Today’s top story: Do you really need a million dollar life insurance policy? Also in the news: A new episode of the Smart Money podcast on stock market shakiness, DIY vs Calling a Pro, and everything you need to know about your next side hustle. Do I Really Need a Million-Dollar Life Insurance Policy? You […]
Recent Blog Posts
Q&A: Plan for taxes after mortgage payoff
Dear Liz: In a recent column, you answered a question from a couple who just paid off their mortgage. You suggested increasing retirement or emergency savings or possibly charitable contributions. All good, but you should have pointed out that the mortgage lender will not be responsible for paying the property tax and fire insurance going […]
Q&A: Social Security is insurance
Dear Liz: My wife died in March 2020. I receive nothing from her Social Security (other than $255) and will receive only a portion of mine due to the windfall elimination provision. Is there anything I can do since I am receiving none of what she paid into Social Security and only a fraction of […]
Q&A: Trusts and wills aren’t the same thing. Here’s how they work
Dear Liz: I understand what happens with a living trust when both spouses die at once. But what happens when just one dies? Is the trust tossed out, since the surviving spouse is usually the trustee? What about the stuff that the deceased wanted to go to his or her kids? And what about the […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to get what you want at your next job. Also in the news: Medicare to offer free at home COVID-19 tests in early spring, how your parents’ debt could outlive them, and what you need to know before you claim your child tax credit this season. How to Get What You […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How your parents’ debt could outlive them. Also in the news: 7 Black financial influencers to follow in 2022, what rising interest rates mean for personal loans, and just how passive js passive income? How Your Parents’ Debt Could Outlive Them When you can and can’t be held personally responsible. 7 Black […]