Today’s top story: The pros and cons of debt consolidation. Also in the news: The basics of travel cancellation refunds and vouchers, cheaper ways to access your credit line, and 5 considerations before becoming a digital nomad. The Pros and Cons of Debt Consolidation Consolidating may be a good idea if you can qualify for […]
Recent Blog Posts
What gig workers need to know about taxes
If you became a gig worker during the pandemic, beware: Your taxes just got more complicated. Gig work — Uber driving, Instacart shopping, Amazon Flex delivery and so on — is on-demand, freelance work that’s typically taxed as self-employment. Instead of having an employer withhold money from your paycheck, you’re an independent contractor who is […]
Tuesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to get your savings resolution back on track. Also in the news: Where to look if your small business can’t get a PPP loan, breaking down the tax implications of PPP loans, and when you might get your $1,400 relief check. Broke Your Savings Resolution? How to Get Back on Track […]
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Discriminatory practices leave Black Americans with less life insurance. Also in the news: How to keep your student loan payment at $0, a new episode of the Smart Money podcast on the lessons learned from Gamestop, and how to protect yourself from gas pump skimmers. Discriminatory Practices Leave Black Americans With Less […]
Q&A: Age minimum for survivor benefits
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 […]
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 […]