DEAR HARRIETTE: My father and I do not have a good relationship; we rarely speak, and when we do, it’s usually about money. I have huge credit card debt due to student loans and paying for part of my college tuition myself. Recently, my dad offered me an “interest-free loan,” meaning he would pay off a portion of my credit card debt. This would be extremely helpful to me because I wouldn’t have to pay the huge amount of interest anymore. The only thing that I am hesitant about is the fact I will now have another financial tie to my dad, which is something I was trying to stop. What do you think I should do? Accept my dad’s help or decline the offer and continue to pay off my credit card by myself? -- Credit Card Debt, Akron, Ohio
DEAR CREDIT CARD DEBT: Think about your creditors: a credit card company that doesn’t know you but that heaps on hefty interest rates and penalties, and your dad, from whom you are estranged but who will not charge you interest. Yes, you may have to endure his commentary or whatever else is part of your contentious dynamic with him, but you will not have to pay extra fees. Plus, this shows that your dad loves you, even if he doesn’t express it well. Go with your dad, and try to work on your relationship, too.
(Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send questions to askharriette@harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)