Wondering about Disney Cruises

[hobie16]

Its unfortunate that these places charge such insane fees. In canada they are limited to 28% on loans,by law. And they charge every penny of it. Im not sure if the fees for cashing cheques are capped or not. But I know that a neighbor of my parents owns one, a franchise of a national chain. And in about 5 years it turned a well off businessman into a multi millionaire. He's a pleasent guy. But really he made his fortune preying on those who could least afford it. He eases his conscience by looking at it as he provides banking services to those who otherwise cant get them. Often these customers do not have ID, dont trust the banks or government, have a variety of 'issues". He feels he is their friend. :-(

This kind of thing is one reason the govenment keeps talking about giving out debit cards to social assistance recipients, freeing them from predatory cheque cashing shops.

Word.

This guy could be your neighbor.

[YANXWIN]

And unfortunately, these are the people that will never seem to dig their way out of that hole either. They make a bad decision that prompts another bad decision and another and another. It is a little heartbreaking. I have watched my sister go through this and I think they might be coming to their senses. I hate to see people make such short term choices without being able to look to the future.

[felinefan]

In the past, I've been careful to use only check cashing places that charge like 1% or so. But now I have a savings account with a credit union. CUs are opening up their membership to a wider segment of people instead of just those in certain industries. My CU is for anyone who lives, works or worships in Orange County, CA. They charge a one-time $10 fee, and give better rates on loans, etc., than banks. They're also more personable and friendly. And I can't blame people for not trusting banks--I've been burned by some, myself. CUs are not government-run, except for the FDIC deposit insurance, so it would be perfect for anyone who hates banks.

[hobie16]

Credit unions are a great way to go. They're member owned and operate for the purpose of promoting thrift, providing credit at competitive rates and other financial services.

[WEDFan]

I'm a fan of credit unions, too. Somehow they can still manage to deliver the local touch, even when they are handling a fairly large amount in deposits.