After a couple month break, eleven women got together on zoom to share tips and experiences working through challenging situations with companies.

Some key discussion items:
-Pay with credit card provides protection; member was able to cancel a payment when she discovered the work was not completed satisfactorily. The company never argued. Checks and debit cards do not provide this same protection.
-If you travel, get a credit card that has no "foreign transactions fees". Capital One and other credit cards can offer; Affinity credit union offers. This should be clearly stated.
-Persistence (aka the squeaky wheel) matters. Social Security offices are severely understaffed and many workers are unable to get to their backlog.
-Go to local social security office for better service as compared to contacting federal phone number.
-Multiple women complimentary of customer service from Medicare Advantage companies. Some women have found talking with Medicare staff to be frustrating.
-Shoutout to US Bank for good response to fraudulent credit card charge including crediting charge, cancelling card, and sending new card
-Multiple instances of companies providing better deal if you actually cancel - Sirius XM and Star Tribune are examples
-Get a written estimate/quote for any work that is to be done
-TMobile guaranteed for life price wasn't!
-Know who owns the company you are hiring. Many instances of private equity firms getting involved in building contractors, health clinics, etc. Don't think it turns out best for consumer
-Some companies (example plumber) want to come out and see before they provide estimate; trip charge can be applied if you have work completed
-Keep an updated list of all your recurring payments. If card compromised, payments can be missed
-If payment missed because credit card changed, consequences can be severe including cancellation of enrollment.
 -Freeze credit at 3 credit bureau - Equifax, Trans Union, Experian. Easy to do and prevents somebody from opening account/loan/etc as you
-Create a separate checking account for companies that pull payment. Keeps your main checking account from being exposed.
-If you move money to checking, always send from other account (savings, brokerage, etc). Keep the checking account from knowing other account numbers in case it was ever compromised.

On Tuesday, September 15, we will be talking about Social Security. In October, we plan to discuss Medicare. In November, we will focus on year end actions and tax implications.

All are welcome to join us on zoom. Join the group or contact Cyndy using the info above.