Today’s top story: How to live below your means without feeling deprived. Also in the news: How to dodge the drama of family loans, the launch of Apple Pay Cash, and using Social Security benefits to plan your retirement income. How to Live Below Your Means Without Feeling Deprived It doesn’t have to be a […]
Recent Blog Posts
Would a bank payday loan be any safer?
A “safer” payday loan sounds like an oxymoron. Critics have branded these notoriously high-cost loans as debt traps that cause borrowers to go ever deeper in the hole. Thanks to a recent regulatory change, it now may be possible for banks to offer small, short-term loans that could be a lot less dangerous for borrowers. […]
Q&A: How to avoid outliving your retirement savings
Dear Liz: The wife and I are both 65. We both work, with a combined income of $125,000, of which we spend almost all. We have $550,000 in IRAs and $1 million in other investments, plus home equity of about $500,000. We’ll get $3,800 from Social Security if we start next year but plan to […]
Q&A: Authentication apps can help thwart hackers
Dear Liz: I’ve heard that authentication apps are a better way to go than two-factor authentication that texts codes to your cell phone. Can you explain more? Answer: Two-factor authentication adds an additional layer of security to financial, email, social media, cloud storage and other accounts. The first factor is something you know, which is […]
Q&A: Here’s how to find that annual free credit report
Dear Liz: Please tell me the website for the free credit check. At a department store checkout counter, a stranger’s name came up connected to my cellphone number. I think I should check my credit reports, but I don’t want to pay for what I understand I can get free. Answer: It’s entirely possible a […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How ‘free’ credit cards can cost you. Also in the news: Plan, give and spend smart to avoid holiday debt, answers to 5 trick questions from car dealers, and 7 tips on becoming a ‘financial’ caregiver. How ‘Free’ Credit Cards Can Cost You Reading the fine print. Plan, Give and Spend Smart […]