Kathryn McCall Urges Americans to Tackle Medical Debt as Savings Fall to 3%-4%
Updated
Updated · KCRA Sacramento · Aug 6
Kathryn McCall Urges Americans to Tackle Medical Debt as Savings Fall to 3%-4%
2 articles · Updated · KCRA Sacramento · Aug 6
Summary
Medical debt should be a top priority for households, Kathryn McCall said, urging people to review itemized bills, confirm insurance payments and negotiate with providers for lower charges or payment plans.
Fidelity data showing Americans are saving just 3% to 4% of income this year framed her advice as back-to-school costs and other seasonal expenses build.
Utility bills offer another savings target: McCall said running dishwashers, washers and dryers during summer peak hours from 8 a.m. to midnight can cost 15 times more, while using them before 8 a.m. can cut rates roughly in half.
Extra income can come from selling unused clothes online or through Sacramento consignment shops, she said, and unused PTO should be treated as lost compensation because paid time off is effectively money already earned.