Today’s top story: How to turn unused credit card rewards into holiday gifts. Also in the news: Can college students booted for breaking COVID-19 rules get refunds, when to book your holiday travel, and how to get help from a food pantry. How to Turn Unused Credit Card Rewards Into Holiday Gifts You may be […]
Recent Blog Posts
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to get your parent off the hook for your student loans. Also in the news: A new episode of the Smart Money podcast on open enrollment and HSA vs. HFA, getting a side gig while on unemployment, and 5 financial moves you need to make before the end of 2020 How […]
Q&A: Your prized collection isn’t going to sell itself
Dear Liz: I am in the process of winding down my duties as executor of the estate of a 91-year-old gentleman who, like the reader who wrote to you, had a prized collection. I had repeatedly urged him to dispose of his prized things. I reasoned that because he was retired and had the time, […]
Q&A: His new job won’t hurt future Social Security benefits
Dear Liz: I am 67 and currently receiving a Social Security survivor’s benefit based on my deceased spouse’s work record. At 70, I plan to switch to my own Social Security retirement benefit. I’ve been offered a part-time position with a charity that I’d like to accept. However, I am concerned about how it will […]
Q&A: Refinancing brings tax questions
Dear Liz: I recently refinanced my house and got $9,400 cash back. I also received a $2,400 escrow check from my previous mortgage lender. Is this money taxable? Should I put away a certain percentage of it to pay those taxes? My plan is just to put it back into household repairs (fireplace, painting, etc.). […]
Q: They paid off the mortgage. Then the credit score fell. Can that be right?
Dear Liz: My wife and I recently paid off our mortgage. We have no other debt. Soon after, I received a message from Experian that my FICO score, which has been perfect for quite a while, was reduced by 31 points. What justifies such action, and what do I need to do to bring up […]