Dear Liz: I am currently receiving a spousal benefit from Social Security that’s equal to 50% of my husband’s benefit. My husband and I applied when we were 66 years old in 2015. I do not think my own benefit will be higher than the spousal benefit I am currently receiving when I turn 70 […]
Recent Blog Posts
Q&A:Closing credit accounts
Dear Liz: I paid off and closed two large home equity lines of credit in April, but these HELOCs still appear on my credit report. The lender says they reported the transactions to the credit reporting agencies “immediately” and that the delay in having them removed is the credit bureaus’ fault. Are they right? What […]
Q&A: How to keep a loan to family from turning into a problem
Dear Liz: My husband and I have saved close to $2 million. He is 58, and I am 59. Our son is a hardworking, bright young man awaiting responses to medical school applications. My husband wants to loan him $200,000 to $500,000 to reduce his debt from interest on loans. I want to help too, […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to outsmart smartphone scammers. Also in the news: 5 military budgeting tips, states that will pay you to work there, and just how worried you should be about a possible recession. How to Outsmart Smartphone Scammers Protecting areas of vulnerability. 5 Military Budgeting Tips Important considerations for active military. Get Paid […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to qualify for first-time home buyer benefits. Also in the news: The best investments you can make right now, how to bypass ATM fees while you’re on the road, and how financial therapy might help you get to the root of your money problems. First-Time Home Buyer Benefits: How to Qualify […]
Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: 5 cheaper alternatives to popular vacation spots. Also in the news: How credit unions fit in your financial life, how to prepare for an economic downturn, and the fee the IRS is waiving for more than 400,000 filers. 5 Cheaper Alternatives to Popular Vacation Spots Save some money while still having a […]