Financial planners tend to have firm ideas about the most important goals: You should save for retirement, pay off debt and build an emergency fund. Buying a pair of $200 sneakers or an ultra-high definition TV is probably not on that list. But maybe saving for something you really, really want isn’t frivolous. It may […]
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Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: 7 questions to ask before you hire a tax professional. Also in the news: The security of your hotel’s mobile room key, side hustles you can start with no money, and how to pay off student debt while still saving and investing. 7 Questions to Ask Before You Hire a Tax Professional […]
Q&A: Cash gift to daughter shouldn’t trigger fine
Dear Liz: I gave my daughter $30,000 in 2015. I was fined $5,000. Why? I had not talked with another daughter, who does my taxes, so I was not aware that I could give only $14,000. If I had known, I could have given her the money over two years. Why wouldn’t they advise me […]
Q&A: Why setting up a living trust may be wise, especially in California
Dear Liz: Is there a minimum amount of assets required before a revocable living trust is advisable? I am retired but my wife is still working. If we do not include our 401(k) plans, our total liquid assets (my wife’s monthly salary, my monthly Social Security benefit and my pension check) are below $100,000. We […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to make a money resolution that succeeds. Also in the news: Cashless kids’ allowances, 3 things to know about Spotify’s IPO, and why you should prioritize your job’s 401(k) benefits over offers of student loan help. Ask Brianna: How Do I Make a Money Resolution That Succeeds? How to stick with […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Whittle down your debt while having bad credit. Also in the news: 6 secrets from flight crews to stave off jet lag, what to buy every month of the year in 2018, and 3 ways you can better save for retirement. Bad Credit? You Still Have Tools to Whittle Down Debt You […]