Blogging for Change

Are you disconnected?

by Kim McGrigg on
7/21/2008
in Personal Finance

Over the next three days, I am going to identify some financial styles that can keep people from achieving their goals. On the off chance you recognize yourself in one of these roles, I will also offer some simple steps to help change your financial approach. The first financial approach is what I’m calling ‘disconnected.’ Unfortunately, this is a common role for women.

It is imperative that both partners know everything about the household finances; if for no other reason than to prepare for the worst. One of the most unfair circumstances that occur on a regular basis involves women who because of divorce, separation, or the death of a spouse, discover that they are deeply in debt or cannot get the loans they need.

You might be disconnected if:

  • You want to know more about your financial situation but don’t quite know how to get the information.
  • You unaware of exactly how much you owe.
  • Major financial decisions get made without your input.

If you feel that you are too removed from your financial situation, talk to your significant other about your desire to be more involved. If there is resistance, there may be a larger issue looming and you should consider counseling.

To make progress today, review your most recent tax return and pull a copy of your credit report. If you or someone you know has a tip that can help people reconnect with their money, please share it through the comments section.

Kim McGrigg is the former Manager of Community and Media Relations for MMI.

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