Search found 926 matches

by BogleFanGal
Wed Mar 27, 2024 5:46 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Can Medical provider “mess up” bill like that?
Replies: 35
Views: 1891

Re: Can Medical provider “mess up” bill like that?

Long story short. We recent had a surgery with a in network provider. The doctor’s office filed a claim with our insurance company and then sent us an invoice. However, in the invoice, the doctor added something that was not listed in the claim she filed with the insurance company. When I called, the doctor’s office stated that they did not believe insurance will cover that charge so they could just bill me directly and need not to submit that cost to insurance company. I was shocked to learn that an in network provider could do that . I immediately called my insurance company who said the provider must submit all relevant cost to it for review. I then reached out to the doctor’s office multiple times, to no avail. The office just not resp...
by BogleFanGal
Fri Feb 02, 2024 3:22 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Health Insurance "Selective Hearing" with claims processing
Replies: 9
Views: 891

Re: Health Insurance "Selective Hearing" with claims processing

Sorry OP. My son was nearly 2 before we were correctly billed for his birth. The care was excellent, the billing similarly excellent... for the insurance company. Patience and follow ups by phone (for clarity) and by email (so everything's in writing) my only recourse. Worked eventually. You're lucky the hospital was patient. My insurance company stalled for nine months before paying a bill that they rightfully owed the hospital - I followed up at least once a month, (by phone and in writing) and they kept saying it was "in review" and they would "escalate" my case. Meanwhile even though the hospital knew the bill was stuck on the insurer's side (I gave them claims numbers and other documentation) they refused to grant ...
by BogleFanGal
Mon Jan 29, 2024 8:16 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Refrigerator water filter
Replies: 49
Views: 5333

Re: Refrigerator water filter

This is my first fridge with replaceable water filter. Seeing many generic replacement alternatives to fit my fridge on the market. Sometimes sticking w/genuine brand is wise and makes a quality difference, other times you're just paying a surcharge for the name with no added value. Does anyone know if brand name matters when it comes to replacement water filters for LG, Whirlpool or other brand name fridges? Generic filters tend to only be NSF 42 and 372 filters, which means that they are lead-free and filter aesthetic impurities. OEM filters are also NSF 53 filters, which means that they also remove/reduce a number of contaminants with health effects. How much this difference means to you is going to be answered differently by different ...
by BogleFanGal
Fri Jan 26, 2024 11:29 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Selling house after 33 year; realtor distrust
Replies: 92
Views: 10497

Re: Selling house after 33 year; realtor distrust

I would absolutely interview multiple agents. Here is what I've done (though never for a house in this price range): 1. Go to any real estate website like Zillow and pull up sold homes for the last 6 months in your area. 2. For each one, make a list of both the buyer's and seller's agent. 3. See which realtors are listed the most, and interview the top 3-5 agents. After I did this, it was immediately apparent who the best agent was. She was the most active in my area, and was incredibly driven. She has lived here for 30 years, could tell us everything about the town, neighbors, any issues, etc. She also knew all the best contacts for contractors, plumbers, engineers, etc. and was setting up appointments before we even had to ask. Yes, both...
by BogleFanGal
Thu Jan 25, 2024 9:05 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Washington Post: "That 'free' annual checkup might cost you"
Replies: 112
Views: 11918

Re: Washington Post: "That 'free' annual checkup might cost you"

I went in for my ACA sanctioned yearly physical. I am perfectly healthy but hey... if it's covered... why not? The doc told me to go across the hall to get some blood drawn. He called me the next day to tell me the results were good. A month later I got a bill for a $50 lab. Can I afford $50?? Sure. Do I feel duped by the health system. Yes. I would strongly recommend appealing these to the insurance company. I get $500 bills for preventive labs, and I've paid them out of pocket before. This year I finally just appealed one. They came back and said, oops, it should be $0. I am certain that they do this on purpose. Note that my insurer is a "nonprofit" that only covers government employees, and yet they inexplicably own the naming...
by BogleFanGal
Sun Jan 21, 2024 8:00 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: No-state-income-tax states are not good for retirees.
Replies: 413
Views: 39643

Re: No-state-income-tax states are not good for retirees.

Ultimately the answer to this question depends on your net worth and your income during retirement. If you have modest assets and social security are a key part of your income, state income taxes aren't an important factor in most states. If you have $5M+ in retirement assets (exclude primary residence), this is when you start to see a big difference. That's $200k/ year of taxable income at a 4% withdrawal rate. A 5% difference in tax rates is 10k a year. At smaller amounts $1-2M net worth, the difference is not as noticeable. Exactly! And to elaborate. much also depends on the ratio of income to spending. People who spend a lot (housing, services, goods, transportation) will be more influenced by property taxes, use-taxes of various sorts...
by BogleFanGal
Sun Jan 21, 2024 6:59 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: No-state-income-tax states are not good for retirees.
Replies: 413
Views: 39643

Re: No-state-income-tax states are not good for retirees.

I've always found this tool interesting: https://smartasset.com/retirement/retirement-taxes We moved from OR to WA for a number of reasons, including income tax. We plan to do significant Roth conversions in early retirement so that might be to our advantage. To be honest though, I would not know how to calculate the various changes in taxes and COL to determine with absolute confidence that we have come out ahead. My wife has a friend who lives in Vancouver WA. She drives to Oregon to shop and gets the best of both worlds...no state income tax in one and no sales tax in the other. To me...sounds like too much driving. Ha! My concern is taxation of sources of income. Since I live in NC, and NC doesn't tax SS benefits, and since my other in...
by BogleFanGal
Sat Jan 20, 2024 12:18 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Treadmills
Replies: 59
Views: 5590

Re: Treadmills

I’ve had a Sole F80 treadmill for 5 years. Had some initial isssues that were covered under warranty but other than that it’s been great. I put it together upon delivery…very easy to assemble with basic tools. My Sole F80 has been great too. I really like the simplicity of it. My only complaint is that the built in cooling fan is useless. We've had a Sole for almost 13 years and it gets a lot of use. Would buy again. I also own a Sole: their lowest priced entry level model. Cost me about $900 4 years ago. Sturdy, well constructed, good motor size (many cheaper treadmills have weaker motors that wear out prematurely), well cushioned walking/running belt. Longer warranty than several comparable priced competitors. Free delivery. I agree with...
by BogleFanGal
Sat Jan 20, 2024 11:03 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Treadmills
Replies: 59
Views: 5590

Re: Treadmills

I’ve had a Sole F80 treadmill for 5 years. Had some initial isssues that were covered under warranty but other than that it’s been great. I put it together upon delivery…very easy to assemble with basic tools. My Sole F80 has been great too. I really like the simplicity of it. My only complaint is that the built in cooling fan is useless. We've had a Sole for almost 13 years and it gets a lot of use. Would buy again. I also own a Sole - I chose their simple, entry level model 4 years ago for about 950. Sturdy, well made, good motor, stable, well padded walking/running belt. Longer warranty. I don't need or want the digital gimmicks and gizmos often found on many cheaper models. This is a well-made machine for those who just want a good wor...
by BogleFanGal
Sun Oct 15, 2023 3:58 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Services to find doctors with availability?
Replies: 37
Views: 4364

Re: Services to find doctors with availability?

alongfortheride wrote: Sat Oct 14, 2023 5:32 pm To answer some questions posed here:

My only criteria is that they are a US-educated MD. (Not a DO or Nurse Practitioner, or educated abroad). I hope this is not looking for a unicorn :-)
It would be in my region - vast majority of PCPs are DOs and even they're not available - most of the time, fastest to be seen by their NP. Many weren't educated in the US.
by BogleFanGal
Fri Oct 13, 2023 5:21 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Best phone around $400? (Samsung S or Google Pixel)
Replies: 42
Views: 7998

Re: Best phone around $400? (Samsung S or Google Pixel)

Thanks all who shared their experiences and comments :happy Overall it sounds like to me that Google Pixel 7 would be preferable over Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus Definitely Pixel. I bought my 6A new a year ago in Nov with a $150 mfg discount for only $350. If you can wait a couple more weeks, Google is likely to have a holiday sale. I guess I'll be the contrarian...the phone's ok overall, but the fingerprint reader STINKS. I've tried every hack online to get it to work, including multiple efforts to re-record my prints (without a screen protector) - and still, 8 or 9 times out of 10, I get error readings and have to then manually enter my lock screen code when I'm out in public, which I hate doing. Some people have no problems, but I'm clearly...
by BogleFanGal
Sun Oct 08, 2023 10:27 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Which stores have FREE delivery and NO minimum order?
Replies: 13
Views: 1732

Re: Which stores have FREE delivery and NO minimum order?

Temu advertises as no minimum and no delivery fee; the orders take at least 5 business days and all products are Chinese made, not name brand. https://time.com/6243738/temu-app-complaints/ Temu is getting a rep. I guess they violate tariffs and do not get the proper inspections, among other issues I realize most everything we buy already is made in china, but by buying from Temu, I'd be purchasing directly from a Chinese-based company required to file all their sales info with their govt by law. This could include full customer info - I'm not sure. I know many here will scoff at my reluctance, but the few bucks I'm saving just isn't worth it. I'd rather buy directly from a US-regulated company and let them vet and take the risks of working...
by BogleFanGal
Sat Sep 09, 2023 4:48 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Water Heater Replacement Costs
Replies: 113
Views: 11900

Re: Water Heater Replacement Costs

TravellingTechOnFire wrote: Sat Sep 09, 2023 2:07 pm The rebates for heat pump water heaters are much higher now with the IRA incentives...i.e. it would have been free if purchased this year.
Just a PSA: not every state is participating in this federal rebate program. Florida, for example, rejected participation, so homeowners in that state are all ineligible. Make sure to check your state before buying a higher cost, rebate-eligible item just to make sure.
by BogleFanGal
Sat Sep 09, 2023 1:19 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Water Heater Replacement Costs
Replies: 113
Views: 11900

Re: Water Heater Replacement Costs

Our 3 year old Rheem water heater sprung a leak in 2021 and we needed to have it replaced. I called a local "do it all" HVAC/plumbing company and they quoted a little over $5,000 (not a typo) to replace it that day. I ended up finding a local plumber who did it for $1,700 the next day. You are at a definite disadvantage if you wait until the water heater fails, but I wasn't willing to go a week or two without hot water. We now have a tankless in the current house and it's been great. I would highly recommend one to anyone thinking about switching from a tank heater. After getting crazy town wait times (4-8 weeks) and labor costs Home Depot won out big time in my HCOL area. How was your experience with Home Depot? In my city they ...
by BogleFanGal
Sun Sep 03, 2023 1:30 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: HVAC experts: Is my A/C undersized for my home?
Replies: 45
Views: 3735

Re: HVAC experts: Is my A/C undersized for my home?

twh wrote: Sat Sep 02, 2023 11:49 pm The A/C on 67 or 69...I'd be frozen.
Oh...that would feel heavenly to me - especially overnight for sleeping, but the electric bills would be frightening. I keep mine at 78-79 and avoid ovens, open blinds or other heat generators during peak seasons. Electricity is way too costly in my area to turn the T-stat down to where I truly wish it could be: rates just went up 20-25% this year alone, on top of rate increases last year. :shock:
by BogleFanGal
Wed Aug 23, 2023 11:37 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Inflation Reduction Act - Home Improvement Rebates & Tax Credits
Replies: 52
Views: 10145

Re: Inflation Reduction Act - Home Improvement Rebates & Tax Credits

Update on rebate program. Although these are federal rebates, I guess states can reject them. Florida's governor just declined to participate, so residents in FL cannot apply.

This isn't meant as political discussion, but as a head's up to anyone putting off upgrades in anticipation of qualifying. I imagine most states will participate, but there may be a few more outliers to come. (I wonder if people from states whose governors reject participation can still take advantage of any federal tax credits?)

Many news links about this like one below. (Mods: if not allowed to share, please delete.) https://www.cnbc.com/2023/08/04/home-ef ... gn-on.html
by BogleFanGal
Sat Aug 19, 2023 11:22 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Rethinking "Keep Your Car for Ten Years"
Replies: 466
Views: 49616

Re: Rethinking "Keep Your Car for Ten Years"

From a purely monetary standpoint, it's usually a better value to repair older cars. But as one ages,what's the price of one's remaining time, life energy and peace of mind worth? It's worth far more to me now than when I was younger. Disregarding those who can DIY maintenance and some repairs, I've had mountains of aggravation finding trustworthy mechanics, leaving cars for hours or days, paying crazy high repair costs the past few years, and dealing with the frustration of intermittent or hard-to-diagnose problems with all the electronics in cars now. Bottom line: the risk of being stranded at night or on the way to a medical appt is not worth it. But I live in a car-dependent area - I'd probably feel differently if I could walk to places.
by BogleFanGal
Sat Aug 19, 2023 10:50 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Rethinking "Keep Your Car for Ten Years"
Replies: 466
Views: 49616

Re: Rethinking "Keep Your Car for Ten Years"

deleted - duped post
by BogleFanGal
Tue Aug 15, 2023 6:15 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: 3 Day Trip - New Orleans
Replies: 43
Views: 3492

Re: 3 Day Trip - New Orleans

deleted
by BogleFanGal
Thu Aug 03, 2023 4:16 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Spending Money on Travel
Replies: 65
Views: 8508

Re: Spending Money on Travel

I love the idea of travel, but cannot stand the state of flying as it is today: extremely uncomfortable for many reasons. So I've resigned myself to little or no travel the rest of my days unfortunately, unless it's by car. Luckily I enjoy living vicariously through travel forums, youtube and family vacation photos. :D
by BogleFanGal
Mon Jun 26, 2023 4:04 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Review of book "Die with Zero"
Replies: 179
Views: 24372

Re: Review of book "Die with Zero"

I read it - I think he suffers from tunnel vision and assumes everyone has what he does. He has a strong safety net via his family, who also have money. If he got into a serious jam or needed help, he has somewhere to turn. MANY people lack this - they must depend upon themselves - so blowing that dough too soon may create some very disturbing scenarios. But he doesn't acknowledge that possibility at all. He throws out LTC as the solve for those worried about needing help in the no-go years. As mentioned on many other threads, it's impossible to find a LTC policy today with solid, long tail coverage to meet serious needs. He doesn't mention it at all. He makes way too many assumptions. I did take away a few good nuggets, but really hope peo...
by BogleFanGal
Mon Jun 26, 2023 3:46 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Fortune Article: How To Spend Money
Replies: 43
Views: 6899

Re: Fortune Article: How To Spend Money

I will never be able to convince my 84 year old DH to spend money…he says he can’t stand to see his pile go down.It’s just the way he is. His kids, however, will have no problem spending the millions they inherit, and he knows that. He’s frugal to the nth degree. Me? I’m generally frugal too, but at nearly 79, if there’s something I really want to do, a trip I want to take, or a play I want to see, I’ll spend my own separate money to do it. Life is too short not to, and it keeps getting shorter. Example: he’s always wanted to see the Eagles in concert, as have I. He refused to spend the money on tickets, so I bought good seats and gave the tickets to him for Christmas. He absolutely loved the concert, and talks to all of his buddies about ...
by BogleFanGal
Mon Jun 26, 2023 11:21 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Fortune Article: How To Spend Money
Replies: 43
Views: 6899

Re: Fortune Article: How To Spend Money

I will never be able to convince my 84 year old DH to spend money…he says he can’t stand to see his pile go down.It’s just the way he is. His kids, however, will have no problem spending the millions they inherit, and he knows that. He’s frugal to the nth degree. Me? I’m generally frugal too, but at nearly 79, if there’s something I really want to do, a trip I want to take, or a play I want to see, I’ll spend my own separate money to do it. Life is too short not to, and it keeps getting shorter. Example: he’s always wanted to see the Eagles in concert, as have I. He refused to spend the money on tickets, so I bought good seats and gave the tickets to him for Christmas. He absolutely loved the concert, and talks to all of his buddies about ...
by BogleFanGal
Sun Jun 18, 2023 3:05 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: submit ?s: Jonathan Clements on getting to financial independence
Replies: 29
Views: 4277

Re: submit ?s: Jonathan Clements on getting to financial independence

I've been a regular reader of Jonathan since his WSJ days and never miss his weekly Humble Dollar newsletter. I have 2 questions - feel free to use either or neither! Thanks for the chance to post.

1. If he had the power to change one past column or piece of advice from his WSJ days - knowing what he knows now or experiencing the mistakes he's made or seen others make - what would it be?

2. What does he feel his biggest financial mistake was? (He asked readers to answer this in his Humble Dollar VOICES column - I'd like to know what his answer would be.)
by BogleFanGal
Mon Jun 12, 2023 1:23 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Inflation Reduction Act - Home Improvement Rebates & Tax Credits
Replies: 52
Views: 10145

Re: Inflation Reduction Act - Home Improvement Rebates & Tax Credits

Just checking in: anyone's state announce if IRA rebate eligibility will be tied to gross or adjusted gross yet? I know every state will set their own rules, but curious if any are ahead of the game in getting this going.

Sure hope most lean to AGI. Gross income is going to disqualify a lot of avg earners - especially those without kids - who live in lower income ZIPs. My area is high COL but low avg median income due to many low paying hospitality/service/seasonal jobs.
by BogleFanGal
Mon Jun 12, 2023 11:45 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Can't undo FSA (flexible spending account) election error
Replies: 29
Views: 3009

Re: Can't undo FSA (flexible spending account) election error

My feeling is that I just donated money to a fortune 500 :- ) I find interesting anyhow why this has to be so complicated and why a FSA is bound to an employer. I lost last year some funds when changing employer. I feel your pain. I obtained a written treatment plan for dental work and based FSA on that. Procedures ended up costing 1500k less, as fewer complications than anticipated. But I was locked in. Tried to deplete funds best I could, forfeited the rest and vowed to never participate again. Tax savings aren't worth it. FSAs are unnecessarily punitive and restrictive to employees: they leave zero room for adjustment, despite the lack of transparency patients face in healthcare billing. I've had good administrators, but last one was a ...
by BogleFanGal
Sun Jun 11, 2023 1:28 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Can anyone recommend some good sheets that stay cool in warmer temperatures?
Replies: 63
Views: 5673

Re: Can anyone recommend some good sheets that stay cool in warmer temperatures?

livesoft wrote: Sun Jun 11, 2023 1:22 pm Any sheets with a running ceiling fan above them.
Ha! Ain't that the truth. :beer I have 2 fans running when I sleep!
by BogleFanGal
Sun Jun 11, 2023 1:26 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Can anyone recommend some good sheets that stay cool in warmer temperatures?
Replies: 63
Views: 5673

Re: Can anyone recommend some good sheets that stay cool in warmer temperatures?

This time of the year, I will often wake up in the middle of the night to warm sheets. I think the thread count is 400 (if I'm not mistaken) but they still get warm. Any suggestions on sheets that stay relatively cool throughout the night? What are you using now? If cotton, is it "sateen"? That is very "limp" when you lift it up, and it drapes very close to the body. Cotton sheets are also available in "percale", which is a different weave, and is slightly "stiffer", for lack of a better word. There's somewhat more air between you and the sheet mostly. Now, that would have me *thinking* that the extra air would mean more insulation, and thus more warmth. But we both find the percale sheets considerab...
by BogleFanGal
Sat Apr 29, 2023 12:02 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Using window air conditioners to improve HVAC efficiency DEC 2023 UPDATE 13% reduced electric usage for full year
Replies: 61
Views: 9318

Re: Using window air conditioners to improve HVAC efficiency

tortoise84 wrote: Sat Apr 29, 2023 7:51 am UPDATE
I have been using the two MrCool 8000 BTU U shaped window ACs since Feb 2023 in South Florida where daily highs have been reaching 90F already.

My kWh/day of electric usage has gone down by ~20% vs last year.

Feb 2022 15.4 kWh/day
Mar 2022 18.8
Apr 2022 20.5
...
Aug 2022 43.0 (peak central AC usage)
...
Feb 2023 13.6 -11.6% vs last yr
Mar 2023 14.9 -21.0%
Apr 2023 16.6 -19.1%

So I would say that this experiment was a success and I'm looking forward to seeing how much I can save during the summer months.
Congrats on your results. I'm surprise your HOA allows window units - all the ones in my area prohibit window AC units. Our only choice is central AC or portables.
by BogleFanGal
Tue Apr 04, 2023 10:21 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Can I afford this Life Plan Community?
Replies: 72
Views: 6592

Re: Can I afford this Life Plan Community?

If I was 73 and in good health I would not want to live around a lot of people who are not in good health, and who have nothing else to talk about besides their declining health. Some people don't seem to mind that or have found a very niche life plan community where there aren't a lot of older people (yet). Here’s a slightly different view. My aunt used to visit a friend in an enclosed retirement community. She told me she never wanted to live there since a hearse seemed to do a pickup each time she visited. It was also too quiet and the sounds of kids playing were missed. I tend to agree with her. Not to derail OP's original thread, but gotta say - to each their own, I guess. :beer I wouldn't live in another family neighborhood if you pa...
by BogleFanGal
Thu Mar 16, 2023 6:57 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: My Bad Experience With Angie's List
Replies: 46
Views: 8581

Re: My Bad Experience With Angie's List

I also have had no luck finding qualified contractors with Yelp, Angie’s list, NextDoor, etc. Here’s what I do now, not 100% successful but better than before: 1. Word of mouth referral. Could be neighbor, paint store, other tradesman, etc. 2. Are they a franchise? Then Nope. Only small, local businesses. Best case is family-owned and they have been in business a long time. 3. Verify they have a contractor’s license and proof of insurance. Check your state’s contractor license web site to verify the license is in their name and no judgements against them. 4. Do they want more than 10% deposit? Then Nope. Either they don’t have an account with their supplier, or you’ve lost any leverage to get them to finish the job. 5. Have a written contr...
by BogleFanGal
Mon Mar 13, 2023 5:02 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: $3000 mattress worth it?
Replies: 97
Views: 10831

Re: $3000 mattress worth it?

So many people emphasize spending more on a mattress with the rationale that "you spend 1/3 of your life sleeping" and it's worth the extra money. But I went down that mattress shopping rabbit hole several times - and every time, I discovered that spending more didn't bring me any improvement. Most people here must be from cooler climates or just sleep cooler in general. After trying a bunch, I find most of today's top rated, pricey mattresses everyone raves about in this thread feel horrible to me. I sleep hot and the materials they use - even the so-called "cooling" ones still have me perspiring more - they cannot match the comfort of my simple spring coil mattress of old. I was ready to spend, but finally gave up and ...
by BogleFanGal
Mon Mar 13, 2023 1:09 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Do you regret spending money on your wedding?
Replies: 229
Views: 23271

Re: Do you regret spending money on your wedding?

I knew that if I wanted a wedding, we'd have to deplete our savings. Neither of us had any family to help. We had just enough saved for an extremely modest event or a down payment on our first house. I was urged to do what made me happy, as I shouldn't "miss out" on my own wedding. HA! The choice wasn't even close - eloped and never regretted it :D
by BogleFanGal
Fri Mar 10, 2023 5:45 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Disappointed in Bonds...
Replies: 227
Views: 22818

Re: Disappointed in Bonds...

Probably more of an aside but in this diminishing NAV of bund fund environment I like to use my bond funds for tax loss harvesting. Prices, even when dropping, tend to be not that volatile so that 31 days later when you get back in, not much different than when you got out. Do you turn the dividend reinvestment off and on again every time - and do you have any bonds in pre-tax accts where you have to do this as well? I ask because I did a bit of TLH with bonds and shut off all bond dividend reinvestement across IRAs and 401k, to avoid the wash sales. I still haven't turned them back on yet, as I'm not so sure I really want to add more to my nominal bonds holdings going fwd, but not ready to sell the holdings I have at a loss right now. (I ...
by BogleFanGal
Fri Mar 10, 2023 8:40 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Noisy Home Locations
Replies: 49
Views: 5324

Re: Noisy Home Locations

quantAndHold wrote: Tue Mar 07, 2023 10:22 pm Leaf blowers. Always leaf blowers.
These darn blowers are the bane of my existance - every friggin day it's diff neighbor's lawn service - and it's ridiculously loud. They shouldn't be allowed imo. But I'm super sensitive to noise unfortunately - it literally raises my stress level and blood pressure noticeably. I envy those that aren't.
by BogleFanGal
Mon Feb 27, 2023 11:10 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Key West sights
Replies: 24
Views: 2599

Re: Key West sights

oxothuk wrote: Sat Feb 25, 2023 10:43 pm Truman little White House
Hemingway house
This. Both are excellent - imo, best two non-water attractions in Key West.
by BogleFanGal
Mon Feb 27, 2023 8:27 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Attempting self imposed $500 annual discretionary spending challenge
Replies: 235
Views: 20185

Re: Attempting self imposed $500 annual discretionary spending challenge

FYI... I encouraged Jennifer to post more on the forum. Posts on Bogleheads are dominated with things like: "I only have 35x my expenses saved -- can i retire yet?!" There's probably many silent people who visit the forum who are afraid to post about lower / middle class situations that they find themselves in. As for this post... Spending $0 for a year is not realistic. But $40 per month? That still sounds really tough for me... but it's realistic. While I cannot imagine spending so little myself... I must admit the following: IF.... 1. I was advancing in age 2. I had a late start to my saving 3. I was moderately disabled 4. Owning my home with no mortgage and having a small amount of savings for retirement was my #1 priority......
by BogleFanGal
Fri Feb 24, 2023 3:13 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Frugal Tip: Black Tea vs Coffee -- we save around $600 per year this way.
Replies: 248
Views: 22287

Re: Frugal Tip: Black Tea vs Coffee -- we save around $600 per year this way.

JenniferW wrote: Fri Feb 24, 2023 2:20 pm
steadyosmosis wrote: Fri Feb 24, 2023 2:13 pm I just do not pay for beverages at all, and drink only tap water.
This is great! Other than tea, all we drink is water as well :)
I just can't fathom drinking only plain water and tea for the rest of my days. I'm getting sad just thinking about it. lol. Far from stupid, I say kudos to you - incredibly healthy! I admire you and wish I could do it. I do drink lots of water, but only enjoy tea when I'm sick and consider a good glass of wine and coffee among the essential food groups. :D
by BogleFanGal
Thu Feb 23, 2023 12:59 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Denied Dental Insurance Claim
Replies: 20
Views: 2161

Re: Denied Dental Insurance Claim

HighFive wrote: Wed Feb 22, 2023 2:22 pm
Bcdkgf wrote: Wed Feb 22, 2023 1:43 pm I make it a point to get a pre-authorization/determination of benefits with my Metlife dental plan. The desk clerk usually makes a face when I ask it of her, but it is important, especially with a high cost procedure. Se if you can appeal their decision. I am very sorry that your implant failed. My husband has had 4 of them and it was all good.
Thanks for the reply. Yes, I just never really heard of ever needing one...now i know. Implant was on front tooth, so I guess those have a higher rate of failure. Hopefully it works out on the second try.
Don't feel bad. Mine failed too. Due to other medical conditions, I was not able to try again :(
by BogleFanGal
Thu Feb 23, 2023 12:35 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Cheated by a car rental company
Replies: 76
Views: 10749

Re: Cheated by a car rental company

OP: have you tried reaching out to Elliott.org? Consumer advocate site - they seem to help a lot of people - particularly those who have already tried advocating for themselves and have strong documentation to back their claim.
by BogleFanGal
Thu Feb 23, 2023 9:18 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Cases where the "base model" is a steal, but the fancier models are quite expensive
Replies: 77
Views: 9045

Re: Cases where the "base model" is a steal, but the fancier models are quite expensive

I invested wisely following Boglehead principles so I don't have to buy base models anymore. You own the things you own and then they in turn will own you. The rich man isn’t the one who has the most, but rather the one who needs the least. A rich man can afford anything, but can't buy everything. Don't confuse my willingness to buy top shelf items with owning a lot of stuff. I am very anti-consumerism. I drive Toyotas, not base models though, and certainly not a Lexus. I own a 1600 sqft home on a road full of McMansions. But when I have a NEED and that NEED can be filled with several different models, I often go with a higher model because I can afford to based upon my investing habits and they provide extra value. Case in point, I replac...
by BogleFanGal
Thu Feb 23, 2023 8:42 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Carvana. Registration troubles.
Replies: 51
Views: 8550

Re: Carvana. Registration troubles.

I can't stress enough no one should be buying a car from Carvana. If I was in this situation, I would take the car back and get a refund if that's an option. Find another car. This isn't really a secret, but there's a lot going on in the background with Carvana beyond their finances on how they are handling titles that's going to be an absolute mess. According to a reliable source I have, problems like this are just the tip of the iceberg of what's coming. Lots of good advice. Small comfort, but OP - you shouldn't beat yourself up for choosing them based upon what you heard at the time. I've regretted several choices I made that failed, despite having the best intel possible at the time. There were actually legit positive Carvana experienc...
by BogleFanGal
Sun Feb 19, 2023 10:27 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Hit and run accident - what to do?
Replies: 42
Views: 5240

Re: Hit and run accident - what to do?

galawdawg wrote: Sat Feb 18, 2023 4:15 am
miamivice wrote: Fri Feb 17, 2023 9:47 am Bonus would include a little extra money for the annoyance of dealing with all of this.
So you believe that one should be compensated for the annoyance of dealing with things? In that case, I need to see how I can send an invoice via PM for the annoyance of dealing with all of the "semi-serious" trolling threads a certain Boglehead has posted over the past few years... :beer
:sharebeer
by BogleFanGal
Sat Jan 21, 2023 5:55 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Inflation Reduction Act - Home Improvement Rebates & Tax Credits
Replies: 52
Views: 10145

Re: Inflation Reduction Act - Home Improvement Rebates & Tax Credits

Thank you for posting and helping others make better sense of it all. I noticed income qualifications state "gross income" - any chance this could vary by state - i.e. using AGI vs gross income? Hi BogleFanGal Great question on "what is income". I was relying on the calculator link I posted. They have a FAQ on how the calculator works. here Unfortunately, the FAQ and most of the stuff I've seen about HUD are not super clear. A conservative approach would be to assume that you need to use Total Income on 1040 line 9. This is unfortunate because it takes away alot of the flexibility to control income with retirement or HSA contributions. Self employed people could still have expenses. However, I did find that under the 20...
by BogleFanGal
Sat Jan 21, 2023 2:01 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Inflation Reduction Act - Home Improvement Rebates & Tax Credits
Replies: 52
Views: 10145

Re: Inflation Reduction Act - Home Improvement Rebates & Tax Credits

Thank you for posting and helping others make better sense of it all. I noticed income qualifications state "gross income" - any chance this could vary by state - i.e. using AGI vs gross income?
by BogleFanGal
Wed Jan 18, 2023 7:07 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Question about login.gov
Replies: 20
Views: 3757

Re: Question about login.gov

Is this the platform the IRS mentioned they were planning to transition to for online return filing? Or was that something else? You cannot file individual tax returns online with the IRS. Tax returns can only be e-filed through a private company. Even Free File Fillable Forms is operated by a private company. The IRS was planning to move away from ID.me for account transcripts, identity protection PINs, and other taxpayer tools. However, no changes have been made in almost a year. Thank you for posting. I don't have an online IRS acct due to technical issues/being locked out years ago - their tech support couldn't help. Just waiting it out, hoping they move away from ID.me so I can start fresh & make an acct under their new platform.
by BogleFanGal
Fri Jan 13, 2023 7:26 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Question about login.gov
Replies: 20
Views: 3757

Re: Question about login.gov

Is this the platform the IRS mentioned they were planning to transition to for online return filing? Or was that something else?
by BogleFanGal
Wed Jan 11, 2023 7:39 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Usernames and Online Security
Replies: 38
Views: 4785

Re: Usernames and Online Security

I find that many websites I must do business with have very restricted ability to change usernames. They require email on file or my account number as the format. Hopefully more sites will evolve to reflect stronger security practices and allow more user name customization.
by BogleFanGal
Sun Jan 08, 2023 12:45 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Home Depot Gift Card problem..
Replies: 23
Views: 4796

Re: Home Depot Gift Card problem..

Good news that you didn't lose anything - other than valuable time, of course. :annoyed I also like giving recipient a printed receipt when buying GCs, but sometimes I redeem my cc points for them - and there is no "purchase" receipt in that case - just an email confirmation from cc company that points were traded in for a GC.
by BogleFanGal
Sat Jan 07, 2023 10:07 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: PSA - LastPass breach!
Replies: 718
Views: 65098

Re: PSA - LastPass breach!

Tom_T wrote: Sat Jan 07, 2023 9:39 am
BogleFanGal wrote: Sat Jan 07, 2023 9:35 am Curious: for all the folks who deleted their LP account and moved to a diff PW manager - how do they know if their deleted account will continue to be alive on a backup LP server somewhere? Do people have any legal rights to formally request that LP remove it unilaterally across the board - including backup servers or do they have no say over that?
What's the difference? If the hacker has already copied the data, it's in his hands.
Understood - that horse left the barn. But most folks would probably still prefer that a live vault won't live on in LP's untrusted hands years after they requested and assumed it was deleted. Just wondering if consumers have any legal authority to formally demand deletion of backups as well.