How can I build my skills while I am unemployed?
There are lots of emerging job opportunities that require specific skills. Building those job skills is necessary to fill numerous types of good-paying jobs, especially jobs in the tech industry. But you also need a specific skillset to be an educator, healthcare worker, financial services professional, plumber, or electrician. So, to answer your question, first…
Read MoreWhat should I do to budget if I’m on unemployment?
I’m sorry to hear you are unemployed. I know for many people it has been very difficult to access unemployment benefits since the CARES Act was enacted in March 2020. On top of that, the extra $600 per month payout ended July 31, 2020. So, congratulations on breaking through the red tape. You finally have…
Read MoreI want to buy a house, but my credit isn’t good. What can I do?
I want to buy a house, but I have bad credit. Should I file bankruptcy? What should I do? Submitted by Marcella S. Buying a home is many people’s idea of achieving the American Dream. But the road to homeownership can be stressful, confusing, and overwhelming. When I purchased my first home, I had no…
Read MoreResources for Small Business Owners Impacted by COVID-19
Many small businesses are experiencing economic hardship because of COVID-19. In light of social distancing recommendations and other stay-at-home rules, there has been a dramatic decrease in economic activity. There are two main programs in the CARES Act that support small businesses. These programs are the Paycheck Protection Program or PPP 7(a) Loan Program and…
Read MoreWhy do credit sites recommend I get another credit card?
I’ve worked hard to get my credit score into the excellent range using only one credit card. I pay monthly before the due date. Why do credit sites like Credit Karma and Credit Sesame keep suggesting I get another credit card to improve my score even more? What is the impact on a credit score…
Read MoreCan I get a 30 year mortgage at age 65?
Submitted by Darlene D. For many people, homeownership is an essential part of achieving the American Dream. I applaud you for pursuing your home ownership goals. In my professional opinion, it’s never too late to buy a home as long as you can afford the mortgage. With modern health advances, people live much longer. So…
Read MoreWhat financial conversations should my partner and I have before moving in together or getting married?
My experience talking about finances with my wife Back in the early 90s when I was first seriously dating, the only thing I could think to ask my future wife was, “Do you love me?” At no time during the wooing process did we discuss money or finances at all. We had no money, jobs,…
Read MoreWhat to expect when you apply for unemployment during COVID-19
I’m sorry to hear that you lost your job and now must navigate the challenges of Unemployment Insurance. You may encounter busy phone lines, an inability to speak to a live person, and state unemployment website issues. This will depend on what state you live in and when you filed. Presently over 42 million are…
Read MoreHow soon can you trade in a financed truck or car for a new car?
I have a truck that I just bought for $35,000. It’s now worth about $31,000. Can I trade my truck in for a $20,000 car? What happens with my negative equity on the truck and my sedan that I just paid for with the trade–in value? Submitted by Jae E. It’s common to buy a…
Read MoreSomething I ordered online was sent to the wrong address. What can I do?
I ordered stuff on Amazon and it was sent to a wrong address. I made a dispute with my bank, but they closed the dispute. They want me to pay to have this taken off my credit card statement. But I don’t believe that I owe them. What can I do? Submitted by Richie B.…
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