Health care bills are about to become far less threatening to the financial well-being of millions of Americans. The three major credit bureaus are erasing most medical debts from people’s credit reports, and the Biden administration is reducing or eliminating medical debt as a factor in government lending decisions. In my latest for the Associated […]
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Tuesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: 7 things Medicare doesn’t cover. Also in the news: A new episode of the Smart Money podcast on the cost of eggs, where small businesses are feeling inflation most, and the No. 1 hotel amenity people love might surprise you. 7 Things Medicare Doesn’t Cover From dental cleanings to overseas health care, […]
Q&A: How contribution rules differ for IRA and 401(k) accounts
Dear Liz: I recently changed jobs. Typically I max out my 401(k) contributions each year. I contributed $20,700 to my previous company’s plan before quitting. Eligibility for my new company’s 401(k) doesn’t kick in until after 12 months of continuous employment, so I won’t be able to access this benefit until 2023. Can I set […]
Q&A: Mortgage payoff or emergency savings?
Dear Liz: My husband was laid off recently, and he quickly took a new job with a 25% pay cut to continue insurance benefits and the same retirement program. We regularly pay $500 to $1,300 extra on our house payment. We cannot keep that up. However, with his severance package and vacation day payout, we […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Using credit card points at checkout has become too easy. Also in the news: Why summer jobs are good for the teenage wallet, how to maximize your music festival savings, and how long it’ll really take you to save for a down payment. Using Credit Card Points at Checkout Has Become Too […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to afford your meds and support your health. Also in the news: A new episode of the Smart Money podcast on reducing child care costs, what the S&P bear market means for you, and why you might want to hold off traveling until September. How to Afford Your Meds and Support […]