Today’s top story: Your 401(k) match may be in jeopardy. Here’s what you should do. Also in the news: What happens to your travel rewards if your airline goes bankrupt, how to upgrade your old car with new tech, and why your student loan Coronavirus forbearance is messing up your credit report. Your 401(k) match […]
Recent Blog Posts
Should you give your kids an equal inheritance?
Your estate plan may be your last words to those you leave behind. If you’re a parent, you should think carefully about the message you’ll be sending. Parents who leave their children unequal inheritances risk fueling family feuds. But strictly equal bequests also can cause resentment if the heirs don’t see the distribution as fair. […]
Tuesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: 5 questions to ask before canceling your travel credit card. Also in the news: Think it’s bad now? Wait until hurricane and fire seasons start, 8 types of credit card relief you can ask for, and tomorrow is the deadline to receive your Coronavirus payment by direct deposit. 5 Questions to Ask […]
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: 5 money goals if you’re still employed during COVID-19. Also in the news: A new episode of the SmartMoney podcast on credit card offers, good reasons to get a personal loan, and how to find companies offering payment relief during the pandemic. 5 Money Goals If You’re Still Employed During COVID-19 Save, […]
Q&A: Spousal benefits go to spouse, not partner
Dear Liz: I’ve been separated from my husband for 50 years but there’s been no legal divorce. If he dies, do I receive his Social Security benefit or does his common-law wife of 20 years? Answer: You do. Social Security recognizes common law marriage if a couple lives in a state that recognizes such unions, […]
Q&A: What to do if an employer messes up your 401(k) coronavirus hardship withdrawal
Dear Liz: I used the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to cash out my 401(k). My ex-employer waived the 10% penalty but withheld 20% for federal taxes. It seems unconscionable to keep $20,000 of my money for at least eight months instead of sending it to me. The law states I have […]