I’m giving away a copy of Donna Freedman’s “Playbook for Tough Times,” and Abigail Perry’s “Frugality for Depressives.” These books have more than a topic in common–Abby is Donna’s daughter. Both books offer great, realistic advice for getting a handle on your money. To enter to win, leave a comment here on my blog (not […]
Recent Blog Posts
Great credit is a powerful tool
Credit scores are a financial tool, but whether they’re a lever or a hammer depends on how good they are. You can leverage great scores into great deals — on loans, credit cards, insurance premiums and cell phone plans. Bad scores can hammer you into missing out or paying more. The lifetime cost of higher […]
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Why minimum payments on credit cards are designed to keep you in debt. Also in the news: Retirement planning rules Millennials can break, how to choose the right health insurance plan “metal tier,” and why it’s so hard to stick to a budget. Credit Card Minimums: Perfectly Calibrated to Keep You in […]
Q&A: What to consider when investing in target date retirement funds
Dear Liz: I have 100% of my 401(k) in a fund called “Target Retirement 2030.” This fund is made of several other funds, so does that qualify as “diversified”? Answer: It does. Target date funds have become increasingly popular in 401(k) plans because they do the heavy lifting for investors. The funds select asset allocations […]
Q&A: Life insurance for people over 65
Dear Liz: Can you give us some direction on how to get good term life insurance when you’re over 65? We had 25-year term policies and the premiums skyrocketed, so we are looking. Will getting a group plan (such as the one offered by AARP) help me? I’ve had two heart valve surgeries and knee […]
Q&A: 30-year versus 15-year mortgage
Dear Liz: Regarding the 57-year-old woman who wanted to refinance to a 15-year mortgage, why didn’t you present the benefits of keeping the low interest and low payments available on a 30-year loan and investing the difference? In 30 years the house would be paid off, but there would also be a pot of cash […]