Monday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: How to vanquish 5 common financial fears. Also in the news: Will you get what Social Security promises, how to save money online with these sneaky tricks, and 10 better money habits to start now. Vanquish 5 Common Financial Fears Time to put these fears to rest. Will You Get What Social […]

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Q&A: Triggering the windfall elimination provision

Dear Liz: After working and paying into Social Security for more than 40 years, I took a city job at age 60. This job does not pay into Social Security and will afford me a small pension upon retirement in a few years (I’m now 64). Will this pension amount be deducted from my Social […]

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Q&A: Medicare vs. spouse’s health plan

Dear Liz: I am planning to retire in a few months at 65. My husband, who is five years younger, works for a corporation that provides excellent health insurance. When I sign up for Medicare, will I still be able to stay on my husband’s health insurance? Which insurance will be listed first for coverage? […]

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Friday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: AmEx makes it easier for immigrants to access credit. Also in the news: Retirement savings mistakes financial advisors see too often, big changes could be in store for student loan borrowers, and why you shouldn’t tell the person you just started dating about how much money you have. AmEx Makes It Easier […]

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Thursday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: Will you get what Social Security promises. Also in the news: 3 things to do when you get a salary increase, 4 winter wellness experiences you can book with points, and using teen debit cards to teach your kids real-world lessons about money. Will You Get What Social Security Promises? Your estimate […]

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Wednesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: 6 places to shop on Black Friday. Also in the news: Is a 580 credit score good or bad, a new bill would make for-profit colleges ineligible for federal student loans, and what to do if a stranger sends you money on Venmo. 6 Places to Shop on Black Friday — Big-Boxes […]

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Tuesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: Buy a real car now before they become extinct. Also in the news: How Shea Couleé of ‘Drag Race’ fashions her finances, 8 credit card strategies, and 3 things to do when you get a salary increase. Buy a Real Car Now Before They Become Extinct Sedans are disappearing. Money/Makers Q&A: How […]

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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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