Single Mom Trying to Create a Build a Better Life | Budget Breakdown EP 5 | FFM Podcast

This week we have a budget from a single mom with 2 kids who is hustling as best she can to make a better life for her kids. Let's break down her budget and figure out how to help this mom to put herself and her kids on a better trajectory.
#budgetbreakdown #singlemomadvice #financialfreedom #frugalfitmom #financialpeace #daveramsey #debtfree

[@karenwright1807]

I'd love to see follow up videos in say a year or 6 months time to see how your suggestions have helped them... just an idea

[@TeresaOwen-rt1sb]

I love how you were compassionate to this mama’s life and built her up. Good for you both! Thank you.

[@heathers9378]

I am an SSDI case manager. Minors can absolutely be granted SSI. I haven't watched the video fully, so I'm not sure if I am speaking out of turn but I read some comments about waiting until 18 to apply for SSI. THIS WOULD BE A MISTAKE! most cases can take at least 2 years for approval so applying as soon as possible is advisable!

[@lg127411]

I applied when my son was 12, we were denied because my husband made too much money. We do have respite services for times when my husband & I are away or when I need a break. We have other things available to him through our schools. We are in CA so I know some things vary by state. We were told we had to wait until he was 18 to apply for him to receive anything.

[@rosemarygomez6393]

Great video that should be shared at high school level. Budgeting is a life lesson that should be taught in school.

[@dawnreiss1993]

Also, one thing to consider is any child on the autistic spectrum might have food aversions and her grocery budget may be catering to their needs because they're only maybe a few specific foods that child will eat.

[@luciaabbaticchio1500]

10000%. My son is autistic.

[@kelseybrintnall2080]

Yeah I personally thought $450 was a little low for 3 adult sized people, especially with how busy mom is. Make some room in that grocery budget for convenience/safe foods and just completely nix going out. That’s what I would do.

[@lauranewman564]

Agreed, that's why for the rest of the family and for what the autistic child can eat, food banks, etc are a great idea. Fast food can be eliminated if she doesn't have to work so much!

[@tashamckinney4158]

Came here to say that...though maybe a Sam's/Costco would be good if those "safe" foods are available.

[@joycemitchell2092]

I would Love to see the update on this budget breakdown. I really hope this Mama was able to take your advice on things and move. Everything is temporary to get to where you want to be. ❤ Thank you for doing these!

[@Thesimplifiedwife]

Her grocery budget could definitely be cut down, but also depending on her sons needs, there could be some pretty strict dietary restrictions that are causing the groceries to be so high.

[@luciaabbaticchio1500]

You may be right about the special diet for the autistic son. My son is high functioning autistic and eating is an issue.

[@Unapologetically_Feral]

I have two autistic kids and yes their restrictive diets KILL my grocery budget every month. It’s so hard

[@cookshackcuisinista]

You two have walked the walk and still live the life with being thrifty in your finances! Good job and I think it's very encouraging when you talk about how poorly you had to live on your one salary with a couple of babies on the way because sometimes people tabulate in their minds that you didn't have a tough but my oh my, you did and out of sure determination, look where you have ended up!

[@liss.11]

Watching this as I eat my DoorDash sushi (I had a coupon!) and ponder my financial decisions 🤦‍♀️

[@happymama1015]

I love these!! Can we know her KZbin channel, I’d love to support her!! I truly wish her the best. Oh my gosh I’m in Florida if I was close I’d help her out my son also has autism I know how hard it can be. Prices here are terrible on anything. I know the food sounds terrible but we struggle too with our budget here. Maybe if she could meal prep ahead of time 🤷🏼‍♀️I bet she’s just exhausted.

[@Becka034]

I was coming here to say the same thing! I would love to support her channel!

[@bri6975]

I am pretty sure this is Meaty Mama. I love her channel! Check her out!

[@Becka034]

@@bri6975 thank you!!! I just subscribed and I am gonna binge her channel*fingerscrossed* it will help!

[@helenbeal9774]

@@bri6975 yeah I think it’s her too and she does a debt update at the end of the month

[@JessH2024]

Definitely meaty mama

[@lisakallunki5042]

One thing I try to think about before making a nonessential purchase or eating out is “how long do I have to work to pay for this”? Example, if we are going out to a fast casual restaurant and there are three of us, we are going to spend a minimum of $25-$30. If I make $16 an hour, it takes me two hours to pay for that meal. That is so not worth it. In my estimation! I know I can put a healthy and filling meal on the table for less than $10.

[@SmilinsShrinking]

I'm a tax preparer that loves financial coaching. (FPU grad) 🥰 Your talk through for this amazing Mom was SPOT ON!!! Great content!!

[@sjhirst3]

I really appreciate the variety of incomes and types of families you include in these videos/podcasts. We have 4 children and 2 are on the spectrum. Our son just turned 17 in late February and he'll never live on his own due to his level of severity of autism. I am currently working 3 part-time jobs from home. I love the flexibility. I do need or at least desire that flexibility because our youngest is in kindergarten and our 17 year old is only at school for 9 to 12 hours a week. I'm also a 1099 worker for the most part. I didn't realize that a 1099 makes taxes different. We are currently spending $1400-ish a month on groceries for our family of 6. Part of it is time (I have multiple jobs, my husband works full time, I have 4 kids and health issues), part is energy, part is inflation, and a lot is dietary restrictions because of allergies, sensitivities, texture issues due to autism. I guess I'm just commenting to say I understand how this is all possible and how hard it can be to get ahead. I just turned 40 last month. My husband is 42. We are trying to start our debt free journey. I feel like something keeps popping up. Our older son (17) needs $1,200 teeth extraction so it's throwing us off. I just want to get started. I feel stuck. Now I'm rambling. Lol. I really appreciate all your videos and practical advice. I will keep this mom in my prayers. I'm sure she'll get a lot out of the help and info you're providing for her.

[@cherishrake9562]

The thing about social security is- as a single parent for SSI you have to make 2k or less a month and have that in your bank accounts. However, when her son turns 18 that could very well change for them! Until then I fear social security wont be an option. I have three special needs kids. The struggle is real. This mom is a rock star! I could barely hold down two jobs with special needs kids. The appointments alone can become like a full time job depending on the needs of the child.

[@cynthiasantos4396]

How true. I just got a job making 17 an hr and lost 900 (all) of my daughters SSI (autism also). Additonally Floridia doesn't protect renters in regard to how much a landlord can raise your rent upon lease renewal. My last place went from 875 to 1700 (in the hood). So i found the cheapest townhouse for 1400. Nicer neighborhood. But then we lost FS and medicaid. I gotta pay for high medical insurance. I give this mom a lot of credit. Its so hard for so many of us single moms with special needs children.

[@Enasbooksandbudgets]

I'm a disabled 29year old woman surviving on SSI and assistance ea. Month. I am slowly trying to lower my expenses. March will be the first month I cut my food budget from $150 a week to $50-$75 a week. I have no savings but also no debt I am aware of currently. I don't pay rent but I do pay utilities. This journey is tough and watching these videos both scares me and pushes me to do better in my own finances. I recommend this mom try to get SSI for her child. Then fight for SSD . There is a difference between SSI and disability. Disability is higher paying but also exponentially harder to get accepted without legal assistance.

[@marilyns6043]

Great suggestion on the food pantry resources. I'm someone who has been able to help out our local food pantry from time to time and fully agree - the resources are there for anyone who needs help. It might just be for a short season of their lives or perhaps longer. That's okay. Everyone gets hungry. It's part of being human and we're here for each other.

[@christiej9557]

Great advice! Loved seeing a more relatable budget to myself. Very helpful tips! Love your channel!

[@SandiMacDougall]

I just started watching your budget podcasts. Currently watching the one with 44 yrs old in FL. Your talking about buying. We moved from CA to MO in 2014 so we could afford a home. We got a USDA rural community house loan with zero down. Something for some of your budget people to look into. Love the podcasts. I'm also a long time watcher of your other channel.

[@erincarter7143]

Sometimes it's hard to ask for the help or take the leap when you want to do it yourself. If this is how you feel, please tell yourself it is only temporary while you get to a better place. This is what programs are there for. I applaud you for wanting to put your family in a safer environment and working so incredibly hard to get there. I know how truly hard it is as I was there myself. When you get in a home you are proud of it will change your mindset completely about what you are capable of accomplishing. Dig deep and set a goal. Do what others are scared to do! I wish you all the luck in the world.

[@vlmellody51]

I love this kind of content! Once the older daughter gets on SSI, she'll qualify for Medicaid, which will drop the medical expenses for that daughter down to zero. I noticed that she never mentioned her medical expenses in her budget breakdown, and with a disabled child, they must be substantial.

[@vikki4now]

Disabled children are fully covered by medicade in FL.

[@angelaprzybylski9716]

Just popping in here to say what some others said. Please remember that some people are on special diets which makes the food budget higher. As someone who’s gluten free it automatically makes the groceries higher depending on what I buy and I can’t just buy some cheap pasta and sauce for a few months to cut the budget. I would imagine having any family member with a special need would result in something having to be different with the food budget making it not “just that simple” to cut down.

[@angelahawkins8069]

You guys are an amazing team!! Listening to you guys break down this person's debts, possibilities of finally getting out of debt...it is a huge boost of hope for them and for anyone out there trying to change their circumstances. Bravo!👏👏

[@stephaniejackson9089]

Should absolutely do SSI. This would also qualify that child with additional services like work programs for people with disabilities. Often water and trash is included in rent. So might just have electric. Looking for rentals for former foster youth is part of my job. Here in Ohio, it has been really hard for the last 4-5 years to find an affordable rental.

[@debby4450]

I really enjoy these budget breakdowns! Keep it up! I like that we can SEE what's going on!

[@michellebonnette4252]

This is so close to my budget! Thank you so much for the tips!

[@teresajones5973]

I retired from medical field and I agree that her pay is low for today’s times. I would either ask my company to reevaluate my pay or look into other companies.

[@roxannewhite9554]

I love this so much!! I love being able to watch as an option (I have no attention span when it comes to listening only😂) & I love the two of you together!! Please, lots more! Especially enjoyable seeing the budget breakdown of families who aren’t extremely well off.

[@CookingwithCatLover0330]

LOL! Dave you crack me up. You guys do great on these budgets. My question is, can she get her money back on that car? I know somebody who would loose money if he sells it to the dealer and nobody private will pay his price (what he owes). I guess even if she lost a little in the deal, the long run picture may be better. Great video. I wish her and the kids luck in this Indaver. I would also like to see an update show. I've been binge watching/listening. Thanks!

[@StephanieGiese]

As a mom with special needs children in the state of Florida, I have to point out that our current waitlist for a Medicaid waiver for children is seven years long. Thankfully, her child is almost 18, so at that point they can apply for SSI. The services are heavily dependent on what state you are in, and it’s not always easy to access them. Edited for clarity: Medicaid qualifications vary by state. In Florida they are income-based, although we do have a waiver program that provides a waiver and allows children with disabilities to access Medicaid, but the current waitlist is seven years long. To qualify for SSI with one ineligible (non-disabled) child in the home, and one disabled child, according to the social security website, her income would have to be below $3,900 every month and she can’t have any significant savings (I believe the current limit is $2,000, but I’m not 100% sure.) She’s already very borderline at this income, and if she increases her income or savings, she won’t qualify. Plus, it can literally take years to go through the process, so because her child is already 17, it is probably best to apply when they turn 18 and are considered an adult.

[@heathers9378]

Actually child can receive SSI benefits as a minor. I work in the SSDI.

[@irislaw2277]

@@heathers9378 My son was getting SSI when I was not receiving child support. As soon as I started receiving child support, they took his SSI away saying I made too much money.

[@StephanieGiese]

In Florida it is income based, this woman might qualify, I don’t know, it definitely wouldn’t hurt to apply, but our family doesn’t. The only thing our kids qualify for with Autism and intellectual disabilities is a Medicaid waiver through the agency for persons with disabilities. Believe me, we’ve been going through this with social workers, local police departments, therapists, and lawyers for four years since we moved here. In Pennsylvania our kids did qualify for Medicaid, just based on their diagnosis. In Florida they don’t, they have to be on a waitlist unless your income is below a certain amount.

[@heathers9378]

Typically they count a portion of household income as the child's assets. For an adult ti be awarded ssi they cannot have an earned income over $1470 gross in 2023,but for a minor SSA uses a weighted measurement to determine how much of household income to deem to the minor.

[@heathers9378]

@@StephanieGiese SSI is Federal not state

[@mommamoore]

Love this! I really enjoy hearing all the options that may be available and when you are the person going through it sometimes it's hard too look outside the boundaries to try and move forward.

[@mariannesiepert3520]

I have a friend that has a special needs son who is over 18. She is his fulltime caregiver and gets paid fulltime for that with benefits. I think it is a private company that works with the state and hired her to be his caregiver. The company even has funds to pay some to give her respite time. It is so helpful to her since she is also a single parent. She should reach out and see if there is something in her area.

[@vikki4now]

Not available in FL

[@trackee2024]

I'm obsessively binging these!

[@marthak9360]

Thank you, Dave and Christine, for another fantastic video! I love how you always apply yourselves to the situation, not just saying „oh, cut out xyz and off you go!“ because each situation is different. Just noticed I hadn’t subscribed yet so gotta hit that bell ☀️

[@michellethomas6965]

I struggle with groceries too! I budget 300 for 3 people then always go over several hundred each month. Tried meal planning, monthly shopping, bought 1/4 of beef to cut cost, using a lot of ground turkey instead of beef and making my own sweet snacks like brownies and cakes instead of individuallywrapped snacks. And always end up over budget by hundreds. So frustrating 😫. And we don't eat out hardly ever, 1-2 times a month and it's usually fast food. Use ibotta, fetch, upside and grocery store apps for cash back and coupons. It's my Achilles heel!

[@karinakissell9565]

These are so helpful. I definitely need to get my food budget back in line. But videos like this REALLY have helped me get debt managed, access where I could make cutbacks, and get myself on the right path for my financial future.

[@doveandolive1153]

Sending positive vibes to this single mom and best of luck to reaching her goals sooner rather than later! Hope she can find a higher paying job checking out Indeed or Jobflex for remote work - maybe even a 2nd part-time job remote would cancel the other (200+Dash). Car insurance is a tough one, I shop around every year and bundle with house insurance, also reducing my yearly mileage and higher deductible has helped me save money - maybe dependent upon where you live though.

[@KS-jf2jf]

So well done! You two have fabulous energy and the hope you are giving is amazing! I would also suggest putting a hold on any discretionary spending, buying everything used or clearance that they absolutely need until the debts are paid off. Also, does she have anything to sell? Perhaps some stuff her kids or her no longer use? Could sell online. I loved your idea of bite sizes, so don't get overwhelmed - so setting a goal to sell 2-5 things a week could be manageable. Finally, some states have other programs for disabilities, so really looking what they might be qualified for would be worth asking. Go make the dreams come true!

[@michaelalukens3260]

Another suggestion, if mom has a caregiver for the 17 year old disabled child she could go out and work a higher paying job potentially! Looking into developmental Disabilities office in your state to see if your son is eligible. I have an 8 year high functioning autistic child and he was eligible. Those caregiver hours are so important to us to make things run effectively in our household!!

[@vikki4now]

There is a 10 year wait list for those services in Florida. I'm on the waiting list.

[@SpatchG]

To whoever this post is for, you are a queen 👑, 4 jobs! Wishing you all the best, some great advice here.

[@MammaMcMasters3]

I love content like this. Thanks so much for doing something like this. We live in Central Florida and it's crazy. I like watching someone else go through the numbers to see if they see something I don't that I could implement in our own budget. I got an 18month 0% card from one of the local Credit Unions and that saved us a bunch of money. I feel for her. I couldn't imagine moving now. The 1950's 800 sqft house we bought a few years ago just appraised at $250K ----- it's crazy. Wish her luck with trying to move.

[@For-theloveoflife]

We moved to Florida 2.5 years ago. We came to build on land we own here but until then we purchased a MH for 11K remodeled it and live very comfortable. Our living expenses lot rent/ water/electricity for $1000 A month

[@michaelalukens3260]

Hi, I wanted to mention in some states, they allow disabled minors parents and almost always parents of a disabled adult to be their in home caregiver and be paid by the state for that job. She could be home with her child potentially and keep her medical job potentially. Just a thought. Here in Oregon it is temporary during the public health emergency for minors for parents to be paid caregivers and will be ending in may but there's bills going in to legislation for it soon.

[@vikki4now]

Not in FL

[@vikki4now]

This is my life even up to the handicapped child and living in FL. So yes, this one is more relatable than you know. Rent in Orlando tripled and there is little options for people like us.

[@ambermray]

I live in central Florida probably where this mother lives, and there is ZERO chance that she is buying groceries for $450 a month here in Osceola County. There are no clearance sections that I have seen, there are no sales that can make that possible, and you are competing against a TON of other people for sales. Our budget is about $400-450 a week, for 4 people. Granted that includes any toiletries and household supplies but still… not a chance in the world. Zero. Nada. I buy a lot at Aldi which is the cheapest I can find, use red sticker deals, b1g1, etc. not a chance. And if she lives in Osceola, our rent has tripled over the past few years. She’s not going to find anything below $1500 minimum and probably more for a decent area. Also, I am LOVING these episodes!!! The prices have increased so much in our area that I need every help and tip I can get to save a little cash. I nearly screamed today when I saw cereal was over $6 for a box!

[@catherineb.86]

Totally agree with you. The numbers they are giving are just not realistic for FL at all.

[@planningfoodmoneywithmiche7868]

I am loving this! I might send you mine, How much money would she save in gas NOT doing door dash? I would like to know her channel to support her that way!

[@sharonfarnsworth3325]

Yes, followup videos would be great!

[@j.l.7266]

These are wonderful! Thank you. I plan to keep watching them. I do prefer to see the whiteboard rather than just listen.

[@ILoveFountainPensCdn]

Very helpful! Thanks!

[@tessjune88]

Obsessed with this format Christine!

[@JessH2024]

As a subscriber of hers I know who’s budget this is. I’m hard core routing for her. She really does hustle.

[@ashleyjean172]

Thank you for this!

[@NaomiC336]

My hubby was in the military when we were first married. I think I was born frugal. I have friends that say how did you do it. We bought NOTHING extra. It was a short (4 years) commitment. I praise this mom for her hard work. I pray she gets in board with the wonderful suggestions in the comments. I hope at some point you do a follow up on her.

[@terrip8451]

Love the budget breakdowns! They help keep me on goal.

[@centreeki-librecenter9506]

I've been working with autism kids for 15 years now and food switch can be very difficult causing anxiety etc. Maybe starting a stockpile of must items for the 17 year old would be a good idea and introduced gradually new food. Plus contacting companies and explaining your situation might get you deals and coupons. God bless your beautiful family!

[@jennifercastillo9711]

Enjoyed this one, so much more relatable. Would love to see more like this.

[@marcynelson1785]

I love this series. I hope we can see an update in like 6 months to see if these tips were put in place.

[@iluvtwbf]

Only thing regarding the car. Her car may need to have certain features (wheelchair ramp?) for her 17yr old. Depending on their needs. 🤷🏻‍♀️ But for sure if she can swing it, get a different car.

[@saltrivercrafts]

I love my suv, I bought mine right before covid too. Just under $10,000 and the only "problems" I've had is just routine maintenance.

[@dillinghamfamilyfarm6457]

Love these!! So helpful and thoughtful. My fave videos are the ones you do together ❤️

[@cruisebum]

Do you mind me asking what company your friend works at from home with the medical claims? Or a way to look up a job similar to that. I am a stay at home mom of 3 but was a nurse before kids and would love to do something like you mentioned.

[@happymama1015]

Right! I was wondering the same.

[@ShopLiveBeyondTheLines]

I’m in FL as well! If she has an Aldi near by, definitely check them out! I agree the food could be easy to cut down even with dietary restrictions. ❤❤

[@sherrysimmons5186]

I love these budget breakdowns with you both, they give so much encouragement and ideas for us all! Thank you both and I hope you continue with these types of YT and podcasts. 👏🏻😃

[@mollygardens6646]

Thank you for doing this! I hope this hard working mom improves her situation.

[@ShopLiveBeyondTheLines]

And girl I loved my pilot!!! Traded it in at 280,000 miles and it was still going!

[@mauramarcus152]

We make steel cut oatmeal with ground flaxseed for a week of breakfasts. In the a.m., we add cinnamon, fruit, and maple syrup (could sub brown sugar to save $).

[@EmeryShae]

You guys are incredible. This is an absolutely fantastic video/podcast.

[@heathermoreland6015]

I was wondering if you could give this person a food plan or a course or a video list that dealt with food to help them with ideas and preparing for this life style change. I think it could make cutting the budget in half more approachable. What other resources do you clue them into to change their life. I would be supper interested in any other supports you think would be appropriate. Thanks for such great ideas.

[@corinmaness8498]

Awesome video! Are you guys financial coaches? Love hearing the advice and budget breakdown.

[@mangopuppybaby]

The state of FL does have a special needs scholarship. My friend’s son is on it. I hope her child qualifies. I know it can be changeling when children “age out” of those programs though. Great job you guys!

[@lavonnephilips2123]

Y'all are awesome! So encouraging for this mom! ❤️

[@teresa8287]

this is fabulous

[@Hugadognow]

Having just done a balance transfer, the amount they are approved for will be heavily dependent on their credit score. While I agree with the car strategy and the balance transfer, getting a new car loan and a new credit card will affect their credit score for future rental applications.

[@chrisl37642]

Absolutely this! Credit cards with high balance transfers and zero interest are usually for people with really good/excellent credit rating. Throw in a single income, female, and it’s even harder to get.

[@sonjacruz4333]

the problem with buying a house is that even if she can afford the new house, her overall debt to income ratio is still too high to qualify for a mortgage. I agree with the food budget and car swap for cheaper/quicker vehicle pay down. Minimize expenses and maximize income opportunities!

[@annaleewhite6753]

This is a great podcast!! I love it! ❤

[@annm1048]

She ABSOLUTELY needs to apply/receive SSDI. If her child won't be able to live independently, it is imperative she applies ASAP. If you are reading this, best of luck and 🙏.

[@jillgott6567]

Keep in mind when moving the costs : Moving company or at least gas for vehicles; deposits for utilities; eating out due to packing etc; packing materials such as totes, boxes.

[@flightlessphoenix77]

This totally blew my mind. If you put these numbers (income and debt) into a UK mortgage calculator, in order to buy a £200k home, you would need a deposit of £80k (that's a 40% deposit) Is it really possible to get approved for a mortgage with a 2% deposit in some US states?

[@melissataulbee2048]

My adult child is still driving his 2009 Toyota Corrola and it has 380K . He just replaced the transmission for 1800. Still going strong. What he does to get ahead on his medical school debt.

[@simplysarahbova]

Love these! Thank you so much for taking the time to walk through your approach and thought process on budgets!

[@ShopLiveBeyondTheLines]

Also, I’d love to hear more about buy vs rent. Renting is hard because of how much they require up front too…first, last and security deposit. Sometimes almost as much as a down payment.

[@joannaacevedo6282]

Loved this!

[@zaily348]

I love your videos. I don't miss one of them lol. I leave in Florida, the food here is really expensive. I don't believe she can spend $450 in food a month. 😪

[@brittanym58]

I feed 4 on 600 so 450 is the same proportionally for 3.

[@christinab9133]

Love it!!

[@lovas1196]

She truly may be able to raise her salary by finding the exact same job for a different company. If she has had the medical job for any length of time, she can ask for a raise…even cost of living/inflation raise if she didn’t get it in the last year.

[@gladyschandler6724]

Yes I was a single mom it was a struggle check to check

[@amandawells35]

I'm not in Florida and there is a monopoly on internet/cable/etc in the area I'm in so we don't have any real options but there is a program for low income (also available with help through the public schools) for internet for $10 a month. Something to look into in your area.

[@melindasutherland3086]

I didn’t realize that you were doing this for folks. Awesome! Do you have a questionnaire that you have on your website for people to fill out to help you gather the information you need?

[@CraneFamilyAdventures]

Cutting down on food cost is tough with picky eaters and if you don't know how to cook. I would say we spend $1200 a month for 3 people and that does not include eating out which we do a lot of, gotta love door dash. (If Christine sees this, she may do a spit-take). Also, we love our Honda Pilot! We drive it 11 1/2 hours to and from Disney like 4 times a year, best car we've ever owned.

[@pamelaburleson2063]

You mentioned churches for food pantries, but they might also have some housing resources too. At a minimum, they might be able to help get that broken door fixed.

[@nawoodshop2206]

Love this! U guys are awesome

[@stephanielang3322]

Really interesting video. Looking at things a different way!

[@heathermc5557]

Good content, love these and you two tackling these together… great team!! But don’t trade the car! They will charge her more for the new. Go buy a car from a private party, go to your bank to get the loan (the dealership charges you more apr)! I’m debt free just turning 50 and just now building my retirement as much as I can. Definitely start early comes so fast!

[@hopeschlieman6101]

Antenna TV is free. Getting rid of streaming at $24.00 a month would help her situation a little. Some towns have a free supper that is provided once a week. The churches take turns. They WANT people to come! Best of luck to her.

[@marcynelson1785]

I work in HR and that salary does seem low. I can think of several remote jobs at my employer that start $4 more.

[@audraleigh9922]

I love listening to these and I think you're spot on! However, I do think you didn't address the possibility that she has to work at home to avoid paying for supervision for her eldest. We don't know the details, but sometimes with autism care is needed. So with the cost of that, shed not be able to work most of the alternative jobs that were mentioned in the podcast and bring home even as much as currently. I love though that your eventual solution didn't necessitate a job change. She may eventually find a better paying work from home gig. Love your solutions and your demeanor. A real joy to listen.

[@jillgott6567]

I love this type of video ! Looking forward to more of them. You too handle this with respect and knowledge If, she sold her car for the full amount owed she would be lucky. And let's say she then buys a sedan for $10,00.00 she would need to come up with a down-payment. And be able to qualify for a loan on that car - not necessarily a good plan because of her other debt. I think it would be better to have a goal of getting the groceries down to $450, build up a stockpile, reduce the groceries even further to $300.00 with a final goal of working toward $150/ month. It won't happen overnight but the initial cut saves her $450 which she could put toward the principal and pay off her car sooner. This allows her to not worry about selling the car, finding another car, getting a down payment and applying for another loan.

[@violetwithey4618]

In Florida if you eat out you pay a high tax. If you shop at a grocery store you pay zero taxes.

[@violetwithey4618]

I love my Honda CRV

[@cynthia-n9w]

As a once-teen of a hard-working single mom (12-hour days), eating out saved our family's mental health. I don't love that this mom has to do that. Just... it's hard. But, overall, great vid.

[@retirementbudgettravel699]

Excellent content! Interesting slant. Well done!

[@christinehagan837]

What do you do when the credit score is not good resulting in not being able to be approved for a 0% card, or buying the "new" used car. With a more reliable car, I'd be back to door dashing for income. what can you do without a trade-in? Especially when we don't currently have a car payment. We have a 1992 reliable van for husband (main/most income earner) to/from work. Also have a questionable 2006 van at 142,000 miles. Used for close errands (usually no more than 10 miles away).