Ask Liz Weston

Tuesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: Understanding the closing cost for a home seller. Also in the news: How being neighborly can save you money, what homeowners ready to sell need to know about the changing market, and how increased China tariffs might cost you money. What Are the Closing Costs for a Home Seller? Closing costs can […]

Retirement experts frequently recommend working longer if you haven’t saved enough. But you may not realize just how powerful a little extra work can be. Researchers who compared the relative returns of working longer versus saving more last year reached some startling findings. In my latest for the Associated Press, how working just a few […]

Monday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: 8 ways to keep your travel credit cards working for you. Also in the news: Baby steps can get your credit life rolling, how one-way flights could be just the ticket when booking with miles, and 6 things to know about student loans before you start school. 8 Ways to Keep Your […]

Selling mom’s house may require an appraisal first

Dear Liz: My mother recently passed away. The title to her home was held in the family trust. My siblings and I are in the process of clearing out the house in preparation for a sale. Do we need to obtain a “step-up” basis appraisal before the sale to use in determining capital gain on […]

Friday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: 8 ways to keep your travel credit card working for you. Also in the news: How being neighborly can save you money, why new federal student loans are getting cheaper, and to save more for retirement, add this to your budget. 8 Ways to Keep Your Travel Credit Card Working for You […]

Thursday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: Is better credit worth exposing your banking data? Also in the news: The average 401(k) balance by age, 8 common and costly homebuying myths, and why debt collectors may soon be able to text you. Is Better Credit Worth Exposing Your Bank Data? Other ways to build credit. The average 401(k) balance […]

Wednesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: When can I retire? Also in the news: How to get your own royal family photos at commoner prices, how to make the most of your HSA, and how living in one of these cities means you could pay your student debt off sooner. When Can I Retire? How to determine the […]

Tuesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: 6 things to know about the Uber IPO. Also in the news: How one woman ditched 80K of debt in two years, how pet insurance can be your wallet’s best friend, and switching bank accounts for the rewards. 6 Things to Know About the Uber IPO What potential investors should know. How […]

Is better credit worth exposing your bank data?

America’s credit bureaus haven’t exactly covered themselves in glory when it comes to protecting your private data. So you might well be skeptical about two new credit-enhancing products that require not just credit information but also access to your bank accounts. In my latest for the Associated Press, why the boost in your score might […]

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