5 Tips to Stay Out of Debt on Black Friday
Your No-Debt Black Friday Survival Guide As a veteran, I often get eye rolls from my kids when I use military analogies to describe events. But as a financial coach, I can’t help but see Black Friday as an epic battle. You’re knee-deep in the trenches of holiday shopping goals and you’re experiencing the rapid…
Read MoreHow Much Should I Save Monthly if I’m in Debt?
Saving money is always a priority, but the amount you save depends on your other goals, such as paying off debt. A rule of thumb is to save at least $1,000 to cover emergency expenses. Consider labeling your emergency account, “Debt-Proof Insurance.” The title is a reminder that the account exists to keep you out…
Read MoreWhat loan options do I have for helping my child afford college?
Starting college is an exciting time for parents and students alike. But this excitement often comes with stress and uncertainty about how to pay for school. You may be wondering what options are available for you and your child. If you want to help your child cover the costs of higher education, you have many…
Read MoreWhat’s the Best Way to Pay Off Debt?
There are a couple of ways to get out of debt and back on track with your finances. Let’s walk through some straightforward steps together! Start with Budgeting Basics To start with, make a budget. Total up all your monthly take home pay. Next, start to subtract all of your expenses. You will want to…
Read MoreAre there debt consolidation companies for poor credit scores?
Submitted by Sara K. A Debt Management Plan (DMP) that is offered by a non-profit credit counseling agency can be an excellent tool for getting out of debt. Anyone can use these plans, whether they have poor credit or great credit. Credit cards, collections, and medical debt are eligible for these programs. How a Debt…
Read MoreCan I trade in my new truck for a cheaper 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 MoreTips for Managing Your Debt in Case of a Recession
It is important to consider any financial goal, including eliminating debt, in the context of your overall financial well-being. What are your priorities? What is your financial picture now and in the future? With a recession comes more uncertainty. What you choose to do will depend on your circumstances. Generally, the foundation for financial health…
Read MoreShould I defer payments on my bills?
The pros and cons of deferring payments during the COVID-19 crisis As you look for help to make ends meet, you may be looking at the increasing amount of creditors offering the ability to delay payments. It’s great companies are taking quick action to help with the financial impact of COVID-19. But proceed with caution…
Read MoreHow the CARES Act Impacts Your Student Loans
Times are uncertain right now. Budgets are tightening and people are losing work. On March 27, 2020 President Trump signed the CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act. Now people are trying to understand how the CARES Act will affect their lives. If you have student loans, you may wonder how the CARES Act…
Read MoreHow to Have Your Student Loans Forgiven
Student loan debt is very common. If you have student loans, your payments may impact how you live your life in significant ways. So as you work to pay off your student loans, it’s important to understand the options that exist for student loan forgiveness. Here are three student loan forgiveness programs you should be…
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