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? […]
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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 […]
How to prioritize debt payments in the pandemic
A singular crisis has led to extraordinary relief options for borrowers. Interest and payments have been paused on federal student loans. Homeowners can request nearly a year of mortgage forbearance. Credit card issuers and other lenders dramatically expanded hardship programs. Still, many Americans say they took on more debt last year because of the pandemic, […]
Tuesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: 3 things to know if you’re new to gig work. Also in the news: How to craft smarter money goals in 2021, the do’s and don’ts of getting and using a paycheck protection program loan, and 5 steps you can take to pay off consumer debt. 3 Things to Know if You’re […]
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How insurance fraud costs you money. Also in the news: A new episode of the Smart Money podcast on lottery winners and what to do with extra COVID cash, how to decide if your first house should be a condo, and how to choose your ACA plan. How Insurance Fraud Costs You […]
Q&A: More about spousal benefits
Dear Liz: You recently wrote that a wife could apply for Social Security at 62 and then switch later to her spousal benefit. I do not believe this is accurate. Once the wife starts drawing, she is committed. Answer: Typically, that’s true. When someone applies for Social Security, their retirement benefit is compared with their […]