Dear Liz: We have one primary credit card, which we use all the time, that collects airline miles we use for travel. Every few months it is “compromised” and we have to get a new one. Is there something we’re not doing right? Are there “good hygiene” rules for credit cards? Answer: Yes, and most involve reducing […]
Recent Blog Posts
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to find a happy balance among competing savings goals. Also in the news: Smart Money Podcast: live from Las Vegas, easy solutions to 3 common air travel nightmares, and how relaxed COVID guidelines will affect your next trips. How to Find a Happy Balance Among Competing Savings Goals Deciding how to […]
Tuesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Socially conscious financial decisions in tight times. Also in the news: How to start saving for your kids’ college, If a high-yield savings account is really high-yield, and if Airbnbs are more cost-effective than hotels. Socially Conscious Financial Decisions in Tight Times Even if you can’t donate cash to causes you care about, volunteer […]
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Student debt cancellation news, and money 101. In other news: How public defender in Florida got her student loans forgiven, and how much fees do impact Airbnb prices. Smart Money Podcast: Student Debt Cancellation News, and Money 101 Here’s what we know and what we still need answers to. How I Got […]
Q&A: When to start Social Security
Dear Liz: I’m confused by your answer to the question about starting Social Security too early. You wrote that someone who decides they made a mistake can suspend the benefit once they reach full retirement age. From the description, it sounds like there is no penalty for this option, so everyone should do it! This sounds too good […]
Q&A: How to build a credit history so you don’t turn ‘credit invisible’
Dear Liz: After reading about people being “credit invisible,” I’m wondering if I should have a credit card to build a payment history. I’m 67 and on Social Security. I thought having a guaranteed income and no outstanding debt would be appealing to a potential landlord while applying for an apartment, but maybe that’s not the case. What […]