Dear Liz: I’m wondering why, in your answer about whether to use a will or a living trust, you didn’t mention that probate can be avoided by using beneficiaries for assets such as mutual funds and brokerage accounts and now, in many states, homes. This seems quite relevant to the question and the gist of […]
Recent Blog Posts
Q&A: When a living trust can save money
Dear Liz: Here’s another advantage to a living trust. If the person owns real estate in more than one jurisdiction and just uses a will, there will be a probate in the resident jurisdiction and ancillary probates the other location or locations, with the attendant time, costs and delays — all of which could be […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Know your rights if the IRS breaks the rules. Also in the news: How to avoid an early withdrawal penalty on a CD, could Amazon Go change the way we shop, and how much community college students save by state. Know Your Rights if the IRS Breaks the Rules You can fight […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: 5 ways to boost your chances of a mortgage preapproval. Also in the news: How to get free tax help from a human being, introducing Mom and Dad to mobile banking, and the most expensive mistakes we made for love. 5 Ways to Boost Your Chances of a Mortgage Preapproval Increasing your […]
Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: The student loan tip that saves you money year after year. Also in the news: Overlooked small business tax deductions, when you need a cashier’s check and how to get one, and why Americans are drastically under-saved for retirement. This Student Loan Tip Saves You Money Year After Year It’s all about […]
How to put more in working-class pockets
The American working class lost a shocking amount of wealth in recent decades as wages stagnated. Despite campaign promises, making up that lost ground will be no easy feat. Creating more well-paying jobs would help, but that could take years. Tax cuts could mean bigger paychecks for higher earners but won’t immediately help the many […]