Finance Tips

Finance Tips



My daughter asked me to pay her first month's rent in a new rental. Now she's moving out because it's "unsuitable." Can I get my money back?

We all want to help our children out when we can, no matter how old they are. For some parents, that means putting up the first month's rent in their new apartment, or their damage deposit. But what happens if your kid flakes on an apartment that you've put up your hard-earned money for? What recourse do you have? Let's explore your options.
July 29, 2025 Jack Hawkins

My best friend keeps Venmo-requesting me for “shared” expenses I never agreed to. How do I set a boundary without losing the friendship?

Blowing up someone's phone isn't cool at the best of times; it's even less cool to do with Venmo requests for "shared expenses." If you have a friend that's constantly sending you Venmo requests for things that you didn't consent to buy, that's not friendship—that's financial abuse.
July 28, 2025 Jack Hawkins

I took out a secret personal loan to cover our wedding costs. My partner still doesn’t know. How do I come clean?

Paying for a wedding is an incredibly stressful experience. Even if you've got the support of family members, you could still end up paying an arm and a leg for your fairy tale day. If you've found yourself and taken the disastrous decision to take out a personal loan to pay for your wedding—without telling your partner... Well, this article might be for you. Let's explore how to have that conversation and what to do to fix your mistake.
July 27, 2025 Jack Hawkins
Tenant Intfbog

I let a friend stay in our rental. They stopped paying and won't leave. What now?

Letting a friend stay in your rental might feel generous at first—but if they stop paying and won’t leave, it becomes a legal and emotional dilemma. Whether they were a tenant or just a guest, this guide walks you through how to handle the situation calmly and legally.
July 26, 2025 J. Clarke
Cosign Intfbog

My brother made me co-sign a loan and stopped paying. Now collectors are coming after me. Can I get out of this?

Co-signing a loan for a family member might seem like a helpful move, but if they stop paying, you’re on the hook. Collectors can legally pursue you, and your credit and finances could suffer. Here's what to know—and how to protect yourself—if that happens.
July 25, 2025 J. Clarke

Old Computers and Consoles That Are Worth Serious Cash

From clunky home computers of the ’70s to quirky game consoles from the ’90s, vintage tech has become one of the most surprising investment trends of the decade. Whether collecting out of nostalgia or hunting down rare gems to flip for profit, here's a list of retro consoles and computers—ranked from the modestly valuable to the jaw-droppingly pricey—that could make you rich if you still have one tucked away.
July 22, 2025 Jack Hawkins
Forgery Intfbog

My daughter forged checks from my account to pay for her wedding. She says she’ll “pay me back.” Can I press charges?

Losing money is hard—but it’s especially painful when a family member is responsible. If a loved one forges a check in your name and takes your funds, you have legal rights and multiple options to recover your losses.
July 22, 2025 J. Clarke

My in-laws offered to pay off our student loans—but now they act like they own us. How do we break free?

Your in-laws have offered to pay off your and your spouse's remaining student loan debt. Hurrah! You're finally debt-free! That's a good thing, right? Well, yes, that's a fantastic thing—were it not for the attached strings of their overbearing decision-making for you and a general feeling like they own you.
July 21, 2025 Jack Hawkins

My mom uses my social security number for credit cards. I’m 23 and can’t qualify for anything. Help?

Finding out that your own parent used your identity to open credit cards can be devastating. It’s a betrayal of trust—but more than that, it can leave your credit, your future, and your sense of security in ruins. If you’re in this situation, here are the steps you need to take—each one critical to reclaiming your identity and your financial freedom.
July 21, 2025 J. Clarke

My ex put me on his health insurance. Now he wants me to pay half the premium even though we’ve broken up. Am I legally obligated?

After a breakup, one partner may remain on the other’s health insurance. If your ex is asking you to pay half the premium, are you legally obligated? This common situation raises questions about financial responsibility, enforceability, and boundaries. Let’s explore the legal facts, practical steps, and key points you need to consider moving forward.
July 18, 2025 Jack Hawkins

I just got offered my dream job, but it pays $25K less than I make now. Can I afford to take it?

You just received an offer for the job you’ve always wanted. It aligns with your passion, values, and goals—but there’s one catch: it pays $25,000 less than your current role. Should you take it? Here's a step-by-step guide to help you evaluate this life-changing decision and make a financially sound and personally fulfilling choice.
July 18, 2025 Jack Hawkins

I just got a $40,000 inheritance. Should I pay off my student loans, invest it, or keep it as an emergency fund?

Imagine you're broke, struggling to make ends meet and then suddenly, a distant relative passes away and you're left with a $40,000 inheritance in your name. You have student loans still, a car loan and many other payments. Do you pay those off first? Or put it all in the bank as an emergency fund? Let's explore your options when presented with a unique opportunity to set yourself up for life.
July 17, 2025 Jack Hawkins