FAMILY LIVING AREAS OF INTEREST

In our current era of financial hardships, it isn't always simple finding the best alternative for dealing with debt. Learn more
about reducing debt and being watchful for unscrupulous lenders.

These links may provide helpful information to aid you in dealing with debt.

Searching for financial help can not only be frustrating it can also be time consuming.
As with any financial decision, you need to carefully consider your options.

VALUABLE TAX CREDIT AVAILABLE FOR SOME
LOW TO MODERATE INCOME WORKERS

Information on Lincoln County and Other Assistance Programs

Credit and Debt Resources

Predatory Lending Practices

• Consumers Beware
• Homeowners Beware

Reverse Mortgages:

On average, housing is Americans' single largest asset. A reverse mortgage is a special type of loan that enables homeowners age 62 and older to convert some of their homes’ equity into tax-free cash. These types of loans don’t have to be repaid until the homeowner moves, sells, or dies. The number of homeowners taking advantage of reverse mortgages is on the rise. In 2006, almost 80,000 senior citizens across the United States took out a reverse mortgage – nearly double the number in 2005. More than 100,000 of these loans had been taken out midway through 2007.

Reverse mortgages are only one of many financial planning tools available to older homeowners. This type of loan may not fit the needs of every homeowner, so it’s important to have all of the facts before making a decision. Concerns have also been cited about subprime loan officers shifting into the senior market as the subprime market continues to tighten up (Reuters, 5/07). Reverse mortgage borrowers are required to obtain an eligibility certificate by receiving free counseling with a HUD-approved agency.

For more information on reverse mortgages, check out these websites:

• Facts for Consumers - Reverse Mortgages: Get the Facts Before Cashing in on Your Home's Equity
• Home Buying - Reverse Mortgages for Seniors
• Reverse Mortgages (AARP Website)
• Consumer Information from National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association
  

Additional areas of interest:

• Family Living Links of Interest
• CWD (Chronic Wasting Disease) Information (630kb,2 pages)
• Home Maintenance & Repair Topics
• Managing Between Jobs Publications
  Have you experienced a recent loss in income or layoff?  Visit the following UWEX Family Living website link to find the updated bulletin series “Managing Between Jobs”.  The bulletins can be read free while online, and have helpful information and worksheets that can help you to take proactive steps that may help you and your family from ending up in severe financial distress.
• Food Contamination and Company Recalls

Foods

• Food Preservation and Safety
• USDA Complete Guide to Home Canning
• UW-Madison Food Safety & Health
• Food Safety in an Emergency

STAFF

If you have any questions regarding Family Living in Lincoln County, please contact: