Dear Liz: I have spent the majority of the last three decades abroad. Relationships fade away if there is little contact. Such is life. Most of the financial accounts that I have allow me to provide an organization as a beneficiary. But some institutions, like TreasuryDirect, require an actual person to be listed as a […]
Recent Blog Posts
Q&A: Junk fees for online payments
Dear Liz: You recently answered a question about fees for paying bills online. I agree that the $12 fee mentioned is too high but I also know that any platform costs money to maintain. I work for a nonprofit that takes donations and our donors can choose to pay the fee. I doubt regular customers would agree […]
This week’s money news
This week’s top story: The Capital One-Discover Deal and what cardholders can expect. In other news: What the Capital One-Discover deal could mean for bank accounts, The Capital One-Discover deal and Discover student loans, and prepare calling your student loan servicer. If Capital One Buys Discover, What Can Cardholders Expect? Even if the deal is approved, […]
Q&A: College expenses and 529 plans
Dear Liz: You’ve been writing about what to do with leftover money in 529 college savings plans. Our grandchild went to a great state university with low tuition. To manage this ahead of time, we have carefully withdrawn some “excess” funds every year. This must be payable to the beneficiary student. The tax on non-qualified distributions applies only […]
Q&A: Asset allocation requires pro advice
Dear Liz: I need guidance on asset allocation in retirement. I will retire in June at 65. I’m in good health, so I am planning for 30 more years of life, understanding that it could easily be fewer and might be more. I have a robust government pension and a good chunk of retirement savings. Targeting […]
Q&A: How this heir can head off challenges to her mother’s estate
Dear Liz: My mother and her second husband have been married for over 25 years. They are both in their 60s. I am her only child. Mother has created a will in which I am the sole beneficiary. She owns three properties, two of which are here in California and one is abroad. Do I have […]