Many families struggle to pay college expenses for one or two kids. Certified financial planner Sarah Carlson, mother of two sets of twins, will soon have all four of her children in college at the same time. The older twins are already there, to be joined soon by the younger two. But years ago, Carlson […]
Recent Blog Posts
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: 5 good times to shop for almost anything. Also in the news: How one woman ditched $36K of debt, how to nag new coworkers to save for retirement, and saving on airline booking fees by buying your ticket at the airport. 5 Good Times to Shop for Almost Anything Spend a holiday […]
Q&A: Escaping California’s tax auditors is tough even after leaving the state
Dear Liz: My husband and I will be trying out several different areas after the sale of our Los Angeles area house, which will be some time this summer. What happens if we end up renting in three different states? I’m under the impression that we need to be able to prove that we resided […]
Q&A: Limiting your rate shopping window
Dear Liz: We’re planning to refinance our mortgage and are concerned about generating multiple credit inquiries which would lower our excellent credit scores. Is there some kind of licensed, bonded ethical middle-agent who could get just one official credit report from each of the three bureaus and then send it to all the lenders I […]
Tuesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Dodge dealership dread with online used car sellers. Also in the news: What first-time home buyers should know about fixer-uppers, how to save for the future when it’s uncertain, and how long it takes for paid debt to be reported to credit bureaus. Dodge Dealership Dread With Online Used Car Sellers Car […]
How to nag new coworkers to save for retirement
he most important thing you can say to a new hire may well be: “Have you signed up for the 401(k) yet?” An astounding 3 out of 10 workers don’t know whether their employers offer retirement plans, according to a survey by research firm Morning Consult for the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards. “That […]