Today’s top story: Why you should validate a debt before paying a collector. Also in the news: How to choose a Medicare Advantage plan, how and when to report tips for tax purposes, and how people survived their financial nightmares. Validate Debt Before Paying a Collector, Avoid Costly Errors Make sure the debt is legitimate. […]
Recent Blog Posts
A president can’t fix your finances
Presidential candidates always promise economic improvements that are beyond their power to deliver. Any measures that actually could create more jobs, raise wages or lower tax burdens require the cooperation of Congress or business cycles or both. Even if a president could lead us to the promised land of rising incomes and wealth, we wouldn’t […]
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Why Halloween is the number 1 day for free candy and property damage. Also in the news: Retirement planning, reverse mortgages, and jobs to consider if you’re looking for a pay increase. Halloween Is No. 1 Day for Free Candy — and Property Crime Protecting yourself while still having fun. Your retirement […]
Q&A: How to pursue money owed to heirs
Dear Liz: My stepmother passed away in December 2006, and her executor, who was her financial planner, distributed the estate according to her trust. A while after this, I discovered that she had a life insurance policy that hadn’t been addressed. The executor pursued this and found that $80,000 was due to the three primary […]
Q&A: Getting out of a bad car loan can be tricky
Dear Liz: My car payment is $465 a month with a 22% interest rate. I need to get out of this car and into a lower car payment. My credit is poor. What is the best solution to go about this? Answer: There are a number of solutions, most of which probably won’t work for […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: What retailers don’t want you to know about Black Friday. Also in the news: What to know about tax breaks for disabled individuals, how managing your money is like losing weight, and three retirement tips your not thinking about. 4 Things Retailers Don’t Want You to Know About Black Friday You might […]