Dear Liz: You recently mentioned the windfall elimination provision that affects pensions from jobs that don’t pay into Social Security. I’m wondering what those jobs are. Are they just part of the gig economy, or is there some other category of jobs that don’t pay into Social Security? Answer: Gig economy jobs are supposed to […]
Recent Blog Posts
Q&A: What is the capital gains tax, and how big a bite does it take?
Dear Liz: We own stocks with enormous capital gains — as in, six figures or more. The tax would be a lot. Any advice on how to limit the tax bite? Our income consists of Social Security and a teacher’s pension. Answer: Capital gains taxes may be less of a problem than you fear. If […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: This year, resolve to leave no gift card unused. Also in the news: A new episode of the Smart Money podcast on saving for your dream retirement, how to have the wedding you want for less, and comparing car insurance rates. This Year, Resolve to Leave No Gift Card Unused Most gift […]
Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Here’s which airline rewards program gives the most value. Also in the news: The most valuable hotel rewards program in 2022, 5 steps to strengthen your finances, and despite higher wages, inflation gave the average worker a 2.4% pay cut last year. Here’s Which Airline Rewards Program Gives the Most Value Alaska, […]
Tuesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Crushing student loan debt prompts parents to consider postponing their retirement. Also in the news: Who should and shouldn’t consider using a personal loan to pay off holiday debt, the number one insurance claim filed by homeowners in the winter, and will employees be able to travel more this year? Crushing student […]
This year, resolve to leave no gift card unused
Years ago, a friend who needed cash sold me a $100 Nordstrom gift card. I wish I knew where the heck I put it. Gift cards are a popular holiday solution, especially recently, as supply chain disruptions and shipping delays have made gift buying more challenging. Most gift cards are spent within a year, but […]