Money, Money, Money

Hello and welcome! :) How is your spring so far? Anita here with you this time, and we’re going to talk about money and safe ways of using it as a person who is blind or visually impaired.

Recently, I had to suggest to one of my students that it isn't a good idea to announce in public that one has money in one's possession. As adults, most of us know that. But, as blind people, how often are we tempted to ask a stranger to help us with money identification? And, I also think about how using low vision or a money identifier in public to do this task is just the same as loudly saying we have money.  This tempts the less trustworthy of the general public to snatch it.

Summer is upon us, and I know I will be out and about. Fortunately for me, I do not often carry cash. When I do have it, however, I make sure to carry small bills. If I only have fives, then I don't have to worry about accidentally handing someone a 20 when I intended a five.

If you do decide to carry various denominations, then using a consistent money folding system is essential. I fold my 20s in half lengthwise, my tens in half widthwise and then half that, my fives in half, and leave my ones straight. Then, I can reach into my purse or wallet and pull out the right amount without pulling all of my money out. It is hidden inside, and I am also less likely to lose it. When the cashier hands me my change, I make sure I verify how she gives me the money. For instance, I'll place my hand on the top bill and say "This is the five, right?”

Usually change is given with the largest denomination on the bottom, but you can't always count on it. Don't rush; taking your time means you are less likely to lose your money. The person in line behind you will most likely be a patient person, and if not, they needs to learn patience anyhow.

I prefer to use my bank card for most purchases. I'm not fond of signing on the screens, and so I choose to accept the debit option, which requires me to punch in my pin number. Have you noticed that most of these number pads have a raised dot on the number 5 key? Remember as you type in your pin, hold your other hand over the one that is punching in the code so people can't see what you are pushing. However you pay, be the one in control of your money. It may be easier to accept help in identifying your money or punching in your code when in public, but doing so may result in your money being stolen from you.

Many ATM's have a talking feature, and a voice guides you through your transaction. The machine has a headphone jack so only you hear the speech. Also, the machines I've used have an option to darken the screen, which I always select. If you haven't used them before, ask a trusted family member or friend to go with you to show you how they work. Often, braille and tactile symbols are present to assist in your orienting yourself to the machine, and so be on the lookout for them. Until you are familiar with the process, listen to the audio guide and take your time. Using a talking ATM machine is similar to using the automated system on a phone in that it tells you which button to press for a given option. But unfortunately, my phone has never spit out any cash for me, smiley.

Speaking of using the phone, I also use it to pay bills and make purchases. A computer with Internet access can also be used for this. For example, I dial Penny Mack's toll-free number and use the automated system to pay my mortgage each month. I pay my Mom's insurance and a couple of other bills by having them automatically deducted from my checking account each month. And, I use the Internet to shop. Unfortunately, my EBay app on my cell phone is very accessible, and I shop there way too much. I have bought dolls I am collecting from my childhood, parts I needed for my Roomba vacuum cleaner, and more. I have even bought groceries from them. A friend uses amazon.com to purchase her groceries. These companies ship your purchases to your home. Remember, never give out your personal information over the phone, Internet,  or through email, unless you are the one who decides the company is legitimate. Companies will never contact you for personal information, such as your bank account number or social security number. Yes, I had to fill in bank and some personal information for EBay and Amazon, but I knew who I was giving the information to. Also, I will never respond to them if they request information from me, even if they tell me I am owed money or have won a prize. Doing so is not wise because a scammer is the one behind the request.

Be very cautious when handling your money and your personal information. And, enjoy your shopping!

Thank you for being with us today. We hope we have been a help to you. Drop us a comment below or send us an email at adkinsandwells@gmail.com, and let us know how we’re doing.

In just two weeks we will be posting another Interview to Empower, and you won’t want to miss it, so mark your calendars for May 24. Until then, get outside and enjoy the sunshine.

Blessings.