Dear Liz: I recently retired to a small house I bought 30 years ago. I refinanced four times to get the rate down from 11% to 3.5%. This provided me with a low monthly mortgage (just under $450), but my current 30-year loan won’t be paid off until I’m 92. I’ll be 67 in two […]
Recent Blog Posts
Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Finances for same-sex couples – what to consider before saying ‘I Do.’ Also in the news: Use caution when giving gift cards for grad gifts, how loved ones can destroy your finances, and what airlines owe you for an overbooked flight. Finances for Same-Sex Couples: 7 Things to Consider Before ‘I Do’ […]
Money hacks for real people
Everyone loves a hack — an uncommon solution to a common problem. There’s a reason so much of the internet revolves around things like “This One Little Trick” and “The Secret Doctors Don’t Want You to Know.” Sometimes money hacks evolve from details buried in the fine print. Wealthy people employ professionals who seek out […]
Tuesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to take the heat off your summer budget. Also in the news: How to find out if you’ll owe taxes on an inheritance, 3 things your student loan servicer might not tell you, and what happens to your credit score when you transfer a balance. How to Take the Heat Off […]
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to get a tax deduction for moving. Also in the news: Learning about penny stocks, how to deduct graduate school on your taxes, and how to find and purge unwanted recurring charges. Moving for Work? How to Get a Tax Deduction An unexpected housewarming gift. What Is a Penny Stock? An […]
Q&A: When generosity becomes a taxing issue
Dear Liz: I recently came into some money, and I would like to share it with my family. I understand that there are annual tax caps on how much you can give to someone ($14,000 per person per year). However, does this limit apply only to cash and cash equivalents or also to any other gifts? […]