Dear Liz: I am 53 and Social Security is giving me a hold time for my widow support. What should I do? Answer: The only thing you probably can do is wait. Survivor benefits are normally only available once you turn 60. You can start as early as age 50 if you are disabled or […]
Recent Blog Posts
Q&A: Dementia and financial accounts
Dear Liz: You recently discussed the importance of adding spouses to financial accounts before one of them dies to make it easier for the surviving spouse. I wholeheartedly agree. I would add that this needs to be done sooner rather than later. If one of the spouses is diagnosed with dementia, the bank will likely […]
Q&A: Paying down your mortgage
Dear Liz: You’re not a fan of prepaying student loans in most cases because the extra money sent to lenders is “gone for good” — it’s not like credit cards, where paying down a balance can free up some of the credit line to be used again. But what’s wrong with paying down a primary […]
Q&A: How to find an accountant and a financial planner
Dear Liz: Can you offer advice on finding the right accountant for someone doing taxes for the first time after divorce? My husband always handled this. Also, same question for a financial planner for a newly divorced person? It’s all so overwhelming. Answer: It is, and you’re smart to reach out for help. You might […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to prioritize debt payments in the pandemic. Also in the news: The fairness of airline fees, the influence of 2020 on investing, and how to avoid paying certain car dealership fees. How to Prioritize Debt Payments in the Pandemic The rules have changed. Ask a Travel Nerd: Are Airline Fees Fair? […]
Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: 6 rules for first-time car buyers. Also in the news: Buzzy banking apps for kids and teens, getting your bank accounts in order for 2021, and knowing your COVID mortgage forbearance rights. 6 Rules for First-Time Car Buyers Break it down into an orderly process: budgeting, financing, choosing a car and then […]