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: […]
Recent Blog Posts
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 […]
Money mistakes could signal dementia
Some of the early signs of dementia are financial: forgetting to pay bills, for example, or having trouble calculating a tip. People who develop dementia also are more likely to miss credit card payments and have subprime credit scores years before they’re diagnosed, according to a study published last year in medical journal JAMA Internal […]
Tuesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Should your business start accepting cryptocurrency? Also in the news: 5 features to look for in a personal loan, how the labor shortage could benefit your job hunt, and where to stash your down payment if you’re waiting for the housing market to crash. Should Your Business Start Accepting Cryptocurrency? While crypto […]