Dear Liz: Any suggestions for the best way to catch up with monthly statements from checking accounts? Friends and I need to know: Should we start from the first one we missed or work backward? Answer: With the switch to online banking, many people don’t reconcile their checkbooks anymore. In fact, many don’t use checks, […]
Recent Blog Posts
Q&A: Don’t get creative with mom’s money
Dear Liz: My 91-year-old mother lost her mobile home (and everything else) in a fire. I was able to put her in assisted living and she is actually doing better than when she was by herself. There was insurance money, which is now in a joint account, but considering her age, we have decided not […]
Q&A: Her dead ex’s kids can’t dictate benefits
Dear Liz: My husband and I were living apart but not legally separated when he passed away. He was receiving disability benefits. His children, who are grown, tell me I am not eligible for widow or survivor benefits and that only they can collect his benefits. I am disabled myself and 51. Do their claims […]
Q&A: When your friends seem to have more money than you: Getting over money envy
Dear Liz: I am a 41-year-old man who is married with small children. I have finally reached the point financially where I am meeting or exceeding personal goals for retirement, college savings and reduced monthly expenses. I have a high income. I drive a piece-of-crap car because it’s paid for, but I am still hemorrhaging […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Want a raise in 2021? You may not even need to ask for it. Also in the news: How to be effective with your generosity in 2020, how to prepare for student loan payments to restart in 2021, and what to do if you’re behind on your rent or mortgage. Want a […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to put 2020 financial survivor’s guilt to good use. Also in the news: The best tips for retirement savings at any age, how COVID-19 is accelerating no-exam life insurance, and is the new Visa Bitcoin rewards card worth it? How to Put 2020 Financial Survivor’s Guilt to Good Use Donating time […]