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A Retired Couple Followed Dave Ramsey's Advice, But Went From Being Debt-Free To Opening 13 Credit Cards And Taking Out Three Personal Loans
Yahoo Finance· 2025-12-13 19:31
Core Insights - The couple, once debt-free, is now facing $46,000 in debt due to poor financial decisions made after achieving financial stability [1][2] Financial Situation - The couple's monthly income is approximately $3,100 from Social Security and side work, while their mobile home and land are valued at around $135,000 [4] - They have opened 13 credit cards and taken out three major personal loans, leading to a cycle of debt repayment that has not resolved their financial issues [3][5] Financial Advice - Financial experts emphasized that relying on debt as a solution is flawed and that the couple has not learned from their past experiences [4][5] - Consistent bill payments do not address the underlying issue of living beyond their means, which is exacerbated by the high cost of living in their area [5][6] - The experts highlighted that the couple's financial pattern is unsustainable, indicating a need for a fundamental change in their financial habits [6]
Dave Ramsey says California dad ‘flunked’ his program after financing a tractor — but can there ever be ‘good’ debts?
Yahoo Finance· 2025-10-04 13:00
Core Insights - The discussion revolves around the financial choices made by a couple who have completed Financial Peace University (FPU) but still took on debt by financing a tractor [1][3][4] Group 1: Financial Situation - The couple has a household income of $350,000 and savings exceeding $400,000, including various investment accounts [2] - Despite their savings, there is a desire to spend on recreational items for family memories, indicating a conflict between saving and spending [2] Group 2: Debt Management Philosophy - Host Dave Ramsey criticized the decision to finance a tractor, emphasizing that it contradicts the principles taught in FPU [3][4] - Ramsey's approach under the 7 Baby Steps program prioritizes paying down all non-mortgage debt before building savings [4][5] - Alternative financial strategies suggest a blended approach, allowing for some debt management while building savings, particularly for low-interest, tax-advantaged debt [5][6][7]