Monday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: SmartMoney podcast on how to pay off debt faster. Also in the news: What to expect when requesting a credit limit increase, why you should always pay in local currency when traveling, and 10 money mistakes millennials should avoid. SmartMoney podcast: ‘How Can I Pay Off My Debt Faster?’ Tips from the […]

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Q&A: Don’t keep a mortgage just for the tax deduction

Dear Liz: Does the new tax law, with its increased standard deduction, change the calculus of maintaining my mortgage? I owe about $250,000 at 3.25% on a 30-year mortgage. I no longer itemize, so I don’t get the benefit of the tax deduction for the interest. My payments are about $1,500 a month, but I […]

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Q&A: If long-term care insurance costs too much, you have a choice to make

Dear Liz: We were told to buy long-term care insurance early because waiting too long would make it more expensive and perhaps unavailable. I bought mine when I was 55. At the time, it was $2,400 a year. Unfortunately, the premiums just kept going up. I am now 77, and the premium this year was […]

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Friday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: 4 things to do if your package arrives damaged. Also in the news: How to make the income you earn after 65 work for you, the U.S. cities with the highest job growth and wage increases in September, and a reminder to fill out the FAFSA ASAP if you want federal student […]

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Thursday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: Writing a will? How to stop stalling and get it done. Also in the news: Hidden financing traps in car shopping, how to protect yourself in the Words with Friends data breach, and the big wedding expense nearly half of married couples regret. Writing a Will? How to Stop Stalling and Get […]

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Wednesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: Is Premium Economy airfare worth the money? Also in the news: 6 common retirement mistakes and the simple solution to all of them, credit cards that go beyond rewards to cover travel costs, and how to protect your finances if you’re worried about a recession. Is Premium Economy Airfare Worth the Money? […]

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Tuesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: Be first in line for college aid by filing the FAFSA now. Also in the news: What to expect when requesting a credit line increase, four ways to supplement your college financial aid, and preparing your finances for the holidays. Be First in Line for College Aid by Filing the FAFSA Now […]

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How to quit stalling and write your will

You know you should have a will, but you keep stalling. No one likes to think about dying or about someone else raising their children. But if you get no further than scribbling notes or thinking about which lawyer to hire, you risk dying “intestate” — without a will that could guide your loved ones, […]

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Monday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: How to rack up points and miles with everyday spending. Also in the news: What to buy and skip in October, how to catch up on your savings, and why consumer instant gratification can prove risky. How to Rack Up Points and Miles With Everyday Spending Piling up miles wherever you go. […]

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Q&A: Should you pay off student loans or save for retirement? Both, and here’s why

Dear Liz: What are your recommendations for a recent dental school graduate, now practicing in California, who has about $250,000 of dental school loans to pay off but who also knows the importance of starting to save for retirement? Answer: If you’re the graduate, congratulations. Your debt load is obviously significant, but so is your […]

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