Category: Credit Cards / Banking

March 3, 2024 Off

Navigating Divorce & Social Security: Disability vs. Early Retirement

By The Admiral Staff

A reader going through a divorce and facing disability is wondering if they can claim Social Security benefits based on their soon-to-be ex-husband’s record. While claiming benefits based on an ex-spouse’s record requires them to be eligible for and receiving benefits, the author advises exploring Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) first. Due to the reader’s age (nearly 62) and inability to work, qualifying for SSDI may be easier and result in higher monthly payments

February 22, 2024 Off

Decoding Debt: Secured vs. Unsecured Loans Explained

By The Admiral Staff

This article explains the differences between secured and unsecured loans, offering a guide to choosing the right type for your financial needs. **Secured loans** require collateral (like a car or home), often resulting in lower interest rates and easier approval, especially with lower credit scores, but carry the risk of losing the asset if you default. **Unsecured loans** don’t require collateral, have higher interest rates due to increased risk for the lender, and typically involve a faster approval process but require a good

February 22, 2024 Off

Money Orders: A Simple Guide to Secure Payments

By The Admiral Staff

Money orders are a secure and relatively inexpensive way to send money, with a maximum limit of $1,000. They can be purchased at various locations like the USPS, banks, credit unions, and major retailers. To fill one out correctly, you’ll need the payee’s name and address, the payment amount, your name and address, and the reason for payment. It’s crucial to sign the money order and double-check all information before sending it. Alternatives to money

February 20, 2024 Off

Co-Signed Student Loan Nightmare: A Parent’s Dilemma

By The Admiral Staff

A parent co-signed a student loan for their 18-year-old daughter who then dropped out of college and now has $20,000 in debt. The parent, living on Social Security Disability, is concerned about being held responsible for the loan payments. The advice given is that the parent will likely be liable as a co-signer, particularly since these are likely private loans. Suing the daughter is discouraged due to her lack of funds. Instead, the parent should

February 18, 2024 Off

Second Chances & Second Mortgages: A Financial Crossroads

By The Admiral Staff

A 71-year-old woman is hesitant to disclose her debt to her 72-year-old boyfriend, with whom she is committed but not planning to marry. The advice columnist suggests she isn’t obligated to share this information unless they were considering marriage or cohabitation. However, she encourages consideration of whether withholding the information impacts her spending habits or causes undue stress. Ultimately, the columnist advises that his reaction to the disclosure will reveal a lot about him, and suggests talking to