Latest news with #spouses
Yahoo
11 hours ago
- General
- Yahoo
15 Ways Marriage Brings Out The Worst In Some Husbands
Marriage is often viewed as a union filled with joy and companionship. However, in some cases, it can bring out the less desirable traits in husbands, which can lead to challenging dynamics. This isn't a blanket statement about all marriages or husbands, but it's important to recognize the patterns that can emerge. Understanding these tendencies can help address them effectively and maintain a healthy relationship. Here are 15 ways marriage might bring out the worst in some husbands. 1. They Get Too Comfortable And Take You For Granted Once the honeymoon phase is over, there might be a tendency for your husband to take you for granted. This can manifest in the little things, like no longer saying "thank you" for dinner or not noticing when you go out of your way to do something nice. According to psychologist John Gottman, recognizing and appreciating everyday moments can make a significant impact on a marriage's health. When these small acknowledgments vanish, resentment can start to build. This feeling of being overlooked can be frustrating and lead to bigger issues down the road. When someone feels unappreciated, it can lead to emotional distance. If your efforts are continuously ignored, you may begin to feel less inclined to put in the effort. It's crucial for both partners to communicate openly about feeling appreciated in their roles. Acknowledging each other's efforts helps nurture the bond and keeps the relationship balanced. If the appreciation seems one-sided, it can create an unhealthy dynamic. 2. They Struggle To Open Up Many people struggle with expressing their emotions, and some husbands may find it particularly challenging to open up. This tendency can become more pronounced after marriage. Maintaining an emotionally intimate relationship can be daunting, requiring vulnerability. Instead of sharing thoughts and feelings, some husbands may retreat, leading to a communication gap. This emotional distance can make their partners feel isolated. When emotional barriers are erected, it can create a wall between you and your partner. A husband's reluctance to open up can often be mistaken for disinterest or apathy. It's essential to foster a safe space where both partners feel comfortable sharing their emotions without judgment. The lack of emotional availability can hinder conflict resolution and stifle the growth of the relationship. Encouraging open dialogue can help break down these barriers and build a more resilient connection. 3. They Allow The Wife To Handle All Responsibilities Marriage often comes with a host of shared responsibilities, ranging from housework to financial obligations. Sometimes, husbands can struggle to adjust to these shared duties, inadvertently leaving their partners to shoulder the burden. Research by sociologist Scott Coltrane shows that equal sharing of household tasks can lead to happier relationships. When one partner feels the weight of responsibilities disproportionally, it can lead to frustration and resentment. Establishing clear expectations can help balance the workload and promote cooperation. If one person is taking on the majority of the responsibilities, it can create tension. This imbalance can lead to feelings of being overwhelmed and underappreciated. Openly discussing each other's strengths and preferences can make it easier to divide tasks in a way that feels fair. Understanding and supporting each other's individual contributions is crucial. When shared responsibilities are equitably divided, it fosters a sense of teamwork and mutual respect. 4. They Put The Relationship Last In the hustle and bustle of daily life, some husbands may inadvertently neglect their relationship. The pressures of work, personal interests, and social commitments can take precedence over quality time with their partners. When a relationship isn't prioritized, it can lead to feelings of neglect and disconnection. It's vital to carve out time dedicated to nurturing the marriage. Consistently placing other commitments above the relationship can weaken the bond over time. Maintaining a strong marriage requires effort and intention. If the relationship is not actively nurtured, it can become stagnant. Regular date nights, meaningful conversations, and shared activities help sustain the connection. A conscious effort to prioritize the relationship demonstrates commitment and love. When both partners make the relationship a priority, it strengthens the foundation and enhances emotional intimacy. 5. They Dig Into Routine And Become Boring Change is an inevitable part of life, and marriage often brings about significant shifts. Some husbands might resist these changes, clinging to the familiarity of old routines and habits. Relationship expert Dr. Harriet Lerner suggests that resistance to change can be a defense mechanism against fear of the unknown. Adjusting to new dynamics, such as becoming parents or altering career paths, requires flexibility and adaptability. When resistance prevails, it can hinder growth and create conflict. A reluctance to embrace change can stall personal development and strain the relationship. It's important to approach change with an open mind and a willingness to adapt. By embracing change, couples can tackle challenges together and find new ways to grow. Communication plays a key role in navigating transitions smoothly. Recognizing that change is a shared journey can foster a sense of unity and strengthen the partnership. 6. They Let Themselves Go Physically Marriage often involves taking care of each other, but it's equally important to practice self-care. Some husbands may neglect their well-being, leading to stress and burnout. When self-care is overlooked, it can affect physical and emotional health, impacting both partners. Encouraging each other to prioritize self-care can enhance personal fulfillment and relationship satisfaction. A healthy partnership is built on the well-being of both individuals. Neglecting self-care can result in increased irritability and decreased energy. This can contribute to tension and misunderstandings in the relationship. Supporting each other in pursuing activities that promote relaxation and rejuvenation is vital. Whether it's exercise, hobbies, or downtime, self-care should be seen as a necessity, not a luxury. A balanced approach to self-care can bring renewed energy and positivity to the marriage. 7. They Become Super Defensive Conflict is a natural part of any relationship, but some husbands may struggle with managing it constructively. Avoiding conflict or resorting to defensiveness can exacerbate issues. Dr. John M. Grohol, a psychologist, explains that effective conflict resolution involves active listening and empathy. When disagreements are handled poorly, it can lead to unresolved tension and resentment. Tackling conflict with patience and understanding can pave the way for resolution and growth. Handling conflict requires patience and a willingness to understand different perspectives. If a husband consistently avoids addressing issues, it can lead to frustration and distance. Developing problem-solving skills and open communication can transform conflict into an opportunity for growth. Avoiding blame and focusing on solutions can make discussions more productive. Successfully navigating conflict strengthens the relationship and builds trust. 8. They Focus On Everything That's Wrong In some marriages, there can be a tendency to focus on the negatives rather than the positives. Constant criticism and dwelling on faults can create a toxic environment. It's easy to get caught up in what's wrong, but consistently highlighting negatives can erode the relationship's foundation. Recognizing and celebrating each other's strengths can shift the focus toward positivity. A positive outlook fosters appreciation and reinforces the bond. Focusing on the negatives can overshadow the many good aspects of the relationship. It's important to acknowledge and address issues without letting them dominate the dynamic. Expressing gratitude and acknowledging the positives can bring a sense of balance. Shifting from criticism to constructive feedback encourages growth and understanding. A positive approach can transform the overall atmosphere of the marriage. 9. They Stop Showing Up Intimately Intimacy is a crucial component of a healthy marriage, but some husbands may struggle to maintain it. Physical or emotional distance can emerge from stress, fatigue, or unresolved conflicts. Addressing intimacy issues can be challenging, but it's essential for maintaining a strong connection. Open communication about needs and desires can help bridge the gap. Understanding each other's perspectives can lead to a more fulfilling relationship. When intimacy wanes, it can create feelings of rejection and insecurity. It's vital to approach these issues with empathy and understanding. Reaffirming emotional and physical closeness can strengthen the bond and increase satisfaction. Intimacy isn't just about physical interaction; it encompasses emotional connection as well. Addressing intimacy openly can reinvigorate the relationship and enhance overall happiness. 10. They Become Complacent It's easy to become complacent in a marriage, especially after many years together. Complacency can lead to a lack of effort in maintaining the relationship's vibrancy. Couples may start to coast, forgetting that relationships require ongoing nurturing. It's essential to keep the connection alive by continually investing in the partnership. Complacency can slowly erode the depth and richness of the relationship. Complacency can manifest as a lack of spontaneity or diminished effort in romantic gestures. To combat this, it's essential to maintain a dynamic and engaging relationship. Trying new activities, exploring shared interests, and celebrating milestones can prevent stagnation. By actively seeking ways to keep the relationship fresh, partners can maintain a sense of excitement and fulfillment. A proactive approach keeps the love alive and encourages growth together. 11. They Stop Communicating Properly Effective communication is the cornerstone of a successful marriage, yet some husbands may overlook its importance. Assumptions and misunderstandings can arise when communication breaks down. Clear and open dialogue ensures both partners feel heard and understood. Neglecting communication can lead to unresolved issues and emotional distance. Prioritizing honest and respectful communication is vital for a thriving relationship. When communication falters, it can result in frustration and disconnection. Addressing communication gaps requires patience and willingness to listen and share openly. Practicing active listening and validating each other's feelings fosters a supportive environment. Regular check-ins and open discussions about feelings and expectations can strengthen the partnership. A commitment to open communication builds trust and closeness. 12. They Introduce Rivalry A bit of friendly competition can be healthy, but too much competitiveness can strain a marriage. When husbands become overly competitive, it can create an environment of rivalry rather than partnership. Constant one-upmanship can lead to tension and diminish cooperation. A marriage should be a team effort, not a contest. Emphasizing collaboration over competition fosters mutual support and understanding. Overly competitive behavior can stem from insecurity or a desire for validation. This can disrupt the harmony of the relationship and create unnecessary conflict. Recognizing when competitiveness crosses the line is crucial for maintaining balance. Encouraging each other's successes rather than competing can strengthen the partnership. A focus on mutual goals and achievements enhances the relationship's overall health. 13. They Strop Growing A fulfilling marriage encourages both partners to grow individually and together. However, some husbands may become stagnant, neglecting personal development. Personal growth fuels self-esteem and keeps the relationship dynamic. Encouraging and supporting each other's aspirations fosters a sense of fulfillment. When one partner neglects personal growth, it can lead to dissatisfaction and frustration. A lack of personal growth can result in boredom and restlessness within the marriage. Encouraging each other to pursue interests and goals helps maintain balance and individuality. Continuous learning and self-improvement contribute to a rich and vibrant relationship. Celebrating each other's achievements and supporting personal endeavors strengthens the partnership. By investing in personal growth, both partners contribute to a thriving marriage. 14. They Never Say Sorry Admitting mistakes and offering genuine apologies are crucial for a healthy relationship. Some husbands may struggle with admitting wrongdoing, leading to unresolved conflicts. A heartfelt apology demonstrates accountability and paves the way for forgiveness. When apologies are absent, resentment can build, creating emotional distance. Embracing humility and expressing regret fosters healing and understanding. A reluctance to apologize can stem from pride or fear of vulnerability. However, acknowledging mistakes is a vital step in resolving conflicts and maintaining trust. Apologies should be sincere and accompanied by a desire to make amends. By prioritizing reconciliation over ego, couples can navigate challenges more effectively. A culture of apology and forgiveness strengthens the relationship's foundation. 15. They Allow External Influences To Interfere External factors such as family, friends, or work can impact a marriage. Some husbands may struggle with setting boundaries, allowing these influences to interfere. Balancing external relationships with the marriage requires mindfulness and communication. Prioritizing the partnership while managing outside influences is essential for harmony. Establishing boundaries helps prevent conflicts and reinforces the marriage's importance. When outside influences interfere, it can create tension and divide attention. It's crucial to communicate openly about priorities and expectations regarding external relationships. By setting clear boundaries, couples can protect their marriage and maintain focus on their relationship. Encouraging a healthy balance between external commitments and the partnership promotes mutual respect. A strong marriage requires dedication to keeping external influences in check. Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
13 hours ago
- General
- Yahoo
13 Emotional Needs Most Marriages Fail To Talk About
Marriages are complicated, and they don't come with a manual. While love, trust, and respect are often discussed, there are several emotional needs that frequently fly under the radar. These needs aren't often talked about, but they can significantly impact your relationship's health and longevity. Addressing them can help build a stronger connection between you and your partner. Let's dive into thirteen emotional needs that many marriages overlook. 1. Validation Everyone wants to feel understood and acknowledged in their relationships. Validation is about recognizing your partner's feelings and experiences as legitimate. It's not just about agreeing with everything they say; it's about showing empathy and understanding their perspective. Dr. John Gottman, a renowned psychologist, emphasizes the importance of validation in relationships, suggesting that it reinforces emotional bonds and prevents conflicts. When your partner feels validated, they're more likely to open up, fostering deeper intimacy and trust. Ignoring validation can lead to feelings of isolation and disconnect. It can make your partner feel like their emotions don't matter, which can create a wall between you two. To practice validation, actively listen to your partner without interrupting. Reflect back what they've said to show you're genuinely engaged. This simple act can make a world of difference in how connected you both feel. 2. Appreciation Appreciation is about recognizing and valuing your partner's efforts, both big and small. It's easy to get caught up in routine and overlook the little things your partner does daily. Saying "thank you" or showing gratitude can make them feel cherished and respected. It reinforces positive behaviors and encourages your partner to continue being thoughtful. Remember, everyone likes to feel appreciated, and a little acknowledgment goes a long way in nurturing your relationship. On the flip side, a lack of appreciation can breed resentment. If one partner feels like their efforts go unnoticed, it can lead to frustration and dissatisfaction. It's essential to communicate your appreciation regularly, whether through words, actions, or small gestures. This habit not only boosts your partner's self-esteem but also strengthens your bond. So, take a moment to express genuine gratitude; it can transform your relationship dynamic. 3. Affection Affection is a powerful way to express love and connection. Whether through physical touch, like holding hands or a warm hug, or verbal affirmations, affection reassures your partner of your love. Dr. Gary Chapman, author of "The Five Love Languages," suggests that understanding your partner's preferred form of affection can enhance your emotional connection. Not everyone expresses or receives love in the same way, so it's crucial to learn and adapt to your partner's needs. Consistent affection can help maintain the warmth and intimacy in your marriage. Neglecting affection can lead to feelings of neglect or emotional distance. When one partner feels starved of affection, it can create insecurity and doubt in the relationship. Make it a habit to express affection daily, even in small ways. A simple "I love you" or a gentle touch can reaffirm your commitment and keep the spark alive. Remember, affection is not just a luxury in marriage; it's a necessity. 4. Emotional Safety Emotional safety is about creating an environment where your partner feels safe to express their true thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment or backlash. This aspect of a relationship is often overlooked but is crucial for fostering open communication and vulnerability. When your partner feels emotionally safe, they're more likely to share their innermost concerns and desires. This transparency helps build trust and intimacy, which are foundations of a healthy marriage. It's essential to practice active listening and show empathy to create this safe space. Without emotional safety, partners may withhold their true feelings, leading to misunderstandings and resentment. They might fear being criticized or dismissed, which can stifle honest communication. To cultivate emotional safety, make a conscious effort to listen without interrupting or jumping to conclusions. Validate your partner's feelings and ensure they know their emotions are important to you. This supportive atmosphere encourages openness and strengthens your emotional connection. 5. Shared Goals Having shared goals gives your relationship direction and purpose. Whether it's planning for a vacation or working towards financial stability, aligning your aspirations helps both partners feel like they're on the same team. According to relationship expert Dr. Terri Orbuch, couples who engage in shared activities and goals are more likely to experience marital satisfaction. Setting common objectives helps you grow together, reinforcing your bond and keeping you both motivated. It's essential to regularly discuss and revise these goals to ensure you're moving forward together. When couples lack shared goals, they might start to drift apart. Each partner may pursue individual interests without considering the impact on their relationship. This can lead to feelings of disconnect and a loss of shared purpose. To avoid this, make time to discuss your dreams and aspirations with your partner. Find common ground and establish goals that resonate with both of you. Working towards these shared objectives can deepen your connection and create a sense of partnership. 6. Autonomy While togetherness is essential in a marriage, so is the need for autonomy. Each partner should have the freedom to pursue individual interests and passions. Autonomy doesn't mean leading separate lives; it's about respecting each other's need for personal space and growth. Encouraging independence can lead to a healthier, more balanced relationship. It shows trust and respect for your partner's individuality, which can strengthen your bond. Lack of autonomy can lead to feelings of suffocation and resentment. When one partner feels overly dependent or restricted, it can create tension and dissatisfaction. To support each other's autonomy, encourage hobbies or activities that your partner enjoys. Respect their need for time alone or with friends, and ensure that you both have the opportunity to grow individually. By nurturing autonomy, you can maintain a healthy balance between togetherness and individuality in your marriage. 7. Support During Challenges Life is full of ups and downs, and having a supportive partner during challenging times is invaluable. Support isn't just about solving problems; it's about being there emotionally and offering a listening ear. According to Dr. Sue Johnson, a clinical psychologist, emotional responsiveness during difficult times can increase relationship satisfaction and resilience. When your partner feels supported, they're more likely to navigate challenges with confidence and strength. Your presence and encouragement can make all the difference during tough times. On the contrary, a lack of support can lead to feelings of isolation and helplessness. If one partner feels like they're facing challenges alone, it can create a disconnect and strain the relationship. To provide meaningful support, practice active listening and offer empathy without immediately jumping to solutions. Let your partner know you're there for them, no matter what. This unwavering support not only strengthens your relationship but also builds trust and intimacy. 8. Honesty Honesty is the foundation of trust in any relationship. Being truthful about your thoughts, feelings, and actions helps create a transparent and open environment. When both partners are honest, it fosters a sense of security and reliability in the marriage. It's important to communicate openly, even when the truth may be uncomfortable or difficult. By prioritizing honesty, you build a solid foundation that supports a lasting and fulfilling relationship. A lack of honesty can erode trust and create a web of misunderstandings. When one partner feels deceived, it can lead to feelings of betrayal and insecurity. To maintain honesty, establish clear communication channels and encourage openness. Remember that honesty isn't just about being truthful; it's also about being consistent. By practicing honesty in all aspects of your relationship, you can ensure a strong and trusting bond. 9. Humor And Fun Laughter is an essential ingredient in any healthy relationship. Sharing humor and fun moments helps relieve stress and keeps the relationship vibrant. Couples who laugh together often find it easier to navigate challenges and maintain a positive connection. It's important to make time for fun activities and playful interactions that bring joy to both partners. By prioritizing humor, you create a joyful atmosphere that can enhance your emotional bond. Without humor, a relationship can become dull and monotonous. The absence of laughter can lead to increased stress and tension, making it difficult to maintain a positive outlook. To keep humor alive, find activities or hobbies that you both enjoy and make time for them regularly. Share jokes, watch comedies, or engage in playful banter to keep the mood light and enjoyable. Remember, laughter is a powerful tool for strengthening your connection and maintaining a happy relationship. 10. Respect Respect is a fundamental component of any successful marriage. It's about honoring your partner's thoughts, feelings, and individuality. When both partners feel respected, it creates a sense of equality and mutual appreciation in the relationship. Respectful communication involves active listening, avoiding interruptions, and considering your partner's perspective. By prioritizing respect, you create a nurturing and supportive environment that strengthens your bond. A lack of respect can lead to resentment and conflict. When one partner feels belittled or dismissed, it can damage the relationship's foundation. To maintain respect, practice patience and understanding with each other. Acknowledge your partner's contributions and value their opinions. By fostering a respectful atmosphere, you can enhance intimacy and trust in your marriage. 11. Forgiveness Forgiveness is essential for healing and moving forward in any relationship. Holding onto grudges or past mistakes can create tension and prevent growth. When both partners practice forgiveness, it allows for a fresh start and reinforces a sense of compassion. It's important to address issues openly, express your feelings, and work towards resolution. By prioritizing forgiveness, you can foster a healthier, more resilient relationship. Without forgiveness, unresolved issues can fester and lead to bitterness. When partners are unwilling to let go of past grievances, it can create an emotional barrier. To practice forgiveness, focus on the present and future rather than dwelling on the past. Communicate openly about your feelings and work together to find common ground. By letting go of resentment, you can create space for healing and growth in your marriage. 12. Growth And Change Marriage is a journey that involves growth and change for both partners. Embracing personal and collective growth can lead to a more fulfilling and dynamic relationship. It's important to support each other's development and adapt to changes as they arise. When both partners are open to growth, it fosters a sense of curiosity and excitement in the marriage. By prioritizing growth, you can create a relationship that evolves and thrives over time. Resisting change can lead to stagnation and dissatisfaction. When one partner is unwilling to evolve, it can create tension and hinder the relationship's progress. To encourage growth, explore new experiences together and support each other's personal goals. Embrace change as an opportunity for learning and transformation. By nurturing growth, you can ensure a vibrant and evolving marriage. 13. Quality Time Spending quality time together is crucial for maintaining a strong and connected relationship. It's not just about being physically present; it's about engaging with each other meaningfully. Quality time involves active engagement, whether through conversations, shared activities, or simply enjoying each other's company. By prioritizing quality time, you create a space for connection and intimacy to flourish. It helps both partners feel valued and appreciated in the relationship. A lack of quality time can lead to feelings of neglect and distance. When partners don't make time for each other, it can create a sense of disconnection and loneliness. To ensure quality time, set aside regular moments to focus on each other without distractions. Plan activities that you both enjoy and make an effort to engage fully. By dedicating time to your relationship, you can strengthen your bond and maintain a healthy, vibrant marriage. Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Montreal woman is worried about husband's gambling addiction — now he owes $1.1M. Ramsey Show hosts said to do this ASAP
It's common for spouses to combine finances — but sometimes, even when you keep your money separate, one partner's bad habits can impact the other's financial future. Such is the case for Sarah from Montreal, Quebec, who called into The Ramsey Show two weeks after learning that her husband has a gambling addiction. Don't miss Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now become a landlord for as little as $100 — and no, you don't have to deal with tenants or fix freezers. Here's how I'm 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement — what should I do? Don't panic. Here are 6 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast) Robert Kiyosaki warns of a 'Greater Depression' coming to the US — with millions of Americans going poor. But he says these 2 'easy-money' assets will bring in 'great wealth'. How to get in now Despite having been together for 11 years, Sarah only recently discovered that her husband has racked up $1.1 million in debt over the past decade. Now, she's taken over his finances and wants to help him tackle his debts. "He had like maybe $1,000 left in his bank account and everything was maxed, so he needed help," said Sarah. The problem? She has no idea where to start. A tricky financial situation Sarah has long wanted to combine her finances with her husband, but he has always pushed back on the idea. On top of dealing with a gambling addiction that he had kept a secret, his debts have also made him fall behind on his taxes. Sarah's husband likely wanted to keep his finances separate so that he didn't drag her down into his mess, but as Sarah explained to hosts George Kamel and Jade Warshaw, her husband's actions have impacted them both. For one thing, the Canadian couple had plans to buy a home in Florida when Sarah thought they were doing well financially. Sarah herself has been saving well and thought her husband was doing the same. This gambling news came as a major blow, especially since it caught her off guard. "I was, like, totally, totally shocked," Sarah shared on the show. Now, the one saving grace is that Sarah's husband earns a high income from his business, which earns an annual revenue of about $1.3 million. And while that's not all profit, Sarah says her husband earns about $100,000 a month and they pay taxes on those earnings. However, he owes over $1 million, broken down as follows: $64,000 in back taxes from 2024 $550,000 in provisional taxes for the upcoming year (a requirement in Canada for high earners) $438,000 in a mortgage line of credit, or home equity line of credit (HELOC) $125,000 in a personal line of credit Sarah said that she and her husband are in couples therapy, while the two also see their own therapists individually. For Sarah, she hopes her therapy will help her cope with what's happened, while her husband's therapy will hopefully address his gambling addiction. Meanwhile, Kamel and Warshaw had advice for Sarah. Kamel told Sarah that she should take away her husband's remaining credit card and freeze his credit so that he can't take out another loan and spend more money on gambling. Warshaw, meanwhile, gave Sarah advice on how to tackle all of her husband's debt, which starts with paying off the taxes. "Do the old ones first, and then once you've cleared those, then start doing the prep for the next year," said Warshaw. Next, Warshaw recommended tackling the personal line of credit. "Do it in order like the debt snowball — personal loans first, smallest to largest," said Warshaw. After that, Warshaw suggested paying off the HELOC. Hopefully, if Sarah's husband continues to earn a good income and they stick to this plan, the two of them can dig their way out of this financial hole. Stay in the know. Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise sent straight to your inbox every week for free. Gambling addictions are on the rise Ever since the Supreme Court took steps to legalize sports betting, there's been an uptick in that activity, along with people seeking help with gambling addictions, according to a recent study by the University of California San Diego Qualcomm Institute and School of Medicine. The study's data found that internet searches for help with gambling addictions rose 23% on a national scale since 2018. Meanwhile, states that two million U.S. adults meet the criteria for a severe gambling addiction, while four to six million have a mild or moderate gambling addiction. Recent data from Gaming America also found that 10% of men 30 and under show signs of a gambling problem, compared to 3% of the general population. Part of the increase may be due to the growing popularity and availability of online sportsbooks, which have made it easier for people to bet on sports. But either way, a gambling addiction can be a costly problem to have. The National Council on Problem Gambling says the annual social cost of problematic gambling is an astounding $14 billion. According to the average man with a gambling addiction has anywhere from $55,000 to $90,000 of debt. Women with gambling addictions, meanwhile, have an average debt of $15,000. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, you can click here to find resources in your state. You don't want a gambling addiction to wreck your finances, relationships or your life as a whole, so it's critical that you do what you can to get ahead of it. Meanwhile, if you're already in debt due to a gambling problem, it pays to get help dealing with the financial end of things. You may want to consider consulting a financial advisor or a debt relief company for assistance. In some extreme cases, filing for bankruptcy might also be an option. What to read next Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan 'works every single time' to kill debt, get rich in America — and that 'anyone' can do it Here are 5 simple ways to grow rich with real estate if you don't want to play landlord. And you can even start with as little as $10 Rich, young Americans are ditching the stormy stock market — here are the alternative assets they're banking on instead Here are 5 'must have' items that Americans (almost) always overpay for — and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you? This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
CBC
09-07-2025
- Business
- CBC
Quebec pausing some applications for sponsorship of immigrants until 2026
The Quebec government says it won't accept new applications from residents who want to sponsor their spouses, common-law partners or adult children for immigration until next year. The Immigration Ministry says in a news release that it has reached its cap for sponsorship in those categories. As a result, the families of those immigrants would have to wait until June 25, 2026 to apply. The government announced last year that it would process a maximum of 13,000 family applications from immigrants seeking to reunite with relatives over the two-year period from June 2024 to 2026, after approving more than 16,500 in 2022 and more than 10,000 in the first six months of 2023. The current processing time to sponsor a spouse or partner living outside the country is 37 months in Quebec, compared to 11 in the rest of Canada.
Sky News
07-07-2025
- Business
- Sky News
What happens to your pension when you die?
What happens to your pension savings when you die depends on several factors, including whether you've reached retirement age, the type of pension you have, your marital status and the beneficiaries you have nominated. Strap in, this is quite complicated... but here's what you need to know… What happens to your state pension? It depends on whether you get the old or new state pension. If you reached state pension age before 6 April 2016, you are on the old state pension. You may be able to inherit some of your spouse or civil partner's state pension when they die. If you don't have a full national insurance record, you could top it up with your partner's eligible years - increasing your basic state pension. You may also be able to inherit part (generally 50%) of your spouse or civil partner's additional state pension or graduated retirement benefit. Contact the Pension Service to check what you can claim. Children or cohabiting partners are not entitled to anything. If you are on the new state pension, so post 6 April 2016, you can't make a claim for their national insurance qualifying years. However, if your partner built up more than the full amount of state pension, the additional amount is a "protected payment", half of which can be passed to your wife or husband. Private pensions - defined benefit Defined benefit pensions are now generally only available from public sector or older workplace pension schemes. This type of pension pays a retirement income based on your salary, and how long you made contributions to your employer's pension scheme. If this is the pension you have, the money paid to your beneficiaries will be outlined in the scheme's rules but often a spouse will receive around 50% of the money. If your children are under 23 and in full-time education, or mentally or physically impaired, they may also be eligible to get a percentage of the pension you were getting (or were due to get, if you die before pension age). "It's really important a couple checks whether or not an individual (particularly the spouse) will actually qualify for the spouse's pension if the person dies," Penny Cogher, a partner at Irwin Mitchell LLP, said. "They could have a very nasty shock if they don't qualify because they weren't married at the right time. "Some schemes provide children's pensions but there is no requirement to provide this." Private pensions - defined contribution Money left over in your defined contribution pension can be paid to beneficiaries in a few ways: Your beneficiaries can withdraw all the money as a lump sum; They can set up a guaranteed income (an annuity); They can also set up a flexible retirement income, called "pension drawdown". If you've chosen the annuity route (which we explain more here), it depends on which type you bought - a joint life annuity can be passed to a second person, whereas a single life annuity dies with you, though some offer guaranteed periods for a set period of time. If you chose drawdown (explained here), or for that matter, are still working, any money left can be passed on to family or whoever you wish. In most cases, the trustees who are appointed by the scheme will pay those you have nominated in your "expression of wish" form but they are not obligated to do so. "If somebody doesn't have an expression of wish, then the trustees will decide who receives your pension benefits, which may not align with the pension holder's wishes," said Gorkem Barron, from Lubbock Fine Wealth Management. Will it be taxed? Pensions are not currently subject to inheritance tax. But last year, the government extended the range of pension benefits that will become subject to inheritance tax from April 2027. Almost all lump sum death benefits will be subject to inheritance tax rules, as will unused drawdown funds. But remember, the first £325,000 of an individual's estate is exempt. And from 6 April this year, those seeking to transfer cash to pension schemes in the European Economic Area or Gibraltar will no longer be exempt from overseas transfer charges, as the government seeks to stop individuals reducing their tax liabilities by moving their pensions to another jurisdiction. Inherited pensions can also be subject to income tax - though the rules on this are a little convoluted. If you die before the age of 75, and are leaving money from a defined contribution pension pot or in drawdown, there's no income tax unless the lump sum and death benefit allowance has been exceeded. The lump sum allowance is £1,073,100 - anything over that is taxed at the beneficiary's marginal rates of income tax. If you die at 75 or over, anything you pass will be subject to income tax at the beneficiary's highest marginal income tax rate on any money they withdraw. With defined benefit pensions that leave a regular income to beneficiaries, there's usually no income tax - age doesn't come into play.
