I’m Living in My Car, What Should I Do?

[@probablynot1368]

During the recent ‘Great Recession’, one of my coworkers got into a horrible financial bind and for at least 6 months, he’d return to our company at about 8 pm to spend the night. He was fortunate that there were showers, a locker room, washer/dryer, an outfitted break room (fridge, microwave, dishwasher), and even a ‘bed’ to use in an operating room to use. He was divorced, but never missed his child support. One of our coworkers sat down with him and taught him how to budget his expenses, including where to trim unnecessary spending in order to begin saving money. Many of us knew he was living there in off hours, including weekends, but nobody reported him to management.

[@myBquest]

It is actually an act of empathy not to report cases like this. Did he make it though?

[@veramae4098]

While a school librarian, one of our parents divorced and ended up living in her car with 2 kids. Somehow a reporter got onto the fact that despite their desperate plight her oldest son made EAGLE SCOUT. Big story, she got lots of help and even some marriage proposals! BTW, the school didn't know until the story hit the news.

[@Xx00-c3f]

How is he making 18 in TX?

[@privateinfo1711]

We had a guy who lived in his cubicle. Security came through and thought he was dead!

[@drrush3421]

Management knew and turned a blind eye

[@RB-gt8bf]

Retired hospital RN here. He could get a job in a major medical center with his skills. The pay would be better. Once he acquires the hospital skill set he could also do PRN work at other hospitals as his schedule permits. The hospital pay in a major medical center and benefits package on top of the ability to move around to other skill sets with paid training would help. Additionally, in a major medical center with large parking lots you could blend right in and keep a low profile.

[@Fgp4991]

Is so sad that people are saying this is “normal” in the US. It talks more about a family values crisis in this country more than an economic thing. I grew up in Mexico, and there will always be a spare room at a house from an aunt, a cousin, a family friend, someone. But family will be there when someone has not even a roof over their head and will get help to get on their feet. I cant even imagine someone living in their car. I feel bad for this dude, he just sounds lonely. Loneliness is a scary epidemic in the US.

[@UTP504]

Definitely a lack of family and cultural values, Americans are extremely individualistic.

[@Michellesvintagelibrary]

The whole culture here is based on selfishness. It’s been infected by Ayn Rand philosophy for decades now.

[@smart127]

For this guy, he has chosen to stay in his car.

[@MV-ht5en]

seems like you didn't listen, he doesn't WANT to go with family, background is important. He has issues with his family. He dug a deep hole in his economy.

[@Michellesvintagelibrary]

@@MV-ht5en his family is probably nuts and would drive him insane, i think he said that

[@characteristicallyauthentic]

I started living out of my vehicle/office to pay off debt. Rents ridiculous. I’m now able to put $3000 a month towards the debt. Goals to buy land, park an RV on it while building my dream home. It’s possible.

[@Bertuzz84]

Good luck to you.

[@sopascat7]

A good plan & hope you succeed 👍

[@NSGLiv]

Good plan

[@Lino1989]

I am planning on doing so also when my lease is up. As long as you have a safe place to park I think it’s totally worth it. Sacrifice in the short term to help you reach your long term goals. Having no rent or low living costs can be a game changer. Good luck!

[@BV-Auto]

This is my exact plan, I've never been in debt tho. Cheers

[@vanessab2392]

I had problems at home too, to the point of been desperate to move out, but I couldn't afford it. So what I would do was wake up a bit before 6am, go to the gym, shower there and everything, then go to work, then go to the mall and to the library, read books, and not come back until 9 or 10pm. Then the pandemic hit and I had to stay home, it was hard, but we all had to talk our probems out, learn patience, kindness, tolerance, etc.

[@matthewmchenry9331]

No kitchen, not even a refrigerator or microwave. His income is going to food. Sad part is, he is probably being extremely frugal within his options, but thats the problem: no truly frugal options.

[@christophervandusen9405]

Just buy sandwich stuff to keep at work, when they make lunch at work make a couple extra for dinner and a peanut butter sandwich (or something) for breakfast. It might be embarrassing to be doing that stuff at work, but it's also embarrassing to be living out of your car! Weekends, they might have to do some budget friendly eating out. Just gotta be a little creative. I hope they can get out of their car before the summer heat hits in Texas! 🥵

[@matthewmchenry9331]

@christophervandusen9405 If he works at a hospital, they probably have an employee kitchen. If he works at a private dentists office, probably not. It's a huge burden to your health to be eating solely shelf-stable items as well. Definitely an emergency situation.

[@christophervandusen9405]

@matthewmchenry9331 Don't really need a kitchen for putting sandwiches together. Just need a fridge and a small table, which I can't imagine a dentist's office wouldn't have, and cabinets to put bread and any other shelf stable additions in. And hopefully, it's not a place where people like to steal food! That gets super frustrating whether financially stable or not!

[@jeretso]

Taco tuesday is $2.69 each. Non-tuesday is $3.69. Slice of pizza $4. He could work at a restaurant and get free food.

[@humpteedumptee8629]

I bought a small fire pit from Walmart for 30 bucks. It takes pellets that are 7 bucks a bag (which can last about a week if used for both heat and cooking). You then get a cheap pot so you can have make canned beans, chili, soup. Not the hardest thing to overcome. Obviously there’s more convenient options. But 3-5 bucks for a bowl of food is pretty cheap.

[@rasserfrasser]

It's never a popular thing to tell people to stop paying your credits cards, but that's what you should do if you're living in a car. You're bankrupt. Take that $500 (or however much) a month and survive. Nobody ever says that though, you need to know when/where that break even is before you're sleeping in the streets. Like, seriously. At that point you're one ignition problem away from a world of hurt. Once you reach that sub-tax level where paying them doesn't make any sense, you're in the cash only zone, buddy. Time to reboot. It's either that or you might end up talking to a flashlight at 2am about credit cards.

[@kennedyjefferson]

Exactly!! The credit cards can wait. You need somewhere to lay your head first.

[@FancyRPGCanada]

I’ve heard the Ramsey crew say stop paying credit cards many times to focus on the truly important stuff. I’m surprised they didn’t say so this time. What this dude needs to do is move to a city with public transit

[@anndeecosita3586]

Know when to hold them. Know when to fold them.

[@evoman44]

​​@@FancyRPGCanada That's would be ideal but the issue is that most cities that have a good public transit also have a higher cost of living.

[@AdamGbl95]

Our system is so screwed up. It's near impossible to get out of a hole when you're doing everything you can to make money at your job (and the opportunity is there), but struggle with intense anxiety and trauma that affects your performance and can't even get the help needed because it takes money for therapy. Taking a 2nd or 3rd job next to your full time job when you can hardly even make it at your current job is definitely not good advice. If you're physically and mentally capable of performing your job, then there's really no excuse. But I'd love to know Dave's advice for how to go out of a hole when you're stuck with no $, mental struggles, no help, and no home. That's the spot I'm in and it's pure hell

[@Carlos-zw5xb]

That's really cool that George asked about his safety!!!!

[@pieterhulsen9170]

This is the kind of caller they need to call back every 2 weeks for a few months to check in and help. First set up his budget together, then look at cutting expense and then improve his living situation

[@victorkreitner754]

If this guy had no debt and was still in the car he actually would be in a way better position. That debt following you around is just a killer. Debt always chokes the life out of you no matter what income you make. If you can pay your monthly bills and still have any money left over you're better off than 70% of people in the US. That's a serious fact in 2024.

[@drrush3421]

As a doctor, I do not agree with telling people to work 60 to 80 hours a week, weekends and nights. I do wonder if some of these personalities have had to do that, perhaps a few but not necessarily those who were able to enter these jobs through known networks if you know what I mean. If you don’t take rest, you will get sick and then that will cost you more money.

[@donnafontaine2799]

Thank you doctor for your smart advise.!

[@AngieMcdonald-fu9nh]

Its a short term solution. And seeing an immediate positive impact on living situation will offset burn out in the short term.

[@717ThrottleTherapy]

It’s temporary! Not a lifelong type of thing.

[@deb9806]

I don't think any of them have done that, maybe Jade but not dangerous things or working every moment and napping 4 hours. it screwed my sisters sleep up for decades later, it's an individual thing but she regrets it.

[@dons1177]

I did it for 3 years, I was burnt out after a couple of months but had to push through. Now I can't work at nearly the pace I could before. Burnout happens faster than people realise. Edit to add - as the OP Dr said, I also became incredible sick. Physically and mentally. When I finally gave up I spent about a month and a half sleeping. Horrible.

[@cl5193]

Ten years ago, $18 an hour would have had this guy living well. Our system is broken.

[@derekd1510]

Nooo. Kenneth is broken. He's blowing a grand a month and doesn't even know or doesn't want to say what it's on.

[@littleripper312]

In my city you'd be living in a car at $18/hour. Sadly there aren't a lot of options to move different places in canada because weather is really bad in most of the country.

[@Michellesvintagelibrary]

@@derekd1510true, but there is definitely still a problem with the way pay is not rising with cost of living and itdoes indicate that our society is in decline. He also can get a better budget. Both things are true, unfortunately.

[@SilentEire]

Inflation dude

[@Michellesvintagelibrary]

@@SilentEire yes, and inflation precedes decline and fall of a society

[@patrickjones1392]

With rates not as subsidised in ’24 and our mortgage still as high as 6.56%, we seek alternatives to maximize savings without an RV move or taking a loan. I’m seriously contemplating the latter.

[@tammystut]

Affording our mortgage is tough as well. I have suggested cashing in, renting or relocating, and investing the rest in the stock market.

[@clarisse2096]

If you can afford to relocate, you should manage the mortgage.

[@tammystut]

my Husband inherited 2 apartments but won't sell or inflate rents. Being cautious with rising costs.

[@clementdan9417]

Consider a fiduciary with mortgage-backed securities knowledge for guidance. Prices today may look like dips tomorrow.

[@tammystut]

I'd enlist a reputable fiduciary. How do I find and vet them? We value working with one n considered the idea in the past.

[@isabelbecerra9258]

Wow poor kid. Brave to be on his own by choice! If he gets through this, nothing will stop him!

[@TanManFixes]

things like this are life changers. if u get yourself into debt and no roof u can get yourself out. it won't be easy but again ....these things are life changers

[@lot2196]

"I'm living in my car". Ramsey - "Sell the car".

[@codywork-us7wu]

I looked for this the second I read the thumb nail. Thanks for the laugh

[@MaddaxxxE]

Lmao!

[@tshandy1]

Literal LOL!

[@InceRumul]

Problem solved.

[@lexalee5795]

😂😂😂😂 This The Best Comment

[@TheEGA4421]

He currently works sterlizing dental instruments? Has he applied to hospitals to work in their operating rooms' sterlizating department? He would make more money, and if he works extra he can sleep in one of the many call rooms for surgeons. Most hospitals have decontamination, sterlization and processing departments. Hospitals are always looking for people for these positions. He will make more money working nights. Even more at a level one trauma hospital. Always able to get overtime. Normally 10-12/hour shifts.

[@gwm88]

There are a ton of people that abuse government assistance programs, but this guy right here is who it is meant for. He’s not looking for any handouts, working full time and taking ownership of his actions. I’m sure there is some assistance he could apply for. This is what are tax dollars are meant for and who they should go to.

[@flawedexistence]

There is no help for a single person in the US. You gotta have kids to qualify for any assistance.

[@christinebutler7630]

Welfare is for unwed mothers with illegitimate kids, no dad to track down for child support. Childless able-bodied adults are on their own.

[@pauljansen6650]

The left fully disagrees! Must go to some minority that's doing absolutely nothing

[@jartstopsign]

He's an able bodied single man in the US working full time, we get ZERO government assistance. This is the world we live in

[@kriscasdorph7583]

My situation is almost as bad as the caller's and I make $11 an hour. I've applied for benefits and the answer is always the same: get out of my office and go die in the snow.

[@AsteroidPlease]

Times are truly rough with everything becoming so expensive. I hope this man gets out of this situation soon

[@lombardo141]

I say screw the debt for now. Get a roof first.

[@ecclairmayo4153]

Exactly the only debt he should be throwing his money at is his car loan

[@AdvocateOfJamaica]

If he doesn't tackle the debt, though, won't it snowball out of control and put him in a bigger hole?

[@ip4157]

@@ecclairmayo4153 Just dont make any more debt now

[@Teresa-ch3og]

If you have bad credit it is almost impossible to find someone who will rent to you .

[@stevenmitchell9182]

I’m starting to question these Ramsey personalities. It’s always the same advice….sell the car or work more hours. First of all, I would’ve said screw the credit cards, go find somewhere to live. He sounds very young. I’d tell him to join the service or sign with a trucking company. They pay for the CDL license, training and board.

[@redkobe5465]

yup these new guys spew out the same steps w no real life advice. thats what happens when ur just given the job with no real life experience, why we need dave back tbh

[@deliagarcia2112]

Agree

[@AimeeMarsh-m5y]

BK and find a room for rent.

[@imajhawk11]

He’s living in his car! He has no money! If he can get a lower car payment and get more income that will help in the short term! You can’t just ignore your liabilities!

[@AH23323]

These rich yuppies behind a desk what do they know about real life!

[@jasonbabilonia3037]

This broke my heart lord be with this man and help him with his situation.

[@peartfaldo]

He did it to himself......relying on living with others, then when they go on their own.....you get this. He shouldnt have a car payment ..period.

[@jasonbabilonia3037]

@peartfaldo sounds young let's give him some grace, this is definitely a wake up call

[@futurethinking]

@@peartfaldo You sounds really out of touch. Nowhere in America, you can afford to live on your own with blue collar jobs and the car payment make sense since you go cheaper on the car, it's going to cost you more in maintenance and repairs. System is broken everywhere and we need to fix the housing shortage fast.

[@hankwells2637]

@@futurethinkingmy brother this isn’t a blue collar issue, they easily make 60k + in my area for any trade. Not to mention most warehouse work pays 20-45 an hour. Dudes just got a dead end job

[@bradwilliams4921]

I wish the best for Kenneth.

[@johnrisko1856]

We wish him well...Tim Dillon

[@costco_pizza]

What kids these days don’t understand is you can make upwards of $5k-10k a month delivering pizzas and mowing lawns. This kid needs to get out there and go after his goals!!

[@polishpimp4233]

what is sad is 18.00 an hour is a pretty run of the mill wage even today. I get that people need to work overtime to get ahead... but you shouldn't have to work overtime just to make ends meet. That is disturbing.

[@ialexander032275]

This is true I've been a professional store manager for 20 years and only make $18 an hour but I have to work 50 hours a week to make a modest salary, plus quarterly bonuses. Make about 56k but can barely afford normal bills

[@ESPdigiartist]

I've lived in a car before when I fled abuse (it's a horrific nightmare but staying in a safe part of town in a car can actually be safer than a bad part of town in a house or apartment, never mind the cost of keeping a place), the idea that everything is going straight into just into survival after the debt payments is entirely realistic even if a person is going out of their way to not over spend...of course I did have insurance somewhere in that budget when I was doing that.

[@AstonM6]

Houston? Kenneth my man, get yourself a job in one of the huge hospitals in the Medical Center. Can you work in the instrument room/sterile processing? Go on the night shift so you get to park in a parking garage. If you play it right, keep your mouth shut, and be smart, you can sleep, and bathe in the hospital. (People do this.) You can keep some food in the department fridge IF your lovely coworkers don't eat it. I would recommend where I work because they are as clueless as rocks, but I can't put the name on here. It's say-ain't something. There is an apartment complex on the rail line that runs into the Medical Center.

[@PedroGomez-gu4io]

I did it for 2 and a half years in phoenix az. No fun yet I gave me a big boost.

[@sazzysabino6010]

How did you sleep in the heat

[@ip4157]

I lived in my car for a month, keep payments up, get Planet Fitness membership. Police patrol Gym parking lots to protect people living in the parking lot. During COVID there were 31 cars every night there. Volunteer in the evening at a your local soup kitchen - washing dishes for food is not a bad deal. Volunteer at a local food bank. Deliver food on Friday through Sunday for money to pay for car insurance -- car insurance more important than a roof over your head now. Churches provide plenty of free meals. I can eat every day for free if I needed to. Refuse to make more debt and get out of this right and you will never ever go in debt again. If you must rent a room. Do your best.

[@laurarose6829]

These are real solutions to this guys problems. Sounds like you will figure yourself out of any situation. I see a great future for you. Keep doing what you’re doing

[@jep1948]

@@laurarose6829 Thanks

[@laurarose6829]

@@jep1948 I think Ramsay should hire you

[@limepiper3650]

Rents are out of control.

[@DadinWA]

Hope this kid makes it! Definitely needs to increase income. stop paying on any debts. ask family/friends/non profits for temp shelter to save up, pick up side hustle. do whatever you can to ramp up savings. Wishing the best for this person!

[@Cgtlfa]

Bless this guy, he seems like a good man.

[@wheresthedeli8822]

He seems like a dope

[@andrefaaa]

He sounds clueless...

[@henrymartinezdgo]

A clueless man full of excuses for being in this situation when he’s only working 36 hrs per week in an easy job cleaning “dental supplies” maybe if he went out and searched for a big boy job he wouldn’t be in this situation.

[@Michellesvintagelibrary]

Yes, he definitely seems like he’s trying but just doesn’t know how to get out of his situation. The people saying negative things about him are idiots.

[@christophervandusen9405]

I agree with OP, seems like a decent person, just nobody ever taught him how to budget, a skill that is necessary to get a decent start in life! I think with some decent budgeting and a side hussle (or looking for a better paying job) he could get security deposit together in a decent amount of time...Hopefully before that Texas heat! 🥵

[@sm1123]

lots of ppl live in their cars. good luck man - I hope it works out for you

[@blackworldtraveler3711]

People been living in vans and cars since the 60s. I did in 80s. Just a new generation of people.

[@LM-ch8rh]

they're so compassionate, i love them for that.

[@jeretso]

How much is gym? I hope your car is reliable and good mpg. Wagon Hatchback would be easier to sleep in too. Restaurant job has food perks. Working at the gym instead of paying for gym gets you showers.

[@jjr6929]

The missing money is probably for eating food out.....unless he's cooking in the car.

[@aoropeza85]

Dude living in a car has a better grasp of his finances than 80% of the callers on this show

[@jeremiahtalkssports1832]

She asked the caller where the other $1000 out of his income is going, and he said "I have no idea". That doesn't sound like somebody that has a good grasp on their finances to me. How do you not know where that much money is going? And the guy is living in his car unfortunately and is $15,000 dollars in credit card debt. Maybe it's just me but i don't see how that qualifies as having a good grasp of his finances.

[@alejandromorazan3420]

My friend had a similar issue, but the other $1000 was going towards the weedman ​@@jeremiahtalkssports1832

[@rayj.9568]

Should ask him where be eats. Living in his car, he doesn't have anywhere to cook and prepare food. Frequenting fast food places twice a day will eat up (no pun intended) what is left of his paychecks.

[@cathy7824]

I drive a truck for a living. Pb&j, tuna, small inverter that will plug into car will run a small crockpot for soup or oatmeal. I've been doing it for 24 years.

[@cathy7824]

This young man should start driving a truck for a living. He will have a place to live.

[@chrisoo8998]

That's what I was thinking too

[@deepthinker999]

@@cathy7824 Excellent Idea and his employer will pay for training and room and board. People can live out of their trucks. The annual turnover rate in trucking approaches 100% so the employer will be grateful for someone who will stay on the job. The one caveat is that he should not lease a truck because of the financial danger so he needs to become a company driver.

[@M-Is-For-Margaret]

Yup, he has to spent his money on food, gas, laundromat and the gym. Got to eat, run his vehicle, wash his laundry and himself.

[@MrCovert23]

I’m sorry but am I the only one who thinks that these “hosts” are out of touch with normal modern day society? All their advice is terrible. Remember when they used to say work hard work over time and you’ll get to where you you wanna be? No longer true

[@amireallythatgrumpy6508]

Anything any American says ever is wrong.

[@UTP504]

They give some good advice sometimes, but they’re RICH, so of course they’re outta touch with most normal everyday working people.

[@pauljansen6650]

"Increase your income snd reduce your spending" Absolute geniuses

[@lanceledet883]

So what would be your advice "suicide"?

[@kathleenlangstaff5039]

None of these people advise filing for bankruptcy. If he did that, credit card debt vanishes. And he will get credit back. Companies know you can't file for bankruptcy again for 7 years (?)

[@lorenzovonmatterhorn7402]

Right now my friend lives in a car. I tried to make him move here but he loves it. I think he makes 45k a year. He is in his 3rd year living like this and he plans to live 7 more to get about 300k saved up. He is 27 but 7 more years of that i think it will be very bad for his health...too bad i cant make him change his mind.

[@kbthegoat824]

There was a new guy, maybe late 50s, at my job that was homeless. I would catch him in the bathroom brushing his teeth, and he had a big box on top of his jeep where he put clothes. From his story his kids kicked him out, and he was so grateful for getting the job. We had a big locker room where he would stay at night. He was also telling me how he was about to get assistance with getting his apartment..but i haven't seen him in a while, hope he's ok.

[@GAFB1122]

I would love to know why a guy in his 50s needed his kids help AND why they kicked him out. I have thoughts, and they lean toward the 50 year old's behavior and not that the kids are bad or ungrateful. DON'T DRINK EXCESSIVELY AND STAY AWAY FROM DRUGS!! Better chance of success if you follow that!

[@geigertec5921]

Probably abuses substances as a coping mechanism with the pain of aging and realizing the best years are gone. I'm only 25 and already begin feeling this. My husband and I are about to have our first baby and I still can't believe I am going to be a mother when I was just beginning my career and just five years before that was student. How is my life speeding up so fast like this and my body changing so fast it seems like only yesterday the future was so far away.

[@GAFB1122]

@@geigertec5921 You sound a bit neurotic. I mean you're 25 and already fretting about change and getting older. You will be a basket case by 40!!

[@RosE-ic8yw]

How old is he?

[@dcg590]

@@GAFB1122and then expects the tax payers to pay his bills

[@djpuplex]

Ive done it. Go to a gym parking lot and look half the lot at night is people sleeping in their vehicles. Welcome to America.

[@Scarface_445]

Yup, I see it a lot here.

[@musicman7297]

LOL 😂, you're full of it. 😂

[@blackworldtraveler3711]

Been going on since the 60s. I did in the 80s. I used the Safeway parking lot. Part of the reason I'm more of a minimalist,debt free,and live within means even though I own two homes. Many of you are noticing it now because it must be happening close to you personally but they were there all along. When I lived in my van I realized the rest of the world went on with life regardless.

[@peartfaldo]

High car payments are not America's fault. Go live somewhere else and see how you like it

[@1ButtonDash]

or they are waiting for the gym to open. Before covid when I was a gym rat I used to get there before they opened and waited till the doors opened. Not everyone is living in their cars.

[@williamflores9501]

He can work another 30 hours weekends & nights. If I was in that situation I’d be working 80 hours a week minimum

[@musicman7297]

LOL 😂, do you believe that younger generations want to work to begin with?

[@kbthegoat824]

Yupp and he probably could be sleeping at his jobs doing that.

[@FancyRPGCanada]

I’m so proud of how gentle the Ramsey crew are speaking with this person. He’s in a precarious position and they’re coaching him in a really decent way. His family life has got to be something horrible if he won’t stay there

[@johncarpenter1296]

Love how these guys say yeh your wage isn’t enough you need to make more. 😂😂 like geez I think he realizes that or he wouldn’t be calling you asking what he should do. This whole just get a better job response is so stupid like I’m sure if he could find a 30hr job that easily he would have jumped on it yesterday. These guys are so out of touch

[@denisefinney8459]

Pay rent BEFORE anything else.

[@Frost-tb9qs]

Kenneth if you’re reading this. You’ll get through this

[@M-Is-For-Margaret]

Gym membership, gas, meals, car note, insurance, laundry, might be where he's spending his paycheck.

[@drrush3421]

Gym membership becomes part of his four walls if it gives him a shower and a toilet

[@anndeecosita3586]

He doesn’t have car insurance.

[@victorkreitner754]

Even gym memberships these days are getting expensive. If they don't get you one way they'll get you another way in this world.

[@SpanishKnight1]

I lived out of my car for two years. The beauty of divorce and child support.

[@SpanishKnight1]

I now own my own home. It does get better.

[@fsmoura]

Hey, don't be so negative. At least her next husband is very thankful! 👍

[@SpanishKnight1]

@@mdk495I was an idiot when I was younger 😂

[@magic_fruit_bat5003]

No pre-nup I take it?

[@djpuplex]

​@@magic_fruit_bat5003 Prenup won't save you. She'll say get or I'll call the cops.

[@MarioLopez-rn2bs]

Never done it. But don’t feel ashamed for living in your car. You gotta do what you gotta do sometimes.

[@davidbrown4540]

I have and it was, in some ways, good for me. Taught me self-reliance, survivial skills, and such. Worked 7 days a week, eventually saved up a good amount of scratch.

[@anthonywilliams9415]

📠

[@quinnterry2834]

I feel like theres some details l missing...😐

[@sp-cn8pm]

Samesies

[@jecrpalier]

I bet a ton. He sounds like he’s on drugs man

[@mewtwomotherfuka]

I think the issue is why did the cousin decide to move. Knowingly leaving him homeless. And why arent the family members helping him. Helping him is not making him pay rent so high he cant even pay his credit cards. What happened for them to cut ties with him.​@shoneast6880

[@dappyfull]

Some is an understatement. The guy has about $1100 he can't account for. My guess is he is probably spending that money on something he is embarrassed to talk about

[@mewtwomotherfuka]

@dappyfull with mcdonalds being about 8 dollars a meal. That's basically 30 dollars a day it's not that hard to guess alot of it is going to food. Idk if he has a ebt card.

[@rbraxton00]

Drive Uber, plus work your job. I’d rather live in my car? Wow, what’s going on at that house? I hope he gets the help he needs.

[@scottnicholson1236]

I imagine a lot of that $1,000 is going to food. Hard to cook without a kitchen. I work out of a truck every day and stopping for lunch is very expensive.

[@TheDjcarter1966]

You can live off $10 a day for groceries. Just gotta get creative.

[@Babugee9]

Cooler, bread, deli meat

[@megalodon1726]

@@TheDjcarter1966 with no fridge and no stove it's going to cost more than $10/day to eat.

[@thetaekwondoe3887]

They have heated lunch boxes. You could bring leftovers. Or a cooler with sandwiches, salads, etc.

[@danamarie8718]

@@megalodon1726A lot of things don’t have to be refrigerated or cooked and are inexpensive. PBJ sandwiches, for example. Crackers and canned soup, stew or chili that can be eaten at room temperature. There are inexpensive totes that heat food by being plugged into the cigarette lighter of the car. There is probably a microwave at his job, where he can heat something up to have a warm meal on those days. There might be a refrigerator at his job where he could keep some items. Heck, you can eat for $10/day if you get a meal at the supermarket hot food area instead of fast food. It can be done.

[@chrishart8548]

$1000 on payments. The rest is the car payment and basic cost of living. I don't think he will ever live in a house again. $18 even with overtime wont be enough.

[@donaldlyons17]

Yeah $18 an hour is the bare minimum in my area to rent from almost any one and any apartment. And we don't know his hours if hourly and in addition we have no idea his rental history which might prevent places from considering him!!!! Not sure if his income is just way to low because the options math wise are not obvious!!!

[@victorkreitner754]

If he was in the same scenario with 0 debt on his credit cards he'd be in a totally better spot alone. How many times have we heard on Ramsey with people making 6 figures and their debt was literally destroying them, and they weren't living in cars. Debt is like living a slow death, it's death before actual death itself.

[@oldfordman68]

Roof, lights, water, food are priority credit cards can wait

[@lindawilson4625]

This guy needs a trusted competent adult to look at his situation and advise him. I think he can get out of this without moving in with relatives. I'm picking up a vibe from him that makes me think that is not a good option. I wish him luck!

[@wonderingthoughts926]

The thing we always overlook with credit card debt is what did you spend it on? It’s a question that’s rarely asked, because we just accept that people spend too much until they basically can’t borrow anymore. It’s almost funny that we live in a system that even allows it to happen!

[@Excalibur2]

The reason I'm sure that they don't ask is that it doesn't matter at this point, plus, they'd probably go on and on about how they needed whatever they spent it on.

[@nathano148]

Know two who did this. Rent was 1600.00 vehicle payment is 400-500 so easy live in car, work, take care of your health, eat healthy, fruits. 18hr is 2000-2200 take home. Taxes you claim zero.

[@Scarface_445]

Wish Dave was there. They gave him copy paste advice and no emotional support like Dr. Delony. If he reads this: 1. Write how much debt, and expenses. 2. Call repeatedly or show up in person to a fast food joint. Get the job, cover shifts, let the manager know you really need hours. Most male managers I had love to abuse your time, BUT also have a good heart and will work you like a race horse if they see you want it. 3. Finish paying off that debt in the card by buying food at Walmart (I’m talking canned chicken, bread, hot sauce, and water.) you’ll also get free food if you work in fast food. 4. Once you’ve used ALL that extra money from expenses and reducing costs, save up a quick deposit. 5. Move into a shared room 6. Don’t fukn ever use a credit card again. You suck at them. 7. Begin paying off that car, and you’ll look back on this one day and see you can handle anything in life!

[@Scarface_445]

I say this as a guy who ate ramen, Mac n cheese, microwave spaghetti + canned sauce for a year. I mooched off my gf at the time for a ramen stir fry and worked at Taco Bell to pay off my loans. (I would take good home and not cook.) I got fat, BUT paid off all the debt. (Over 16k). I then hit the gym, ate right and lost 20 lbs, now I’m 2 years later. Great gym body (chunkier at times , lean af others), I make 4x what I use to make, paid off car, own place, degree, and I don’t eat ramen or cup Mac n cheese anymore 🤣🤣🤣

[@Geo_mmm]

Yeah Dave would give the caller better financial advice and Dave probably better understands the common life struggles the caller is dealing with

[@costco_pizza]

There are a lot of opportunities out there. You can make upwards of $5,000-$10,000 a month delivering pizzas and mowing lawns. This kid needs to get out there and go after his goals!

[@dennischiapello7243]

I agree this guy could have benefited if Delony was there. He sounds really beaten down and on the edge.

[@macneoh7418]

Good advice. He needs to get his income up dramatically and work 60-80 a week to get on his feet.

[@aaronblankenship6327]

I know it sucks, but sell plasma for 6 months. Good money per hour for maybe 2 hrs each visit max.

[@Mel-tw6qv]

Kenneth we are rooting for you.

[@luvinchocolate]

Its sad that $18 is not enough anymore. The number 1 thing, is people dont budget. They spend spend spend and say whered alll my money go. He probably could save a lot with just naming every dollar. Car insurance is such a scam, required by law, but would be the least of my worries until i get on my feet.

[@samuelstrachan2726]

Summer is coming. There are plenty of jobs at camp ground, parks, fishing lodges, ext. that pay well and provide room and board.

[@Scarface_445]

You’ve got this man, it’s gonna be a hard season. But I also understand the pride and horrible emotional baggage from family. I work 3 jobs now, I berly manage. But you do what you gotta do man! I’ve had hard seasons too, good seasons aswell! This too shall pass, but for now. Survive and get through this!

[@Hellokitty7163]

The hosts do not seem equipped handle this

[@DorothyM45]

I thought the same, Rachel wants to crawl under the table.

[@Michellesvintagelibrary]

Unfortunately, that was my impression as well.

[@isabelbecerra9258]

The hosts don’t know what it’s like to hit rock bottom and alone in the world!

[@drrush3421]

For some of these people and cases, they should give the host some preparation time. Can be hard to think on your feet on these things.

[@FancyRPGCanada]

Maybe not but they’re being very gentle and understanding.

[@alangonzalez5198]

Call got too real too quick. Ramsey people weren’t ready for it lol. There’s more Kenneths out there in the world. Hope they can figure it out asap.

[@MarioLopez-rn2bs]

For real. They were sort of stumped and had this “sounds like you’re f’d” sentiment. That guy has no choice but to bear his situation for the time being

[@vasco1610]

they're useless. he doesn't need to work 3 fucking jobs, he needs to find out first and foremost where the money is going. how is it possible that he doesn't know, when he's struggling as much as he is. there's only two explanations, he knows where the money is going but didn't want to say, cause it's probably an addiction, alcohol, drugs, gambling, etc... or he really doesn't know, and if that's the case, he's truly fucked, cause if he can't even keep track of 2000 dls when he's struggling to survive, he's completely lost, maybe forever. 1000 for debts where's the other 1000 going, can't you pay for a bed at a hostel or share a room somewhere for 500 or 600 and you've got 400 left to eat. he doesn't need to be living in his car. I hope he finds a way out, but I'm not sure if it's going to be the premium version of their app that's gonna do it...

[@mrjack8849]

I feel like they didn't help this guy out much. Rachel is pretty useless in most cases as she just spouts out her dad's steps from the book each time. I think people will be surprised about how many people are living out of a car these days, especially in big cities like Houston where Kenneth is. With that said, there are so many job openings right now where employers need people to do basic tasks and simple show up when they are scheduled to work. If you can do that at this point, you may be ahead of half of the workforce at fast food restaurants and big box stores. Kenneth really isn't helping himself out if he is just sitting around on the weekends. $14k in debt is a lot, but at least he isn't carrying $100k in student loans like some people do.

[@redkobe5465]

yea her and hade just spew out the same steps each time no real substance or advice at all. this why we need dave to not retire lol his show aint the same without him. miss the older personalities like anthony and hogan giving good genuine advice

[@chrisoo8998]

Yeah I was thinking the same she didn't really help at all

[@chrisoo8998]

​@redkobe5465 yes your right I miss hogan he had very good knowledge

[@beng4647]

Finally the normal people are calling.

[@1ButtonDash]

the fact that this is suppose to be normal is scary

[@peartfaldo]

The Biden normal. Bidenomics baby. It's working

[@leatharay3565]

Our rent has gone from 821 to 1095 a month. We have been here 8 yrs. I kinda feel for him.....

[@andrefaaa]

Lol its not normal

[@beng4647]

@@peartfaldo You must be 12. The rest of us see a pattern.

[@maxhatty]

Eating while living out of a car can be expensive. I'd bet that's where a lot of the other 1k is going.

[@alanm500]

That was my thought as well

[@chuckdameron5626]

He can save money on eating eat peanut butter and jelly and tuna fish and get a large pizza you can get a large pizza for 10 dollars and you can eat on that for 2 days

[@anthonywilliams9415]

yup

[@ecclairmayo4153]

That's right. It's tough because everything is pre made since you can't cook. It's expensive to be poor

[@ESPdigiartist]

It's pricey, but the difference won't pay the utility bill on a place let alone the rent

[@kastanymusica]

People seem to forget it’s never just rent, it’s all the bills associated with living in a building. Rent itself is crippling but there’s also gas, water and electricity bills, plus council tax and some kind of wifi plan (even if that’s just your mobile). It all adds up so quickly.

[@Boombox-vw5mt]

I like how the guy isnt patronizining him or getting over emotional. Hes respectful and giving him practical advice. Too humble of a perspective or attitude for some degree holders. People dont need you to patronize them, they need you to help them.

[@danieldoucet9121]

Something Dave doesn't do. Instead it's "You gonna have ta live on rass 'n' beeuns beeuns 'n' rass, sell the car, you'll be workin' too many jobs to need a place ta sleep anyway. Oh well, back to one of my mansions and kissing god's ass thanking him for my undeserved fortune."

[@justinbowman2126]

@@danieldoucet9121Dave is a super generous guy. He donates his time and money to many good causes. He can’t donate money to every random person who calls in with a sad story.

[@ryancaldwell9463]

Watch van/car life videos on how to do it well enough and survive. Then bang out the debt and start saving.

[@SeniorNI]

My advice would be default. Tell them your homeless token payments. Use every dollar to stockpile cash. Then get renting. Homeless living is worse than bad credit.

[@almostemptynester777]

Some people choose to live in their cars and they enjoy it. They do it to save a lot of money. There are worse things in life to have happen to you. I'm glad ge actually had a car to be able to retreat to.

[@gsyarber]

Bro. F the credit cards. If you have some credit left use that for living expenses. When u save up enough for apartment do a bankruptcy, wait as long as possible for this. Forget the debt. Get out of your car

[@itscalledlogic7]

Bankruptcy for $30k??

[@Michellesvintagelibrary]

You might have trouble getting an apartment without good credit though.

[@TanManFixes]

I say continue living in the car. working 35 hours isnt cutting it. get a side hustle, maybe work for amazon. that will be 300-400 more per week, call it 1400 a month. the debt should be a hard lesson. makes you want to NEVER do it again, after busting your ass to pay it off. do not rely on others to save you. THIS is your moment of hard work and redemption.

[@rillawhat8142]

Living in his car, fast food will easily eat through $1,000 a month

[@midsummernightsdream60]

you can live off one meal a day if you eat at 2pm. $10 meal equals $300 per month

[@rillawhat8142]

@midsummernightsdream60 CAN! ...but very few will

[@pauljansen6650]

​@@midsummernightsdream60laundry, gym membership, water, drinks, clothing, shoes, going out once or twice at least, fuel Think a bit first

[@evoman44]

That's true. He could cut on his eating expenses by getting a camping stove and cooking at a local park.

[@texasgoddess323]

Keeping non-perishables in his car, like canned spaghetti, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, fresh fruit, and drinking mainly water would help. Also, he can watch YT videos to see how other ppl live in their cars. I’m with him and would rather live in my car in peace than in a toxic family situation!

[@buuzy252]

The first option is he stops making payments then once he has some cash saved on the side, he can then make his payments again.

[@hendrikkoopman3570]

Life has gotten very challenging

[@TanManFixes]

that's true but so was 2008 so I don't count our current economy even close to that

[@FAFO101]

In this situation best thing to do is to go drive OTR trucks, apply for a job (Swift, CR England) they will train you for free and give you CDL. Live in a truck and work at the same time, make 80k a year and save money, buy a house in 3-5 years.

[@GuruChaz]

If he's also eating fast food to survive, that gets expensive. I bet that's where a lot of his excess money is going. Inflation is a mess.

[@mrjack8849]

That is true. But its hard to cook anything when you don't have a place to cook. He could get a job a fast food place pretty easily I think. Places are so desperate to hire people who can show up on time and complete basic tasks without somebody having to tell them everything. Even if he has no experience in that job.

[@blackworldtraveler3711]

People eat fast food when hungry. Plenty of other options. Saying it's surviving is a first world issue.

[@motoryzen]

Well Bogo at McD's a few bacon Mc doubles...just because there are 10 to $20 combo meals at fast food doesn't mean you have to buy the expensive items

[@GuruChaz]

@@mrjack8849 But will a fast food place generate enough income for him to get a place to live, utilities, car payment, insurance, etc? He may need to suck it up and go back to family, work his current job, and learn a new career skill that pays.

[@GuruChaz]

@@blackworldtraveler3711 I just don't think he's budgeting properly. Just saying it's a first world issue means you don't care that he's in this position...or maybe anybody. If you have advice, give it. If you just want to chastise, then maybe you have a problem.

[@summerjoy247]

I feel like Dave would say pay your rent, food, and transportation first and whatever else is left put toward those stupid credit cards. Personally I would consolidate those credit cards as much as possible or find a promotional balance transfer rate to cut cost a little. 🙏🏽

[@Geo_mmm]

This young man has so much potential. DEBT is what has his life a mess right now and millions of Americans across this country have similar problems. $16,000 total car payment on a car valued at $12,000 is one thing holding him back. His car should’ve been payed off

[@micktheman6]

I’ve been living in my car for 8 years it’s been a good life I save a ton of money and I travel a lot. This isn’t bad

[@JoJo-zl7qh]

It’s becoming more and more common. I live in my car. I have arthritis to the point where I can’t put weight on my knees at all anymore so I’m using a wheelchair to get around now. Plus, I can’t use my right hand for more then a minute or so at a time without pain in my hand and wrist, and tingling in my fingers. That really limits job options. I’m still thankful I can drive, even if I can only do it in short bursts. All it takes is some type of medical issue or an emergency and your living in your car. I’ve met thousands of people in a similar situation to me online. Many have ssi which isn’t enough to have a roof over your head anymore. Life is not easy right now for many.

[@WhatShallEyeDo4U]

Yeah... They need Dave, back... This wasn't cutting it, to be honest.

[@susananderson1071]

A homeless shelter may be a good start. Some have programs to help find an additional job, you're given meals, bed, showers, laundry, and programs for each individual.

[@kriscasdorph7583]

Shelters are hellscapes. People will steal the shoes and socks off your feet while you try to sleep.

[@jonathanracer6363]

They should have asked “ where is the money you used to pay in rent” this man should have been saving that money up.

[@ESPdigiartist]

Something tells me he was living rent free before

[@CodyO-vf9mu]

I lived in my car for a year collecting $2000 a month from G.I. Bill taking online classes. Visited every state in the west - it was good for my soul.

[@denisefinney8459]

I am concerned that there is addictive behavior on his part, or financial abuse and exploitation from an outside source.

[@MV-ht5en]

he didn't want to say where half his income goes, huge red flag

[@thehungrywolf69]

STOP paying the credit cards. Go pay rent at your family’s place. Then focus on increasing your income. Then ATTACK your credits cards.

[@carterbaumer358]

I wish more people would stop leasing vehicles. Calling the car you owe $16,000 on "yours" is far from it being yours. I recommend purchasing a vehicle outright

[@dianejacobson9367]

That’s what I did, and my hand didn’t even shake! Feels good not having debt.

[@eagle2742]

The fact he’s working on the debt snowball and enduring this situation and concerned about his emotional well being is admirable - wonder if there is a local church he could connect with if he’s not already doing so - to help with a hand to get him up onto the dock --

[@freewifi7163]

Living in your car is not cheap. You can easily spent a $1000 on food and gas in a month

[@jml9550]

Food is the biggest expense. Personally I would live at home assuming it is not toxic. Paying rent and cook at home is much cheaper than living out in a car. Physically and mentally.

[@butchthurman4685]

I've got a couple more paid off houses to sell. Then I will be living full-time in my 1997 f150. I can not wait.

[@listerinr]

These 2 have never been close to this situation, look at them floundering to give this poor guy some decent advice.

[@sopapilla9512]

Yeah the shocked faces of someone working full time making $18/hr living out of their car. Rent prices here in Houston are ridiculous

[@WoodlandDance]

Agree. Her advice to go live with Toxic Family? Not helpful at all.

[@kennykuhns9843]

The lender for his car loan is covering the insurance at a higher premium. There goes a big chunk of money.

[@glendasexton4777]

American tragedy people just can’t afford to be in their own anymore

[@dappyfull]

$18/hr with a 40 hour work week works out to about $2800 gross income a month. Taking out taxes, he's left with about $2300. The credit card minimum payments, car payments, insurance and gas is about $1000. He is still left with roughly $1200. He can't rent a room for even $400-$500 a month?? Something doesn't add up. He needs to keep track of his expenses/spending. You can't solve a problem if you don't understand what the problem is in the first place

[@JL-fo9rz]

It's so sad that in America, even with a full-time job, you can't afford rent.

[@kaydublin5164]

Thank Biden

[@donnafontaine2799]

It's outrageous...very sad 4 this country

[@anndeecosita3586]

He also dug himself into a hole. Sounds like he didn’t save anything while living with cousin and bf.

[@terribels]

Living in the car doesn't sound too bad nowadays. There are some videos out there that actually offer tips on how to live in a car. Some are making it work and actively seek it. But I understand that choosing to living in a car is different from being forced to live in it. I wish the best for the guy.

[@kdel45]

There are more and more people living in their vehicle these days. It is not that uncommon, unfortunately.

[@peartfaldo]

Bidenomics is working. Yeah buddy