The U.S. suicide rate has risen dramatically in recent years, and certified money coach Tammy Lally of Washington, D.C., is convinced money shame is a contributing factor. Lally’s brother died by suicide in 2007 after receiving a foreclosure notice. Shortly afterward, Lally’s mortgage business collapsed in the Great Recession. She says she went from driving […]
Recent Blog Posts
Tuesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Will travel costs change as vaccines roll out? Also in the news: How to pick the right credit card for a major purchase, why your dog needs liability insurance even if they’re perfect, and how to save money by knowing your credit card’s closing date. Will Travel Costs Change as Vaccines Roll […]
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Prepare for COVID medical bills this year. Also in the news: A new episode of the Smart Money podcast on pandemic savings goals and inheritance taxes, how to save on supplies as kids go back to school, and why your dog needs liability insurance. Prepare for COVID Medical Bills This Year Find […]
Q&A: How the pandemic made working with a financial planner easier
Dear Liz: You often recommend in your column to seek the advice of a fee-only financial planner. Where would I find such a financial planner? Our understanding is that a person has to have at least $1 million of savings to invest before a “fee-only” financial planner will consult with you. Can you be more […]
Q&A: House transfer in a trust
Dear Liz: My dad set up a living trust that included his house, which has a mortgage on it. The lender accepted the transfer of the home to the trust. Dad recently passed away so the house should transfer to my sister and myself. Can the lender trigger the due-on-sale clause? Or make me or […]
Q&A: IRA intricacies when one spouse isn’t working
Dear Liz: Due to the pandemic, I did not work during 2020. Can I contribute to a spousal IRA for 2020 since my husband still has an income and will be contributing to his Roth IRA? Does it need to be a separate account from my existing IRAs? Answer: As long as your husband has […]