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	<title>Money Facts Weekly</title>
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	<link>http://moneyfactsweekly.com</link>
	<description>Helping you keep your finances in shape</description>
	<pubDate>Wed, 03 Dec 2008 08:27:40 +0000</pubDate>
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		<title>How to Eliminate Credit Card Debt</title>
		<link>http://moneyfactsweekly.com/finance/how-to-eliminate-credit-card-debt-1128/</link>
		<comments>http://moneyfactsweekly.com/finance/how-to-eliminate-credit-card-debt-1128/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 03 Dec 2008 08:27:40 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ada Denis</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Finance]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[There is almost nothing more serious than having too much debt to pay each month. Consumers get debt for many unusual reasons out. Sometimes illness, accidents, or just bad fate can make it appear impossible to find finances under hold. Other times it is simply because we expend more money than we gain. The first step toward taking control of your financial position is to learn how to get rid of your credit card debt.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style='italic;' class='byline'>by Ada Denis</div>
<p>There is almost nothing more serious than having too much debt to pay each month. Consumers get debt for many unusual reasons out. Sometimes illness, accidents, or just bad fate can make it appear impossible to find finances under hold. Other times it is simply because we expend more money than we gain. The first step toward taking control of your financial position is to learn how to get rid of your credit card debt.</p>
<p>Uprise a budget. Start Out by naming all beginnings of income. First list fixed disbursements such as mortgage payments, insurance policy premiums, and auto lends. Following, list the expenses that deviate from month to month such as supplemental bills, recreation and clothing. If there is any hope of holding your credit card debt you must create and stick to a budget.</p>
<p>There are diverse kinds of debts. Mortgages and auto loans are debts assured by collateral. In the event of default on on a secured debt, a lender may forbid on your home or repossess your car. Unlocked debts are loans with no collateral and oftentimes have variable interest rates and are appraised a fee for late payments. In the event of default on an unsafe debt a lender may report to a credit-reporting agency, contact the debtor repeatedly by mail or telephone, and in average make life tough for those who find themselves in financial inconvenience.</p>
<p>If you are among the millions who have found themselves in a fiscal crisis, deal your options - budgeting, debt consolidation, or bankruptcy. Which works best for you? It calculates on your level of self-discipline, how much debt you have, and your forthcoming financial expectations. While eliminating debt may seem next to unattainable, your life does not have to go from bad to poorer.</p>
<p>Self-help may be the easiest, meanest way to carry off debt. First, stop charging now. Getting more debt will only compound the problem. Make a list of all your credit card bills starting with the closest. Pay as much preceding the minimum payment as you can give on the card with the lowest balance. Remain until this debt is paid in full, and then proceed to the next card. Systematically paying off your credit cards one by one will edit out your debts dramatically. The quickest way to reject credit card debt is to put every penny you can towards getting off your credit cards. Do not underestimate the set up an extra five or ten dollars paid repeatedly over time can have on eliminating debt.</p>
<p>You may be able to reduce the amount of your blended monthly payments and smaller the interest rate by getting a home fairness line of credit or a second mortgage. Believe carefully before taking this route. Your home becomes collateral with these lends. If you make late payments or miss payments you could drop off your home. These types of loans may allow for certain tax rewards but the fees can truly add up. The same goes for debt consolidation. You obviate or reduce interest rates and the amount of your monthly payments, but the duration of the contract and the fees can be more than your fresh debt.</p>
<p>As a last resort hotel, bankruptcy could be thought. A bankruptcy stays on your credit report for 10 years, making it rough to obtain credit, get life insurance policy, or buy a home. However, it can be a new start for those who cannot otherwise fulfill their debts.</p>
<div class='resource'>
<div style='italic;' class='about'>About the Author:</div>
<div class='links'><a href="http://finance-genie.blogspot.com">Stock Investment Guide</a> <a href="http://finance-genie.blogspot.com/2008/11/auto-finance.html">Auto Finance</a></div>
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		<title>Review of Visitor Travel Insurance</title>
		<link>http://moneyfactsweekly.com/insurance/review-of-visitor-travel-insurance-1127/</link>
		<comments>http://moneyfactsweekly.com/insurance/review-of-visitor-travel-insurance-1127/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 03 Dec 2008 08:16:14 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ray Sondeo</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Insurance]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Many travelers aren't aware of <a href="http://www.ivisitorinsurance.com/">visitors insurance</a> and its many benefits.  Visitor insurance can cover many important expenses such as hospital stays and prescription medications.  When travelers visit a foreign country, they are sometimes surprised by the cost of seeking and receiving medical care.  Coverage from visitors health insurance plans provides these and many other benefits to traveling foreigners.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style='italic;' class='byline'>by Ray Sondeo</div>
<p>Many travelers aren&#8217;t aware of <a href="http://www.ivisitorinsurance.com/">visitor travel insurance</a> and its many benefits.  Visitor insurance can cover many important expenses such as hospital stays and prescription medications.  When travelers visit a foreign country, they are sometimes surprised by the cost of seeking and receiving medical care.  Coverage from visitors health insurance plans provides these and many other benefits to traveling foreigners.</p>
<p>Travelers often do not anticipate a need for health coverage when visiting other nations and, therefore, do not bother with obtaining visitors insurance. Travelers who do get the policies benefit from a great deal of peace of mind.</p>
<p>Customers are able to choose a comfortable deductible in visitor health insurance plans.  Different plans offer different levels of coverage, but the types of coverage are typically the same throughout all policies.</p>
<p>Visitors insurance policies are available that cover every foreseeable option, including dental problems, unexpected illnesses brought on by climate or food and so forth. Every visitor should carry this coverage. A vacation might go exactly as planned or go awry in some expected way, insurance helps in the latter case.</p>
<p>Additional benefits may be necessary if one is travelling to a less stable area of the world. Coverage for terrorism, for example, can be included in one&#8217;s plan. Medical evacuation is another occurrence which may prove to be both unexpected and expensive. Having visitors insurance can truly put one&#8217;s mind at ease when traveling abroad.</p>
<p>For those possessed of a truly adventurous spirit, visitors insurance can be obtained that covers sports injuries and even theft, a threat to those who travel in certain nations. Accidental death is also able to be covered. For those with particular needs, visitors insurance is highly flexible.</p>
<p>Regardless of how many times one has been to a country or how safe they feel they will be, insurance for visitors is an important part of any trip. In many cases, host families will purchase insurance for a visiting relative. This is a great way to protect loved ones.</p>
<p>No one enjoys pondering the worst case scenario, but preparation is a priceless task.  Having an emergency situation arise without coverage in place is never a good situation in foreign countries.  <a href="http://www.nriol.net/">visitor insurance</a> protects travelers through coverage for financial and life-saving protection.</p>
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		<title>A Loan Is a Type of Debt</title>
		<link>http://moneyfactsweekly.com/finance/a-loan-is-a-type-of-debt-1126/</link>
		<comments>http://moneyfactsweekly.com/finance/a-loan-is-a-type-of-debt-1126/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 02 Dec 2008 09:09:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Mike Frosters</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Finance]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[In modern times, it is almost impossible to stay out of debt,this problem is sometimes caused by outside pressures. When this happens, it doesn't actually mean that it was done with intent. When a borrower has a poor credit history it's not the end of the world; there are still many companies who will provide bad credit loans for people in need of financial help. It's not the end of the world even if you have a poor credit scoreas bad credit loans can be provided by online companies.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style='italic;' class='byline'>by Keith BL Mallinson</div>
<p>In modern times, it is almost impossible to stay out of debt,this problem is sometimes caused by outside pressures. When this happens, it doesn&#8217;t actually mean that it was done with intent. When a borrower has a poor credit history it&#8217;s not the end of the world; there are still many companies who will provide bad credit loans for people in need of financial help. It&#8217;s not the end of the world even if you have a poor credit scoreas bad credit loans can be provided by online companies.</p>
<p>Finance provided in this way is can be used by the applicant in the same way as a personal loan, they shouldn&#8217;t find any restrictions. If a person is accepted for a loan then there is a good chance they may help their credit rating.</p>
<p>These bad credit loans may be used for other situations and not necessarily debts, so it could be used for an emergency expense that has arisen like medical fees not covered by insurance or a wedding for example. They use a loan that they can pay regularly, as a means to achieve this.</p>
<p>It also has a greater repayment period up to twenty five years. Through the unsecured loan method, an amount in the range of 2,000 to 50,000 dollars is available for borrowing but this sum has to be paid back in a period of 6 months to 10 years.</p>
<p>The risk of defaulting is much lower with a secured loan as the finance company take a charge on your property which is also the reason they can arrange the loan at a preferential rate of interest. But for an unsecured loan, the borrower is charged a higher rate of interest because there is no guarantee that the loan will be repaid.</p>
<p>It will probably be necessary to carry out some research online first. Loans arranged when court judgments are in force are harder to find, especially if you have special needs such as extending the period of the loan for example, so applications will need to be carried out online.</p>
<p>The good thing about bad credit loans is that you will probably still be able to fulfil your financial obligations without the poor credit score getting in the way. By making the loan application online it will speed up the process so you will be able to get back on with your life.</p>
<p>This opportunity should not be forgotten or wasted.</p>
<div class='resource'>
<div style='italic;' class='about'>About the Author:</div>
<div class='links'>To get all the latest tips, tricks, and tactics about <a href="http://www.loan-int.com">car loan</a>, be sure to visit us at <a href="http://www.loan-int.com">credit loan</a></div>
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		<title>How Profitable Are Series Ee Bonds</title>
		<link>http://moneyfactsweekly.com/saving/how-profitable-are-series-ee-bonds-1125/</link>
		<comments>http://moneyfactsweekly.com/saving/how-profitable-are-series-ee-bonds-1125/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 02 Dec 2008 09:04:34 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Fredrick Taylor</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Saving]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://moneyfactsweekly.com/saving/how-profitable-are-series-ee-bonds-1125/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When the stock market is bad, more people seek refuge in safe investments such as in the excellent series EE bonds. Series EE bonds are US savings bonds that are considered default-risk free. They are low risk savings that pay interest for up to 30 years.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style='italic;' class='byline'>by Fredrick Taylor</div>
<p>When the stock market is bad, more people seek refuge in safe investments such as in the excellent series EE bonds. Series EE bonds are US savings bonds that are considered default-risk free. They are low risk savings that pay interest for up to 30 years.</p>
<p>Like most bonds, series EE bonds pay interests. However, the interest rate of series EE bonds are very low compared to other fixed income investments. An example of what the interest rate on series EE bonds is 1.4% fixed rate paid in 2008. Fixed interest rates apply for series EE bonds purchased in May 2005 and after. Before that, series EE bonds paid interests based on current market rates.</p>
<p>Buying series EE bonds is easy. The US Treasury Department has made it possible to buy them online through a governmental website. However, you can still buy series EE bonds at your local financial institutions or banks. Many employers also offer the option of buying series EE bonds through payroll deduction programs.</p>
<p>The smallest amount of money you need to invest in series EE bonds at a time is $25. If you buy paper series EE bonds, your $25 will buy a $50 series EE bond. However, if you buy electronic series EE bonds, your $25 will only buy a $25 series EE bond.</p>
<p>While paper series EE bonds are sold at 50% of their face value, electronic series EE bonds are sold at the full face value. That means, to buy series EE bonds online, you pay $50 for a $50 series EE bond whereas you only pay $25 for a $50 series EE bond certificate.</p>
<p>Bonds are often long term investments. Series EE bonds must be held for at least a year before cashing out. The interest on series EE bonds accumulate for 30 years. The longer you hold series EE bonds, the more interests and value at redemption.</p>
<p>If you redeem series EE bonds before 5 years after purchase, there is an interest penalty. The interest penalty for early redemption of series EE bonds is the most recent interest payments for 3 months. If you redeem series EE bonds after 5 years, there is no penalty.</p>
<p>Since series EE bonds are guaranteed by the US government, they are considered one of the safest investments around. People buy series EE bonds for many reasons, not just for investments but also for education funding as well as retirement funding. Best of all, Series EE bonds come in many different denominations and are extremely flexible for your budget.</p>
<div class='resource'>
<div style='italic;' class='about'>About the Author:</div>
<div class='links'>Interested in learning more about Savings Bonds issued by the USA, or specifically the <a href="http://us-savings-bonds.info/USSavingsBonds/series-ee-bonds.html">Series EE Bonds</a>? Visit us at the <a href="http://us-savings-bonds.info">US Savings Bonds</a> resource site today for additional resources and information.</div>
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		<title>Dental Insurance - Guidelines For Choosing One</title>
		<link>http://moneyfactsweekly.com/insurance/dental-insurance-guidelines-for-choosing-one-1124/</link>
		<comments>http://moneyfactsweekly.com/insurance/dental-insurance-guidelines-for-choosing-one-1124/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 01 Dec 2008 08:12:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>KW Kingston</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Insurance]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[With the rising prices of just about everything nowadays, it's really a wise decision to prioritize the things that are more essential and consider which things you can do without. One example is whether you need to purchase a dental insurance plan or not. Either you get one on your own or as a benefit from your company, its important to consult the following pointers before signing on the dotted line.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style='italic;' class='byline'>by Carmen Jenkins</div>
<p>With the rising prices of just about everything nowadays, it&#8217;s really a wise decision to prioritize the things that are more essential and consider which things you can do without. One example is whether you need to purchase a dental insurance plan or not. Either you get one on your own or as a benefit from your company, its important to consult the following pointers before signing on the dotted line. </p>
<p>Affordability and Yearly Maximum</p>
<p>The yearly maximum is the at most amount that the dental insurance plan is willing to pay during the whole year which automatically renews the next year, but if you have unused benefits, those wont carry over.</p>
<p>In/Out of Network Dentists</p>
<p>Most independent insurance plans have what is called an In-Network Dentist, to whose services only they require you to acquire in order for the company to pay for your dental fees. ON the other hand, if you like to stay with your current dentist, try to ask if the plan supports an option for you to choose your own Out of Network dentist, which mostly companies pay only a portion of the dental fees and you would have to pay the extra for the excess of the bill.</p>
<p>UCR (Usual Customary and Reasonable)</p>
<p>Companies always use a Usual, Customary and Reasonable (UCR) fee guide. This means that they set their own price that they agree to pay for every dental procedure they will cover, most of the time it is based on their own decision and not on what the dentist charges.</p>
<p>If ever you chose to go to a participating provider, you should not be charged the extra for the dentist&#8217;s regular price. This is because generally the company and the participating dentist have an agreement to write off the difference of the two prices. If you prefer choosing the dentist of your own, try to check the insurance&#8217;s UCR fee guide. You may have to pay the difference out of your own pocket.</p>
<p>The Coverage Types</p>
<p>Most insurance companies break dental procedures into three categories:</p>
<p>1. Preventative</p>
<p>Routine cleaning and examinations, but sometimes X-rays, sealants and fluoride belong to the preventive dental care but can also be considered as basic depending on the specific insurance carrier.</p>
<p>2. Basic or Restorative</p>
<p>Most companies include fillings and simple extractions as basic or restorative dental treatment. Although root canals can sometimes be considered as basic or major, the majority of dental plans list root canals as basic.</p>
<p>3. Major</p>
<p>Crowns, bridges, dentures, partials, surgical extractions and dental implants are considered as a major procedure by most dental insurance companies.</p>
<p>Note that some insurance plans don&#8217;t cover major procedures; others still, have waiting periods for certain procedures. That is why it&#8217;s very important to clarify which dental procedures fall under which category. If you know you will need a major dental work and that procedure is not covered by a certain plan, try to find another that best suits your needs.</p>
<p>Dental Insurance Waiting Periods</p>
<p>Waiting periods refer to the length of time the company will make you wait since you were covered, before they will pay for certain procedures. For instance, if you need a crown and the policy has a certain waiting period, it is more likely that you could&#8217;ve already paid for your crown on your own while waiting.</p>
<p>Missing Tooth Clause and Replacement Period</p>
<p>Dental insurance policies commonly carry a &#8220;missing tooth clause&#8221; or a &#8220;replacement clause.&#8221; A missing tooth clause means replacements of a tooth that was missing before the policy has taken effect in not covered by the insurance company. Similarly a replacement clause protects the company from paying for replacement procedures with the exception of a specified time limit.</p>
<p>Cosmetic Dentistry and Dental Insurance</p>
<p>Cosmetic dentistry procedures like teeth whitening, veneers, and lumineers are done mostly for the sake of vanity. While they look great, almost all insurance companies won&#8217;t pay for them.</p>
<p>Comprehensive Coverage</p>
<p>Before you decide on purchasing a dental insurance, talk to your dentist first. He will help you decide if purchasing a dental insurance would be the best option for you. After all, a dental insurance is not at all similar to a medical insurance. It is only intended for covering the most basic dental care needs and does not provide a comprehensive coverage like that of a medical insurance.</p>
<p>Dental Insurance Summary</p>
<p>Many dental offices are now offering zero-interest plans to help you with your finances on covering for your dental health because they know that dental insurances only cover small portion.</p>
<div class='resource'>
<div style='italic;' class='about'>About the Author:</div>
<div class='links'>First Class <a href="http://dentalinsurancecorner.com">Dental Insurance</a> Reviews</div>
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		<title>Getting Out of Debt Now and Improve Your Credit Rating</title>
		<link>http://moneyfactsweekly.com/debt/getting-out-of-debt-now-and-improve-your-credit-rating-1123/</link>
		<comments>http://moneyfactsweekly.com/debt/getting-out-of-debt-now-and-improve-your-credit-rating-1123/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 01 Dec 2008 08:06:26 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Gary Antosh</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Debt]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://moneyfactsweekly.com/debt/getting-out-of-debt-now-and-improve-your-credit-rating-1123/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Debt is often one of the largest expenses people may have. Paying off a debt should always be of a higher priority than savings and investments. It makes perfect sense that reducing debt quickly will result in a better return to consumers than putting savings into a money market account or into shares whilst still retaining that debt.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style='italic;' class='byline'>by Eric Jilson</div>
<p>Debt is often one of the largest expenses people may have. Paying off a debt should always be of a higher priority than savings and investments. It makes perfect sense that reducing debt quickly will result in a better return to consumers than putting savings into a money market account or into shares whilst still retaining that debt.</p>
<p>The best way to deal with debt is to choose a strategy that you can maintain.</p>
<p>Investing in debt</p>
<p>Q: Increasing debt is a growing problem for consumers in our country. Is it then better to pay off the debt or to place the money into savings?</p>
<p>A: It is by far the best strategy to pay off high-rate debt, particularly credit card debt where the interest rates are quite high. Your best strategy is to pay all you can towards that debt and only use your credit card in emergencies.</p>
<p>There are caveats; it&#8217;s also a good idea to establish a savings habit even whilst you are fighting debt. This may be something as small as placing all your change at the end of each day into a special jar and when the jar is full, putting the contents into a bank account.</p>
<p>If you haven&#8217;t established a retirement plan at work, you may decide to put aside a small amount from your paycheck each month so that you get in the habit of setting aside that money, rather than spending it. If, however, you have a high-rate debt, you should focus on clearing that first, as once that debt is gone you will have more money to place into savings or investments.</p>
<p>One size doesn&#8217;t necessarily fit all</p>
<p>Q: Many people manage to claw their way out of debt, only to fall back in again. Would it be the right thing for some people to cancel their credit cards, even if this may result in credit score implications?</p>
<p>A: It would make sense for those people who find that having the credit card is too much of a temptation to spend. If you find yourself in debt, you have to work out why in order to stay out of it.</p>
<p>Everyone&#8217;s situation is different, therefore there is no &#8220;one size fits all&#8221; solution to this problem. If your debt is a result of an unusual one-off incident eg a car accident, then you may not have problems with a credit card, because the temptation is not the problem. If, however, you find that you are constantly using the cards, spending more than you can really afford, you may need to cancel them. </p>
<p>Expensive credit booster</p>
<p>Q: What credit implications would there be for a person who decides to cancel their cards? For someone with a credit card problem, what would be more damaging: the overuse and late payments of the cards or getting rid of the cards?</p>
<p>A: When I speak to upset consumers, most of them say, &#8220;I don&#8217;t want to damage my credit rating.&#8221; This is interesting, because they may already have a very high level of debt but they avoid seeking help thinking that this may affect their rating. Almost a third of a credit score is based on the level of debt, so their rating is most probably already adversely affected.</p>
<p>Most people don&#8217;t see that - they think that paying the bills on time is an indication of financial responsibility.</p>
<p>Often, the problem is how much it will cost to maintain your credit score, rather than the degree of affect. An example of this is a person who is constantly running up debt, therefore paying high interest rates, or someone who has a high level of debt but does not seek advice from a debt settlement company or credit counselling service will end up paying a great deal in order to  maintain their credit rating. This can sometimes be thousands of dollars once they have paid the interest.</p>
<p>If they choose to deal with the problem, initially their credit rating may be affected, but in the long run their costs will be reduced because their debt has been negated and they can start afresh. Both sides have to be considered: what costs there are in damaging your credit rating and what are the expenses in maintaining your rating if you keep the debt.</p>
<p>The average consumer should pay attention to their credit rating as it affects other things as well as credit card costs. It will affect your mortgage, auto insurance etc, but this is commonly less than what you would be paying in interest.</p>
<p>Getting back on track</p>
<p>Q: You speak about dealing with the problem and putting up with the affect on the credit score to get back on track. Are you referring to bankruptcy? Or is bankruptcy only for the most desperate scenarios in these times?</p>
<p>A: Bankruptcy can be a result, but it doesn&#8217;t have to be. This is where my opinion differs from other consumer advocates - there is more than one way to handle the situation.</p>
<p>In the first instance, if you have the ability to get yourself out of the situation in three years or less, then that is what you should do. If that is not possible, you should speak to someone from a credit counseling agency. There are a number of people who would like to do this but are prevented from doing so because of the expense of the monthly payment on the credit counseling program.</p>
<p>Bankruptcy can sometimes be the appropriate solution. I always try to encourage people with a lot of debt to talk with a bankruptcy attorney. This is confidential, it won&#8217;t damage your credit, it doesn&#8217;t cost anything to talk and it will help you overcome the fear of what will happen if you file.</p>
<p>People think that they&#8217;ll lose everything and that their furniture will be taken away. This doesn&#8217;t automatically happen. Speaking with an attorney will help give a person the correct information for their situation. </p>
<p>Between bankruptcy and credit counseling there is an option of debt settlement. This solution has a bad reputation because of the number of companies in that area who are less than reputable. It can be an option and you can decide whether to do it yourself or hire a company to help you. It may be possible to settle your debts for less than what you owe now, enabling you to work on rebuilding your credit and your financial life.</p>
<p>Debt settlement option</p>
<p>Q: How can you decide whether debt settlement is a good option?</p>
<p>A: Ninety percent of the people I speak to have no desire to file for bankruptcy and will do anything they can to pay their bills. This is where debt settlement will work. There are a number of criteria in choosing the best company. The most important things to keep in mind are that, should the company appear to be pushing you towards debt settlement without considering your circumstances or explaining things to you, or if they indicate that it is an &#8220;easy&#8221; way out - do not stay with them. Whilst debt settlement can be painful, like any other solution (not just a fix it pill), with all its negative and positive aspects, it can be a good option. If you choose to do it yourself, I would recommend Zipdebt.com. It was founded by Charles Phelan, who was originally in the industry and it&#8217;s very, very good.</p>
<p>His program costs nearly $400, so it can be out of reach for many people who are deeply in debt. </p>
<p>My opinion is that it is worth that amount because it goes into a great amount of detail about how debt settlement works, things to avoid, dealing with different types of collection tactics, etc and someone who purchases this will save much more than the cost of the package.</p>
<p>There is a basic program available at $197 &#8212; the more expensive $397 program includes some coaching from Charles and this can be very helpful for consumers who need one-on-one help. You should also remember that the average consumer will pay more than that in fees for a credit counseling program and it is also costs much less than the hiring of a consumer law attorney (although that is sometimes the best option for some people).</p>
<p>Bankruptcy</p>
<p>Q: Is debt settlement considered a lesser credit offense than bankruptcy?</p>
<p>A: To be able to go through debt settlement, your accounts have to go delinquent. There is no way out of that as you can&#8217;t settle if your accounts are current. Creditors do not will allow it, so your credit is going to be temporarily damaged. This is a solution for someone who will not or cannot file for bankruptcy. </p>
<p>Both debt settlement and bankruptcy negatively affect your credit report. Chapter 7 bankruptcy will remain on your report for 10 years and with debt settlement, the collection reports  will remain on your report for seven and a half years from the date you first fell behind on the original debt. If you take two years to pay off the debt settlement then the effect would be about the same.</p>
<p>Whether you are dealing with bankruptcy or debt settlement, once it is completed you can start rebuilding your credit.</p>
<p>Best strategies</p>
<p>Q: You had mentioned that it&#8217;s best to try to pay off as much of the debt as possible. What would you say is the best debt pay-down strategy to follow?</p>
<p>A: You should view reducing debt as a marathon, rather than a sprint, because that is what is the reality for most people.The strategy that is the best for getting out of debt is one that works for you. Remember that everyone&#8217;s situation is different. There are many reasons as to why consumers end up in debt. The idea that a solution is to just &#8220;spend less, save more&#8221; can be misleading and frustrating for those who have run into medical debt or those who have done everything by the book for 20 years and then have to leave the workforce in order to care for an aging parent. For everyone it&#8217;s different. So I encourage people to find the approach that suits them best.</p>
<p>If one program or strategy doesn&#8217;t seem to be working for you, try another one. If you feel that you need some support, choose the coach, class or group that&#8217;s going to work for you. Examples of these include Debtor&#8217;s Anonymous, going to Dave Ramsey&#8217;s class at your church or an online support group.</p>
<p>Remember that we are all different and don&#8217;t become discouraged if the first option doesn&#8217;t seem to be working. Look to others who have been successful, examine what they&#8217;ve done and find the way that works for you.</p>
<p>Staying out of trouble</p>
<p>Q: How can we as consumers avoid debt problems in the first instance?</p>
<p>A: The most important thing to do is to build a back up reserve in your finances.  Also, if you are keeping an old Visa credit card you may request for a balance transfer to your mostly-used card from the issuer with 0% interest; this will mean more available balance for you in your new card. For when things go wrong because inevitably a challenge will happen to everyone. Buy the smallest, least expensive house that you will be comfortable in.</p>
<p>The biggest pitfall for most people (I&#8217;ve done it too!) is taking on debt based on where we currently are financially or where we think we&#8217;re going, then realizing for whatever reason that we can&#8217;t follow through.</p>
<p>An example of this is you get the big car payment based on the job you have now, but then a year later you no longer have the job but you still have the car and the repayments. Many  people are going through the same problem with houses right now. They bought the house based on where they were economically at that time; the interest rate has changed, taxes have gone up, the value of the house is reduced etc and the debt is no longer affordable.</p>
<p>Every day we are faced with the pressure to spend, spend, spend. It&#8217;s very difficult to go against that tide and to try to live and save more for the future than for today. This trap is a common one and it is not easy to get out of.</p>
<p>For most of us, debt is something we must take on if we are to buy a car or a house - it cannot be avoided. But we should be careful that we don&#8217;t find ourselves in a situation that is impossible to get out of. When you lose money in the stock market, that can be difficult, but if you cannot sell your house and have to endure a foreclosure, that is something else.</p>
<p>Getting help</p>
<p>Q: What would you like to leave our readers with?</p>
<p>A: Debt is very stressful, isolating and very scary. If you find yourself in that situation, don&#8217;t try to do it all on your own. Don&#8217;t be scared to ask for help, whether this is talking to an attorney, a counseling agency or someone you trust. It&#8217;s very difficult and you need someone to encourage and motivate you.</p>
<div class='resource'>
<div style='italic;' class='about'>About the Author:</div>
<div class='links'>Learn more about <a href="http://www.everlife.com/balancetransfercard.php">0% interest visa balance transfer</a> today!</div>
</div>
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		<title>How to Easily Reduce Your Utility Bill by 20%</title>
		<link>http://moneyfactsweekly.com/finance/how-to-easily-reduce-your-utility-bill-by-20-1122/</link>
		<comments>http://moneyfactsweekly.com/finance/how-to-easily-reduce-your-utility-bill-by-20-1122/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 30 Nov 2008 08:09:38 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jenni Snook</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Finance]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://moneyfactsweekly.com/finance/how-to-easily-reduce-your-utility-bill-by-20-1122/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Receiving our gas and electrical bills is certainly not the most pleasant experience. Despite not receiving a pleasant bill, many people quickly assume that there's nothing they can do to help it. In reality, there is a lot families can do to significantly reduce both their energy consumption and their utility bills. All this is possible by following the tips in this article.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style='italic;' class='byline'>by Jenni Snook</div>
<p>Receiving our gas and electrical bills is certainly not the most pleasant experience. Despite not receiving a pleasant bill, many people quickly assume that there&#8217;s nothing they can do to help it. In reality, there is a lot families can do to significantly reduce both their energy consumption and their utility bills. All this is possible by following the tips in this article.</p>
<p>One of the first things you should do is to simply compare the prices offered by different utility companies. Cheaper alternatives may be found by just looking. Utility companies are in fierce competition with rivals, which can only be a win-win situation for you and saving money.</p>
<p>It&#8217;s possible that you may be living in an area where there is only one utility company. It&#8217;s also possible that your utility company is already the most economical one. If this reflects your situation, then your next step to save money should be to reduce your energy consumption. This may seem impossible but it isn&#8217;t. Even by applying very simple energy saving techniques, you can accumulate quite a large amount of savings. </p>
<p>One energy and money saving tip is to switch off all the lights in your home except in the room you are using. Many have a bad habit of leaving lights on in unused rooms. Such a habit can result in higher utility bills in the long run. Saving hundreds of dollars a year can be simple as switching off unnecessary lights at home.</p>
<p>One thing to consider for those who lives in an older home is insulation. Insulation does wonders for cutting down the amount of heat that leaves your home. Insulation can allow your family to save a significant amount of money. If, by chance, you possess a boiler in the household, it would be a good idea to insulate that as well. This helps keep your water warmer, especially during the winter months. This process of insulation assures you savings both on the quantity of water and the heat used to heat it. There is an added benefit of insulation in that it means that your boiler&#8217;s wear and tear will be reduced meaning that that it will last longer.</p>
<p>There are those people who do not consider reducing their energy bill simply because they are convinced that it is out of their control. Nevertheless, it&#8217;s amazing how much of our energy bills can be cut by simply seeking out alternatives. By cutting down on energy, you are saving money as well as helping the environment.</p>
<div class='resource'>
<div style='italic;' class='about'>About the Author:</div>
<div class='links'>Jenni Snook is the premier columnist of http://www.HealthyWealthySoul.com, a website dedicated to giving individuals tips and resources on <a href="http://www.healthywealthysoul.com/">personal finance planning</a> to attain both financial and spiritual happiness in their lives.</div>
</div>
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		<title>Learning to Trade Like a Proi</title>
		<link>http://moneyfactsweekly.com/money/learning-to-trade-like-a-proi-1121/</link>
		<comments>http://moneyfactsweekly.com/money/learning-to-trade-like-a-proi-1121/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 30 Nov 2008 08:08:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Neal Walters</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Money]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://moneyfactsweekly.com/money/learning-to-trade-like-a-proi-1121/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Stock options and the Iron Condor are viable partners that benefit traders. Two vertical spreads, The Bull Put and Bear call have the same expiration. This widely adopted strategy puts them in the same category as many other forms of call spreads. Day traders adopt this technique as it allows for more options in their market]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style='italic;' class='byline'>by Walter Fox</div>
<p>Stock options and the Iron Condor are viable partners that benefit traders. Two vertical spreads, The Bull Put and Bear call have the same expiration. This widely adopted strategy puts them in the same category as many other forms of call spreads. Day traders adopt this technique as it allows for more options in their market</p>
<p>Understanding day trading requires that the trader must be familiar with the terms associated with the Iron Condor. Profit to loss graphs are the definition of the Iron Condor. It is an analogy to its counterpart in animal life. The graph is very similar to a condor with spread wings and very wide. The Iron Condor consists of two parts, the inner options (The condor&#8217;s body) and the outer options(The wings).</p>
<p>The &#8220;Iron&#8221; term originates from the position of the spread. The position is placed across the spot price of the underlying instrument. The underlying instrument consists of one vertical spread below and above the current spot price. Other acondora trading strategies have the same basic shape but these are played differently.</p>
<p>The short and long Iron Condor are two variations in options trading that are demonstrated below. Short Iron&#8217;s approach are buying long options for the inner body. The strikes are called out of the money strikes. While buying long options, the trader is able to sell options for the outer wing as well.</p>
<p>The Long Iron Condor varies as it has a slight difference from the Short Iron Condor. The trader buys options from the outer wings and sells the options to the inner body. A bit of a reversal, however these are also out of the money strikes.</p>
<p>In adopting the Iron Condor, you may reap its positive benefits. A helpful benefit is the Iron condor has the same benefits and margin perquisites  as a single vertical spread. The gains are a potential profit from double net credit premiums.</p>
<p>Another advantage is that further transaction charges can be prevented by letting the options contracts to expire. This is a direct result from the positioning of the spot price of the underlying line being between the inner strikes near the tail of the option contract.</p>
<p>As evident from the great advantages given by using the Iron Condor technique, this trading strategy is commonly used in option trading and taught to students attempting to learn to day trade. While only slightly different from other acondora-type trading techniques, the Iron Condor is significantly more advantageous in advanced situations where the buyer desires multiple options in situations when the trader needs to know how to trade options.</p>
<div class='resource'>
<div style='italic;' class='about'>About the Author:</div>
<div class='links'>TheScienceOfTrading.com provides 90 free minutes of videos on <a href="http://www.thescienceoftrading.com/JoinNow/members/signup.html">option trading systems</a> and provides a complete and detailed <a href="http://www.thescienceoftrading.com/PresellVideos/cms/presellvideos.html">option trading course</a> for beginners to experts.</div>
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		<title>How to Finance Outdoor Home Improvement Projects</title>
		<link>http://moneyfactsweekly.com/finance/how-to-finance-outdoor-home-improvement-projects-1120/</link>
		<comments>http://moneyfactsweekly.com/finance/how-to-finance-outdoor-home-improvement-projects-1120/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 29 Nov 2008 10:22:48 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lauren Thompson</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Finance]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://moneyfactsweekly.com/finance/how-to-finance-outdoor-home-improvement-projects-1120/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[An outdoor home improvement project, such as the addition of a backyard deck or professional landscaping out front, can usually be financed quite easily, since it adds to the value of your home. Whether you are looking to sell your home quickly, or just firm up your long-term investments, obtaining financing for your outdoor projects makes sense.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style='italic;' class='byline'>by Ada Denis</div>
<p>An outdoor home improvement project, such as the addition of a backyard deck or professional landscaping out front, can usually be financed quite easily, since it adds to the value of your home. Whether you are looking to sell your home quickly, or just firm up your long-term investments, obtaining financing for your outdoor projects makes sense.</p>
<p>1. Determine the reasons why you want to finance an outdoor home improvement project. If you are looking to increase the value of your home for a quick sale, you might want to think about installing copper plumbing or a new roof. A financial institution may be more likely to improve this type of loan since the investment will be recouped more quickly as the result of as sale.</p>
<p>2. Determine which outdoor projects increase the value of your home, and which ones don&#8217;t, before you approach a bank or lending institution to finance any home improvement project. For instance, any project that increases the usable square footage of your house, such as the addition of an enclosed patio or a backyard deck, may be quickly approved by a bank. Swimming pools, landscaping and luxury items such as fountains and ponds may not.</p>
<p>3. Ask the financial institution that holds your mortgage to finance outdoor home improvement projects. Your mortgage company already has information about the value of your home, not to mention your credit. In many cases, your mortgage company may be able to fold the additional loan into your monthly house payment as well.</p>
<p>4. Find out about getting a credit card from a large home improvement chain in order to finance your outdoor projects. While the interest rates may be higher than if you secured a loan from a bank or lending institution, in many cases you may be able to get discounts on the price of materials and services.</p>
<p>5. Avoid trendy or elaborate outdoor home improvement projects when you are trying to secure financing. A bank is less likely to approve a loan for a moat or a waterfall. Stick to traditional, classic improvements that will ultimately increase the value of your home, and not shrink the number of prospective buyers down the road.</p>
<div class='resource'>
<div style='italic;' class='about'>About the Author:</div>
<div class='links'><a href="http://online-finance-guru.blogspot.com">Finance Ideas</a> <a href="http://online-finance-guru.blogspot.com/2008/10/debt-consolidation-finance-free-from.html">Debt Consolidation Finance: Free from Debt in Smoother Way</a></div>
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		<title>Never Get Stuck With Another Deal That You Can&#8217;t Sell!</title>
		<link>http://moneyfactsweekly.com/investing/never-get-stuck-with-another-deal-that-you-cant-sell-1119/</link>
		<comments>http://moneyfactsweekly.com/investing/never-get-stuck-with-another-deal-that-you-cant-sell-1119/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 29 Nov 2008 10:21:57 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jesse Davis</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Investing]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[buying houses]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[cash flow]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[flipping]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[foreclosures]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[income]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[investment]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[leasing]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[real estate]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[real estate articles]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[real estate tips]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[rehabbing]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[rental]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[selling houses]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://moneyfactsweekly.com/investing/never-get-stuck-with-another-deal-that-you-cant-sell-1119/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Wow, I talk to so many investors who started in Real Estate with the goal of buying and selling houses yet they ended up being landlords and they hated it.  Now I personally love rental houses and own a bunch but listening to these sad stories all the time is what led me to focus solely on finding buyers.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style='italic;' class='byline'>by Jesse Davis</div>
<p>Wow, I talk to so many investors who started in Real Estate with the goal of buying and selling houses yet they ended up being landlords and they hated it.  Now I personally love rental houses and own a bunch but listening to these sad stories all the time is what led me to focus solely on finding buyers.</p>
<p>I had this same experience: I had to get a loan to buy a house I put under contract but could not sell right away.  </p>
<p>Fortunately, I had a mentor who told me to forget everything I have learned about real estate and who taught me a new way of investing - finding out what investors wanted and not what I thought they should have.</p>
<p>Real Estate investing, if you do it full time, is not a hobby that you get in and do on the side like you see on TV where people flip houses and make a bunch of money.  Yes you can do it but the TV shows are dramatized crap that does more harm than good in my opinion.  They make people think they can go out and get a junker property, put a bunch of money in it, and sell it really fast and make a killing.</p>
<p>Well, lets get real. In the real world you will quickly find out that most of the time it does not work like that. You have to really know what is going to sell before you make a big decision to put time and money in the deal.</p>
<p>The only way to do that is to find the buyers and ask them what they want. It is a very easy process if you know how to set up a system that does it automatically. Learn the secret that most the gurus don&#8217;t tell you and that is how to find out what will sell before you buy.</p>
<div class='resource'>
<div style='italic;' class='about'>About the Author:</div>
<div class='links'>The author, Jesse Davis is an experienced wholesaler in the Jackson, Mississippi, Real Estate market. He has wholesaled over 80 properties this year alone, and he teaches a seminar on how to really be successful in today&#8217;s market. Click here <a href="http://www.howtofindthebuyers.com">to learn how to find all the buyers you will ever need to build a massive monthly income in Real Estate today</a></div>
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