Today’s top story: 4 ways to manage retirement health care costs. Also in the news: 6 ways to budget using your bank account, how to save money with Amazon and Walmart prescription discounts, and how much money you need to live on your own, in each state. 4 Ways to Manage Retirement Health Care Costs […]
Recent Blog Posts
How to negotiate your way to a richer life
Negotiating is an important personal finance skill that can help you earn more and pay less. Whether you’re discussing a job offer, dickering at a car dealership or just trying to work out a budget with your significant other, the ability to bargain effectively can have a huge impact. You don’t have to be a […]
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: 5 ways to rein in impulse spending. Also in the news: A new episode of the Smart Money podcast on lifestyle creep and booking cheap travel, 4 business financial metrics to track performance, and 8 other things your digital wallet can do for you. 5 Ways to Rein In Impulse Spending Get […]
Q&A: About spousal and survivor benefits
Dear Liz: I am 82 and receive $786 from Social Security. My wife is 75 and receives $1,400 from Social Security. I believe you said that a lower beneficiary could get the same amount as the higher beneficiary. When I contacted Social Security, I was informed that my benefit needed to be less than half […]
Q&A: Giving executors account access
Dear Liz: We are trying to leave our affairs in order for our executors. (Pity them. We have accounts and substantial assets in England and Canada as well as the U.S.!) Thinking of some immediate expenses they will have, I’ve documented details of how to access our accounts online (passwords coded in a way that […]
Q&A: How a 529 plan can help with education loans after graduation
Dear Liz: I have a 529 plan for my niece who has now graduated from college. She has student loan debt and would like to use the money left in the 529 account to pay this debt. Is this allowable without incurring penalties? Answer: Yes, up to $10,000. The Setting Every Community Up for Retirement […]