Dear Liz: Two years ago I got out of prison after being there for nine years. I lost everything that I had. When I got out, my credit rating was 565. I recently bought a car and have made four payments so far. Can you tell me when I might have good credit again? Answer: […]
Recent Blog Posts
Q&A: IRA distributions and the tax man
Dear Liz: I am 79, in fairly good health and fortunately have almost $600,000 in my IRA account. My minimum required distribution is currently about $30,000 a year, which means my IRA funds will last until I am well over 100! I realize that I can pay a penalty and draw down some of the […]
Q&A: Where to find financial planner fiduciary oath
Dear Liz: You often mention that a financial planner should be “willing to sign a fiduciary oath to put your interests first.” Is there a form or formatted letter available to financial planners who are willing to sign said oath? Answer: There is. The Committee for the Fiduciary Standard, a group that promotes the idea […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: What you can learn from the tax hike on Super Bowl players. Also in the news: 3 tactics to tame your credit card debt worries, could Bitcoin be the next legendary investment bubble, and six mistakes people make when hiring a financial advisor. Super Bowl Players’ Tax Hike May Have a Lesson […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: What to do if the new tax law changes your paycheck. Also in the news: The smartest way to use gift cards, giving up your brick-and-mortar bank, and smart money moves for Black Americans in financial distress. What to Do If the New Tax Law Changes Your Paycheck What to look out […]
Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: What a travel agent can do for you that a search engine can’t. Also in the news: How one couple paid off over $200,000 in debt, 6 ways to weed out shady schools, and why your credit score may not be as good as you think it is. What a Travel Agent […]