Ask HTM - IRA Raiding for a Down Payment, Study Abroad: PAID, & Maintaining an 826 Credit Score #904
Nov 11, 2024
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This week, the hosts tackle intriguing listener queries about using retirement funds for a down payment and the best strategies for claiming Social Security. They discuss the nuances of financing study abroad programs while emphasizing the importance of creative budgeting. The conversation also contrasts frugality and cheapness, especially in the context of buying books versus audiobooks. Finally, they touch on managing credit scores, shedding light on whether to cancel old credit cards for optimal financial health.
Tapping into retirement accounts for a down payment is permissible but may severely impact long-term financial stability and savings growth.
Exploring scholarship opportunities is crucial for students considering study abroad programs, as they can significantly reduce the financial burden of education.
Maintaining old credit cards can help preserve a high credit score by improving credit utilization, so canceling them might be counterproductive.
Deep dives
Understanding Daily Expenses
Daily expenses, such as groceries or car repairs, can accumulate quickly, impacting overall financial health. It's crucial to manage these expenses effectively to maintain a stable budget, particularly in unpredictable financial climates. Utilizing cash-back rewards programs, like the one offered by the Navy Federal Credit Union's Cash Rewards Plus card, can also provide an avenue for mitigating some of these costs. By earning unlimited cash back on all purchases, individuals can enhance their savings and redirect funds toward other necessary expenses.
Charity Navigator Causeway
Charity Navigator has introduced a feature called Causeway, which allows individuals to donate to specific causes while supporting multiple highly-rated organizations. This innovative approach offers a more streamlined way for donors to contribute, aligning their charitable giving with personal values. As the year ends and giving becomes a priority for many, understanding tools like Causeway can assist individuals in maximizing their impact. Donors should consider long-term benefits of generosity, as giving often leads to personal satisfaction and fulfillment.
Retirement Accounts for Home Purchases
Considering tapping into retirement accounts for a down payment on a home can be tempting, but it often leads to long-term financial consequences. Although the IRS permits such withdrawals, financial experts recommend safeguarding retirement savings to avoid significant future shortfalls. It's essential to weigh the immediate benefits of homeownership against the potential impact on retirement funds, as these dollars are designed to grow over time. Exploring alternatives, such as lower down payment options or saving longer, is usually advisable to preserve retirement security.
Funding Study Abroad Programs
Parents should encourage their children to explore scholarship opportunities before resorting to student loans for educational expenses, such as studying abroad. Programs like the Gilman Scholarship can provide substantial financial aid without the burden of repayment, allowing students to take advantage of enriching experiences. Engaging with the financial aid office at educational institutions can yield additional resources and funding options designed specifically for international study. Taking the initiative to seek out free financial resources can greatly alleviate educational debt while providing invaluable opportunities for students.
Managing Unused Credit Cards
Keeping unused credit cards can positively affect credit scores due to factors like credit history and utilization rates, but canceling them can have detrimental effects. Each card contributes to increasing the overall credit limit, which can enhance a credit utilization ratio when balances are low. To maintain a healthy credit score, individuals might consider keeping these accounts active by using them for small purchases, which can then be paid off each month. For cardholders who still wish to simplify their finances, downgrading to a no-fee version can be a beneficial alternative.
Let’s dive into the week with some fresh listener questions we have lined up for you! And don't just stand on the sidelines- if you have a question you’d like us to answer, toss your voice memo our way. It only takes about 90 seconds to record and you can find a step by step guide over at HowToMoney.com/ask . Regardless of how random or bizarre you might think it is, we want to hear it!
1 - We want to tap our retirement accounts early to be able to fund a bigger down payment, is that ok?
2 - Taking Social Security… what strategy should I employ?
3 - How should my daughter consider paying for a study abroad program?
4 - Is it frugal or cheap to skip the purchase in a used bookstore and add it to my audiobook queue instead?
5 - What about canceling old credit cards while I have an 826 credit score?
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