Credit Card Debt Lessons Learned
June 17, 2013
Considering the debt I am slowly paying off, I am probably the last person that should be giving advice on how to spend money. But, since approximately 60% of Americans are in debt, I’m definitely not alone. Hopefully what I’ve learned may help you before you find yourself digging out of a financial hole one […]
The Cost of Raising a Child
March 5, 2008
I believe I heard somewhere that the average cost of raising a child is approximately $200,000. Personally, I am not sure how anyone can come up with an amount since everyone’s situation is different. Do the people calculating cost include a portion of the rent or mortgage payment? Is college a consideration, or is the […]
How I Make Tough Money Decisions
March 3, 2008
As a single mother of two growing children, I have a tight budget, even with child support payments. Just when I think I am getting ahead, somebody needs a new pair of glasses or a dental visit. Forget that my youngest is having growing spurts and needs a new wardrobe two or three times a […]
Did You Know Your Credit History Can Affect Your Insurance Rates!
February 8, 2008
Last week, I got a surprise bill in the mail. Based on my credit score, my auto insurance increased by 40%! Ouch!!! What is going on? I pay all of my bills on time, and I usually pay extra on my credit cards. Recently, my credit rating plummeted. What did I do wrong? First, I […]
Managing a Health Savings Account
February 6, 2008
Like all issues dealing with the government and tax free saving plans, the whole idea of a Health Savings Plan can be totally confusing. Do you qualify? What are to contribution limits? Can the money be invested? What happens if I draw it out for something other than health care? Do you need a health […]
Is a Health Savings Account Right For You?
February 5, 2008
The cost of health care, like everything else, is on the rise. However, if you have to go to the doctor, the emergency room, or even stay overnight, you can be in the poorhouse pretty quick, even if you have insurance. If you are not insured, you may have to sell your soul or your […]
Term Life Insurance Can be a Life Saver
February 1, 2008
Although no one really likes to talk about it, every day is a gift and we are not guaranteed another. An accident or sudden illness, and our family is left behind to take care of funeral and burial expenses, not to mention the potential financial struggle for years to come. If the unexpected happens, that […]
How to Get Insurance for the Self-Employed
January 31, 2008
Unless you work for a company that has a group insurance plan, health care insurance can be astronomical. In fact, more and more people do not have insurance at all because smaller businesses cannot afford the benefit, and getting insurance on your own becomes a choice between keeping a roof overhead or having a health […]
What is Earned Income Credit?
January 29, 2008
A couple of years ago, I did my taxes and mailed it to the IRS. Fortunately, I was going to get a refund. Any amount is better than having to send Uncle Sam an additional check. However, when the check came in the mail, I was shocked to discover the refund was even more than […]
Tips for Choosing an Accountant or Tax Preparer
January 26, 2008
For my personal needs, tax preparation software works fine. I answer the questions; plug in some numbers; and presto, I send my taxes off into cyberspace. But, when tax issues are complicated, you might want to seek the aid of a professional. Here are some tips that have been shared with me over the years: […]
