesday announced that it will deport expelled Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo Teves Jr. back to the country to face the murder cases lodged against him.

    The statement from the Timor-Leste government came after Teves was arrested by Timorese immigration authorities on Tuesday evening at his house in the capital city of Dili.

    READ: Arnolfo Teves rearrested in Timor Leste; son cries ‘kidnap’

    Article continues after this advertisement

    According to the Timor-Leste government, it considers Teves’ presence within their jurisdiction a threat to national security and interests, particularly, in its bilateral relations with the Philippines.

    “The Government hereby informs that Arnolfo Teves Jr. will be deported from Timor-Leste by administrative decision of the Ministry of the Interior, as he is in the country without a valid visa, lacking legal authorization to remain, and holding a passport that the Government of the Philippines has cancelled,” the Timorese government said.

    “The decision, which takes effect immediately, is based on national legislation regarding migration and asylum and is grounded in the risks that this citizen’s continued presence poses to public order and national security,” it added.

    Apart from deporting Teves, the Timor-Leste government also announced that in accordance with its Migration and Asylum Law, the expelled lawmaker will be prohibited from entering their territory for a period of 10 years.

    The Timor-Leste government explained that in deporting Teves, it frees itself from being seen as a “refuge for individuals fleeing international justice.”

    Article continues after this advertisement

    “The Government reaffirms its commitment to the principles of the rule of law, respect for international norms concerning cooperation between states, and the safeguarding of security and stability not only within the national territory but also in the Southeast Asia region, in coordination with the collective efforts of Asean (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Member States,” the Timorese government said.

    Although the Timorese government has announced its intention to deport Teves, it has not specified the exact date of his deportation.

    Article continues after this advertisement

    Teves is currently facing multiple counts of murder and frustrated murder. He was tagged as the alleged mastermind behind the assassination of then Negros Oriental governor Roel Degamo—also known as the Pamplona Massacre—in 2023. /cb



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  • How We Protect Our Blended Family – Life Happens

    How We Protect Our Blended Family – Life Happens


    “When we, as LGBTQ+ adults, make the decision to get into a relationship and start a family, it’s not always with the support of our own family.” That is a poignant statement that will resonate with a lot of people.

    This insight came from MyLin and SK Stokes Kennedy, who are married and raising their blended family in Southern California. The couple appeared on season six of “Black Love,” where they opened up about the challenges of cultivating their partnership and raising three children.

    We are thrilled that they agreed to work with us again this year on spreading the message about the importance of life insurance.

    Life insurance? You may ask, “Where does that come into all of this?” Well, it may be more important than most people think, so read on as we chat with MyLin and SK.

     

    Life Happens: When is the first time you both heard about life insurance?

    MyLin + SK: We became familiar with it after getting married but didn’t get it until we were pregnant with our first child together.

     

    LH: Why did each of you decide to purchase life insurance?

    MyLin + SK: We realized that we didn’t want the other, or our kids, to suffer financially in the midst of grieving if, or when, something happens to us.

     

    LH: What type of coverage do both of you have and why?

    MyLin + SK: We currently have term life insurance. In doing research, we found that it was the least expensive option at this point for us.

     

    LH: Why should everyone have life insurance, especially LGBTQ+ adults?

    MyLin + SK: When we, as LGBTQ+ adults, make the decision to get into a relationship and start a family, it’s not always with the support of our own family. So, if something happens to us, there is the chance that our desires are not withheld by the surviving family. Wills can be contested, things drawn out. With life insurance, you can ensure that your partner and kids receive what you want them to.

     

    LH: Have you had conversations about life insurance with your family or friends?

    MyLin + SK: Yes, we’ve had convos with both. With our moms being the most important ones because of what positions we may be left in if they don’t have life insurance.

     

    LH: What did one of those conversations look like?

    MyLin: So, I found out my mom had a very small policy through her job that was under $10,000, which isn’t covering her funeral costs. That led to us looking into getting her a proper policy that would cover her funeral costs (my mom knows a lot of people so it will be big, and we will need funds), bills/debt, mortgage, her car note. There is so much that I don’t want to fall on my brother and I or have to create a GoFundMe and beg people for it. I just want it already taken care of.

     

    LH: What does life insurance mean to you?

    MyLin + SK: For us it means security and peace of mind, knowing that if anything unfortunate happens to either of us (or both of us), our kids will be taken care of.

     

    LH: What do you wish more people knew about life insurance?

    MyLin + SK: We wish people understood the gravity it held. How much pain and stress dealing with financial struggles after losing a loved one can be and that we can do something about it now. We just need the knowledge and awareness spread that it’s not a huge, expensive monthly bill.

     

    LH: What research findings from our 2024 Insurance Barometer Study (Life Happens and LIMRA) do you find the most interesting?

    MyLin + SK: I was interested to see that 62% of people that said they don’t have life insurance also feel as though they need it. The desire is there, they just need more knowledge. So, there is opportunity there to get them the knowledge they need to make that next step.

     

    LH: We agree—and that really is our mission!

    MyLin + SK: And then that 22% of people that do have it say they need more. I feel like we land in that 22%. We’ve had life insurance for about five years now and pay $83 a month for all our policies, which includes $150,000 policies for each of us as parents and $15,000 policies for each of our three kids. 

    Our goal is to jump up to $500,000 of coverage on us as parents because we want our kids to have funds for their future education, just not paying off bills and debt. So even we know that there is room for growth and to receive more knowledge. That’s why we like partnering with you all. It motivates us to dig a little deeper and get more knowledge—and also to share it. Because we know more people need it.

     

    Get Started

    Don’t let being unsure of how much or what kind of life insurance to buy stop you from getting coverage. To start, you can do a quick calculation with our Life Insurance Needs Calculator to get a general idea of how much you may need. And if you want help choosing the right kind of policy that fits your budget, you can talk with an insurance professional at no cost or obligation. If you don’t have someone to work with, you can use Life Happens’ Agent Locator here.



  • Claim home loan tax benefits & Save Lakhs

    Claim home loan tax benefits & Save Lakhs


    Owning a home is a cherished milestone for many, but beyond the emotional value and security it brings, it also offers significant financial advantages. One of the most rewarding aspects is the home loan tax benefit. It substantially reduces your annual tax liability.

    If you’re servicing a home loan, both the principal and interest components of your EMI (Equated Monthly Instalment) are eligible for tax deductions. With proper guidance from a tax advisor or expert tax consulting services, you can make smarter financial decisions.

    Let’s explore the various tax-saving opportunities your home loan offers and how to make the most of them.

    Understanding Your EMI: Principal and Interest

    It’s essential to understand your home loan EMI structure. Every EMI consists of two parts:

    • Principal repayment – the amount that reduces your actual loan.
    • Interest payment – the cost you pay to borrow the money.

    The home loan tax benefit applies to both components but under different sections of the Income Tax Act. Understanding these sections is key to effective tax planning and tax saving on home loan repayments.

    1. Principal Repayment – Section 80C

    Under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, you can claim a deduction of up to ₹1.5 lakh per financial year on the principal component of your home loan EMI. This section also includes other investments like ELSS, PPF, NSC, and life insurance premiums, so your total deduction across all eligible instruments is capped at ₹1.5 lakh.

    Eligibility Conditions:

    • The home loan must be from a recognised financial institution or bank.
    • The property should not be sold within five years from the end of the financial year in which possession was obtained; otherwise, the claimed deduction will be reversed.

    A professional tax advisor can help you balance your Section 80C investments smartly to ensure optimal tax benefit without duplication or overlap.

    2. Interest Payment – Section 24(b)

    One of the most valuable home loan tax benefits comes under Section 24(b), which allows for an annual deduction of up to ₹2 lakh on the interest paid on home loans for self-occupied properties.

    For Rented Properties:

    • If your property is rented out, there is no cap on the interest deduction. However, total loss from house property that can be adjusted against other income is limited to ₹2 lakh per year.

    Eligibility Conditions:

    • The loan must be taken for purchase or construction of a house.
    • The construction or acquisition must be completed within five years from the end of the financial year in which the loan was taken.
    • You must have an interest certificate from your lender as proof.

    Tax consulting services can guide you on how to structure your finances if you’re managing multiple properties or rental income.

    3. Additional Tax Deductions for First-Time Buyers

    First-time homebuyers are eligible for additional tax benefits beyond Sections 80C and 24(b), thanks to Section 80EE and Section 80EEA.

    80EE Tax Benefit:

    • Deduction of up to ₹50,000 on interest paid, over and above Section 24(b).
    • Applicable only if:
      • Loan is sanctioned between April 1, 2016, and March 31, 2017.
      • Property value does not exceed ₹50 lakh.
      • Loan amount does not exceed ₹35 lakh.
      • You do not own any other residential property at the time of loan sanction.

    Section 80EEA:

    • Offers an additional deduction of up to ₹1.5 lakh on interest.
    • Applicable if:
      • Loan was sanctioned between April 1, 2019, and March 31, 2022.
      • Property value does not exceed ₹45 lakh.
      • You are a first-time homeowner.

    These provisions can help first-time buyers save up to ₹3.5 lakh annually on interest paid. Consulting a trusted tax advisor ensures you meet the eligibility requirements and avoid claim rejections.

    4. Joint Home Loans – Doubling the Benefits

    If you’re buying a house jointly (e.g., with your spouse or parents), and both parties are co-owners and co-borrowers, you can effectively double your home loan tax benefit.

    Each co-borrower can claim:

    • ₹1.5 lakh under Section 80C for principal repayment
    • ₹2 lakh under Section 24(b) for interest payment

    This strategy works best in dual-income households where both partners file tax returns and contribute to EMI payments. Structured properly with help from tax consulting services, joint loans can significantly lower the family’s total tax liability.

    5. Tax Benefits for Under-Construction Properties

    If your home is still under construction, you won’t be able to claim deductions under Section 24(b) until possession is obtained. However, there’s a provision for pre-construction interest deduction.

    You can claim the total interest paid during the construction phase in five equal installments starting from the year of possession, subject to the ₹2 lakh annual cap under Section 24(b).

    While the principal repayment won’t qualify under Section 80C until construction is completed, tracking and documenting your payments from day one is essential for future tax claims.

    6. How to Maximise Your Home Loan Tax Savings

    To ensure you’re extracting the full value of your home loan tax benefit, follow these tips:

    • Maintain accurate records: Always collect your interest and principal certificates from your lender annually.
    • Time your possession carefully: Delays in construction can impact your eligibility for deductions under Section 24(b).
    • Leverage joint ownership: Distribute ownership and repayment in a way that maximises deductions for all borrowers.
    • Hire a professional: A certified tax advisor can assess your income, property details, and loan terms to customise your tax strategy.

    7. How Fincart Can Help You Save More

    At Fincart, we believe that informed financial choices lead to long-term wealth and security. Our expert tax consulting services are designed to help individuals, especially salaried professionals and young homeowners, navigate the complexities of tax laws.

    Whether you’re claiming your first 80EE tax benefit, figuring out joint loan strategies, or juggling multiple deductions, our dedicated team will ensure you’re not leaving any money on the table.

    We offer:

    • Personalised tax consultation sessions
    • Documentation review and filing support
    • Home loan benefit optimisation
    • Guidance on real estate-linked tax strategies

    With Fincart, you don’t just buy a house—you unlock financial potential.

    Conclusion

    A home loan is more than a step toward property ownership—it’s a powerful tool for reducing your tax burden. From principal repayment under 80C and interest deduction under 24(b) to exclusive 80EE tax benefits for first-time buyers, the Indian tax system offers multiple avenues to make homeownership financially rewarding.

    By understanding these deductions and aligning your loan strategy with expert advice from tax advisors and tax consulting services, you can maximise your tax saving on home loan and take a smarter path toward wealth creation.

    Let Fincart help you take full advantage of your home loan benefits. Speak to our tax experts today and start saving smarter!



  • The Magic of Mindful Self-Awareness – BionicOldGuy

    The Magic of Mindful Self-Awareness – BionicOldGuy


    This is an excellent book I recently read by Matt Tenney. The title, and the message of the book, are reminiscent of Thich Nhat Hanh’s classic The Miracle of Mindfulness. The magic, or miracle, happens when you spend more of your time paying 100% attention to what you are presently doing. This make you spend less time worrying about the future or reliving painful moments from the past, and more time in the present. This is something I’ve been working on for some time but it is admittedly difficult to do on a regular basis.

    This book gave me motivation to try harder. There is an amazing story at the beginning where Matt discovered this. He had made a bad error in judgement which led him to a very distressing place (he attempted to commit fraud and ended up in prison). After a couple of years there he noticed that instead of ruminating about how bad his situation was, if he just paid full attention while brushing his teeth he felt a lot better. The same thing happened while walking or doing other routine activities. He decided to try do this all the time, and essentially re-framed being in prison almost to being on a long retreat. He has spent his life since then serving others and trying to pass on this message.

    So can those of us whose day to day life is not as bad as being in prison do the same transformation? It is worth a try!



  • 5 Best Online Community Management Software I’d Recommend

    5 Best Online Community Management Software I’d Recommend


    I used to think building a community just meant “posting consistently” and praying someone commented. Spoiler: it doesn’t work that way. Whether you’re a startup founder, a SaaS marketer, or a creator trying to keep your small community of audience from turning into a ghost town, community management is hard.

    Before I got into content marketing, I dipped my toes into the community world and quickly realized that building real connections takes more than good vibes and emojis. So, I did what marketers do best: I over-researched like crazy. I compared 20+ tools to find the best online community management software to keep people engaged, active, and actually coming back.

    Of course, there’s Slack, Reddit, Discord, and even Facebook Groups, but most of those weren’t built to scale or support the kind of branded, intentional community experience I was after.

    In this list, I’m breaking down the standouts, from sleek all-in-one platforms to lightweight tools perfect for early-stage communities. Whether you’re focused on user growth, member retention, or just want a place your community actually wants to hang out in, there’s something here for you.

    (more…)

  • This county voted for Trump. It also depends heavily on Medicaid : Shots

    This county voted for Trump. It also depends heavily on Medicaid : Shots


    An old mine cart is parked outside the Gila County Historical Museum in Globe, Arizona. The small building is in a desert landscape.

    An old mine cart is parked outside the Gila County Historical Museum in Globe, Ariz. Mining is still part of the local economy, but many area residents have low-wage jobs that make them eligible for Medicaid.

    Linda Gross for KFF Health News


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    Linda Gross for KFF Health News

    GLOBE, Ariz. — Like many residents of this copper-mining town in the mountains east of Phoenix, Debbie Cox knows plenty of people on Medicaid.

    Cox, who is a property manager at a real estate company in Globe, has tenants who rely on the safety-net program. And at the domestic violence shelter where she volunteers as president of the board, Cox said, staff always look to enroll women and their children if possible.

    But Cox, who is 65, has mixed feelings about Medicaid.

    “It’s not that I don’t see the need for it. I see the need for it literally on a weekly basis,” she said. “I also see a need for revamping it significantly because it’s been taken advantage of for so long.”

    It wasn’t hard to find people in Globe like Cox with complicated views about Medicaid.

    Debbie Cox, 65, has blond hair and wears glasses. She sits behind a desk and has a concerned expression on her face.

    Debbie Cox, a property manager, says she has tenants who need Medicaid to get medical care, but she also thinks the program needs to be strengthened to prevent abuses.

    Linda Gross for KFF Health News


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    Linda Gross for KFF Health News

    Gila County, where Globe is located, is a conservative place — almost 70% of voters went for President Trump in November. And concerns about government waste run deep.

    Like many rural communities, it’s also a place where people have come to value government health insurance. The number of Gila County residents on Medicaid and the related Children’s Health Insurance Program has nearly doubled over the past 15 years, according to data from the Georgetown University Center for Children and Families. Today, almost 4 in 10 residents are on one of the health insurance plans for low- and moderate-income people or those with disabilities.

    So, since House Republicans passed plans to cut roughly $716 billion from Medicaid, the national debate taking place over the program hits close to home for many Globe residents, even as some welcome the prospect of tighter rules and less government spending.

    For a rancher

    For Heather Heisler, the stakes are high. Her husband has been on Medicaid for years.

    “We’re ranchers, and there’s not much money in ranching,” said Heisler, who gets her own health care from the Indian Health Service. “Most people think there is, but there isn’t.”

    Heisler was selling handicrafts outside the old county jail in Globe on a recent Friday night when the town hosted a downtown street fair with food trucks and live music.

    She said Medicaid was especially helpful after her husband had an accident on the ranch. A forklift tipped over, and he had to have part of his left foot amputated.

    “If anything happens, he’s able to go to the doctor,” she said. “Go to the emergency room, get medicines.”

    She shook her head when asked what would happen if he lost the coverage. “It would be very bad for him,” she said.

    Among other things, the “Big, Beautiful Bill” passed by House Republicans would require working-age Medicaid enrollees to prove they are employed or seeking work. The bill, which has advanced to the Senate, would also mandate more paperwork from people to prove they’re eligible.

    Difficult applications can dissuade many people from enrolling in Medicaid, even if they’re eligible, researchers have found. And the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimates more than 10 million people will likely lose Medicaid and CHIP insurance under the House Republican plan.

    That would reverse big gains made possible by the 2010 Affordable Care Act that has allowed millions of low-income, working-age adults in places like Globe to get health insurance.

    More people with health insurance

    Nationally, Medicaid and CHIP have expanded dramatically over the past two decades, with enrollment in the programs surging from about 56 million in 2005 to more than 78 million last year, according to federal data.

    “Medicaid has always played an important role,” said Joan Alker, who runs the Georgetown University Center for Children and Families. “But its role has only grown over the last couple of decades. It really stepped in to address many of the shortcomings in our health care system.”

    That’s particularly true in rural areas, where the share of people with disabilities is higher, residents have lower incomes, and communities are reliant on industries with skimpier health benefits such as agriculture and retail.

    In Globe, former Mayor Fernando Shipley said he’s seen this firsthand.

    “A lot of people think, ‘Oh, those are the people that aren’t working.’ Not necessarily,” said Shipley, who operates a State Farm office across the road from the rusted remains of the Old Dominion copper mine. “If you’re a single parent with two kids and you’re making $20 an hour,” he added, “you’re not making ends meet. You’ve got to pay rent; you’ve got to feed those kids.”

    Fernando Shipley perches on a desk in an office packed with books, plants and pictures on the walls. He is smiling and wearing glasses.

    Fernando Shipley is the former mayor of Globe, Ariz. He says many of the people who rely on Medicaid are working, and otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford health care for their families.

    Linda Gross for KFF Health News


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    Linda Gross for KFF Health News

    Not far away, at the local hospital, some low-wage workers at the registration desk and in housekeeping get health care through Medicaid, chief financial officer Harold Dupper said. “As much as you’d like to pay everyone $75,000- or $80,000-a-year, the hospital couldn’t stay in business if that was the payroll,” he said, noting the financial challenges faced by rural hospitals.

    The growing importance of Medicaid in places like Globe helps explain why Republican efforts to cut the program face so much resistance, even among conservatives.

    “There’s been a shift in the public’s attitude, and particularly voters on the right, that sometimes government plays a role in getting people health care. And that’s OK,” said pollster Bob Ward. “And if you take away that health care, people are going to be angry.”

    Ward’s Washington, D.C., firm, Fabrizio Ward, polls for Trump, among other clients. He also works for a coalition trying to protect Medicaid.

    At the same time, many of the communities where Medicaid has become more vital in recent years remain very conservative politically.

    More than two-thirds of nearly 300 U.S. counties with the biggest growth in Medicaid and CHIP since 2008 backed Trump in the last election, according to a KFF Health News analysis of voting results and enrollment data from Georgetown. Many of these counties are in deep-red states such as Kentucky, Louisiana, and Montana.

    Voters in places like these are more likely to be concerned about government waste, polls show. In one recent national survey, 75% of Republicans said they think waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicaid is a major problem.

    The actual scale of that waste is hotly debated, though many analysts believe relatively few enrollees are abusing the program.

    Mountains of mine tailings, or waste, above the valley where Globe, Arizona, is located. The the vista is photographed from above.

    Mountains of mine tailings, or waste, above the valley where Globe, Ariz., is located. The area has been a center for copper mining since the 19th century.

    Linda Gross for KFF Health News


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    Linda Gross for KFF Health News

    Nevertheless, around Globe, Republican arguments that cuts will streamline Medicaid seemed to resonate.

    Retiree Rick Uhl was stacking chairs and helping clean up after lunch at the senior center.

    “There’s a lot of waste, of money not being accounted for,” Uhl said. “I think that’s a shame.”

    Uhl said he’s been saddened by the political rancor, but he said he’s encouraged by the Trump administration’s aggressive efforts to cut government spending.

    Back at the street fair downtown, David Sander, who is also retired, said he doubted Medicaid would really be trimmed at all.

    “I’ve heard that they really aren’t cutting it,” Sander said. “That’s my understanding.”

    Sander and his wife, Linda, were tending a stall selling embroidery that Linda makes. They also have a neighbor on Medicaid.

    “She wouldn’t be able to live without it,” Linda Sander said. “Couldn’t afford to have an apartment, make her bills and survive.”

    KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFF — the independent source for health policy research, polling, and journalism.

  • Prevent Distracted Driving During Awareness Month

    Prevent Distracted Driving During Awareness Month


    2025-05-12T18:38:39+00:00



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  • PFIC Rules for Indian NRIs in USA: Tax Impact & Solutions

    PFIC Rules for Indian NRIs in USA: Tax Impact & Solutions


    Confused about PFIC rules for Indian NRIs in USA? Learn how PFIC affects your Indian mutual funds, tax filing, and smart alternatives to avoid penalties.

    If you’re an NRI living in the US and investing in Indian mutual funds or other foreign assets, then you might have come across a scary term called PFIC or Passive Foreign Investment Company. Many NRIs panic when they hear this, mainly because of the complex taxation and reporting rules around it. In this article, I’ll break it down for you in simple terms so that you know what PFIC is, how it affects you as an NRI, and what steps you can take to handle it smartly.

    PFIC Rules for Indian NRIs in USA: Tax Impact & Solutions

    PFIC Rules for Indian NRIs in USA

    What is PFIC?

    PFIC stands for Passive Foreign Investment Company. It is a concept under the US Internal Revenue Code (IRC Section 1297). This rule was introduced to prevent US taxpayers from deferring tax or converting ordinary income to capital gains through foreign investments that generate passive income.

    So, what exactly qualifies as a PFIC?

    A foreign (non-US) company is considered a PFIC if it meets either of the following conditions in a tax year:

    1. Income Test: 75% or more of the company’s gross income is passive income (like interest, dividends, capital gains, rents, royalties).
    2. Asset Test: 50% or more of the company’s assets produce or are held to produce passive income.

    Why Should NRIs in the US Care About PFIC?

    Let’s say you are an NRI living in the US and you are investing in Indian mutual funds, ETFs, or ULIPs. From the US tax perspective, many of these investment instruments qualify as PFICs.

    This means:

    • The IRS considers these investments as tax shelters, and
    • You will be subject to punitive taxation rules and mandatory filing requirements.

    Common Indian Investments That May Be Considered PFICs

    • Mutual Funds (equity, debt, or hybrid)
    • ULIPs (Unit Linked Insurance Plans)
    • Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs)
    • REITs or Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs)

    This is because most of these funds are registered as foreign corporations in India and earn passive income. Hence, under PFIC rules, they become taxable under special rules in the US.

    How is a PFIC Taxed in the USA?

    If you hold a PFIC, you have three options for reporting and taxation under the US tax law:

    1. Default Taxation (Excess Distribution Method) – Most Penal

    • Under this method, any gains from the sale or income (dividends) from PFIC are taxed at the highest marginal tax rate applicable in the year the income is recognized.
    • The IRS applies interest charges as if the income had been earned and untaxed over several years.
    • This is extremely punitive and complicated.

    Example: You sold an Indian mutual fund with Rs.5 lakh gain. Instead of long-term capital gains (20% in India), IRS may tax it as if you earned Rs.1 lakh each year over 5 years and didn’t pay tax — and add interest.

    2. Qualified Electing Fund (QEF) Election

    • You must obtain annual information from the PFIC to declare your share of income and capital gains.
    • This election is rarely practical because Indian mutual fund houses don’t provide QEF statements or financial data in the required IRS format.
    • Hence, for most NRIs, this option is not feasible.

    Problem: No Indian mutual fund (SBI, HDFC, ICICI, etc.) provides these QEF statements. So, this is not practical for Indian investors.

    3. Mark-to-Market (MTM) Election

    • If you elect this method, you declare annual unrealized gains/losses based on the fair market value of your investment at year-end.
    • Gains are taxed as ordinary income, while losses are allowed to the extent of prior-year gains.
    • However, this is applicable only for publicly traded PFICs (which most Indian mutual funds are not).
    • Again, not practical for most Indian investments.

    Problem: Most Indian mutual funds are not traded on US-recognized exchanges, so this method is unavailable for most NRIs.

    Bottom line: For most NRIs investing in Indian mutual funds, taxation under the default PFIC rules applies — which is the most complex and harsh.

    Reporting Requirements: Form 8621

    If you are a US person (citizen or resident alien), and you own PFICs directly or indirectly, you are required to file Form 8621 along with your US tax return.

    • One form is required per PFIC investment per year.
    • If you hold multiple mutual funds, you’ll need to file multiple forms (If you hold 10 mutual funds, you need 10 forms.)
    • Even if you didn’t sell or earn anything, you still have to report.
    • No minimum threshold — even a Rs.10,000 investment is reportable.
    • Missing this form can keep your entire tax return open for audit forever.
    • Failing to file Form 8621 can result in penalties, delays in tax processing, and extended audit windows.

    Many tax preparers charge high fees (CPA costs: $100 to $300 per form — which adds up quickly!)to file Form 8621 because of its complexity. If you don’t file it correctly, you might end up with IRS scrutiny or overpaying taxes.

    Practical Examples for Indian NRIs

    Let’s make it real with a simple example.

    Scenario:

    • You moved to the US in 2022 on H1B.
    • You already had Rs.20 lakhs in Indian mutual funds (5 different schemes).
    • You didn’t sell anything in 2022.
    • You think there’s no tax — but that’s wrong.

    IRS says:

    File 5 Forms 8621 for each mutual fund.

    You may owe tax if the fund paid dividends or showed gains.

    Even unrealized gains may be taxed under the default method.

    Not filing = Audit risk + Penalties.

    Latest Developments and IRS Guidance (As of 2024-2025)

    Here are the emerging PFIC-related developments and enforcement trends you must know as an NRI:

    1. Increased IRS Scrutiny Under FATCA & CRS

    The IRS is using data shared under FATCA (Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act) and Common Reporting Standards (CRS) to identify foreign investment holdings of US residents. NRIs with undeclared mutual funds or ULIPs are increasingly at risk of:

    • Audits
    • Penalties for missed filings (especially Form 8621, FBAR, Form 8938)

    Even if you have no taxable gain, not filing Form 8621 when required may leave your entire return open to audit indefinitely.

    2. Tax Software Integration Still Lags

    Though platforms like TurboTax and H&R Block now flag PFICs, they don’t support Form 8621 directly. Many NRIs are being forced to file via CPAs or manually using fillable PDF forms.

    This increases the cost of tax preparation, often:

    • $100–$300 per Form 8621 per fund per year

    If you have 10 Indian mutual funds, your filing cost alone may run into thousands of dollars.

    3. No Indian Mutual Fund AMC Offers QEF Reporting

    A Qualified Electing Fund (QEF) election is the most tax-friendly way to handle PFICs — but it requires specific annual disclosures from the fund (income, capital gains, etc.) in IRS format.

    As of 2025:

    • No Indian AMC (SBI, HDFC, ICICI, etc.) provides QEF statements.
    • So QEF election is not possible.
    • You’re left with Default or Mark-to-Market (MTM) — both tax-heavy.

    4. Mutual Fund Units May Be Deemed Sold Even Without Selling

    If you make a gift, switch plans (from regular to direct), or transfer funds between AMCs, it may be treated as a “constructive sale” for US tax purposes, triggering PFIC taxation.

    5. IRS Watch on Cryptocurrency and PFIC Overlaps

    Some Indian crypto-based ETFs and structured notes are beginning to emerge, which also fall under PFIC classification. Expect tighter rules and tracking on:

    • Crypto-linked funds
    • Hybrid products combining equity + crypto

    Indian Investments That Are NOT PFICs

    Investment Type PFIC Status Reason
    Direct Indian Stocks (Equity) Not PFIC You own the company directly — not pooled funds.
    NRE/NRO/FCNR Bank Deposits Not PFIC Fixed deposits, not investment companies.
    Government Bonds (G-Secs, SDLs, T-Bills) Not PFIC Issued by Govt. of India.
    PPF / EPF Not PFIC Government retirement schemes, not pooled funds.
    Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs) Not PFIC Issued by RBI.
    Traditional LIC Plans (non-ULIP) Not PFIC Treated as insurance, not investment pool.
    Direct Real Estate (Physical property) Not PFIC Not a fund; you directly own the asset.

    Indian Investments That ARE PFICs

    Investment Type PFIC Status Reason
    Indian Mutual Funds (Equity/Debt) PFIC Pooled funds earning passive income.
    ULIPs (Investment-linked plans) PFIC Treated as investment companies by IRS.
    ETFs by Indian AMCs PFIC Corporate structures generating passive returns.
    REITs/InvITs PFIC Structured like companies, distribute passive income.
    AIFs (Cat I & II) PFIC Investment fund nature.
    Portfolio Management Services (PMS) PFIC Usually pooled — treated like PFICs.

    What Are Your Options as an Indian NRI in the USA?

    Option 1: Avoid PFICs Altogether

    • If you are planning to stay in the US long term, it’s simpler to avoid Indian mutual funds.
    • Invest in US-based India-focused ETFs (like INDA, EPI).
    • These are not PFICs, easier to report, and have lower tax headaches.

    Option 2: Shift to Non-PFIC Indian Assets

    Consider moving your investments to:

    • Direct Indian stocks (e.g., Reliance, TCS).
    • NRE/NRO FDs – though interest is taxable, they’re not PFICs.
    • Government bonds – G-Secs, T-Bills, or RBI Floating Rate Bonds.
    • SGBs – offers gold exposure without PFIC classification.

    Caution: Selling existing PFICs may trigger taxes — consult a tax expert first.

    Option 3: Retain PFICs But File Diligently

    If you prefer to hold Indian mutual funds:

    • Budget for annual CPA filing costs.
    • File Form 8621 properly.
    • Understand that taxation will be harsh (especially on gains).

    Common Mistakes NRIs Make

    Thinking PFIC rules apply only when you sell – Wrong.

    Skipping Form 8621 due to small balances – Wrong.

    Gifting Indian mutual funds to avoid PFIC – May trigger “constructive sale.”

    Believing ULIPs are exempt – Wrong, IRS treats them as PFICs.

    Ignoring older Indian investments – IRS looks at current holding, not purchase date.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – PFIC for NRIs in the US

    1. Does PFIC apply to investments made before moving to the US?

    Yes, it can apply, and this is where many NRIs get caught off guard.

    • The IRS does not care when or where you invested. If you’re now a US tax resident, all your global investments — including those made in India before moving — must be reported as per US tax laws.
    • So, even if you invested in Indian mutual funds 5 years ago, and moved to the US last year, you may still need to:
      • File Form 8621 for each mutual fund (or PFIC) you continue to hold.
      • Report income, gains, and even unrealized gains, depending on the PFIC method applied.

    Example: You bought Rs.10 lakhs of mutual funds in 2020 while in India. In 2024, you move to the US. From the day you become a US tax resident, any gains or income generated are taxable in the US, and PFIC rules kick in — even if you didn’t sell.

    2. What if I never sold my Indian mutual funds? Do I still need to report them?

    Yes. Just holding a PFIC like an Indian mutual fund requires reporting.

    • Whether or not you sell, you must file Form 8621 every year.
    • There’s no de minimis threshold — even small balances are reportable.

    Skipping the filing can leave your entire US tax return open for audit indefinitely.

    3. Can I avoid PFIC by investing through a US-based brokerage in Indian ETFs?

    Yes. Many NRIs prefer using US-domiciled ETFs (like iShares MSCI India ETF – INDA or WisdomTree India Earnings Fund – EPI) that provide exposure to Indian markets.

    • These are not PFICs, as they’re structured under US tax laws.
    • Gains and dividends are treated like any other US investment — simpler reporting and lower tax impact.

    4. Can I gift or transfer Indian mutual funds to family members in India to avoid PFIC filing?

    Technically yes, but it’s not that simple.

    • A gift or transfer is often considered a “constructive sale” by the IRS, triggering PFIC taxation.
    • You may owe taxes as if you sold it at fair market value, even if you didn’t receive any money.
    • Always consult a cross-border CPA before doing this.

    5. Is a ULIP still a PFIC if it has an insurance component?

    Yes. Even though ULIPs are marketed as insurance in India, they’re treated as investment funds by the IRS if they:

    • Don’t meet US insurance definitions, or
    • Accumulate passive investment income

    ULIPs are almost always treated as PFICs unless structured carefully — which Indian insurers don’t usually do with US compliance in mind.

    6. Can I switch from Regular to Direct Plan in mutual funds without triggering PFIC taxes?

    Unfortunately, no.

    • Any switch is considered a sale and a new purchase.
    • The IRS may treat it as a disposition of PFIC shares, triggering taxation under the default PFIC method (which can be quite punitive).

    7. I’ve held Indian mutual funds for over 10 years. Should I sell them now?

    Selling PFICs may be wise to avoid future complexities, but:

    • The act of selling triggers PFIC tax rules if done while you’re a US resident.
    • It’s best to do a PFIC impact analysis with a tax advisor.
    • You may explore electing the Mark-to-Market method (if eligible), which taxes gains annually instead of on sale — sometimes simplifying the burden.

    8. Can I use the QEF method to report Indian mutual funds?

    No — at least, not practically.

    • The QEF (Qualified Electing Fund) method is the most tax-friendly PFIC reporting method.
    • But it requires annual statements from the fund in a format that complies with IRS rules.
    • No Indian AMC provides these — so QEF is not available for Indian mutual funds today.

    9. Is EPF or PPF considered PFIC?

    No.

    • EPF and PPF are government-backed retirement schemes, not pooled passive investment companies.
    • However, the interest earned is taxable in the US (even if tax-free in India).
    • You may still need to report them under FBAR or FATCA if balances exceed thresholds.

    10. What happens if I don’t report my PFICs to the IRS?

    There are serious risks:

    • IRS may impose penalties for non-disclosure, especially for high-value assets.
    • You may lose eligibility for statute of limitations — i.e., your entire tax return stays open for audit indefinitely.
    • Future green card or citizenship processes may be affected by tax non-compliance.

    Filing even a zero-dollar Form 8621 can protect you from these consequences.

    What About NRIs in Other Countries?

    The PFIC rule is only applicable to US tax residents or citizens. If you are an NRI living in UAE, UK, Singapore, Australia, etc., then PFIC does not apply to you.

    However, each country may have its own tax rules for foreign investments. For example:

    • UK has its own reporting fund regime.
    • Australia taxes foreign mutual funds differently.

    But PFIC rules are unique to the United States — and infamously complex.

    The PFIC rule is one of the most complicated tax regulations faced by NRIs in the US. If you are investing in Indian mutual funds or similar instruments, you are very likely dealing with PFICs — which means higher taxes, complex filings, and more compliance.

    It is not illegal to invest in PFICs, but you must be careful about reporting them correctly and understanding the tax consequences.

    As a fee-only financial planner, my advice is always to simplify your financial life. If the costs and compliance burden of PFIC rules outweigh the returns, then it may be better to explore US-domiciled alternatives or direct investments in India that do not fall under PFIC classification.

    When in doubt, always consult a qualified cross-border tax expert.

    Conclusion – If you are an Indian NRI living in the US, dealing with PFIC rules can be confusing and stressful. The IRS treats many common Indian investments like mutual funds, ULIPs, ETFs, and REITs as PFICs — which means more paperwork, higher taxes, and extra costs. But don’t worry — you can still manage it smartly. Once you understand which investments are considered PFICs and how they are taxed, you can make better decisions. Instead of mutual funds or ULIPs, you can choose simpler options like direct Indian stocks, NRE bank deposits, or US-based ETFs that invest in India — these are easier to manage and don’t fall under PFIC rules. You don’t have to stop investing in India completely. Just plan it carefully based on your current country of residence and tax rules. It’s always wise to take help from a cross-border tax expert and a fee-only financial planner who understands both US and Indian rules. With the right guidance, even complicated rules like PFIC can be handled smoothly and won’t come in the way of your financial goals.

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  • Holiday Gift Guide 2024 | Powercakes

    Holiday Gift Guide 2024 | Powercakes


    Holiday Gift Guide 2024

    December 8, 2024 –

    Happy Holiday Season, friends!! I can’t believe we’re already into the most wonderful time of the year (other than the summer, for me)!

    If you’re like me, I have a few “secret santa” gifts I need to get (asap) as well as get the hubs some surprises under the tree.

    If I had to make a list myself, I’d be putting all practical items as I wear these day in and day out with being a Trainer. Since I get to live in comfort, I can’t complain, and want to pass that along to others.

    The funny thing was this morning one of our in-house Physical Therapists at the gym said to be “Kasey you’re just one big adidas symbol” and I laughed because, well, it’s true! I had an olive green matching Fleece set on and I’d be lying if I said I didn’t have one in at least 4 different colors on rotation.

    So, whether you want to get yourself something special around this time of the year or pass along that comfort, here are my top adidas picks for the holidays!

    Holiday Gift Guide 2024 | Powercakes
    Women’s Hoodies: Guys, you can ask everyone in my gym about my go-to look as it’s gotten colder because THESE are it! I am totally obsessed with these Essentials Oversized Fleece Hoodies. I wear them paired with the Essentials Fleece Joggers either every or every other day. If I’m not in the oversized hoodie, I’m 100% in the Essentials Crew Fleece Sweatshirt because I’M IN MY COMFORT ERA.

    adidas Ultraboost 5X Running Shoe: I recently just did a blog post all about my love for these shoes! They aren’t too thick but not too thin – a perfect in between! Plus, I’m obsessed with the color.

    Tracksuit: I mean, can we go wrong with a matching set? No. If you don’t want the fleece options I listed above (my current wardrobe, lol) any of the adidas tracksuits are always in style!

    Sports Bra: adidas is known for their sports bras and they are also known to last. I personally go with their light support options, but any option you choose would be great. They also have ones with cute designs and also cute straps!

    Waterproof Hiking Shoes: These Terrex Free Hiker 2.0 Gore-Tex Hiking Shoes would be the perfect gift for your avid hiker! I, myself, love hiking but hate when my shoes get wet. These would provide support, comfort, & keep away the wet.

    Men’s Sneakers: Not only would these make a great gift for the guy in your life, but I’d honestly snag a pair for myself as well! I’ve been on the hunt for shoes to wear with jeans this year and these Gazelle Indoor Shoes have been all the rage!

    To add to any of these, you can’t go wrong with their socks, bags, or beanies!

    I hope you have a wonderful holiday season!

    Be true to you,

    Kasey