Age brings unique opportunities and obligations, including some important year-end tasks that can help you make the most of your money. In my latest for the Associated Press, some tasks to consider for those 50 and up.
Liz's Blog
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to avoid going overboard and over budget on kids’ holiday gifts. Also in the news: A new episode of the Smart Money podcast on countering uncertainty and building wealth early, Medicare and prescription drug costs, and what you need to know about Medigap Plan D.
Avoid Going Overboard and Over Budget on Kids’ Holiday Gifts
To avoid overspending this year, find a gifting strategy that works for your kids and your budget.
Smart Money Podcast: Countering Uncertainty, and Building Wealth Early
Sean and Liz discuss how to counter uncertainty, and respond to a young listener’s question about building wealth.
Does Medicare Cover Prescription Drugs?
Original Medicare beneficiaries can buy prescription coverage called Part D. Medicare Advantage plans usually include coverage.
What Is Medigap Plan D? What You Need to Know
Medigap Plan D helps Medicare enrollees with some costs not covered by Medicare Part A and Part B.
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to holiday shop at the last minute. Also in the news: 6 ways to save money on holiday travel, 2022 small business outlook, and easy ways to clean up your finances before another year begins.
How to Holiday Shop at the Last Minute
Here’s what to do if you still have gifts left to purchase this month.
6 Ways to Save Money on Holiday Travel
Leverage the perks and advantages provided by travel credit cards to cut costs this season.
Small-Business Outlook: 6 Predictions for 2022
Small businesses can expect more access to capital in 2022.
Easy Ways to Clean Up Your Finances Now, Before Another Year Begins
The lazy person’s guide to starting 2022 with a clean slate.
Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to stay up to date on foreign travel restrictions. Also in the news: Southwest to roll out 4th fare type in 2022, maximizing holiday spirit while minimizing taxes, and how to spot a shady landlord.
How to Stay Up to Date on Foreign Travel Restrictions
Look to federal agency and embassy websites for up-to-date information on travel advisories and requirements.
Southwest to Roll Out 4th Fare Type in 2022: What to Know
Southwest Airlines’ planned addition will give passengers more options.
Charitable Donations: Maximize Holiday Spirit, Minimize Taxes
Year-end charitable donations do good all around. While giving to others, you can get a break on your taxes.
How to Spot a Shady Landlord (Before It’s Too Late)
Before you sign your lease, watch for these warning signs.
8 rules for saving, borrowing and spending money
The best personal finance advice is tailored to your individual situation. That said, a few rules of thumb can cut through the confusion that often surrounds money decisions and help you build a solid financial foundation.
In my latest for the Associated Press, guidelines for saving, borrowing, spending and protecting your money culled from nearly three decades of writing about personal finance.
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Cash back, miles, or…wine? Credit card rewards are evolving. Also in the news: A new episode of the Smart Money podcast on why you should question your bills and how to make the most of a raise, Medicare’s telehealth experiment could be here to stay, and the best way to ask for a cost-of-living increase.
Cash Back, Miles or … Wine? Credit Card Rewards Are Evolving
If cash back and travel feel blah, a new crop of credit cards will reward you in different ways.
Smart Money Podcast: Why to Question Your Bills, and Making the Most of a Raise
Medicare’s Telehealth Experiment Could Be Here to Stay
An astronomical increase in telehealth visits by Medicare beneficiaries in 2020 could prompt a reshaping of post-pandemic rules.
The Best Way to Ask for a Cost-of-Living Raise
Inflation rates are the highest they’ve been in 30 years.