Today’s top story: Tips for appealing s denied health insurance claim. Also in the news: A new episode of the Smart Money podcast on pet insurance and tax refunds, learning about your money in small steps, and big expenses you could face in retirement. Tips for Appealing a Denied Health Insurance Claim You have some […]
Recent Blog Posts
Q&A: How to figure your capital gains tax bite so the IRS doesn’t zap you
Dear Liz: We had big capital gains this year, and we owe taxes plus a penalty for not paying estimated taxes. Is there a way to plan ahead for taxes since every year is different regarding gains or losses? I know one option is to just pay estimated taxes quarterly based on the previous year’s […]
Q&A: When institutions won’t go paperless
Dear Liz: I have for years insisted on being paperless, not only for credit card statements and utility bills but also for tax documents such as the 1099-INT and 1099-DIV. My problem is that I receive income from two lifetime annuities and those of course generate 1099-R forms each year, which are mailed to me. […]
Q&A: Sorting out trust confusion
Dear Liz: In a recent column you wrote of bypass trusts that “for many people this estate planning tool has outlived its usefulness.” In California, a trust avoids probate. Isn’t avoiding probate a reason to continue with a trust? Answer: What you’re referring to is a living trust — a revocable (which means changeable) trust […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: 5 things to ask before opening an account at a neobank. Also in the news: Don’t go broke attending weddings, the questions you’ll be asked when applying for a credit card, and 13 places you can legally stream TV for free. 5 Things to Ask Before Opening an Account at a Neobank […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: 3 tasks for new retirees that will pay off later. Also in the news: Credit card interest vs. buy now, pay later, forget the fed, pay off your credit card debt, and cities where it’s cheaper to buy than rent. 3 Tasks for New Retirees That Will Pay Off Later Taking care […]