Thursday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: What adding 100 points to your credit score means for your finances. Also in the news: How to finance your dream home improvement projects, how your boss can help you reduce your student loan repayment timeline, and why you should be treating your income like you do your investments. What Adding 100 […]

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How Much Debt Is Too Much?

If you think the answer is simple, you may not understand the question. That’s often true in life, but particularly so when we’re talking about debt. Simplistic, one-size-fits-all answers actually suit relatively few real people. At one extreme are those who curse debt as a four-letter word and vow to avoid it entirely. At the […]

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Wednesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: Why personal loans with no credit checks are a very bad idea. Also in the news: What business expenses are tax-deductible, free apps to track your spending, and when it makes sense to hire a tax preparer. Personal Loans With No Credit Check: A Very Bad Idea If it seems too good […]

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Tuesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: What you need to look for in a tax professional. Also in the news: Banks made $11 billion dollars in overdraft fees in 2015, strategies for starting out with student debt, and how to balance saving for college and retirement. What to Look for in a Tax Professional Finding the right person […]

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Monday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: How to build an emergency fund. Also in the news: Social Security mistakes to avoid, the best way to save for a down payment on a home, and what happens when your 401(k) gets too big? How to Build an Emergency Fund Creating a financial buffer. Don’t Make These 3 Social Security […]

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Q&A: Auto loan GAP coverage

Dear Liz: In 2012, I financed a 2008 Honda at my credit union. The car was priced at $16,500. With a trade-in, the loan came to $22,000. GAP coverage was factored into the loan payments, which were $464 a month. Last year, the car was wrecked and deemed a total loss by the insurance company. […]

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Q&A: Loaning money to family

Dear Liz: My cousin borrowed some money from us because he said they were behind on their house payments. It was only a small amount, but we said we wanted to sit down with him and his wife to discuss this. He agreed to meet with us in the evening of the day he received […]

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Q&A: Taking Social Security early

Dear Liz: My wife will be 62 in November and does not work. I am 55 and have a 401(k) for our retirement. I know you preach waiting to take Social Security. But what about if my wife takes it early and we invest all of the money? Would it then make sense to take […]

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Friday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: What kids can learn about money by having a savings account. Also in the news: A guide to debt management, the easiest way to cut your 2015 tax bill, and how Uncle Sam is trying to help you save. What a Savings Account Can Teach Your Child About Money Good money habits […]

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Thursday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: How to tackle private student loans. Also in the news: Re-evaluating your life insurance needs, a potentially embarrassing new way to pay with a credit card, and ten retirement saving strategies you should know about. 3 Ways to Tackle Private Student Loans A whole different set of rules. Re-Evaluating Your Life Insurance […]

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