Actually I need to counting my blessings, I am blessed to be receiving some money! I am tearing myself up trying to figure out which is the best way to use the money!
Trying to figure out where to go for financial advice. Hope someone might have advice! Considering Suzy Orman, not sure how long that takes, if you get picked!
#1 Maxed out all credit cards paying medical bills. Need to consolidate! --Not sure if I should re-finance house to do this. --Considering debt management co where they work out a deal and you make one payment. --should I do both
#2 Also have more medical bills. same options as #1, but don't have enough equity to wipe out everything.
#3 Current medicine needed over $500/ week self-pay, plus co-pays@ $500/ month.
Not sure how long this level of expense will be! Maybe 4-6 months, but what if longer!!
Already wiped out savings. Not much retirement or Insurance value to borrow from. Think it smart to put some of windfall into savings!
Definately need to manage debt better and get a plan for future! One that we can live with-- live on!!
Anybody have advice, or where to go for advice.
Leary of telling bank/mortgage co whole story, but then it may be better to explain why our credit rating has fallen.
Thanks!! MommaK
Posts: 242 | From Mississippi | Registered: Oct 2006
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I'm giving you a big hug right now because I have been there! I almost lost my house, was in preforeclosure, bills out the wazoo, etc.
It was actually the best thing that happened to me because I swore from that moment on I was going to be proactive about my finances and never be put in a position like that again. Plus, I just hate when people like credit card companies take advantage of people, as they always do.
I don't know how great my advice will be, I'm just sort of thinking out loud. Suze Orman is a wonderful resource in most respects, you may want to get one of her books because she deals so much with people in this situation.
There are certain factors that might affect what dsecisions you make.
For example, what are the interest rates on your credit cards? How much are you paying in interest each month? If you paid off your cards, you would eliminate these monthly expenses.
It might be a very good idea to refinance your house IF this will be financially feasible for you. How much is your house worth? How much equity do you have? What interest rate will you be paying on your new mortgage? Is it less than interest you would be paying on your credit cards? How does it change your monthly expenses? What is the bottom line?
I think Suze says credit card debt has to go away first, so a goal would be looking to pay that off first or at least have a monthly payment plan where you draw down your balances significantly more than just the minimum monthly payment.
So you have to do some serious number crunching and also do a monthly budget to make sure that when the dust settles, you can afford to live and not be playing catch up.
I think if it's a question between putting money in savings you might (I say might because I am no expert) be better off paying your credit cards so you are not paying outrageous credit card interest every month. Savings accounts get such measly interest it might not be worth it although of course it's good to have money for emergencies.
You need to protect your assets, your main one being your home. Make sure that whatever you do, you keep the house (Unless you're so in debt you have to sell it), but a house is such a great wealth builder and an asset you definitely want to hang on to if you can.
Be wary of getting an adjustable rate mortgage or a negative amortization mortgage that adjusts in a few years. Although there are benefits to these, there are pitfalls too if you are not eagle eyed about your finances.
Be wary of debt consolidation companies! There are so many out there that will say hey, look how much we can lower your bills, but they will rip you off. Just be careful! I was absolutley burned by both an unscrupulous mortgage company as well as another debt company.
Just know that often this is a scam for them to make money off of you. There are free, government sponsored credit counseling services that I have used in the past with great success in helping me decide what to do.
Just make sure they are the non profit government ones and not private ones who will again try to sell you on a ridiculous loan. They should just give you info, not sell you a loan package.
MommaK, the wonderful thing here is that you have received some money, which is a great tool for you to rework your finances so that you are in a much better place.
The more attention you pay to your finances the better success you will have. It's important to get your credit rating back up too, because this will factor into any kind of loan you want to get. Fixing your credit score is crucial!
There is a website (that is *not* freecreditreport.com because that is absolutley not free) called annualcreditreport.com, this one will give you all three of your credit scores for free once yearly. It might be a good idea to get those and see if there are any mistakes (there often are).
You can even call yoru credit card companies and ask for a lower rate. This is if you decide that payinig them off is not the best option.
I wish you the best in whatever you do and hope this helps a little!
Take care,
Alison
--------------------
The obscure we see eventually. The completely obvious, it seems, takes longer. --- Edward R. Murrow Posts: 923 | From California | Registered: Aug 2005
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kam
Honored Contributor (10K+ posts)
Member # 3410
posted
Yep. Money is a big factor with lyme.
I am in the process of putting a budget sheet together when I am able.
I got the info from Crown.org
And I started a class at church last week.
Homework this week is to write down everything you spend money on for the month...even the small purchases as they all add up.
Cut up the credit cards which I did not have any at this point in my lyme life.
AS far as credit card debt there are some non profit organizations that may be able to help you.
They do not charge as they are volunteers who have been through the debt deduction themselves.
They too will ask that all credit cards be cut up.
As far as obtaining meds...I am in the process of seeing what I can get via Costco, and other prescription assistant programs.
See Walgreen's post in medical by KAM. Others have added info on.
Ok my brain is going.
Ah yes. I recall going to several financial counselors years ago when I had some money.
The ones I went to did not deal with budgets and were more interested in selling me stocks and other things.
Hoping they have changed.
I had a friend who was a cPA who told me to sell my house in order to go back to school and then purchase another one once I was out of school.
What she did not tell me is I needed to purchase a home within 2 years at a equal price or greater or I would have a big bill owed to the government for profits made on the house.
It was going to take me at least 4 to 6 years to get through school and the money would be gone by then.
Point being..be careful.
WRite Oprah. She has people on her show that help others out with finances, debt, etc. I think Suzy Orman was one of them.
With the elections coming up it would be great to have someone like you on TV regarding health care.
Posts: 15927 | From Became too sick to work or do household chores in 2001. | Registered: Dec 2002
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posted
Great advice from Alison. You may also look into Dave Ramsey and "Financial Peace University."
Posts: 49 | From Holly Springs, NC | Registered: May 2007
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just don
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 1129
posted
here is ONE tip I heard of, After paying off the credit card put it in a tub of water and stick it in the freezer.
make it into a ice cube,,,IF ,,,you have a tendancy to use it too quickly. Then you can always retrieve BUT not too quick.
IF you have any money,,,pay off the highest interest card first,then the next, and the next right on down to the last of your debt!!
Paying minimum monthly payments on a card will lead to paying about 5 times or MORE than what you paid for an item. Another person said last week they are designed to NEVER pay off the balance!!
the ONLY good way of using a card is IF you can pay it off in full each and EVERY month!!With NO interest charges!!yep--just don--
-------------------- just don Posts: 4548 | From Middle of midwest | Registered: May 2001
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Geneal
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 10375
posted
Just a thought.
Can you qualify for any medical assistance for your children like Medicaid.
In Louisiana the cut off for a family of four is 4200.00 a month gross.
The LLMD visits probably won't be covered but their medication probably will be.
Could help with over all costs if you were only paying insurance for
You and your husband.
Due to Katrina I too have lost all savings, and am unable to work
Due to Lyme right now.
I do know this. As bad as things have been for my husband
And myself financially God has never left us without a roof over our heads
And food on the table.
I wish I had better advice.
Sending you hugs.
Geneal
Posts: 6250 | From Louisiana | Registered: Oct 2006
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bettyg
Unregistered
posted
quoting alison....
There is a website (that is *not* freecreditreport.com because that is absolutley not free) called annualcreditreport.com, this one will give you all three of your credit scores for free once yearly. //////////////////////////
It might be a good idea to get those and see if there are any mistakes (there often are).
When you do this, STAGGER the requests, 1 per quarter; NOT ALL 3 FOR SAME QUARTER WITH IDENTICAL INFO!
if you have husband, use the 4th quarter for one of his too so you get 4 quarters a year to see ALL 3 of your credit reports!
************
don, had excellent advise; pay the HIGHEST % FIRST, then work them down.
whatever we buy; we pay OFF MONTHLY so ZERO INTEREST AND ZERO COST FOR A MASTERCARD; NO ANNUAL FEES!
**********
I am going to type an entire post here since it was updated, and I added more info INTO compiled list.
So for those reading this who have seen this before, hit the END key to take you to bottom where someone else may be replying too! thx
Methods of Coping with Financial Burdens... by Melanie Reber http://flash.lymenet.org/ubb/Forum1/HTML/035162.html Methods of Coping with Financial Burdens... Getting to the Doctor: Affording the Medication: Emergency Funds: Gathering your Resources: Know your Expenses: Deduct your Expenses: Paying your Bills: Learn to Budget: Cutting Back: Disability Issues: Other Programs: Home Loans: Bankruptcy: How you can make a difference:
Getting to the Doctor: *************************** 1. Talk to the Doc- Never be hesitant to let your Doctor know your financial circumstances. Chances are that they have ways to help...but you must ask. 2. Local Transportation- Some states offer a local transportation program for persons who are disabled. For more information, call the information/general assistance numbers at your local bus stations, train stations, and airports. In addition, the Metropolitan Transit Authority in many cities offers special buses and other services such as discount fares, "reserve-a-ride programs, or regional ride sharing. Medicaid can also offer free transportation to your doctor's office. For details on available services, check with your local Metropolitan Transit Authority. 3. Share a ride- Chances are that others are heading your way too. Try to find fellow patients of your doctor, and see if carpooling is available. There are also national ride share organizations. www.erideshare.com (Google for others) 4. Greyhound- Buses go just about everywhere for a fraction of the cost of flying or driving yourself. Greyhound offers discounts for the following: children, students, military, veterans, personal care attendants, disabled, and seniors. www.greyhound.com 5. Amtrak- If you are fortunate enough to be near a train, take advantage of that opportunity. Traveling mid-week is less crowded and quieter too. Amtrak offer discounts to children, seniors, veterans, students, military, AAA members, and NARP members. Amtrak has announced that it will add to its system only new cars fitted with special facilities for people with disabilities. I nformation on accessibility of trains and stations and assistance available to passengers who are disabled or elderly may be obtained from an authorized travel agent or by calling Amtrak at 800/USA-RAIL. Travelers with disabilities who have a card or physician's letter showing disability are allowed a 25 percent discount on round trip travel by Amtrak with the exception of certain holidays. Amtrak also has a brochure, Access Amtrak, for travelers with disabilities. To request a copy, write: Amtrak Distribution Center, Itasca, IL 60143.www.amtrak.com 6. Flights for free- http://www.aircareall.org/listings.htm 7. Accommodations-Many Practices have set up accounts with local hotels or motels to offer their patients a reduced rate. Ask your Doctor first, and then call around to find a place that participates. 8. The Ronald McDonald House- Ronald McDonald Houses provide a home-away-from-home for families of seriously ill children who are receiving treatment at nearby hospitals and Doctor Offices. www.rmhc.com 9. Practice smart shopping- It is your responsibility to find out in advance the costs of your Doctor visit, including all testing, initial consultations, phone consultations, follow-up appointments, and insurance reimbursements. By doing the legwork before you make a Doctor decision you will save on time and expenditures. Check referrals carefully. Get quotes. And be sure that all charges are cleared by you in advance. Affording the Medication: ******************************* 1. Generics- In many cases, the generics are just as good as the name brands. Ask your Doctor or Pharmacist if a generic replacement is available. 2. Shop around- Not all businesses are created equally. Taking the time to call around and compare prices may be the most valuable way to spend your time. This is true for prescriptions, supplements, and IV or IM supplies. www.costco.com 3. Consider On-line sources- There are reputable sources for on-line prescription medications and supplements. Be sure to do your homework here. 4. Leftover supplies- No one wants to throw away what they can no longer use. For the cost of postage, you would be surprised how many fellow patients will be more than happy to send their leftover supplies. Ask, and ye shall receive! 5. Free or reduced priced medicines- Many big and generous pharmaceutical companies will provide medications at free or reduced costs. Each company has its own criteria, but you may be surprised by how lenient they are. http://flash.lymenet.org/ubb/Forum1/HTML/004031.html Other sites:
www.benefitscheckup.org www.freemedicineprogram.com www.healthynh.com www.helpingpatients.org www.infuserveamerica.com www.needymeds.com www.needymeds.org www.phrma.org www.pfizerforliving.com www.rxassist.org www.rxforohio.com www.rxhope.com www.themedicineprogram.com www.TogetherRX.com 6. Buy as Needed- If this is a new medication for you, it may benefit you to only purchase a trial amount of this drug to start. One of the worst feelings is having to dispose of unused medication. 7. Do it Yourself- If you are taking IV medications, find out if you can learn how to infuse and change dressings on your own at home. Once the proper techniques are learned, there usually is no need to keep paying a nurse. Of course, if you are unable to do this yourself, find a friend or family member who can accept this responsibility. 8. Tailor your protocol- Speak with your Doctor about prescribing for your income. Perhaps by changing one or two meds, you will be able to afford to keep going. Another option may be to pulse your medication. Your Doctor will know if this is an option for your needs. 9. Free Samples- Many companies will give samples of their products to Doctors to try on patients. If your Doctor has free samples of a medication that you need, he will usually gladly share it with you. Emergency Funds: ************************* 1. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)- This program gives emergency cash assistance to families on a time-limited basis. Some states might use a different name for this temporary funding, so ask. Check the government section of your local phone book under the county HHS (health and human services) office nearest you. Documentation may be required. 2. Locally based organizations- Emergency Assistance is also available from locally based organizations including community action agencies, churches/synagogues, homeless shelters, and domestic violence centers, among others. (It is not always necessary for you to be a member of a church or other house of worship to receive emergency assistance.) 3. Unemployment Insurance (UI)- If you have become unemployed, this insurance will help while you seek another position. It does not apply if you left your position without being terminated. Contact your state unemployment office. 4. Workers' Compensation- This is a type of insurance that many employers are required to have by the federal government. It usually covers injury on the job, but may also cover some occupational diseases. Contact your nearest Worker's Compensation office/ commission. 5. Lifeline and Link-Up: Affordable Telephone Service for Income-Eligible Consumers FCC Consumer FACTS http://www.fcc.gov/cgb/consumerfacts/lllu.html
Gathering your Resources: ******************************* 1. Retirement- You may find yourself having to dip into your retirement accounts. 401K, PERA, 2. Sick Leave- Now is the time to find out exactly what your work offers. Some positions offer a sick bank where you can ``deposit'' unused sick days for future ``withdrawals''. Medical leaves are also an option worth looking into. 3. Borrowing- A rich uncle may not be your only source. If your credit is good, find out about low interest loans. 4. Using Credit- Many credit companies are now offering 0% interest on new accounts for a specified period of time. Be sure to read the fine print. 5. Downsizing- Low income housing is an option in most locations; get on the list now if you can.
Some medical expenses may be deducted from your rent with a letter from your Doctor. Perhaps finding a roommate would suit your needs better. Ask at local churches, universities, and reputable organizations. If public transportation is available, you might consider selling your vehicle. 6. Charitable Organizations- Local churches and other charitable organizations are ready and willing to help. Many offer free rides, food, clothing, counseling, and spiritual support. 7. Affiliations- If you were a member of any organization in your professional life, look into funds here. 8. Liquidating- Sell what you don't need and donate the rest for a tax deduction. Some avenues include EBay, garage sales, second hand stores, antique stores, consignment stores, estate brokers, flea markets, used book stores, sporting equipment stores, music stores, etc. 9. Hidden talents- Can you use your talents to teach lessons or create something for a profit? Can you spare an hour for babysitting or pet sitting? 10. True friends- Your true friends will come running when everyone else is leaving. They want to help, so ask. 11. Family- Can other family members take on a few responsibilities for you? Many families want to help, but just don't know what you need. Children are much more adept than we give them credit for. 12. Senior Services- Seniors are entitled to many discounts and services. Check all local and state patient assistance programs. 13. Support groups- Here you will find others dealing with many of the same situations. Get involved. 14. Women's Resource groups- Sometimes it pays to be female, find out if there is a resource center in your area. 15. Fundraising- Funds can be generated for medical assistance, by enlisting local organizations to help sponsor these events. Walks, runs, movies, garage sales, diners, auctions, concerts, etc., are just a few of the many forms that fundraisers can take. Know your Expenses: ************************** 1. Stop surprise bills- If you are doing your homework, there should be no surprise bills. Take the time to call in advance of any tests to be completed so you will be ready when the bill arrives in the mail. It may pay to shop around here as well, not all places charge the same for the same procedure. There also may be a program in place for needy patients for many expensive tests such as MRIs. Ask to set up a payment plan that will work for you. 2. Find out what your insurance will and will not cover- Call your company in advance to find out what is and isn't covered under your plan. Some testing may be divided over two days in order for insurance to cover the costs. Deduct your Expenses: **************************** 1. Save all receipts- This includes all medical bills, prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, supplies, etc. Remember that eye care, dental, and psychotherapy count also. To qualify for medical deductions for tax purposes your medical expenses need to be at least 7.5% of your income. If you are filing jointly, this would involve medical exp. for your spouse as well as your children. 2. Allow for Travel expenses- Mileage to and from your Doctor, other applicable travel expenses and lodging accommodations can also be deducted, so keep track. 3. Insurance contributions- Employee medical insurance contributions are deductible only if this cost was not paid pre-tax. Paying your Bills: ********************** 1. Utilities- Some utility companies have a needy program; contact your local companies to find out what is available to you. Programs may be based on income or medical needs. There may also be a plan to pay a set fee each month that does not vary throughout the year. This will help budget through the cold winter months or the hot summer months when utilities rise. (see below under Other Programs) 2. Housing- Most lenders will offer a grace period for mortgage payments. Find out what your lender will and will not offer. 3. Medical- Many states offer help with medical payments. Qualifications vary, so be certain to ask. 2. Negotiating- Let your creditors know what is going on. Never ignore your bills. A small token payment is better than none at all. 3. Pay on-line- Many companies will accept payment via the internet; this saves you time and money. 4. Automatic deductions- Many companies will automatically deduct your monthly bill from your checking or savings account, also saving you time and money. Learn to Budget: ********************** 1. Figure out your expenditures- Gather all of your monthly bills, your checkbook, and credit card statements for the last year to begin a list of your expenses. These may include: Housing Gas Water Electric Telephone Internet Service Food
This organization has helped our family grocery budget. http://www.angelfoodministries.com/ $25 per box of food will feed a family of 4 for one week. There are no income requirements to place an order.
Home Insurance Property Taxes Home Repairs Health Insurance Education Car Repairs Gasoline Car Insurance Medical Prescription Clothing Personal Care Loans Entertainment Vacation Gifts 2. Decide what can be put on hold- Never neglect your bills, but find out if you are able to reduce payments temporarily. Try to hold off on all non-essential purchases. Cutting Back: ***************** 1. Start a Garden- For the price of one head of lettuce, you can purchase a dozen packs of seeds. Use your window sill and grow your own...it tastes better and is healthier anyway. 2. The barter system- Trading talents and services is a lost art that many would love to reinitiate. 3. Reduced pleasures- Many schools offer reduced services by experts in training. Look for dental, culinary, massage, healthcare, pet care, and other institutions that offer these services. 4. Free Pleasures- The Freecycle Network� is made up of many individual groups across the globe. It's a grassroots movement of people who are giving (& getting) stuff for free in their own towns. www.freecycle.org Just because you are struggling now, don't deprive yourself of the available activities that can be enjoyed at no cost. Utilize your local library for movies, books, newspapers, magazines and lectures.
Most museums, botanical gardens, pools, amusement parks and other state run organizations have free days open to the public.
Take advantage of summer outdoor concerts, art fairs, flea markets, etc. The fresh air will do you good. 5. Buy during off season- Many items can be purchased on sale if you shop during ``off season'' or during a ``clearance''. This takes planning ahead, but is well worth the extra effort. 6. Check second hand and outlet stores, garage sales, and EBay- There is a vast and growing enterprise of thrift stores and outlet stores in every location. These shops usually contain gently used as well as new items for a fraction of the retail value. www.EBay.com Disability Issues: ********************** OK...no one wants to go on disability, but, it happens, so understand that this is what the program was designed for... to help those in need. Remember, this doesn't mean it will be forever. 1. Hire a Lawyer- If you need to find an attorney to help you file an SSDI application or an appeal, contact the National Organization of Social Security Claimants' Representatives (NOSSCR) at: 800/431-2804 or visit its website at: www.nosscr.org . The website also contains frequently asked questions and resource information for SSDI. Note: Most private attorneys and others who represent claimants accept cases on a contingent fee basis so no fee is charged unless the claim is successful. 2. Understand the process- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits are paid to workers under age 65 when earnings are lost or reduced due to disability. You may be considered "disabled" if you have a physical or mental impairment which (1) prevents you from working, and (2) is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death. Before you can apply for Social Security benefits, you must have credit for a specified amount of work. The exact amount of credit depends upon the worker's age. For additional information on filing procedures and requirements, contact your local Administration office in the U.S. government section of your phone book or visit their website.
NOTE: nifty trick to reach SSA Posted by: "convoconduit" Dec 3, 2007
After numerous unsuccessful attempts to get through to an available human at the SSA 800 number, I tried an alternative which worked! I googled the street address of the local SSA office.
Search results returned several pages, two of which contained actual, real, local phone numbers for that very location! I dialed one and got a busy signal. I tried the second, and got right through to an actual human who listened to my brief description of the issue I was calling about, indicated the category of local human there I needed to talk to, and I am, as I type this, on hold to speak with said human.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) makes monthly payments to people who are aged, disabled, or blind and have limited income and resources (assets). To receive SSI payments on the basis of disability or blindness, you must meet the Social Security Administration's definition of "disabled" or "blind", have limited income and resources, and be a citizen of the U.S. or its territories. Social Security work credits are not necessary to obtain SSI payments, so you may be eligible for SSI even if you have never worked. It is also possible to receive SSI benefits and qualify for Social Security Disability, if you are eligible. States may add to the federal SSI payments and provide Medicaid, food stamps, and various other social and rehabilitation services. For information about SSI, contact your local Social Security Administration office.
Social Security On-Line: www.ssa.gov Medicaid (Medical Assistance Program) is a joint federal/state program which provides physical and related health care services to low income persons. Individuals with disabilities may be eligible for Medicaid on the basis of income. Because eligibility is determined by your state program of public assistance on the basis of broad, federal guidelines, there are geographic differences between eligibility requirements and the types of services covered. Generally, a person may be eligible for Medicaid if (s)he is receiving welfare, other public assistance benefits, or Supplemental Security Income or is blind or disabled. Medicaid services are available in all states. Individuals with higher incomes may be eligible for Medicaid Supplemental Medical Care Assistance, or their children may be eligible if medical expenses exceed a given percentage of their annual income. Information on Medicaid is available from your local or state welfare or public assistance office. Medicare health insurance program is designed to serve everyone over 65 years of age as well as people with disabilities under 65 years of age who have been approved for Social Security disability benefits for a total of 24 months or who need dialysis treatments or a kidney transplant because of permanent kidney failure. The program is not based on income and is available regardless of financial need. Medicare has two parts: Part A: Hospital insurance at no premium that helps pay for care while in the hospital and for related health care services after leaving the hospital. Certain deductibles and coinsurance amounts apply. Part B: Voluntary medical insurance at a monthly premium that helps pay doctor bills and other approved medical services. More information about Medicare is available from your local Social Security Office 3. Gather the paperwork- Documentation is the key to applying for these government assistance agencies. You will need proof of your health situation, including bills, income verification, Doctor letters, receipts, evidence that you support yourself, bank statements, vehicle information, photo identification, and social security card. Be certain to find out in advance what is required. 4. Muster all of your Patience- This may take awhile; some patients wait 6 months to years. It is best to have a back-up plan. For more information see http://www.lymediseaseassociation.org/SSI.html . Other Programs: ********************** 1. Food Stamps- These are coupons that can be used the same as money to buy nutritious food. Contact the nearest office of your state's health and human services department. 2. Housing- HUD (the US Department of Housing and Urban Development) provides several programs for assistance on the state and federal levels. These may include Section 8 housing and emergency shelters, Eviction Prevention, Title 1 Home Improvement Loans, Farmers Home Administration loans, housing assistance payments, rental assistance payments, security deposit assistance, Home Investment Partnership programs, Mutual Housing Association grants and loans, and Small Community Development Block Grants. Contact your state HUD offices. Another avenue if you qualify are Centers for Independent Living. Check your local listings. 3. Utilities- LIHEAP is a federal run service that provides assistance designed to help qualified individuals pay their bills. Contact your state government department of health and human services. Also contact your state utility company to find out about reduced payments. 4. Community Health Clinics- Many communities offer clinics where services are available for free or for a substantially reduced cost. Check your local phone book or contact your nearest state health and human services office. Home Loans: 1. Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)- If you need to borrow money, home equity lines may be one useful source of credit. Initially at least, they may provide you with large amounts of cash at relatively low interest rates and they may provide you with certain tax advantages unavailable with other kinds of loans. Contact your lender for more details. 2. Second Mortgages- Some second mortgage loans may extend for as long as 15 or 20 years; others may require repayment in one year. Be sure you understand how much your new monthly payments will be and what they will cover. 3. Federal Housing Administration (FHA)- While FHA does not make or buy loans, they insure FHA loans so that if you default on the loan, the lender will get reimbursed. You may be able to get an FHA loan with a low down payment of only 3% of the loan amount or less 4. Veterans Association (VA)- If you are a veteran or qualify by military service or other entitlements, FHA mortgage insurance can also be combined with a guarantee from the Veteran's Administration. VA mortgages were created to help veterans achieve the American dream and buy their own homes. VA loans offer low to no down payments with many of the same benefits as an FHA loan. Bankruptcy: As a last resort, there is the process of bankruptcy. Be certain to check all the alternatives first, as the effects of filing are long lasting. Each state has its own Bankruptcy laws. A good comprehensive guide is available at www.mortgage101.com . How you can make a difference: *************************************** 1. On the political front- The best way to make your voice heard is to become involved with current political actions. You can usually write, call, or email to support local, state, and federal legislation that will help all patients. Every voice counts, so PLEASE urge your friends, family members, and associates to join in this effort. Please see www.lymeinfo.net for the latest information. GO TO ACTIVISM SECTION! 2. Helping others in need- There are several wonderful non-profit organizations in place that accept donations specifically earmarked for Lyme disease. Check with your local support groups or see the Lyme Disease Association website at www.lymediseaseassociation.org . Donations can be of any amount. 3. Support Groups- Most states and some cities have local support groups. Meetings are a wonderful opportunity to get to know fellow patients and gather information. Check listings on the web, or see http://www.lymenet.org/SupportGroups/ 4. Mentoring- Becoming a mentor is a rewarding way to ``give back''. You may mentor by phone or email to someone who is newly diagnosed and frightened, and doesn't even know what questions to ask. By just sharing what you have learned, you will be helping more than you realize. 5. LD awareness products- Purchasing products from LD groups is a great way to support the cause. Lyme Out http://www.lymeout.org/fundraisers.html 6. Become an Advocate- You are about to become an expert on Tick Borne diseases whether you want to or not...share what you learn in order to help prevent new ``experts''. Distribute information http://www.lymeinfo.net/advocacyinfo.html Help fellow LD patients www.lymenet.org 7. Attend LD events- There are several events happening nationwide that bring awareness to the general public. Show your support by attending these events. Please see www.lymeinfo.net for the latest information IN ACTIVISM SECTIN!
This is the URL to print out the monthly budget form.
There is also a debt reduction form but I have not found it yet.
The web site is different now than when I used it last.
Posts: 15927 | From Became too sick to work or do household chores in 2001. | Registered: Dec 2002
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kam
Honored Contributor (10K+ posts)
Member # 3410
posted
I also found the monthly budget form and credit card debt reduction forms.
I'll post them later.
I have been working a little on this site and learned that with my income I should be spending $80 a month on food according to percentage or piece of the big pie.
So, I went to the local food bank and came home with 2 cans of tomatoes of which I can not tell the expiration date.
The local food bank has foods high and sugar and wheat. I have learned that sugar and wheat make me sicker right now.
They also have a lot of pasta which I am not to eat as it makes me sicker.
Posts: 15927 | From Became too sick to work or do household chores in 2001. | Registered: Dec 2002
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just don
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 1129
posted
Since I am watching a TV show about people losing their house I thought this may be of interest here.
It MAY be too late for some,,,but THINK about this.
When people BUY a home and take out a mortgage they buy life insurance alot of times to pay it off if the worst happens,,,
VERY few ever buy a disability policy,,,when they are around 10 TIMES more likely to be disabled than die!!
AND the real kicker is they are still here to bear the PAIN,,,plus incur HUGE medical bills IF they are disabled.
The effects of being disabled is FAR greater than dieing as morbid as that sounds!! And I would say that pertains to all of us lymies!!
SO bottom line,,,IF your kids other loved ones,or yourselves take out a mortgage in the future,,,stress HOW important disability insurance really "IS"!!!
Have seen it cause heartache and sorrow SOOOOO many times!! WAAAAAY too often!!hopefully helpful--just don--
-------------------- just don Posts: 4548 | From Middle of midwest | Registered: May 2001
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