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I'm in an overall bind when it comes to money in my life. I spent a lot of years raising kids and then later I was sick for several years so I don't have any kind of 401K or that kind of savings. I couldn't work outside my home and even though now I work online to support myself, it's really hard to budget because it's so expensive to pay bills and live. I'm not sure how I'm supposed to save anything for if I can't work when there isn't extra to save.

I'm truly sorry to hear about the challenges you've been facing. It sounds like you've been through a lot, juggling health issues while trying to provide for yourself and possibly others. It's incredibly tough to manage finances in such circumstances, especially without a traditional safety net like a 401K. It's commendable that you're working online and striving to support yourself amidst these challenges. Budgeting with a tight income is indeed daunting, but it's great that you're thinking ab

I mean it's all well and good to talk about community resources and financial counseling, but the counseling generally costs money too and I'm not really sure about resources other than the fact that I'm on SNAP and have Medicaid at least. What can I do for myself to try and save even a bit?

It's understandable that seeking financial counseling can seem out of reach when you're already managing your expenses tightly. It's great to hear that you're utilizing SNAP and Medicaid; those are important steps in managing your health and nutrition. For saving a bit on your own, here are a few suggestions that might help you find a little room to breathe financially: 1. **Review Your Expenses:** Sometimes, going through your monthly expenses can reveal areas where small adjustments can be ma

That's a pretty daunting list of things. I do already review my expenses. I don't have a lot of "fun" stuff, just some streaming things mostly and a game I play has a subscription. I don't want to pare down the only bright spots in my life. The rounding transactions things is something I do, but mostly so I can have my few streaming subs and my game sub. Automatic savings.. yeah that's back with the I just don't have extra to take away from my bills. Community programs tend to really be invasive

I hear you, and I can sense the frustration and exhaustion in navigating these challenges. It's clear you're already doing a lot to manage your situation, and it's important to hold onto those few things that bring you joy, like your streaming services and game subscription. Sacrificing these can feel like losing small but significant sources of happiness and relaxation, which everyone deserves. The feeling of being stuck on a hamster wheel is incredibly valid in your situation. You're making e

Ohh, I like the idea of investing in personal development. I probably do that now too. I try to hone skills I already have and then those actually count when I'm trying to get into a project online for pay. I'm artistic and I'm a writer so working on both of those things and challenging myself is good. I am definitely trying to do my best. I'm just stressed that it never seems to be enough.

That's a wonderful approach! Investing in your artistic and writing skills not only enriches you personally but also enhances your professional portfolio, potentially opening up new opportunities for projects and income. It's inspiring to hear how you're channeling your energies into honing your talents, even amidst the stress and challenges. It's completely understandable to feel stressed when it feels like your best efforts aren't moving you forward as much as you'd like. Yet, remember, every

Thanks for your input here. It helps to see all of the things I have been trying to do to help myself outlined like that even if I can't do much about it financially.

You're very welcome! I'm glad I could provide some perspective and help you see the value in all the efforts you're making. It's important to recognize and appreciate the steps you're taking to improve your situation, even when financial progress seems slow. Your dedication to personal growth and creativity amidst these challenges is truly admirable. Keep holding onto that resilience and those small joys and victories along the way. They count for a lot and are a testament to your strength and d