Today’s top story: Federal loans are paused until 2021 – should you pay anyway? Also in the news: A new episode of the SmartMoney podcast on pet costs and extreme couponing, what to know about the coronavirus charges on your college bill, and the tough choices renters are facing. Federal Loans Are Paused Until 2021 […]
Recent Blog Posts
Q&A: IRA confusion leads to disappointment
Dear Liz: Many years ago, I read in a personal finance magazine about a mutual fund company that paid $1 million to a customer who had an IRA for 40 years. So I started an IRA at that company in December 1992 and paid $10,000. As of today, that account is worth only $80,000. What […]
Q&A: The benefits of delaying Social Security
Dear Liz: I retired and started collecting Social Security at 62. My husband is currently 68 and plans to retire next year. I called Social Security before I retired and they told me that I could collect Social Security at 62 and when my husband retired, I could collect my own Social Security or half […]
Q&A: Taking out a reverse mortgage may help if coronavirus wipes out your job
Dear Liz: I read with interest the letter from the person who was a tour guide and lost their job due to the virus. I kept reading, expecting you to suggest a reverse mortgage. Are these a bad idea? Answer: Not necessarily. The person in question owned the home with a sibling, and the sibling […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Money moves to help you feel more in control. Also in the news: How to renegotiate your bills to save money, ways for renters to cope in the financial crisis, and how to protect yourself before your federal student loan servicer changes. Feeling Out of Control? These Money Moves Could Help Regain […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to plan holiday travel for maximum flexibility in 2020. Also in the news: The best debt consolidation loans right now, how to work from home like a pro, and how to find homeowners insurance that won’t discriminate against your dog. How to Plan Holiday Travel for Maximum Flexibility in 2020 These […]