Dear Liz: I am 64, single and planning to retire in two years. I have saved enough to pay off my $100,000 mortgage. It will take the bulk of my savings but I have no other debts. I will have a pension and Social Security. I also have a credit score over 800. Should I […]
Recent Blog Posts
Q&A: Figuring the tax toll for an inherited house
Dear Liz: I inherited my home when my husband died. If I sell this house now at a current market value of around $900,000, what will be the basis of the capital gains tax? I think at the time of my husband’s death, the house’s market value was $400,000. Answer: Based on your phrasing, we’ll […]
Q&A: Self insurance brings risk
Dear Liz: A letter writer in your column says that “self insurance,” or going without health insurance, “certainly reinforces healthy lifestyle choices.” My husband made all of those “right” choices for more than 60 years, which was absolutely no protection against being diagnosed with brain cancer. Your penny-pinching correspondent might currently be running marathons or […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Why traditional credit scores still matter. Also in the news: Staying ahead of travel scams, banks still playing with financial fire, and the benefits to maxing out your retirement contributions early in the year. Newfangled Data Aside, Credit Scores Still Matter Those 3 numbers still reign supreme. Stay a Step Ahead of […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: 3 credit score myths you should stop believing. Also in the news: Vinyl siding costs and how to keep them down, 6 big ways credit can affect your life, and 1 in 3 parents will help their kids pay off student loans. 3 Credit Score Myths You Should Stop Believing It’s all […]
Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: 5 steps to change homeowners insurance paid through escrow. Also in the news: Getting by on the average retirement income, TSA-Approved ways to cut the airport screening lines, and how to tell if your company’s 401(k) plan is any good. 5 Steps to Change Homeowners Insurance Paid Through Escrow Seamless transition. Could […]