The Question of the Day - Finances

Today's question is about personal finances. Not something in the Relax Consulting suite of offerings, but given my background in credit and collections - a fair question.

I'm struggling with divorce debt and life debts, my unemployment is about to run out, all I have is a part time job that doesn't pay well, and I am stressed out and cannot afford groceries. What do I do?


That's probably a feeling we all have from time to time. the person I was talking to is considering bankruptcy and is getting all sorts of advice about maxing out credit cards, buying a new car, etc... the bankruptcy reformation that took place in 2005 changed the bankruptcy landscape and made it more difficult for people to cheat the system. Bankruptcy is still an option, but get your advice from an Attorney in your area and not from a friend or family member. In the case of legal matters, legal advice should come from a reputable and proven Attorney with a good track record. Many Attorneys have websites and offer a free initial consultation. One for instance is: Macey Bankruptcy Law who has a local office in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Fine them online at: http://www.maceybankruptcylaw.com/wisconsin/green-bay-bankruptcy-attorneys

You can retain their services for as little as $100 down and a payment plan. they will help with explaining the bankruptcy requirements, counseling requirements, and they will help deal with your creditors when it comes to that.

If bankruptcy is not the choice for you and you still have the need and desire to get your finances in order, there are free services that can help. The first step is to know exactly what you are looking at by obtaining a free copy of your credit report. A truly free way to obtain your credit report is by visiting: https://www.annualcreditreport.com/cra/index.jsp

You can also use Doctor Debt as a tool and guide: http://www.askdoctordebt.com/ Doctor Debt was created by ACA International, the association of credit and collection professionals.

There are plenty of tools out there, and Dr Debt even provides an excel spreadsheet you can use for monthly budgets. Know that you are not alone, more and more Americans are struggling with their finances and living paycheck to paycheck. Align yourself with a trusted professional to help get things back on track. There is always a light at the end of the tunnel, and if your credit score is low, there's no place to go but up!

may your paths be abundantly filled with lemons, sugar, and sunshine!

~Crystal