Federal regulators just smacked the student loan servicer formerly known as Sallie Mae with a lawsuit accusing it of all kinds of bad behavior. This is a big deal, since the company, now called Navient, handles billions of dollars of loan payments for about one out of four borrowers. The New York Times said the […]
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Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: What happens when you can’t repay a payday loan. Also in the news: How to upgrade your old car with new-car tech, why women may face retirement shortfalls despite the closing pay gap, and the biggest complaints about 401(k)s. When You Can’t Repay a Payday Loan Preparing for the consequences. 5 Ways […]
Tuesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to prepare financially for your death regardless of your age. Also in the news: The best industries for starting a business in 2017, how insurance companies use your driving record as a crystal ball, and 5 practical steps for creating a retirement backup plan. How to Prepare Financially for Your Death […]
Retirement advice from retired financial experts
Most retirement advice has a flaw: It’s being given by people who haven’t yet retired. So I asked money experts who have quit the 9-to-5 for their best advice on how to prepare for retirement. In my latest for the Associated Press, what the experts say you can do to prepare yourself both financially and […]
Q&A: When a new spouse brings surprise debt to the marriage
Dear Liz: I’m 58 and got married for the first time almost two years ago. I discovered my wife has several incredibly large outstanding student loans, including a parent Plus loan for her son’s education that she thought was in deferment and that has nearly doubled to well over $100,000. In addition, my wife has […]
Q&A: Federal estate tax exemption
Dear Liz: You mentioned that the federal estate tax exemption limit this year is $5.49 million per person. Can I double that if married? Answer: Essentially, yes. Married couples can double the amount that can be given or bequeathed to heirs tax free. If one spouse doesn’t use up his or her exemption, the surviving […]