Gwen Merz was fresh out of college in 2014, working an information technology job she hated, when she decided early retirement was the answer. She socked away every dollar she could, saving as much as 70% of her income so that she could quit when she was 35. Now 30, Merz thinks she may have […]
Recent Blog Posts
Tuesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: 4 small-business innovations that will outlast the pandemic. Also in the news: Banking tools that can help boost savings while paying off debt, preparing for an intense wildfire season in the western United States, and the best kind of car to buy in this inflated market. 4 Small-Business Innovations That Will Outlast […]
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: The pros and cons of selling your home to an iBuyer. Also in the news: A new episode of the Smart Money podcast on travel insurance and buying an electric car, 5 pandemic credit card habits to carry forward, and preparing your wedding budget for the reception resurgence. Pros and Cons of […]
Q&A: When to claim Social Security
Dear Liz: The common assumption seems to be that, in most cases, it’s a good idea to delay collecting Social Security because the longer you wait, the higher your monthly benefits will be. I will reach my full retirement age of 66 years and 2 months in July. According to the Social Security Administration website, […]
Q&A: This $1 house deal comes with elder care responsibility. It could get complicated
Dear Liz: My father-in-law died recently. My mother-in-law is not well enough to live alone. My husband has a brother and a sister who would like my husband and me to buy my in-laws’ big, old home for $1, take care of my mother-in-law 24/7, and make 60 years’ worth of updates and repairs to […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: What to do if you save too much for retirement. Also in the news: The ins and outs of starting a car, financial pros are hanging on to stocks, and why you need multiple savings accounts. What to Do If You Save Too Much for Retirement Saving too much for retirement can […]