Before you start shopping for the holidays, set a reasonable budget, determine what’s fair for each person and stick to it. And be sure you’re following realistic gift guidelines.
Would it be fair if only the person making money in a marriage is allowed a little cash to spend for fun once in a while? Of course, not. Marriage is not a "me" thing, it’s a "we" thing.
Doing business with friends always comes with the risk of running into a situation that can damage the relationship. If you rent out a home to a friend, sign an agreement, just like with any other renter.
Some people come to believe that a fancy home or car are indications of their value or worth, and that’s sad. It means something inside them is broken, and filing for bankruptcy isn’t going to fix that.
Possibly the biggest factor separating those who stick with it and gain control of their finances, from those who give up and go back to their old ways, can be boiled down to one simple word - hope.
The concept of a zero-based budget is simple: income minus outgo equals zero. If you bring home $4,000 a month, you want everything you spend, save, give and invest to equal $4,000.
If you use debt to cover emergencies, you’re digging a financial hole for yourself. A strong foundation of any financial house includes an emergency fund.
Have a friendly, sit-down meeting with the client who owes you money. Ask a few questions, and find out what’s really going on. But he needs to understand you can’t be his bank.
If you’ve got a substantial net worth, or if there’s something that gives the impression someone might be able to get a lot out of you in a lawsuit, an umbrella insurance policy is a smart buy.
Debt is risk and it's eating up your largest wealth-building tool - your income. Knock out what you owe from smallest to largest using the debt snowball system.
Renters have the legal right of quiet enjoyment, meaning landlords don’t get to show up at all hours and harass them. But renters can't deny the owner access after they're given reasonable notice, either.
Impact investing generally aims to benefit society, while providing a profit for the investor, by investing in companies, funds and organizations that are aligned with causes, certain values or issues.
Here’s a simple, solid piece of advice for anyone looking to make a purchase of any kind. If you need a co-signer, you’re not ready to make that purchase, period.
Talk to debt collectors calmly and rationally; explain your financial situation. You may be able to reach a compromise. But if they get nasty, report them.
There’s a big difference between judging people and being judgmental. But it’s unkind not to share insights or suggestions for a better way of life with those you love most.
