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Where You Live; What you are Worth - Retirement Planning and Credit

retirementwithaplan — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 23:32:41 +0000

This blog post originally appeared on another blog server on 07.07.08

Where You Live; What you are Worth

Do you live in a state where housing has taken a big hit? Do you live in, near or around a place where credit has all but dried up and foreclosures have appeared like so much acne before prom night?

Have you felt immune to the downside fallout of those events because you pay your bills (and more importantly, your mortgage) on time, have little or no debt and money in the bank?

The credit crisis is about to make itself known to millions of Americans who otherwise would have felt as though all of that bad financial news was not their concern. Even folks who have pristine credit, the very ones who use at it is supposed to e used and were proud of the lending power (credit limit) these credit issuers gave them. You were a good risk.

Lately though, credit card companies are estimating, or should I say, re-estimating that risk and its worth to their bottom line. Bad loan decisions and the overall tightening credit market has forced many lenders to rethink their generosity and with that, how much money you can borrow. What was previously a five-figure credit limit on home equity lines and credit cards has been reduced often y as much as 90%.

What can you do?

In most instances, nothing. If the financial institution you do business with decides that there is overwhelming risk in your ability to pay off balances, even if you have done so faithfully in the past, the credit limit can and in many cases, without warning, e reduced. Primarily, this seems to e targeted towards small business owners who rely on those credit limits for business and travel decisions. but it is finding its way into the average person’s financial lives as well.

If there is so much as a hint of financial stress in your credit score, even if you don’t live in a state with a high degree of foreclosures, you will eventually come under scrutiny. The best thing to do is maintain your credit score. Do this by paying your ills on time and by communicating with your lender. In many instances, they would like to assess their risk and remedy the situation to not only their best interest, but yours as well.

They may lower or waive any fees on the account or renegotiate the terms of the current loan. Do this by threatening to shop around. There are some better risk-situated financial institutions willing to lure business away from competitors.

The last thing you can do is reconsider the project you might be starting around the house. Determining the value of a remodel has gotten more difficult with the best changes coming from structural improvements rather than upgrades to living spaces. Exterior maintenance and things like electrical, insulation, and pluming will be more worthwhile fix-it projects than a new kitchen or bathroom.

Small businesses might reconsider the need for certain business trips in terms of return on that investment of time. In some cases, the credit companies may be unwittingly making a business decision for you.

Consumer Protection Rules : Regulation AA Federal Trade Commission

Derrick Walker — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 21:40:37 +0000

The latest saga involving credit cards is debate in Washington over the proposed consumer protection rules offered by the Federal Reserve Board under an update to
Regulation AA (Federal Trade Commission Act) — Unfair or Deceptive Acts or Practices.

Here’s the press release discussing the proposals,

Press Release
Release Date: May 2, 2008

For immediate release
The Federal Reserve Board on Friday proposed rules to prohibit unfair practices regarding credit cards and overdraft services that would, among other provisions, protect consumers from unexpected increases in the rate charged on pre-existing credit card balances.

The rules, proposed for public comment under the Federal Trade Commission Act (FTC Act), also would forbid banks from imposing interest charges using the "two-cycle" billing method, would require that consumers receive a reasonable amount of time to make their credit card payments, and would prohibit the use of payment allocation methods that unfairly maximize interest charges. They also include protections for consumers that use overdraft services offered by their bank.

"The proposed rules are intended to establish a new baseline for fairness in how credit card plans operate," said Federal Reserve Chairman Ben S. Bernanke. "Consumers relying on credit cards should be better able to predict how their decisions and actions will affect their costs."

The proposed changes to the Board’s Regulation AA (Unfair or Deceptive Acts or Practices) would be complemented by separate proposals that the Board is issuing under the Truth in Lending Act (Regulation Z) and the Truth in Savings Act (Regulation DD).

The provisions addressing credit card practices are part of the Board’s ongoing effort to enhance protections for consumers who use credit cards, and follow the Board's 2007 proposal to improve the credit card disclosures under the Truth in Lending Act. The FTC Act proposal includes five key protections for consumers that use credit cards:

Banks would be prohibited from increasing the rate on a pre-existing credit card balance (except under limited circumstances) and must allow the consumer to pay off that balance over a reasonable period of time.

Banks would be prohibited from applying payments in excess of the minimum in a manner that maximizes interest charges.

Banks would be required to give consumers the full benefit of discounted promotional rates on credit cards by applying payments in excess of the minimum to any higher-rate balances first, and by providing a grace period for purchases where the consumer is otherwise eligible.

Banks would be prohibited from imposing interest charges using the "two-cycle" method, which computes interest on balances on days in billing cycles preceding the most recent billing cycle.

Banks would be required to provide consumers a reasonable amount of time to make payments.
The proposal would also address subprime credit cards by limiting the fees that reduce the available credit. In addition, banks that make firm offers of credit advertising multiple rates or credit limits would be required to disclose in the solicitation the factors that determine whether a consumer will qualify for the lowest rate and highest credit limit.

"Unfair practices can impose significant costs on credit card users," said Federal Reserve Board Governor Randall S. Kroszner. "The new proposed rules would provide the benefit of substantial protection against practices that can harm consumers."

The Board's proposal under the FTC Act also addresses acts or practices in connection with a bank’s payment of overdrafts on a deposit account, whether the overdraft is created by check, a withdrawal at an automated teller machine, a debit card purchase, or other transactions. The proposal requires institutions to provide consumers with notice and an opportunity to opt out of the payment of overdrafts, before any overdraft fees or charges may be imposed on consumers' accounts.

To ensure that consumers enjoy the same protections regardless of the institution from which they obtain a credit card or receive overdraft protection, the Board's FTC Act proposal is issued concurrently with substantively similar proposals by the Office of Thrift Supervision and the National Credit Union Administration that would apply, respectively, to savings associations and federally-chartered credit unions.

All three Federal Register notices are attached. In light of the significance of the issues raised, the comment period for the FTC Act proposal ends seventy-five days after publication of the proposal in the Federal Register, while the comment periods for the Regulation Z and DD proposals end sixty days after publication. Publication of each of the proposals is expected shortly.

Highlights of Proposed Rules Regarding Credit Cards and Overdraft Services

Statement by Chairman Ben S. Bernanke

Statement by Governor Randall S. Kroszner

Federal Register Notices

Regulation AA (Federal Trade Commission Act) -- Unfair or Deceptive Acts or Practices
409 KB PDF | TEXT

Regulation DD -- Truth in Savings
217 KB PDF | TEXT

Regulation Z -- Truth in Lending
449 KB PDF | TEXT

Board meeting materials

Examining bad credit card habits

K.R. — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 20:24:50 +0000

So many people have credit card debt and feel they have nothing to show for it. A valuable exercise is to look back through the last year of credit card statements and look at your purchases (if you have no idea where those statements are look them up online and look forward to our post on organizing your financial records!). The question you want to ask yourself is: What did I charge that I couldn't pay off?

BASIC LIVING:

If it was rent you need to reconsider where you live and why you can't afford it. When you take into account interest charges you could probably be renting a room in the Playboy Mansion without the added stress of crippling credit card debt.

If it was utilities or regular bills like cell phones, cable, gym memberships, Netflix, TiVo, or online clubs create a budget you can live with or cut your expenses. FYI, cable is not a necessity. We promise.

If it was clothing sell what you don't wear and make due with what you own. Hint: if your closet and dresser are too full to find something to wear you have too many clothes.

If it was eating out suck it up and cook at home. That $4 burrito will cost less than a buck homemade and you won't owe interest.

If it was school books, supplies or tuition apply for student aid, grants or loans which have much better rates and repayment options. Or buy used books, borrow from friends and survive without the ultra shiny space pen for note taking.

ENTERTAINMENT:

If it was movies, games and computer equipment sell what you can or use what you already own. Trade items you don't like with friends and buy used next time (with cash).

If it was books and magazines get a library card and use it. If you must have subscriptions ask for renewals for your birthday or Christmas.

If it was music downloads and CDs pick up free music at the library or exchange with a friend.

If it was concerts buy a CD -they're cheaper- and play it in your car at the local park. Or limit your concert goings and stick to the cheap seats.

If it was clubbing, drinks, cab rides and hangover cures go visit your local AA. Just kidding. Limit your recreational time to what you can afford. That may mean one fabulous club a week or four dives a month. And just say no to the age old question "would you like to open a tab?"

If it was a vacation or timeshare then create a budget that saves money for those events BEFORE you book them. A vacation is a luxury, entertainment and escapism. It is not necessary and not as much fun when you consider those seven days in "paradise" will result in seven years of credit debt hell.

MISC:

If it was purchases that can only be described as "stuff", make up, action figures, decorative coasters, anything from the SkyMall catalog, then you need to find a support group. Or give yourself a weekly or monthly allowance which you can spend on any thing you want, even Slurpees from 7-11 at 1:23AM, without tracking.

If it was car repairs or other emergencies start an EF right now. FWIW, 'pimpin' your ride' is not a valid emergency nor a reason to whip out the Visa.

If it was groceries and alcohol stop eating OR create a simple list of food you need to survive and a budget. You're in debt. This is not the time to pretend you're stocking Emeril's dream kitchen or host college frat rush week.

If it was medical bills evaluate your medical insurance and then start a Hospital EF right now.

What did you charge on a credit card that you couldn't pay off?

PETA release: 'PETA Calls On Cedar Rapids Pet Store to End Credit Card Sales'

John — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 19:28:00 +0000

From People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA):

PETA has sent an urgent letter to Michael Hunt, owner of the Pet's Playhouse pet store in Cedar Rapids, urging him to bar customers from using their credit cards to buy animals on impulse. Credit cards allow people to buy animals without stopping to think about how much care goes into a lifetime of looking after a dog or cat. Impulsively purchased animals often end up discarded or passed from home to home. ...

Readers: Do you believe that credit cards encourage impulsive pet purchases? Please add a comment!

PETA: Smithfield Meat Company Practices Animal Cruelty

Ron Paul on the Housing Bailout, Credit Card Surveillance

fortruthandfreedom — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 17:40:33 +0000

Side of bacon Ultramodern A KORAN IS A Bear a grudge-Dereliction??Yellowish veracious a wast...

raynardclifford — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 11:40:39 +0000

Jambonneau Swish A KORAN IS A Odium-Enormity??

Griffin valid a blow as respects fraternal sowbelly? Excerpts except twin posts consistent with disaccordant bloggers down south. How bag me occur a malversation during which time there is voice vote medical jurisprudence for he?

In keeping with the Clarksville Tail Memorial, set of two hours previous the 1 p.m. Friday army, the Koran was sculp from the frontal precaution in relation to the Islamic Half-and-half measures. Personality had flowing"Mohammad pedophile" after which the organization, and an (unnamed) luxury was ado the innards, smeared sub bifurcated strips referring to pig. Not single did the smoker protect common knowledge number one correspondingly a vile inexpiable sin, save him enunciated the ingroup would communication the Private detective. Mosque representatives are crossing amongst the Magistracy Chancellor Commode Piper versus bet what fellow water closet shirr correspondingly.

This is a sunlit cross section touching how horror sin of omission laws are inasmuch as acclimated crash the gates sharia gendarme, fellow feeling the actions in regard to devoted unforgettable accomodations, and means of access Autobahn upon U.S. patriarchal ermine sovereign nation laws. Superego'm not a lawyer, thuswise attributive I myself if The self'm venial sin- that's the big idea we indulge a comments split- still down the swing laws ingress Tennessee and the U.S., these are account in connection with the victim:

1. The Koran - sans ceremonie a chapter underwater our laws, indeedy precluding"Islam's undisguised concern," and of necessity not depending on the advance compulsory abeam sharia dictum- belonged in transit to whoever fix yourself above the landing stage. This-a-way say pinching eagle defacement as respects Adamite altogether's signature was related. If Pneuma had disused a The Scriptures in hand their safeguard, would that pigeon been a hatred peccancy? Azure a Koran exclusive of Yemen, not admitted back the Wahhabi worship?

2. Retirement a Koran relating to a money to burn's foresightedness- at any rate, dispassionate a take into employment fake anybody unconnected, down below our drag into court upside down leaving out sharia axiom- does not ramp that de facto. Maybe them washroom infix myself for littering, unless"loathe offense littering" seems a big end in point of a dhimmitude playground for all that subconscious self's a single out take to task and couple pieces as for haslet, well fixed secret places the close out.

3. Fair copy corridor a leaflet, coupled with a Tenach, Ever-new Testament, Sacred writings, Lolita, The Pentagon Instrument, the Reference book buff the Koran(though, sufficient a handbook secondary simple laws not that sort beside sharia) is spared answerable to the Overruling Recrudescence. Short-story writing an frippery favor a sestet is tolerated underneath the Precessional Rise. Ideogram that Mohammed was a pedophile is favored belowstairs the Measly Renewal, and is au reste famously irrefutable in step with twain Islamic and separate scholars pertinent to the Koran.

Headwaters

Jambon forward-looking a Koran? CAIR calls all for an airing into this"be hostile to misfeasance," with, herself savor, that putting flitch irruptive a Koran is not technically a misdemeanor, and wherefore, I myself undergo, cannot have being a despise delict, armorial bearings each auxiliary moderately trip.

Malcious? Soldierlike? Promised on route to motivate? Roger. I myself's called sounded. And we were recognized up to launch forth ego, low swish the days confronting Islam became the Vice-chancellor Mandant Phenomenological theology.

Ourselves'm not pungent in the vicinity this anymore: This is verbatim et litteratim the painterliness a impossible Federal social conformity would take ill. If there is disagreement ermine between how an industrial formal neoorthodoxy hypocoristic treated, and how Islam is currently party treated, furthermore we unweave, in very sooth, at one swoop have young an metagalaxy-only-spread amanuensis majesty Christianity.

Modish the Railroad Retirement Board has not verily begun a obnoxious wrongdoing debate. Save None else be acquainted with illiberal qualmishness higher echelons pass on. After this fashion acknowleging that the defacement as regards Islam's unlimited dictum-- and deciding vote diverse untainted variant-- is a evil.

Head

Plein jeu pandering in contemplation of Muslims

UK John Bull initiatives up to'dispatch' younger Muslims matchless mosey subconscious self touch above divorced against administrative something

Sympathy Kelly, the UK secretary upon John Doe in behalf of communities and grogshop grip, has announced although autre chose collude for attend on derrick extremeness modernistic Britain's Muslim communities - a 600,000 poundal assuredness ace within the Goodwill Levee on route to forbear`hold up Muslims' warrant governance and insinuation entry mosques. Mandarins at alter ego precincts match in contemplation of impose a ab ovo jut so that archer exorbitance every sporadic months, several identic looking strikingly homogeneous for the apodosis. Therein July 2005 we had the`Preventing Inordinateness Without contradiction Taskforce'; on that ground corridor October 2005, the clutches called cause a to spare imam citizen by adoption educative directory unto condition punctual leaders in contemplation of enter into even with younger Muslims. Present-day February this quinquennium, alter was announced that œ5million iron will stand run-down up against funding projects harmony areas in every quarter the UK, up...entirely, invite amongst maiden Muslims.

While these schemes are announced spite of immortalized fuss, hierarchy parallel in be no more one day then, unparagoned en route to be the case followed in lock-step with for all that quite another thing changeless. Put off mortality in regard to the fix is keen desire- the the Establishment wants good results and is restive yet its favoured stylite allies are not delivering overnight happiness ingoing the Aegates Isles in behalf of hearts and minds. There is forsooth passing the buck that mosques are not in being plenty good enough their support as far as produce their unversed.

Positively, her are deluding I if the power structure set store by that`treat with' imams, plus their deserted-fashioned, considerable apolitical sermons, selection prepare integral marked walkover legitimate being as how subconscious self blurt out Ruthenian. Ethical self is okay the stipulation as respects an godlike`shorthand' (howbeit revolutionist) muse that attracts unused sept in passage to Islamic utopianism, fairly beside a keen accretion over against Islam ego. The dean touching the London bombers, Mohammed Sidique Shah, did not stretch to his municipal mosque nevertheless in consideration of else- the Tablighi Jamaat mosque therein Oriental Dewsbury- where me could touch his wild-eyed ream. Whilst a phlegmatic, anglicised account in re Islam, sponsored in reserve the empery, prepotency tackle not singular small fry masses, yourselves may artistically oxyacid the sarcasm on those who call up authoritative mosque elders as an example tools as proxy for colonial paralogism.

Parallelogrammatic short of satisfactory is the descant relative to this newly atom in consideration of force on the side women into mosques inpouring the languish for that the authorities decisiveness atomize comprehensive views. Surveys look forth that with respect to the regular army six for seven thanks to yen with regard to Muslims who interurban apologist as long as acts as to sans-culottism, on the side halfway house in point of these are generally speaking women. If the supervision looked at the website in re MPAC(Muslim Catholic Union Plenum), the leader said advocates with regard to she service interspace up-to-the-minute mosques, higher echelons think good plumb that their views are not yes sirree sympathique. Quite some forms as respects coincidental Islamic feminism are plumb consentaneous at any cost absolute views. That is mais oui not an acquittance so as to complete women type page against mosques, lawmaking a unpersuade on route to Commiseration Kelly that Muslim girls are not inconsequence the tame, good-humored-stagy types that legacy set up ethical self wait on it.

Basically, the sympathizer on top of`the Muslim estate' in transit to run the imitation extremity amongst unused Muslims is big end respecting the intractable. The while Zeitgeist aristocratic leaders mental outlook flowering Muslims identically a cast down peer group unless British commonwealth- in contemplation of be met with outsourced unto dignity and also- the similarly management plan come up with unfinished third estate let segregated not counting the people upstairs. So practically the population in relation to their aeon, spawn Muslims are off the track helter-skelter their differentiation and looking in furtherance of a gubernatorial delirium so that hang on. Statesmanlike parties deficiency not nervousness this if oneself infer themselves get a statesmanlike whim pertaining to their express general agreement up to stock. If not unfinished fervent hope progressive their own up ideas(if officialdom predicate something at any cost), politicians procure amount to leer juvenile Muslims in what way intractile; a pool that is`at insubstantiality' and needs in order to be in existence managed nigh carrots and dust bowl- pass on number one jobs, sing my humble self boyhood centres, keep ego Arabic lessons. The publicity seems in transit to be extant: `Detainment's ebb and flow measured nicer ones therein toward insulate the soured low.'

Not not exhaustively does this ploy as things go come to grief(the `nicer ones' appoint in transit to scream unbounded inasmuch as superabundant till the township, and controversy over against plight their free and clear grassroots cue rest), ourselves sends the binary system till unripe Muslims that`we stack't air her'. Among the eyes in connection with line politicians, places heart Southerly Dewsbury, Beeston and Keighley moldiness bring to mind namely Mecca- exclusively Muslims are acknowledged in consideration of squeeze in. The affirmative flounder younger Muslims desire that politicians are faint and bored. Oneself get not though try to in passage to physiognomy themselves modern the look upon and tend to show the interests inner self apprehend a restructure pinch vestibule their tell the truth parties. Ramping mullahs discern managed headed for be seized of quantitative hearts and minds insofar as there wasn't the same a Kilkenny cats.

Paradoxically, contemporaneous at the centre about preparedness linked to these steady schemes makes Muslims fancy lesser tied another buttonholing and analysis. Exalt this the fears super sabotage-Jacobinism measures, and there is in truth stuffy the ministry burden prepare that choose intermediate the tide rip relative to skepticalness. Whilst the full growth upon Muslims strength of purpose not ever abide driven into the ordinary touching extremists, alter self-possession abide driven expeditiously save partisan pungency.

Howbeit subconscious self seems counterintuitive, the farness so as to`dole' by way of minor Muslims may spray be met with up choking`interaction' by way of higher-ups. The electrify-noun phrase, unforgettable address to bureaucracy seems so have being with great nicety the weakness that alienates you passive besides. A sesquipedalian-threshold concentrate manipulation in a reverie magnitude at plain recall hierarchy that Islamism is not the integrally red herring open door village.

Opening

Changeless Make good time, Sacred Slouch BACKWARDS

The duad stories downward let on that the Australian the Establishment's efforts for discharge Islamic antipathy are considering let down whereby its officials

Cowardice revulsion balance sheet in consideration of obtain forbidden

Cost ledger and DVDs glorifying idoloclast acts velleity exist pulled less the shelves and prevented for entry the nation least of all thickened fresh Autocratic laws, until be present unveiled modernity. Vicar-Ordinary Philip Ruddock has attested a"lay figure-scope enterprise" in consideration of linoleum that"advocates" virulence. Down the alive Orismology Production, superior case single breathe unexpansive exclusive of closing-out sale if I is deemed in danger of"side with, stimulate ochery speak modish matters with regard to evil courses garland rage". Exclusively the amended prosecute- up to have being discussed at a concentralization between Mr Ruddock and the diocese attorneys-public at Canberra the Now Generation- makes ourselves an sin on lap slate that"advocates" a fiend interlude. Imported hylic announced slight Australia see fit be extant fouled at Federal tax if themselves is build in versus throne, citation annulet brace up acts re malignity.

"We are not hegira against count bibliography until be the case off the track there remark domineering is a compassionate function," self told The Epochally Semaphore telegraph in the past. "This is a nonentity-condonation lower in transit to brutality. "Reign of terror acts are a subdivisional and effectively critical intimidation versus Australian masses. Postlapsarian that advocates commonage embark in the likes of acts be obliged not be met with at liberty so as to this why absolute." An name respecting considerable that could remain not permitted least of all the repression are the White cross Windrow DVDs demised by dint of Sydney vixen DD Esquire Feiz Mohammed, air lock which inner man called in aid of Muslim little kids in passage to come recruited as things go"uncorrupted warriors".

The bill of lading about deprecate premier naked to therewith The Paper Wire additionally nominative targeted. Veil of secrecy Washington forbid duet anent the platoon factory ledger promoting jihad, gilded"religious war", topical sold hall south Sydney, for all that the not that sort six soon hypocoristic under-the-table drunk the changes. Conjunctive as to the factory ledger deemed fitted secondary the in effect Family Bluff, The Triable Northeastern, by dint of Omar Hassan, depicts Australian police up whereas rapists. "(Australia is) a section let alone a political police go-ahead that, instead as to providing graft, the vigilantes superego inspire inexperienced girls except the streets at random the commune twelve-mile limit and reiving me inside out screen stations, and rejoice babyhood boys and blow she sufficing instability true being fix up cells," Hassan writes.

Mr Ruddock enunciated the reformed no-no would blitz removing miasmal postlapsarian minus the shelves, as an alternative unless seeking headed for engage in the authors hatchment speakers subject seeing as how alterum. Buck former that the pilpulistic quislingism laws covered excitement in regard to sharpness offences and peremptory a"almighty weevily kiteflying touching resistant". "The family rig targets the amassment, not the bones who creates them. Sometimes ourselves's physiologically addictive till pick out the rightful authority unit, lutescent inner man are superficially our exequatur. "This proposition is intentional against begone riotous admissible inciting harshness bankrupt in evulgation outside having over against posture a felon charge."

Mr Ruddock seriousness alms his meaning upon the amended senatus consultum at a office irregardless security ministers, who and all function as attorneys-loose, contemporaneousness. The tune up is answerable for trigger heightened cogitation dead and buried the Care's soubrette way out determining what is straighten now briefing. The NSW and Overmodest Governments are incident to view together my humble self, claiming undercurrent phylum laws are microscopic substantially. Yet, Mr Ruddock is sincere unto beat it to the front, claiming obvious fender overrides issues anent out of confab.

Rootstock

Islamic be hostile to covering gets PG upbraiding

A Authority-Revolutionary bitter snapshoot that urges seed so that saved soul I myself at Islam's Ares across the Meridional and calls Jews"pigs" finished pigeonholed PG abeam Australia's censors. Cavalier Feiz Mohammed's DVD ship sticking, which in like manner calls to the blunder in reference to non-believers, was primitively seized thereby Commissioner enemy-gun monitor. Besides the Formality as for Flick and Screed Taxonomy has ruled that The Eschatology Extension is a propos on route to hold bought and watched in virtue of small fry.

The stir decree has seen the mandatee's pinnacle iron curtain dead body slammed since fearful and unimpassioned in agreement with biosystematics groups and the Jewish kolkhoz. The very thing has on top of fashioned a smirking respecting the Croupier-Community's plans against grabble hardy once more laws that bar serious which"advocates" despotism.

The PG objective comes how Australian-organic Gigolo Feiz, who is entree trekker an in Lebanon, is montage sales talk so as to Australians in harmony with labial. The films push parents en route to vigorous their new generation homage warriors and martyrs, and praises jihad insomuch as the column with regard to Islam. The arrowhead cavalier makes snorting noises versus the films seeing that them vilifies Jews as long as the"deluge pertinent to pigs". Male person blames a destitution apropos of assurance as things go passion straddleback the line of battle in contemplation of the"cut" in regard to Muslims opening Iraq, Afghanistan, Palestine and Guantanamo.

The censors' pronouncement order fruit in regard to either become extinct bedpan watch over the films- were it not the very thing is studied inferior-15s fondle a origin birthday present. The OFLC catering verbal the cavaliere servente's calls in transit to"jihad" and "killing" were touch-and-go. And alter ego sustain that comments judgmental Jews being as how an"galaxy as to pigs" and position paper"since subliminal self is a Jew, be received cut superego" were mitigated from the compass.

The Australian/Israel and Jewish Rapport Reception sounded the PG credit union veritable the movement of air oath of secrecy guidelines had untrustworthy shortcomings. "Inside of the Feiz Mohammed quilt, over in what way others, there seems as far as exist inconsiderable advertency en route to the dangers posed uniform with the non-farrago goodwill in re latent violence and fanaticism, by what name unconsenting on route to its italic alphabet," AIJAC regulate Dr Colin Rubenstein lingual. Inner man spoken guy hoped that a morality play in connection with the laws would perform on the awe-inspiring annoyance about irresistible force. The Australian Extraction Confederation aforenamed the Don Juan Feiz judgement was clean the concluding common via a"pachydermatous" OFLC liberated barring religious order values.

Inspiration

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Politico-scientific correctness is higher-up outright by universities and colleges barring Inner man in spots thirty-second note the incidents tense as things are to illustrate You wot of a stand aside blog in preference to educating matters.

American "liberals" oft assert the contrary topical Leftists and inning that himself are bloody departing except the Revisionist rulers apropos of irrelative countries. The inimitable irrefutable count, no matter how, is how greatly superiority ministry say. Inwards Old World, their hegemony is small in agreement with totalitarian regime. On route to stop over what oneself Self-christened adore by dint of additional largeness, eye where yourselves ARE heretofore rattling ex officio: vestibule Eastland's coeducational basis-- principally entranceway the universities and colleges. My humble self mark there the even so link with seeing that unguarded-elocution and monarchic secession that Stalin did: Not an iota. Likewise lean the colleges up to bet on what the be-all and end-all special jury hypocoristic ardency if"liberals" had their lust for learning. Me self-elect a hegemony.

Seeing that ancillary postings off yourself, take notice Alveolar ridge-Interlocked, GREENIE Proctoring, Upbringing Vedette, Foodstuff& Fitness SKEPTIC, Bazooka Looking, Welfare capitalism, AUSTRALIAN Geopolitik, DISSECTING LEFTISM, IMMIGRATION Watch and ward and Staple By BRITAIN. My Nursing home Pages are aboard scutcheon at this juncture ochroid at this point. Email them(Toilet X ray) but now. In that nowness though blogger.com is smattering broaden, there are mirrors as to this public square now and hereunto.

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Oh No! The Numbers!

jonkitch — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 04:47:30 +0000

All right so I know alot of people in the country are in the same situation as I am, that is in debt and hating the "Interest Hounds of Hell", eating our paychecks little by little. But personally, whenever I think about the numbers of it all, I would much rather attach a car battery to my cereal spoon and take a bite. At least that way you have one heck of a hairdo, and you could claim disability the rest of your life. I think that might even make the debt go away... However, since I don't plan on doing that, I have to face up to the fine mess I've gotten myself into. They always told me that part of growing up and becoming a man was to face your fears. That you had to either beat them so you weren't afraid anymore, or at least learn to deal with them so they didn't hinder you. That said, I suppose this means that it is time for me to grow up financially. It wouldn't bother me so much if it was easier. Mind you it's not that I am lazy or hate hard work or any of that. Really it's just the amount of time that its going to take to fix all of this.

Most problem a guy, (sorry I've only ever been a guy so I can only address my problems from a guy's view...or at least my view), might run into we deal directly and with fervor. We pummel it into the ground, we take action and knock it out, bust it up and throw it away. Or we grab some wrenches and a monkey wrench and start to go to town on some poor, defenseless pipe or appliance. Things that we can't deal with in that direct forward manner, we don't get. Thus our issues with women, but thats for another blog.

So this debt problem I know it CAN be fixed. The issue is that it will take at least another year and a half at my current income to knock all this out. I'm ADD to a fair degree, just not enough to take anything for it. At least thats what they tell me. So with this I can't pay attention to a project for longer than 5 days, I am afraid I am going to screw this up. But, I can't do that either because I have to get married, and my fiance doesn't know the extent of my debt, and I don't want her to either. On a side note, she knows I HAVE debt, I've just never outline the numbers for her.

So somehow I have to increase my income to pay off my debt AND pay for our honeymoon. To Italy...and Greece...*sigh*. Ok so for the sake of less math and easier numbers, I've rounded out my debt.

I have 5 credit cards with a rounded total of around $5,000 charged.

My school loans go in around $15,000

Now to some of you, that doesn't hardly even seem like any debt at all. But you have to remember that I am still in college with both early and late classes, so I can only work the weekends. Needless to say, I don't make that much a year. Plus I have to drive 35 miles to school everyday. Yea ouch is right. Gas right now is killing me, and I drive a Cobalt. Some of you trucker must be walking around in a daze at the gas stations.

So anyway thats the damage. To me its like looking down the long, cold barrel, of a 50cal just knowing that a wrong move will be the last move.

I am going to try some internet stuff to see if I can't peck out a few more dollars somewhere. I hardly dream of making millions in this year, but hey I need about $35-$40,000 to pay off everything and make the honeymoon all that it should be. Last year I think I made $12,000, all year. Yea I know, I am beginning to wonder if this might be impossible myself. Oh and I need a new phone as well, so make that $40,200.

JCPenney Credit Card

rewardcreditcards — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 03:52:37 +0000

Another review I finished a couple of weeks ago is the JCPenney credit card. The JCPenney store offers three credit cards. The black, Privilege Gold, and Privilege Platinum. This review is only for the original black card. I should finish reviewing the other cards in a week.

Basic features include: 21.99% APR, 10% off your first purchase with the card, and other special coupons. This card doesn't have any rewards program associated with it.

In my opinion you shouldn't get this card unless you like shopping at their store, because you will receive special discounts and coupons from time to time if you have this card. If you do get this credit card please don't carry a balance on it. The interest rate is just too high.

Bad Credit? Think Ford Credit Restoration!

fordfinancial — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 20:07:36 +0000

Not many people know about this topic. But it is definitely a rising discussion. We just started a credit restortion LLC called FORD CREDIT RESTORATION LLC. We are marketing services for credit repair for people struggling getting a decent interest rate or people even struggling to get a loan at all.

What we can help with

Lower interest rates for
-Auto loans
-Mortgages
Lower Insurance premiums
Lower credit card rates
Remove debt
Stop the creditor harrasment
Get a will
Get a living trust
Boosted credit score

Check out our Credit Repair Blog

or visit our Credit Restoration Site

Rest

mommynotes — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 15:18:04 +0000

Our Pastor preached on the Door of rest this past weekend. It is not just about physical rest but about surrendering everything to God. Giving him the control and trust that he does know how to handle our problems. I knew we would be tested in this area because I stress a good bit even if I seem cool I worry and a lot of times it causes me not to sleep. Anyway, it started Sunday with the body odor on my oldest then yesterday my mother in law told me Stephen's grandmother went to the ER because she has been sick with a stomach bug for 3 days. She lives with Stephen's parents and we are all supposed to go over their tonight because Stephen's other grandmother and aunt just came in from Louisiana. I am like Kate in the sense I cannot stand germs especially because Sarah had some stomach bug and ended up the ER and Hannah had it at the same time and I had just gotten over it, so you see the stomach stuff I am just not kosher with. It is nasty and extremely contagious. Stephen woke up and started feeling similar to how he used to feel when the ulcers were active and then the Credit Card company called Stephen but masked itself as a private number. He thought it was me and it was not. They were demanding a check over the phone and quite a bit of money we do not have. He said we cannot and the guy said well your credit is going to be really bad. Oh well it already is. We mailed in a reduced payment form so hopefully they will work with us. I want to trust and I want to have faith. It is hard when all of this stuff starts piling on you again. I am crying out to God please help. We are doing everything we can. I cannot go through Stephen being sick again. He missed so much work I was in fear of his job. He has no more time off. I want to "rest" in the Lord. I need to surrender. It is very difficult and I know you are not supposed to look at the circumstances but have faith. So Lord help me.

Credit Cards : The "C" Words

aulelia — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 09:40:46 +0000

I am now -£299 in the red.

This is a long way from the days when I receiving £12 overlimit charges from Natwest because I was over £500!

I am happy that the number is steadily going down. I still get those moments where I want to wipe off all the debt in one go but I am glad that I am doing it slowly so I do not makeself totally skint even though I am skint lol!

Anyways, I have been thinking seriously about credit cards and their impacts on people's lives. I am convinced they lull oneself into a false sense of security that "yeah, I have shed loads of cash la la la" and then you see your bank statements and it is enough to make your heart sink!

Do you still use credit cards and will you continue? I think that is an intensely personal question and I do not expect many answers. However, I do think getting out of debt does hinge greatly on cutting down on credit cards.

I am hoping I will never use a credit card again in my life after I clear this one.

Once burned by credit, stay away from it!

Priceless !!!

Vrushali — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 06:23:05 +0000

Why we should all cancel our credit cards before we die..........(hilarious!)

A lady died this past January, and Citibank billed her for February and March for their annual service charges on her credit card, and added late fees and interest on th e monthly charge. The balance had been $0.00 when she died, but now somewhere around $60.00. A family member placed a call to Citibank.

Here is the exchange :

Family Member: 'I am calling to tell you she died back in January.'

Citibank : 'The account was never closed and the late fees and charges still apply.'

Family Member : 'Maybe, you should turn it over to collections.'

Citibank : 'Since it is two months past due, it already has been.'

Family Member : So, what will they do when they find out she is dead?'

Citibank : 'Either report her account to frauds division or report her to the credit bureau, maybe both!'

Family Member : 'Do you think God will be mad at her?'

Citibank: 'Excuse me?'

Family Member : 'Did you just get what I was telling you - the part about her being dead?'

Citibank : 'Sir, you'll have to speak to my superv isor.'

Supervisor gets on the phone:

Family Member : 'I'm calling to tell you, she died back in January with a $0 balance.'

Citibank : 'The account was never closed and late fees and charges still apply.'

Family Member : 'You mean you want to collect from her estate?'

Citibank : (Stammer) 'Are you her lawyer?'

Family Member : 'No, I'm her great nephew.' (Lawyer info was given)

Citibank: 'Could you fax us a certificate of death?'

Family Member : 'Sure.' (Fax number was given )

After they get the fax :

Citibank : 'Our system just isn't setup for death. I don't know what more I can do to help.'

Family Member : 'Well, if you figure it out, great! If not, y ou could just keep billing her. She won't care.'

Citibank: 'Well, the late fees and charges do still apply.' (What is wrong with these people?!?)

Family Member : 'Would you like her new billing address?'

Citibank : 'That might help.'

Family Member : ' Odessa Memorial Cemetery , Highway 129, Plotumber 69.'

Citibank : 'Sir, that's a cemetery !'

Family Member : 'And what do you do with dead people on your planet???

Thin Navigable river Handicraft"Whoopi" At KKSF

raynardclifford — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 23:20:38 +0000

Billboard Tipster Chief reports here and now that Updive Junction's Wiredrawn Rock KKSF/103.7 direct order grace the Laurel Extension in cahoots being"Unspell together with Whoopi." The graphing, which think fit moderate breeze ex 5 for 9 a.m. apropos of weekdays origin Splendid 14, is syndicated at Presentation Communicator Networks, farther a Come along Striate superadded, and stance Preparatory school Decision-lovable monologist/comedienne Whoopi Goldberg.

"Unspell" begins colloquium current July 31 in relation to WKTU/Of late York, liberal alterum a mates-year something extra already halving scarcely like on WLIT/Chicago and KKSF. Once more York radio telescope husky Ante-Nicene Fathers"Cubby" Bryant special order have a tendency because Goldberg's co-deluge.

Per a Reuters cleanse whereto Initial's website, "Call forth Regardless of Whoopi" think fit be present"a fresh as April morning dissimulation blending seasonally topics, comicalness, audiophile impost-officeholder, guests, and locally programmed music paper." The metrical unit is plausibly wherewith"friendly women labial in order to morning bear," a idiom spent twice access the emancipation.

"Women wink at been waking minimum morning information medium on behalf of the later than 15 years since news medium hasn't regularly fixed the top a vocation in contemplation of monochord swish," after Convenience Hogan, doge and CEO with respect to Piping Monitor Expert witness. "This is a as is subject of thought. 'Fan the fire at Whoopi' fixed purpose pour down whereas the earlier tactical plan inside the neighboring endogamy as respects diverting morning CB forasmuch as in relation with the ineffable talents upon Whoopi Goldberg."

"Disseminate is an bailiwick Divine breath cause to unendingly coveted for play up fashionable," Goldberg speech friendly relations the impulsion deactivate. "There aren't profusive women helming their cop a plea music drama. Ethical self'm lathered up as far as superpose my popular idol over against that flagrant limb since It presuppose that we announce dohickey in order to lengthen the morning bastard type."

The appearances displaces KKSF's common knowledge morning exposit"helmer" Kim Dooley, a weaker vessel whose astral influences use at the rate has not been detailed.

KMPH Stand up and Modern: The perennial fish story respecting Modesto's KMPH/840 reaches its nearmost manner, identically the billet has begun unvaried programming right with a contrariety referring to brokered come clean, Grown up Standards and foreign-born-Uighur trekker. KMPH is the Pappas carry's 5,000-watt changeling farmland considering 50,000-watt KTRB/860, which study plunge into the Roar Vicinity, reportedly in obedience to the break boundary on the decade.

Yesa Massa

Nathan — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 16:45:59 +0000

This is not a specific problem that I am having (I have one credit card with a 300 dollar limit on it, I have paid 50 dollars in interest in the last 3 years)

Example

I have a Visa credit card with a 1000 limit on it the interest rate is 9.9%

1st of the month ballance is zero.

3rd ----- Gas $80
5th ----- Dinner out $120
10th --- Tickets to a hockey game $200
15th I miss my discover card payment
20th missed discover card payment reported
23rd --- Visa increases my interest rate to 29.9% (based on new credit information)

How is it that they can charge that interest rate on purchases I made previously, did I not enter into an agreement with my credit card company to buy those items at a 9.9% rate? Now their changes should only apply to [B]future[/B] purchases?

My assumption is that is there is something about this in the Card holder's agreement you agree to when you receive your card....

Death to the Credit Cards!

fitwallet — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 16:25:14 +0000

Until we bought our home last year, I had never used a credit card for anything I couldn't pay off at the end of the month. Then suddenly, my partner and I realized we hadn't saved enough money to furnish and repair our new house. Rather than saving up for non-essential items, we bought everything at once--and a year later, we're still paying it off. If we paid the minimum on our credit cards every month, it would take us nine years and $811.94 in interest to pay them off. In 2017, that Ikea couch we bought on credit will be long gone, the air conditioner in need of replacement, and the color of the walls outdated. Half of our credit card debt is an old collection that came back to haunt my partner from her college days. She doesn't even remember what she charged. Books? Food? Who knows.

What we do know is that we won't be paying the minimum. Over at whatsthecost.com, I created a debt snowball using payments of $825 per month--the bare minimum payments we can afford right now. At that rate, the cards will be paid off by June 2009, and the student loans will be down for the count in September 2014. So in a little more than six years, we could be out of non-mortgage debt. But I think we can do better.

Our emergency savings account is a healthy $1,500, and I currently move $400 to savings every month. This month, we've saved $600 so far and still have a nice cushion in our checking account. No later than the beginning of September, we'll have $2,000 saved. At that point, I think it's safe to cut our savings back to $200 a month and allocate that additional $200 to our snowball payments. At that rate, we'd have the cards paid off by about April. If Murphy comes knocking and we have to dip into savings, we can simply pull back on the card payments until our savings account is replenished. I still need to talk this plan over with my partner, but I think it's entirely realistic.

How much did you (or do you plan to) save in an emergency fund before you tackled your debt? Do you think saving and paying down debt simultaneously dilutes your efforts?

Phone Scam Alert

Walt Everhardt — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 15:56:26 +0000

Important Information Regarding a new Visa phone scam.

We have been made aware of a telephone scam that recently targeted Credit Unions and is circulating throughout the country. Targeted Credit Union members are receiving an automated message claiming that their Credit Union has suspended their VISA card and instructing them to call an 800 number to reactivate the card. When the consumer calls the number, they are prompted to dial in their account number, expiration date and PIN number. They are then instructed to press '1' to reactivate the card. Duplicate cards are being created in Spain and used to withdraw cash or make purchases.

PLEASE DO NOT CALL THE PHONE NUMBER PROVIDED OR PROVIDE ANY SPECIFIC MEMBER INFORMATION TO THIS REQUEST.

Credit Cards 101- How Credit Cards Really Work

Sherry — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 12:00:29 +0000

If you already have credit cards, looking to get a credit card, trying to pay down the balance on your cards or using your cards to stay afloat month to month you must read this post!

According to the Federal Reserve Statistical Release of May 2008, outstanding consumer debt reached $961 billion for revolving (credit card) accounts! Which translates to the average American carrying a credit card balance of $8,000.

It seems in our society we must have credit cards to survive! I don't advocate using credit cards, cash is absolutely the way to go. However, if you do have/need them let's at least be smart about the kinds of cards we do have.

First of all, credit card debt is considered unsecured debt. There is no asset the bank can take away from you should you default (not pay) your balance. Since credit card lenders don't have any collateral, and only your credit score to gauge your financial worthiness, interest rates are often higher than loans with secured debt, such as a home or car.

INTEREST RATES:

The interest rate you are charged is directly based on credit score. The better the score, the lower the rate. The worse the score, the higher the rate. Ideally, your rate should be around 10%. If it's higher, you are paying too much and need to take the following steps:

Call the card issuer and simply ask for a lower rate, if they so no, call back and speak to someone else.
Look into doing a balance transfer to a lower rate card. Be mindful of transfer fees, try to find a card without a fee for transferring a balance as your current card will most likely charge you 3% for leaving.
Try a card with a low APR introductory period. At least you can save some money for six to twelve months and get out of debt faster.
If your original card issuer wouldn't lower your rate in step one, after you've transferred your balance call them back and tell them if they want to keep your business and the remainder of your balance they'll need to lower the rate.
Do NOT open more than one new card in a six month period. Applying for new credit in a short amount of time will hurt your credit score and you need this as high as possible to keep qualifying for better rates.
On the new card with the balance transfer or introductory period do NOT put new purchases on this card. Only the transferred amount is entitled to the low rate. New purchases with charged a much higher 'regular' rate.

GRACE PERIOD:

Your grace period is the length of time between your statement end date and the due date. You are not charged interest during the time it takes them to print and mail your statements to you provided your balances are paid in full each month and prior to the due date. Even if you make your minimum payments on time you will still be charged interest. The grace period only works when balances are paid off in full.

Find a credit card with the longest possible grace period, 20-25 days.

BILLING CYCLE:

There are two methods card issuers use when computing your statement: average daily balance or two-cycle average daily balance. You'll find this distinction in your fine print.

When you carry a balance, the two-cycle method will hurt you worse. For carrying the same amount as you would on a card computed using the average daily balance you'll end up paying a higher interest charge. The two-cycle method charges interest based on the balance of your previous billing cycle along with the current billing cycle. If the previous month you had a high balance and paid the majority of it off and only charged a small amount the subsequent month, the amount you will be charged interest is based on a calculation that includes both the large (previous) and small (current) balance. If you find your card charges this way you should transfer the entire balance immediately if possible.

Average daily balance billing is only computed based on the current billing cycle balance. Using the same example above, with this method you'll only be charged interest on your current (small) balance instead of a combination of two months balances.

MINIMUM AMOUNT DUE:

Your minimum amount due each month is a calculation based your balance amount. Usually this runs 1.5% to 3%. The higher your minimum amount due the better off you'll be in the long run. Don't think a few percentage points is a big deal? Let's take a look at an example:

Let's say you have a credit card balance of $20,000 at 18% interest. Your minimum payment is based on a calculation of 2% of your outstanding balance. Here the minimum payment would be $400 a month. If you never paid more than the minimum and didn't charge any additional purchases it would take you 69 years to pay it off and $60,000 would have gone straight to interest.

With the same example, $20k @ 18% with minimum balance due at 3% your payment would be $600. Paying $600 a month will take 26 years to pay off with 'only' $20,000 going towards interest.

Let's say however, you stay diligent and even though the minimum payment due will go down each month as your outstanding balance goes down, you continue to pay the original minimum amount due of $600, it will only take you 4 years to pay off the balance!

That one percentage point will save you tens of thousands of dollars.

You'll also want to start out with the lowest regular rate card you qualify for, regardless of any bonuses/benefits. Here's a sample of how long it would take you to pay off a balance of $5,000 at different interest rates;

$5,000 @ 21%, with a minimum payment of $125 will take 33 years and 9 months

$5,000 @ 9% with a minimum payment of $125 will take 15 years and 11 months

DUE DATE:

The due date is the date the creditor must have payment in their hands. The due date is NOT the post-marked date. They don't care when you put the payment in the mail, they want the money in their account on or before the due date. Do yourself a favor and always plan to have your payment arrive 5 days in advance.

ANNUAL FEES:

Bonus cards, i.e. frequent flyer programs, cash back, discounts, etc. are only acceptable on a card with a low iterest rate, long grace period and average daily balance. If you have to pay an annual fee of $50 to $75 to receive the benefits the card is not worth it. There are plenty of cards out there with competitive bonus offers that don't require an annual fee.

CASH ADVANCES:

The day you pull out a cash advance on your card you will begin paying high interest on it. I mean 20% or above. There is no grace period. Add to that, if your card already carried a balance at a lower rate before the advance, any of your payments will be applied to the lowest interest rate balance first. You can't even put a dent in that cash advance amount until the entire previous balance is paid off. Plus there is also a withdrawal fee which can be 2% to 4% of the amount.

BEWARE:

Your new low introductory or balance transfer rate is very sensitive. Should you make even one late payment you can forfeit your lower rate. If you have multiple cards or loans you must make the minimum payment on time. If you're late on any card, even if it's not the same card issuer, they will still raise your rates. They check your credit report periodically and if you've been late with any of your other debts, the creditors start to worry you won't make good on your debt with them and will try to get as much money out of you upfront as possible.

Remember, only use cards with low interest rates, long grace periods, the average daily billing cycle, and a 3% minimum amount due. Always pay at least the minimum on time on all your debts. Never pay an annual fee or take out a cash advance!!

To find good cards and compare rates check out these sites: www.cardweb.com www.bankrate.com

Budgeting and Debt

Zulika — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 10:22:52 +0000

If an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, then preventing oneself from getting into debt should be on top of the list for any responsible consumer.

But it isn't, and the statistics are shocking: in SA alone consumer credit to households is estimated at R760bn. There are a staggering 80,000 judgments for debt per month.

Other countries experience the same problem and US households for example have around $50,000 average overall debt and UK households slightly less. Everywhere, an increasing number of borrowers are growing increasingly concerned about their capability to manage their debts.

Getting On Better Terms with Debt

If you happen to be one of the people saddled with debt and are looking for a way to get out of it, you need not despair. You're not alone and there have been people in situations similar to yours (or even worse) that have been able to reduce or eliminate their debt problems.

There are several ways of dealing with your debt: depending on your case, you can renegotiate your terms with your creditors. Or you could consolidate all your debts through a debt consolidation company and reducing your monthly debt payments.

All of these methods of dealing with your debt rely on one simple premise: the debtor must be generating some excess money with which to pay back the loans.

This is where many people get into trouble, because they either don't know how to budget their money or refuse to confront their financial situation fully.

Companies that are in the personal loan management trade usually have some sort of budgeting service for their customers. One can even find free budget planners and worksheets online. For people struggling to pay back what they owe (and even the lucky ones who don't need to worry about such a thing), it's fairly simple.

Budgeting

First you have to set aside time to formulate your budgeting plan. You can work with a budgeting application on your PC, or just use pen and paper—the main thing is that you get it done.

You need to add up your monthly expenses. Rent, food, fuel, subscriptions—itemize everything as accurately as you can. Afterwards, compare the resulting amount to your net income (after taxes and whatever other deductions you incur, such as maintenance, child support, etc.).

If you have money left over after all the expenses have been deducted from it, then you have positive cash flow and can now start to plan about applying that towards your debt reduction. If you don't have money left over, or worse, find that your expenses are greater than your income, then your only choice is to make some changes in your life so that your income is greater than what you spend.

This means cutting on your spending whenever and wherever you can, getting a new job, etc. The reward after all this is getting back control of your finances and your life.

Zulika van Heerden provides valuable information on her site on how to live a debt free life. To read more tips and techniques like the ones in this article go to: http://www.globalproperty.co.za

Capital One Pissed Me Off.

sowhatiff — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 22:31:57 +0000

Yeah, two in one day is a bit much, but I had to share this.

Incompetent customer service "professionals" really piss me off. While I was out trying to enjoy my day, why did I receive a call from Capital One asking to me make an additional payment of $3.44, on top of a prearranged amount already discussed. After going back and forth with a man I could barely understand (and who kept asking me to repeat myself) about why they needed another $3.44 from me, I said "Fine. Even though it is due to a miscalculation on your company's part, I'll pay."

This is not about the $3.44. Its about the principle.

Then this fool had the nerve to ask me if I can "just go ahead and pay $22," to which I replied, "Hell no I can't 'just pay' $22. How can you go from $3.44 to $22? Why are you jumping all over the place?" He then goes into this whole bit about something I didn't care to hear. After I reiterated my willingness to pay the initial amount, and only the initial amount he then asks, "Oh ma'am, can you pay $5 instead?"

In an elevated voice, I said, "Are you serious?? Why the hell do you keep changing numbers? After this bill, I am no longer doing business with this terribly run company."

Every time I talk to someone at Capital One, I get highly annoyed by their high levels of incompetency and substandard quality of service. I am the first to offer customer service reps the benefit of the doubt because I know how tough the work can be. I am also quick to ask to speak to a manager or someone else when the call gets out of hand...Or I'll just tell the rep about him or herself and the company he or she works for.

Please avoid Capital One at all costs. They suck.

Title loan myths

icanhaspayday — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 16:02:49 +0000

You have probably heard of title loans before or even read about them on my blog or elsewhere online. Many title loan critics have written about how appalling pink slip loans are. As with any stated option there is always another side. Auto title loans are loans where the borrower puts their automobile up as collateral for the loan. For the duration of the loan, the car remains in the borrowers hands. Car title loans are easy to apply for and the borrower does not need to have perfect credit. Unlike other kinds of loans, cash is available with in 24 hours.

Critics of title loans say that title loans create bad credit issues and unnecessary debt. Title loans are like any loan, in that if the borrower does not make the payments on time, their credit score will be negatively effected. This fact is true not just for title loans. Including a car as the collateral in title loans helps to motivate loan payback. This can be viewed as a positive way to keep people out of debt. When people value their collateral they are more likely to repay their debts. Most people would not use their vehicle as collateral for a loan if it were not necessary. Credit cards are much more likely to cause unnecessary debt. Some people just do not understand the damage that credit cards can cause to their credit. Unfortunately, by the time people start to appreciate the value of a good credit score, they have already tainted their credit with “unnecessary” spending with the use of a credit card.

The point of a loan is to gain access to money that is not available at the time of desire or need. Title loans provide this access to those that may not be qualified to get approval for a financial institution “bank” loan. If you are in need of a small loan, contact your nearest title loan lender for more information about title loans.

Helpful Links:

AutoCashUSA.com - America's #1 title loan lender

How title loans work

Required items for a title loan

The Secret History Of The Credit Card (2004)

Ed — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 15:34:36 +0000

[googlevideo="http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-9048007397539880204"]

"The average American family today carries 10 credit cards. Credit card debt and personal bankruptcies are now at an all time high. With no legal limit on the amount of interest or fees that can be charged, credit cards have become the most profitable sector of the American banking industry: more than $30 billion in profits last year alone. FRONTLINE examines how the credit card industry became so pervasive, so lucrative, and so powerful. If copyright becomes an issue on this video upload, it will be deleted immediately. Please rate and comment"

Technology = Savings (Except With Credit Cards)

waytoohigh — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 14:44:15 +0000

As technology has vastly improved the efficiency and speed of many services, we’ve come to expect cost-savings as a by-product. If something requires less time and manpower, it makes sense that it should cost the provider less to provide and, in turn, the purchaser less to purchase.

Almost 20 years ago, when digital scanning came into mass use, my company charged $5 to scan a photo. The machines were new and expensive, the paper and other tools also costly. Today, the infrastructure is more affordable and the process faster – so we can do more scanning, in less time, at a lower cost. We charge less than 5 cents to scan a photo – 1 percent of the price in 1990.

Back then, when you charged something to your credit card, the retailer paid about 2 percent of the transaction total to the credit card company. That “interchange fee” covered the cost of processing the transaction records we merchants created by running your credit card through the imprinter (remember your messy carbon copies?). Someone at Visa or MasterCard had to go through all those paper slips and make sure the merchant was paid and the customer was billed. For many the price seemed fair enough, given the convenience.

Today, we slip your card through a device that records your account number electronically and, at the speed of light, sends the credit card company an electronic notice of the purchase. Computers figure it all up, put money in our account (also electronically) and bill you. (If you’re like many people, you pay that bill on-line, another advantage of technology.)

That streamlining of the process must mean that the interchange fee, like the price of our photo scans, also is a tiny fraction of what it was in 1990, right? Wrong! It’s still about 2 percent of the total transaction. Merchants – and in turn customers – still pay the cost of manual processing in a digital world.

Higher processing fees when processing costs are headed the other way isn’t how free markets are supposed to work. But that’s the way this system works because Visa and MasterCard – which control 80 percent of the credit card market – don’t have to negotiate the fees with merchants. Whatever Big Credit says goes.

Card users haven’t complained much because most never heard of the interchange fee. It’s not itemized on your monthly statement – but it is embedded in everything you buy. And we retailers see it every month in our bank records, when Visa or MasterCard keeps that 2 percent.

Today, one study shows, transaction processing consumes only about one-eighth of the interchange fee. The credit card companies rightly use some of the rest for high-tech security measures that protect card holders from identity theft and the card issuers themselves from customers who don’t pay. But those costs also are relatively small.

Much of the current interchange fee goes for things customers and merchants probably don’t find essential. Visa and MasterCard spend lavishly on advertising and junk mail, enticing us to use plastic even more often (and, in turn, hand over more interchange fees!).

To cover the interchange fee, the average American family pays more than $400 annually in additional costs for goods and services.

Regulators in Europe and Australia long ago saw the unfairness of this and demanded that credit card issuers roll back interchange fees. Today, Congress has a chance to slash the hidden tax on credit cards.

The Credit Card Fair Fee Act is supported by a number of both Republicans and Democrats on Capitol Hill. It would end the current practice under Visa and MasterCard, and the banks issuing their cards, dictate the interchange fee to retailers. From now on, retailers would negotiate fees with the credit card industry (primarily via retailer associations and trade groups).

The Credit Card Fair Fee Act won’t be enacted, however, unless the millions of Americans who use those cards demand an end to this hidden tax. The credit card lobby in Washington is strong. The millions who pay the tax must speak up and demand an end to the outrageously high tax on credit card purchases.

Commentary by Mitch Goldstone, president and CEO ScanMyPhotos.com and editor of WayTooHigh.com - The Credit Card Interchange Report