I can’t remember, in my six decades of living in the U.S.A., a time when personal finances were so openly discussed. Millions of Americans have lost their jobs and are having great difficulty finding new ones. What follows is not pleasant. Bankruptcy, foreclosure and basement-level credit ratings, to name a few results of a stinky economy.
“Financial First Aid Kit 2009,” a series of legal books on CDs (to save forests) will help you cope with your sad state, and even get you out of it. Each book has an extensive table of contents, along with forms that will help you file necessary papers each step of the way.
All the books, from Nolo Press, which specializes in explaining complex legal terms in layman’s language, are searchable through an extensive table of contents, glossary and index.
A foreclosure survival guide will help you navigate short sales and stay in your house while the process winds down. You’ll also learn whether bankruptcy is your best strategy.
Other books on CDs include Money Coach, which will help you buy or sell your home, invest in the stock market, pay for your kids’ education and plan for retirement.
“Credit Repair” will show you how to get out of debt, understand a credit report and negotiate with creditors. Failing that, “The New Bankruptcy” will help you determine if you qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy and how Chapter 13 works. You’ll learn how to wipe out certain debts and whether you can keep your car and house if your situation goes south in a hurry.
Other books on CDs include a guide to tax deductions and how to stop identity theft. There’s a little actual book called “Legal Companion” that deals with life events such as changing your name and breaking up with your significant other, both married and unmarried.
That’s a lot of information in a one-pound box, and it’s all designed to help you out of this wretched recession.