My Settlement Check From USC | May Budget Check In 2020 | Aja Dang

[@nomipyar]

Maybe it’s just me but... I hate the ‘premiering’ videos on YT. I get so excited to see content and then realize it’s not even available yet. Bummer. Anyway, I’ll check back later to watch :) love your vids Aja!

[@ykook7000]

YES same especially when lm on the other side of the world ...and the premier time is 3AM...err no thanks...😪😴

[@joymae]

I know, I have tried it on my videos and it doesn't really work well for my audience so i think I will stop. Thanks for sharing your opinion about the topic!

[@AjaDang]

I enjoy doing them for financial videos because we can chat together about the episode live but if the consensus is that no body likes premiere videos then I can stop

[@agirlwithajournal]

@@AjaDang I think it makes me more aware that there will be a video but I am also frustrated if I am too early.

[@AjaDang]

@@agirlwithajournal maybe if I set the premiere just a couple minutes before the live time instead of the night before?

[@lilychiang12]

Also, great job on the $1 tax refund. That speaks volumes of how great you and your CPA is at estimating and paying your quarterly taxes! I don't see it as a bad thing that you've never received a tax refund. That means you were able to hold onto more cash instead of giving the government an interest free loan.

[@LindaKaizer]

I'm glad to hear that you are saving money to protect yourself in case of a breakup. No one wants to brake up (while in a good relationship of course), but one of the worst situations you could be in is when you can't afford to break up. Good job! And frame that 1$, that is some accurate tax-payment.

[@elliecbron]

I would only consider Invisalign debt if I can’t pay it off in full if I wanted or I was being charged interest on it.

[@africanlily6107]

Ellie Bron Same is want to pay it in cash. I use to have braces but they neglected to tell my mom she should wait until my wisdom teeth came in but they told her with my other two siblings. Now my bottom teeth are crooked 🤦🏾‍♀️

[@melaniebonilla9996]

My condolences for your loss, Aja. Your grandma is literally embedded in your DNA so you’ll always carry her with you. I pray your helped with strength during this hard time 💕 you’re doing amazing ❣️

[@Kiracollier]

You’ve had a very rough month! 😔 hang in there hun, you’re on top of your finances so at least you know you’re doing all you can money wise. I’ve been very anxious during this all and really sometimes being a couch potato and cuddling with ur man does wonders 🙃 you’re not alone, there’s this quote I read and it went something like everything will be okay in the end, if it’s not okay, it’s not the end ❤️ we’re all a bit overwhelmed at the moment, take it day by day and try not to focus too much on the things you have no control over, who knows, maybe those businesses will start up again after this is over 😊😘 lots of love, Kira

[@Rocioslane]

Jesus, so sorry to hear about your grandma - you literally just mentioned her in one of your videos. Thank goodness you were able to go to the funeral

[@MKS73636]

This premiere thing always disappoints me as I get excited to watch a new video then I have to wait.

[@ameliamildenberger9113]

I'm so sorry to hear about your Grandma Aja. Grandparents are so special and it's always so sad when they have to leave us. I'm happy that you were able to see her. Much love from Canada!

[@alexandralord3679]

I’m so sorry your family had to go through losing your grandma during this time. I’m glad you were still able to say goodbye to her❤️

[@zulyterrazas6791]

I’m sorry for your loss and what you’ve gone through overall. We keep supporting a mom and pop Chinese food restaurant because of you. I kept recommending it to my mom. They were struggling so much at first due to panic and we went yesterday and they had a socially distanced line out the door. ❤️

[@trainrides9215]

Really sorry to hear about your Grandmother ❤️ I’m about 1/3 of the way with my emergency fund, and I believe I can get it all done in the next 6 months which is exciting!

[@MissGammons]

I’m sorry to hear about the loss of your grandma. My grandma passed away in April as well and it’s just heartbreaking. Congratulations on your next financial goal (savings) 🥳

[@Kate__123]

I really appreciate how candid you are about things! Shit is tough right now and it’s very refreshing that you’re not pretending that it is.

[@iluvzevon]

So incredibly sorry to hear about your grandmother. Hope you're still staying safe and home!

[@rebeccacuthbertson1271]

I'm so sorry for everything you've been going through. Wishing you guys all the best. Stay safe and healthy the best you can.

[@TheChellaBella3]

Historically can attest that I am a ghost viewer/subscriber. I love your videos though! But I work in development for a solar energy company, and part of my job is literally energy bill analysis. A good way to see if your utility bill savings is Arcadia or usage is to compare the kWh consumed on your bill this month compared to last few months! If they’re mostly the same or there is less than a 20% difference, it’s the Arcadia! Hope this helps ❤️

[@AjaDang]

cool! I'll definitely check that out. Thanks

[@valeriedayanghirang]

Hey Aja, my grandpa who has dementia passed yesterday. I totally understand and it's even more difficult having the virus restrictions. Condolences and prayers to you

[@katiefrolichman]

Omg Aja, I am heartbroken at hearing the news of your grandmother's passing!!! Sending you so much love during this time. You're an amazing person and I'm sure your gma and mother were grateful that you said goodbye.

[@mwyoung07]

My sincerest condolences for your great loss! Certainly tough to have to make these decisions during these unprecedented times. For your $1 tax refund check, I would suggest donating it to any of the funds for rent/food as a lot of families are struggling during this time. It's not a lot but every bit helps.

[@anna_reads862]

Once in my 7 years of living in NYC, New York City refunded me $4 after taking out thousands (on top of state and federal taxes) 😂😂 made me think of that old commercial "I caught you a dollar!" Enjoy your $1 Aja!

[@C_Beaty]

Maybe instead of calling it something like "April/May budget" you could call it your ""May budget check-in?"

[@AjaDang]

cute! I like it.

[@keke7945]

April review/May plan

[@emilyspecter9532]

Even if you want to consider the Invisalign as debt, unless you're charged interest or some fee for doing monthly payments I don't think it really matters.

[@tolufrimpong]

I actually got excited thinking it was the actual video! Don't play these games with me 😂 I guess I'll be back on 30 minutes!

[@ihama99]

🤭🤭🤭

[@amathisporter]

I consider Invisalign debt because you owe money and it’s something that can either be paid in full or put into a payment plan. I had to get dentist work done last year and had to do a payment plan. That’s debt to me.

[@lilychiang12]

I'm so grateful that you and your family had the opportunity to say goodbye to your grandmother. I'm so sorry for your loss.

[@nhot769]

I’m sorry to hear about your grandmother Aja. Thanks for the content during these times.

[@SL-lz9jr]

Renter's insurance... if you own a car, try getting a quote for renter's insurance through the same agent/insurance company. You will most likely qualify for a credit (for bundling insurance products) which will more than offset your renter's insurance premium (I know someone who did that and practically paid nothing for his). I don't drive and I live in NYC and only pay $150 for a year of renter's insurance ($500 deductible, $25K personal property, $20K-ish loss of use). The Loss of Use is what prompted me to purchase renter's insurance because if you can't live in your apartment (let's say, due to a fire or burst pipe that flooded the entire place), and you don't want to live in some emergency shelter... your emergency housing costs will add up quickly. Not to mention the cost of replacing everything... so... get that insurance! As for whether Invisalign is debt or not... I personal don't have any experience with it (even though I do want to get it, along with Lasik surgery) but I just don't have the money for it. I mean, I have the money for it, but that's my life savings and right now vanity isn't important enough to take a huge chunk of my savings for (because, for me, Lasik surgery and Invisalign would be for vanity, not health reasons). That said, I think it depends on how the payment structure is set up. If missing a payment could hurt your credit score or result in some sort of financial penalty and you don't have the finances to pay it all off up front, that sounds to me like it would qualify as "debt". For me, if I can spread something out into smaller, interest free payment, but I know I have enough funds to pay it off in full at any time, I don't consider it debt. I consider it just another regular "bill".

[@S-R-H]

I have Invisalign and I do consider it debt. I owe a certain amount and a payment comes out of my account every month. If I quit paying my health insurance, nobody is coming after me. I just don’t have health insurance. If I quit paying my Invisalign, my credit gets screwed and they will come after me.

[@ToriUptown]

my condolences to your family. 💕 you made my tear up. Grandmas are the best. it’s my gma’s bday today and i’m across the country.

[@AjaDang]

happy birthday to your gma

[@SujeitChacon]

Scan the check and make it into digital artwork? Like obviously photoshop sensitive information out but also add stuff or replace that info with something else. Like a political piece or a manifestation piece that one day, you'll get a bigger refund.

[@AjaDang]

dannnngggg that's a great idea

[@karlalara2558]

I would totally participate in the series of helping with the budget. Unfortunately I’m on my week and two days of unemployment. Thankfully I have enough saved for 2-3 months of monthly bills but my debt has been placed on hold.

[@KrnCrftn]

Girl - your hair has gotten sooooo long! 😍 you are going to give Rapunzel a run for her money soon! 🙌🏻

[@AjaDang]

i knooowww. I'm actually ready to cut it haha

[@KrnCrftn]

@@AjaDang DO NOT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@xspxmcrxfftlx]

Frame the $1 like mr krabs

[@elizabethramirez6528]

yasss!!

[@califodays8765]

Agree! FRAME IT GIRL!!

[@Clover2016]

So sorry about your grandma passing, glad you and your family were able to be there. 💕

[@p0keDAmo0seyXD]

Hey Aja, I am so sorry about the tough month you have had. It's a bummer for sure to see places you love not be able to make it. I hope in some capacity they are able to rebuild later in life. I just had to take both my kitties to the vet this week as well. I empathize with that stressful situation for the first time now...made even more stressful by COVID. My vet was not allowing owners inside, so I had to wait in my car while they were being taken care of. We will get through this and I hope the upcoming months go much better for you. Sending hugs!

[@AjaDang]

that's what my vet did as well. Honestly didn't hate it - saved me $20 in parking.

[@deannacampbell9838]

I love your videos. Not many people talk about finance so openly. I do agree that every woman should have savings or the ability to pay for things just in case they find themselves single. I never want to depend on another person's finances to make ends meet. I finally have a stable job, good income, and can make contributions to my student loans and pay for all my bills. I'm one payment away from getting rid of credit card debt. Feels good to be on the right track finally!

[@Kennedybramer]

I love how real you are Aja. You're such an inspiration and I appreciate how you share and what you share. It shows your reliability and it's amazing. Keep doing what you're doing! Would love to be a part of that video

[@boycieism]

My grandmother passed away in April too, we just had her cremation today. Remember the happy times, condolences.x

[@bethallenia]

boycieism sorry for your loss x

[@kt_rvs2731]

I'm so sorry about your grandmother ❤

[@celinemiranda-lagunilla7719]

Please keep doing this Aja! It inspires me in keeping myself financially in check 🥰❤️

[@StefanUrkel]

Aja be lookin like Lil Tay yo. You should flex with that $1 refund too! It's actually good that you don't get big tax refunds, because that means you are basically overpaying and giving the government an interest free loan until you receive your refund. As for emergency funds for your pets, I've come to believe that it's better to set money aside for if/when they need surgery or something else that is costly like that, rather than pay into a pet health insurance plan. My family was paying into such a plan for over 2 years and when it came time for our dog to have an eye surgery, the health insurance plan only would pay like 65-75% of the bill. We put in more than that over 2 years. So that's why I lean towards creating your own emergency pet fund vs paying into a pet health insurance plan.

[@sharnepillar2295]

I have Invisalign and since I’m doing a payment plan I consider it debt. If I paid it in full I wouldn’t but because it’s something I have to pay off over a period of time I do. I feel this is differentiated from insurances because it’s a tangible thing I’ve chosen to do for myself and doesn’t reduce costs if some thing health/vehicle related does come up in the future Interested to hear other people’s thoughts on this

[@Katscapade]

Prayers for you and your family ♥️ I miss my grandma too.

[@queens6583]

So sorry for your loss Aja. My mother-in-law is 104 and has dementia and no longer knows any of us anymore. She lives in an Assisted Living /Dementia unit and here in NYC she has been on lockdown since March and we not allowed into the facility. They zoom with us once a week so we can see her but she does not communicate with us. We have decided as a family that if she passes only my husband and I will attend the graveside service with only the Rabbi. It is too unsafe to have family travel from all over the country and we are not allowed to have gatherings of more than 10 people, even for funerals. They actually do Zoom funerals, who knew? Strange times that's for sure. Glad to see that you guys are healthy.

[@erikaroldan4889]

Stay strong aja 💛💛 you are doing amazing. Thank you so much for sharing your month!! Appreciate you and your videos

[@curlyprincesa]

Sorry for your lost💔 I lost my grandma last September, so I definitely understand your pain 🙏🏽

[@adrianadascalu5908]

For your $1, I'd say save and invested for laughs, but... Since times are as they are... Buy soap. or hand sanitizer. ;) Stay safe, Aja!

[@maggiemcloughlin184]

I love the idea of discussing different people's budgets. It can be a money diary series. Have you thought about comparing different budgets in different countries? For example, I live in the UK and my budget can be very different to a US resident's. The same levels of difference may apply to my family who lives in China. Personally, I love seeing the differences. By the way, I love your budget videos Aja! I have been following you for two years and I really do find your videos very empowering. Thank you and keep up the good work!

[@sharonwilliams271]

So sorry for your loss. At least you got to see her before she passed.

[@katiekennedy8701]

Oh Aja, I am so sorry about your grandma 💖

[@hanlinp3725]

Not sure if you know this or not, but you can call your car insurance and let them know you have not been driving as much due to quarantine. They can reduce your monthly payments.

[@AjaDang]

that's a good tip! I pay my all my insurances in full when it's due so they lucked out with me I guess

[@NoraTKD]

I am sorry to hear about your grandmother Aja...It must have been difficult. I hope that you and your family are doing well!

[@Jweeee1111]

I’m sorry for your loss and tough month, Aja. But can’t wait for the new budget series coming up 💕!! So excited

[@pestyd4057]

Personally I'd consider Invisalign as either debt or an expensive purchase. From what I understand you can't stop the payment (if for example you lose all income), versus you should be able to stop health/car insurance if absolutely necessary (pay a couple of months and that's it). If you can pay Invisalign in full, then of course its not debt, just an expensive purchase. But if you lose your income and can't pay Invisalign what happens? If it goes to collections/or it has any impact on your financial history (i.e. credit score) then it's debt.

[@michikoxo]

I am catching up on all the videos I missed and you mentioned the video series you had in mind about helping people budget! That's such a great idea. If I could suggest maybe if you want to also interview or feature people who already have a budget and a system that works for them? It'd be interesting to see how diff people find diff things that work for them. 💜 Please stay safe and healthy! I'm sorry 2020 hasn't been the best year for us.

[@stephbianco1325]

I'm so sorry for your loss. Please don't feel guilty for traveling to see her.

[@AntiKristTeddyBear]

Another great budget review with you, albeit definitely filled with a lot of highs and lows. My condolences with the passing of your grandma, and I understand your discomfort/mixed feelings regarding that settlement check--there were definitely a lot of layers associated with that in the way you tried to explain it. But I'm really excited for this budget series you'll be doing with viewers! I'm definitely taking this time to make some great financial moves based on the conversation brought on by your journey, so it'll be great to see that happen with even more people.

[@Jenny-gx4th]

You got this Aja!! Keep up the good work 💪💪💪

[@nomipyar]

Watching now! I think setting the premier at a later date is a great idea!! - so sorry for your loss. 💜

[@juulphilippart9612]

Looking forward to the videos with your viewers and their budgets. Hope some people are bold enough to do this with you. ❤️

[@carleywasechek2214]

My grandma also added away recently, sorry for your loss ♥

[@katmiranda7809]

My condolences to you and your family Aja!

[@Mm-oq6xn]

I just love your videos. they are all so worth to watch and listen. Thank you so much for sharing your journey.

[@iamlookingfornarnia]

Maybe consider donating that check to a advocacy group? I understand it feels icky, but.. I feel you, no judgement with what ever you do with that money. Aja, your videos are really helping out a lot of us. Hopefully when I finish school, I can get the kind of money like you to not worry so much.

[@mikailagray]

My grandmother passed away to in March not covid related but we also had to travel from Ohio to North Carolina. At the time Ohio was already pretty shut down but luckily NC wasn’t yet.

[@frkrossing8043]

That 1 doller is a first and a WIN just like being debt free. So I wood frame it 😄👏🏻 Just what to share my win, 30 April I got DEBT FREE 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 because I am in self isolation, I had no Champain, so I did a shot with my friend over the phone 😄 I sorry for your loss, sending you a big hug ❤️

[@madelinepark7944]

If there is no interest added then it isnt debt IMO for eg. I could pay $1500 for my car insurance but if I pay $125/month instead of a lump sum it makes no difference. if you are paying more in the end though vs a lump sum... it is def. debt!!

[@tanyabc]

I hope May will be a better month for you! And I agree about not categorizing Invisalign / Insurance as debt since those companies will never charge you interest. Even more the case with insurance since it's a constantly renewing bill, it's more like a utility.

[@pourpeopledrinks]

Invisalign I would consider an expense, not a debt; its a recurring payment you make monthly, like your other recurring payments (insurance, etc). But if you fall behind on your payments and can no longer pay, that would be considered debt.

[@mwise-kaawa6959]

Update on the Arcadia app that I've been researching with your recommendation: they arent supporting the app anymore, only online. Your bill can only go down if you live in a state that doesnt have standard rates across the state: California, Connecticut, the District of Columbia, Delaware, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Montana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Texas

[@ivymadenhennion8108]

I'm so sorry for your grandma's loss. :( Love you!

[@HEYYaly]

I love these videos and how open and honest you are with us!

[@ConnieBTV]

I love Aja's videos and listening to her voice.I feel inspired to do budget videos now ☺️

[@adriennenicole14]

Hey Aja! SO sorry to hear about your grandmother. Wishing you some peace as you grieve. Can you share how much the dog allergy test was? Excited for your new budget breakdown for a lucky viewer! Thanks for all your sharing on your channel. Lots of love to you

[@heyitsjujuu]

So sorry about your Grandma! May she rest in peace. I don't think Invisalign is a debt, if it's interest free payments. It's health expense in my opinion if you have the funds for it. Also maybe consider a car maintenance sinking fund? Idk if it's necessary because you did detailing one-time.

[@unapologeticallymj]

You should put the cheque in a frame - the frame will probably cost for than the cheque is worth though haha

[@vazq_Fernanda]

I don’t consider things like Invisalign debt if you have the money to pay for it in full set aside, and you choose to pay in installments. It’s only debt if you don’t have money to pay for it and you ‘borrow’ time to pay it back. If however, you have the money set aside and then you are forced to use it for something else, then it does become a debt.

[@SweetMelin213]

So sorry for your loss. 😥

[@MyRandomWonderland]

I'm so sorry for your loss. Thank you for your video!

[@daydreamer415]

Cash your check through your bank app. Go The Dollar Store and buy a picture frame and frame the check.

[@fegrace_1]

Congrats on your refund🥳. Maybe look into donating your money to a charity where $1 goes a long way. Or buy penny stocks and do a video series on investment (track your earns to see if you gain or loss).

[@afhollister19]

My two cents re: Invisilign; It’s not debt unless you are putting it on a credit card or financing it using a loan. If something is not medically necessary and you can afford it in your budget then cash flow it. If you cannot afford it right now then save money for it in the future. If you qualify for care credit at the 0% interest option AND can pay it off before the deferred interest kicks in, then go for it. Sorry that was a lot I know but its definitely important for folks to understand where I am coming from.

[@_chancelina]

I'm late to the party. My vote goes to "frame the check!"

[@drsalka]

your hair keep looking better and better, aja!

[@maiko2022000]

I am sorry for your grand mother. I am glad you could go to her funeral. I am from Japan and now live in us. My grandma also passed away end of Feb and I couldn’t go back to Japan because of corona virus. I couldn’t even say good bye to her.. This is worst time. But we can overcome at some point..

[@AjaDang]

aw man, I so so sorry about your loss. And I'm so sorry you weren't able to say goodbye to her.

[@caoimhenimhuireadhaigh1303]

Having the money to be able to also pay your partners share of the expenses is important not just in case you break up, but if something really serious happens to them you won't be left dealing with that as well as being unable to pay rent

[@AjaDang]

yes absolutely

[@BookLover87]

I would consider health insurance a monthly expense but any charges incurred that I am billed from dr visits or dental care/invisalign would be debt if on a payment plan

[@ddlynn2011]

You can always call it April closeout and May budget

[@dick12lauj54]

Buy yourself a $1 ice cream truck treat when that comes on by. LOL

[@MsSuiite]

I follow you on Instagram, I’m glad you got the chance to say goodbye to your grandmother. I’m so sorry for your loss.

[@MsInformAsian]

buy a lottery ticket for $1

[@kevinc7068]

When I got my invisalign treatment, I asked if I would get a discount if I paid the full amount in one payment and they agreed to a 5% discount. I guess I would consider it as debt since i'd be paying 5% more, which looks a lot like interest.

[@heatherabner]

For the debt question: I guess I would consider anything that we owe that has an end date or a defined amount as a debt. Like insurance is a bill because you would have to pay for it forever ( or course as long as you have a car or whatever the case is) so I would consider invisiline a debt because you will not have to pay for it forever.

[@atbp8978]

Insurance for me is a fixed expense. It is something i voluntarily applied for. So i know, going into it that i can pay for it and i will set aside money for it.

[@tiffanyderber5221]

Can you make a video on how you utilize your banking apps (Ally, Empower, Qapital, etc) collectively?

[@azilizc]

Awesome video as always, reminded me to look at my finances today. I don’t consider Invisalign or medical treatment payment plans as debt, unless they are charging you interest. :)

[@lizz741]

Luke teetee'd in the Tesla 😯...I felt that...and my condolences to you and your family...

[@jadeandemmarox]

Sending you warm wishes... my grammy just passed as well- not covid related. I'm very grateful because I also got to say goodbye.

[@rachelfrombefore]

I don’t consider the Invisalign as debt since you have the money to pay it in full. Also.. it’s teeth. I’d pay ANYTHING for my teeth. That is a priority. I am so sorry for the loss of your grandma. Then that settlement.. and Luke? That’s a lot of emotions to cycle through in such a short amount of time. Grief, disgust, worry, relief.. wow. I’m praying for your mental and emotional health. ❤️