Researchers at Statista.com estimate that consumers in the United States are projected to have spent an average of $850 on Christmas gifts this year. That is similar to what was spent in 2019. While we may fuss that this holy season has become all about materialism or consumer-driven hyper-indulgence, much is to be appreciated about […]
Dear Chuck, Covid set me back financially this year. As a result, we’re having a very frugal Christmas. Can you offer any tips on setting financial goals for next year? I want to be better prepared for what may lie ahead! Getting Ready for 2021 Dear Getting Ready, I am so sorry for the […]
Dear Chuck, My husband told me we need to discuss our family finances. I asked him if we could wait until after the holidays. He agreed to but I’m a nervous wreck. What should I do to prepare? Nervous about Our Finances Dear Nervous about Our Finances, The fact that your husband wants to […]
Dear Chuck, Money is tight for Christmas this year. Any tips for shopping Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales? Looking for Deals Dear Looking for Deals, You can search for articles pointing you to the “best deals” on Black Friday or Cyber Monday, but be aware that many of those articles are really just […]
Dear Chuck, My husband and I just relocated and want to start a business in which he has years of experience. He left a company that lacked integrity and was losing clients. We have money but don’t know many people here yet. Any suggestions before we step out? Pensive Entrepreneurs Dear Pensive Entrepreneurs, It would […]
Dear Chuck, Is it a sin to be in debt? I feel guilty for having debt. Not Debt Free Dear Not Debt Free, No, there is not a law or command in the Bible to be out of debt, but it is a good principle to live by. Like you, most Christians probably know […]
Dear Chuck, How do you think a Biden presidency would impact my retirement nest egg? It is hard to know which way this election will go! I can’t afford to lose my savings. Fearful Retiree Dear Fearful Retiree, Thanks for the question. As of this writing on November 4th, the day after the presidential election, […]
Dear Chuck, Are we headed towards negative interest rates? If so, how in the world do I prepare for that? Rates Below Zero? Dear Rates Below Zero, This is a great but very challenging question. With our federal funds rate (the cost for our banks and financial institutions to borrow money) essentially at zero […]
Dear Chuck, The real estate market in our area is booming! We are thinking of buying an upgraded home with these low rates but are worried we may not be able to find what we really want or need. Can you give us some tips? Homebuying Fever Dear Homebuying Fever, We are in the […]
Dear Chuck, My daughter and son-in-law have decided they will not have children due to overpopulation and the cost. I don’t understand how they could make such a decision. Can you give me some good stats to share with them? Hoping for Grandchildren Dear Hoping for Grandchildren, Since I have five grandchildren already, I know […]
