Dear Liz: I was 21 and my husband was 69 when we got married. He died in 1992 after 13 years of marriage. Our young son and I received survivor benefits for years. I got remarried in 2000 and divorced in 2008. When I reach my full retirement age of 66 years and 8 months, […]
Recent Blog Posts
Q&A: Should you pay down debt with extra cash? It may not be the best plan during a pandemic
Dear Liz: I’m a teacher on an income-based repayment plan for my federal student loans. I don’t qualify for any loan forgiveness programs for teachers because I teach in an affluent area. Right now, interest and payments on federal education loans have been suspended because of the pandemic. I’m trying to decide what to do […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: These savings accounts give you a chance to win cash. Also in the news: How to pull off a month of no spending, how young drivers can steer clear of costly car insurance, and how to find legal advice if you can’t afford a lawyer. These Savings Accounts Give You a Chance […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Hotels turn to elopement package to attract those planning weddings. Also in the news: Ideas for paying off credit card debt, how the pandemic has changed Americans’ financial thinking, and how President Biden’s executive orders will affect your debt. Hotels Turn to Elopement Packages to Attract Those Planning Weddings These deals can […]
Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Unpacking the myths of investing in the stock market. Also in the news: A new episode of the Smart Money podcast on buying cryptocurrency and tackling debt, life insurance companies are becoming more marijuana-friendly, and asking for reconsideration after being denied a credit card. Unpacking the Myths of Investing in the Stock […]
How to make budgeting as painless as possible
Budgeting is a pain. But what’s more painful is a bill you can’t easily pay, debt that costs a fortune or not having enough money to retire. Fortunately, you can have a useful, working budget without watching every penny. Automation, technology and a few simple guidelines can keep you on track. In my latest for […]