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Debt-Relief-300x200American consumers love plastic. It is easy to use those credit cards and safer than carrying large amounts of money. Retailers like credit cards since people usually spend more when they use them. Special programs and bonus points encourage folks to reach for the card whenever they shop. Unfortunately, the convenience of using credit cards is habit-forming. That is a big problem.

The Unnoticed Cost

The interest rates credit card companies charge are a threat to financial wellness. The rates are ordinarily double-digit charges on purchases, and that adds to an already outstanding balance. The debt increases steadily as a consumer relies on plastic to pay for even small items. Anyone can quickly accumulate a five-figure due balance. Action must be taken before things get out of hand. Continue reading

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stockfresh_5472698_hand-signing-last-will-and-testament-document_sizeS-300x200It should be on every person’s bucket list, but a will is ordinarily the last thing considered. It is a tough assignment because it causes people to recognize their mortality. Nevertheless, a will is a document that has its advantages.

It is a principle of financial planning that experts strongly recommend to everyone, regardless of age. Young people, especially those with small children, should look at what they will do to protect minors. Older people have better control over how their final estate is divided. The benefits cannot be denied. Continue reading

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stockfresh_6378534_financial-freedom-concept_sizeS-300x192We are pretty much done with the pandemic years. Covid 19 is still with us, but recent job figures are reassuring. Unemployment is currently not a problem. Americans can feel relieved but must stay concerned about the future. New storm clouds are gathering.

Inflation and Interest Rates

The June inflation figures are 9.1%, the highest in over 40 years. Interest rates are starting to go up as well. Neither is a good sign. The statistics can negate any pay increases or job promotions. American consumers adjusted their spending during the pandemic, and some decisions were not wise. Moratoriums on college debt, evictions, foreclosure, and other obligations made life bearable, but not everyone saved for a rainy day. Continue reading

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vacation-rental-home-warranty-300x300-300x300There is no question that merchants love warranties. They are the little extra that is added to the sale of a product and increases the profit derived from the original purchase. There is nothing wrong with warranties if you know what you are getting into. Unfortunately, many consumers do not. That can cause some rough problems.

Many warranties are a piece of paper with lots of words on them. In a rush, buyers do not have the time to read every sentence, and they agree to one based on what the sales representative is saying. A smart person is going to investigate that warranty before agreeing to anything. Some questions need answering.

  1. What is the length of the warranty?

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stockfresh_6779024_person-hand-over-social-security-disability-claim-form_sizeS-300x200Many people get upset with government agencies. Whenever help is needed, there is some excuse not to give it. The delays and red tape make people give up on applying for government help.

That is not the best idea. There are services available from Social Security or the Veterans Administration that will make life easier. Family members who need special assistance, such as health aides or tutors, are worth going the extra mile for anybody. There are ways to work with government agencies that do not require elaborate strategies. Here are some thoughts. Continue reading

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stockfresh_7102501_college-debt_sizeS-300x300People with college debt are worried with good reason. They are dealing with a debt load that takes years to pay off. Life decisions such as buying a house or starting a family can be delayed for years. There does not seem to be an easy way out.

Dealing with Debt

Countrywide Pre-Paid Legal Services understands the frustration. College debt makes it tough to pay the rent and buying certain luxuries may be out of the question. People who have such obligations need help and not stern lectures. We have a financial wellness plan that is a significant employee benefit. It gives support to those who might be giving up hope. Continue reading

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stockfresh_7560715_multitasking-woman_sizeS-300x300We understand why folks get anxious about the cost of everything. America has not seen the recent inflation figures in decades. The cost of living affects everyone. Sadly, rising prices are hurting plans. It is easy to get depressed and be resigned to not being able to own a house, ever.

House Hopes Are Falling

While some experts anticipate that the price of houses will go down, the mortgage interest rates are going up. It is a squeeze that frustrates people. The thought that a home is unaffordable is sufficient to make anyone give up on being a house owner. However, we think that no one should lose hope. The house is still affordable without sacrificing financial wellness. Our self-study program, “Make Your Move,” gives many valuable home buying tips. Continue reading

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stockfresh_4514580_referrals-3d-words-connected-arrows-new-customers-word-of-mouth_sizeS-300x300Countrywide Pre-Paid Legal Services is proud of the assistance we give the employees of our client organizations. Our nationwide network of attorneys offers help in resolving common legal issues that people encounter, and these legal experts always show an elevated level of emotional intelligence and empathy. However, we do admit there are times when a plan member’s needs go beyond what we can do for them.

 

Some areas of the law, such as immigration, adoption, or personal injury, require specialized attention. Attorneys proficient in various legal niches spent considerable time learning the nuances of their specialties. As a result, they often charge higher fees. Countrywide will not hesitate to refer a plan member outside our network if the need arises. Continue reading

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stockfresh_6378534_financial-freedom-concept_sizeS-300x192Half of the year has gone by, and this is a time for evaluating progress. People set financial goals in January and take a moment now to assess how they are doing. Changes or modifications might be needed to clear any obstacles.

Facing a Challenge

Everyone is feeling the effects of inflation. The June figures were high, and food and gasoline prices are not decreasing. Money is tight, and the average consumer must stretch the dollars to cover the bills. This belt-tightening is coming at a tough time. Continue reading

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stockfresh_5987416_customer-relationship_sizeS-300x200We readily admit that legal services can be a fleet of paper sailing on an ocean of ink. There are so many written documents that it almost appears that every issue has its library. It is all important, but there is something more critical to high-quality legal services. That is communication.

It Moves Things Along

Group legal plans will promote their services and the Internet connections. It is great to have websites and important to have FAQ pages, but there is more to good pre-paid legal services. Many people are intimidated by the law. What makes sense to an attorney on a website can baffle an average employee. There must be more to communication than templates. Continue reading