I'm not so sure if the man takes care of the finances in all households. I have friends who are married, and the wife (who is also a stay-at-home mom) controls the purse strings. My friend likes it because it means he NEVER has to open a bill and his credit rating is oodles better because the bills are paid on time. Additionally, my aunt (also a stay-at-home mom) controls the purse strings and puts my uncle on an allowance. If she didn't do so, all his money would go to golf and things he doesn't need.
Veronica
of NY
@
Jul 13, 2008 12:12:10 PM
Are we different
As a man, I am glad to see that you wrote that women face different financial issues than men. Since men are usually the breadwinner, it's up to the women to make sure that she and her children are taken care of in case of divorce or death. In many households, there is a division of labor, with the man taking care of the finances. The wife, then, stays ignorant, usually by choice. Imagine her surprise when the unthinkable happens and the wife has to fend for herself.
JimmyDaGeek
of MD
@
Jul 12, 2008 19:31:39 PM
I think people, particularly people whose parents were not comfortable with 401Ks, need a special kind of tailored advice.
Also, I feel that sometimes women do need separate financial advice. Particularly 20-something women who might be carrying a lot of educational debt but also like to entertain the notion that someday they might get married and want children.
Finally, since women are more than likely to outlive their male partners by 5 years or so AND generally make less money throughout their lives, tailored advice may not be a bad thing. Women more often than men take time off of work to either care for children or their parents at the other end.
Kimberly Palmer, senior editor for U.S. News & World Report, writes about how to save money, avoid scams, manage debt, and be a savvy shopper. Send your personal finance questions to her for expert money advice.
Veronica of NY @ Jul 13, 2008 12:12:10 PM
JimmyDaGeek of MD @ Jul 12, 2008 19:31:39 PM
Veronica of NY @ Jul 11, 2008 16:19:08 PM
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