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Monday’s need-to-know money news

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Today’s top story: The pros and cons of selling your home to an iBuyer. Also in the news: A new episode of the Smart Money podcast on travel insurance and buying an electric car, 5 pandemic credit card habits to carry forward, and preparing your wedding budget for the reception resurgence.

Pros and Cons of Selling Your Home to an iBuyer
Figuring out your priorities — such as having a flexible schedule, getting the best price or minimizing stress — can help you decide whether selling to an iBuyer could work for you.

Smart Money Podcast: When Travel Insurance Is Worth It and Buying an Electric Car
What it offers, how much it costs and when you should purchase it.

5 Pandemic Credit Card Habits to Carry Forward
Among credit card holders whose credit limits were cut during the pandemic, 93% say their financial views or strategies changed because of it.

Is Your Wedding Budget Ready for the Reception Resurgence?
Wedding celebrations are back.

Thursday’s need-to-know money news

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Today’s top story: What to do if you save too much for retirement. Also in the news: The ins and outs of starting a car, financial pros are hanging on to stocks, and why you need multiple savings accounts.

What to Do If You Save Too Much for Retirement
Saving too much for retirement can cause problems as well as saving too little. Beware of IRS rules and penalties.

So You Think You Know How to Start a Car
It’s become much more complicated

Selling Stocks on Inflation Fears? Financial Pros Wouldn’t
The inflation sirens are wailing, but financial pros say there’s no reason to panic.

Why You Need Multiple Savings Accounts
Multiple accounts make it easier to reach your savings goals.

Wednesday’s need-to-know money news

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Today’s top story: How to know when it’s time to ditch your starter credit card. Also in the news: How to cover yourself against car theft, tips on paying for your wedding, and how to make a budget if you want to freelance full time.

How to Know When It’s Time to Ditch a Starter Credit Card
Don’t get too comfortable with your first card — once it’s done its job, it’s time to move on.

Car Theft Is Up in the U.S.: Here’s How to Cover Yourself
With the right kind of insurance, you could avoid paying out of pocket if your car or catalytic converter is stolen.

Weddings Are Marching Back: Here’s How to Pay for Yours
It’s best to pay for a wedding with savings, but if you need to finance, look for low-interest options with affordable payments.

How to Make a Budget If You Want to Freelance Full Time
Turning side hustles into main hustles.

What to do if you save too much for retirement

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Many Americans don’t save enough for retirement, but it’s entirely possible to save too much — at least according to the IRS.

Tax laws limit how much you’re allowed to contribute to retirement accounts, and excess contributions can be penalized. Uncle Sam doesn’t want you to leave the money in the account too long, either. Those who fail to take enough out of their retirement accounts also face heavy penalties.

In my latest for the Associated Press, what you need to know to stay on the right side of the IRS’ rules.

Tuesday’s need-to-know money news

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Today’s top story: What Grammy winner Brandi Carlile can teach you about money. Also in the news: What changed when you were ignoring travel, top 12 best business credit cards for startups, and how to claim your monthly child tax credit.

What Grammy Winner Brandi Carlile Can Teach You About Money
In her new memoir, the singer shares her personal finance life lessons.

What Changed While You Were Ignoring Travel?
Catch up on what happened in the travel industry while you were staying home.

Top 12 best business credit cards for startups
Finding the right card for your new business.

How to Claim Your Monthly Child Tax Credit
Over 88% of American families qualify for a tax break worth up to $3,600 per kid.

Monday’s need-to-know money news

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Today’s top story: When it’s OK to let your good credit score drop. Also in the news: A new episode of the Smart Money podcast on crypto credit cards and short-term investing, why balance transfer cards are starting to make a comeback, and how a 24-year-old crushed $20K+ in credit card debt.

When It’s OK to Let Your Good Credit Score Drop
Don’t let possible score damage stop you from putting your credit to use in an emergency or to grab an opportunity.

Smart Money Podcast: Crypto Credit Cards and Short-Term Investing
A look at the best funds for short-term investing.

Why Balance Transfer Credit Cards Are Starting to Blossom Again
As the economy recovers from the effects of COVID-19, credit card issuers are bringing back these offers. Here’s where to find them.

She Crushed $20K+ in Credit Card Debt at Age 24
Annika Hudak’s road map included reviewing expenses, using balance transfers and tracking her progress.