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 […]
Recent Blog Posts
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 […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to understand and reduce taxes when selling your home. Also in the news: Why you need to learn your parents’ financial plans ASAP, how debt-related stress affects body and mind, and the goods and services that have actually dropped in price this year. How to Understand and Reduce Taxes When Selling […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Are reluctant home sellers too attached to their low rates? Also in the news: Are I bonds a good investment, a new episode of the Smart Money podcast on a travel nerd’s guide to Costa Rica, and the best time to buy cars, appliances, and other things that have been hard hit […]
Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to get travel insurance without paying for it out of pocket. Also in the news: Hotels tap into hot amenity amid surging gas prices, what rising prices could mean for your retirement, and why you should know which financial phase you’re in. You Can Get Travel Insurance Without Paying for It […]