In times of financial instability, tapping into the equity in your home to get you through a rough patch may seem like a good idea. Before you do, though, watch Carmen Wong Ulrich explain the benefits and drawbacks of a Home Equity Live of Credit (HELOC) and find out if you're in the best position to take advantage of this type of loan or if you could be risking your home.

If you have a financial question you'd like Carmen to tackle, post it here in the comments or email us directly at ivcommunity@mail.ivillage.com

Watch Carmen Wong Ulrich's 'On The Money' Saturdays at 8PM ET on CNBC! Find more information on coping with the economy with our Bail Yourself Out resources.