3 times you need money advice from a human

You can now manage most aspects of your money without ever consulting another human being. You can budget, borrow, save, invest, buy insurance, prepare your tax return and create a will — among many other tasks — by using apps, websites and software.

But technology still has limitations, especially when you’re facing a money situation that’s complex or involves judgment calls. In my latest for the Associated Press, when to consider consulting a human expert.

Monday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: What new debt collector rules mean for you. Also in the news: A new episode of the Smart Money podcast on holiday travel and giving money advice to family, what to buy (and skip) on Black Friday, and questions to ask your realtor when selling your home.

What New Debt Collector Rules Mean for You
Find out where they can contact you.

Smart Money Podcast: Holiday Travel and Giving Money Advice to Family
The holidays are almost here.

What to Buy (and Skip) on Black Friday 2020
Start making your lists.

Questions to Ask Your Realtor When Selling Your Home
Important information.

Friday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: How to give money advice that sticks. Also in the news: 3 steps to spring clean your credit card debt, how to research 401(k) funds on Morningstar, and using a loan to pay your tax bill.

How to Give Money Advice That Sticks
Focus on what you say and how you say it.

3 Steps to Spring-Clean Your Credit Card Debt
Scrub that debt away.

How to Research 401(k) Funds on Morningstar
Navigating the investment research company.

Should You Use a Loan to Pay Your Tax Bill?
Check the interest first.

How to give money advice that sticks

Unsolicited money advice is like stale fruitcake: Most people wish the givers would just keep it to themselves.

Still, those who are “good with money” often want to help friends and family who struggle. Many of us remember the timely money tip that made all the difference: when a co-worker suggested we contribute to the company’s 401(k), for example, or that time a relative warned us off an investment that really was too good to be true.

In my latest for the Associated Press, I turned to neuropsychologist and executive coach Moira Somers, author of “Advice That Sticks: How to Give Financial Advice That People Will Follow.” Her book was written for financial planners, but the techniques she suggests, backed by behavioral finance research, could be helpful for anyone who wants to give effective money counsel.

Tuesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: When good money advice is bad for you. Also in the news: Loyalty program overload, 4 ways socially responsible banks are good for you and your wallet, and why we stress spend during the holidays.

When Good Money Advice Is Bad for You
One size does not fit all.

Loyalty Program Overload? Here’s How to Stay Focused
Making the programs work for you.

4 Ways Socially Responsible Banks Are Good for You and Your Wallet
When your money supports a mission.

Why we stress spend during the holidays — and how to stop
Curbing impulse behavior during the holidays.

Wednesday’s need-to-know money news

bad creditLearning how to take advice, cleaning up your credit report, and why working an extra year or two could be a good thing.

Why Can’t We Follow Simple, Good Money Advice?
Why is it so hard to adhere to the basics?

10 Steps to Help Erase Errors on Your Credit Report
Tips on removing errors from you all-important credit report.

8 Costs to Consider When Buying a Rental Property
Rental properties can be a great investment, but there are things you need to watch out for.

Is That Credit Card Surcharge Illegal?
Depending on where you live, that fee to use your card could be against the law.

When Should You Delay Retirement?
Could delaying your retirement pay off in the end?