Friday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: How to make your retirement savings last. Also in the news: Why it pays to file your FAFSA early, how to survive rising health care costs, and how the Rule of 72 can help you build your retirement savings. The Easy Way to Make Your Retirement Savings Last Stretching your savings. It […]

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Thursday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: How to get your bank to fix a credit card error. Also in the news: How to overcome money anxiety, 12 odd tax deductions that could save you money, and a new government crackdown on aggressive debt collectors. How Do I Get My Bank to Fix a Credit Card Error? Be prepared […]

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Three reasons not to simplify your financial life

January seems to beg for fresh starts, organizing binges and articles about simplifying your life. In some ways, though, a little complexity is a good thing. Of course, paring and consolidating your financial accounts, for example, can help you better track your money. You may find it easier to coordinate your investments, save on account […]

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Wednesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: What your credit score doesn’t say about your finances. Also in the news: Putting yourself on a money diet, financial lessons to master before 40, and what to do if you actually win tonight’s Powerball jackpot. 4 Things Your Credit Score Doesn’t Say About You What isn’t revealed. How to Put Yourself […]

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Tuesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: The most important number in your financial life. Also in the news: How to get the most from a balance transfer credit card, how to build up your emergency fund, and how to audit your financial products. The 5 Most Important Numbers in Your Financial Life The numbers you need to know. […]

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Monday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: How to put an end to credit card solicitations. Also in the news: How a two checking account system could help automate your budget, how to maximize your pension, and five surprising sources of debt. How to Stop Credit Card Solicitations for Good Reclaiming your mailbox. Use the Two Checking Account System […]

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Q&A: Social Security and marriage

Dear Liz: My partner is 69 and receives about $800 monthly from Social Security. I am 66 and receive about $1,100 from Social Security. We are not married but have been living as such for the past 10 years. We own our home together. Does it make sense financially for us to marry? Answer: When […]

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Q&A: Invest or pay down mortgage?

Dear Liz: I usually finish the month with $1,000 to $2,000 left over after expenses to invest. My savings are with a money manager who has conservatively invested in a diversified portfolio. Given the uncertainty of the market, does it make any sense for me to start using that monthly excess to pay down the […]

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Q&A: Using Roth IRA earnings for a first-time home purchase

Dear Liz: My 29-year-old son recently married, and as a gift I pledged $20,000 as a down payment on a house. My daughter-in-law is beginning a career as a registered nurse and I know they will not be buying for a few years. Is there any type of account that will grow tax-free or tax-deferred […]

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Friday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: How to tackle your holiday debt. Also in the news: Saving time on your FAFSA, how to deal with debt before retirement, and the best financial tips that can fit on an index card. Pay Off Your Holiday Bills in This Order Tackling your holiday debt. 5 Hacks to Save Time on […]

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