Marys Community Corner

Relationships seem to suffer when the economy tanks. According to John Ingrisano, author of The Back to Basics Book of Money! A Couple´s Guide to Financial Peace , "marriage is an economic partnership. Money may not be the sole factor in its success or failure, but it is one of the top three." So, when couples run into financial challenges, Ingrisano told New York Life´s "What´s New," it can impact every other aspect of their relationship. "It can turn your life and your home into a domestic battleground." What can you do? Here are just some recommendations from Ingrisano, who is also director of the Family Finances Conference Center. 1. Keep the channels of communication open. Talk about your fears and concerns. Exchange points of view. 2. Share money decisions and responsibilities. Pay bills together. Discuss purchases. Most of all, discuss your options if finances become tight. Do you reduce spending (cancel a vacation, dine out less often, give up gy...

Prepay your bills . Miss even one payment because you’re on vacation and your credit score could suffer. Pay down credit card bills . Also, when checking reservations with resorts/hotels, ask if they have put a “block” on your account (a practice to assure they receive payment). Clean out your wallet . Bring only one or two credit cards, your driver’s license, cash and/or traveler’s checks, and your medical insurance card. If you have health problems, pack copies of your medical records . Also bring copies of any prescription meds you take. Imagine going through airline security or a U.S. Customs port of entry and needing to document the validity of that vial of meds in your bag. (Also, carry all prescription medications in their original container.) Carry your passport . Even if you are staying inside the U.S., it is a universally accepted form of identification. Buy traveler’s checks . The cost is minimal (some banks and credit unions offer them at no charge), and they will be replac...