Want to get out of debt? Uncle Sam can tell you how in the Federal Trade Commission’s series “Knee Deep in Debt”:
Knee Deep in Debt
Having trouble paying your bills? Getting dunning notices from creditors? Are your accounts being turned over to debt collectors? Are you worried about losing your home or your car?
You’re not alone. Many people face a financial crisis some time in their lives. Whether the crisis is caused by personal or family illness, the loss of a job, or overspending, it can seem overwhelming. But often, it can be overcome. Your financial situation doesn’t have to go from bad to worse.If you or someone you know is in financial hot water, consider these options: realistic budgeting, credit counseling from a reputable organization, debt consolidation, or bankruptcy. Debt settlement is yet another option. How do you know which will work best for you? It depends on your level of debt, your level of discipline, and your prospects for the future.
Self-HelpDeveloping a Budget: The first step toward taking control of your financial situation is to do a realistic assessment of how much money you take in and how much money you spend. Start by listing your income from all sources. Then, list your “fixed” expenses — those that are the same each month — like mortgage payments or rent, car payments, and insurance premiums. Next, list the expenses that vary — like entertainment, recreation, and clothing. Writing down all your expenses, even those that seem insignificant, is a helpful way to track your spending patterns, identify necessary expenses, and prioritize the rest. The goal is to make sure you can make ends meet on the basics: housing, food, health care, insurance, and education.
Your public library and bookstores have information about budgeting and money management techniques. In addition, computer software programs can be useful tools for developing and maintaining a budget, balancing your checkbook, and creating plans to save money and pay down your debt.
Next up… Bill Clinton’s Marriage Tips, Stalin’s Favorite Ukrainian Recipes, and Ron Paul’s new book Innocents Abroad. Feel free to proffer your own ironic books or pamphlets below.
Scott’s Guide to Staying Sober
“Liar’s Guide to Politics”
How is that ironic?
Good point.
Bud Selig: I Love Houston, Texas
On a related note, sharing a joke from comedian friend Travis Cohen’s “World’s Shortest Books” bit: President Obama’s Resume.
The Keith Olbermann Guide to Civil Discourse (with a foreward by Bill Maher)
“Let’s Keep It Clean!” Personal Hygiene and Sanitary Science Guide, Occupy New York
I meant “Occupy Wall Street.” Is it too late for coffee?
Never too late, however it’s as cold as the heart of a Democrat.
Will it mix with my bourbon?
Yupper.
“Steps in Delicate Negotiation” by Godzilla.
How to Explain American Exceptionalism to Foreign Leaders by Sean Penn, foreward by Barack Obama
“Dan Brown’s Guide to In-depth Historical Research.”
I think we have a winner.
Worthy of an Oreo for sure!
He’s a Chocolate Chip, no nuts fan.
Who? Barack Obama?
Lars. Why would I care what kind of cookies The Prez likes?
(Or were you being funny? I’ve seen quite a few rumors that he likes the nuts – again, speaking of B.O.)
Very good. Thanks you I’ll dedicate my next ironic book, “Lars Walker’s Guide to Fitness and Weight Loss,” to you.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IxAKFlpdcfc
Stand By Your Man: an new album of Classic Songs for Strengthening Marriage & Family Life by the Code Pink Singing Sisterhood
James T. Kirk’s Guide to Lasting Relationships
James T. Kirk’s Guide to the Prime Directive
Sulu and Niles Crane were straight men in their roles.
I could write a book on birth control…..(I actually do know quite a bit about it, but that stuff is bad for you
)
There was a chapter in “What the Dog Saw,” concerning the development of “the Pill” and the consequences, thereof. It was really interesting.
I don’t know how many times I’ve posted this link here, but for those of you who have not done it, go here and read these essays, http://gladwell.com/archive.html
They are like a favorite treat, you can pop in and out of here and pick one at random on a rainy day and always be pleasantly surprised.