Why “Get scholarships!” is bad advice

We had a great Twitter chat today about preparing financially for college, hosted by Experian. (You’ll find the tweets using #creditchat.) I was distressed, though, that many believe people should look for scholarships as a way to reduce college costs. That’s not how it usually works. If you have financial need, colleges typically deduct the […]

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4 hacks to boost your credit scores–fast

Losing points from your credit scores is all too easy — and getting them back is hard. But if you know how credit scoring works, you can hack the process to rehabilitate your numbers faster. Here are four effective strategies to do just that. (This article first appeared as “4 hacks to boost your credit […]

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Wednesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: How to cut your monthly bills. Also in the news: College savings mistakes, how to survive a late start in saving for retirement, and what everyone needs to know about credit scores. 6 ways to cut your monthly bills Every little bit helps. The Biggest Mistakes People Make Saving For College It’s […]

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Tuesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: Unraveling the mysteries of the FICO score. Also in the news: What you shouldn’t buy with your tax refund, teaching your kids good money habits, and 11 common money mistakes to avoid. How Many FICO Scores Are There? More than you’d think. 5 things not to buy with your tax refund Put […]

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Monday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: The ten things you need to know about credit scores. Also in the news: Five ways to save in managing your money, why passive income is worth more than active income, and six retirement planning rules for single women. 10 Things Everyone Should Know About Credit Scores What you need to know. […]

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Q&A: Shifting Roth IRA Broker Fees

Dear Liz: What can I do to stop my broker from deducting trading fees from my Roth IRA contributions, which I make monthly? Let’s say I invest $420 each month, but the broker takes $7, or $84 a year. Shouldn’t this be payable from a separate source so that I can invest the full contribution […]

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Q&A: Social Security spousal benefits

Dear Liz: I’m 52 and my wife is 57. I recently retired from the military and will have a small retirement from my new job. When should I take Social Security and when should she take hers? Her letter from the Social Security Administration says that based on her work record, she will receive $88 […]

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Q&A: Filing joint tax return while not married

Dear Liz: Is it possible to file a joint tax return if you are not married but have lived together for more than seven years? We’ve owned property together for nine years. Answer: What matters to the IRS is how your state treats your arrangement. Most states don’t recognize common law marriages, in which two […]

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Friday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: The best credit card freebies. Also in the news: Breaking bad money habits, the worst states for retirement, and apps that can save you money while shopping. 8 Credit Cards With Freebies Perks from the get go. 5 Ways to Break Your Bad Money Habits Breaking the cycle. 10 Worst States for […]

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Thursday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: How a good budget can help you build credit. Also in the news: Avoiding financial scams, tips on managing your elderly parent’s money, and five money rules for a successful retirement. How Your Budget Can Help You Build Credit A good budget can help you build a great credit score. 10 Tips […]

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