Americans aren’t terrific at saving for retirement. Many are even worse when it comes to figuring out how much to spend once they get there. An actuary who’s studied the issue for three decades recently proposed a relatively straightforward strategy that can help. In my latest for the Associated Press, how to use this strategy […]
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Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: 7 gifts that help your grad stash more cash. Also in the news: Why rideshare insurance is a must, how credit card issuers pursue wary Millennials, and how to know if you qualify for public service loan forgiveness. 7 Gifts That Help Your Grad Stash More Cash Cool and practical. Why Rideshare […]
Q&A: Their kids are spendthrifts. How do parents protect them with a trust?
Dear Liz: My wife (71) and I (68) have been diligent savers our entire lives. We have accumulated IRA assets of approximately $2 million along with a house and other assets. Our total estate is under $10 million. We have two adult children in their 20s who did not inherit the saving gene. My question […]
Q&A: Managing debt with credit counseling
Dear Liz: I contacted a company to help me resolve my debt. They present themselves as a nonprofit organization and seem to offer a possible solution by reducing the interest rate I’m paying on my credit cards. How do I determine the trustworthiness of this and other such organizations? Answer: If the organization is affiliated […]
Q&A: How Social Security survivor benefits work
Dear Liz: Will my wife, after I’m gone, be able to claim one half of my Social Security benefits because she is the surviving spouse? I am concerned and confused, because her monthly Social Security benefit is much larger than mine. Does that affect this aspect of the available benefit? Answer: If by “gone” you […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Seeking smart, funny – and a credit score above 700. Also in the news: Wellness travel helps you tune up or tune out, what you need to know about investing in IPOs, and a major tax mistake to avoid if you have student loans. Seeking Smart, Funny — and a Credit Score […]