The phrase “death cleaning” may sound jarring to unaccustomed ears, but the concept makes sense. It’s about getting rid of excess rather than leaving a mess for your heirs to sort out. “Death cleaning” is the literal translation of the Swedish word dostadning, which means an uncluttering process that begins as people age. It’s popularized […]
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Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Learn the truth about overdraft fees and save money. Also in the news: Beware the Dead Cat Bounce (and other stock market jargon), students breathe easy on the tax bill, and what will be more (and less) expensive in 2018. Learn the Truth About Overdraft Fees — and Save Money Looking at […]
Tuesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: 6 ways the tax plan could change homeownership. Also in the news: Bad loans lurking under Christmas wrap, checking your state’s unclaimed property list, and robocalls soar to a new record. 6 Ways the Tax Plan Could Change Homeownership Important things to know. Bad Loans Lurk Under ‘Christmas’ Wrap A payday loan […]
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How that new store card could torpedo your credit score. Also in the news: Insuring expensive gifts, the right mortgage to ask, and how to quickly figure out how much spending money you’ll have for the year. That New Store Card Could Torpedo Your Credit Score That immediate discount could cost you […]
Q&A: Retirement can bring some complex tax questions
Dear Liz: I was in the twilight of my career when the Roth became available, and I contributed the maximum for those few years before retirement. After retirement, I dropped to the 15% tax bracket, so I did Roth conversions of my regular IRA to fill out that tax bracket until I was age 70½. […]
Q&A: Roth IRA offers key tax feature
Dear Liz: In an article that ran in my local newspaper, you stated that, “Roths allow you to withdraw the amount you’ve contributed at any time without triggering income taxes or penalties.” I suggest that you review Pub. 590-B, where you will be reminded that, with some exceptions, withdrawals from a Roth IRA within the […]