Dear Liz: You recently answered a question from someone whose parents misused trust funds intended for their child’s education. I chose to pay the colleges directly each semester once my grandchildren enrolled rather than give money to the parents. I decided that was the only way I could be assured the money went for what […]
Recent Blog Posts
Q&A: Don’t fall for these common Social Security misconceptions
Dear Liz: I decided to start taking Social Security benefits this summer when I turned 62. My monthly benefit is $1,809. My wife turned 62 at the end of last year and started her benefit of $841 a month. I just accepted an unexpected job offer that will pay me more than $130,000 a year. […]
Tuesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Amazon card emails were a mistake, not a hack, says issuer. Also in the news: 5 ways you’re shopping Cyber Monday all wrong, the next 4 weeks will deliver major discounts, and why you should warn your parents about gold and silver coin scams. Amazon Card Emails Were a Mistake, Not a […]
Is it time to switch your college savings plan?
College savings plans are a great way to save for education. But not all college savings plans are great. Most state-sponsored 529 college savings plans, which allow you to invest in a tax-advantaged account for future education costs, have improved significantly in recent years, says Madeline Hume, analyst for multi-asset and alternative strategies at investment […]
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Wipe out credit card debt by setting SMART goals. Also in the news: What the Schwab-TD Ameritrade deal could mean for you, 5 financial tasks you should tackle by year-end, and how to get back on track after an early retirement withdrawal. Wipe Out Credit Card Debt by Setting SMART Goals Tackling […]
Q&A: Finding income for widow and children
Dear Liz: You recently answered a question from someone about Social Security survivor benefits for her grandchildren. The young father who died had been paid under the table, which meant his employment didn’t qualify the children for survivor benefits. It’s a long shot, but perhaps the young man filed his taxes as if he were […]