Some numbers matter more than others. How much you make is important, for example, but your financial health depends far more on how much you keep. Knowing certain numbers can help you understand how well you’re converting income into wealth, as well as the impact of your spending and tax situation on that process. In […]
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Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: The best credit card tips for January. Also in the news: Less than one month left to shop for Obamacare, how to spend more mindfully in the new year, and what research says about erasing credit card debt. NerdWallet’s Best Credit Card Tips for January 2017 How you can make 2017 better […]
Q&A: These heirs worry their parents aren’t doing enough to minimize estate taxes
Dear Liz: My parents, ages 75 and 76, have established an irrevocable gift trust for my five siblings and me. Wonderful! With the single trust, they have maxed out their lifetime gifting exemption. What else can they do with their other investments to minimize the inevitable estate taxes that will come with their deaths? They […]
Q&A: Social Security benefits for children
Dear Liz: My older brothers-in-law signed up for Social Security benefits at 62 and then suspended their benefits so that their children, who were under 18, could receive 50% of their checks. Is this process still available at age 62 for those with children who are below the age of 18? Answer: In order for […]
Q&A: Advice for an investing newcomer
Dear Liz: I am not versed at all in money matters. I have no clue where to invest or even if I should invest. I have $5,000 squirreled away that I am totally comfortable investing for 12 months because I feel I would have no need for it before then. Can you make a suggestion […]
6 money resolutions you can actually keep
Let’s face the grim truth: Those 10 pounds you want to lose will likely be among your New Year’s resolutions next year, too. If you really want a sense of accomplishment, take care of money tasks that don’t require ongoing discipline and that you typically don’t have to repeat every year. In my latest for […]