Getting my financial house in order...

[DisneyLovingMama]

Now that I'm on my own, I realize what a mess my soon-to-be ex-DH made of our finances. I thought I was in control of them, but realize I was not, at all. If I can get out from under the mess he made, I know I make enough to live comfortably, but I'm not sure how to even get out. I don't want to go to a credit counseling place, but someone that can look at the whole situation (as ugly as it is), and advise on what bills to pay first, possibly restructure some of my payments, discuss future investments or current asset sales, etc. I really just want to get my financial house in order this year, so I'm not living paycheck to paycheck, or worse.

Any ideas what type of person/service can help with this?

 

[mudnuri]

Gosh, maybe a CPA?

I think your first step will be to lay it all out on the table, what you owe, who you owe it too, which is the biggest, high interest payment your making etc... call your creditors and discuss payment options, cutting interest, or stopping late fee's etc...

I'd never pay someone to help me pay bills though, so I'm not sure what to tell you?

Brandy

 

[DisneyLovingMama]

I understand, I'm not looking to pay someone to write my checks or anything. Just not sure I'm in the place to make the best financial decisions. Like, should I sell the house, the cars? Should I take a loan from my 401(k) - that kind of stuff. Not necessarily paying my bills, but helping me understand the big picture so I don't make a decision I'll regret.

 

[Disney Doll]

Does your bank offer financial planning services?? Many do.

Or an accountant.

 

[disneylizzy]

I don't know much, but I know you shouldn't take a loan from your 401(k). Its expensive and that's your retirement - you'll need it. I, too, am looking at my financial life now that I am separated. I got left with a huge credit card bill ($6,000) that was in my name, but he's the one that charged on it. I'm paying $200/month and half of that is interest!! I've got to get it switched to a card with a lower interest rate. As far as a new car, I'm just hoping my old one will hold out another year. Why don't you want to go to credit counseling? I know some of them are just shysters, but I think that there are services that are non-profit.

 

[mickeyboat]

Now that I'm on my own, I realize what a mess my soon-to-be ex-DH made of our finances. I thought I was in control of them, but realize I was not, at all. If I can get out from under the mess he made, I know I make enough to live comfortably, but I'm not sure how to even get out. I don't want to go to a credit counseling place, but someone that can look at the whole situation (as ugly as it is), and advise on what bills to pay first, possibly restructure some of my payments, discuss future investments or current asset sales, etc. I really just want to get my financial house in order this year, so I'm not living paycheck to paycheck, or worse.

Any ideas what type of person/service can help with this?

I was wondering if your area has some sort of aid group which helps people, especially women, do exactly what you are trying to do. Ask your attorney if he has a suggestion, or maybe the local women's violence shelter. Otherwise, I would suggest credit counseling or maybe a financial planner.

Denae

 

[edcrbnsoul]

Have you tried Dave Ramsey, I've been using his system for about a year he gives good straight forward advice that you dont need a PHD in Math to figure out. Its helped me alot. I purchased his book Total Money Makeover in the book store. And then saw him on the Oprah Show this past September. Here is a link to his website.

http://www.daveramsey.com/

If you need counseling you can look here

http://www.daveramsey.com/fpu/counseling/

 

[clarabelle]

I got this from Clark Howard website- You might find some other stuff on his website that is helpful www.clarkhoward.com. I consider him trustworthy.

To find a legitimate counselor, contact the National Foundation for Credit Counseling, at www.nfcc.org or call 1-800-388-2227.

 

[EthansMom]

A fee-based Certified Financial Planner may be able to help. CFPs help their clients get their financial house in order, so to speak.

You can look for a local CFP here: http://www.fpanet.org/public/index.cfm

Good Luck!

 

[PlaneJoy1]

I know you said that you don't want to do credit counceling but there are one or two reputable places that can help you do what you need. CCCS (consumer credit counceling service) is one of them. A lot of these people are retired CPA's volunteering their time so that they can keep their credentials. It is worth looking into and it's free and confidential.

Good luck!

 

[ducklite]

A fee-based Certified Financial Planner may be able to help. CFPs help their clients get their financial house in order, so to speak.

You can look for a local CFP here: http://www.fpanet.org/public/index.cfm

Good Luck!

Absolutely by far the best advice here. For $200 you'll get the best advice in the world, tailored specifically towards your needs and objectives!

Anne

 

[Disney-Kim]

definately a financial planner as others have suggested.

 

[grlpwrd]

I suggest consulting with a lawyer.

You need to settle things and protect yourself pre-and post-divorce.

GL!