Cops and Collections
The guys pretending to be cops trying to collect imaginary or unenforceable payday loans got busted. But not before they made 2.7 million phone calls, threatening arrest and worst if the "debts" weren't paid. The federal Fair Trade Commission filed the complaint against Broadway Global Master, based in Pleasanton, California, and the federal district court in Sacramento shut the fraudsters down. But not before they had collected more than $5.2 million from people who had never taken a payday loan or had already repaid the debt. They claimed to be law enforcement officers with the power to arrest delinquent debtors. This extortion scheme worked, for a while, because too many consumers missed the announcement, 180 years ago, that … [Read More...]
Is Peter Pan Guiding Your Future?
Peter Pan famously never grew up. He was a cocky, multi talented child-adventurer forever. However, that was Never-Never Land. The rest of us will not only grow up, we'll grow old. My … [Read More...]
3 Reasons To Share Financial Information With Your Spouse
A March 29, 2012 article at LearnVest titled My Husband Can’t Even Log Into Our Bank Account! discusses financial makeovers, but it made me consider just how many of my own clients don't share … [Read More...]
Here’s A Personal Finance Trick For Forgetful People
I haven't had to pay a utility bill in six months. No gas, no electricity, no cable, and no cell phone. Not a single penny is required. In return I have more free time and peace of mind when … [Read More...]
Here’s What They Leave Out When They Talk About Foreclosure And Your Credit Score
When it comes to the impact of a foreclosure on your credit score, the headlines are deceptive. Dig deeper for the real truth. The headline at Credit.com screams at you about losing your home: … [Read More...]
How To Wage The War Against Waste By Going To The Backyard
I enlisted in the war against waste long ago. You'd think I was a child of the Depression, rather than my grandparents. The war rages close to home and close to kitchen here, even in the … [Read More...]
Can You Find (And Plug) The Hidden Holes In Your Budget?
Remember those New Year's resolutions you made when the ball dropped? No? Don't worry - you're not alone by a long shot. Fear not, there's hope. Rather than a single list for all your New Year's … [Read More...]
3 Reasons Why We Don’t Buy American-Made Goods
Some claim we've been sending too many jobs overseas. But without good jobs, how can we afford the price tag of American-made goods? Evan at My Journey To Millions recently asked Would You Pay … [Read More...]
For Single Parents, Budgeting Needs To Rule Over All
There are lots of single parents out there. Moms, dads, even grandparents are raising children these days. The reasons are important, but not fitting for this site. If you want to debate … [Read More...]
A Sure-Fire Way To Beat The High Cost Of Eating Well
The cost of eating is rising all around us. The news last night projects a 2 to 4% increase in the year ahead. We'll have to shop and cook smarter in the months ahead just to keep our food … [Read More...]
The Woody Allen Rule And Debt Collection
Diamonds are forever, goes the sales pitch. If you've got bills you can't pay, it may seem that debt is forever as well. Not so. Every debt owed to a creditor who isn't a governmental entity … [Read More...]
