Think about how difficult it was to clean a house 100 years ago, or make a phone call, or travel across the country. Tasks that were routine then — like, say, beating a rug to clean it — have all but disappeared. Likewise, technology has obliterated or automated a lot of the money tasks that […]
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Tuesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: What to know about credit counseling for bankruptcy. Also in the news: What to do when your ATM spits out counterfeit money, how your state department of insurance can be of assistance, and what to look out for when donating to Hurricane Matthew victims. What to Know About Credit Counseling for Bankruptcy […]
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Costly financial fees you might not know you’re paying. Also in the news: Why Millennials love auto leasing, ten smart money moves that take ten minutes or less, and why nearly 7 in 10 Americans have less than $1,000 in savings. Costly Financial Fees You Might Not Know You’re Paying A closer […]
Q&A: How to build a cushion against all those pesky expenses
Dear Liz: We’re both retired and live on retirement checks. When expenses exceed our income, we draw from savings, but the balance is going down fast due to a new air conditioning unit, real estate taxes, etc. How do we put that money back and build a cushion in the checking account so our savings […]
Q&A: Parents paying a child’s private student loans
Dear Liz: My husband and I are paying my youngest son’s private student loans. My husband is paying two loans and I’m paying three. I have plans to retire next year. Should I tell the lenders after I retire and give my loans to my son to take over? Answer: If these are private student […]
Q&A: The insecurity of bank security questions
Dear Liz: I recently opened an account at a bank that boasted “multi-factor authentication,” but I looked into the claim and it turns out the bank is using passwords plus answers to security questions, such as the name of your first pet, as the “multi-factor authentication.” I expect you know that the real multi-factors are […]