Dear Dave, I just married a wonderful lady with two children. We’ve talked over our financial situation, and we’re determined to get out of debt within two years. This will mean some big changes in our teenager’s lifestyles. How can we break this to them gently?
Dear Dave, I’ll be starting college next fall. Is it okay to take out student loans if you have no other income to live on while you’re in school?
Today, Dave covers a question about emergency funds and also answers a reader interested in knowing whether unmarried couples should combine their finances.
Dear Dave,
What’s the best way to respond to a sibling who continually makes poor choices with money and often asks to borrow money? I don’t want to be heartless, but they’re out of control asking for money anytime they want. I’m currently on Baby Step 2 of your plan, and I’m six months away from being debt-free. Do you have any suggestions?
Dear Dave, I’m about to complete Baby Step 3. I’ve been very intense about following your plan, but I was wondering if there’s ever any kind of frustration or letdown after you’ve come this far.
Dear Dave, I have an idea for a small business I think is needed in my area. How do you feel about me keeping my current, high-paying job, and hiring a full-time manager to handle the day-to-day operations while I oversee things and handle accounting?
Dear Dave, I make big commissions leasing cars, but I’d never lease one myself. Should I quit? -Stan
Dear Dave, We have a special needs child, who will likely be under our care for the rest of her life. The doctors say there’s a good chance she’ll live to be about 40. How does the situation with our little girl affect our retirement planning and college funding?
Dear Dave, My husband lost his job a few months ago. He’s found another one since then, but we’re still trying to rebuild our finances. At the same time, our daughter plays softball on a travel team. It’s a great character-building experience, but the costs involved can be pretty high. Do you think we should cut down on the travel team activities for a while?
Dear Dave, How early should I start teaching my kids about money? Also, how do you feel about giving kids an allowance?
