Dear Liz: I understand your suggestion about waiting until you are 70 to apply for Social Security because you’ll get a larger amount. However, I applied at 62 and no matter how much more I would have received at 70, I would never recoup an amount equal to what I received. My husband chose to […]
Recent Blog Posts
Q&A: Capital gains tax
Dear Liz: I am selling my house. After subtracting all selling costs, stepping up the basis for capital improvements over the years, and using the $500,000 capital gains exclusion from the IRS, I will still have a significant capital gains tax due. Does this tax need to be paid via the quarterly estimated tax in […]
Q&A: Should you keep paying Medicare premiums if you’re moving abroad?
Dear Liz: We are thinking of retiring to Paris. What would be the repercussions if we stop paying Medicare premiums? We’re concerned about the possibility of returning to the U.S. at some future date and the costs of reinstating it. Do we just pay back the past due payments plus a penalty? Answer: You wouldn’t […]
3 lessons I wish I’d learned sooner about travel
Almost every trip teaches me something about myself, the world and what not to do next time.In my latest for the Associated Press, three hard-won travel lessons that may help you learn from my mistakes.
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: A special episode of the Smart Money podcast on Queer money talk. Also in the news: How to shop for back-to-school during inflation, renting an EV for a gas-free road trip, and is owner financing ever a good idea? Smart Money Podcast: Queer Money Talk This week’s episode is dedicated to a […]
Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How LGBTQ+ Americans can overcome barriers to building credit. Also in the news: How to protect your vacation budget, the pros and cons of “Travel now, Pay later,” and 58% of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck after inflation spike. How LGBTQ+ Americans Can Overcome Barriers to Building Credit LGBTQ+ people report […]