Things to know about a credit card financial hardship program

Things to know about a credit card financial hardship program

Financial challenges can be difficult to overcome sometimes, especially when one has debts to pay off and other financial responsibilities. One such constraint may be a credit card bill that needs to be paid off by the due date to avoid penalties and maintain a credit score. Fortunately, many financial institutions offer credit card financial hardship programs to help in such situations. Being aware of such programs helps one seek much-needed support during testing times. What are credit card financial hardship programs? A credit card financial hardship program is an initiative to help cardholders needing temporary assistance, such as temporarily reducing interest rates, payment extensions, and late fee waivers. Sometimes, the individual’s due payment may be suspended under certain conditions. In general, if one’s credit scores and payment records have been good, there is a higher chance of being given the waivers and benefits applicable to such programs. Who can apply for a credit card financial hardship program, and how to qualify for it? A credit card financial hardship program is generally suitable for those currently going through a difficult financial situation and cannot afford to pay their impending credit card bill on time. Depending on the circumstances and the program’s policy offered by the specific financial institution, they may either avail of a deadline extension or even a waiver or suspension.
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6 common mistakes to avoid while waxing at home

6 common mistakes to avoid while waxing at home

At-home hair removal is the go-to solution for many who want to save the time and money it takes to go to a salon. But, certain mistakes in the process not only result in a waste of time, money, and energy but also cause discomfort. For instance, while waxing at home, one needs to be patient and avoid rushing the process to prevent issues like missing patches of hair, ingrown hair, rashes, redness, and pain.  1. Skipping the patch test When waxing at home, if one is trying a new wax or all-in-one waxing strip, they should do a patch test. This will help one determine if the product is safe for their skin. All one has to do is apply the wax or use the strip on a tiny patch of skin and wait for 48 hours to see if the skin reacts to the product. If not, one can go on and use the product on their body. This simple trial allows one to avoid full-fledged allergic reactions. 2. Not prepping the skin Just grabbing the wax or wax strip and getting started without any prep is a big mistake to avoid. Prepping the skin can minimize discomfort in the process.
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7 things to remember before adopting a child

7 things to remember before adopting a child

Adopting a child can be a highly rewarding experience. It is also a valuable opportunity to change lives. However, the process of adoption can be lengthy, requiring one to fulfill a range of legal and financial formalities. That’s why, knowing what to expect can prepare one for all the steps. So, before adopting a child, one must do their research and speak to others who have been through the process. 1. Adoption involves documentation It is easy for one to feel overwhelmed by the amount of paperwork that needs to be filled out. However, planning ahead and being ready with the right documents can streamline the process and also reduce the risk of error or missing information. One should be ready with copies of the marriage license, tax returns, birth certificates, and other essential documents. An adoption agency may also conduct background checks, such as examining one’s work history. The check may also include physical exams where the agency may ask for fingerprints, typically part of the adoption process. All of these steps help bring one closer to welcoming a child into their family. 2. Home visits will be conducted An in-person visit to the home of to-be parents, also called a home study, is a key part of the adoption process.
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10 things to know before buying an engagement ring

10 things to know before buying an engagement ring

Selecting an engagement ring can be  a  daunting  task , as there are many stones, cuts, shapes, and styles to choose from.  Even those who know little about jewelry can feel overwhelmed, but for  those who are unfamiliar with the process, it can be incredibly stressful. One needs to spend time researching, learning, and planning about engagement rings to find the right one, increasing the chances of receiving a resounding “Yes.” Develop the proposal  idea A proposal is a lifetime memory that one will cherish forever. So when one is ready to take the next step of proposing, there are a few things one has to consider. One can plan a proposal based on the partner’s likes and dislikes, such as a simple and intimate proposal, a grand or extravagant one, or a surprise proposal. It is best to  come up with  an original idea based on your shared experiences, or one can search the internet for fresh ideas. When one has decided on a good proposal, the next step is looking for the right ring. Keep it original and authentic Choosing a ring that is in trend may be a good idea, but selecting the one that reflects one’s personal story and the relationship would be more appropriate and a touching gesture as it would be personal, unique, and timeless.
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Tree pollen allergy – Symptoms, types, and management tips

Tree pollen allergy – Symptoms, types, and management tips

Tree pollen allergy is one of the most common types of allergies. Pollen is a fine powder-like substance produced by a tree. The wind picks it up and spreads it around, causing more of that tree’s species to grow in different places. As this happens, the pollen sometimes lands on one’s clothes and blows in through open windows. For those allergic to tree pollen, this can quickly trigger several allergy symptoms. Symptoms of tree pollen allergy In general, tree pollen causes hay fever or allergic rhinitis, which has several symptoms. Some common signs of tree pollen allergy include: Persistent sneezing This is one of the most common tree pollen allergy symptoms. One may sneeze as the body tries to remove the allergens from the nasal passages. The sneezing may persist for a while, making it hard to focus on the task one is doing. Runny or stuffy nose Nasal congestion causes stuffiness or a runny nose. This symptom usually occurs when the allergy triggers inflammation in the nasal passages. Itchiness in the eyes, nose, and throat When pollen triggers an allergic reaction, the immune system releases histamines as a self-defense mechanism against the foreign particles. This causes itching in the eyes, throat, and nose, which can cause discomfort.
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7 foods to avoid with multiple sclerosis

7 foods to avoid with multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is a neurological condition in which the communication between the brain and the rest of the body is severely disrupted. Some of its common symptoms include fatigue, mobility issues, vision problems, numbness and tingling, pain, muscle spasms, problems with learning, thinking, and planning, muscle weakness and stiffness, and various motor problems. Having certain foods can worsen the symptoms in people with multiple sclerosis, so it’s best to avoid such foods. French fries Fried foods occupy the bottom of the barrel when healthcare or nutrition experts talk about what people with multiple sclerosis can safely eat. Foods such as fried chicken, French fries, and red meat are highly processed and deep-fried. These foods contain large proportions of saturated and trans fats, both of which are bad for the body already, but they make things worse for people with multiple sclerosis. Studies have found that saturated fats in the body accelerate the progression of multiple sclerosis. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends people to reduce saturated fat consumption to less than 7% of their daily caloric intake. Further, trans fats, which are equally bad, need to be less than 1% of one’s total calorie consumption. Fruit juices Foods with added sugars and refined sugars are not too far behind in the list of foods to avoid when one has multiple sclerosis.
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9 brain-boosting foods that help fight dementia

9 brain-boosting foods that help fight dementia

Dementia can be a difficult condition to deal with. It not only impacts the individual’s memories but also changes one’s lifestyle. Dementia can lead to confusion, fear, and frustration in patients, and it can be challenging for them and their loved ones. However, some exercises and food habits can help lower the risk of dementia. Including some brain-boosting foods as a staple is the first step to living a life with healthy cognitive ability. Salmon Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines, and trout are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for maintaining brain health. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid, is a major structural component of the brain. Found in high levels of fatty fish, it is essential for maintaining healthy brain cells and promoting cognitive function. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), another omega-3 fatty acid, has anti-inflammatory effects that protect the brain from damage. To reap the brain-boosting benefits of omega-3s, include fatty fish by grilling or baking salmon. Adding sardines to salads or sandwiches or enjoying mackerel with whole-grain crackers is also an option. Blueberries Berries are highly recommended for heart and brain health. They are potent food that protects vital organs against potential damage.
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6 mistakes to avoid when renting an RV

6 mistakes to avoid when renting an RV

There is nothing quite like road trips, and traveling in an RV (recreational vehicle) can be a great way to explore new places in absolute comfort. It is the perfect home on wheels to enjoy national parks, coasts, or the countryside. But buying an RV is not the only way to have such experiences; one can always rent an RV. However, before one does that, they should do their research to avoid making costly mistakes.  1. Choosing the wrong RV To choose the right RV, one should begin by determining their requirements. For instance, one should know the kind of performance one expects their RV to deliver. But, instead of focusing on one or two factors, one should carefully review all the pros and cons of shortlisted models. For instance, choosing a bigger RV does not necessarily mean one would get more space and comfort. It can mean having to drive around a huge vehicle and spending time finding the right parking spot. So, one should consider all the available options and choose one that meets most requirements. 2. Ignoring the fine print One may rush the process of renting an RV, skipping reading the fine print in the rental contract.
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