New laws, lenders boost access to affordable small loans. Also in the news: 5 ways to prepare for better interest rates in savings accounts, why 2022 is the year of all-inclusive travel, and for meat-free meal options, a U.S. airline hits the spot. New Laws, Lenders Boost Access to Affordable Small Loans New laws have […]
Recent Blog Posts
How to make more green at your next yard sale
A successful yard sale involves hours of preparation and plenty of hard work. So does an unsuccessful sale. I’ve had both kinds and can confidently say the version that makes money is better. In my latest for the Associated Press, tips culled from experts (and bitter experience) for having a good sale.
Monday’s need-to-know business news
Today’s top story: Interest rates on new federal student loans going up for 2022-2023. Also in the news: A new episode of the Smart Money podcast on yard sales and refinancing, what to do if you can’t afford car insurance, and how to find a savings account bonus. Smart Money Podcast: Fruitful Yard Sale, and […]
Q&A: This retiree’s tax preparer allowed IRS fines to accumulate for 15 years. Now what?
Dear Liz: I have a question about an unethical accountant. I am a retiree living on my investments. My accountant continually put me on extension and every October told me how much to pay. Finally, I created an account with the state tax agency and discovered I was being billed for interest, fees and penalties […]
Q&A: Reducing taxes in retirement
Dear Liz: It appears required minimum distributions will force me to take an additional $3,500 per month from my retirement funds starting in four years at age 72. This added taxable draw will greatly impact my income tax liabilities as I’m now fully retired. Are there any strategies at this time to reduce the hit? […]
Q&A: Digital is safer than paper
Dear Liz: You’ve advocated for going paperless. My preference for paper financial documentation over electronic versions is that paper provides “proof” in the event something compromises online or email reporting. What am I missing? Answer: Proof of what, exactly? That’s not a rhetorical question. If you don’t understand why you’re retaining a document, and what […]