Dear Liz: You recently said you don’t need debt to have good credit, but I was told that “credit utilization” — the amount of credit you use compared with your credit limits — is important. Paying off the cards each month means zero balances are reported to the credit bureaus and result in no utilization. […]
Recent Blog Posts
Q&A: Finding a way out from under big medical bills
Dear Liz: I am so lost. I recently became a widow at 52. My husband didn’t have life insurance. I had to grab a job two weeks after he passed. Five months later, I’m sick with late-stage congestive heart failure and can’t work. I’m barely able to pay my mortgage now with Social Security survivor […]
Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Do your kids a favor and pick retirement savings over tuition. Also in the news: 18 of the best Black Friday deals, Navient’s student loan practices are under fire, and how much it costs to have a float in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade. Do Your Kids a Favor: Pick Retirement Savings […]
Tuesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Having the talk about college costs with your teen. Also in the news: How the new tax law affects vacation homes, what to do when an airline loses your bag, and thinking twice before paying for accident forgiveness. Having ‘The Talk’ About College Costs With Your Teen Managing expectations. How the new […]
With money goals, multitasking pays off
Tackling money goals one at a time cost financial literacy expert Barbara O’Neill at least $1 million. That’s how much O’Neill, a distinguished professor at Rutgers University, figures she lost by starting saving for retirement only after she had created an emergency fund, bought a car with cash and purchased a home. “I tell students […]
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Smart ways to rein in holiday spending. Also in the news: Budgeting before Black Friday to prevent costly regrets, why you should check travel prices before Black Friday, and 7 things not to buy on Cyber Monday. Smart Ways to Rein In Holiday Spending Keeping your expenses in check. Budget Before Black […]