This is a question that came in from one of my readers asking for advice on how to address money concerns with her husband as times are tough. Communicating about money at the best of times is not always easy. Read on to learn some tips for effective money communication…

Q. I listened to your radio show last weekend. My husband and I recently refinanced our home to consolidate several credit cards that we had allowed to run up after he had to take a pay cut at his job. We have always had difficulty communicating about money, and it has reached a point where he has completely shut off and all we do is argue if either of us brings up the subject. I am concerned because we have started to use the cards again, for everything from gas to groceries to department stores - and I am fearful that we are going down the path to destruction we just emerged from a few months ago. I truly believe our lack of communication is the root of the problem
…continue reading the article titled Communicating about MONEY to avoid marital woes!

Often, it’s hard to see the forest through the trees when we don’t know what path to take.
Whatever your situation, don’t dispair as there is a solution for you. What you need to do is be wiling to take the time to learn about what debt relief options you have available and from there, make an educated decision about which one best fits your needs.

Here are 10 Indications that you may well be in financial trouble and that it’s time for you to take action:

…continue reading the article titled 10 Indications That You’ve Got Financial Problems

So many people write to me asking me what debt relief options are available to them for paying off and eliminating overwhelming credit card debt. There are different options available depending on if you’re behind on your payments or how severe your situation is…Read on, as I’ve listed them in an easy to understand manner. Above all, whatever route you take, make certain, the company you work with is credible and reputable and ultimately, one you trust! You can feel free to email me at coach@debtfreediva.com if you have questions or need further information on recommended companies to work with.

…continue reading the article titled Debt Relief Options Available for Paying Off Overwhelming Credit Card Debt

Debt got you down? You’re not alone. Consumer debt is at an all-time high.

What’s more, record numbers of consumers-nearly 1.5 million in 2001-are filing for bankruptcy. Whether your debt dilemma is the result of an illness, unemployment, or simply overspending, it can seem overwhelming. In your effort to get solvent, be on the alert for advertisements that offer seemingly quick fixes. While the ads pitch the promise of debt relief, they rarely say relief may be spelled b-a-n-k-r-u-p-t-c-y. And although bankruptcy is one option to deal with financial problems, it’s generally considered the option of last resort. The reason: its long-term negative impact on your creditworthiness. A bankruptcy stays on your credit report for 10 years, and can hinder your ability to get credit, a job, insurance, or even a place to live.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) cautions consumers to read between the lines when faced with ads in newspapers, magazines or even telephone directories that say:

“Consolidate your bills into one monthly payment without borrowing.”
“STOP credit harassment, foreclosures, repossessions, tax levies and garnishments,”
“Keep Your Property.”
“Wipe out your debts! Consolidate your bills! How? By using the protection and assistance provided by federal law. For once, let the law work for you!”

You’ll find out later that such phrases often involve bankruptcy proceedings, which can hurt your credit and cost you attorneys’ fees.

If you’ve been carrying a big credit card balance and suddenly need an extra $300 a month to make your minimum payments, now’s a good time to re-examine your finances. With some smart spending shifts and careful planning, virtually anyone can dig an extra 10 to 15% out of their budget.

Most credit card companies have raised minimum payments from 2% to 4% of your balance, meaning you’ll get out of debt much quicker. Here is a great article that discusses what you need to do.

PBS recently aired a documentary called “The Cement LifeRaft”. The two featured authors discussed the predatory lending practices of the mortgage and credit card industries. You can view the documentary and read the transcript here.