Search found 461 matches

by bhwabeck3533
Wed Mar 27, 2024 4:09 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Used Vehicle Purchase: With a Twist
Replies: 7
Views: 771

Re: Used Vehicle Purchase: With a Twist

FrugalConservative wrote: Wed Mar 27, 2024 2:48 pm $12k for a truck with under 100K to tow 5K. Aint going to happen.

10 year old tacomas are twice that price with 150K miles.
OP back again. Let's scrap the pickup truck idea. Any recommendations for towable CARS in my price range?
by bhwabeck3533
Wed Mar 27, 2024 12:51 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Used Vehicle Purchase: With a Twist
Replies: 7
Views: 771

Used Vehicle Purchase: With a Twist

Here's the "twist". I live in Alabama. I have access to a summer home in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan (hence my avatar). I also own an RV with "towing capacity" listed at 5000 lbs. > The home in the UP has no vehicle "garaged" there > I'd like to buy a vehicle which I would leave in the UP and it will get occasional usage (it will be stowed in a garage) > I'd like the vehicle (a small pick-up truck is preferred) to be a "toad" -- vehicle can be rolled/towed on four wheels behind RV (no transmission issues) > Finally, I'm considering flying to Detroit and buying the vehicle in the metropolitan area (May timeframe) Hoping to keep the price around $12K and the mileage in the vicinity of 100K. Any reco...
by bhwabeck3533
Fri Mar 15, 2024 7:09 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: HSA Guidance (BenefitWallet Resignation)
Replies: 2
Views: 279

HSA Guidance (BenefitWallet Resignation)

I received a notification a couple weeks ago of an "important change to my Health Savings Account (HSA)." The Custodian is resigning, and my account will be transferred to HealthEquity. A little research indicates: > The custodian of the BenefitWallet HSA is The Bank of New York Mellon (BNY Mellon). Deposits to the HSA checking account are FDIC insured up to the FDIC coverage limit. > HealthEquity is an Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) authorized, non-bank trustee (“NBT”) operating as the custodian of health savings accounts (“HSAs”). A phone call to each institution has left me frustrated and confused, I am not impressed with either of these HSA providers. I'm pretty sure I can move my balance to any HSA provider, and am asking f...
by bhwabeck3533
Fri Mar 15, 2024 6:46 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Applying for loans in retirement...
Replies: 25
Views: 2789

Re: Applying for loans in retirement...

Lemonaid56 wrote: Wed Mar 13, 2024 5:13 pm How do you handle loans when you aren't collecting SS or a pension yet and are living on what you've saved?
I "trained" loan underwriters at two banks on the process to calculate the amount of monthly mortgage payment supported by my investment balance. I had no regular income, just savings to fund routine expenses. It takes patience (which I have precious little of) and persistence -- which my cup runneth over. It can be done.
by bhwabeck3533
Tue Mar 12, 2024 7:12 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: 3-Way (3-pole?) Dimmer Switch Install
Replies: 11
Views: 1394

Re: 3-Way (3-pole?) Dimmer Switch Install

dcdowden wrote: Mon Mar 11, 2024 3:22 pm Just had same switch installed in a gang box with no problems.
Lutron Ariadni/Toggler LED+ Dimmer | 150-Watt, Single-Pole/3-Way | AYCL-153P-WH | White
OP here. Lutron switch arrived from Amazon yesterday ($22). Installed in less than five minutes. Perfect fit and operates as expected. BEWARE: Lutron sells a similar dimmer switch for $67 (dimensions 1.62 x 3.92 x 5.82 inches) which I could have purchased locally, however it is too "wide" for a ganged-box installation.
by bhwabeck3533
Sat Mar 09, 2024 2:58 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: 3-Way (3-pole?) Dimmer Switch Install
Replies: 11
Views: 1394

3-Way (3-pole?) Dimmer Switch Install

YES, I have Googled and YouTubed the internet -- and I still need help from my fellow DIYers. I have two separate switches to turn off/on my dining room chandelier. One switch is "ganged" with two other light switches (three-switch box and wall plate), the other is "ganged" with a three more switches (four-switch box and wall plate). I'd like to replace one of two dining room light switches with a dimmer switch. I have looked at the Lutron Ariadni/Toggler LED+ Dimmer (150-Watt, Single-Pole/3-Way). I have two concerns with this switch: 1. Research indicates I should install a 3-pole/3-way dimmer (not a "single-pole"). 2. The size of the switch appears too large (width) to fit in the "ganged" switch box...
by bhwabeck3533
Tue Feb 06, 2024 7:10 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: What is your HSA strategy?
Replies: 52
Views: 6798

Re: What is your HSA strategy?

Tyrael314 wrote: Mon Feb 05, 2024 7:05 pm .... We were planning on cash flowing medical expenses and just continuing to fund and invest via the HSA into retirement. From what I have heard/read you can save receipt/bills for medical expenses over the years and reimburse yourself later down the line.
I posted an HSA related question recently and one responder pointed out that HSA holders and Medicare recipients "don't play well together". Specifically, once you're on Medicare you can't contribute to your HSA.
by bhwabeck3533
Tue Jan 30, 2024 10:52 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: AC Soft Starter
Replies: 9
Views: 1277

Re: AC Soft Starter

RetiredAL wrote: Mon Jan 29, 2024 2:55 pm
bhwabeck3533 wrote: Mon Jan 29, 2024 8:02 am My neighbor sent this link to me. Anyone have experience to share with an "Air Conditioner Soft Starter"?

https://youtu.be/MDp1g8r8IVs?feature=shared
What are you trying to accomplish?
My objective when posting above was:
1. Share findings with my neighbor on the A/C device he is considering to install.
2. Assess whether the device has any merit for my home too.
by bhwabeck3533
Mon Jan 29, 2024 8:28 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: AC Soft Starter
Replies: 9
Views: 1277

Re: AC Soft Starter

terran wrote: Mon Jan 29, 2024 8:21 am I've looked into this before because, apparently, they can let a larger portable generator run your AC/heat pump. I haven't gone beyond that, but there are some good threads on this forum if you search "soft start" in the search box in the upper right hand corner.
Thanks, I found this thread which is generally favorable to the "AC Soft Starter" device....viewtopic.php?p=6972418&hilit=soft+star ... 2#p6972418
by bhwabeck3533
Mon Jan 29, 2024 8:02 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: AC Soft Starter
Replies: 9
Views: 1277

AC Soft Starter

My neighbor sent this link to me. Anyone have experience to share with an "Air Conditioner Soft Starter"?

https://youtu.be/MDp1g8r8IVs?feature=shared
by bhwabeck3533
Sat Jan 27, 2024 5:00 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: State of Louisiana: Income Tax Return
Replies: 2
Views: 436

State of Louisiana: Income Tax Return

I have assisted my aunt with preparing her State and Federal tax returns the last couple of years. I use TaxSlayer and have been pretty confident that the software works well for state returns I am less familiar with. However, there have been a few "nuances" to filing Alabama returns (where I reside) with TaxSlayer this year that have me wondering if I need to consider anything "new and different" when using TaxSlayer for her 2023 Louisiana return.

Please advise if you are a Louisianan using TaxSlayer this year.
by bhwabeck3533
Sat Jan 27, 2024 10:29 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: An unintended visit from "Aunt IRMAA"?
Replies: 41
Views: 7275

Re: An unintended visit from "Aunt IRMAA"?

Hi friends, I think we may have unintentionally exceeded our goals for 2023 mAGI as shown below :oops: (did not want to exceed standard IRMAA limits). Can I put money into my tIRA to reduce my mAGI at this point in time ? If not is there anything else I can do ? I was introduced to Aunt IRMAA in Dec 2023 when I received my Jan 2024 Medicare statement. My monthly premium had increased by almost $100. I did some research and discovered our additional income in 2022 (our RV purchase just got more expensive :D ) and triggered IRMAA for me. And guess what, the Lexus we bought in 2023 is resulting in a potential additional year of IRMAA premiums if threshold is $210,000 (our current AGI is $210,167). Another option to tIRA contribution might be ...
by bhwabeck3533
Sat Jan 27, 2024 9:35 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: An unintended visit from "Aunt IRMAA"?
Replies: 41
Views: 7275

Re: An unintended visit from "Aunt IRMAA"?

Yes. And one key thing to keep in mind is that while the just released 12/2023 CPI-U of 306.746 was down about 0.1% from November's 307.051, those are unadjusted and all the reports last week had the December number being a seasonally adjusted increase of 0.3% (3.6% annual). Looking at past years, the January number (to be released 2/13) tends to be a very large increase so I wouldn't panic yet. I've waded through this thread a few times looking for a definitive date when the 2023 MFJ MAGI threshold (which determines 2025 IRMAA) will be published. Please advise. Our 2023 MAGI is currently projected to be $209,500. We can reduce this number by contributing to my wife's HSA. I'm holding off on filing our 2023 tax return to avoid the extra Me...
by bhwabeck3533
Wed Jan 17, 2024 12:13 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Lenovo PC Scan Results & Fixe$
Replies: 17
Views: 1771

Re: Lenovo PC Scan Results & Fixe$

> Use Windows Disk Cleanup tool to free up space OP here. Thanks for all the feedback and advice. I DID NOT invest in Lenovo's $29.99 offer. I did run the "Windows Disk Cleanup". And, just ran Microsoft Defender and got an "All Clear". Sounds good, glad you didn't get scammed. Curious though - why did you run the scan ? Were you just curious how the computer is doing or did you have actual problems? To clarify and attempt to answer your questions above: > The OEM/Lenovo "scan" runs automatically on some pre-determined frequency. > I purposefully ran the Windows Disk Cleanup "scan" (as suggested in response to my OP). > The Microsoft Defender "scan" also is performed automatically based on s...
by bhwabeck3533
Wed Jan 17, 2024 7:00 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Lenovo PC Scan Results & Fixe$
Replies: 17
Views: 1771

Re: Lenovo PC Scan Results & Fixe$

LookinAround wrote: Tue Jan 16, 2024 5:34 am
> Use Windows Disk Cleanup tool to free up space
OP here. Thanks for all the feedback and advice. I DID NOT invest in Lenovo's $29.99 offer.

I did run the "Windows Disk Cleanup". And, just ran Microsoft Defender and got an "All Clear".
by bhwabeck3533
Sun Jan 14, 2024 9:39 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Lenovo PC Scan Results & Fixe$
Replies: 17
Views: 1771

Lenovo PC Scan Results & Fixe$

I have a five-year old and out-of-warranty Lenovo laptop. The scan results from their software discovered 32 issues (21 PC Performance, 9 Internet Performance, 2 Security & Malware).

For $29.99, I can purchase a plan to "fix" these issues and maintain my PC for another year. Is it worth it? Has anyone used this feature with Lenovo?
by bhwabeck3533
Sat Jan 13, 2024 6:14 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: An unintended visit from "Aunt IRMAA"?
Replies: 41
Views: 7275

Re: An unintended visit from "Aunt IRMAA"?

Hi friends, I think we may have unintentionally exceeded our goals for 2023 mAGI as shown below :oops: (did not want to exceed standard IRMAA limits). Can I put money into my tIRA to reduce my mAGI at this point in time ? If not is there anything else I can do ? I was introduced to Aunt IRMAA in Dec 2023 when I received my Jan 2024 Medicare statement. My monthly premium had increased by almost $100. I did some research and discovered our additional income in 2022 (our RV purchase just got more expensive :D ) and triggered IRMAA for me. And guess what, the Lexus we bought in 2023 is resulting in a potential additional year of IRMAA premiums if threshold is $210,000 (our current AGI is $210,167). Another option to tIRA contribution might be ...
by bhwabeck3533
Fri Jan 12, 2024 7:13 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: An unintended visit from "Aunt IRMAA"?
Replies: 41
Views: 7275

Re: An unintended visit from "Aunt IRMAA"?

Hi friends, I think we may have unintentionally exceeded our goals for 2023 mAGI as shown below :oops: (did not want to exceed standard IRMAA limits). Can I put money into my tIRA to reduce my mAGI at this point in time ? If not is there anything else I can do ? I was introduced to Aunt IRMAA in Dec 2023 when I received my Jan 2024 Medicare statement. My monthly premium had increased by almost $100. I did some research and discovered our additional income in 2022 (our RV purchase just got more expensive :D ) and triggered IRMAA for me. And guess what, the Lexus we bought in 2023 is resulting in a potential additional year of IRMAA premiums if threshold is $210,000 (our current AGI is $210,167). Another option to tIRA contribution might be ...
by bhwabeck3533
Sat Jan 06, 2024 6:04 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Verizon settlement re administrative charges
Replies: 18
Views: 3720

Re: Verizon settlement re administrative charges

boomer_techie wrote: Fri Jan 05, 2024 5:04 pm Just received an email about some sort of settlement in regards to monthly administrative charges on the bills of post-paid customers. It looks very real, but has no web links back to verizon.com. It requires clicking a link and filing a claim by April 15th. Real? Scam? Fishing?
https://www.nytimes.com/2024/01/04/us/v ... Position=1
by bhwabeck3533
Fri Jan 05, 2024 6:55 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Board Games for Two in 2024
Replies: 53
Views: 7083

Re: Board Games for Two in 2024

WhyNotUs wrote: Thu Jan 04, 2024 2:38 pm
FWIW, there are lots of versions of cribbage and it can be fun to try different variations.
Tell me more. I've been playing cribbage for sixty years, and typically play a two-person game. We play three and four (partners) as well. What other "versions" and "variations" of cribbage are there?
by bhwabeck3533
Thu Dec 28, 2023 7:03 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: MIL's Investments: Deadline Tomorrow?
Replies: 6
Views: 566

MIL's Investments: Deadline Tomorrow?

Arrived yesterday at my in-laws for post-Christmas visit. My MIL does not discuss finances often (my FIL does), so surprised when she asked me to help her with end-of-year tax implications resulting from planned sale of equities. Scenario, as I currently understand from initial comments: > She has about $500K in individual stocks (after tax brokerage account) > She is concerned about a major market downturn in 2024 > She wants to sell the stocks and invest more conservatively > She/they do not need income from this transaction, her objective is to maintain wealth to pass along to heirs > Her current concern is minimizing taxes from capital gains (sounds like she has 30+ years with current investments) > I'm estimating their MFJ MAGI is appr...
by bhwabeck3533
Sun Dec 24, 2023 9:45 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Hut to Hut Backpacking/Hiking - Italy Alps Dolomites
Replies: 16
Views: 2457

Re: Hut to Hut Backpacking/Hiking - Italy Alps Dolomites

KBR wrote: Sun Dec 24, 2023 9:27 am Thank you! Ideally I’m looking to hire a company and guide to take care of everything and just put a backpack on and go… any suggestions?
We have traveled with both of the following, can't go wrong with either one (two price points, both deliver the value):

https://www.utracks.com/Italy/Guided-Wa ... uided-Walk
https://www.backroads.com/trips/MTDI/do ... nture-tour
by bhwabeck3533
Sun Dec 24, 2023 7:17 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Hut to Hut Backpacking/Hiking - Italy Alps Dolomites
Replies: 16
Views: 2457

Re: Hut to Hut Backpacking/Hiking - Italy Alps Dolomites

KBR wrote: Sat Dec 23, 2023 8:46 pm
I'm looking at doing a hut to hut backpacking trip with my daughter to the Dolomites.
We met a couple from Australia while we were trekking from our base camp https://www.hoteldigon.com/en/ in Ortisei (Val Gardena). They did the hut-to-hut hikes after leaving Ortisei.

I would suggest the approach we chose as an alternative to hut-to-hut. We made some great hikes each day from the Hotel, and such great accommodations for meals and sleep between activities.
by bhwabeck3533
Thu Dec 21, 2023 9:29 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Chef's Table Dining: Where Available?
Replies: 4
Views: 727

Chef's Table Dining: Where Available?

I'm reflecting on one of the most wonderful and special couple's celebrations ever -- my wife and I had a fantastic dinner in the kitchen of a large restaurant in Raleigh, NC. A similar experience is not available where we currently live -- and we are willing to travel to eat in such a venue again.

Please send ideas and/or recommendations.
by bhwabeck3533
Tue Dec 19, 2023 7:31 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Odd Meeting Today with IRS Re my 2022 Return
Replies: 92
Views: 12750

Re: Odd Meeting Today with IRS Re my 2022 Return

I got a letter 10 days ago requesting that I make an appointment with the local IRS office to discuss my 2022 return. I was told that my return was being reviewed by others and they would contact me if they needed to meet or for me to provide more documentation. Has anyone else had this kind of experience with the IRS? I did NOT have this kind of experience with the IRS. However, I did recently post about an experience my 97-year old mother had with the IRS (https://www.bogleheads.org/forum/viewtopic.php?t=418474). I would definitely create an account on the IRS.gov website. The nifty learning I made was the ability to see transcripts of recent tax returns, which includes a "per computer" value below the value submitted by the ta...
by bhwabeck3533
Mon Dec 11, 2023 10:57 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: IRS Notification - How About You?
Replies: 12
Views: 2762

Re: IRS Notification - How About You?

gavinsiu wrote: Mon Dec 11, 2023 7:50 am
bhwabeck3533 wrote: Mon Dec 11, 2023 6:40 am Yes, there is a number in the upper right corner of the letter my Mom received from the IRS. The IRS refers to this identifier as the "Customer File Number" (The 10-digit Customer File Number serves as an alternative tracking number to match the transcript to the taxpayer ....).
I am looking at an old IRS letter, on the letter's upper right is a notice field with CP22A. CP22A indicates that IRS believe you owe money, does your letter not have this type of number?
Her code is 2645C. Per Google search, "Classified as an inquiry letter, and sometimes referred to as an interim letter, it is simply a notification to a taxpayer that the IRS has received something."
by bhwabeck3533
Mon Dec 11, 2023 6:40 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: IRS Notification - How About You?
Replies: 12
Views: 2762

Re: IRS Notification - How About You?

gavinsiu wrote: Sun Dec 10, 2023 1:36 pm My bad I was running around today and should have read more carefully. Is there a number on upper right corner?
Yes, there is a number in the upper right corner of the letter my Mom received from the IRS. The IRS refers to this identifier as the "Customer File Number" (The 10-digit Customer File Number serves as an alternative tracking number to match the transcript to the taxpayer ....).
by bhwabeck3533
Sun Dec 10, 2023 11:45 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: IRS Notification - How About You?
Replies: 12
Views: 2762

Re: IRS Notification - How About You?

PaunchyPirate wrote: Sun Dec 10, 2023 11:30 am
gavinsiu wrote: Sun Dec 10, 2023 11:09 am If you haven’t done so help your mom set up an online account. You should be able to get a status of the processing. I would call them since you would be put on hold for hours.
The OP clearly indicates they have already set up the online account and reviewed it in their first post.
Thank you!
by bhwabeck3533
Sun Dec 10, 2023 5:55 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: IRS Notification - How About You?
Replies: 12
Views: 2762

IRS Notification - How About You?

My 97 year-old Mom received a letter from the IRS a few days ago. It is rather benign, and begins with "Thank you for your inquiry of Sep 18, 2023. We're working on your account. However, we need an additional 60 days to send you a complete response on what action we are taking on your account." Since, (1) the notice appears to be very legitimate (2) I prepare and file my Mom's taxes and (3) neither she nor I have "made an inquiry", I pressed on. In her physical presence, we successfully executed the IRS-enabled process using ID.me to establish an account for Mom with the IRS. After logging on to her account, verifying there was no evidence documenting an "inquiry", and reviewing the transcripts of previous tax...
by bhwabeck3533
Fri Dec 08, 2023 8:33 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Pirate Ship - Save Up to 89%
Replies: 32
Views: 6518

Re: Pirate Ship - Save Up to 89%

ClevrChico wrote: Fri Dec 08, 2023 9:27 am I love it, but in some situations, Ebay shipping is cheaper.
I'm still confused on the eBay shipping option. Pirate Ship = Ebay for functionality? Others have responded Ebay is an option only if you are selling a product on Ebay's site.
by bhwabeck3533
Fri Dec 08, 2023 5:58 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Plan my retirement travel for me!
Replies: 65
Views: 10995

Re: Plan my retirement travel for me!

JBTX wrote: Thu Dec 07, 2023 11:20 pm I’m in pretty good physical shape and could walk or hike decent distances, but I’m not really a camper type and not likely to go on wilderness hikes on my own. I don’t have to stay in high end places but would rather avoid hostels, especially at my age.

Given those parameters, what would you recommend over the next several years ?
My wife and I have done two "legs" of the Camino de Santiago (Spain and France). We also enjoyed the hiking in the Dolomites (Italy). All three of these meet your requirements, I believe you would enjoy all of them. Feel free to PM me for specifics.
by bhwabeck3533
Fri Dec 08, 2023 5:46 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Pirate Ship - Save Up to 89%
Replies: 32
Views: 6518

Re: Pirate Ship - Save Up to 89%

OP again. I shipped five Christmas packages via Pirate Ship two days ago, one via UPS and the other four USPS. Anecdotally, I think I saved about 40% via use of the Pirate Ship enabled process. I have confirmed that all five packages are in-transit. I was pleased with everything except the label that printed with a "SurePost" designation. The label had two addresses, a post office and the recipients' address. I canceled/refunded that label, restarted the process -- this time selecting the "ground" option to eliminate the post office address on the label. I have since looked up what SurePost means: "UPS SurePost® is an economy service for your non-urgent, business to consumer needs of low value. UPS makes the shipmen...
by bhwabeck3533
Mon Dec 04, 2023 5:15 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Pirate Ship - Save Up to 89%
Replies: 32
Views: 6518

Re: Pirate Ship - Save Up to 89%

runner3081 wrote: Mon Dec 04, 2023 5:04 pm
It is all about their Cubic pricing for USPS. Cheaper than eBay.

Unfortunately, their UPS pricing is now more expensive than eBay.
So, am I now being informed there is at least a 4th shipping alternative to USPS, UPS, Pirate Ship -- and it is ... eBay?
by bhwabeck3533
Mon Dec 04, 2023 4:48 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Pirate Ship - Save Up to 89%
Replies: 32
Views: 6518

Pirate Ship - Save Up to 89%

Here's the link: https://www.pirateship.com/

Do you use this shipping tool? My neighbor does, she told my wife to look into it....well?? Tell me all about it.
by bhwabeck3533
Thu Nov 30, 2023 8:19 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Spousal Benefit: Social Security
Replies: 16
Views: 1683

Re: [Apologies First] Social Security < 40 Credits

Silk McCue wrote: Thu Nov 30, 2023 8:12 am You asked this same question just recently and received feedback including a suggestion a way to get 2 more credits.

viewtopic.php?p=7305436&hilit=Social#p7305436

Cheers
I really did try to find this post. Thank you.

Administrator, please lock the thread. :D
by bhwabeck3533
Thu Nov 30, 2023 8:05 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Spousal Benefit: Social Security
Replies: 16
Views: 1683

Re: [Apologies First] Social Security < 40 Credits

livesoft wrote: Thu Nov 30, 2023 8:00 am Did her older sister remarry?
Her 66 year old older sister is married to her first husband (who is 68-ish years old, retired, and yes -- still living).
by bhwabeck3533
Thu Nov 30, 2023 7:49 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Spousal Benefit: Social Security
Replies: 16
Views: 1683

[Apologies First] Social Security < 40 Credits

[Merge here - mod mkc]

* Apology, I searched the forum for the answer to my question -- sorry if it's here and I could not find it.

My spouse is sixty years old, she has 38 of the 40 required work credits to qualify for a Social Security benefit. Her account on the SSA.gov website indicates she will not receive a benefit. She has no desire to acquire the two additional credits needed to qualify for the benefit.

That said:
1. Her older sister was in the same scenario (< 40 work credits) and received a benefit at age 62.
2. My DW was married previously (for more than 10 years).

Will/can she receive social security benefits "on her own" and/or via her ex-husband's earnings?
by bhwabeck3533
Tue Nov 14, 2023 7:35 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Amazon Returns: Default to Staples not UPS?
Replies: 13
Views: 1651

Re: Amazon Returns: Default to Staples not UPS?

student wrote: Tue Nov 14, 2023 7:19 am I seldom return things. I think I have to do this twice. The first time was UPS. The second time it was default to Kohl's with UPS as an option for $1. Do you regularly return items? Is there a reason that you do not want Staples. My experience is that there is no difference between returning at Kohl's and UPS.
Yes, nearest Staples is about ten miles away. UPS is about a mile away. I'll pay more attention next time I return through Amazon.
by bhwabeck3533
Tue Nov 14, 2023 6:49 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Amazon Returns: Default to Staples not UPS?
Replies: 13
Views: 1651

Amazon Returns: Default to Staples not UPS?

Is there a "setting" in Amazon which can be selected for the preferred drop-off location? For the second time in the last few weeks I attempted to drop off an Amazon purchase (return) at UPS only to find out the bar code was for drop-off at Staples. The first time the UPS employee assisted in navigating a process to change the location to UPS (using my smart phone). This time I came home to my laptop, canceled the return and started the return over and found the UPS option. Very frustrating.
by bhwabeck3533
Fri Nov 10, 2023 6:49 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Inflation Indices....??
Replies: 7
Views: 951

Inflation Indices....??

Core Inflation. CPI. PCE.

I have a spreadsheet which tracks annual (past) and predicts future inflation (so I thought). I was not aware there were a variety of indices which measure inflation. Is one "better" than another through the lens of a retiree who is attempting to understand how inflation will impact my financial future?
by bhwabeck3533
Mon Oct 30, 2023 1:37 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Replacing RV "Stereo" System
Replies: 2
Views: 493

Re: Replacing RV "Stereo" System

Update from OP....

My RV folks recommended Crutchfield. After a successful chat session, I ordered a JVC KW-V660BT.
by bhwabeck3533
Mon Oct 30, 2023 12:07 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Replacing RV "Stereo" System
Replies: 2
Views: 493

Replacing RV "Stereo" System

I use the term "stereo" as a generic term, as my minimal need isn't a sound/audio system. The chariot for my 2017 Tiffin Wayfarer coach is a 2016 Mercedes 3500 Sprinter chassis. I believe the stock unit delivered with the vehicle (we bought the RV used) was the Kenwood DDX394 which "blacked out" on me about a week ago. I have DIYed the repair options well beyond the typical approaches. I bought a used look-alike Kenwood unit on eBay, installed it, and it exhibited the exact same symptoms as the one I took out. The rest of the story. A previous owner installed a Jensen system which is superior to the in-dash Kenwood I've been discussing. The Jensen is mounted in the coach, not the dash. I need a dash unit which has a conn...
by bhwabeck3533
Mon Oct 30, 2023 7:13 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Books that Really Changed/Helped You/Your Perspective and Why?
Replies: 75
Views: 10877

Re: Books that Really Changed/Helped You/Your Perspective and Why?

"The Little Book of Common Sense Investing: The Only Way to Guarantee Your Fair Share of Stock Market Returns" by John C. Bogle.

Read it in 2015 a year after I retired. I immediately moved all my investments from my Edward Jones account and followed the Vanguard recommended portfolio formula of Equity and Bond Index Funds. Hands off from then on.

Not to much later I discovered this website, which I consult on a daily basis and contribute to with some regularity.
by bhwabeck3533
Mon Oct 23, 2023 4:38 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Kenwood System: Black Screen/Reboot?
Replies: 1
Views: 263

Kenwood System: Black Screen/Reboot?

On our way home from a weekend of camping in our 2017 Tiffin Wayfarer, I had to slam on the brakes to prevent a rear end collision. The result, our Kenwood system (Radio - DVD -Telephone - Camera) went dead. I've watched multiple YouTube videos with instructions to reset and reboot the unit. I tried the simple reset fix, push and hold the red triangle. Did not get my Kenwood working.

There is power to the unit. Depressing the Volume Button + Eject Button will illuminate the "HOME" + "CAM" + "TEL" buttons.

Send any and all ideas and recommendations with solutions to this problem if you have experience.
by bhwabeck3533
Mon Oct 23, 2023 6:56 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Memory Cell Phone: Recommendations
Replies: 1
Views: 361

Memory Cell Phone: Recommendations

My 88 year-old FIL is in early stages of memory loss. We'd like him to have a "life line" as he is still quite active. My SIL is suggesting this RAZ Phone (https://www.razmobility.com/product/memory-cellphone/). Anyone with first-hand knowledge on this device and/or comparable "Memory Cell Phones" please reply.

A couple complications (1) Little to no cell phone signal in their area of northeast Louisiana (2) FIL has a very limited technical skills.
by bhwabeck3533
Fri Oct 06, 2023 6:35 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Walking vacation in UK
Replies: 6
Views: 1064

Re: Walking vacation in UK

goshenBogle wrote: Thu Oct 05, 2023 1:46 pm We are looking into a walking vacation in the UK. That is, the travel company handles transfering our luggage to the next destination hotel and we carry just enough stuff for the day. We want to do this as part of a small group (say 12 or less) of travellers.

Does anyone have a recommendation for a travel company tyhat arranges this type of vacation?
My wife and I used UTracks for a self-guided adventure in May -- we walked the French Camino for four days. UTracks delivers against their promise.
(https://www.utracks.com/Destinations/United-Kingdom)
by bhwabeck3533
Tue Oct 03, 2023 6:49 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What frugal thing did you do today?
Replies: 4535
Views: 625910

Re: What frugal thing did you do today?

Since frugality seems to be a way of life, what did you do today that was frugal? As for me, worked out at the gym, but shaved and took an extra long shower there to save on my utilities. :D I've scrolled by this thread for a long time, and finally have something to add. It's not "a frugal thing I did today", it's a frugal thing my wife and I did over the last three days. We hate to work in the yard, and actually pay a service to edge and mow a tiny lawn. Yet, my wife got tired of looking at a weed-filled flower bed adjoining our front porch. We reduced the size of the bed by 50%, transplanted the gardenias and monkey-grass to densify the smaller bed. We bought and laid sod in the cleaned out area. It looks great, we bonded over ...
by bhwabeck3533
Fri Sep 29, 2023 2:02 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Geeks Only: Remote Temp Monitoring
Replies: 14
Views: 2010

Re: Geeks Only: Remote Temp Monitoring

pizzy wrote: Fri Sep 29, 2023 6:44 am Can you share why internet can't/won't be available?
Internet is available, when I am on the property with my cell phone. Using my "Mobile Hotspot" on Verizon's unlimited data plan I have all the same connectivity features I can access with my Mediacom hardware/plan at my primary residence. I leave my Upper Michigan cottage and the internet leaves with me.

I'm am a tried-and-true Boglehead (and an Engineer by education) -- always looking for a low-cost solution which satisfies my basic requirements.
by bhwabeck3533
Fri Sep 29, 2023 6:30 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Geeks Only: Remote Temp Monitoring
Replies: 14
Views: 2010

Re: Geeks Only: Remote Temp Monitoring

sunsetting101 wrote: Fri Sep 29, 2023 3:45 am Not a phone app access type but this item https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09C21DPVY?re ... tails&th=1 has been useful with multiple sensors.

You can probably position a security cam to view the screen if you want access on your phone.
The obvious follow-up question (from OP), since this an interesting possible solution -- how does the security camera communicate with a smart phone? Remember, no Wi-Fi where the camera/temp sensors are located.
by bhwabeck3533
Thu Sep 28, 2023 11:26 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Geeks Only: Remote Temp Monitoring
Replies: 14
Views: 2010

Geeks Only: Remote Temp Monitoring

I'm looking for a non-internet (WiFi) solution to remotely monitor the indoor temperature at a second home in Michigan. I'm hoping there is a cellular-based solution which would allow me to communicate with the device from afar (using an app on my cell phone).

Anyone with a successfully practiced option for me, please bring it on.