Answer: -Don't bother messing with big companys like dell, compaq, hp, gateway. try to see if there is a computer repair shop(small business) in your area. they could probably build you a good little pc out of spare parts. nothing to special. i would definately go for that instead of a new dell which would cost at least $400 after rebates and shipping. -Put one on layaway at a store like Target. Go for a simple, cheap model if all you really need it for is internet access (bills) and word processing (letters). If you go to an electronics store, they will probably try to sell you something more expensive than you need/can afford.