Dear Liz: I hold power of attorney for my aunt, who is in a local nursing home. Medicaid pays the bulk of her cost to stay there. Her $1,200 stimulus check was just deposited into her bank account at the end of last month. The state Medicaid rules require that she not have more than […]
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Q&A: Big debt is bad in the coronavirus downturn. But a consolidation loan might not be the answer
Dear Liz: I have about $40,000 in credit card debt and am considering a consolidation loan. I’m current with my cards. My income is about $130,000 per year. Can you recommend a lender? Any cautions? Answer: As you probably know, this is a bad time to be burdened with a lot of debt. But taking […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to work around delays in major IRS functions. Also in the news: A path to getting your getting your camp deposit back, student loan interest rate dropping to historic lows, how to choose your next credit card. How to Work Around Delays in Major IRS Functions Services have been dialed back. […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Should you leave your kids an equal inheritance? Also in the news: The Points Nerd on who we can trust about travel safety, a student loan expert takes her own advice, and how to apply for a credit card when you don’t have a credit score. Should You Leave Your Kids an […]
Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
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 […]
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. […]