Dear Mary: I would like to get my 12-year-old son a computer, however I'm not sure whether I can do this because my funds are so limited. I can't find a store that offers layaway, and I don't want to go into debt. How can we get an inexpensive but adequate computer? -- Teddy B., Indiana

Dear Teddy: Because your son is not likely to require the latest and greatest model out there, I suggest you look at refurbished computers. These are models that were purchased new and returned for any number of reasons. Perhaps they were too big, too small, the wrong color, or didn't work as expected. Computers that are being sold now as "refurbished" are tested thoroughly and certified. They're sold at huge discounts. There are refurbished PCs, as well as refurbished Apple computers. Always check the warranty and the return policy before any purchase. A 90-day limited warranty is standard for a refurbished computer. Two online sources for refurbished computers that you might want to consider are Overstock.com and Computers4Sure.com (click on the "Refurbished" tab).

Dear Mary: I have a lot of debt. In an emotional panic a few weeks ago, I sought guidance from a bankruptcy lawyer. Without even checking my credit history or looking at my credit score, she said I was a good candidate for bankruptcy. I paid $100 to open a file and returned a week later with the completed paperwork.

After the second meeting, I didn't have such a great feeling. I felt that the lawyer was pushing me to file fast. I thought hard about it and contacted her a third time. I mentioned that I was thinking of contacting my creditors to see whether they'd work with me. I asked whether that was something she could help me with, as it might have more weight coming from a lawyer. She told me I would have no problem filing bankruptcy. She completely disregarded other alternatives.

I went ahead and contacted my major credit card companies. Each has a program to help me. I did exactly what debt management companies do, except I didn't have to pay an extra fee to anyone to do it! No one told me how emotionally draining it'd be. I urge your readers to make sure they exhaust all other options before considering bankruptcy. Whether you decide to file or not, it is expensive to pay for a lawyer's time. -- Anonymous, New York

Dear Anon.: I applaud your decision and courage to do what I believe is the right thing. It's not going to be easy, and some days you will want to give up, but don't. Just keep moving forward, one step at a time.

Attorneys who handle bankruptcy filings are not credit counselors. They are not in business to talk people out of using their services. They're looking out for their bottom line and doing all they can to increase their billable hours. I am not surprised by this attorney's actions, but I am proud of you for taking responsibility for your situation and opting for the high road when filing for bankruptcy would have been the easier way out. Thanks so much for writing and letting me know.

Do you have a question for Mary? E-mail her at mary@everydaycheapskate.com, or write to Everyday Cheapskate, P.O. Box 2135, Paramount, CA 90723. Mary Hunt is the founder of DebtProofLiving.com and author of 17 books, including "Debt-Proof Living." To find out more about Mary and read her past columns, please visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com.
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