Life of a Dollar (continued - p3 of 3)

Reduce taxes with non-taxable income, credits, deductions and exemptions.

Avoid interest charges and associated fees by avoiding direct, and indirect loans (including government securities and credit cards whenever possible).

Set aside at least 10% of all income for deductible donations, business, retirement and medical savings (each). Avoid so-called "qualified medical savings accounts", as well as IRAs, Roth IRAs, 401Ks and other structured retirement plans however, as such accounts and plans are usually heavily regulated, they are funded with fiat money, and savings are eroded over time by inflation. The first $4000 contributed to an IRA is deductible, although withdrawals are taxed as income. Withdrawals from Roth IRAs are not taxed as income, but contributions are not deductible. In addition, nearly if not all structured retirement plans are subject to capital gains taxes, and there are penalties for early withdrawal prior to age 59 1/2.

Reduce wealth erosion due to inflation by converting cash savings (such as that for business, retirement and medical expenses) into capital assets such as gold and/or other precious metals. Gold and other capital assets retain value because unlike fiat money, their value is not negatively affected by inflation and other money debasement schemes. The value of gold and other precious metals is actually increased by inflation (in comparison to the value of a dollar). Gold and precious metals can also be withdrawn or exchanged from precious metal backed accounts (as precious metals or the chosen currency) any time for any reason, income tax and penalty free.

Reduce living expenses and the direct effects of market manipulations with a sustainable, economical, self-sufficient lifestyle.