Will you get what Social Security promises?

The Social Security Administration will happily forecast your future monthly retirement check. Trouble is, it’s often off the mark. Understanding the sometimes-flawed assumptions underlying the estimate can help you make smarter decisions about when to claim your benefit. First, of course, you should know how to access those estimates. You can find yours online by […]

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Monday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: In ‘SIM Swap,’ criminals really have your number. Also in the news: Don’t let price be your only guide when choosing an airport, a new SmartMoney podcast, and why you shouldn’t sign up for an airline credit card when you’re on the plane. In ‘SIM Swap,’ Criminals Really Have Your Number How […]

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Q&A: Death doesn’t take a financial holiday. Here’s a cautionary tale

Dear Liz: My daughter has two children, ages 2 and 4. Recently the children’s father took his own life. He was 27. The job he worked as long as I knew him paid him in cash, so he didn’t pay into Social Security. Does this mean the children cannot receive survivor benefits from Social Security? […]

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Q&A: Pension payout planning

Dear Liz: My husband and I each receive a pension from the companies where we worked. If my husband dies first, will his company continue to pay me his pension and vice versa? Answer: That depends on how you chose to receive your benefits. Typically people are offered a choice of payouts: a “single life” […]

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Q&A: Living trust viewing restrictions

Dear Liz: How in the world do I find out the details of my parents’ trust? My father recently died and my mother, who is 89, is not familiar with the details. My older sister is not responsive when I ask questions. She and I are the only children. My husband recently became disabled and […]

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Friday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: 8 credit card strategies – and some surprises, too. Also in the news: The technophobe’s guide to cybersecurity, why the Apple Card could make you spend more, and why Cash App users should be on the lookout for scams. 8 Credit Card Strategies — And Some Surprises, Too Using your cards strategically. […]

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Wednesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: The cheapest ways to fly to Hawaii using points and miles. Also in the news: 5 things to know about the Platinum Delta SkyMiles business credit cards, why you should use caution with buy-now, pay-later platforms, and see how the Democratic candidates tax plans would affect you. The Cheapest Ways to Fly […]

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Tuesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: How to navigate the Yahoo data breach settlement. Also in the news: Identity theft and babies, getting grandparents on board with using reward credit cards, and a more realistic way to look at health care costs in retirement. How to Navigate the Yahoo Data Breach Settlement Here we go again. Has Your […]

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In ‘SIM swap,’ criminals really have your number

If you’re not familiar with SIM swap fraud, prepare to be terrified. This scam, also known as port-out or SIM splitting fraud, allows criminals to hijack your cell phone number. Once they have your number, the bad guys can clean out your financial accounts, confiscate your email, delete your data and take over your social […]

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Q&A: Weighing investment choices

Dear Liz: I felt your advice about using an inherited IRA to pay off a mortgage was spot on, but I would add one suggestion. The person could use their required minimum distribution (or a little extra) from the inherited IRA each year to pay down the principal on the mortgage. Then they could see […]

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