Dear Liz: Would it make sense to pay off a low-balance, refinanced mortgage at 3% using a portion of my wife’s 401(k)? Would that not be better than paying the mortgage off from my IRA? I am 70 and on Social Security. My wife still works, at least till her birthday in December. She will then […]
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This week’s money news
This week’s top story: Student loan ‘financial hardship’ forgiveness. In other news: What $20 gets you at gas stations in each state, holiday airfare is down, and when it pays to know your credit card’s interest rate. Student Loan ‘Financial Hardship’ Forgiveness: New Details Revealed If you face persistent medical bills, family caregiving costs or other financial […]
Q&A: Timing on Social Security survivor benefits depends on dependents
Dear Liz: My husband and I were married for 23 years before his passing in 2009. I am now 58 and have been told that I can only receive survivor’s benefits at the age of 60. However, an earlier question from a woman stated she and her son received benefits when her husband passed after 13 […]
Q&A: For estate executors, unpaid medical bills can be daunting
Dear Liz: My wife is in the process of being named executor for her late sister’s estate. There are several medical bills, including some that have been sold to collection agencies. Our understanding is that any negotiations or settlements should be done with those agencies as opposed to the original medical organization. Is this correct in […]
Q&A: After creating a living trust, don’t forget to review it
Dear Liz: My husband and I created a living trust about six years ago. How often do we need to review it with an attorney if we’ve had no major life changes? Answer: You’re already overdue. The standard advice is to have your attorney review your trust every three to five years or after major life events, […]
Q&A: Skipping Medicare drug coverage now can mean paying more later when you do sign up
Dear Liz: I did not enroll in Part D prescription coverage when I enrolled in Medicare in 2005 because I was not taking any prescriptions at the time. When I enrolled a few years later, I was penalized $11 per month for late enrollment and I must pay this penalty until I die. What is the […]