If you’re offended by the word “bitch,” I highly suggest averting your eyes right now and finding something better in my archives :) But for once, using naughty words is out of my control – it’s in the title of a new (feisty) financial book out!
“Rich Bitch” by Nicole Lapin
I first came across Nicole on Twitter when we randomly started chatting about money, and then later realized she was a pretty big deal – hah. (She was the youngest anchor ever over at CNN and CNBC, while frequently contributing financial reports to MSNBC and Today too. A little bit more legit than a, *ahem*, blog.) But what really caught my eye was the sexiest, nerdiest, watch I’d ever seen in existence! The CASH SmartWatch she designed and built to help you track your money on your wrist! Haha… Fashionable AND financial! :)
But that’s for another day when I get my hands on one to test out and then give to one of y’all ;) Today we have a couple of Rich Bitch books to hand out instead which is equally entertaining…
About the Rich Bitch book:
I’m going to cheat and steal the bio from Amazon because I think it sums it up perfectly (and admittedly I haven’t read it yet – so you’ll have to tell me what you think when you win it!):
“Talking about money sucks; but so does being broke… In RICH BITCH, money expert and financial journalist Nicole Lapin lays out a 12-Step Plan in which she shares her experiences, mistakes and all, of getting her own finances in order. No lecturing, just help from a friend… Lapin rethinks every piece of financial wisdom you’ve ever heard and puts her own fresh, modern, sassy spin on it.
Sure, there are some hard-and-fast rules about finance, but when it comes to your money, the only person who can spend it is you. Should you invest in a 401(k)? Maybe not. Should you splurge on that morning latte? Likely yes. Instead of nickel-and-diming yourself, Nicole’s advice focuses on investing in yourself so you don’t have to stress over the little things.”
And if you haven’t guessed it yet, it’s mainly targeted to you women :) Though I’m sure it would be just as interesting/helpful to read as a dude too. I especially like that uses REGULAR language in it and says it’s probably okay to spend money on coffee – which I agree completely, as long as you’re not splurging in *all* categories of your life.
Here are the 12 steps she covers in the book to give you a better idea of her style/tips:
- STOP SMILING AND NODDING – Embrace the Rich Bitch Attitude
- HELLO, IT’S A MARATHON AND A SPRINT – Get a Grip on Your Future
- YOUR NEW LBD – Create a Little Budget Diary That Fits YOU
- PUT A ROOF ON IT – Home Is Where Your Stuff Is
- EAT, PRAY, DRIVE – Transportation, Food, Insurance and Other Essential Expenses
- GET THAT MONKEY OFF YOUR BACK – Paying Down Debt
- LOCK IT UP – Saving Sucks but So Does Being Broke
- WORK IT, BITCHES – Put Your Career in Overdrive (reminds me of that Britney Spears song!)
- AGING GRACEFULLY – You Will Get Older—Do It in Style
- MAKE IT GROW, BABY, GROW – Investing Is Just Not That Serious
- BEING UNDER, OVER AND ON TOP OF “THE MAN” – Rich Bitches in a Man’s World
- BRINGING IT HOME – Your Life Is Your Business
Want Your Own (FREE) Copy of Rich Bitch?
This book is hot off the press and we’re giving away TWO COPIES of them today. All you have to do to enter is give me your sassiest look while answering the following question:
What’s the one area in your finances you need the most help with?
Leave your answers down below in the comments, and we’ll choose the two winners after midnight next Sunday, March 15th. You can learn more about the book here: Rich Bitch: A Simple 12-Step Plan for Getting Your Financial Life Together… Finally, and more about Nicole Lapin here: NicoleLapin.com
Good luck bitches! ;) And have a great weekend!
UPDATE: Giveaway now over. Congrats to Heather (commenter #23) and Eliza Pelham Randall! And thanks for participating y’all! Great group of future Rich Bitches here ;)
————
PS: If you were counting, the word “bitch” shows up 21 22 times today, beating my previous record of 11 profanities. Oddly enough from that same Britney Spears post! (Why does she keep popping up here?)
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This book looks like so much fun!
Mine would be… paying off debt (and not getting into debt again)! The switch seemed to finally get made in my head that I want all of my debt gone. I long for that freedom and I’m on my way. Working on some side hustles to make it happen as fast as possible.
Thanks so much for the opportunity!
All my finance areas could use a tweak but paying down debt and keeping it down.
Ouu! Finally a personal finance book that looks like it will keep you entertained. I think I have a pretty good handle on paying down debt but now I find it super hard to save and invest, especially for retirement since it seems like it’s a lifetime away! I could definitely use some help with that.
Another book that’s actually pretty entertaining is Ramit’s “I Will teach You To Be Rich.” In a way it reminds me of this book here only from a guy! Haha…
Here’s all my fave financial books btw if anyone reading is interested:
https://budgetsaresexy.com/recommend/
I think I need the most help with budgeting — I fall into the trap of thinking that I don’t need a budget because I spend less than I make, but I could be spending more efficiently. I got YNAB so hopefully that’ll help :)
Paying down debt!
Becoming rich has been a problem! I have been doing well with money but seemed to have hit a barrier that I can’t break through. Sort of a glass ceiling in terms of earning and net worth.
Budgeting while self employed and getting your partner on board.
I need help not spending so much money eating out; learning how to do a better job at grocery shopping and making food at home.
My biggest thing right now is prioritizing financial goals such as saving to pay cash for a car, downpayment on a house, etc. I’m already debt-free and put money in my 401k and max my Roth.
INVESTING. Tired of hearing the same ol’ same ol’ that “women are more risk averse” and “women don’t invest” and we want to stick on the safe side….I say bring it on, and this book seems to truly embody that concept! I’m young, I’ve got time & compounding to be incredibly thankful for — I’m always looking for more resources to enhance my investing knowledge! So on the flip side of Britney Spears telling me to work, I want to tell my money to work! ;)
BAM!
This book looks great! The area that I need the most help with is keeping up with a budget that makes sense with my lifestyle ans schedule.
I need help with not spending so much at restaurants and bars!
BUDGETING AND STICKING WITH IT! I have avoidance behavior with this subject. I feel like i deserve to splurge when i dont!
Paying down debt!
When I was brainstorming the direction I wanted to go with my book last year, I almost did exactly this (good thing a didn’t). I’m a big fan of tough love and telling it like it is.
What I need help with most I am getting from your website! I needed INSPIRATION and MOTIVATION to get this train going to get out of debt by June 1, 2015 and save $10K in Side Hustles by Christmas! You and Little Vee and have shown me that it IS possible and that IT CAN BE DONE!!! I have started a “$10K Challenge” in our household and have asked to start a group to do it together at work! I’m in – already started a separate savings account – and labeled it “The $10K Challenge!”. This book sounds like it will keep me motivated when I can’t be around the computer reading your blog – I would love a free copy of this book!!!
Rock on!!! Music to my ears, friend!
I need help to stop spending on my ever-so-convenient restaurant habit.
Probably saving for a house & paying down the last of my car debt. I’ve hit a barrier I can’t seem to break through ever since I paid off $19,000 of student loan debt in 9 1/2 months. I can’t seem to get back in the grove and start killing my car debt which is at $8000 and save for a down payment.
Paying off my student loans (slowly but surely), starting a 401K and asking for what I deserve in my career! My review is coming up and I’m unsure how to ask for the salary I want. I know for a fact there are some male employees at my level making more than me, and I would like to bring it up in my review in a professional but serious manner! Help!
I need help with saving for short term goals!
I’m definitely the worst at investing. We have IRAs and a mutual fund, but I’d like to get more into that stuff.
Mine would definitely paying down debt and not getting back into debt because the man in my life (who is a spender) says he supports getting out of debt but still likes to spend as if we have no money concerns! That’s another story for another day.
My biggest pain point is spending money out dining and getting the most for my investing. My debt is otherwise well-handled and I want to know options on emergency funds and where to place them.
While I probably need the most help putting my career in overdrive, I want to read chapter 11 the most- who doesn’t love a title full of sexual innuendo.
Right now, I’m struggling with the two headed monster of “I’m saving more than most, so that should be fine, except that I know I could be doing more.”
Paying down debt and shopping as an activity. I hate that’s what I think of when bored.
I think my weakest area of financial knowledge is investing. I don’t have enough money saved yet to even venture into that world, but it is on the horizon. I don’t want to lose what I worked so hard to save to watch it disappear in seconds because of bad decisions. At the same time, I don’t want to miss out on maximum growth because I’m too ignorant and afraid to try investing.
my finances period
Definitely interested in more advice on buying vs. renting. I think the “put a roof on it chapter” would be the first one I read.
Budgeting, definitely!
I’m trying to get rid of those darn student loans as well as saving for retirement and other goals!
I’m great on the debt and savings fronts. Biggest area I need help with is diversifying myself and my investments.
Spending used to be my biggest issue but I’ve reigned that in over the past several months and it’s been especially great lately with the shopping ban for Lent. I think I’ll be able to keep that up after the 40 days–there are so many things I was spending money on that I don’t even miss!
My biggest challenge is making more money. I love the idea but taking the leap to do something about it has me paralyzed.
So glad to hear you’re doing the ban with me!!! In a way that will be like “making more money” cuz you’re saving so much in the process! ;)
Paying down debt, mostly because I need to make more money. I’m working on that now.
Oh Man! This book looks amazing. If I don’t win it I might have to buy it… I need help with controlling my shopping monster. Yikes!
I need desperate help with building and saving for retirement!!!!!!!!!! And my husband has ZERO retirement right now, he’s over forty, and that’s very concerning and time to do something about it!!! But how to invest and what to do exactly???!
And here’s my sassy look: http://img2.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20140215083639/frozendisney/images/6/6d/Frozen-Snow-Queen-Elsa.jpg
haha…. and I know exactly who she is too, as I can never get her song out of my head!!!
Definitely paying down my debt!
Now that all our debt is gone, my biggest challenge is investing. 401k? ROTH IRA? Mutual fund what???
All you need.
http://jlcollinsnh.com/stock-series/
And the library. A wealth of info. Read all you don’t at first without worrying about the source. Once you get a little educated you can start to weed authors out and go a little deeper. Audio books are good too.
DEBT!
It’s a ball-busting joy-crusher and I’m over it.
(Insert arched eyebrow here)
You said to give you a sassy look, and since I can’t insert a picture, the eyebrow comment will have to suffice. *snaps fingers*
Anywho! I could really use help paying off mine and my husband’s student loans on a TIIIIIGHT budget. For once I’m not using “TIIIIIIGHT” in a super awesome day, but in a sad, kind of pathetic way.
Help a sister out!
I like it ;)
I’ve been doing pretty good at making goals and paying down debt (just paid off my car and now my only debt is my mortgage!) but I’d reach my goals faster if I could get some of my smaller spending habits in check. Eating out, coffee runs, misc spending…it adds up. PS-Heard lots of great reviews about this book!
This sounds like an amazing book! While I feel like we have evrythkng under control financially, I could use the most help in putting my career in overdrive and investing. I feel like one can never learn enough about investing!
My biggest challenge is making more money. Saving is great, but you can truly only save so much, so my main priority is increasing my income. And I totally need to stop doing the smile/head nod thing!
I think you need to make some “j. money” bracelets then so we can sell here and help you get rich faster ;)
paying down debt
One area in my finances I need help with is keeping my husband within our budget. :)
I’M A RICH BITCH! (My new mantra)
My next step on my financial path is to determine where else to invest. I’m marginally invested and not earning a lot. I need to develop a plan for either investing more in stocks or heading into real estate. I just don’t know what’s right for this gal.
My Sassy Look for today:
http://i.imgur.com/Yvpog5q.jpg
The sparkly pink phone case locks it in :)
The area I need to focus most on for my finances is really buckling down to get that down payment for a house. There just always seems to be something else getting in the way.
I need help figuring out how to go back to school (premedical and then medical school) and not get killed by the student debt. I’ve managed to secure my home with a loan mod and figured out how to rent my place out to support itself and possibly even me somewhat while I’m relocated for school (thanks to AirBNB and VRBO this is an option and I have found a manager who does this for friends quite profitably!), but the school loans and living expenses loom large on the future debt spectrum. I’m looking into the whole loan forgiveness, public service angles and trying to get a handle on grants and scholarships and that arena.
A big topic: How can I create a budget for school without knowing ANY of the specifics?
Rent in SF is expensivo
School costs will depend on what, if any grants/scholarships the school can extend via financial aid.
Everything else is hypothetical, even transportation costs depending on where I can find that is affordable to live. Add at least 200+/month for MUNI in SF is what I’ve found so far.
Hey J:
I need this book not for me but for my CLIENTS! In addition to my main gig as a CPA, my side hustle is building my business as a divorce coach and consultant for women. Empowering my gals to take charge of their finances to get what they want in life is EXACTLY what I do. I like Nicole’s style and want to be able to share it with the women who need my help so pick me please!
Have a great weekend Mr. Money,
Love it!! Hopefully you’ll be lucky and the randomizer will choose you to win!
No way in hell i’m going to select the winners out of all you smart & sassy women :)
My biggest obstacles are sticking to my budget and emotional spending!
paying off my mortgage!
Hi, would love to learn how to increase my income quickly in order to save, invest, pay down debt, create a nest egg. :)
This sounds like a cool book, and 21 profanities in 1 post is the upper echelon of cool J. Ok this book will go to Misses MoneyWatch101 if we win, so ladies don’t be mad at me. She can use a bit of financial advice on how to get rid of student loan debt faster. Even though I’ve told her hundreds of times how, she barely listens to me now that we are married. Oh well here’s to all the Rich Bitches. ( I always wanted to say that)
Hahaha… so I guess she doesn’t read your blog then either?
Boooooo
This book looks awesome! Always looking for new/entertaining finance books!
The area of finance I need the most help with is Investing/Growing my wealth outside of the 401k. I have gotten so used to stashing cash in a savings account instead of investing that it’s hard for me to stop and focus on the next goals!
A little off topic but what is up with you and creepy Brittney man? I just don’t get!
Back to question at hand…nope I just wanna know about the Brittney thing ;-)
Haha…
I don’t have a good answer for you :)
We eat rich foods, but we are not rich people. I need help cutting my grocery spending. $1000 a month for two people. I make meticulous lists, buy dried goods in bulk, look for deals and coupons, stick to the dirty dozen list for organic food, and I still can’t get that number down.
If you have an Aldi’s in your area you can try that. Also Sprouts is a cheap alternative to Whole foods. 400 – 500 a month for a family of 5. It can be done.
I need the most help with managing my spending on food/entertainment. I am a single woman so cooking (lunch) and eating out/entertainment is where most of my money goes especially because I live in one of the most expensive cities in the world. (I love NYC more than anyone but man, EVERY social outing or hang out costs $$$$!). Help!!
My problem is saving – – long term. It seems I can save save save then in one clean swoop it’s gone! hate that!
PAYING.DOWN.DEBT!
My finances need major help! I’m a divorced 34 year old teacher with a 2 year old and a 4 year old, who previously didn’t have to budget! I need help putting my income on overdrive and paying down debt. The Rich Bitch inside of me is ready to come out!
I need help budgeting and with student loans. Sigh, the curse of life trying to manage money like an adult.
I need help with being okay with less. It’s the thing that I struggle with the most. Being okay with less is the key to sticking to a budget, saving that money, and achieving financial independence while I’m still young enough to enjoy it.
Passive income, of course. I LOVE that watch and must have one – good thing it seems it won’t be available until October – I need to quit spending money for a minute ;)
Paying down debt! I recently graduated from college and those student loans are no joke. (By the way J$, I’ve followed your blog for months but this is the first time I’m commenting) =)
Well thanks for doing so, new friend! Always love seeing people adding to the conversation – continue doing so if the mood strikes you :)
In finances I need to be better at balancing. I am much of an all or nothing kinda gal, i.e. I want to have a huge sum of money to pay down my credit card debt in one swoop (that would be bitchin’ wouldn’t it?) or I really beat myself up when I go out to lunch with a friend or buy a new item for something important (like a job interview–you know to put my career in overdrive ;))
Paying off credit card debt while still having money to live.
I’m all about the paying down debt part. That’s my main focus right now. I came across Nicole because I looked up who were the biggest influencers that had shared my post in the past, and she was on the top of the list (I don’t have cable, so I admit I didn’t know who she was either), but she’s got it going on :)
Dealing with medical bills and improve budgeting.
The one area of my finances that need the most help with is with mortgages and the financial implications of buying a home. I’m currently renting and would like to one day buy a home but I realize that there is a lot to know before I can feel comfortable making such a big purchase!
The area I need help with is controlling my spending and getting out of debt!
I would love this! My areas of improvement are 1) decreasing impulse buys in order to 2) increase retirement!!
i spend way too much money shopping… especially online. oooooooooooooh those shoes! ooooooooooooooh nice bag! well, there goes my budget. so much for a “no spend” month. and that’s it.
I have a healthy savings and no debt, but I need help and confidence in knowing how to diversify and invest.
I definitely need to be better about consistency. I fluctuate between dropping hundreds of dollars on clothes in one month and depriving myself from shopping the next
paying off debt and building retirement
I’m still too much of a people pleaser. I think this book could give me some pointers about being a business lady in a man’s world.
The financial area I need the most help with would definitely getting out of debt. My credit card has been super helpful but it’s also been a real bitch to pay off.
Hey! I am gonna be a RICH MATURE BITCH ! This is the time. Turning 60 in May. Sick and tired of being “broke, bothered and bewildered.” This book is gonna support me in realizing my business plan. I’ve been a public servant in education for years, paying bills and raising a family, but now it’s time to raise the bar and bring in the big bucks. I’m ready. No kidding. Seriously.
YES! Work it sister!
I need help with the investing beyond the standard 401K/IRA. That’s where I could really get better!
This book looks fantastic! Can’t wait to read it.
I could most use help with gearing up to possibly buy a home. I know home ownership doesn’t always make the most sense, but the way things are right now I think we could buy a house and spend less on a monthly mortgage (even including all the extras that come along with home ownership) than we currently spend in rent. And we’d have more space.
Saving money now that I am finally starting my career (after law school) Plus, this book looks amazing and I have a book blog that I can’t wait to talk about this one! :)
Thanks!
Michelle @ Book Briefs
In a word, investing!!! But I listened to the Wisdom of J. Money and I am currently in the process of moving my money from USAA to Vanguard. Thou I’m not quite as convinced about the whole all your eggs in one basket, Vanguard is helping me with a plan!!!
It’s probably wise to make some tweaks – I tend to go all in with things ;)
I need to be better about consistency so I’m not spending tons of money one more and forcing myself into deprivation mode the next to make up for it.
I need all the help, advice I can obtain to get out of debt by the end of this year. Learn to save without feeling like I can’t enjoy life on a daily basis. Being able to stop stressing and not allowing my thoughts, and this temporary set back take over my life.. just needing help…
I could use more education and tips on investing with tax strategies in mind. Oh, and how to keep out of restaurants!
Paying down Debt and better budgeting
I need to stop spending on wants like dining out, junk food, drinks, etc.
Debt and savings are the toughest parts for me.
I could probably tighten up my shopping/clothing budget. I just feel I’m depriving myself if I set it too low. How do I get over it? Ugh!
I want to be able to figure out how to retire and change my financial positions…for instance change in location, pay, ect
I’ve got the debt snowball rolling hard down hill and making good strides with savings. Got the 401(K) and matching funds in high gear. But, if anyone can teach me about other kinds of investing without my eyes glazing over, I would be forever in her debt (ha!).
Haha….. great name there ;)
Take a look at Prosper. I’ve heard good things about it.
INVESTING, bitch!!!
I would love to become a Rich Bitch and receive a free copy of that book!!!! My goal is to become debt free for good. My biggest headache is my student loan payments which is causing my net worth to be in the red. I would love to get help in getting my financial life back on track.
I really need to focus on a long term savings plan for the future as well as an immediate plan to get my debt down.
The one area of my finances I could use help with is “stop smiling and nodding”.
Not blowing my budget on things for my kid!!
I love the title! I have worked very hard the past few years to pay off my credit cards and car. Now I’m working toward buying a house. I think my weakest area is investing and I definitely want to improve that area!
Mine would be debt. I still have student loans to pay off but am on a tight budget and also saving for a wedding.
Debt repayment vs. savings! We have loads of student loan debt and are just starting to put money towards them, but I know we’ll be paying it off for 10+ years. How we’re supposed to also save for our future while paying down debt is completely unclear to me.
Exactly! I agree!
I need help with investing, what to do with “extra” money that’s just sitting in a savings account.
I love hearing about new books! Thanks for sharing.
Michelle, check out my new book. http://www.amazon.com/Would-You-Mind-Repeating-That/dp/0989812405 It’s not a money book, but the category of “Money” has 100+ sayings in it and it won’t cost you a pretty penny!;) http://www.amazon.com/Would-You-Mind-Repeating-That/dp/0989812405
Letting go of some of my savings to pay off debt. I finally got the guts to initiate the transfer so I can completely pay off one of my student loans. I got finally got tired of paying $40 of interest and $10 in principle every month…
Nice!
Just imagine what you can do with that “extra” $50 every month now :) Could even just automate xfers of it right back into savings if you wanted to! Or your other debts, of course.
Learning how to invest my money properly is the area I need most help in!
There was actually a pretty good interview on the Stacking Benjimins podcast the other day that you can check out here: http://www.stackingbenjamins.com/nicole-lapin-rich-bitch/
She sounds like a pretty cool chick!
That’s what reminded me to get this giveaway out the door! Haha… Big fan of Stacking Benjamins, and even more so when I get to play with them on the show :)
I’m in need of paying down debt first and then tackling all other money challenge.
figuring out the right balance of low fee investing with some professional advice, which usually comes with fees.
Added to the required reading list for this year. Thanks!
this book sounds perfect for me!!!!
I definitely need help with saving money! I would love to start investing but never seem to have enough money to start!!
I need help with managing debt and better dealing with an irregular income as an entrepreneur!
Your site and fire juggling/hooping is so cool!!!!
i drift. i get very focused on saving/paying debt/investing for months at a time, then drift away to something else. then i gotta swim up current to come back. its definitely a two steps forward, one back process for me, but its annoying.
Investing in real estate.
“What’s the one area in your finances you need the most help with?”
My stepdaughters! They are both young adults – twenty-somethings – who did not have very good financial role models when they were growing up. If I win this book, it’s going straight to the youngest one and hopefully she’ll let her older sister borrow it.
I like it :) And hopefully since “bitch” is littered throughout they’ll actually READ IT!
Could get some help in investing in real estate. :)
Spending too much money on eating out and stagnating in my career.
This book looks great. I’d have to say saving enough money for college for my two kids!
Sounds like a great book. Drop the word Bitch in the title and in your post and look a all the activity! I need the most help build wealth and investing now that we have paid off our debt.
I’ve had a lot of people unsubscribe from my site today because of the word too – hah.
increasing my emergency fund from 2 months to 6 months or more
My biggest struggle is managing multiple goals. Now that my debt is almost gone, I’m transitioning into juggling retirement, house saving, travel, emergencies and living life in general. I want to do all the things, but I struggle to find the right balance.
*Tyra Banks fierce*
Paying down debt and getting a little FU money so I can leave a toxic job!
Im about to hit my 30th birthday next month. I have 25,000 in student loan debt. 8,000 in credit card debt. 0 in savings. Sounds horrible but double that is where I was at last year. It hit me that Im about to get out of the military and should pay most if not all off. I was sent overseas for an unaccompanied tour and had to leave my then 11 month old and four year old with their stay at home dad. Everyone thought we were crazy when he got out and stayed at home with our three year old and new born. But childcare is expensive. It was good though when mommy had to go away; they still had their main care provider. Running two households IS also expensive as i found out especially when one is in NYC. First few months i was gone, we were constantly in the red. Car payments and mortgage were late. I found your blog when I searched for budgets. One of yours fit our situation perfect. I was able to get aggressive. I discovered money I didn’t even know I had. I started reading more and more about finances. Comparing different methods. Any books geared at women and finance has me at Bitch. :) better get even more aggressive. I have one year left in the military. Then Im going to grad school to increase my earnings. My kids father has a job lined up…but that and the money ill get for school is still going to put us living below what we are used to. Time to rewrite the budget. But I need to Save also. A car repair that cost 5000, drained my savings. Now im at loss on what to do without sacrificing paying off debt. I volunteered for another overseas tour to keep my earnings up. 10 months left to have a nest egg.
I’m so glad you found a budget that works!! It’s always a tweaking process in life – I’ve changed the original budget 15x since I first made it – hah. The important part is that you guys are now on track and know there’s a light at the end of the tunnel and are going towards it. Keep on hustling!
I am in a need to build my credit score. I am 52 years old, just moved to the US 4 years ago and have no credit history. I never, in my life, resorted to credit cards and bought stuff only if I had the cash. But now this strategy doesn’t seem to work anymore especially here in the US. I see people walking around with bible-thick credit cards bound by a rubber band neatly tucked in their pockets. How do they do that?
I know nobody who can be a co-signor if ever I want to buy a high-end gadget, say, car. No bank would lend me money since I got no credit history. I can say that I’m poor but thank heavens I got no debts. But even being good in managing my finances, that is, having no debt, can’t convince the bank to lend me money. How can I get a credit card? This is the one area I need most help with.
Great question, Julia! And an interesting one too – esp since you you’re so good with your money! The system is all kinds of jacked up, I agree. Credit card companies don’t want people like you and I to have a card cuz we’ll never pay them interest! Haha…. But it’s def. do-able. I’d Google around a bit and you’ll get a lot of tips. Good luck!
Thanks J for your comment. Yesterday I filed a claim and had my debit card blocked as I noticed unauthorized transactions and had to go to the bank and ask for a new card. The bank employee suggested I’d go for a credit card, saying I’m covered from theft and I can also build my credit history. I said, great, thinking I’d get the credit card immediately, but not so. I was told that I’d get the card in the mail after 7 days IF I get approved. But this is not the first time that I was offered a credit card by my bank and I never received such card-maybe because I have no credit history? I get all sorts of credit cards in the mail but they seem to bury me in no time with high interest rates so I never bite one.
You have to start small. If you have a car, the first one you should apply for is a gas card..like Firestone or Texaco. They always give you those. Even if you don’t use it, it will show up on your credit report (maybe charge your windshield washer fluid etc..). After about 3-4 months, apply for a Macy’s or department store card. More than likely, they will give you the regular card with a credit limit, no visa logo on it. Use that for like 3 months or so too. You don’t have to charge a lot, just pay on time, but keep a small balance so as you leave a trail of good behavior. Chances are almost 100% that after a few months or when your card is renewed, they will switch you to a visa logo card. By that time anyway, all those companies will be sending you the application forms in the mail, and before you know it, you will have a gazillion of them if you want. Good luck!
Thanks Kemkem for the advice. I have been contemplating getting a gas card, but I always put it off just because of my ignorance, I don’t know much about credit cards. I had a wrong notion about credit cards, I was stupidly reasoning, “Why would I resort to credit if I have a debit card!” All I ever possessed was one single debit card for 21 years (that’s when I was living in Italy). Then, wham, I’m here in the US and noticed that everyone has got more than 3 credit cards except me. One day I wanted to buy a 7k worth gadget, I don’t have the cash. The sales associate told me they can give me credit, did all the necessary papers, but in the end I was denied… I got no credit history.
Again thanks a lot, I’d definitely apply for a gas card ASAP and hope for the best.
You can check your credit score (and report!) for free too to see exactly where you stand and what others are seeing.
Just blogged about today :)
https://budgetsaresexy.com/2015/03/check-free-credit-score-report/
We are aggressively paying down our student loans but know that we are missing out on interest from investments – I would love to get that balance figured out!
Getting serious about saving for retirement. It’s out there and it just doesn’t feel like a real possibility.
It’s not the small cups of coffee and muffins every day, because I can aver those, but I can “almost” talk myself into some really big purchases sometimes. Kayak’s at Bass Pro. Fancy bar furniture at World Market. Haven’t done it yet, but seriously, I get exceptionally close sometimes.
I will most need help on investment and their priority.
Figuring out what to do with my three retirement accounts!
As a soon to be college grad, my biggest financial struggle is understanding retirement. I have no clue of how much I should be saving, the difference between the accounts, and how to invest the funds. Its all so foreign to me.
I keep thinking that debt or saving or spending are my main areas I could use help with, but I think I need to come to terms with the fact that the real issue right now is – MAKE MORE MONEY. I just need to bite the bullet and get at it.
Can’t wait to read this one too!!
Thanks for the chance to enter this cool giveaway! I am a freelancer and most need help right now with investment/retirement planning for the self-employed. Also… my future in-laws did not do well in the retirement planning dept, and would love some wisdom on how to cope with family debt issues.
Saving more, Saving more, Saving more.
Being an older, debt-free, self-employed entrepreneur with an unpredictable income stream, I need most help with wealth creation in a time frame considerably shorter than all you young whippersnappers have to accomplish this. “Rich Bitch” doesn’t quite fit me but “Stuck-up Buck” might! (Said with my Bogey look of half-lidded eyes and lopsided smile:)~
Haha… always have something interesting to say, good sir :)
putting money to use in ANYTHING.. i usually let it sit way too long for fear of not making the right decisions. oh, and i could learn more about taxes.
I need the most help with investing, and making it grow!
I’d say just more help in understanding different investments. Like how to choose the right options in 401K, etc. Doing good here at socking it away!
I will start my own business in a month, so I really need every information about finances.
I’m working very hard to stay on budget while buying a home, since my rental is about to cost me more than a mortgage would (even allowing for additional ownership expenses)! I just heard about this book, this week, and would LOVE the chance to read it!
I would like to learn how to manage my crazy high loan payments, my car payments, and everything else, and still manage to some how save for a future. Because looking at how it is now, I won’t be able to get married or start a family till I’m 50. lol
I need help learning how to invest my money wisely. I’m proud of the way I’ve cut down on my expenses (Challenge EVERYTHING!) and boosted my income (e’ryday I’m hustlin’), and now what will supercharge my financial health is learning how to make my dollars work for me. I have time on my side (I’m in my 20’s), so I have the luxury of being able to take on a little more risk. However, lack of knowledge is holding me back!
I love that this book puts a fun, edgy spin on a topic that most people yawn about (much like your blog). Really excited to read this! Thanks for the heads up!
By the way, here’s my sass face: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6yAoJ4TQ77dV0ZVRkROUWdXYXM/view?usp=sharing
yeah girl! work it!
I need to work on saving for retirement more and investing.
Mine would be paying off debt and staying debt. I have so many projets and wish I could do them all right away…
OK, I want that book, and I don’t want to pay for it, so here goes my sassiest:
I need help with the staggering level of investment ignorance I’ve maintained – the legacy of a society that’s all about making men rich and women hot. As Brigham Young said, ““You educate a man; you educate a man. You educate a woman; you educate a generation.” So educate me already! I’ve got a generation to teach.
Nice! I love it!
I love this and her. The one area I need the most help in would be investing to create a better future for myself once I am debt free. I have a good grasp on handling and ridding myself of debt but have minimal knowledge about what to do after that! (Or during to be honest)
Definitely, deciding how to invest after all debt is paid
Paying down debt and how to invest wisely. Thanks for this great give away!
With 7 kids, and being a stay at home (home schooling) mom, I haven’t had a job to contribute to Social Security (so I don’t get benefits when I’m old). Being divorced (he cheated), I only have spousal support as income, so I can’t put that into a 401K or IRA (it’s not “earned” according to the Gov’t, but I sOOOOOO think it was earned!)
So, my one financial issue…how on earth will I retire, and not need my 7 kids to care for me when I’m older? By the time the last one is out the door, I’ll be almost 60…not the best time to start college and a career…no one would hire me, even if I got my degree.
So, that’s the issue…what do housewives do for retirement savings…especially divorced ones (and there are many)?
Oh wowww…. I’m so sorry to hear! Hard spot to be in for sure, I hope you win it!!! (It’s random or else I would have picked you myself :)))
I need help in finding investment opportunities. My only debt is my mortgage and I am determined to being a rich bitch! Step 1 rang true to me because I always find myself smiling and nodding! Enough of that nonsense!
Awesome giveaway! I’d like to increase our savings rate with the goal of an earlier retirement.
Working on spending more efficiently so my husband and I can start crushing debt and work on becoming debt free.
I need help saving for long-term goals. I want to buy a house, but it seems like such a huge amount of money. Maybe this book could help! Hoping I will win, but if not I’ll look for it at my local library.
Sticking to a budget! I set aside an amount to spend for fun stuff and always end up overspending!
Definitely investing and motivating my partner to take control of his finances.
The area I need the most help with is investing. I do invest, and I have a basic understanding, but I know there’s so much more to learn.
I would say the area I need the most help with is investing. I find it very intimidating.
Find out how to better prepare for one-off “gremlin” expenses that creep out of nowhere. While I’ve got my budget down, it’s hard for me to add yet ANOTHER savings account/fund/pot for such instances when I’ve already spread my money out pretty wide.
I came here looking for sassy looks. Only half the criteria has been acknowledged with you’re followers J Money! :)
I know! What’s the deal? ;)
Gentlemen, can’t you see sassy looks in words. Come on now!
Love that the book challenges so many standards in personal finance. Mine would be sticking to the budget and paying down debt.
For me, it would be starting a business and being self-employed!
We’re on a pretty smooth track with budgeting and paying off debt. I’m a boglehead when it comes to investing; I’m a huge fan of the KISS method. While I’m interested in reading the whole book since I’ve only been out in the “real world” (and thus budgeting, saving, investing, paying off debt) for 1 year, I’m really interested in the last two chapters. I am working in a highly male-dominated career track and one day will own my own business. So my business will be my life. So I’d love to know what this Rich Bitch has to say!
Mine would be getting out of debt and staying that way!
Oh gosh, I could use help in the side hustle department for helping to pay off my student loans!
Definitely paying off my massive student loan debt.
Setting up and making passive income work for me! Hahaha. Investments are the thing I wanna know more about and how to make good choices!
Retirement! Maxing out retirement since I’m starting so late. I love reading anything that pushes women to be all they can be!
I totally love this book and especially I love the title! :)
Oh baby! Not only do I hope to remain one sexy mamma, but with Baby #1 on the way, lets just say a Sexy Baby Budget Plan is in order for this *hopefully* Rich Mamma Bitch ;)
Paying down student loan debt! UGH! I make minimum payments like a chump.
“What’s the one area in your finances you need the most help with?”
Oooh, I SO WANT THIS BOOK!
My “one area” is, DO I REALLY NEED A FINANCIAL PLANNER, OR NO ?!
This question vexes me, EVEN IN MY DREAMS!
signed, connieK., total Rich B#tch already but could always get better… WITH THE HELP OF THIS BOOK, NO DOUBT! In fact, I just want to carry it around, title out, everywhere I go. People will think I am cool :) :) :)
Area which i would like to have most help would be “PLANNING FOR SOMETHING BIG” like having kids , Buying a house , how do i plan to invest in a rental property etc. The book sounds interesting btw ;)
Br,
Gouthami.
LOVE IT!
Biggest challenge: making my other-half see the big picture and get on board with the program!
I need the most help investing in myself to improve my future. I’m scared of spending money and/or going into debt to get an advanced degree or turn my tiny business into something more serious.
I need to get my emergency fund plumped up. I’ve been slowly adding to it, but at the rate I’m saving it’ll be 2 or 3 years before I hit my target. I would love a guide to getting my shit together!
I have student debt – I haven’t paid off yet – It’s held me so long – It’s the same old song.
I don’t know which way to go – Or which way is which – please show me how – to become a RICH BITCH.
I want , I want- where can I get a copy of the book please………I need to be a rich bitch
I need help saving for retirement
Paying down debt and investing!
Priorities,budgets & paying down debt. Want to discover someone’s success to winning the Sprint & marathon.
Budgeting is always an issue for me!
*** GIVEAWAY NOW OVER ***
Thanks for participating everyone! What a bunch of beautiful future Rich Bitches! :)
The winners of our two copies here are…. bum bum bumm….
— Heather (commenter #23)
— Eliza Pelham Randall
Congrats ladies! You’ll be getting a note from me shortly…
I have heard so many good things about this book, I really need help! my finiaces are all over the place and i want to get my finiaces in place since i have a 1year old son, i fear how much we live paycheck to paycheck!!! please help!
I know the giveaway is already over (I’m sad I missed it!) but I’m going to comment anyway. I love the chapter titles! I’m putting this book on my list of books to buy – thanks for the insight.