#Managing Debt

[fortheloveofyoualways]

Check out my new blog post

[fincrif]

The Role of Personal Loans in Debt Management Strategies

Managing debt is a crucial aspect of maintaining financial stability, but it can often feel overwhelming. With multiple loans, credit card balances, and other financial obligations, it’s easy to lose track of your finances. For many individuals, personal loans have become a key tool in managing and consolidating their debts. In this article, we’ll explore the role of personal loans in debt management strategies and how they can help simplify your financial life.

What Is a Personal Loan?

A personal loan is an unsecured loan that can be used for various purposes, such as consolidating debt, paying for unexpected expenses, or financing large purchases. Unlike home loans or auto loans, which require collateral, personal loans do not. This makes them an appealing option for many borrowers, as they can obtain the funds they need without risking their assets.

Personal loans generally come with fixed interest rates and repayment terms, making it easier to budget for monthly payments. These loans can range from small amounts, such as $1,000, to larger amounts, up to $50,000 or more, depending on the lender and the borrower’s creditworthiness.

How Personal Loans Help in Debt Management

Debt management is the process of managing and reducing the amount of money you owe to creditors. It involves taking a proactive approach to repaying debts and finding ways to streamline your payments. Personal loans can be an effective tool in these strategies, offering a range of benefits that can help borrowers regain control over their financial situation. Let’s dive into how personal loans play a role in debt management.

1. Debt Consolidation

One of the most common uses of personal loans in debt management is debt consolidation. Debt consolidation involves combining multiple debts, such as credit card balances, medical bills, and personal loans, into one single loan. By consolidating your debts with a personal loan, you simplify your finances and have just one monthly payment to manage.

The key advantage of consolidating debt with a personal loan is that it can lower your overall interest rate. Many personal loans come with lower interest rates than credit cards, which often carry high-interest rates. If you’re able to secure a personal loan with a lower interest rate than what you’re currently paying on your existing debts, you can save money on interest over time.

Additionally, personal loans for debt consolidation typically come with fixed repayment terms. This means you’ll know exactly how much you need to pay each month, helping you stay on track and avoid missing payments. This predictable repayment structure can be a welcome change for those struggling with variable credit card payments.

2. Simplified Payments

Managing multiple debts can quickly become overwhelming, especially when you have to keep track of different due dates and payment amounts. With a personal loan, you only need to worry about a single monthly payment. This can greatly reduce the stress of managing multiple accounts and make it easier to stay organized.

Having one consolidated payment can also help you avoid late fees and penalties that occur when you forget to pay one of your creditors on time. By streamlining your payments, a personal loan provides clarity and control over your finances, allowing you to focus on improving your overall financial health.

3. Lower Interest Rates

As mentioned earlier, personal loans typically offer lower interest rates than credit cards and other high-interest debts. If you have high-interest credit card balances or payday loans, consolidating them into a personal loan with a lower interest rate can save you money. Over time, this can make it easier to pay off your debts and reduce the total amount of interest you owe.

For example, let’s say you have $10,000 in credit card debt with an interest rate of 20%. If you consolidate that debt with a personal loan offering a 10% interest rate, you could save hundreds or even thousands of dollars in interest over the life of the loan. This reduction in interest charges means more of your monthly payment will go toward the principal balance, helping you pay off the loan faster.

4. Fixed Repayment Terms

One of the most important benefits of using a personal loan for debt management is the fixed repayment terms. When you take out a personal loan, you agree to a set loan term, such as two, three, or five years, during which you’ll make equal monthly payments. This structure helps you plan your budget and avoid surprises.

Unlike credit cards, which have revolving balances and can make it hard to predict how long it will take to pay off your debt, a personal loan provides a clear timeline. This can be especially beneficial if you’re trying to pay off your debt as quickly as possible, as you know exactly when the loan will be paid off. Fixed repayment terms also prevent the debt from lingering indefinitely, providing you with a sense of financial progress and accomplishment.

5. Credit Score Improvement

In addition to simplifying your debt management process, a personal loan can also help improve your credit score. When you consolidate high-interest credit card debt with a personal loan, you reduce your overall credit utilization ratio. Your credit utilization ratio is the percentage of available credit you’re using, and it’s one of the key factors in determining your credit score.

By paying down your credit card balances with the proceeds from a personal loan, you lower your credit utilization, which can boost your score. A higher credit score can open the door to better financing options, including lower interest rates on future loans or credit cards.

Additionally, by consistently making on-time payments on your personal loan, you demonstrate responsible credit behavior, which can further enhance your credit history. Over time, this can lead to a higher credit score, making it easier to access credit when needed.

6. Avoiding Bankruptcy

In extreme cases, people may resort to bankruptcy to manage overwhelming debt. While bankruptcy can provide a fresh start, it comes with serious long-term consequences, including a significant drop in your credit score and lasting damage to your credit report. Filing for bankruptcy can make it difficult to qualify for loans and credit in the future.

A personal loan for debt consolidation can provide an alternative to bankruptcy. By consolidating your debts and managing them through a personal loan, you avoid the need to file for bankruptcy, thus protecting your credit score and financial future.

7. Paying Off High-Interest Debts

One of the main reasons people struggle with debt is the high interest rates associated with credit cards, payday loans, and other forms of unsecured debt. A personal loan can be a great way to pay off these high-interest debts and reduce the financial burden they impose.

For example, credit cards often have interest rates between 15% and 25%, while payday loans can charge even higher rates. If you’re only making the minimum payments on these types of debts, it can take years to pay off the principal balance, and you’ll end up paying a significant amount of interest. A personal loan with a lower interest rate can allow you to pay off these debts more quickly, saving you money in the long run.

8. Financial Flexibility

Lastly, using a personal loan for debt management provides financial flexibility. Once you’ve consolidated your debts and lowered your interest rates, you may have more room in your budget to address other financial goals, such as building an emergency fund, saving for retirement, or investing in your future. Personal loans give you the breathing room you need to regain control of your finances and move forward with confidence.

When Is a Personal Loan Not a Good Option for Debt Management?

While personal loans can be an effective tool for managing debt, they’re not the right solution for everyone. If you’re already struggling to make ends meet and have a low credit score, you may not be able to qualify for a personal loan with favorable terms. In such cases, you may want to explore other options, such as working with a credit counselor, negotiating with creditors, or seeking assistance through a debt management program.

Additionally, if you take out a personal loan and continue to accumulate debt on your credit cards or other loans, you may find yourself back in the same situation. A personal loan is most effective for debt management when you commit to using it as part of a broader strategy to reduce your overall debt load and live within your means.

Conclusion

Personal loans play a significant role in many individuals’ debt management strategies. By consolidating high-interest debts, simplifying monthly payments, and offering fixed repayment terms, personal loans can help borrowers take control of their financial situation. They can also lead to long-term financial benefits, such as improved credit scores and reduced overall interest payments.

However, like any financial tool, personal loans should be used carefully and responsibly. If you’re considering using a personal loan to manage debt, take the time to evaluate your financial situation and ensure that it’s the right choice for your needs. With proper planning and responsible management, a personal loan can be a powerful tool in achieving your financial goals and regaining control over your finances.

[ahandhiman]

Is a Balance Transfer a Good Idea for Managing Debt?

A balance transfer allows you to move your existing credit card debt to a new card, usually offering a lower interest rate or even 0% interest for a limited period. This can be a smart way to manage debt, as it helps reduce the amount you pay in interest, allowing you to focus on clearing the principal amount faster. Is a balance transfer a good idea for managing debt? Let’s find out.

Balance transfer credit cards often come with promotional offers, giving you 6 to 18 months of low or no interest. However, it's important to watch out for transfer fees, typically ranging from 1% to 3% of the total amount transferred.

This option is ideal if you have good credit and are committed to paying off the balance before the promotional period ends. But if you miss payments or fail to clear the debt in time, high interest rates might kick in, adding to your financial burden.

In conclusion, a balance transfer can be a great tool for managing debt if used wisely. Always read the terms carefully and plan your payments to make the most of this option.

[champstorymedia]

Unlock Your Potential: Setting S.M.A.R.T. Financial Goals for Success

Introduction Setting financial goals is crucial for achieving success and realizing your full potential. By following the S.M.A.R.T. criteria – specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound – you can create a roadmap to financial success. In this article, we will explore the importance of setting S.M.A.R.T. financial goals and how it can help you unlock your potential. Why Setting…

[georgeshutcheson]

What is a Debt Management Plan?

New Post has been published on https://www.fastaccountant.co.uk/debt-management-plan/

What is a Debt Management Plan?

Understanding Debt Management Plans in the UK” is your essential guide to navigating the complexities of managing debt effectively. You’ll discover how a Debt Management Plan (DMP) works, its benefits, and how it can help you regain control over your finances. This article is designed to offer you clarity and actionable insights in a friendly and uncomplicated way, so you can take confident steps towards a debt-free future without feeling overwhelmed.

What is a Debt Management Plan?

A Debt Management Plan (DMP) is an informal agreement between you and your creditors to pay back your non-priority debts, such as credit cards, overdrafts, and personal loans. Managed by a third party, typically a debt management company or charity, a DMP aims to spread out your debt repayments over a longer period, often making them more manageable and affordable based on your financial situation.

How Does a DMP Work?

A DMP works by consolidating your debts into a single, more manageable monthly payment. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the process:

Assessing Your Financial Situation: You and a debt advisor will review your income, expenses, and debt to see what you can realistically afford to pay each month.

Creating a Budget: With the help of your advisor, you’ll create a budget to ensure you can cover necessary living expenses while prioritizing debt repayments.

Negotiating with Creditors: Your advisor will negotiate with your creditors on your behalf to accept lower payments and potentially freeze interest and charges.

Making Payments: You make one monthly payment to the debt management company, which then distributes the money to your creditors.

Benefits of a Debt Management Plan

A DMP can offer several benefits, making it an attractive option for those struggling with debt.

Consolidation of Debts

One of the main advantages is the consolidation of multiple debts into one manageable payment, reducing the stress of keeping up with numerous bills.

Reduced Payments

Your debt advisor will negotiate reduced payments with your creditors, making the monthly amount easier for you to handle without compromising your essential living expenses.

Interest and Charges

Creditors are often willing to freeze interest and charges on your debts once you enter into a DMP, allowing you to focus on paying off the principal amount faster.

Professional Guidance

By working with a debt management company or charity, you gain access to expert advice and support, helping you navigate your way out of debt.

Drawbacks of a Debt Management Plan

While DMPs can be quite helpful, they’re not without their disadvantages. It’s important to be aware of these potential drawbacks.

Impact on Credit Rating

A DMP can negatively affect your credit rating. Since you’re making reduced payments, your creditors may report this to credit reference agencies, reflecting poorly on your credit score.

No Legal Standing

Unlike other debt solutions such as an Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA) or bankruptcy, a DMP is not legally binding. This means creditors can still take legal action against you.

Duration

Because the payments are reduced, it might take longer to pay off your debts compared to more aggressive repayment strategies.

Not All Debts Are Eligible

Priority debts like mortgages, rent arrears, and utility bills are not included in a DMP. You’ll need to manage these separately, which might be an additional financial strain.

Who Might Benefit from a DMP?

While DMPs offer various advantages, they’re not suitable for everyone. Here are some scenarios where a DMP might be beneficial.

Multiple Non-Priority Debts

If you have multiple non-priority debts that you’re struggling to keep up with, a DMP can help bundle them into one easier-to-manage payment.

Temporary Financial Struggles

If your financial difficulties are expected to be temporary, a DMP can offer breathing space as you get back on your feet, whether due to job loss, medical expenses, or other temporary financial setbacks.

Willingness to Repay

If you’re committed to repaying your debts but just need more manageable terms, a DMP can provide a structured plan to help you achieve that goal while providing professional support.

Steps to Setting Up a DMP

Setting up a Debt Management Plan involves several steps, and each step is crucial for ensuring that the DMP works effectively for you.

Step 1: Consult a Debt Advisor

The first step in setting up a DMP is consulting with a qualified debt advisor. Charities like StepChange, National Debtline, and PayPlan offer free advice and assistance in setting up a DMP.

Step 2: Review Your Finances

Together with your advisor, you will review your financial situation, including your income, expenses, and all outstanding debts. This is crucial for understanding what you can realistically afford to pay each month.

Step 3: Create a Budget

With your advisor, you will create a comprehensive budget. This will include necessary living expenses like rent, utilities, food, and transportation, ensuring that the amount you agree to pay each month is doable.

Step 4: Negotiate with Creditors

Your debt advisor will reach out to your creditors to negotiate reduced payments and possibly get agreements to freeze interest and additional charges. This negotiation is crucial as it will establish the terms of your DMP.

Step 5: Make Monthly Payments

Once everything has been agreed upon, you will start making your agreed monthly payments to the debt management company, which will then distribute the funds to your creditors.

Step 6: Regular Reviews

Your situation might change over time, so it’s important to have regular reviews with your advisor to adjust your DMP as necessary. This helps ensure that the plan continues to be manageable and effective.

DMP vs. Other Debt Solutions

It’s important to compare a DMP with other debt solutions to see if it’s the best fit for your situation. Here are a few alternatives to consider.

Debt Consolidation Loan

A debt consolidation loan involves taking out a new loan to pay off your existing debts, consolidating them into one single payment. It often comes with a lower interest rate but has the drawback of possibly extending the period over which you have to repay your debts.

Individual Voluntary Arrangements (IVAs)

An IVA is a legally binding agreement between you and your creditors to pay off your debts over a fixed period, usually five years. Unlike a debt management plan, an IVA offers legal protection against creditors taking further action but can also have a more severe impact on your credit rating.

Bankruptcy

Bankruptcy is a severe measure that legally frees you from most debts but comes with significant consequences, including asset liquidation and severe impacts on your credit rating. It should only be considered as a last resort.

Comparison Table

Aspect DMP Debt Consolidation Loan IVA Bankruptcy Legally Binding No No Yes Yes Impact on Credit Rating Moderate Varies Severe Severe Eligibility Non-priority debts Usually good credit required Unmanageable debts over £10,000 Severe financial distress Creditor Protection No No Yes Yes Duration Variable Variable Fixed, usually 5 years Immediate (usually 1 year)

Managing Your DMP Effectively

Once your DMP is in place, managing it effectively is crucial for its success.

Stick to Your Budget

Adhering strictly to the budget you set with your advisor is key to the success of your debt management plan. Avoid unnecessary expenses and prioritize your essential needs and monthly DMP payment.

Open Communication

Maintain open lines of communication with your debt advisor and creditors. If your financial situation changes, inform them immediately so adjustments can be made to your plan.

Regular Reviews

Regularly reviewing your debt management plan ensures that it remains effective. This allows you to adapt the plan in response to any changes in your income or expenses.

Avoid New Debts

It’s essential to avoid accumulating new debts while on a DMP. This will ensure that all your available resources are focused on repaying your existing obligations.

FAQs about Debt Management Plan

To wrap up, let’s address some frequently asked questions about DMPs to deepen your understanding.

Will All My Creditors Agree to a DMP?

While most creditors are often willing to work with a debt management plan, some may refuse. However, your debt advisor will still distribute payments to all creditors proportionately, whether or not they have formally agreed.

How Long Will a DMP Last?

The duration of a DMP can vary greatly depending on the amount of debt and the monthly payments agreed upon. It might take several years to repay your debts under a DMP fully.

Can I Include All Types of Debt in a DMP?

A DMP typically covers non-priority debts such as credit cards, personal loans, and overdrafts. Priority debts like mortgage arrears, rent, and utility bills are usually not included.

Is There a Cost to Setting Up a DMP?

Some organizations charge fees for setting up and managing a DMP, but many charities like StepChange offer these services for free. It’s essential to clarify any costs upfront.

What Happens If I Miss a Payment?

Missing a payment could jeopardize your debt management plan. Creditors might start adding interest and charges again or take legal action. Always inform your advisor if you’re at risk of missing a payment to explore solutions proactively.

Conclusion

Understanding Debt Management Plans in the UK can be a daunting task, but being well-informed can help you take control of your financial situation more effectively. A DMP can offer a structured, manageable way to pay back your non-priority debts while providing the much-needed support and guidance of a debt advisor. By understanding both their benefits and drawbacks, you are better equipped to decide if this debt solution is right for you.

If you find yourself struggling with debts and contemplating a DMP, it’s always best to seek advice from a reputable debt charity or financial advisor who can guide you through your options. Remember, the goal is to find a solution that works best for your unique financial situation, helping you regain control and achieve a debt-free future.

[fvckwithmefamo]

What is a Debt Management Plan?

Understanding Debt Management Plans in the UK” is your essential guide to navigating the complexities of managing debt effectively. You’ll discover how a Debt Management Plan (DMP) works, its benefits, and how it can help you regain control over your finances. This article is designed to offer you clarity and actionable insights in a friendly and uncomplicated way, so you can take confident steps…

[creditcounsellingsociety]

Debt Management Program

Your journey towards becoming debt-free can be a lot easier if you have the right guidance for managing debt. With our personalized debt management program, you get credit counselling, help with debt consolidation, and more. Check out the program now.

Visit: https://nomoredebts.org/debt-help/debt-management-program

[kc22invesmentsblog]

Mastering the Art of Effective Debt Management

Written by Delvin Debt can be a burden that weighs heavily on our financial well-being and overall quality of life. However, by adopting effective debt management strategies, you can regain control of your finances and pave the way to a debt-free future. In this blog post, we will explore practical tips and strategies to help you manage your debt effectively and achieve financial freedom. 1.…

[poobirdy]

bingqiu boxing au feat. boxer binghe and manager shen yuan, as requested by @/rev_6_4 for svsssaction!

[demonic0angel]

Piggybacking off the protective Jason one, can you please do one where Danny is actually on his side for once/approves of him and tears the JL a new one for arresting his sister. (Idk if Danny is ghost king in your au so if not maybe like a diplomat or something so he can still give her diplomatic immunity.)

(Hell yeah 🫡)

Part 1

“We can’t just allow this to happen!” Green Lantern demanded. “If this just goes on, then what example are we supposed to be setting?! And Batman, how come you never told us that you worked with a literal crime lord?!”

Superman looked despondent. “I heard that he killed hundreds of people and once put decapitated heads into a bag. Batman… why were we not informed?”

Batman was silent. It was Flash who asked, “Wait, what’s going on?”

Green Lantern turned to him and said, “Spooky over here has a son that he never told us about that bailed out his partner that we captured! Wolf was ready for interrogation when the Red Hood came and took her out! Wolf is one of the most biggest figures in the underworld right now! Even if Red Hood’s your son, why did you just let him go with Wolf?!”

Phantom suddenly spoke up for the first time. His tone was very curt. “I’m sorry, did you just say ‘Wolf’?”

Everyone paused. Phantom was young, yes, but no one could deny his power and strength. If it wasn’t his raw power on the battlefield, it was his experience as king and god that made everyone pause in place to listen.

Green Lantern looked sullen but nodded. “Yes, Wolf. Y’know, the bombshell in all black leather, wearing a helmet, taller than 6 feet?”

Phantom’s gaze grew cold. “When did you capture her?”

Superman asked, “Do you know her?”

Wonder Woman suddenly spoke up. “We captured her only a few hours before she was broken out of the interrogation room. She faced no harm, but she did mention someone during her stay here. She mentioned that her little brother would have words with us if we hurt her…. Is her little brother you?”

Everyone’s eyes widened. Phantom scowled. “That’s right. Wolf is my big sister, and while it is partially my fault that you were not aware of her status, I know her very well. She must’ve tried to argue for herself, didn’t she? Did you lock her up even when she tried to talk you out of it? Did you let her speak at all or did you just throw her straight into the room to be interrogated?”

Wonder Woman’s eyes widened in guilt. “I—!”

Even Martian Manhunter winced.

Phantom growled and stood up. “As you know, my people and I came here to this world for diplomatic reasons to learn from and protect this place. It is my fault for not telling you about my sister’s identity, but I am sorely disappointed by how you handled this situation. As heroes, you should’ve been willing to listen and hear her out, even if you believed that she was a criminal.”

Frost began to form under his fingertips before they receded as the Ghost King forcibly calmed himself. “My decision is this: the Red Hood has done nothing wrong by protecting my sister. Since they are both my citizens, I will do my best to protect them and I say that we cease this persecution. I owe the Red Hood many debts, so if we continue this idea and you insist on capturing both of them… do not blame me if I pick a fight with you all to protect my people.”

Stunned silence.

After all, what could they say to that? After he just dropped several bombs at once?

Everyone agreed to his demands. After all, no one was really that suicidal to hunt down the man who was owed debts by the Ghost King and said Ghost King’s sister.

[bitchesgetriches]

{ MASTERPOST } Everything You Need to Know about How to Pay off Debt

Understanding debt:

Let’s End This Damaging Misconception About Credit Cards

Season 2, Episode 10: “Which Is Smarter: Getting a Loan? or Saving up to Pay Cash?”

Dafuq Is Interest? And How Does It Work for the Forces of Darkness?

Investing Deathmatch: Paying off Debt vs. Investing in the Stock Market

How to Build Good Credit Without Going Into Debt

Dafuq Is a Down Payment? And Why Do You Need One to Buy Stuff?

It’s More Expensive to Be Poor Than to Be Rich

Making Decisions Under Stress: The Siren Song of Chocolate Cake

How Mental Health Affects Your Finances

Paying off debt:

Kill Your Debt Faster with the Death by a Thousand Cuts Technique

Share My Horror: The World’s Worst Debt Visualization

The Best Way To Pay off Credit Card Debt: From the Snowball To the Avalanche

The Debt-Killing Power of Rounding up Bills

A Dungeonmaster’s Guide to Defeating Debt

How to Pay Hospital Bills When You’re Flat Broke 

Ask the Bitches Pandemic Lightning Round: “What Do I Do If I Can’t Pay My Bills?” 

Slay Your Financial Vampires

Season 4, Episode 3: “My credit card debt is slowly crushing me. Is there any escape from this horrible cycle?” 

Case Study: Held Back by Past Financial Mistakes, Fighting Bad Credit and $90K in Debt 

Student loan debt:

What We Talk About When We Talk About Student Loans

Ask the Bitches: “The Government Put Student Loans in Forbearance. Can I Stop Paying—or Is It a Trap?”

How to Pay for College without Selling Your Soul to the Devil

When (and How) to Try Refinancing or Consolidating Student Loans

Ask the Bitches: I Want to Move Out, but I Can’t Afford It. How Bad Would It Be to Take out Student Loans to Cover It?

Season 4, Episode 4: “I’m $100K in Student Loan Debt and I Think It Should Be Forgiven. Does This Make Me an Entitled Asshole?” 

The 2022 Student Loan Forgiveness FAQ You’ve Been Waiting For

2023 Student Loan Forgiveness Update: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly 

Our Final Word on Student Loan Forgiveness 

Avoiding debt:

Ask Not How Much You Should Save, Ask How Much You Should Spend 

How to Make Any Financial Decision, No Matter How Tough, with Maximum Swag

Your Yearly Free Medical Care Checklist

Two-Ring Circus 

Status Symbols Are Pointless and Dumb 

Advice I Wish My Parents Gave Me When I Was 16 

On Emergency Fund Remorse… and Bacon Emergencies

Should You Increase Your Salary or Decrease Your Spending? 

Don’t Spend Money on Shit You Don’t Like, Fool

The Magically Frugal Power of Patience

The Only Advice You’ll Ever Need for a Cheap-Ass Wedding 

The Most Impactful Financial Decision I’ve Ever Made… and Why I Don’t Recommend It 

3 Times I Was Damn Grateful for My Emergency Fund (and Side Income) 

Buy Now Pay Later Apps: That Old Predatory Lending by a Crappy New Name 

Credit Card Companies HATE Her! Stay Out of Credit Card Debt With This One Weird Trick 

Ask the Bitches: Should I Get a Loan Even Though I Can Afford To Pay Cash? 

The Bitches vs. debt:

I Paid off My Student Loans Ahead of Schedule. Here’s How.

I Paid off My Student Loans. Now What?

Hurricane Debt Weakens to Tropical Storm Debt, but Experts Warn It’s Still Debt

The Real Story of How I Paid Off My Mortgage Early in 4 Years

Case Study: Swimming Upstream against Unemployment, Exhaustion, and $2,750 a Month in Unproductive Spending 

That’s all for now! We try to update these masterposts periodically, so check back for more in… a couple… months??? Maybe????

[relaxedstyles]

[champstorymedia]

Secure Your Future: The Power of Setting Clear Financial Goals

Introduction In today’s fast-paced world, securing your financial future has become more important than ever. One of the most powerful tools at your disposal is setting clear financial goals. By defining your objectives and creating a plan to achieve them, you can pave the way for a stable and prosperous future. In this article, we will explore the importance of setting clear financial goals and…

[dubiousdisco]

It's cute that when you finish story mode with kenshi you get

The cages did not forget 🕶👍

[incandescentflower]

So there's been some anvil-weighted relationship development scenes in Thamepo along with the more subtle ones. I haven't seen as much infatuation with sandwiches since kdramas were sponsored by Subway. In fact, I really think there was a serious missed opportunity here. I jest. Branded sandwiches would have put this over the edge. It's already teetering.

The phone number was the next one. But what I liked about this one (and to be clear, I liked the sandwich thing and how Po's own symbolism was co-opted on him, we just don't have to keep doing it, show, we got it already) - anyway, again, what I liked about this one was that Thame was so desperate for Po to not think he forgot to save his number because he didn't care about it.

Thame wanted Po to know that it was so important to him that he have it that he recited it back to him with the intention of remembering it. It was more about the action of showing the importance, than the remembering imo. Thame knows basically one thing about Po's ex - that he was dismissive of Po. And Thame clearly doesn't want Po to think he was doing the same.

And we know that Po's issue is that he felt so unimportant, so forgotten by his ex and here he has someone before him basically declaring no matter what happens, that he will make sure he remembers him.

It's pretty sweet, actually.

[mintconditioned]

student debt is getting scarier. here’s how to protect your future.

if you’re a teen thinking about college, here’s something you might not know: the decisions you make now could either save you thousands — or lock you into years of student debt. and this moment in history? it’s making those decisions even more important.

why this matters:

1️⃣ interest rates are rising. the federal reserve raised interest rates several times recently to fight inflation. that means new federal student loans now come with higher interest rates (5.5% for undergrads in 2024–25, up from 4.99%). private loans? even higher. translation: borrowing today costs you more long-term than it did a few years ago.

2️⃣ student loan forgiveness is in flux. biden’s large-scale student loan forgiveness plan was blocked by the supreme court, but the administration is pushing new targeted relief (as of 2025, $146 billion in debt relief for about 4 million borrowers). great — but also unpredictable. future forgiveness depends on politics. counting on it is risky.

3️⃣ college costs are still climbing. average tuition at public 4-year universities rose 4% last year alone. in some states, budget shortfalls mean public universities are cutting programs but not lowering costs — so you may pay more for less.

4️⃣ economic instability is affecting job prospects. tech layoffs. hiring slowdowns. AI disrupting entire industries. a degree still matters, but planning for debt when the job market is uncertain? that matters even more.

so what can you actually do — beyond the basic “apply for scholarships” advice?

📚 know how to read a financial aid award letter. most teens don’t. schools may bury parent plus loans or high-interest private loans inside your “aid” package. use tools like nerdwallet’s aid letter decoder to understand what’s really free money and what’s expensive debt.

🔍 research state-specific aid + tuition reciprocity. look up whether your state participates in tuition reciprocity programs (like WUE for western states). out-of-state tuition can sometimes drop by 50% if your state has an agreement. most families never hear about this.

🛠 combine vocational training + college. instead of a full 4-year program, look at hybrid paths: 1–2 years of vocational training + part-time degree later. fields like tech support, healthcare administration, logistics pay well without requiring a full degree first. you can earn earlier and avoid full-time debt.

🖥 maximize low-cost online college credits now. through dual enrollment, clep exams, or online platforms like outlier.org, you can earn gen ed credits for ~$400/class instead of ~$1,500+. even one semester of credit saved = thousands in future loans avoided.

💬 talk to current college students about debt — not just admissions officers. schools will tell you about campus life. current students can tell you whether people are drowning in loans. if everyone says “yeah, most of us are $50k in debt,” listen.

bottom line:

student debt isn’t just a future problem. inflation, rising interest rates, shaky job markets, and political uncertainty make this the hardest environment for student borrowers in over a decade. the good news? teens today are savvier than ever — and if you start planning early, you can avoid some of the mistakes that trap millions of others.

your future self will absolutely thank you