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Heavily in Debt at 42: Can I Still Recover?

T S Khurana

T S Khurana   |186 Answers  |Ask -

Tax Expert - Answered on Oct 05, 2024

A certified management accountant since 1993, T S Khurana is a fellow member of The Institute of Cost Accountants of India. His areas of expertise are income tax, specifically litigation cases, and GST.

Since the last 21 years, he has also been providing expert advice on financial matters, including investments and diversification of funds, and wealth building in the long term to his clients.
He believes that investment in real estate is the safest way for better returns and wealth generation over a period of time.

A former chairman of the Chandigarh Chapter of Institute of Cost Accountants of India, T S Khurana has also served as member of its technical committee.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Oct 04, 2024Hindi
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Money

Hello Sir, i am 42 years old, got duped due to online scams and lost about 20 lakhs, currently earning 110000 per month, to clear the debt took PL and I have a housing loan as well of 14 lakhs which is already 3 years passed. i am doing a sip of 2k and now its about 1.87 lakhs and my PF is about 9 lakhs, doing bajaj policy 3k and 2k market like policy.. apart from these I don't have any other savings. my goal is to clear my debts soon. any suggestions on how to do that. let me know if there are any questions that you need.

Ans: 01. You first try to settle your PL (Personal Loan), because its rate of Interest is high, as compared with Housing Loan. Second reason is that you get certain exemption against re-payment of housing loan.
02. You may further discontinue you SIP and funds in it may be utilized for payment of loan.
03. Kindly review your investment in Bajaj Policy & other market like policy, to further arrange funds for repayment of P/Loan.
Hope this will ease your situation. However, Most welcome for any further clarifications. Thanks.
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7026 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 11, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 27, 2024Hindi
Money
Hello sir, namste. Sir, I'm a contractual delivery person working in Bangalore. I have a net debt of around 7.5 lakh rupees which is accumulated by credit cards ~ 3.6 lakh (facing 4.5% interest and other charges monthly), personal loans - 2.9 lakh and ~ 1 lakh from relatives. I feel totally devasted Sir and many times I feel miserable. I have only studied till 10th class and so not a many job roles are available the market. In Zomato , I can hardly save around 20k-25k/ month after cutting all the expenses. Can you please show me a way ahead to clear my Debts ASAP. I want to live a life sir. And should I go with credit card settlement? The charges are so huge that around 12k is increasing each month just from charges. Should I first clear my credit card outstanding and then move towards other loans? And what should I do further sir, what skills can I learn that will serve the market needs in the future? I want to own a car and a house till 30 and have a sustainable business of mines. Please show me the way sir. I really need some expert advice on this. My image has all got dumped accross my family and friends. I didn't used to be like this before. To be Frank with you, I have done mistakes sir, I spent most of the money on drugs ..but now I want and need to change. I have already put a stop. Now I want to erase and write beautifully again. I hope you treat me like your brother
Ans: It's very courageous of you to reach out and share your situation. Acknowledging your past mistakes and showing a willingness to change is the first and most significant step toward a brighter future. Let's explore a practical and comprehensive plan to help you clear your debts and improve your financial situation.

Understanding Your Current Financial Situation
Total Debt: Rs 7.5 lakh

Credit Cards: Rs 3.6 lakh (4.5% monthly interest and other charges)
Personal Loans: Rs 2.9 lakh
Loan from Relatives: Rs 1 lakh
Monthly Savings: Rs 20,000 - Rs 25,000

Immediate Steps to Address Debt
Prioritizing Debts
High-Interest Debt First: Credit card debt should be your top priority due to its high-interest rate. The monthly interest of 4.5% can quickly accumulate, making it crucial to pay this off first.

Personal Loans and Relatives: After addressing credit card debt, focus on personal loans and the amount owed to relatives.

Credit Card Settlement
Contact Your Credit Card Companies: Explain your situation and request a lower interest rate or a settlement plan. Many companies are willing to negotiate if they see you are making a genuine effort to pay off your debt.

Avoid Settlement as a First Option: Settling credit card debt can affect your credit score negatively. It should be considered if negotiations for lower interest rates or payment plans fail.

Creating a Debt Repayment Plan
Step 1: Assess Monthly Expenses
List all essential expenses (rent, food, utilities, etc.).
Identify non-essential expenses and reduce or eliminate them.
Step 2: Allocate Savings to Debt Repayment
Dedicate as much of your monthly savings (Rs 20,000 - Rs 25,000) as possible to paying off your credit card debt.
Use the avalanche method: pay off debts with the highest interest rate first while making minimum payments on other debts.
Step 3: Extra Income
Consider taking on additional delivery shifts or part-time work to increase your income.
Look for freelance or gig opportunities that can be done in your spare time.
Developing Skills for Future Opportunities
Step 1: Identify Marketable Skills
Digital Skills: Basic computer skills, digital marketing, data entry, or social media management are in demand and can be learned online.
Technical Skills: Courses in web development, coding, or app development can open up job opportunities. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and Khan Academy offer affordable courses.
Language Skills: Improving English or learning a new language can enhance job prospects.
Step 2: Affordable Learning Resources
Online Courses: Use free or low-cost online courses to build new skills. Websites like Coursera, Udemy, and edX offer courses in various fields.
Local Community Centers: Check for workshops or courses offered by community centers or NGOs in Bangalore.
Step 3: Practical Experience
Internships: Look for internships or volunteer opportunities to gain practical experience.
Networking: Connect with professionals in your desired field through social media platforms like LinkedIn.
Long-Term Financial Goals
Goal 1: Owning a Car
Saving Plan: After clearing your debts, start a savings plan specifically for purchasing a car. Set aside a fixed amount each month.
Consider Pre-Owned: Initially, consider buying a pre-owned car to reduce costs.
Goal 2: Owning a House
Saving and Investing: Start saving for a down payment. Consider mutual funds for long-term growth once you have an emergency fund in place.
Government Schemes: Explore government schemes for first-time homebuyers, which can offer subsidies or lower interest rates.
Goal 3: Starting a Business
Business Plan: Develop a detailed business plan for your mining business. Research the market, competition, and legal requirements.
Small Start: Consider starting small and expanding as you gain experience and financial stability.
Funding: Look for government grants, small business loans, or investors willing to support your business idea.
Additional Tips for Financial Stability
Emergency Fund
Establish an Emergency Fund: Save at least 3-6 months' worth of living expenses in a separate account for emergencies.
Budgeting
Create a Budget: Track your income and expenses to identify areas where you can save more.
Stick to the Budget: Consistently adhere to your budget to avoid unnecessary spending.
Financial Discipline
Avoid High-Interest Debt: After clearing your debts, avoid using credit cards or taking loans unless absolutely necessary.
Regular Review: Regularly review your financial situation and adjust your budget and goals as needed.
Final Insights
Clearing your debts and achieving financial stability is a challenging but achievable goal. Prioritize paying off high-interest debt, such as credit cards, first. Consider negotiating with credit card companies for better terms. Allocate as much of your monthly savings as possible towards debt repayment and look for additional income opportunities.

Invest in learning new skills that are in demand in the market. Utilize online resources and practical experiences to enhance your employability. Set realistic long-term goals like owning a car, a house, and starting a business, and develop a step-by-step plan to achieve them.

Your determination to change and improve your life is admirable. Stay focused, disciplined, and proactive in managing your finances. With consistent effort and careful planning, you can overcome your current challenges and build a secure and prosperous future.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7026 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 22, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 15, 2024Hindi
Money
Sir my monthly salary is 20625 and I took a personal loan of 300000 lacs multiple loan app last 2 year and I have credit card also but with my daily expenses I couldn't pay the total emis and bills so I took some credit from cred application it's almost 100000 lacs and now I'm unable to pay any of them as my salary is very low to pay so many emis I can't stop thinking about all this I'm facing anxiety and depression due to debts. I want to come out of this debt and get clean from all this problem. I want to save money and live a normal life. I couldn't share it with anyone also. My father us retired and he couldn't help me.
Ans: You’re facing a tough financial challenge, and it’s understandable. Managing multiple loans and credit card debts on a low salary is stressful. You’ve taken a loan of Rs. 3,00,000 and additional credit of Rs. 1,00,000, leading to overwhelming EMIs. Your daily expenses make it hard to manage these debts, causing anxiety and depression. Let's explore a plan to get you out of this situation and towards financial stability.

Prioritising Mental Health
First and foremost, your mental health is crucial. Financial stress can take a heavy toll. Please know that you’re not alone, and it’s okay to seek help. Talking to a trusted friend, family member, or professional can ease the burden. Remember, mental well-being is as important as financial stability.

Assessing Your Debts
Let’s break down your debts:

Personal Loans: Rs. 3,00,000
Credit Card Debt: Rs. 1,00,000
Your total debt stands at Rs. 4,00,000. Given your monthly salary of Rs. 20,625, this debt load is unsustainable. The first step is to understand the exact EMIs and interest rates associated with each loan and credit card.

Creating a Debt Repayment Plan
1. List All Debts

Write down all your debts with their respective EMIs, interest rates, and remaining balances. This helps you see the full picture.

2. Prioritise High-Interest Debts

Focus on paying off high-interest debts first, usually credit cards. These debts grow faster due to high interest, making them harder to repay if not tackled early.

3. Debt Consolidation

If possible, consolidate your loans. This means combining all your loans into one with a lower interest rate. It simplifies repayment and reduces the overall interest burden. Contact your bank for options. They may offer a consolidation loan.

4. Negotiate with Creditors

Approach your creditors and explain your situation. Sometimes, they can offer reduced EMIs, lower interest rates, or extend the loan tenure. This can ease your monthly payment burden.

5. Avoid Taking More Loans

It’s crucial to stop borrowing more money. Avoid any more personal loans or credit. Taking more loans will only worsen your financial situation.

6. Automate Payments

Set up automatic payments for your EMIs. This ensures that you don’t miss payments and incur late fees, which add to your debt.

Cutting Down Expenses
1. Create a Budget

List your essential expenses—rent, groceries, utilities—and allocate your salary accordingly. See where you can cut down unnecessary spending.

2. Reduce Discretionary Spending

Limit spending on non-essentials like dining out, entertainment, and shopping. Redirect this money towards paying off your debt.

3. Focus on Essentials

Stick to spending on essentials only. Avoid any luxury purchases until your financial situation improves.

Exploring Additional Income Sources
1. Part-Time Work

Consider taking up part-time or freelance work. Even a few extra hours a week can significantly increase your income, helping you pay off debts faster.

2. Sell Unnecessary Assets

If you have items at home that you no longer need—gadgets, furniture, etc.—consider selling them. The extra money can be used to pay off debts.

3. Rent Out Space

If you have extra space in your home, consider renting it out. This could bring in additional income to help with debt repayment.

Building an Emergency Fund
Even while paying off debts, it’s essential to build a small emergency fund. Start with a goal of Rs. 5,000. This fund is for unexpected expenses, so you don’t need to rely on credit cards or loans in emergencies.

Planning for the Future
1. Start Small Savings

Once you’ve stabilised your debt situation, start saving a small portion of your income. Even Rs. 500 a month can make a difference over time.

2. Invest Wisely

When you’re ready, consider investing in mutual funds through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP). Start with small SIPs. These offer better returns than traditional savings methods like FDs.

3. Focus on Long-Term Goals

Think about your long-term financial goals—buying a house, retirement, etc. Start planning for these once your debts are under control.

Final Insights
You’ve acknowledged your financial difficulties, which is the first step toward solving them. With a structured plan and disciplined approach, you can overcome this challenge. Focus on repaying high-interest debts first, reduce unnecessary expenses, and explore additional income sources. Building a small emergency fund and planning for future investments are also key steps.

Remember, there’s a way out of every problem. It might take time, but with persistence, you can regain control over your finances and live a stress-free life.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7026 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 06, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 20, 2024Hindi
Money
Sir my monthly salary is 20625 and I took a personal loan of 300000 lacs multiple loan app last 2 year and I have credit card also but with my daily expenses I couldn't pay the total emis and bills so I took some credit from cred application it's almost 1 lacs and now I'm unable to pay any of them as my salary is very low to pay so many emis I can't stop thinking about all this I'm facing anxiety and depression due to debts. I want to come out of this debt and get clean from all this problem. I want to save money and live a normal life. I couldn't share it with anyone also. My father us retired and he couldn't help me.
Ans: I truly understand how stressful financial difficulties can be. It's commendable that you're seeking help to resolve your debts and plan for a better future. Let's develop a comprehensive strategy to tackle your debts and set you on the path to financial stability.

Understanding Your Financial Situation
Firstly, it’s crucial to understand the full picture of your financial situation. Here’s what we know:

Monthly salary: Rs. 20,625
Personal loan: Rs. 3,00,000
Additional credit: Rs. 1,00,000
Total debt: Rs. 4,00,000
Monthly expenses are high, making it difficult to pay EMIs and bills.
Emotional and Mental Well-being
Debt and financial stress can lead to anxiety and depression. It's important to take care of your mental health. Try to talk to a trusted friend or family member about your situation. Sometimes, sharing your burden can make it feel lighter. Professional counseling can also be very helpful.

Immediate Steps to Manage Debt
1. Create a Detailed Budget
List all your monthly income and expenses. This will help you see where your money is going and identify areas where you can cut costs.

2. Prioritize Essential Expenses
Ensure that your basic needs such as food, rent, and utilities are covered first. Allocate funds for these before paying off debts.

3. Negotiate with Creditors
Contact your lenders and explain your situation. They might be willing to restructure your loans or provide a more manageable repayment plan. Some may even offer a temporary reduction in payments.

4. Avoid Taking More Loans
Stop taking new loans or using credit cards. This will only add to your debt and make the situation worse.

Debt Repayment Strategies
1. Debt Consolidation
Consider consolidating all your debts into one loan with a lower interest rate. This can simplify your payments and reduce the overall interest you pay.

2. Debt Snowball Method
Focus on paying off the smallest debts first while making minimum payments on larger ones. Once a small debt is cleared, move on to the next smallest. This method gives you a psychological boost as you see debts being eliminated.

3. Debt Avalanche Method
Prioritize paying off the debt with the highest interest rate first while making minimum payments on others. This method reduces the total interest you pay over time.

Boosting Your Income
1. Part-time Jobs or Freelancing
Look for opportunities to earn extra income through part-time jobs or freelancing. Even a small additional income can help reduce your debt faster.

2. Sell Unused Items
Consider selling items you no longer need. This can provide a quick influx of cash to put towards your debts.

Long-term Financial Planning
Once your immediate debts are under control, focus on building a stable financial future.

1. Emergency Fund
Start building an emergency fund to cover 3-6 months of expenses. This will provide a cushion for unexpected financial challenges.

2. Systematic Savings Plan
Begin saving a small portion of your income regularly. Even a small amount can grow over time through disciplined saving.

3. Avoid Unnecessary Spending
Be mindful of your spending habits. Prioritize needs over wants and avoid impulse purchases.

Investment Planning
After stabilizing your financial situation, consider investing to grow your wealth. Here's a simple guide on different investment options.

1. Mutual Funds
Mutual funds pool money from many investors to purchase securities. They offer diversification and professional management.

Equity Funds: Invest in stocks, providing high returns but with higher risk.
Debt Funds: Invest in bonds, offering stable returns with lower risk.
Hybrid Funds: Combine equity and debt, balancing risk and return.
2. Power of Compounding
Investing early allows you to benefit from compounding, where your earnings generate more earnings. This can significantly grow your wealth over time.

Disadvantages of Index Funds
Index funds aim to replicate the performance of a market index. Here are some drawbacks:

Lack of Flexibility: Cannot adapt to market changes.
Market Risk: Entirely exposed to market fluctuations.
Lower Returns: Often underperform actively managed funds.
Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds are managed by professionals who make investment decisions to outperform the market.

Flexibility: Managers can adapt to market changes.
Potential for Higher Returns: Aim to beat the market.
Risk Management: Professional managers can mitigate risks.
Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Direct funds have no intermediary, potentially saving costs but have drawbacks:

Lack of Guidance: No professional advice.
Time-Consuming: Requires active management and monitoring.
Higher Risk: Without expert guidance, risk of poor decisions increases.
Benefits of Regular Funds Through CFP
Investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) offers numerous advantages:

Professional Advice: Expert guidance on fund selection and portfolio management.
Regular Monitoring: Continuous review and adjustments to optimize returns.
Tailored Portfolio: Customized investment strategy to meet your specific goals.
Tax Planning
Effective tax planning can enhance your savings and investment returns.

1. Utilize Tax Deductions
Maximize deductions under sections like 80C through investments in PPF, ELSS, and other eligible instruments.

2. Health Insurance
Premiums paid for health insurance can be deducted under Section 80D, reducing your taxable income.

Estate Planning
Ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes through proper estate planning.

1. Draft a Will
Clearly state how your assets should be distributed. This prevents legal complications and ensures your wishes are honored.

2. Appoint Nominees
Appoint nominees for your bank accounts, insurance policies, and investments. This simplifies the transfer of assets in case of your absence.

Final Insights
Financial challenges can be overwhelming, but with a structured approach, you can overcome them. Prioritize your debts, create a budget, and look for ways to boost your income. Once your debts are under control, focus on building a stable financial future through disciplined saving and investing.

Consult a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) for personalized advice and guidance. Stay disciplined, and remember, small steps can lead to significant progress.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7026 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 15, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 02, 2024Hindi
Money
I am 22 years old with a monthly salary of 36 thousand in hand after deductions i have a health insurance of 5 lacks and for both parents 3 lacks and a family loan of 17 lacks in total. Epf of 40 thousand. My monthly living expenses are around 20 thousand and how can i clear the loans, can it be done by investing, kindly guild me.
Ans: Congratulations on starting your financial journey at such a young age. It’s commendable that you are thinking about clearing loans and planning your investments early. With proper planning and disciplined execution, you can achieve your financial goals. Let's analyze your current situation and explore potential strategies to help you manage and clear your loans effectively.

Understanding Your Financial Position

Let's break down your current financial position:

Monthly salary: Rs 36,000
Health insurance: Rs 5 lakhs
Parents' health insurance: Rs 3 lakhs
Family loan: Rs 17 lakhs
EPF: Rs 40,000
Monthly expenses: Rs 20,000
Assessing Your Loan Situation

Your total family loan stands at Rs 17 lakhs. It's essential to understand the interest rates, tenure, and monthly EMIs for these loans. This will help us determine the best strategy for repayment.

Budgeting for Loan Repayment

You have a monthly income of Rs 36,000 and expenses of Rs 20,000, leaving you with Rs 16,000. This surplus can be utilized for loan repayment and investments.

Creating a Repayment Strategy

Prioritize High-Interest Loans:
Identify which loans have the highest interest rates. Prioritize paying these off first to reduce your overall interest burden.

Debt Consolidation:
If you have multiple loans with varying interest rates, consider consolidating them into a single loan with a lower interest rate. This can simplify your repayments and potentially reduce your interest costs.

Increase EMI Payments:
If possible, increase your monthly EMI payments. This will help you clear the loans faster and save on interest payments.

Emergency Fund

Before aggressively paying off your loans, ensure you have an emergency fund in place. This should cover at least 3-6 months' worth of living expenses. Given your monthly expenses are Rs 20,000, aim for an emergency fund of Rs 60,000 to Rs 1,20,000. This will provide a safety net in case of any unforeseen expenses or loss of income.

Investing While Repaying Loans

Investing while repaying loans can seem challenging, but it’s possible with careful planning.

Start Small:
Begin with a small portion of your surplus, say Rs 5,000 per month. This can be increased as you gain more control over your finances.

Systematic Investment Plan (SIP):
Invest in mutual funds through SIPs. This allows you to invest a fixed amount regularly and benefit from rupee cost averaging.

Diversify Your Investments:
Allocate your investments across different asset classes such as equity and debt. This balances risk and potential returns.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds

While index funds may seem attractive due to lower fees, actively managed funds offer several advantages:

Expert Management:
Actively managed funds are handled by professional fund managers who make investment decisions based on research and market conditions.

Potential for Higher Returns:
These funds aim to outperform the market index, offering the potential for higher returns.

Flexibility:
Fund managers can adjust the portfolio in response to market changes, potentially reducing risk.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds

Investing in direct funds may seem cost-effective but has drawbacks:

Lack of Guidance:
Direct funds don’t provide access to professional advice, which can be crucial for making informed investment decisions.

Time and Effort:
Managing your own investments requires significant time and effort to research and monitor the market.

Potential for Mistakes:
Without expert guidance, there is a higher risk of making poor investment decisions.

The Importance of Professional Guidance

Working with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can offer several benefits:

Personalized Advice:
A CFP can provide tailored advice based on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and current situation.

Holistic Planning:
They consider all aspects of your financial life, including loans, investments, insurance, and retirement planning.

Regular Reviews:
A CFP can help you regularly review and adjust your financial plan to stay on track.

Steps to Clear Loans and Build Wealth

Create a Detailed Budget:
Track your income and expenses meticulously. This will help you identify areas where you can cut back and allocate more towards loan repayment and investments.

Automate Savings and Investments:
Set up automatic transfers for loan EMIs, savings, and investments. This ensures consistency and prevents the temptation to spend surplus money.

Monitor Your Progress:
Regularly review your loan balances and investment portfolio. Celebrate small milestones to stay motivated.

Increase Income:
Look for opportunities to increase your income, such as taking on freelance work, pursuing additional qualifications, or seeking a higher-paying job.

Avoid New Debt:
Refrain from taking on new debt unless absolutely necessary. This will help you focus on clearing existing loans faster.

Maintaining a Balanced Approach

While it’s important to focus on clearing your loans, don’t neglect your investments. A balanced approach ensures you’re not only reducing debt but also building wealth for the future.

Reviewing Insurance Coverage

Your current health insurance covers Rs 5 lakhs for yourself and Rs 3 lakhs for your parents. Ensure this coverage is adequate for potential medical emergencies. If necessary, consider increasing your coverage or adding critical illness insurance.

Exploring Tax Benefits

Take advantage of tax deductions available on loan interest payments and investments. This can reduce your taxable income and increase your savings.

Communicate with Family

Discuss your financial goals and repayment strategy with your family. Their support and understanding can make the journey smoother.

Final Insights

Your financial journey is off to a great start. With disciplined budgeting, strategic loan repayment, and smart investing, you can achieve your goals. Stay committed, seek professional guidance when needed, and regularly review your progress.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Dr Shyam

Dr Shyam Jamalabad  |78 Answers  |Ask -

Dentist - Answered on Nov 14, 2024

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Health
Dr. Shyam, I had my teeth cleaned 6 months ago and after that was done I saw discoloration on certain teeth that wasn't there before. Years ago I had my teeth cleaned and one particular tooth after the cleaning was sensitive to touch. I had a crown put in from two different dental offices. The first one did the crown right, but was trying to charge me $3,500 more than the agreement they made with Medicare. Medicare corrected that. I other dentist did a crown and it didn't go all the way up to my gums and is sensitive to especially cold things. I'm not having very good experiences with dentist by and large. Can't find an honest one or one that can actually do the job right. I feel being on Medicare your a target to bring in money. Not sure what to do next. Supposed to go back and have them redo the crown that didn't go to my gums, but it also was ttd place to didn't clean my teeth right and discolored some of them. Any suggestions on how to trust there is actually an capable and honest dentist out there who can perform properly?
Ans: Identifying a capable and honest dentist is crucial for your oral health and well-being. Here are some tips to help you find one:

1. Ask for referrals: Ask friends, family, or coworkers for recommendations. They can provide valuable insights into a dentist's work quality and bedside manner.

2. Check credentials: Ensure the dentist has the necessary qualifications, certifications, and licenses. You can verify this information with your state's dental board or professional organizations like the American Dental Association (ADA).

3. Check online reviews: Look up the dentist on review platforms. Pay attention to the overall rating and read the comments to understand the strengths and weaknesses. At the same time, do not rely on reviews alone as these can be manipulated, fake reviews can be easily generated.

4. Evaluate their communication style: A good dentist should listen to your concerns, explain procedures clearly, and answer questions patiently. Ensure you feel comfortable asking questions and discussing your treatment.

5. Assess their facility and equipment: A well-organized and modern dental office with up-to-date equipment is a good sign.

6. Check their approach to preventive care: A capable dentist emphasizes preventive care, including regular cleanings, exams, and education on oral hygiene.

7. Be wary of over-treatment: A honest dentist will not recommend unnecessary procedures. Be cautious if you feel pressured into extensive treatments.

8. Trust your instincts: If something feels off or you don't click with the dentist, it's okay to explore other options.

10. Schedule a consultation: Many dentists offer initial consultations or meet-and-greets. Use this opportunity to assess their approach, ask questions, and gauge your comfort level.

By following these steps, you can increase your chances of finding a capable and honest dentist who prioritizes your oral health and well-being.

...Read more

Ravi

Ravi Mittal  |416 Answers  |Ask -

Dating, Relationships Expert - Answered on Nov 14, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 03, 2024Hindi
Listen
Relationship
Hi, I am 30 years old not married & now my parents are forcing me to get married. I think i am good looking guy. It's not like i have never been with girls. I have had brief flings with multiple girls. And there was one girl whom i was in a platonic relationship with with lot of emotional sharing & have spent a lot of time with her. The same goes with another girl. Both of them have told me that i have been pretty cool & girls would like me to be their bf or husband. But i am not able to accept anyone because of the guilt that of my past that i never had a relationship. Never been able to tell anyone that i had a gf. I know this is wrong to compare my life but i can't stop thinking that way. Can you tell me what to do? Like a contsant regret of not having a very steamy cool fancy relationship from outside. I know relationships have it's own ups & downs. But this guilt is killing me that i missed out lot of things in life & if get married in an arranged marriage i would feel myself to be a looser who couldn't even find a girl on his own. Though i know all of these comparisons are wrong & i should be rational. I am not able to help it. Please help me out
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
Whatever you are feeling, it is very normal. More people than you could imagine go through this same phase. But as you mentioned, these are just thoughts; there is no truth to them. Not having a relationship does not make you uncool. It merely means that you did not meet your perfect match yet. I understand that you feel like you have missed out on something and that feeling is valid. It might not be reasonable, but it's very natural to think this way. I can suggest one thing- why don't you try a dating or matchmaking app to find your own partner? That way, you will be keeping your parents' wishes and won't let yourself down either. It will also give you more control over choosing your life partner.

Hope this helps.

...Read more

DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

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