Believing that fraud can’t happen to us — because we’re too smart, logical or informed — may make us more vulnerable. Successful scam artists skillfully overcome our defenses and get us into emotional states that override logical thinking, says Kathy Stokes, AARP’s director of fraud prevention programs. “Scammers call it getting the victim under the […]
Recent Blog Posts
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How credit unions fit in your financial life. Also in the news: How to recover from being rejected for a personal loan, 5 simple ways to get out of credit card debt faster, and 9 ways to teach kids about money. How Credit Unions Fit in Your Financial Life More personal banking. […]
Q&A: Be strategic when closing credit accounts
Dear Liz: I recently moved to a new state and would like to open a credit card at my new credit union. I’m concerned that closing my old credit union account and card will hurt my credit scores, which are over 800. The old card, which I no longer use, has a high credit limit. […]
Q&A: Divorced spousal benefits
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 […]
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 […]