How to Money Friday Flight - Points for Paying your Mortgage, Credit Card Consultants, & AI UBI (to each according to his need!) #1092
Jan 23, 2026
This week covers intriguing financial updates, starting with the unexpected expenses of Dry January. Learn about a new mortgage rewards card that lets homeowners earn points, with some caveats. The conversation also dives into hiring credit card consultants and the rising trend of AI-based financial guidance. Additionally, smaller weddings are gaining popularity, often featuring cash gifts. Finally, explore whether AI could reduce medical bills significantly and the implications of tapping 401(k) funds for home purchases.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Mocktails Can Kill Dry January Savings
- Dry January doesn't automatically save you money because mocktails often cost nearly as much as cocktails.
- Joel warns that paying cocktail prices for nonalcoholic drinks defeats the budgeting intent.
Expect Fewer Employer Credit Checks
- Employers are increasingly ditching credit checks because 11 states ban them in hiring decisions.
- Avoid assuming a poor credit history will block most jobs but check exceptions for sensitive roles.
Student Loan Garnishments Paused Temporarily
- The Department of Education paused wage garnishments for defaulted student loans while new repayment plans are developed.
- Joel suggests borrowers still try to resume payments when possible and watch for early-summer updates.