Social Security Ends 2037

For the first time in several decades social security is laying out out more money than it brings in. A recent report indicates the account will be depleted in 2037, when I’m 64. Doh!

Maybe it’s not all doom and gloom though. Check out The myth of the Social Security system’s financial shortfall for a little optimism.

Unemployed in Carlisle, Kentucky

Last week The Bulletin ran a story from the New York Times about a woman in Carlisle, Kentucky who’s been out of work since October 2008 and collecting unemployment. Until June she was getting $1500 per month in unemployment. I know that doesn’t sound like much but her rent is only $275.

Local charities have helped with her car payment and electric bills, but she doesn’t know how she’s going to pay for the cell phone, cable tv and Internet, minimum credit card payment, or an end table on layaway.

When you’re struggling financially, lose the friggin’ cable TV and Internet. The library in Carlisle is open six days a week and has a dozen computers with Internet access. More frustration… The lady featured in the article wrote to Tom’s of Maine asking for free product because she uses their brands of toothpaste, deodorant, and mouthwash. I’m familiar with this brand and can tell you that it’s one of the more expensive ones. Toothpaste costs $3-$5 depending on where you shop. You can get some Ultrabrite (my brand) or Pepsident for $1 at a wide range of stores.

So, the lesson for the day is when you’re asking others (family, charties, churches) to help you pay your bills, stop wasting money on stupid s%#t.

No Kids = Big Savings

I’m reading The Little Book of Big Savings by Ellie Kay and in the baby room Kay suggests saving money by making your own baby wipes. She did this for her five youngest kids until they were toddlers. WTF!

How about saving money by not having five or more children?