Dear Liz: I felt your advice about using an inherited IRA to pay off a mortgage was spot on, but I would add one suggestion. The person could use their required minimum distribution (or a little extra) from the inherited IRA each year to pay down the principal on the mortgage. Then they could see […]
Recent Blog Posts
Q&A: Inherited Roth IRA distributions
Dear Liz: You recently answered a question about whether someone should use a Roth IRA to pay off a mortgage. In your answer, you mentioned the requirement to take minimum distributions from the account. One of the huge advantages of a Roth, besides tax-free distributions, is that there are no required minimum withdrawals. Did I […]
Q&A: Why this widow can’t get her late husband’s Social Security benefit
Dear Liz: My husband passed away 10 years ago at age 66. I called then to see if I could collect Social Security, because he was receiving benefits when he died. Our daughter was still a minor, so she was able to collect survivor benefits until she turned 18. I was told I couldn’t collect […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: The silliness of using airline miles to go to Europe. Also in the news: Black Friday is now a season, students who don’t fill out FAFSA are missing out on their share of billions in financial aid, and why you should leave your high-yield savings account alone. The Silliness of Using Airline […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Wake up to the truth about ‘dream schools.’ Also in the news: 4 things to stop doing online immediately, recognizing the signs of financial abuse, and why carrying a balance won’t boost your credit score. Wake Up to the Truth About ‘Dream Schools’ Thinking beyond the elites. Stop Doing These 4 Things […]
Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Understanding the differences between Medicare and Medicaid. Also in the news: How hungry college students can get help, Robinhood takes another shot at cash management accounts, and a new scam that asks for your bank PIN on the phone. Hunger on Campus: How College Students Can Get Help What Is the Difference […]