dfawaz,
The problem is, we all tried to get out of debt with help, and that HELP cost me about 6000.00 in interest and a crappy credit history now. I was current on the 5 cards I gave to Hess Kennedy,
which kills me because now I've got a truly crappy credit rating, although one of the credit report agencies keeps telling me I'm dead. I said, "if that's so, then I can stop paying all my bills, correct?" I did luck out with the HSBC and CapitalOne forgiveness, but will still have to claim the $7,000 + forgiven as income next year, (which, by the way, was basically all the interest accrued sitting with HK). Small price to pay, I guess. Hopefully, we will all see some money back from Hess Kennedy, but I'm not holding my breath. I don't want a bail out either, but we definitely showed good faith by taking over when HK started screwing us around. I know about financial hardship, when it comes to buying food or putting gas in the car, and I work full time! justwhen I see a light atthe end of the tunnel, something else pops up to take that little bit of extra money. I don't know about you, but I don't see how there is any way for me to retire in 15 years, being single and 1 income with no savings. I'd have to rely on SS, if there is any left at that point! boy, I'm rambling.