Monday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: Do you really need a million dollar life insurance policy? Also in the news: A new episode of the Smart Money podcast on stock market shakiness, DIY vs Calling a Pro, and everything you need to know about your next side hustle.

Do I Really Need a Million-Dollar Life Insurance Policy?
You don’t need to be a millionaire to qualify for a large life insurance policy.

Smart Money Podcast: Stock Market Shakiness, and Car Buying in 2022
In dealing with stock market jitters and the need to replace a car this year, patience can really pay.

DIY or Call a Professional: Which Is Right for Your Remodel?
You can save money on easier home updates, but call an expert if a project involves plumbing or electrical work.

Everything You Need to Know About Your Next Side Hustle
You’ve heard that the grind never stops. But how do you get the grind to start?

Friday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: AARP credit card holders endure bumpy move to Barclays from Chase. Also in the news: 5 steps to level up your side hustle, how much it really costs to drive a new car, and one couple’s journey to tame their debt.

AARP Credit Card Holders Endure Bumpy Move to Barclays From Chase
Barclays apologizes for long call hold times, card transition woes. Issuer beefs up call support.

5 Steps to Level Up Your Side Hustle
Growing your side gig into a legit business requires research, planning and organization.

How Much Does It Really Cost to Drive a New Car?
A 5% increase in car ownership costs means your budget should include more than the monthly payment.

How I Ditched Debt: Pandemic After Payoff Tests Couple’s Resilience
One couple’s journey to tame their debt.

Tuesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: Side hustle much? You might have the wrong credit card. Also in the news: Make a financial recovery kit to rally faster after disaster, 7 finance tips for 2020 grads entering an economy with few jobs, and that debit card your were mailed is actually your coronavirus relief payment.

Side hustle much? You might have the wrong credit card.
You could qualify for a business credit card.

Make a Financial Recovery Kit to Rally Faster After Disaster
Use your free time wisely.

7 finance tips for 2020 grads entering an economy with few jobs
Finding the help you need.

That Debit Card You Were Mailed Is Actually Your Coronavirus Relief Payment
Don’t throw it out.

Friday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: The IRS’ new tax-filing deadline is July 15th. Also in the news: Tax traps that side hustlers should avoid, what not to do when spring cleaning your finances, and what you need to know about the Families First Coronavirus Response Act.

The IRS’ New Tax-Filing Deadline Is July 15. Here’s What to Know Now
You have an extra three months.

Tax Traps That Side Hustlers Should Avoid
Don’t get caught with a big tax bill.

What Not to Do When Spring Cleaning Your Finances
Don’t be too drastic.

What You Need to Know About the Families First Coronavirus Response Act
Find out how you benefit.

Tax traps that side hustlers should avoid

Millions of Americans earn extra money outside their regular jobs — as ride-hailing drivers, Airbnb hosts, eBay sellers and freelancers of all kinds. Their side hustle income may help make ends meet, but it also can create tax traps.

Side gigs usually count as self-employment, which triggers different rules, additional tax forms and plenty of confusion for people accustomed to filing as employees, tax experts say.

In my latest for the Associated Press, find out how to avoid surprises when it comes to tax time.

Tuesday’s need-to-know money news


Today’s top story: The one form that could be the root of all your tax woes. Also in the news: Income-driven student loan repayments, 4 credit score horror stories that could happen to anyone, and understanding the difference between a hobby and a side hustle.

This One Form Could Be the Root of All Your Tax Woes
The innocent looking W-4.

Income-Driven Repayment: Is It Right for You?
What to do when you can’t afford your student loan payments.

4 credit score horror stories that could happen to anyone
Tiny mistakes that could trash your credit.

Before You Do Your Taxes, Understand the Difference Between a Hobby and a Side Hustle
When your hobby becomes a job.