How employers help workers save for rainy days

Everyone needs a rainy-day fund — your financial health depends on it. Your employer could help you build one. Many companies offer 401(k)s and other retirement plans, but until recently few had programs to promote short-term savings. That’s starting to change, as employers experiment with matching funds, payroll deductions and other methods to encourage workers […]

Continue reading...

Tuesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: Don’t let holiday shopping sink your credit score. Also in the news: 10 housing and mortgage trends or 2020, money habits that are doing you more harm than good, and the No. 1 job of 2019 pays $140,000 – and its hiring growth has exploded. Don’t Let Holiday Shopping Sink Your Credit […]

Continue reading...

Monday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: Letting go of shame over your debt. Also in the news: How to get the highest credit card welcome bonuses, 3 tax mistakes you’re probably making today, and what to do when debt collectors keep calling for someone else. It’s Time to Let Go of Shame Over Your DebtIt’s counterproductive and does […]

Continue reading...

Q&A: This generous gift has no tax effects

Dear Liz: If I give $15,000 to my grandson, do I report it on my tax return? Is it deductible? Does my grandson report the gift on his tax return and does he owe tax on it? What if three sets of grandparents (parents and stepparents of his parents) do the same? Answer: No, no, […]

Continue reading...

Q&A: Don’t rush to collect Social Security

Dear Liz: I would like you to explain to us retirees why we should delay taking Social Security. I have two tax preparers — and other people — who say delaying is a terrible idea. I’m in my 20th year of collecting Social Security, and I can assure you that people who delay are making […]

Continue reading...

Q&A: Too many credit cards? Protect your credit scores while closing accounts

Dear Liz: Over the years, my husband and I have accumulated a number of credit cards. All have had a zero balance for years. I want to start canceling these cards, but I’m concerned that will hurt our great credit scores. How should I go about this, or should I? Answer: As you probably know, […]

Continue reading...

Friday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: One credit score factor to check twice during the holidays. Also in the news: How to give back without busting your budget, how not to get hustled in the holiday bustle, and the best apps for tracking your credit card rewards. One Credit Score Factor to Check Twice During the Holidays Utilizing […]

Continue reading...

Thursday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: The pros and cons of airline credit cards. Also in the news: How to maximize your points and miles this holiday season, your car crash checklist, and how to maximize the tax benefits that come with medical expenses. Are Airline Credit Cards Worth It? The pros and cons. How to Maximize Your […]

Continue reading...

Wednesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: What to do when your first student loan payment is due. Also in the news: Van life reality check – 7 questions to shape your travels, why you should stop hoarding your credit card points and travel rewards, and how to spend less when you’re moving on short notice. What to Do […]

Continue reading...

Tuesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: ‘Perks’ don’t make the bank – rates do. Also in the news: 3 major ways credit cards have changed in the past decade, 5 money hacks hiding in your wallet, and the 6 worst ways to redeem your credit card rewards. ‘Perks’ Don’t Make the Bank — Rates Do Free ATMs aren’t […]

Continue reading...