Woman's World

This Texas Mom Made $40K From a Single TikTok Shop Livestream. Here’s How One Evening Changed Everything

Ryan Brennan — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 00:13:46 +0000

If you have ever thought about turning a side hustle into something bigger, you are not alone. Millions of women are finding ways to build businesses from home, and some of them are doing it in places you might not expect.

April Duplantis is one of them. She founded Poppy Rose Print Company, a graphic tee and sweatshirt brand she runs with her family in Texas. What started as a way to earn money while raising her kids has turned into a business pulling in hundreds of thousands of dollars a month.

Her biggest single night? About $40,000 in sales from one TikTok livestream.

Whether you have been curious about TikTok Shop or just want to know how a mom like you pulled this off, here is what she did and why it worked.

How much did Poppy Rose Print make from one TikTok Shop livestream?

Duplantis told Making Sense of Cents that a single TikTok LIVE brought in roughly $40,000 in revenue before expenses. That is from one evening of selling graphic shirts and sweatshirts through her TikTok Shop.

Her business has grown steadily since she moved from Etsy to TikTok, with monthly revenue jumping from around $30,000 to well into the six figures. Poppy Rose’s website describes the brand as a top seller on both platforms.

How did she prepare for a $40,000 TikTok livestream?

Nothing about that night was improvised. “That Live worked because it was planned,” Duplantis told Making Sense of Cents.

She promoted the event in advance and registered it through her TikTok profile. Over 500 viewers signed up before the stream even started.

Behind the scenes, she spent hours arranging products, loading the shopping cart and setting up flash sales and buy-more-save-more deals. Every detail was locked in before the camera turned on.

What time is best for going live on TikTok Shop?

Duplantis says her strongest results come from going live between 5 and 8 p.m. That window works because viewers are typically winding down after work and browsing their phones before bed.

Timing a livestream around your audience’s habits can make a real difference in how many people actually show up.

What products work best for TikTok livestream shopping?

Duplantis does not guess what to sell. She pays close attention to what is already moving, which designs are trending and what her viewers respond to most.

Building each LIVE around products with proven demand means she is not hoping something catches on. She already knows it will.

How did she keep viewers engaged during the livestream?

The stream felt less like a sales pitch and more like a night out with friends. Duplantis stood, moved around, spoke directly to viewers and called out customers by name.

She also layered in giveaways, flash sales, coupons and buy-more-save-more offers throughout the evening. One strategy involved tying giveaways to engagement milestones like reaching 100,000 likes.

“People buy from people. That’s what I love about TikTok Live. It’s not just a listing on a screen. It’s connection,” she explained.

How popular is livestream shopping on TikTok?

It is growing fast. According to TikTok’s newsroom, 76% of shoppers who interacted with TikTok Shop had purchased something through a livestream in the prior year. Brands and creators in the U.S. hosted over 8 million hours of LIVE shopping content in 2024 alone.

Livestream shopping is not a niche trend anymore. It is becoming a mainstream way to buy and sell.

Can small businesses actually grow on TikTok Shop?

The numbers say yes. TikTok reported in May 2026 that 89% of small and midsize businesses surveyed saw their sales increase after promoting on the platform. Searches for “small business” on TikTok also jumped 479% in the first quarter of 2026.

For women running businesses from kitchen tables and home offices, TikTok Shop is becoming one of the fastest ways to reach new customers.

Are big brands using TikTok Shop too?

They are. Pacsun is one notable example. In 2023, a TikTok affiliate creator with just 5,000 followers helped turn the brand’s Casey jean into a viral sensation. Pacsun moved 11,000 pairs in 48 hours, and the style went on to generate $20 million in TikTok sales in 2024, according to Forbes.

“We’ve noticed that the virality really is in the hands of the creators,” Pacsun CEO Brie Olson told Forbes.

Crocs, Liquid I.V. and Glossier have joined the platform too. TikTok Shop is no longer just for small sellers. It is a sales channel that works at every level.

Here's When Your September Social Security Payment Arrives

Carissa Mosness — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 22:00:46 +0000

September is almost here, which means it’s almost time for another round of Social Security payments to go out. But will those payments arrive on time? And are there ways to stretch your payments throughout the month? We share everything seniors need to know, and share updates on the 2027 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), below.

When Social Security payments will arrive in September

In September, all payments are expected to arrive on time. Even with the Labor Day holiday on Monday, September 7, there are no changes to the payment schedule. This is different from the past two months, when a few payments went out early due to holidays and the beginning of the month falling on a weekend. You can view the entire September 2026 Social Security breakdown below.

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Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients will get their payments on Tuesday, September 1.
If you received Social Security before May 1997 or are receiving both Social Security and SSI, you’ll get both payments on Thursday, September 3.
If you were born on the 1st through the 10th of the month, your benefits will be sent out on Wednesday, September 9.
If you were born on the 11th through the 20th of the month, your benefits will be sent out on Wednesday, September 16.
If you were born on the 21st through the 31st of the month, your benefits will be sent out on Wednesday, September 23.

How to extend your monthly Social Security checks

No matter how much money you get from the Social Security Administration (SSA) each month, the fundamentals of making it stretch haven’t changed much—though it’s easy to overlook a few of them once you’ve heard “make a budget” one too many times.

Colin Ruggiero, co-founder of DisabilityGuidance.org, an organization dedicated to providing information and resources for those with disabilities who are seeking financial assistance through SSDI and SSI, recommends creating a budget and sticking to it. But the part people tend to skip, he says, is actually confirming they’re getting every benefit they qualify for—not just the obvious ones.

“Programs tied to the Social Security Administration, plus local and state aid, such as SNAP or Medicare savings programs, can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs and stretch your income. Maximizing your benefits is also a good way to get the most out of your Social Security check. If you have not claimed yet, delaying your Social Security—up to age 70—can permanently increase your monthly benefits.”

Will the 2027 COLA increase be announced in September?

Every year the SSA gives seniors a COLA increase to help them keep up with inflation. It’s typically announced in October.

“The SSA is scheduled to announce the 2027 COLA on October 14, which is also the same morning the September inflation report comes out,” Jason Gerstenberger, an independent insurance broker explains. “It comes out at this time because the COLA gets calculated by comparing third quarter inflation data (July, August, and September) to the same period the year before.”

As for how much the COLA will be, Gerstenberger estimates that it will be between 3.2 to 3.6 percent. For comparison, the 2026 COLA was 2.8 percent.

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“Inflation has been stubborn so far this year, so I would not be surprised at all to see it on the higher side,” he says. “The big thing to remember is COLA is not a raise, it’s a patch. The adjustment is for prices that have already gone up last year, so plan for it to bolster current bills but don’t look for new ways to spend the increase.”

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Score Huge Savings For National Senior Citizens Day Right Now

strotter — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 17:04:07 +0000

Today is National Senior Citizens Day, and there’s no better time to celebrate your golden years. One of the best perks of aging? The discounts! Many of your favorite retailers, restaurants and entertainment venues offer special deals just for seniors that can help you save money on your favorite meals and activities. If you’re ready to make the holiday extra special, we’re here to help. We rounded up the best senior discounts that make it easier than ever to enjoy the things you love—without breaking the bank.

Restaurant deals

Perkins

Many Perkins locations give seniors a chance to dine on homestyle staples for less thanks to a 55+ menu with reduced prices. The special menu features favorites from breakfast, lunch and dinner, and guests rave about the portion sizes. Contact your local Perkins restaurant to see if your local spot participates.

Jack in the Box

Whether you love burgers or tacos, you can treat yourself to the chain’s iconic menu items without spending a fortune. Most participating locations offer 10 to 20 percent off your bill, with some giving additional perks to eligible customers as well. Bring a form of ID and tell the Jack in the Box cashier or drive-thru employee that you’d like to take advantage of the senior discount if one is available.

AARP food discounts

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If you are an AARP member, you are automatically entitled to a 10-15 percent discount at many popular eateries. As you celebrate the holiday, head to one of these spots and present your membership card to score the savings!

Here are the chains that honor an AARP discount:

Auntie Anne’s
Bonefish Grill
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
Carrabba’s Italian Grill
Chart House
Cicis Pizza
Cinnabon
Denny’s
Jamba
Joe’s Crab Shack
Landry’s Inc. Restaurants
Landry’s Seafood
McAlister’s Deli
McCormick & Schmick’s
Moe’s Southwest Grill
Outback Steakhouse
Papa John’s
Rainforest Cafe
Saltgrass Steak House
Schlotzsky’s Deli
The Oceanaire Seafood Room

Entertainment discounts

AMC Theatres

Kick off your weekend—and celebrate National Senior Citizen Day—by enjoying one of the great flicks now in theaters. Whether you go for the action-packed Spider-Man: Brand New Day or the spicy women’s comedy Spa Weekend, you will be able to snag your ticket for around 30 percent off. Find a list of participating AMC Theatres near you here, then select the “Senior (60+)” ticket option when purchasing a ticket online or ask at the theater box office.

Regal Cinemas

No AMC Theatre near you? Movie-goers age 60+ are eligible for Regal Cinemas’ senior pricing. Like the discount at its competitor, this offer will save you up to 30 percent on tickets for eligible showtimes.

National parks

It’s easier than ever to cut costs when you visit one of our country’s gorgeous parks today. Though many are free to enter, others do require an entrance pass to visit. Luckily, the annual senior (62+) pass is priced at just $20 and will get you no-cost access at national parks and recreation sites for an entire year. If you are a frequent park-goer, consider purchasing the $80 pass option for seniors; it means free admission for life!

Whether you’re looking to enjoy a delicious meal, unwind at the movies or have a blast shopping, these fantastic discounts make it easier than ever to celebrate National Senior Citizens Day!

Circle K Fuel Day Is Back For One Day Only—Here’s How You Can Save 40 Cents a Gallon

Carissa Mosness — Wed, 12 Aug 2026 17:43:08 +0000

It seems everyone is talking about gas prices right now. Across the country, a gallon of gas costs about $4.03, but the price is more than $6 in some states. Understandably, many Americans are looking for ways to save at the pump. Enter Circle K’s Fuel Day. For one day only, the gas station chain will be giving customers 40 cents off per gallon—but there is a catch. To learn more, keep scrolling.

First, why is gas so expensive?

Over the past couple of months conflicts in the Middle East have caused a blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, which connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and handles about 20 percent of the world’s petroleum. As a result, oil trades across the world have suffered, resulting in an increase in gas prices.

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The United States government is currently working to re-open the Strait of Hormuz, however due to political conflict, it’s hard to know when that could happen.

What to know about Circle K’s Fuel Day

Every year, Circle K picks a day to give their Inner Circle members a discount on gas. This year, it’s Thursday, August 13. To cash in on the savings, you either need to be or become an Inner Circle member. If you’re already enrolled, the discount is automatically applied at the pump after you enter your phone number. If you aren’t a member, no worries! You can enroll in the program by texting JOIN to 25050, downloading the Circle K app and creating an account or entering your mobile number at the pump or checkout, which will give you an enrollment link. From there, the rewards will roll in, including the 40 cents off per gallon on Fuel Day, this Thursday, August 13.

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“It’s been a summer full of energy for our customers as we celebrate America’s 250th,” Louise Warner, executive vice president, North America operations, said in a statement. “We’re carrying that same energy into back-to-school, staying focused on what we do best: delivering real value and helping ease everyday costs for the communities we serve.”

Other ways to save on gas

Don’t live near a Circle K or want to save on gas even after fuel day? Then be sure to download the free GasBuddy app. Experts say it’s one of the easiest ways to save on gas. The app allows you to track what a gallon costs at every station near you, which can help you make sure you’re getting the cheapest gas possible.

Another great way to save is by checking out your local grocery and big-box stores. Often, stores like Costco, Kroger, Sam’s Club, BJ’s, Safeway and more have their own gas stations and they give discounts to their customers; Amazon does this as well at a select number of stations. To find out which ones, click here.

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“This is one of the most overlooked strategies to save,” deal-hunting pro Kyle James, founder of Rather-Be-Shopping.com told Woman’s World earlier this year. “I’ve seen people get 50 cents to $1 off per gallon.”

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Your Social Security Check Could Grow in 2027—Here's the Estimate

Carissa Mosness — Tue, 28 Jul 2026 17:57:22 +0000

For some people, the end of summer means back-to-school shopping and pumpkin spice everything. For seniors on Social Security, it means something else entirely: waiting to find out how much bigger their monthly checks will get next year. So when will that announcement actually happen, and how much of an increase can beneficiaries expect? Here’s everything we know so far.

What we know about the 2027 COLA

In 1975, the SSA created the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) to help them keep up with inflation. Over the years, the increase has varied from zero (in 2010, 2011 and 2016) to 14.3 percent in 1980. In 2026, the COLA was 2.8 percent, which added about $56 to Americans’ monthly checks. In 2027, however, that amount could be higher, since the cost of living is expected to be high, due to President Donald Trump’s tariffs, ever-increasing inflation rates and the war in Iran, which is causing energy goods like gas to rise in cost at an aggressive rate.

Mary Johnson, an independent Social Security and Medicare analyst, told CNBC she estimates the 2027 COLA might be around 3.7 percent. The Senior Citizens League, a nonpartisan senior group, has a similar projection, revealing just a few weeks ago that they think the 2027 COLA will be 3.8 percent. They also shared that if their estimated increase is correct, seniors’ benefits could rise an average of $73.62 a month. Even with that increase, experts are concerned it won’t be enough for seniors.

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“We’re seeing inflation on the rise when more than half of seniors already can’t afford basic living standards,” Senior Citizens League executive director Shannon Benton told Fox Business. “We’re talking about food, a roof over their head and transportation. Many seniors already have to skip doctor’s appointments due to costs, which costs all of us more in the long run when we swap preventative care for emergency care.”

When will the 2027 COLA be announced?

Every year the COLA is announced by the SSA Commissioner (a position currently held by Frank J. Bisignano) in October. The 2026 COLA was announced on October 24, 2025, after being delayed from October 15, due to a federal government shutdown.

“Social Security is a promise kept, and the annual cost-of-living adjustment is one way we are working to make sure benefits reflect today’s economic realities and continue to provide a foundation of security,” Social Security Administration Commissioner Frank J. Bisignano said in a statement at the time. “The cost-of-living adjustment is a vital part of how Social Security delivers on its mission.”

As for when to expect the 2027 COLA announcement, the Senior Citizens League has a countdown showing it could happen in 78 days—which would be Wednesday, October 15, 2026. However, this is just an estimate since the SSA hasn’t confirmed the official date yet.

Frank Bisignano in April 2026
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Experts are urging the SSA to announce the increase sooner rather than later to give seniors time to prepare and plan their budgets accordingly.

“Family budgets have been under increasing pressure because of rising prices,” Rich Johnson, vice president for financial security at the AARP Public Policy Institute said in a statement. “The sooner that we can give them reliable information as to how much their benefits might [increase next year], the sooner they can start planning.”

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New Congress Social Security Bill Aims to Stop a 22% Benefit Cut

Carissa Mosness — Mon, 27 Jul 2026 16:44:59 +0000

Lawmakers on Capitol Hill are working on passing a new bipartisan bill, the Protecting Retirement Opportunities and Maintaining Income Security for Everyone (PROMISE) Act, which would help extend Social Security’s funding past 2032. The issue? Experts are warning that passing a bill this early could end up harming the program instead of helping it. Keep scrolling for all the details.

What to know about the PROMISE Act

Earlier this month, Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy, MD, and Illinois Senator Dick Durbin introduced the PROMISE Act to the Senate floor. The bill was later cosponsored by North Carolina Senator Thom Tillis, Virginia Senator Tim Kaine, Texas Senator John Cornyn, Maine Senator Angus King, Delaware Senator Chris Coons and Oklahoma Senator Alan Armstrong, making it one of the largest pieces of bipartisan legislation introduced this year.

The bill proposes giving the Social Security Advisory Board (SSAB) a new task list, which would help make sure Congress funds the Social Security trust funds are funded for at least the next 50 years. Right now, the program’s trust funds are on track to run low by 2032, mainly because of demographic shifts, including lower birth rates and slower tax revenue growth. If nothing changes, anyone claiming benefits in or after 2032 could see their monthly checks cut by about 22 percent. The PROMISE Act aims to prevent that cut, so future retirees can count on receiving their full benefits.

Senator Tim Kaine in 2026
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“For nearly a century, Social Security has been a lifeline that allows Americans to retire with dignity. Congress should not wait around until the last minute to shore up this critical program and prevent broad-based benefit cuts upon Trust Fund depletion,” Senator Kaine said in a statement. “That’s why I’m joining a bipartisan group of my colleagues in introducing legislation that will encourage Congress to roll up its sleeves and find a path forward to ensure current and future generations of retirees and their families are able to receive the benefits they have earned and which they are owed.”

Will the PROMISE Act get passed?

As it stands, the PROMISE Act is being debated by the Senate. If it gets approved there, it will then be sent to the House of Representatives. If they pass it, it will be sent to President Donald Trump’s desk, where he will either sign it into law or veto it altogether. As of publication, there is no word on how the Senate, House and White House are leaning. But even without the PROMISE Act, lawmakers in Washington, D.C. are working toward finding a solution for the depleting Social Security fund.

“Social Security is on an unsustainable path that will lead to dramatic benefit cuts for retirees and growing skepticism among workers paying into a program on the brink of insolvency. With each passing year, the menu of options that preserve benefits and limit tax hikes narrows. The modest reforms Congress contemplated in 2010 would have put Social Security on solid footing for 75 years; today, those same reforms would add less than two years to our current runway,” Senator Tillis said in that same statement. “I won’t pretend there’s consensus on how we solve this, but the math is unforgiving: The longer Congress waits to act, the fewer good options remain, which is why I am proud to support this legislation.”

How experts feel about the PROMISE Act

After the PROMISE Act was introduced earlier this month, AARP’s chief advocacy and engagement officer Nancy LeaMond wrote a letter to Senator Durbin and Senator Cassidy, then cc’ed Senator Kaine, Senator Tillis, Senator King, Senator Cornyn, Senator Armstrong and Senator Coons, saying the bill could hurt retirees and Social Security in the long run.

“We agree with you that Congress needs to act to address Social Security’s financial challenges and to strengthen Social Security for generations to come. Congress can, and should, do that without cutting the benefits that Americans have earned and are earning. But how Congress acts matters,” LeaMond wrote on July 21. “We strongly object to fast-tracking Social Security changes through Congress, as your bill would do. Strengthening Social Security should happen through regular order, in full public view, with openness and transparency—rather than through a process that limits the type of amendments and sets arbitrary procedural deadlines to short-circuit the debate. If regular order is the gold standard for routine legislative matters, it certainly should be the standard for something as important as Social Security.”

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As it stands, none of the senators have commented on LeaMond’s letter, nor have they shared any updates on how the bill is faring on the Senate floor..

“For years, we’ve known that Social Security faces serious long-term financial challenges, yet Congress has repeatedly chosen to look the other way,” Senator King said. “This legislation creates a bipartisan process to ensure Congress finally does its job. Social Security is a promise millions of Americans have earned through a lifetime of work—household budgets rely on the timely arrival of these earnings to pay for mortgages, heat, and medications. We have a responsibility to preserve that promise for today’s retirees and for generations to come.”

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Lawmakers Speak Out About SSA's 'Misleading' Email to Seniors

Carissa Mosness — Thu, 23 Jul 2026 17:51:29 +0000

Lawmakers on Capitol Hill are criticizing a recent email sent by Social Security Administration (SSA) Commissioner Frank Bisignano to millions of beneficiaries, arguing it contained misleading claims and blurred the line between official government communication and political messaging. They say the email could undermine trust in the agency and confuse seniors about changes to their benefits.

So what did the email say—and how has Bisignano responded? Here’s what to know.

What to know about Frank Bisignano’s Social Security email

On July 2, Bisignano—who was appointed by President Donald Trump in 2025—sent out an email to a group of seniors on Social Security titled “Making Life More Affordable for America’s Seniors.”

According to multiple news outlets, the purpose of the email was to highlight the SSA’s efforts to improve their customer service and highlight the agency’s customer service efforts and tout tax relief for seniors under President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA).

“Thanks to President Trump, over 35 million American seniors received an average of $7,500 in relief this tax season,” Bisignano wrote in the email, according to CBS News. “Put simply, America’s seniors are winning!”

Why are lawmakers upset?

For those that are unfamiliar, the OBBBA reportedly created a $6,000 tax deduction for seniors, but many Americans reported that they either didn’t get it or didn’t get as much as they were promised. Because of that, lawmakers became furious about the email sent to seniors about how much money they received from the OBBBA because it contained “misleading information.”

“This was an unusual communication that served no legitimate purpose: rather than receiving necessary information about benefits or a critical communication from the SSA, recipients received a partisan, politicized message—containing multiple misleading statements—that heaped praise on President Trump,” Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren, Oregon Senator Ron Wyden, Rhode Island Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, New Mexico Senator Ben Ray Luján and Wisconsin Senator Tammy Baldwin wrote in a joint letter. “[N]ow you are abusing the millions of email addresses that may have been obtained through [enrollment in ‘my Social Security’ accounts] or other methods, bombarding Americans with blatantly partisan emails from SSA—misusing Americans’ personal information and jeopardizing the mission and integrity of SSA.”

“[F]ew presidents have done more than President Trump to damage Social Security—yet in an Orwellian twist, you are misusing official resources to heap praise on him,” concluded the senators. “The decision to send this email raises fresh questions about your judgement and your ability to prioritize SSA beneficiaries.”

Frank Bisignano in June 2026
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After the letter came out, experts began agreeing with the senators. Shannon Benton, the executive director of nonpartisan advocacy group The Senior Citizens League told the outlet that seniors didn’t get “a $7,500 tax refund or $7,500 in direct savings.”

Nancy Altman, president of advocacy group Social Security Works, had similar thoughts, telling the outlet that the letter was “unprecedented.”

“It is a highly inappropriate use of the Social Security email list, which is intended to share important information about benefits and not for political messaging,” she added.

As of publication, Bisignano has not responded to the email controversy. However, the senators gave him until August 11 to provide a response, so that could change in the coming weeks. They also urged the SSA to disclose how many people received the email so they can implement safeguards to prevent similar incidents in the future.

How to protect yourself from false information

Following the email from Bisignano and the letter made by lawmakers, some seniors are wondering what they can do to protect themselves in the future. If you receive an email about your Social Security benefits, verify any claims by checking your my Social Security account or visiting the SSA’s official website. If the message references tax changes or benefit amounts and you’re unsure how they apply to you, consult a trusted tax professional or financial advisor before making financial decisions.

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“Democrats are correct to be suspicious of Bisignano’s claims about ‘improved’ customer Service at SSA in the wake of reckless and unprecedented staffing cuts. The Senators are also right to point out that the commissioner should not be using official SSA emails for the purpose of spreading political propaganda,” Max Richtman, CEO of the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare, told Newsweek. “The SSA is a public trust, but the president and Bisignano have turned what is supposed to be an independent federal agency into an arm of the Trump political operation.”

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Not Everyone Gets a Social Security Check in August—Here's Why

Carissa Mosness — Mon, 20 Jul 2026 21:30:27 +0000

It’s almost August, and while some people are eagerly awaiting back-to-school season, others are counting down the days until their next Social Security check arrives. But when exactly are those payments coming? And how much will the checks be? We share everything you need to know about the August Social Security payment schedule below.

What to know about August Social Security payments

This year, August 1 is a Saturday. That means some of the month’s Social Security payments are going to be moved up, since the Social Security Administration (SSA) won’t send payments out on a weekend or a federal holiday. Instead, they will send them out on the closest business day, meaning that for August, some people will actually get their payments in July. To view when in July, and learn when everyone else will get their payments, look at the breakdown below.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients will get their payments on Friday, July 31.
If you received Social Security before May 1997 or are receiving both Social Security and SSI, you’ll get both payments on Monday, August 3.
If you were born on the 1st through the 10th of the month, your benefits will be sent out on Wednesday, August 12.
If you were born on the 11th through the 20th of the month, your benefits will be sent out on Wednesday, August 19.
If you were born on the 21st through the 31st of the month, your benefits will be sent out on Wednesday, August 26.

How will August Social Security payments be sent out?

All August Social Security checks will be sent out via direct deposit on the dates listed above. That’s because the SSA discontinued paper checks in September 2025, leaving Social Security beneficiaries with two options for payments: direct deposit into a checking or savings account or loaded onto a Direct Express Card, which is basically a prepaid debit card created for federal payments.

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“There are two key reasons for this change: efficiency and fraud prevention,” Kevin Thompson, the CEO of 9i Capital Group, told Newsweek last year. “Digital payments streamline the distribution process, cut down on mailing costs and reduce the potential for delays or errors while by using secure electronic payment methods, the SSA can better ensure that benefits are delivered directly to the intended recipients, reducing the risk of theft or misdirected funds.”

Will the new Social Security Direct Express change affect August payments?

In May of this year, the SSA announced they would be transitioning the Direct Express program from Comerica Bank to Fifth Third Bank. The good news? If you receive your Social Security payments through Direct Express, you don’t need to do anything right now—including for your August payments, which will not be affected. You can continue using your current card as usual. When the time comes for new cards, you’ll receive them along with complete instructions on what to do next

“For recipients, this mostly means more of the same,” Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor for the University of Tennessee at Martin, told Newsweek of the Direct Express change. “Benefits should still arrive electronically on their normal payment date, but it could add value if the new system improves security and customer service.”

How to calculate your August Social Security benefits

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For everyone who’s collected Social Security previously, the amount you receive will stay the same. If this is your first time collecting Social Security, you can calculate your payments by entering your date of birth and your earnings from the current year or the last year you worked into the SSA’s Quick Benefits Calculator. From there it will tell you how much money you will receive each month based on your age. It will also tell you how much money you will get if you claim disability or survivor benefits.

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From Free Cookies To 20% Off Target: Top Holiday Military Discounts!

strotter — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 22:46:29 +0000

Americans are ready to celebrate our country’s independence, and that includes honoring the men and women who have helped make that freedom possible! Major retailers, tourist attractions and restaurants are also offering special deals as a thank you for military service. Whether you’re looking for a fun activity that won’t break the bank or a way to save on a restaurant meal, there’s something for every active duty member and veteran. Find out more below about the best military discounts available for the Fourth of July holiday weekend!

Fun for the whole family

Blue Star Museums

Active-duty military personnel and their families can explore more than 2,000 museums across the country—completely free—through this special program! With art museums, history centers and more on the list, it’s the perfect way to celebrate American culture without spending a fortune.

The program runs from Armed Forces Day on May 16 to Labor Day, so you can add it to your holiday weekend itinerary. Just confirm with your desired destination ahead of time to check for any special hours.

Cincinnati Zoo

Ohio military members can have a wild good time at the Cincinnati Zoo this Independence Day. The zoo offers free admission for all active duty and retired military members on July 4, plus the chance to purchase up to six discounted tickets for immediate family members.

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Lions, tigers and bears…oh my! Through July 3, military members (active and retired) can snag a free Day Pass with proof of service. Just head to the zoo’s main gate on the day of your visit to redeem and purchase up to five additional Day Passes for 50 percent off if you desire.

Gilroy Gardens

Family fun awaits at this California theme park. From July 3 through the 5th, simply show ID at the gate to prove you’re an active-duty member or veteran and you’ll automatically receive free admission. Need extra tickets? You can get $40 General Admission tickets for up to six family members or friends.

Delicious deals to savor

Courtesy of Great American Cookies

Great American Cookies

This cookie chain is spreading a little patriotic spirit in honor of America’s birthday. From July 1 to 4, active-duty military members and veterans can treat themselves to a free Stars & Stripes Sprinkle Cookie. To enjoy, simply provide identification at a participating Great American Cookies location.

Outback Steakhouse

Savor all of your favorites—like the Bloomin’ Onion or Down Under Delmonico Ribeye—at a bargain during the holiday. The steakhouse chain offers a year-round 10 percent military discount (the “Heroes Discount”) to active-duty service members, veterans and their families for both dine-in and takeout orders!

Bonefish Grill

When you order from this popular seafood restaurant, you can redeem a 10 percent Heroes Discount that applies to your order of food and nonalcoholic drinks. As long as you’re an active-duty service member or veteran, you can enjoy the discount year-round—just provide ID to get the discount.

Carrabba’s Italian Grill

Like many other chain restaurants, this Italian eatery allows activity-duty and retired military members to save when they indulge. The Heroes Discount means 10 percent off your restaurant bill all year long, making this the perfect spot to dine for the patriotic occasion.

Dave & Buster’s

If you’re a military member or veteran, you can keep more money in your pocket during your next Dave & Buster’s visit! Take a break from playing your favorite arcade games and head to the restaurant to enjoy a 15 percent discount on food and nonalcoholic beverages. Even better: This deal applies for up to four guests, as well!

Red Lobster

Craving Cheddar Bay Biscuits and fresh seafood? Red Lobster is calling your name! Dine here at a participating location and get a 10 percent discount with proof of service or a valid military ID.

Smart savings on summer essentials

Kevin Carter / Contributor/Getty

Academy Sports + Outdoors

Whether you’re looking for fishing gear, camping equipment or grills, there’s no better time to buy! Now through July 4, active-duty military members and veterans can take advantage of a 10 percent discount off their entire purchase. It’s valid for online and in-store shopping, so you can get the deal even if you can’t get to an Academy Sports + Outdoors location.

Rack Room Shoes

From sneakers to sandals, you can find your perfect footwear for a steal at Rack Room Shoes. The retail chain is giving anyone with a military ID a 20 percent discount off their total purchase for one day only. Head to your local store to shop on July 4 to reap the savings!

Home Depot

Home Depot’s military discount is available year-round, so you can take advantage of it long after the holiday weekend ends. The store provides active-duty service members, veterans and their spouses a 10 percent discount on all purchases. (Note: There is a maximum annual discount of $400.)

You will first need to confirm your status on the verification page, then you’re free to shop with the discount! For in-store purchases, scan the Virtual ID barcode via the app or enter your phone number at checkout. Ordering online? Just log into your verified account to have the discount automatically applied.

Target

Here’s a special offer for active-duty military personnel and veterans: now through July 4, you can enjoy 20 percent off a qualified Target purchase. To access this special deal:

Create or sign in to your Target account.
Join Target Circle for free.
Follow instructions to verify your military status.
Add any dependents to your guest profile if you’d like. (They’ll also be able to use the discount if they’re a Target Circle member.)
If desired, sign up for a Target Circle 360 paid membership using the reduced rate for military members.

The discount will automatically be applied if you shop online, or you can scan your unique Wallet barcode at checkout to get the 20 percent discount.

No matter what you’re planning this Independence Day, these special military discounts make it easy to treat yourself for less!

Trash or Treasure? The Closet Cleanout Items Vintage Experts Are Increasingly Telling People to Sell Now

Ryan Brennan — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 16:45:20 +0000

We have all been there. A drawer will not shut, the closet rod is sagging and a free Saturday vanishes into piles of clothes you forgot you owned. Decluttering feels good, but it also raises a nagging question.

Is any of this actually worth something? The honest answer is yes and no. A handful of items in the average closet cleanout can fetch real money (such as designer clothes), while plenty of others are better off helping someone through a donation bin.

The trick is telling the two apart before you toss anything. So before your next closet cleanout turns into a guessing game, here are clear answers to the questions people ask most about what to sell, what to donate and how to tell the difference.

How do I know if my vintage concert t-shirts are worth money?

Start with age and origin. Band and tour shirts from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s are the ones collectors chase, and an original tour shirt is worth far more than a modern reprint. Look for a specific tour, an album release or a now-defunct venue printed on the shirt, since those details drive demand.

Recent sales show how high prices can climb, with a 1994 Nine Inch Nails Downward Spiral shirt landing around $1,550 and an Enter the Wu-Tang shirt near $2,000.

“Vintage Concert T-shirts and Vintage shirts from your favorite sports teams can fetch quite a price. eBay has a strong collecting community,” Reyne Hirsch of Dallas Auction Gallery told Good Housekeeping.

Are ’80s and ’90s starter jackets and vintage soccer jerseys valuable?

Often, yes. Vintage sports apparel sits at the crossroads of fandom, nostalgia and streetwear. Starter jackets from the late ’80s and ’90s, especially satin styles and pullovers, are among the most recognizable collector pieces around.

Team and player are what move the needle. Bulls, Lakers, Raiders and Yankees pieces tend to sell well, and legends like Michael Jordan or Ken Griffey Jr. add a premium. Vintage soccer jerseys work the same way, where a storied club or a famous number raises the value.

Check the tags for original Starter, Champion, Nike, Russell Athletic or Mitchell & Ness labels before you list.

Is broken or mismatched vintage jewelry worth selling?

Do not write it off. Broken chains, single earrings, bent rings and old charms still hold value because the metal itself can be sold for resale or scrap. The hallmark stamped on the piece is your first clue.

“I can’t tell you how many times we’ve found pieces tossed in a drawer that are stamped ‘925,’ ‘14-karat,’ or ‘18-karat,’” Jennifer Mayrath of Clotheshorse Anonymous told MarthaStewart.com. “Those markings matter. Sterling silver, solid gold, and pieces with genuine stones, especially if they’re signed or have a designer hallmark, can carry significant resale value. Turquoise and Old Pawn are often overlooked, too.”

So before you toss that tangled pile of vintage jewelry, check every clasp and back for a stamp.

What makes vintage costume jewelry collectible?

Costume does not mean cheap. A lot of vintage costume jewelry was beautifully made, collectible and signed by a designer, particularly pieces from the 1920s through the 1950s.

Turn each piece over and look at the clasp, the back of a brooch or the inside of a bracelet for a maker’s mark or signature. Details that collectors love include rhinestones, enamel, bakelite, poured glass, faux pearls, figural brooches and Art Deco shapes.

A signed piece in good condition can be worth far more than its plastic-bin reputation suggests.

Should I hold onto old designer buttons and handbags?

Yes, even if the item itself looks past its prime. Before donating a designer blazer, check the buttons, zippers and clasps, because damaged designer clothing can still sell when the hardware is intact. Chanel buttons are especially prized, since people turn them into earrings, pendants and brooches.

Handbags deserve the same patience. An outdated bag from Saint Laurent, Fendi, Dior, Gucci or Louis Vuitton can swing back into demand the moment its silhouette returns to the runway. Keep the serial numbers, authenticity cards, dust bags and original hardware, since those are what prove a bag is real.

Are vintage wedding dresses worth selling?

They can be, depending on the gown. Vintage wedding dresses earn their value through craftsmanship, fabric, designer label, era and whatever bridal trends happen to be cycling back.

Look for silk, satin, handmade lace, hand embroidery, beading, covered buttons, dramatic trains or sleek ’90s minimalism. Gowns from the 1920s through 1970s appeal to collectors, while ’90s styles attract modern brides.

“The Marilyn Monroe-style wiggle dresses are becoming more popular,” Lily Kaizer, owner of LA-based vintage bridal boutique the Happy Isles, told Vogue. “People are going for the ’70s-style relaxed silhouette, and we’ve had a lot of requests for ’90s minimal styles.”

Even a gown that cannot be worn again has value, since buyers repurpose the lace, fabric, buttons and veils.

What is the easiest way to start selling clothes online after a closet cleanout?

Begin with research, not a listing. Search completed or sold listings for similar items so you can price yours against what people actually paid, not what sellers are hoping for.

Photograph each piece in good light and capture the details that prove value, like tags, hallmarks, serial numbers and any sign of an original tour or designer. Be honest about flaws, since accurate condition notes build trust and cut down on returns.

From there, selling clothes online is mostly about matching the item to the right marketplace, whether that is a general resale app or a platform built for collectors.

When should I sell used clothes instead of donating them?

Use a simple test. If a piece has rarity, a precious material, a recognizable designer or a trend that is coming back around, it is worth the effort to sell. If it has none of those, donating is usually the better move.

Plenty of everyday items fall on the donate side and still do real good. Fast fashion, basic shoes, winter coats, workwear, kids’ clothing and extra cold-weather accessories are often more useful given away than listed.

There is no downside to sorting carefully. Give the test a few minutes, donate what does not pass and let your closet cleanout pay off either way. And if you’re unsure about where to sell designer clothes, you can learn more about that here.