Ask Liz Weston

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Recent Blog Posts

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Q&A: More about Medicare choices

Dear Liz: I’ve enjoyed your columns about choices between traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage. I have a terminology question: What is the difference between a Medigap policy and a supplemental one? I have traditional Medicare and a supplemental plan, which covers the deductibles and copayments that Medicare doesn’t cover. According to your article, it seems […]

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Q&A: Two husbands. Which benefit?

Dear Liz: I am 66 and recently widowed after a five-year marriage. I was previously married and divorced after more than 20 years. I paid into Social Security as a professional for 20 years. How do I determine how to file for Social Security benefits? Should I just file for my benefits? Should I wait […]

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Q&A: Debt relief offers aren’t all equal. Is bankruptcy a good option?

Dear Liz: There seems to be an abundance of companies offering debt reduction, debt settlement and debt consolidation programs now. Are there any differences in these programs? Some of these companies offer a program whereby high credit card balances and loans are combined and substantially reduced, and the debtor would make a single payment to […]

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Friday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: 5 car-buying mistakes to avoid in today’s overheated market. Also in the news: PPP is gone but government help for small businesses isn’t, experts make 5 predictions for Black Friday 2021, and how to avoid making this common mistake with your health savings account. 5 Car-Buying Mistakes to Avoid in Today’s Overheated […]

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Thursday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: How the toy shortage could affect your holiday. Also in the news: How to pay for home improvements without equity, 3 free ways to run your business more smoothly, and how to save money like a ‘super saver’. How the Toy Shortage Could Affect Your Holidays Popular toys could be hard to […]