Jane O'Shea articles

older couple sharing finances, surprised

My spouse and I kept separate finances for decades, and now we're facing unexpected complications from merging. How do we make this work?

Financial experts consistently say there is no universal formula for married couples. Some fully combine everything, others keep separate accounts, and many choose a hybrid system with both joint and individual accounts. The best approach is the one that supports your shared goals while respecting each partner's comfort level.
July 16, 2026 Jane O'Shea

I refused to lend my son $1000 to the end of next week, so he went and took out a payday loan instead. Did I make a mistake?

Setting boundaries for lending to family members is important, but what it they resort to high-interest payday loans instead?
May 25, 2026 Jane O'Shea

I inherited $20,000 from my grandma. Then I got notice from a collection agency about a medical debt from 15 years ago. Can they force me to pay?

Medical debts typically expire after a few years, but that doesn't mean collections agencies won't try to track you down.
May 15, 2026 Jane O'Shea

We just listed our house for sale last week. Now the guy down the street is listing his house for the exact same price as ours. What should we do?

What happens when you and your neighbor are both trying to sell your homes at the same time for the exact same price?
May 8, 2026 Jane O'Shea

I left my job months ago, but my replacement is still frequently calling me for help. How do I end this without burning bridges?

You've been in your current job for months but your replacement in your old job is still calling you for help and advice.
April 30, 2026 Jane O'Shea

I went to update my LinkedIn account and discovered that all my information and contacts have been erased. What can I do?

What to do if your LinkedIn account is restricted or deleted without your knowledge.
April 22, 2026 Jane O'Shea

I brought in my own office chair because the one the company gave me was bad for my back. They told me I had to get rid of it. What can I do?

Your company issued you an office chair, but may object if you try to provide your own. We look at why, and what you can do.
April 15, 2026 Jane O'Shea

My apartment managers refuse to take cash or checks for rent, and all the available payment methods carry extra fees. Can they really do this?

If your landlord doesn't take cash or checks for rent payments, but doesn't offer fee-free payment methods, you need to take action.
April 8, 2026 Jane O'Shea