Archive for the ‘Loans’ Category

Should You Lend Money to Your In-Laws?

Posted May 21, 2009 by Bernz

Money is a sensitive issue even among family and friends. Money has ruined relationships between spouses, siblings, parents and children, and between friends. But money issues between in-laws are particularly sensitive. If this is the case for you, what can you do? Should you let your in-laws borrow money from you during difficult times? And if you decide to lend them money, can you expect it back? There are a lot of issues to consider before letting anyone borrow from you.

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Even the most credit-worthy individuals can become unreliable when they borrow from family members. They might reason out that the money is between families anyway. Even with the best intentions, it is almost impossible to treat the transaction in a business-like manner when dealing with the in-laws. However, before you think that lending money to in-laws is a terrible idea, there are some points you can keep in mind. This will enable you to get repayment in an easy, efficient, and friendly manner. (more…)

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Dealing With Collection Agencies

Posted April 3, 2009 by Bernz

No one likes to get a call from a collection agency. It’s their job to get you to pay back money you owe to a creditor at a time when you may not have the money to do so. But ignoring calls from a collection agency is never in your best interests. They have a legal right to collect the debt on behalf of their clients and not complying can be used against you in any future legal proceeding.
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However, you do have rights when it comes to dealing with debt collectors. Under the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), collection agencies cannot legally do the following:

• Call you at unreasonable times (before 8 am or after 9 pm)
• Pretend to be someone other than a debt collector
• Use abusive language or threaten you with legal action
• Add on additional charges to the debt other than interest stated in the original contract
• Call your workplace if your employer forbids it
• Discuss your debt with third parties who are not directly connected as co-debtors

If any of these practices are happening, you can demand in writing that the collector stop contacting you except to let you know that collection efforts have ceased or that the case is going to trial. Remember, however, that not hearing from a collection agency doesn’t mean that you don’t still owe the debt. You can also file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission. (more…)

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Posted in Financial Education, Loans, Misc | 1 Comment »

Financial Literacy- Does It Still Work?

Posted March 30, 2009 by Bernz

Financial literacy means being savvy with your cash flows and understanding your financial transactions in order to make better decisions that will protect and increase your wealth. Many feel that financial literacy is no longer useful or relevant in the face of our current economic meltdown. They feel that, no matter what consumers know or do, they will be hurt in this recession.

financialiqHowever, financial literacy is more important than ever. Understanding your financial position and how to navigate through tough economic times will give you a leg up in ensuring your financial security.

The people who will survive and thrive in today’s economy are those who have a handle on their personal finances. They know what they own and what they owe and they know where the cash is coming from and going. Every dollar that comes in has a name- meaning they know exactly where it is going.

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Posted in 401k, Debt, Estate Planning, Financial Education, Financial Goals, IRA, Index Funds, Investing Basics, Investing Strategies, Investing in Real Estate, Life Insurance, Loans, Mutual Funds, Retirement Planning, Roth IRA, Saving Money, Saving for College, Simple IRA, Stock Market Investing, Tax Reduction, Traditional IRA, Wealth Building | No Comments »

Is Now a Good Time to Start a Small Business?

Posted March 18, 2009 by Bernz

Have you ever had a dream of owning your own business and not having to work for a boss anymore? That is the dream of many employees who wish to have more control over their lives and their finances. With the unprecedented current level of employee layoffs, more people than ever are considering following that dream rather than trying to apply for a new job. Is now really the best time to do that?

sbaPerhaps it’s time for a reality check. Starting a business is often considered to be one method of building wealth. The fact is, however, that 80% of small businesses fail in the first five years, and almost 80% of the ones that survive fail within ten years. Those that make it through the first decade have a solid financial and entrepreneurial foundation that is strong enough to see the business through the tough times. But what if you’re trying to start a business during tough times? It is possible and there is help available.

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Posted in Career, Financial Goals, Investing Basics, Investing Strategies, Loans, Misc, Retirement Planning, Wealth Building | No Comments »

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