A Guide For the Newly Uninsured
Welcome back!
As the economy continues to struggle the cost of living is rising for Americans. Many Americans are so strapped for cash that they are having to pick and choose which bills to pay. Lots of Americans do have health insurance through work and some purchase health insurance on their own as well. If you are one of the many Americans who is losing or has lost their health insurance recently, don’t panic. Welcome to the club!
Not having health insurance is not the end of the world if you are healthy. The first thing to do is not to panic. Millions of Americans go without health insurance every year. To survive without it is possible. here are a few tips that I as an uninsured individual live by.
Assess when you really NEED to see a doctor
If you have a cold or the flu there really isn’t a need to see a doctor. A doctor should not prescribe any antibiotics for these issues. Let the body naturally fight it off. Over the counter fever reducer and cold medication should do the trick. To keep from spreading illnesses like these, try to stay contained to one bedroom if possible. Make sure to not let others handle used tissues. Also keep some bleach wipes near the toilet, so that you can wipe the handle when you are done, do the same with door knobs and phones.
The Drug Store and the Pharmacist
For example if you have a stomach ache, try Pepto or Amoduim. These work wonders and cost only a fraction of what the trip to the doctors would. Also if you are going to a store that has a pharmacy, do not be afraid to ask the pharmacist medical questions. They can usually offer sound medical advice. They can usually help you choose the right drug to help you as well. They can also inform you of what illnesses are going around, and tell you the best way to treat it.
When it is Time to See the Doctor
Sometimes, you must go to the doctor. I usually throw in the towel when I have a cold or flu that won’t go away. Another red flag that it’s doctor time, is when someone has a really high fever that will not go away. A high fever is usually a warning sign of infection. Usually when symptoms get worse or do not fade, it is time to see the doctor.
If you do not have a regular doctor, I recommend going to an immediate care center. These facilities have a doctor on staff, and the bill is much more manageable than the emergency room. If you do have a regular doctor, when you are scheduling an appointment let the receptionist know that you do not have insurance. Usually when you let your doctor know ahead of time, they can work out a payment plan. They also can try to keep unnecessary procedures and tests to a minimum.
I am not a medical professional so please use common sense when taking my advice. Please do not sue me if you arm falls off cause you did not go to the doctor. The best thing you can keep yourself healthy. Exercise, eat right and get plenty of sleep. Try to keep unhealthy habits to a minimum. Best of luck to you all!
Resources for Recent Layoffs
540,000 jobs were cut last month, and this month is looking to be worse. It is a scary time to be employed and unemployed right now. Strong stable companies are shedding jobs in an effort to help their bottom line. However, where does that leave the receiver of a pink slip?
Well, if you have recently received a pink slip you are not alone. I came across a statistic the other day that said 70% of Americans know someone who has been effected by the economic downturn or laid off. In looking at that stat, it is amazing to me to see how rampant this really is.
As I was searching the net for information to aid those who have been recently laid off, I came across this article on Mashable.com. They have an article that lists the best 30 websites for those who are jobless right now.
This database of websites is wonderful! It is very rare in the vast universe that is the internet, to find such a detailed and concise list. The database, has sites not only how to find a new job, but how to manage your money until you do.
Ben Parr, the author says,
“But the worst time to panic is when you are laid off and lose your main source of income. We live in a new and powerful era of communication, one where we can find support, gather news, and network without ever leaving our computers.”
I would encourage all to take a quick glance at his database. This is a wonderful resource. I hope that this helps to those of you who have recently recieved that dreaded pink slip
When You Must Look Your Best
The job market is rough right now. Wither you have a job or are looking for a job, now is the time to dress the part. It is commonly known that you should always dress above the current position that you have. These tips will help with the interview wardrobe as well. Employers look for people that are qualified and look the part.
Here are my top five tips for dressing for an office, without breaking the bank:
Know What You Need to Buy:
Take a look in your closet and see what you already own. When you are considering clothing for work purposes, make sure that it fits correctly. Do not wear clothing that is too tight or baggy. All work clothing must clean and ironed when worn. Never wear clothing that is dirty or stained.
Now that you have established what you do or do not have in your current wardrobe, you will know what you need to shop for. Everyone needs a good business suit. I would also suggest a well fitted button down shirt or two. Don’t forget that dressing the part does include shoes too. Make sure they are appropriate and are dress shoes.
The Thrift Store
When I got my first corporate job, my wardrobe did not fit the part. However, I did not want to go out and spend a ton of money on clothing right away. I did not want to spend my whole paycheck on clothing. Also keep in mind, this might not be the best place to by dress shoes.
There are lots of options at thrift stores and consignment shops. The most important things to keep in mind when you shop at these places, is to make sure that the articles of clothing fit you well and are clean. I was able to purchase quite a few button down shirts at the thrift store. It is fun to get carried away in the thrift shop with so many possibilities, but keep your choices conservative. Stay away from loud colors and patterns at first.
Kohl’s
I have been told that Kohl’s has a wonderful business casual department. I have never looked there myself but, I have heard this tip many times. Kohl’s is great because they have really good sales on occasion. Plus, you can try on the clothing before you buy it, which you sometimes can’t when in a resale shop.
The nice thing about shopping at a store like Kohl’s is that you can by lots of clothing that coordinates with each other. You can also buy shoes there too, and dress socks and stockings for the ladies. You can also enlist the help of staff, that have helped many dress for work. The beauty of a place like Kohl’s, is it can be a one stop shop. I have also been told that the clothing and shoes are very reasonably priced.
Outlet Malls:
This can be a wonderful trick. After being hired at my first corporate job, I was at a lose of where to buy a good suit. I could buy separates that the thrift store, but I was not able to find a good suit. Hence the trip to the outlet mall. I am lucky to have two within driving distance. Both malls have lots of stores which cater to to corporate client.
I found a United Colors of Benton outlet nearby. This store was perfect for me. They specialized in women’s suiting. I like this store because not only were the prices reasonable, but the suiting fashions were perfect for a range of ages. For the first time, I found a suit that was not matronly and fit me well. The staff was wonderful and friendly. I bought two suits on my first trip for under $300.
The following Monday when I wore one of my new suits to the office, I was flooded with complements. Furthermore, I mixed and matched the pieces of the suits with other things in wardrobe. I soon noticed what a big difference these two suits had made. Now it may be my imagination but, I felt more respected and taken more seriously on the days that I wore one of these suits. I would consider the investment of a good suit as a necessity.
Be the Whole Package
Now that you have the perfect wardrobe, make sure the rest of you looks nice too. Make sure that you hair is combed and styled in a conservative manner. While your mohawk maybe super cool with your friends, it will not as well received with potential employers. I would also suggest taking out piercing other than the ear piercing.
As for jewelry make sure it is appropriate. Keep you jewelry simple. Make sure that it accents your ensemble, not distracts from it. A strand of simple pearls always works well for women. For men I would suggest a nice pair of cufflinks or a simple tie clip.
As for make up for the ladies, make sure it is simple and tasteful. I would stay away from bright colors. Go for a natural look.
Believe it or not, your nails matter for both sexes. For men make sure your nails are well groomed, don’t bite them and make sure they are clean underneath. For ladies, make sure your nails do not have chipped nail polish. If you do want to have manicured nails, make sure that you choose a conservative style. It is guaranteed that you will shake someone’s hand during the interview process, or on a daily basis while working in an office, so make sure that you nails look professional.
Good luck to all of you out there in the job market who are looking to either move up the corporate latter or take the first step onto it. A solid resume will get you in the door, but remember you are an entire package. Employers will hire people who are not only qualified, but look the part as well. Good Luck to you all!
How to Pawn Items
I live on the fringe of a major city, but I am also far enough that I can pickup a few local television stations. My area so far as been relatively insulated from the current recession. However, just east of me has not been so lucky. They have lost jobs at an alarming rate. Entire towns are closing down.
I sometimes choose to watch the local news from that area, because sometimes they cover the town that I live in. While I was watching the newscast last week, I thought to myself, what a different tone the news had taken in that area, within the past six months. Major stories on the last newscast included, where to get food, how to apply for financial assistance and announcements of more layoffs. It was truly sad to see.
I do not delude myself that people are really struggling right now but the real slap in the face came when the news did a story on how to pawn your valuables in order to keep your utilities on or feed your family. The story covered the basics of how to pawn items, and which items were bringing in the most money.
As I watched, the newscaster sifted through family heirlooms and wedding bands. It was heartbreaking to see people have to sell these things in order to survive. However, if I were faced with that situation, I too would sell my precious items to feed my loved ones.
Pawn shops are doing great right now in this economy. If you do end up in a situation where you must pawn your items, to stay afloat please make sure you understand the process. Pawn shops are not necessarily bad places, they are a business like any other.
How to Pawn
When you take an item to a pawn shop, you are essentially renting it with the option to buy it back from the shop owner. In some shops there is the option to come and buy the item back within a certain amount of time. Please be careful when you decide to do this, because in essence you are selling your valuables to another person. You will most likely never see that item again.
My mother learned this lesson all too well in the mid-1980′s after my youngest sister was born. Times were tight and she went and pawned her wedding band, to feed our growing family. She was left without any other choice. She sold the ring to a pawn shop, and she has looked for the ring ever since. She has never seen the ring again. I once asked her if she wish she would have not done that. She replied that of course she wish she still had the ring, but feeding her family was more important.
So, please keep in mind, that you may never be able to find the item that you pawn agin. Make sure that you can live with loosing it. Also do some homework as to the value of what you are pawning is. The most important thing to remember is that you do not have to sell it to the pawn shop once you are there. If you do not want to, then don’t.
The End of the 24 Hour Society?
As President Obama said, last week in his press conference, Americans are loosing jobs at an alarming rate. Stores are closing like crazy. I am amazed to see even bigger chain stores closing in my area.
We have become an around the clock society. So many stores offer 24 hour services, as opposed to 10 years ago. We have come to expect, that certain mega-retailers and drugstores will be open at all hours of the night, just incase we need something.
However, as the jobless rate goes up. and payroll gets harder to cover for many business’ large and small, will we start to see a decline in the 24 hour store? When I started to thing about this concept in depth, which I had never really done before. I was amazed at how expensive it must be.
A store that is open for 24 hours, 7 days a week must incur some serious costs. Payroll must be outrageous. If you thing about it, the store must be staffed at all times, usually with more than one person. Almost all 24 hour stores have a manager on duty, at all times. Managers are payed more than regular staff and are therefore more expensive.
Then I thought about,how much the energy costs of keeping your doors open at a 24 hour store must be. Heat, or air conditioning, lights, and water? That kind of usage must really add up quickly. Especially for a mega-retailer such as Walmart.
Taking all of these thoughts into account, I wonder, with the downturn in the economy will the 24 hour store survive? As we all know, retail sales are down sharply for the country. People are not out shopping. Which I would think would certainly effect the over night crowd that frequent 24 hour stores.
I am grateful for the store that stays open for 24 hours in times of sickness or emergency. However, I think that with stores being open constantly are slowly changing our society. We are able to do things like shop whenever we’d like that we were not able to do before now.
So, what does this current depression have in store for the 24 hour shopper? I guess only time will tell. Until then, covet your ability to feed your 2 am. fix for that Heath Bar or be thankful that you can buy junior diapers at 4 am.
What To Do With Your Tax Return?
Tis’ the season of the long awaited tax return for those early filers out there. Those glorious checks that cheerfully find their way to your mailbox, unless you live in California. With dollar signs in the eyes of many, strict budgeting is need and it is needed fast.
In these difficult times, this additional money can really help make a difference in a person’s budget, if they spend it correctly. I have some very dear friends, who I love very much, who will have received about $3000. worth of tax refunds from Uncle Sam this year. As their money is starting to trickle in, so are the unneeded large purchases.
I am not a financial scholar, I have made my mistakes financially. When I see friends of mine making such large frivolous purchases, this makes me start to think about how others will be spending their return as well. Will the whole country be as irresponsible as my dear friends?
I will not be receiving a return this year. I am totally bummed, because I could really use the extra influx of cash, right about now. I am sure that most of the country could use an influx of cash right now as well. Even though I will not be receiving a return this year, I pondered that if I had, what would I do with the money. I do know that large unneeded purchases would not be happening.
How can people like my friends even think about shelling out large amounts of cash at a time like this. I do understand that spending stimulates the economy, but in these shaky times, when jobs are not guaranteed, doesn’t it make sense to not spend but save? I know that there are those out there who will not spend like money is going out of style.
There are those out there that need that money to stay afloat financially. Wether that tax return comes or not, financial responsibilities never stop. I hope that for those who really do need the checks right now, that they use it in a responsible manner.
Austerity and Our New President
Tonight our president came before the press and the American public. Finally some questions about what the stimulus entailed, how it would be put into practice, and how its sucess could be determined.
It was wonderful to see a strong message broadcast to a leary country. Obama ventured to Elkhart Indiana today to see one if the hardest hit towns by this economic recession. I have driven through this area within the past year and I have to say that the scene was deviststing. I was so pleased that our President took the time to go there to see the average American’s plight. Tonight he used these people as an example saying that Washington needed to stop positioning themselves for the next election and work for the people who depend on them.
I watched the entire confernce and a few things stood out to me. First of all the President Obama said,
“As we speak, similar scenes are playing out in cities and towns across the country. Last Monday, more than 1,000 men and women stood in line for 35 firefighter jobs in Miami. Last month, our economy lost 598,000 jobs, which is nearly the equivalent of losing every single job in the state of Maine. And if there’s anyone out there who still doesn’t believe this constitutes a full-blown crisis, I suggest speaking to one of the millions of Americans whose lives have been turned upside down because they don’t know where their next paycheck is coming from.”
I knew the unemployment rate was sky rocking but, it is truly alarming when one looks at the raw data. Large portions of the country have been insulated from what the rest of the country is going through, tonight those people got to see how badly things have become for their fellow Americans.
I also liked how President Obama closed his speech by saying,
“We find ourselves in a rare moment where the citizens of our country and all countries are watching and waiting for us to lead. It is a responsibility that this generation did not ask for, but one that we must accept for the sake of our future and our children’s.”
We as a country are at a history making juncture, it’s sink or swim time. I am optimistic at this point in time, I think that our country will band together and rise again, like we have out of every other depression and recession. This country is not a stranger to hard times, and we have always pulled through. So, lets not break that trend. Let’s help our neighbors where and when we can and stand up as a country to make it through.
The Library, all the Entertainment You can Stand
Most communities have a public library within a drivable distance from their homes. Libraries have been around forever, therefore they have been mostly forgotten, except by the select few. Well, my friend the time of looking to the local library for entertainment is back. For little to no cost, everyone can participate, all you need is a library card.
Today’s library has more than books to entertain you. My local library has videos and DVD of feature length films which are available to be rented. They also have books on tape, for those of you how do not prefer read. The tapes you have, can be imported into an MP3 on your computer. The possibilities are endless when at the library!
If you do like to read or if it bores you, try a book from the non-fiction department about something exotic, like a travel book, or a recipe book. These can be a ton of fun, on a snowy or rainy day. I always love to look at gardening or fashion books with beautiful pictures. Want to go on an exotic vacation but cannot afford it, get a picture book and substitute.
As I said earlier many libraries also offer multi-media selections. Learn a new language on cd, or listen to music from a favorite artist, or even surf the internet. Many libraries offer free internet to those who hold a library card for that particular branch.
Another great benefit that you may find at your local library is a book club. My local library has a wonderful book club that meets once a month during the lunch break hour, to accommodate professionals. If your local library does not have one, and you are a habitual reader, start one.
Most libraries offer classes on many different subjects, for only a few dollars. This can be a great way to entertain yourself cheaply. My local library has lamaze classes to basket weaving. Most of the classes meet in the evening, so that more people can attend. Also look to see if any clubs meet at your local library.
Most people never set foot into their local library. There is a treasure trove of entertainment to be had. Be brave, go in and get a card. Learning something new is a wonderful way to entertain yourself. The Library is a very budget conscience way to entertain yourself, just watch those fines.
Don’t Waste What You Have, Eat your Leftovers
Not to waste is not a new concept to America, just a forgotten one. Survivors to the first depression learned a very valuable lesson, don’t waste anything. Take for instance my grandfather, who is a survivor of the great depression, he saves everything. One day I was in my grandfather’s den, and I noticed that he had a stack of used carbon paper. I asked him why he was saving used carbon paper. He replied that it could always be used again.
Grandpa may be a bit on the extreme side of not wasting but, he’s got a point. Get the most out of what you do have. I am amazed at how much stuff we as a society throw away. It is true that one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Instead of throwing things in the garbage, such as clothing or furniture, donate it if possible. There are plenty of needy people out there.
One of the best ways not to be super wasteful is to realize how much food you actually throw away. When I actually started to look at how much food that I was throwing away on a weekly basis I was shocked. My most common food that was thrown away was left-overs. I always put away dinner that went uneaten and took dinner home from restaurants that was uneaten as well. I always had the best intention of finishing my leftovers but, it never happened.
Then I got smart, looking at how much food was actually being thrown away was upsetting. I worked hard to pay for that food, not throw it away. I started to eat my leftovers in my fridge religiously. Not, only was I not wasting but, my grocery bill went down because my food was lasting longer.
My pledge to start eating my leftovers in my fridge, changed the way I did my monthly shopping. I realized that whatever I cooked, I was going to eat until it was gone. I started to cook food that kept well for a few days and was as tasty tomorrow as it would be when I cooked it. Chili, stew, soup, and casseroles are great leftovers.
You can even make leftovers fun. Have a leftover night. Leftover night is where you cook all of the leftovers at once. When other time can you eat Chinese, pizza and pasta at the same time. It can actually be really fun. We used to do this when I was a kid and I loved it.
I won’t say that I don’t throw any food away, I do, but it is a lot less. I hate to throw food away. I recognize how lucky I am to even have food. Really try to eat your leftovers. However, a word of caution, be careful how long you keep leftovers. Know the shelf live of things, and usually as a word of caution don’t eat leftovers that have been in the fridge for more than a week.
You Have How Many Monthlies?
In this time of economic recession people are paying a lot more attention to their pocketbooks than they were a year ago. For many the stack of bills coming in the mailbox just keeps getting bigger, and for some, more threatening. I know this is true in my case. I was young and stupid once, and now I am paying for it. However, past mistakes are not a total loss, now is the time to evaluate what bills you are actually paying each month. There are so many things that can be cut from your monthly expenses if you take the time to think about it. Here are my top tips for re-evaluating how to cut that pile in half.
What are you actually paying?
I think this is particularly prevalent in credit situations. You have the right to check your interest rate and monthly minimum payments. If you don’t like the current situation with your creditors, call them and tell them. If they won’t work with you, threaten to close your account, that usually prompts action. As a customer it is your responsibility to check your billing statements. When I upgraded to a new cell phone, the cell phone carrier did not set up my contract correctly and I was majorly overcharged. I always check my bill and I am glad I did in that case. I would have paid almost $200 in fees.
What services can you actually afford?
In our modern lives there are all kinds of little services that gobble cash a little bit at a time, that add up in your monthly budget. Dry cleaning is a great example. They can be really expensive. When I worked in the cooperate setting, my local cleaners knew me by name. I never hand washed my suits. Well, it turns out a lot of stuff that has a dry cleaner tag, can actually be hand washed and laid flat to dry. I use Woolite, works like a gem.
I had to take a hard look at what my biweekly trips to the salon was costing me. While I do love to be pampered, it is pricey. I love to take the time just for myself, and I thought that was the only way I could get it. Well, tea and an old black and white movie at home is free, and it is me time. It may not be as glamorous but, what can a girl do in this depression?
Are your household expenses in line with your budget?
While most of us do not pay outside help to come in and assist them with the running of it. A cleaning lady, nanny and landscaper, are more prevalent in suburbia today. I employ none of the above, but for those who are trying to cut back, this might be a good place to start. Let a neighborhood boy or girl cut your lawn. If you are looking for less expensive child care, put an ad up in your local high school.
Energy expenses can always be cut in your home. As it has been said time and again, turn down your heat. An extra sweater or a blanket can be an essential when trying to cut your energy bills. There are so many resources to help you save, look for them and do your homework. My husband and I keep our thermostat at 66 degrees in the winter and 72 in the summer. A few degrees in temperature can amount to a few hundred dollars less on your next bill.
Really take a look at what you are paying for. You work hard for your money, don’t just give it away. Really evaluate what you actually need and really want to pay for. Check every bill, even receipts, you’ll be amazed how many times you are accidentally overcharged.
