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- She’ll Be Just Fine
Your mom is financially stable, and paying off her mortgage makes sense. With no house payment, she’ll need less income and can enjoy greater peace of mind.... more
- Safe and Easily Accessible
Sell the stock and keep your emergency fund liquid. Stability matters more than market risk. Then, resume 401(k) contributions to secure your future.... more
- Emergency Fund for Teens?
A teen should save three months’ worth of car expenses for emergencies. It builds responsibility and smart financial habits for the future.... more
- Approach it Like a Sales Call
Follow up confidently but not pushily. Ask for a timeline, show enthusiasm, and treat it like a sales call—demonstrating the skills they seek.... more
- Honor Your Obligations
Even small payments show effort and build discipline. Prioritize necessities, pay what you can, and stick to a budget—your finances will improve.... more
- The Game’s Not for Everyone
Colin, don’t risk your retirement for a rental. Save up, buy with cash, and start small to see if being a landlord is truly right for you.... more
- Hitting Your Goals Means Planning Your Goals
Rae, set specific, measurable goals with a deadline, make them your own, write them down, and stay focused. Small steps daily will lead to success!... more
- Compromises Are Part of Marriage
Freddie, open communication is key. Discuss your concerns honestly, listen to her feelings, and consider counseling to find a solution together.... more
- A Roadmap to Financial Peace
Stay focused, Miles! Follow the Baby Steps, stay disciplined, and you’ll achieve financial freedom. You’ve got this—your journey to financial peace starts now!... more
- Your Income is the Key
Tackle student loans in Baby Step 2. Live on a strict budget, focus intensely, and use every dollar possible to pay them off quickly!... more
- My Best Piece of Advice?
Settle with the collection agency based on your finances. The creditor may not be paid directly. Best advice: stop using credit cards altogether!... more
- Keep a Boundary in Place
Keep savings separate to avoid blurring lines with checking. Separate accounts help protect your emergency fund from unnecessary spending.... more
- When You Hit Rock Bottom
Take responsibility, get 2-3 jobs, live on a strict budget, and repay debts. Prioritize integrity and seek support from a good community or church.... more
- Imitate Successful Behavior
Wait to buy a nicer, slightly used car with cash after completing Baby Step 3. Avoid new cars unless your net worth exceeds $1M.... more
- Can They Handle It?
Including teens in budget discussions teaches them valuable money skills without overwhelming them. Keep it positive and age-appropriate!... more
- A Different Situation Than Most
Go ahead with your honeymoon! You’re financially stable, and your fiancé’s job prospects are strong. Congrats on your wedding—enjoy!... more
- Be Gentle, but Don’t Fund Financial Irresponsibility
Charles, stop bailing her out. Support her in learning better money habits, but enabling her overspending only worsens the problem.... more
- Seeing Things in a Different Way
Allison, try budgeting as a team. It’s a powerful tool to reach goals together, and small sacrifices now can lead to exciting possibilities later!... more