My Pear-Shaped Q4: Why I’m Back in Credit Card Debt

 

Credit-Card-Debt

As 2015 draws to a close, I am yet again in the shackles of credit card debt. How did I get here…again?
It’s confession time…

After I paid off my credit card debt earlier this year, three things happened that landed me back into the grasp of Evil Credit Card Company.

ONE I fell ill with a health condition that required major surgery. I had an emergency room visit, many expensive tests and specialist visits. When all was done, I spent over $6,500 in out of pocket expenses relating to diagnosis. I thus more than maxed out my out of pocket limit for my high deductible health plan. I also spent an additional  $3,500 flying my mom out here and housing us near the hospital for two weeks (long story) during and after my surgery. That totaled about $10k that all went on my credit card between March and October.    Read More

Taking an Undesirable “Beater Job” to Pay Off Debt Faster

 

beater carcp2

If you’re familiar with Dave Ramsey and other personal finance writers you’ve heard of the value of driving a ‘beater car’ for getting out of debt.

What is a Beater Job?

When I talk about a ‘beater job’, I’m not talking about a side hustle or part-time work. I’m referring to a full-time, 9-to-5, ‘career job’.  If you’re in deep, massive, six-figure debt, like yours truly, you may find yourself having to decide how much your current job is really worth to your financial future. Should you jump into a not so great position just for more money to pay your debt faster?    Read More

A Quick Update: I’m Not Moving Anywhere

the-rent-is-too-damn-high-party

The rent is NOT too damn high today, Jimmy!

Last week, I wrote about a BIG increase to my rent.  My roommates and I were asked to EACH have to pay $250 more each month ( and possibly up to $333 /month more, long story).

As it turns out, Read More