How much college savings is enough?

Dear Liz: My husband and I have three children, two in elementary school and one in middle school. Through saving and investing, we have amassed enough money to pay for each of them to go to a four-year college. In addition, we have invested 15% of our income every year toward retirement, have six months’ […]

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Career change in midlife requires caution

Dear Liz: I went through divorce three years ago (after 20 years being together). I’m now 41 and broken financially and emotionally. I’m wondering if I should sell my small place and move in with my mother or stay broke and tough it out so I can keep my own place. I work part time, […]

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Friday’s need-to-know money news

The best places to work when you’re over 50, how not to support your kids for the rest of your life and tips on retiring almost tax free. The 50 Best Employers for Boomer Workers The fifty best employers for those over fifty. 5 Methods for Setting Retirement Targets Strategic planning to reach your retirement […]

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Thursday’s need-to-know money news

Protecting your finances while on the road this summer, prioritizing your debt and how to find a job after graduation. The 10 Commandments of Summer Travel Thou shall follow these tips to keep your finances and identity safe this summer. Sizzlin’ Summer Financial Reads Feed your mind while working on your tan. Which to Tackle […]

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Wednesday’s need-to-know money news

The myth of open houses, the credit report you never knew about and how to avoid being squeezed by airlines. The Credit Report You Haven’t Seen Yet How “alternative credit data” could help you get approved at lower rates. Cyber-thieves: More Tips on How to Protect Yourself From Credit Card Theft Protecting you and your […]

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Tuesday’s need-to-know money news

Tips on summer finances, the dangers of excessive mortgages and how not to turn your home into a money pit. How to Save More Money This Month Six ideas to help you get through June without breaking the bank. No, You Shouldn’t Take Out the Largest Mortgage Possible Don’t be tempted by still-low mortgage rates. […]

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Financial infidelity: hidden debts mean you’re lying to your spouse

Dear Liz: I have three credit cards that are in my name only, plus a small loan at my credit union. My husband did not sign for any of these, nor does he know the extent of my debt, which is about $10,000. If I should die before I can get them paid off, will […]

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The best place to get your credit reports, scores

Dear Liz: I want to see all three of my credit reports with scores and fix some things on there that could be in error. What site do you recommend to get all three with scores? Answer: You have a federally mandated right to see your credit reports once a year, and you can access […]

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How to claim SS now, and claim more later

Dear Liz: You recently wrote that people who start Social Security benefits before their full retirement age are locked in and can’t switch to a higher benefit later. You are indeed locked in to that reduced benefit, but by switching to a spousal benefit at age 66, for example, it is possible to receive a […]

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Monday’s need-to-know money news

What to watch out for with credit cards, when you need to pay U.S. taxes and a possible light at the end of the student loan tunnel. How to Stop a Neverending Student Loan Nightmare Could there be a real solution to the student loan crisis? The Case Against Credit Cards: Overspending, Obesity, Inequality Credit […]

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