Tuesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: How to quickly drop holiday debt. Also in the news: What to know when you hire a tax pro, what to buy (and skip) in February, and when to add your kid as an authorized user on your credit card. How to Quickly Drop Holiday Debt Shake off those extra zeroes. What […]

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Monday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: Why credit cards are targeting ‘convenience’ spending. Also in the news: When you tax refund can hurt more than it can help, how to master the awkward financial talk, and why $3 million is the new $1 million when it comes to retirement. Why Credit Card Rewards Are Targeting ‘Convenience’ Spending Convenience […]

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Q&A: Survivor benefits and earnings tests

Dear Liz: In a recent column, you suggested someone might not want to apply for early survivor benefits if they were still working because earnings over $18,240 will be reduced by $1 for every $2 earned. I don’t understand the logic. One can still earn $18,240, plus half of additional earnings plus the survivor benefit. […]

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Q&A:Don’t make this mistake with your retirement savings

Dear Liz: My wife and I are in our mid-40s and planning to buy what likely will be the last house we’ll purchase. I’ve decided to withdraw around $15,000 from my IRA to buy down the rate, which will guarantee returns in the form of interest savings, even if those will be less than the […]

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Thursday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: Who should consider a Roth conversion now? Also in the news: Morgan Stanley’s new cash account, how to make a savings plan, and an important student loan deadline. Who Should Consider a Roth Conversion Now? The Secure Act brings new options. Should You Check Out Morgan Stanley’s New Cash Account? A look […]

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Wednesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: How to have a ‘no regrets’ retirement. Also in the news: How to sell your car to family and friends, the debt payoff method that can also help your credit, and your last chance to file an Equifax breach settlement claim. How to Have a ‘No Regrets’ Retirement Putting off travel, buying […]

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Tuesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: 4 things to know if you’ve never budgeted before. Also in the news: Equifax breach – claims cutoff and more scammers ahead, how auto insurers use your nondriving habits to raise prices, and the benefits of filing taxes early. 4 Things to Know if You’ve Never Budgeted Before Breaking down the basics. […]

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Who should consider a Roth conversion now?

If you’ve saved a lot for retirement, or your parents have, you could be affected by recent changes in the rules about retirement distributions. The recently enacted Secure Act eliminated the “stretch IRA,” a strategy used by affluent investors to pass tax-advantaged money to their heirs. The stretch IRA allowed nonspouse beneficiaries — typically children […]

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Q&A: New Secure Act changes some retirement rules

Dear Liz: At age 70½, when I must withdraw money from my IRA, may I donate those dollars to a charitable organization without paying tax on the withdrawn funds? Answer: The short answer is yes, but you should know there have been some recent changes to retirement plan rules. Required minimum distributions now start at […]

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