A will allows you to distribute your worldly goods, select a guardian for minor children and name an executor to carry out your wishes. But you should be aware of what a will can’t or shouldn’t do. This is particularly true if you’re drafting your own document without an attorney’s help, since you could unknowingly […]
Recent Blog Posts
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: 6 benefits that could help small businesses keep employees. Also in the news: A new episode of the Smart Money podcast on cryptocurrency and improving credit to buy a house, what to buy (and skip) in November, and 4 ways to sustain savings habits from the pandemic. 6 Benefits That Could Help […]
Q&A: When mortgage shopping, does checking your credit scores lower them?
Dear Liz: We’re trying to refinance a mortgage. All of the mortgage lenders claim that checking our credit scores will not affect the scores. However, that is not true. What gives? The three credit bureaus all list “too many inquiries” and penalize us. Does calling them do any good or make it even worse? Answer: […]
Q&A: Social Security windfall elimination provision
Dear Liz: I was referred to an answer you wrote in 2017 explaining Social Security’s windfall elimination provision. It was the clearest explanation I have seen. I receive a government pension and a reduced Social Security check from the provision and am now fine with how it came to be, thanks to your post. Answer: […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How money mistakes could signal dementia risks. Also in the news: How to bank when you can’t get to one, will tax bills increase as home values soar, and why tax diversification is a smart investment strategy. Money Mistakes Could Signal Dementia Risk Missing bills could mean it’s time to build financial […]
Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Why a home warranty may not give you the fix you crave. Also in the news: 4 reasons to spend your points and miles ASAP, why the best travel plan for this holiday season is a backup plan, and how to spot fake IRS letters. Why a Home Warranty May Not Give […]