The maximum Pell grant for 2018-2019 is $6,095, but you’ll get less money of you drop from full-time status to part-time status. If you drop below half-time status, you will need to start repaying your loans. Failure to maintain at least a ‘C’ average and complete a minimum number of credits could jeopardize your financial aid. When your employer agrees to reimburse you for college courses, your reimbursement varies dependent on whether you get an A, B, or C. Furthermore, many companies may not reimburse your tuition unless you receive an ‘A’ or ‘B’ letter grade. Be diligent about getting the best grades, tutors etc. to reach your educational goals. Unless you do so you may pay financially and limit your ability to get promotions or a higher salaries. Education matters and future employers may request your colleges transcripts in filling new positions. In every case, you want to be able to show your best side or have an honest reason for not being able to do so.

https://www.cnbc.com/2018/06/08/why-flunking-or-dropping-that-college-class-will-dent-your-wallet.html

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Feeling overwhelmed with debt is a terrible space to be in and difficult to alleviate. Begin with only paying the basics, which are your costs for housing, utilities, insurance of all types, and food. Other bills such as credit cards, loans, childcare can often be negotiated before you get into arrears. When large debts exist, negotiate what you can pay prior to going into default. At times, the debt collector my want something in return especially if you let them you you are considering bankruptcy. In the case of bankruptcy, the debt collector may not get all or anything at all. Be as transparent as you can when discussing your debt. Never agree to pay an amount you cannot pay. If you do not prefer bankruptcy, agree to pay smaller amounts at regular intervals even if it is a small as $5, 10, 0r $20. Debt collectors are more pleased to receive a small payment than none at all. When you receive your income tax return, then you can pay off some of the smaller debt you may have.

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/fix-finances-m-overwhelmed-debt-dont-know-180651587.html

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There are some banks and credit unions that have designed resources for their account holders. Many do not. However, if they hear from consumers that their is a need, this may change. Offering classes, online information such as podcasts about reducing debt, purchasing a car or a home etc may help you avoid common mistakes that can be financially costly. Think about areas that you may need additional assistance and contact your bank for more information. We need to change the paradigm and let our need for financial information be known to our banking institutions.Banks and credit unions are not just a place to conduct our financial transactions, but should provide resources that are useful.

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The Washington Post recently reported that someone making minimum wage would be unable to afford a two-bedroom apartment anywhere in the U.S. This is shocking news for those who desire to leave their parents home or starting over again after a job loss. The report suggests that one must earn $17.90 an hour and work at least forty hours per week to afford a modest one-bedroom apartment. Or $22.10 for a two-bedroom apartment. This is difficult news for many who desire to live on their own with a family to support, not to mention other necessities such as health insurance, life insurance, car insurance or saving for emergencies. Making minimum wage used to considered a livable wage, but that is no longer the case and is a red flag to those who must improve their earning power to live well.

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This is GREAT NEWS! Discover Card is boosting the financial assistance it offers to call-center workers who want a college degree. Discover is becoming the latest company to enhance education benefits for employees who desire a bachelor degree. It appears seventy percent of 7,000+ call-center employees lack a four-year degree. Walmart will heavily subsidize college degrees and Lowe’s will contribute up to $2,500 to get an education in the skilled trades. Also, Lyft started offering education discounts to its drivers. This is especially significant in the midst of the student debt crisis, where the average college graduate will approximately owe just under $29,000. In addition, most corporations will assist the upper echelon in achieving an MBA and overlook the educational needs of lower-level employees.

https://www.cbsnews.com/amp/news/discover-free-college-online-for-all-workers-tuition-education-benefit

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The Federal Reserve is expected to raise interest rates next week. This means that consumers will pay more for mortgage and car loans, home equity lines of credit, and credit cards. Experts project a 2.2 billion dollar hike in credit card interest rate charges. Pay down credit cards and pay them off if at all possible. Savers with bank savings accounts and CD’s will win when interest rates rise and will get a greater return on their money. It will become more expensive to borrow money and will require consumers to be more diligent in finding the lowest interest rate possible. The larger the loan and the longer the repayment schedule means you may may thousands more in higher interest rates. Be an educated consumer and shop around to get the best interest rate possible. You’ll be glad you did!   https://amp.usatoday.com/amp/693886002

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It is possible to buy a reliable used car if you are willing to do your homework. Similar to a new car you must arm yourself with information before you make your purchase. A used car has a history, previous owners, and a maintenance record. If you can gather this info with is usually public record you can be a successful owner of a used car. Similar to the purchase of a home, where your bank requires a home inspection – it is imperative to get a mechanic to evaluate the overall condition of the car. Here are steps to follow to get the best deal on a reliable used car:

1.Order the title history

2. Watch our for rentals

3. Ask for a service history

4. Inspect the outside

5. Kick the tires

6. Check the fluids

7. Ask a mechanic

https://www.moneytalksnews.com/7-steps-to-buying-a-reliable-used-car/

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In a recent article, Marilyn Lewis talks about living paycheck to paycheck. It’s more common than we want to admit. Besides being extremely stressful, living paycheck to paycheck does not allow you to plan ahead, prepare for emergencies like car repairs, or relying on costly loans to get you out of a jam. There are (8) things you can do to move towards financial independence.

1. Know where you money goes – budgeting is a must
2. Making saving painless – set aside either $10, $20, or $50 every payday
3. Live on less than you earn – even if you can avoid the purchase – SAVE, SAVE, SAVE!
4. Get comfortable saying “no” to the kids –  and others
5. Cut your housing costs –
6. Drive a used car – You will save a bundle
7. Learn to cook – leftovers can be tasty too!
8. Forge an independent spirit – don’t try to keep up with the Jones’

http://www.moneytalksnews.com/slideshows/8-step-to-quit-living-paycheck-to-paycheck/

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A long-term financial plan is a must for everybody. It’s folly to avoid making a plan for your financial life. Half of all Americans do not have a long-term financial plan for several reasons. You can make a difference for yourself and loved ones. Without a plan it is difficult to make your money work for you to accomplish important life goals. Just like a GPS system if you have a plan you know where you are going. Without a map you may go drift unable to accomplish your lifelong financial goals.

https://www.fool.com/investing/2018/06/10/half-of-americans-lack-a-long-term-financial-plan.aspx

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It’s unfortunate that money is a leading cause of divorce. Money management is important to reduce conflicts about money. There are five things that can give couples guidance about money management. Developing great money habits is the key. Here are a few ideas from a recent study.

1. Couples make money their priority
2. They sync up on financial goals
3. They stick to spending limits
4. They open joint bank accounts
5. They share the burden of retirement planning and investing

https://www.fool.com/amp/retirement/2018/06/11/5-money-habits-happy-couples-get-into.aspx

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