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Discussing faith, business, personal finance, news (business and financial related), politics, and pretty much everything else.
Friday, September 30, 2011
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Banking News Tonight
Bank of America to Charge $5 to Use Debit Cards at Check-Out
The Huffington Post and other media sources is reporting
Bank of America will charge customers $5 per month to use their debit card starting in early 2012, according to Dow Jones Newswires.
The fee will apply to customers who use their debit card to make any purchases during the month, but won't apply to those who only use it for ATM transactions, according to the report. Debit card use is on the rise, according to Digital Transactions. Signature debit card transactions jumped by almost 10 percent between April 2010 and April 2011, the website reported.
- Huffington Post
American First National Bank, Houston, Texas, Assumes All of the Deposits of First International Bank, Plano, Texas
According to a press release from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp (FDIC),First International Bank, Plano, Texas, was closed today by the Texas Department of Banking, which appointed the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) as receiver. To protect the depositors, the FDIC entered into a purchase and assumption agreement with American First National Bank, Houston, Texas, to assume all of the deposits of First International Bank.
The seven branches of First International Bank will reopen during normal business hours beginning Saturday as branches of American First National Bank. Depositors of First International Bank will automatically become depositors of American First National Bank. Deposits will continue to be insured by the FDIC, so there is no need for customers to change their banking relationship in order to retain their deposit insurance coverage up to applicable limits. Customers of First International Bank should continue to use their existing branch until they receive notice from American First National Bank that it has completed systems changes to allow other American First National Bank branches to process their accounts as well.
This evening and over the weekend, depositors of First International Bank can access their money by writing checks or using ATM or debit cards. Checks drawn on the bank will continue to be processed. Loan customers should continue to make their payments as usual.
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Thursday, September 29, 2011
Small Business Credit Cards And The Businesses That Get Them
by Jason Collazo
If you are one of many Americans who own a small business, a credit card at first can come off as a good idea and a great investment. They have overall higher limits than their personal counterparts because as small business owners, they are providing for a business and thus tend to spend more.
Not only that, but these cards tend to encompass certain incentives meant strictly for the small business owner. These can include functions such as employee cards and regular spending statements, as well. And more akin to personal credit cards, there are old standbys like rewards, balance transfers, introductory rates, etc.
They can also be easy to obtain. Take the year 2009. According to information gathered by the Federal Reserve and presented in the Tulsa World, about 75% of small businesses who filled out credit card applications saw their attempts accepted.
Compare this to the difficulty of a small business to get either a line of credit or a traditional bank loan.
But if you own a small business, you may not necessarily want to lean on a credit card.
It helps to have an excellent credit history for your business as a foundation, just like it would your personal life. But how does a business even get a sense of their whole credit history? It depends on a myriad of factors, such as the personal credit histories of the employees, how long the business has existed (it helps to have been around for the minimum of two years), cash flow, business credit histories and lastly other lines of credit.
With all this taken into consideration, you may want to do an in-depth analysis of where your business stands. If your business practices financial responsibility, i.e. making timely payments and keeping positive cash flow in your system, then applying for a card should be no problem.
Although no business honestly wants to think this way, there’s always that nagging question: what if your business should fail? Unfortunately, it happens, time and time again. And if it should happen to you, what becomes of your card? The applicant then will become personally accountable for all card charges (likely, you).
If the businesses financing becomes problematic, this will reflect upon your account. To avoid this kind of dilemma, you need to have a stable credit history. Check into the terms and conditions of your credit account to see if will be safe, in the case of such an event.
Small businesses cards, on the other hand, have the danger of unsecured loans attached to them. Because this is what they essentially are: unsecured loans. Defaulting or not paying will lead you down the path to write-offs.
Also, the CARD Act of 2009 covers personal cards but not business credit cards. So lots of terms that were outlawed against personal cards, have not been outlawed against business credit cards.
If you are a small business owner, take this all into your careful thought before applying for a credit card for your business.
Yes, you may get what, but then: now what?
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Tuesday, September 27, 2011
The Distribution of Magazine Subscriptions
by Jason Collazo
• Free circulation
• Paid circulation
• Controlled circulation
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So once a magazine is printed, it's got to be distributed to people who subscribe to it, wherever they may be. Distribution is a key part of the publishing business - and critical to disseminating information around the world.
Market demand determines how many copies of each magazine get distributed as well as where they get sent. If the magazine is popular with a niche audience, then it's more likely to be distributed by subscription. If a magazine is of interest to everyone, it will be made available at most retail stores as well as by subscription, for those who prefer to have the whole package and delivered right to them.
In other words, there exists a correlation between distribution and subscriptions. A correlation is a relationship that's not pure coincidence. A change in one variable leads to a change in another; it come down to math. This implies that an increase in demand in the market leads to an increase in the amount of magazine subscriptions and heightens the level of distribution.
Magazine distributions can be done in many ways. They include the mail, the various bookstores, newsstands, other vendors, or even pick-up locations in different areas of cities and towns.
There are several categories of circulation, and each involves a different type of distribution. The three primary categories of circulation are:
• Free circulation
• Paid circulation
• Controlled circulation
Free circulation
Magazines circulated at no charge fall into this category. There is no cover price on the front of the magazine, which is a nice bonus for your wallet. Free magazines are usually supported by advertisers or organizations that want to promote their causes. The issues are often handed out in the street or made available at no charge in racks.
Paid circulation
If readers pay for a magazine, it's counted as paid circulation. If you subscribe to a magazine through a site offering magazine subscription deals, you'll be counted as paid subscriber. Typically, subscribers receive their magazines by mail, though some might pick up their favorite issues at a newsstand.
Controlled circulation
Sometimes, magazines are circulated only to a select group of people. This is called controlled circulation. This model is generally used by publishers who target specific industries, institutions and other insiders. The information in these magazines is targeted only to those who are interested in it.
It depends on what is best for your individual magazine needs, in the end and where you can afford to distribute money to or even the kind of magazine you want.
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Monday, September 26, 2011
Waiting on the Body Shop
by Kevin Surbaugh
I was suppose to get my car back Friday (or today at the latest). Since I hadn't heard anything I called to check on the status. I was told it was headed to cleaning and then it would have to be checked by quality control.Since I have to be at work this afternoon and work late and then early in the morning it looks like I won't get my car back by today as promised.
As I was writing this I finally got the car that my car was ready. I am so glad to finally get my car back.
It is aggravating and the damage waiver is costing me money I wouldn't be spending if I hadn't been hit. But her insurance doesn't think they need to pay for that. I have shelled out $263 in damage waiver fees through Friday. Meaning I will have to pay for Saturday, Sunday and probably today. Money that in part is coming from the rent money and some from the saved money for the down payment on a new house. Then I will have 4 days to get the car inspected, something I had planned to do the week I got hit.
I really shouldn't be out of pocket for anything, it is not my fault that this lady hit my parked car.
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I was suppose to get my car back Friday (or today at the latest). Since I hadn't heard anything I called to check on the status. I was told it was headed to cleaning and then it would have to be checked by quality control.
As I was writing this I finally got the car that my car was ready. I am so glad to finally get my car back.
It is aggravating and the damage waiver is costing me money I wouldn't be spending if I hadn't been hit. But her insurance doesn't think they need to pay for that. I have shelled out $263 in damage waiver fees through Friday. Meaning I will have to pay for Saturday, Sunday and probably today. Money that in part is coming from the rent money and some from the saved money for the down payment on a new house. Then I will have 4 days to get the car inspected, something I had planned to do the week I got hit.
I really shouldn't be out of pocket for anything, it is not my fault that this lady hit my parked car.
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Saturday, September 24, 2011
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YouTubeBe Aware of Nationwide Banking Phishing Scams
by Kevin Surbaugh
A Wells Fargo Bank phishing scam has recently targeted victims nationwide. Consumers have been receiving calls and texts from scammers claiming the bank lost their personal information. Receiving this type of call can be alarming and it is nothing more than a ploy used by identity thieves to steal your personal information!
IMPORTANT: Banks and other financial institutions will never contact you by phone, text (or even email) to confirm personal information.
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Beware! Don’t Be The Next Victim
Banks Nationwide Are Being Hit With Phishing Scams
Banks Nationwide Are Being Hit With Phishing Scams
A Wells Fargo Bank phishing scam has recently targeted victims nationwide. Consumers have been receiving calls and texts from scammers claiming the bank lost their personal information. Receiving this type of call can be alarming and it is nothing more than a ploy used by identity thieves to steal your personal information!
IMPORTANT: Banks and other financial institutions will never contact you by phone, text (or even email) to confirm personal information.
- Use Caution! Avoid becoming a victim and follow these helpful tips.
- Do not share any confidential information through suspicious emails, websites, social media networks, text messages or phone calls.
- Protect your personal and account information, including your online banking username, password, and answers to security questions.
- Never open attachments, click on links, or respond to emails from suspicious or unknown senders.
- Never share your mother’s maiden name, Social Security Number, or Bank Account numbers.
- Do not give out your PIN to anyone.
- Change your username and passwords often.
- Never disclose via text message any personal information.
- To ensure the safety of your personal and account information, download mobile apps from reputable sources only.
- For your security, sign off when you finish using a banking website.
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Reduce Home Mortgage Debts Faster With Better Credit Scores
Guest Post by Ed O'Brien
A home mortgage loan is likely the biggest financial investment a consumer will make in their lifetime, and should really be the only loan you’re willing to go into debt for. It is therefore wise to truly consider how such a huge financial step will impact your current financial situation as well as your future one. Being in debt for the next thirty years is no one’s ideal plan but with a solid credit score as well as a reasonable savings plan set up before obtaining a home loan, you can not only be financially secure, you can also relieve yourself of the mortgage debt in a shorter amount of time.
If you already have a solid credit score to afford lower interest rates, it may be reasonable for the borrower to pay more money towards their monthly house note as long as fees are not part of the equation for early payoff. By eliminating such a big financial obligation, you will also increase your score. This will serve you well in terms of financial security later in life, especially if you plan to stay in your home for years to come.
The best way to ensure you’re eligible for a low-interest rate mortgage is to start early by checking credit reports and scores from the major credit reporting agencies as soon as you know you want to buy a home. If you find your credit score is not up to par (720 or higher should be your target), take the time to improve scores by paying existing bills on time each month and refraining from applying for new lines of credit before the mortgage loan is complete.
Establishing savings goals early can make achieving your down payment goals possible. You can save up smaller increments of cash over a longer period of time in order to achieve your goals. It is a less stressful way to build up a down payment for a home than to have to come up with larger lump sums closer to the mortgage approval time. Savings goals should be constructed realistically and be based on your income and other financial considerations. Some people like setting an amount from each paycheck aside, anywhere between 10 to 30 percent. The more time you plan to save, the more likely you are to achieve your down payment savings goals.
Between the work it takes to improve or repair bad credit and the amount of money you have time to save, there is a lot of work to be done before applying for one of the biggest loans of your lifetime. It is equally important to shop around for a lender that matches your financial needs and understands your financial matters. All of these steps take time to complete correctly but if done, can result in faster elimination of a home loan debt as well as better terms and conditions for the home loan itself.
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A home mortgage loan is likely the biggest financial investment a consumer will make in their lifetime, and should really be the only loan you’re willing to go into debt for. It is therefore wise to truly consider how such a huge financial step will impact your current financial situation as well as your future one. Being in debt for the next thirty years is no one’s ideal plan but with a solid credit score as well as a reasonable savings plan set up before obtaining a home loan, you can not only be financially secure, you can also relieve yourself of the mortgage debt in a shorter amount of time.
How Credit Affects Mortgages
A mortgage lender will use a consumer credit score to first determine the eligibility of the loan applicant and then to establish the interest rate the applicant will pay over the life of the loan. With a high credit score, a mortgage loan can be granted at relatively low interest terms. A half of percent can make a difference of tens of thousands over the course of the loan. With a low credit score, borrowers will be subjected to unfavorable interest rates that may become a burden down the road.If you already have a solid credit score to afford lower interest rates, it may be reasonable for the borrower to pay more money towards their monthly house note as long as fees are not part of the equation for early payoff. By eliminating such a big financial obligation, you will also increase your score. This will serve you well in terms of financial security later in life, especially if you plan to stay in your home for years to come.
The best way to ensure you’re eligible for a low-interest rate mortgage is to start early by checking credit reports and scores from the major credit reporting agencies as soon as you know you want to buy a home. If you find your credit score is not up to par (720 or higher should be your target), take the time to improve scores by paying existing bills on time each month and refraining from applying for new lines of credit before the mortgage loan is complete.
Why Savings Matters
Another way you can reduce the debts of a home mortgage while you build your score is to stash away money to be used towards a down payment on the home you choose to purchase. In most cases, lenders want to see at least 20% of the home price put down by the borrower before the loan will be approved at a good interest rate. There are programs such as FHA loans that will allow for smaller down payments but the reality is that the more money you can put down up front, the less money you’ll have to finance. Smaller loan amounts mean you can likely pay off the loan in a faster period of time. Establishing savings goals early can make achieving your down payment goals possible. You can save up smaller increments of cash over a longer period of time in order to achieve your goals. It is a less stressful way to build up a down payment for a home than to have to come up with larger lump sums closer to the mortgage approval time. Savings goals should be constructed realistically and be based on your income and other financial considerations. Some people like setting an amount from each paycheck aside, anywhere between 10 to 30 percent. The more time you plan to save, the more likely you are to achieve your down payment savings goals.
Between the work it takes to improve or repair bad credit and the amount of money you have time to save, there is a lot of work to be done before applying for one of the biggest loans of your lifetime. It is equally important to shop around for a lender that matches your financial needs and understands your financial matters. All of these steps take time to complete correctly but if done, can result in faster elimination of a home loan debt as well as better terms and conditions for the home loan itself.
Ed O’Brien is a seasoned writer in personal finance, specializing in credit repair. You can find more of his articles located at CreditRepair.org.
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Thursday, September 22, 2011
My Car is in the Body Shop
by Kevin Surbaugh
(pics below) It has been a though week/week and a half. A week ago Tuesday while I was at work someone ran into my car. According to the witnesses and what I could see with my eyes (from the cars position) she hit my car so hard that she moved it (the back wheels were now in the parking stall behind it). I fought almost all of last week to get her insurance to pay. Finally late on Friday they admitted responsibility. Then this past Monday their body shop told me the estimate was $1600 and that was just from walking around the car. When they finally got it tore apart they found more damage and said it would be $2481. I hate to say this, but even though the insurance is paying I want a detailed list of the repairs that they did to my car.
I love the feel of the rental car (a red Chevy Aveo) but I will be so glad to get my car back. The body shop says by the end of this week or at the latest early next.
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(pics below) It has been a though week/week and a half. A week ago Tuesday while I was at work someone ran into my car. According to the witnesses and what I could see with my eyes (from the cars position) she hit my car so hard that she moved it (the back wheels were now in the parking stall behind it). I fought almost all of last week to get her insurance to pay. Finally late on Friday they admitted responsibility. Then this past Monday their body shop told me the estimate was $1600 and that was just from walking around the car. When they finally got it tore apart they found more damage and said it would be $2481. I hate to say this, but even though the insurance is paying I want a detailed list of the repairs that they did to my car.
I love the feel of the rental car (a red Chevy Aveo) but I will be so glad to get my car back. The body shop says by the end of this week or at the latest early next.
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| Here you can see my car is pretty dented from her hitting my car. |
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| here you see the light is off kilter, the grill is messed up and some other damage not so noticeable in the first picture. |
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| and this is her car - hardly a scratch on it. |
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Wednesday, September 21, 2011
New Rick Perry Ad Slams Obama as 'President Zero'
from NewsMax Rick Perry has a new ad out on the internet. Below is a brief clip of the story from NewsMax . Below is that is the video of the ad from YouTube. Check them out the share with me what you think.
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Presidential hopeful Rick Perry hits hard at President Barack Obama in a powerful new ad that blames him for the nation’s economic decline and portrays the Texas governor as the nation’s rescuer who will create new jobs and put the country back on sound financial footing. The online, 30-second spot tags Obama with the label “President Zero” as images of shuttered homes and empty businesses flash rapidly on the screen. Obama can be heard in an old speech proclaiming, “We are headed in the right direction.” Fade to black and a second later, the faint sound of galloping hooves can be heard as the image of horses and an American flag appear on the screen. Read more on NewsMax: New Rick Perry Ad Slams Obama as 'President Zero' By Greg MdDonald
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Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Is Netflix Still a Frugal Option
by Kevin Surbaugh
Recently Netflix raised their rates which has angered a lot of their loyal customers. Many of whom have cancelled the service. I for one have not, although I am not to pleased that I don't have unlimited DVD's and streaming for about $10. Instead I now have unlimited streaming only for about $8.
"We lacked respect and humility in the way we announced the separation of DVD and streaming, and the price changes. That was certainly not our intent, and I offer my sincere apology," he wrote in his email to customers.
However, Hastings also announced that the strategy would continue unchanged. The DVD business will be renamed: Qwikster. Netflix and Qwikster sites aren't integrated, so if you can't find a movie to watch on streaming you have to search all over again for the DVD. If you rate a DVD, the rating will register on Qwikster, but not Netflix. And vice versa.
In his email he wrote it this way, Qwikster will be the same website and DVD service that everyone is used to. It is just a new name, and DVD members will go to qwikster.com to access their DVD queues and choose movies. One improvement we will make at launch is to add a video games upgrade option, similar to our upgrade option for Blu-ray, for those who want to rent Wii, PS3 and Xbox 360 games. Members have been asking for video games for many years, but now that DVD by mail has its own team, we are finally getting it done. Other improvements will follow. A negative of the renaming and separation is that the Qwikster.com and Netflix.com websites will not be integrated.
While it does succeed in letting the investors know that Netflix is determined to make streaming its core business, the consequences of confusing and alienating customers may be high. What made Netflix feel attractive was price and choice - but also the bundle. If felt like a bargain. Now I am not so sure that it is really a bargain anymore. I have considered cancelling the service altogether for better picture quality on cable by upgrading that service. The problem is I would get to chose the movies I want to watch.
What do you think. Share your comments and/or discuss this topic on the forum.
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Recently Netflix raised their rates which has angered a lot of their loyal customers. Many of whom have cancelled the service. I for one have not, although I am not to pleased that I don't have unlimited DVD's and streaming for about $10. Instead I now have unlimited streaming only for about $8.
What previously cost $9.99 (for most new users this was presented as $7.99 for streaming plus $2 for the DVD option) now cost $16. Compared to physically renting discs from Blockbuster this is still a bargain, and Netflix's catalog is still far superior to the chain-store. but the size of the price hike stunned customers. Netflix's growth has flattened, and the company admitted last week that it was revising subscriber numbers downwards. Shares have fallen 45 per cent.
But it's the breaking of the bundle that is hard to fathom. Netflix not only said it would be presenting its customers with two plans, it would separate the two businesses. This weekend CEO Reed Hastings issued a grovelling apology.
- The Register
"We lacked respect and humility in the way we announced the separation of DVD and streaming, and the price changes. That was certainly not our intent, and I offer my sincere apology," he wrote in his email to customers.
However, Hastings also announced that the strategy would continue unchanged. The DVD business will be renamed: Qwikster. Netflix and Qwikster sites aren't integrated, so if you can't find a movie to watch on streaming you have to search all over again for the DVD. If you rate a DVD, the rating will register on Qwikster, but not Netflix. And vice versa.
In his email he wrote it this way, Qwikster will be the same website and DVD service that everyone is used to. It is just a new name, and DVD members will go to qwikster.com to access their DVD queues and choose movies. One improvement we will make at launch is to add a video games upgrade option, similar to our upgrade option for Blu-ray, for those who want to rent Wii, PS3 and Xbox 360 games. Members have been asking for video games for many years, but now that DVD by mail has its own team, we are finally getting it done. Other improvements will follow. A negative of the renaming and separation is that the Qwikster.com and Netflix.com websites will not be integrated.
While it does succeed in letting the investors know that Netflix is determined to make streaming its core business, the consequences of confusing and alienating customers may be high. What made Netflix feel attractive was price and choice - but also the bundle. If felt like a bargain. Now I am not so sure that it is really a bargain anymore. I have considered cancelling the service altogether for better picture quality on cable by upgrading that service. The problem is I would get to chose the movies I want to watch.
What do you think. Share your comments and/or discuss this topic on the forum.
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Monday, September 19, 2011
Videos: A Wisdom Steps Moment
A Wisdom Steps Moment with Kevin (Prince of Thrift) Surbaugh
and get ready to laugh with the Outtakes:
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and get ready to laugh with the Outtakes:
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go ahead share your thoughts with me now, my ears are open. I'm always eager to hear what you think.
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Saturday, September 17, 2011
Thank You Forex Binary Options
We would like to Thank Forex Binary Options for becoming a sponsor of this blog. Their trading system focuses on the Euro session and then focused on the NY session. Team up with some partners and trade both sessions and put your self in position for some serious potential mind blowing trading success. Check out their Forex Binary Options Strategy today.
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go ahead share your thoughts with me now, my ears are open. I'm always eager to hear what you think.
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Thursday, September 15, 2011
Reminder Free Prostate Screenings
September is National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. For Men of 40 (like me) two free tests could be a life saving experience. That is why if you live in the Austin, TX area you should check out these FREE Prostate Cancer Screenings. Which include both the PSA blood test and rectal exam. Appointments are appreciated but walk-ins are welcome.
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September 10, 2011 St. David's North Austin Medical Center 12221 N. Mopac Expressway - September 17, 2011 St. David's Round Rock Medical Center 2400 Round Rock Ave.
- September 17, 2011 St. David's South Austin Medical Center 901 W. Ben White Blvd.
- September 24, 2011 St. David's Medical Center 919 E. 32nd Street
- September 24, 2011 St. David's Georgetown Hospital 2000 Scenic Drive
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Welcome Agent Gear
I would like to thank a new sponsor of this blog. Agent Gear USA a website dedicated to provide you your complete security equipment. Whether you are a bail bondsman who needs equipment for your agents to track down those who have jumped bail or you are a bodyguard in need of equipment to help you perform your job this site has what you need. From shirts to surveillance equipment check out Agent Gear USA today.
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My name is Kevin, and that's what I think. What do you think? Agree? Disagree?
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My name is Kevin, and that's what I think. What do you think? Agree? Disagree?
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Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Weed Through Credit Card Introductory Offers
by Jason Collazo
An important thing to keep in mind when you are going through your respective credit card applications these coming months, truly.
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When establishing a new credit card, don’t be blinded by introductory offers and extra rewards that deter you from the main goal of having a credit card, which is to borrow and pay money back in a timely fashion, so you can afford the fabled American dream.
Cash back credit cards that promise hundreds of frequent flyer miles and sign-up cash bonuses may suit your temporary needs, but in the long run, a card like that could leave you coming up short in the credit card world.
“Introductory offers are a dime a dozen. Don’t jump at the first one you see, because chances are that there is a better offer around the corner,” said a representative at Credit-Land.com.
In fact, signing up for many of these promotional cards and offers can have a negative affect on your credit score, especially if the new accounts are opened within a short amount of time. This is because credit card reporting bureaus check the ratio of credit you have used compared to your available credit. If there is a sharp increase in available credit, the credit reporting will become suspicious, and take it out on your credit score.
So it’s important to apply for credit cards that will progress your financial situation in the right direction.
If you have a large family, the American Express Blue Cash Preferred credit card may be a good fit. It’s good for a larger family because the card gives one of the highest cash-back rates in the credit card industry. With this card you can get up to six percent cash-back at supermarkets, three percent cash-back at department stores and gas stations, and one percent cash back on every other purchase made with the card.
Rewards could add up quickly if shopping for more than one in an economy experiencing rising food and gas prices. The card also offers a $100 sign-on bonus for cardholders new to American Express who spend over $500 in the first 90 days the card is issued.
One downside of the card is that it comes with an annual fee of $75. If this is too expensive, ask about the American Express Blue Cash Everyday card, which offers reduced cash-back benefits, but a non-existent annual fee. The Blue Cash Everyday card gives consumers’ three percent cash back on supermarket purchases, two percent cash back on department store and gas station purchases, and one percent cash back on everything else.
Decide which version of the card works best for you. Don’t disregard the annual fee, as it is possible that you could end up saving more money in the long run, in spite of the fee. To illustrate, if your family is on a $2,000 a month budget, you would earn back your annual fee in a little over a month. A family with a budget of this size could save over $1,200 a year on groceries; with the no fee card savings would only be about $620.
An important thing to keep in mind when you are going through your respective credit card applications these coming months, truly.
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Monday, September 12, 2011
The U.S. Economy According to Monopoly
I recently came across the youTube video below regarding the economy as told through Monopoly. Take a look.
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Sunday, September 11, 2011
Announcing a New Feature to the Site
I would like to formally thank Amy for suggesting a new feature that we added this past week to the blog and website. It is hopped that the forum will encourage more reader participation and more discussion of topics that interest the readers. If you have not seen this new feature, check it out by clicking on the forum tab above or clicking here.
Currently there are four users that have registered and have posted or commented on 4 topics for a total of 6 posts at the time I wrote this post. I am expecting to see that number increase of course and expect to start to see more topics that are raised by other users.
Categories include:
Financial
Faith
Investing
Politics
2012 Republican Presidential Primary
General Board
The forum is designed to be a clean and family forum, and we are trusting the users to keep it that way. We do not want to ban anyone, but if we are forced to we will. So what do you think of the new forum? Have you checked it out yet?
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go ahead share your thoughts with me now, my ears are open. I'm always eager to hear what you think.
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Currently there are four users that have registered and have posted or commented on 4 topics for a total of 6 posts at the time I wrote this post. I am expecting to see that number increase of course and expect to start to see more topics that are raised by other users.
Categories include:
The forum is designed to be a clean and family forum, and we are trusting the users to keep it that way. We do not want to ban anyone, but if we are forced to we will. So what do you think of the new forum? Have you checked it out yet?
---
go ahead share your thoughts with me now, my ears are open. I'm always eager to hear what you think.
follow me on Twitter and facebook
Friday, September 9, 2011
Wildfires in Texas
I have fielded phone calls (mainly from family) along with texts and emails from friends and readers of this blog asking if I am okay. If I am avoiding the wildfires here in the Austin area.
The conversation usually goes something like:
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go ahead share your thoughts with me now, my ears are open. I'm always eager to hear what you think.
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The conversation usually goes something like:
Friend: Hope you are not dodging fire.
Me: Just dodging them to go to work. Fire on both sides of the little town I work in.
Friend: Glad you are not in harms way. Litsen to the news and it sounds like the whole state is burning up.
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go ahead share your thoughts with me now, my ears are open. I'm always eager to hear what you think.
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How To Handle Debt Following A Lay-Off
by Jason Collazo
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You’ve had good credit for the last several years. You could charge anything with a head full of confidence. You never missed a payment and never were subject to a late penalty.
Now, you’ve been laid off or you have to deal with a substantial pay cut. The debt is still there, only before it was manageable. Now, it’s just unbearable.
We all don’t start out with horrible credit; life throws its curveballs and we are subject to its mercy. Watching your spotless credit morph into either mediocre or bad credit can be heart-wrenching. But fortunately for you, it doesn’t have to be that serious. There are ways to manage a shift in finances or a large upcoming credit card bill. Don’t be scared, look the debt straight in the eye, and follow a few of these guidelines.
Know What You Owe. You can’t play the game if you don’t know where you stand. Take some time out of your day and actually look at your credit card statements and how much money it will take to clear 10% above the minimum balance. Also, take note of the interest rate your paying and if any other unauthorized or miscellaneous fees pop up.
“You may find out that you owe less than you thought, or you may find out that owe more than you’re originally thought. Either way, it’s best to know your situation so you can proceed with caution,” said an analyst from Credit-Land.com, a leading credit card research web site.
Call a Time-Out On Your Credit Cards. If you can’t afford to pay the bill, stop using them. Don’t lead yourself deeper into debt by continuing to use your credit card for payments that you can’t cover. You may have grown accustomed to using your gas card, but it’s smarter to not dig yourself into a financial hole, but rather to make good money decisions. A good money decision would be to use cash and debit until you find another job. Credit cards should be used in case of an emergency.
When you’re unemployed everything can seem like an emergency, but it’s important to differentiate what really constitutes an emergency, i.e. a nice dinner for two vs. a child in the hospital. Also, make sure to keep in contact with your credit card company. They have millions of clients, all going through the same thing; if you call and speak to them they might be able to offer you a break. "Don’t just pay, whether it's credit cards or your mortgage lender or the bank that has your car loan," the Credit-Land representative said.
"Establish a relationship, and it will help you and your debt.”
Get Creative About Making Money. With garage sales, the websites eBay and Craigslist, you can sell your trash and get a few pieces of treasure in return. Also, it may be in your best interest to get another job, restaurants are a good place to start if you are strapped for cash. Nightly tips can help keep the creditors from breathing down your neck. If working at a restaurant isn’t for you, maybe turn your hobby into an income. If you’re a musician, solicit clubs that pay for entertainment, if you like to bake, host a community bake sale. The possibilities are endless.
Getting laid-off is a real possibility in our economy. If you are subject to a lay-off, don’t neglect your debt. Analyze your situation and make a conscious effort to pay it off. It can be done!
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go ahead share your thoughts with me now, my ears are open. I'm always eager to hear what you think.
follow me on Twitter and facebook
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