Dear Liz: I never expected to be where I am financially. I work as an independent piano teacher and my present earnings are just enough to get by (which isn’t saying much in Southern California). I was married for 18 years and am now single, with no plans to remarry. After I turn 66 next […]
Recent Blog Posts
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Why the Good Enough home may just be perfect. Also in the news: How to turn your retirement plan into an early-retirement plan, how to mess up a variable annuity, and why it’s important to calculate the cost of college – not just tuition. The ‘Good Enough’ Home May Be Just Perfect […]
Tuesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: 5 simple ways to get out of credit card debt faster. Also in the news: Why you should take a first-time homebuyer class, taxes on micro-investing earnings, and 10 frugal back-to-school shopping tips. 5 Simple Ways to Get Out of Credit Card Debt Faster Becoming debt-free faster. First-Time Home Buyer Class: Why […]
Tuesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How kids influenced by social media push parents to overspend on back-to-school shopping. Also in the news: How one man paid off nearly $120K of debt in 5 years, the number one airline rewards program, and the pros and cons of giving your child a credit card. Back-to-School Shopping: Kids Influenced by […]
How to mess up a variable annuity
Variable annuities are complex insurance products — so complex that what people actually buy and what they think they’re buying may be quite different. Those misunderstandings can end up costing them, or their heirs, a lot of money. For the uninitiated: Variable annuities are insurance company contracts that allow people to invest money in a […]
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Green Dot launches 3% cash back and savings account. Also in the news: Apps that could prompt impromptu spending, how to avoid lifestyle creep, and how to financially plan for having kids. Green Dot Launches 3% Cash Back and Savings Account A new offering from Green Dot. These Types of Apps Could […]