Reluctant to retire? 3 signs you’re ready

Many people don’t have much choice about when they retire. Illness, job loss or caretaking responsibilities push them out of the labor force, ready or not. But some people have the opposite problem: They do have a choice, and yet they can’t quite bring themselves to quit working. In my latest for the Associated Press, […]

Continue reading...

Monday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: Should you bank with your brokerage?Also in the news: AirPods Black Friday 2021 deals, Smart Money Podcast on the benefits of being boring with your money, and saving money even back at the gym. Should You Bank With Your Brokerage? A cash management account can make it easier to invest, and CMAs […]

Continue reading...

Q&A: Gift taxes vs. estate taxes

Dear Liz: A reader recently asked about passing a $500,000 inheritance to their children. You mentioned the option of disclaiming, or refusing the inheritance so that it would go to their kids. You wrote, “If you decide not to disclaim and later give the entire $500,000 to your kids, you wouldn’t have to pay gift taxes until […]

Continue reading...

Q&A: Exes and Social Security benefits

Dear Liz: I receive Social Security. My recently divorced girlfriend receives Social Security from her ex-husband who is still living. If we were to get married, would either of us lose part or all of our Social Security benefits? It seems like a simple, straightforward question, but every Social Security representative I speak with by phone […]

Continue reading...

Q&A: How a fee-only financial planner differs from a fee-based one

Dear Liz: What is the difference between a fee-based financial planner and a fee-only financial planner? I have had a few complimentary meetings with a fee-based financial planner regarding retirement planning and income-generating strategy. I am 61 and currently have $325,000 in a traditional IRA and a 401(k) from a former employer, with 70% of both […]

Continue reading...

Friday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: How to leave Crypto to a loved one. Also in the news: Black Friday return policies, the October jobs report gives tired travelers a glimmer of hope, and the unexpected way bad credit messes with your life. How to Leave Crypto to a Loved One If you don’t make a plan for […]

Continue reading...

Thursday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: When a will won’t work. Also in the news: 6 gift categories unaffected by supply chain delays, 3 ways to tap the unexpected equity in your leased car, and alternatives to backdoor Roths. When a Will Won’t Work Consider the limitations of a will when making arrangements for your final wishes. 6 […]

Continue reading...

Wednesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: How to prepare for holiday crowds and chaos at airports. Also in the news: 9 ways to travel more safely, what you need to know about Medigap Plan N, and how to squeeze another 20K miles out of your current car. How to Prepare for Holiday Crowds and Chaos at Airports Get […]

Continue reading...

Tuesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: Don’t let Black Friday debt trigger post-holiday blues. Also in the news: Things to do by year-end for your investments, November mortgage rates continue to rise, and how to shop now and get Black Friday prices later. Don’t Let Black Friday Debt Trigger Post-Holiday Blues Prioritize needs, budget your spending, then make […]

Continue reading...

When a will won’t work

A will allows you to distribute your worldly goods, select a guardian for minor children and name an executor to carry out your wishes. But you should be aware of what a will can’t or shouldn’t do. This is particularly true if you’re drafting your own document without an attorney’s help, since you could unknowingly […]

Continue reading...