Monthly Expenses- is this normal?

[jeslyn]

Ok, so I just filled out an expense sheet- there were tons of items that I didn't think about prior to, as well as lots of items on there that I have sacrificed in order to make ends meet.

Well, now that I've filled it out, I realize I am paying out 2250 a month, but only bringing in 2120. This is before Credit card payment (in "counseling" and it is auto-drafted). So, I am making the payments, but it just makes me realize how much my boyfriend is supporting me and this is not right (in my eyes).

Do those numbers sound normal to you all? I feel I was being extremely conservative...e.g. only 50 a month for clothes, no "entertainment expense", etc...I live like a hermit anyway since I am so poor.

I would love to hear comments on how others compare, just would be interesting that's all

[mmcconn2]

What is it that your asking? If your considering filing BK then you have the debt to income ratio and would be a good canidate for ch7.

[jeslyn]

Thanks. I was just wondering if my situation is among what is considered "normal" for being broke? Does that make sense?

I've just been reading a lot about it and probably working myself up for no reason. I tend to worry a lot...seems like I am in good company though!

I've pretty much decided what I need to do, it's just nice getting advice and also being told that I am making a smart decision.

[shygal]

I feel like I can relate to your situation WELL : ) My money situation is similar to yours...I haven't filed yet BUT I am certain that I will..I am in credit counseling too ( or at least I was until I stopped all the automated deduction out of my checking account, because there never was $ there ).. sometimes you feel like there is noway out.. and then you come across all the great peolpe here... this site is GREAT for advice and to just read and gain insight...

[jeslyn]

Hey Shygal...

What happened when you cancelled your automatic draft to the counselors? Did they call you or send you letters?

I am going to have to do that for my Feb payment because I have a cavity :o , and I have to go to the dentist! I have to! It hurts! But I am worried that the calls will start again....that is what makes me crazy...they call my work, my cell phone, my PARENTS!, they even called a friend of mine once!!! (the credit card company, not the counselors) BUT STILL!!! That is pretty ballsy! Not to mention EMBARRASSING!! I don't want my friends to know I'm hard up, I just don't.

[waziggy]

Make sure when they call you get their name, company name and address. Then search for their personal phone number of the collector using their last name, first name and city location online. Call them at home a few times. Leave messages with their husbands, wives, or children. Fight back. Turn the tables. Oh, I mean practice the golden rule; do unto others as they are doing unto you. If they can do it to you why can't you do it back? Get a group of collectors names and cities and pay a PI to get all the personal information on them for $25.00 a name. A good local PI can do it in less than an hour. Don't go down without fighting or at least determine to take some down with you. It's war folks so quit standing up when the shooting starts duck, take aim, and shoot back.