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Archive of Dave Says - Weekly Financial Blog
- Big Inheritance Coming… Is a Prenup a Good Idea?
Big money changes everything. A prenup protects you and your children so your marriage can start strong and stay strong.... more
- There’s No Fun in Dysfunctional
This behavior isn’t okay. True partnership means equal voices, shared choices, and mutual respect.... more
- Managing Your Time and Money So Extracurriculars Don’t Feel So…Extra
With mindful budgeting and simple routines, you can manage activities stress-free while teaching kids real-life money skills.... more
- They’re Manipulating Your Feelings
Set clear limits and require financial counseling so they learn to manage money and break the cycle of dependence.... more
- Giving is Always in Season
By showing generosity and involving your kids in giving, you’ll help them see that true joy at Christmas—and in life—comes from sharing love and kindness with others.... more
- Don’t Blur the Lines
With clear communication, firm boundaries, and written agreements, you can protect both your investment and your friendship while building a strong financial future.... more
- Want Big Results? Embrace Big Changes
Real change takes awareness, courage, and discipline. When people face the truth and take action, they open the door to lasting freedom and financial peace.... more
- Giving Intelligently and Responsibly Takes Time and Effort
With thoughtful research, discernment, and prayer, you and your wife can give confidently, knowing your generosity will truly make a lasting, meaningful impact.... more
- Don’t Kick a Guy When He’s Down but Don’t Let Him Throw a Pity Party, Either
With love, structure, and accountability, your son can rebuild his confidence, regain independence, and move forward toward a brighter, self-sufficient future.... more
- Which Comes First?
Retirement must come first—there are no scholarships for it. Secure your future so you can help your kids without risking your own stability.... more
- Over 18? You Need a Will
A will is your final I love you - simple to make, vital for protecting your family, and peace of mind you cannot afford to put off.... more
- The Face in the Mirror
Transferring balances won’t fix bad habits—real change starts with you. Budget wisely, live below your means, and commit to a debt-free lifestyle.... more
- Make Your Case, and Don’t Worry About the Other Guy
Focus on your value, not comparisons. Make a clear, respectful case for a raise based on your results—and let your performance speak for itself.... more
- It Takes Courage to Cry
Loving your pet means doing what’s best for them—even when it’s hard. Make the choice with compassion, not just emotion, and never at the cost of your peace.... more
- Calmly and Confidently Control the Situation
Stay calm, know your rights, and keep records—confidently managing the conversation puts you in control, even when dealing with tough debt collectors.... more
- Love Your Enthusiasm, but That’s Not an Emergency
Paying off your home is great, but don’t sacrifice your emergency fund—protect your peace by staying prepared for life’s unexpected surprises.... more
- Unique Situation, Separate Finances?
Separate finances may feel easier, but long-term success comes from unity—work together, get on the same page, and build a strong financial future.... more
- Medical Emergencies Come First
Pause your debt snowball, pay only minimums, and focus on medical bills. Once you’re recovered, restart Baby Step 2 and keep moving forward!... more
- An Ounce of Prevention
Set aside funds regularly—especially for older homes—because preventive maintenance now can save you from major costly repairs down the road.... more
- Time to Leave the Nest? The High Price of Financing Adult Kids
Helping adult kids is okay in tough times—but parents must protect their future first. Prioritize retirement and give only what you can truly afford.... more
- You’ve Got to Get on the Same Page
If the business isn’t breaking even, it’s time for a loving, honest talk and a plan to protect your family’s financial future—before things get worse.... more
- Now’s the Time to Invest in You
Invest in yourself first—your education is your best asset. Finish school debt-free, and that $20K will give you freedom and options after graduation.... more
- Think with Your Head (and a Calculator), not Your Heart
If it’s not a traditional lease and offers real value with no hidden catches, it may work—but always do the math and read the fine print first.... more
- You Still Need a Will
Even with few assets, a simple will and healthcare directive are wise steps—they protect your wishes and ease the burden on loved ones if the worst happens.... more
- He’s Going to Need You in His Life
Focus on love and support—skip the new car and buy a safe, used one with cash. Most importantly, stay present and involved in your son’s life.... more
- Wealth Magnifies What’s Already There
Wealth reveals character—raise wise, grounded kids who honor God, and your legacy will bless them far beyond any dollar amount you choose to leave.... more
- Determination and Hard Work
Stay smart and focused—avoid get-rich-quick scams, choose honest work, and use your talents to boost income and crush debt faster. You’ve got this!... more
- Preparing for the Future
In tough times, help her prepare: secure life insurance, create a will, organize documents, and ensure her kids’ future is in loving, trusted hands.... more
- Help, Don’t Enable
Help if needed, but don’t enable bad habits—get the full story first, stay united as a couple, and let your wife lead the conversation with her parents.... more
- Resolution or Determination? Make 2025 the Year You Gain Control of Your Money
Take control of your money in 2025—start budgeting, follow the debt snowball plan, and crush your credit card debt once and for all!... more
- It’s Not the Answer
Planning ahead for Christmas expenses avoids debt and stress. Budget monthly, save early, and enjoy a debt-free holiday without financial regret in January.... more
- She’ll Be Just Fine
Your mom is financially stable, and paying off her mortgage makes sense. With no house payment, she’ll need less income and can enjoy greater peace of mind.... more
- Safe and Easily Accessible
Sell the stock and keep your emergency fund liquid. Stability matters more than market risk. Then, resume 401(k) contributions to secure your future.... more
- Emergency Fund for Teens?
A teen should save three months’ worth of car expenses for emergencies. It builds responsibility and smart financial habits for the future.... more
- Approach it Like a Sales Call
Follow up confidently but not pushily. Ask for a timeline, show enthusiasm, and treat it like a sales call—demonstrating the skills they seek.... more
- Honor Your Obligations
Even small payments show effort and build discipline. Prioritize necessities, pay what you can, and stick to a budget—your finances will improve.... more
- The Game’s Not for Everyone
Colin, don’t risk your retirement for a rental. Save up, buy with cash, and start small to see if being a landlord is truly right for you.... more
- Hitting Your Goals Means Planning Your Goals
Rae, set specific, measurable goals with a deadline, make them your own, write them down, and stay focused. Small steps daily will lead to success!... more
- Compromises Are Part of Marriage
Freddie, open communication is key. Discuss your concerns honestly, listen to her feelings, and consider counseling to find a solution together.... more
- A Roadmap to Financial Peace
Stay focused, Miles! Follow the Baby Steps, stay disciplined, and you’ll achieve financial freedom. You’ve got this—your journey to financial peace starts now!... more
- Your Income is the Key
Tackle student loans in Baby Step 2. Live on a strict budget, focus intensely, and use every dollar possible to pay them off quickly!... more
- My Best Piece of Advice?
Settle with the collection agency based on your finances. The creditor may not be paid directly. Best advice: stop using credit cards altogether!... more
- Keep a Boundary in Place
Keep savings separate to avoid blurring lines with checking. Separate accounts help protect your emergency fund from unnecessary spending.... more
- When You Hit Rock Bottom
Take responsibility, get 2-3 jobs, live on a strict budget, and repay debts. Prioritize integrity and seek support from a good community or church.... more
- Imitate Successful Behavior
Wait to buy a nicer, slightly used car with cash after completing Baby Step 3. Avoid new cars unless your net worth exceeds $1M.... more
- Can They Handle It?
Including teens in budget discussions teaches them valuable money skills without overwhelming them. Keep it positive and age-appropriate!... more
- A Different Situation Than Most
Go ahead with your honeymoon! You’re financially stable, and your fiancé’s job prospects are strong. Congrats on your wedding—enjoy!... more
- Be Gentle, but Don’t Fund Financial Irresponsibility
Charles, stop bailing her out. Support her in learning better money habits, but enabling her overspending only worsens the problem.... more
- Seeing Things in a Different Way
Allison, try budgeting as a team. It’s a powerful tool to reach goals together, and small sacrifices now can lead to exciting possibilities later!... more
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