debt. • SoFi (sofi.com) is another low-interest source. The site advertises loans that are 100% fee-free, with no late fees or fees for origination or pre-payment. • Credit Sesame (creditsesame.com) can provide information to help create your credit strategy and will start by giving you your credit score: “No credit card required & won’t impact your score.” Here are some miscellaneous tips to help you manage your personal finances: • Create a payment schedule so you can pay bills on the same day each month. It’s easier, less stressful, and it helps you ensure your funds are available when payments are due. • Avoid money arguments with your partner. Most domestic arguments are over finances. Communicate often, but not when time — or tempers — are short. • Buy generic brands when available. • Allow time for results on your budgeting efforts. It can take several months to get on track. • Pay off credit card debts monthly instead of just making the minimum payments allowed. Making minimum-only payments costs you a lot in extra interest and keeps you in debt for many years. • Avoid “guilt spending” on yourself and your kids (if applicable). • Stash money in an emergency fund and then use it only for true emergencies. Three months’ worth of expenses is a good buffer; six months’ worth is better. • Control your spending plan, even if you control nothing 164
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