Sammy Tran articles

Nice elderly lady in glasses holding individual income tax return form and smiling while sitting at the table with laptop

Changing Social Security Rules In 2026 Could Take Some Americans By Surprise

Social Security changes in 2026 include a 2.8% COLA, higher earnings limits, updated wage caps, and tougher overpayment rules. Here is what retirees must know to avoid costly benefit surprises.
February 20, 2026 Sammy Tran

I got a notice for unpaid electric bills even though my rent has always included utilities. My new landlord doesn’t return my calls. What can I do?

If your lease agreement states that utilities are included in rent, any extra utility bills are cause for immediate action.
February 20, 2026 Sammy Tran

My husband is filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Our finances are separate but we live in a community property state. What does this mean for my finances?

Bankruptcy is stressful, and it gets even more complicated when one spouse declares bankruptcy within a marriage.
February 13, 2026 Sammy Tran

I left a good paying job to accept a great new offer. Then my new employer shut down after only a week. What can I do?

If you take a good job offer and the new organization shuts down after a week, you'll need to act quickly to get back on track.
February 5, 2026 Sammy Tran

I worked 12 extra hours last weekend. Now my boss is telling me to take two weekdays off to avoid paying me overtime. Can he do this?

Once you've worked overtime hours, your employer can't rearrange your schedule to retroactively deny paying you the overtime rate.
January 29, 2026 Sammy Tran

My landlord just died and now his relatives are demanding that I pay $5K property tax for the house. I only rent the basement suite. What do I do?

If your landlord passes away, his/her heirs aren't able to change the terms of your lease agreement.
January 22, 2026 Sammy Tran

My aunt said she was leaving everything to her nieces and nephews. She died a month ago. When should I expect to hear about getting my inheritance?

If you are eagerly anticipating an inheritance from a loved one's will, it's best to be aware of the methodical timeline of the probate process.
January 15, 2026 Sammy Tran

My elderly mom’s basement tenant told neighbors he owns her house. He’s made unauthorized changes to the suite. Should I be concerned?

When a tenant begins telling neighbors that he is the building owner, the real owner needs to step in and set the record straight to prevent confusion.
January 7, 2026 Sammy Tran

My online order arrived a month late with the wrong items. The items I wanted are out of stock and they’re only offering store credit. What can I do?

Your online order arrived late with the wrong items. The store is out of the items you wanted and is only offering a store credit. We look at how to tackle this challenge.
December 29, 2025 Sammy Tran