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 […]
Recent Blog Posts
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 […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to buy your kid a good credit score. Also in the news: What keeps us awake at night, what low-income families lose by not having bank accounts, and finance lessons Baby Boomers could learn from Millennials. How to Buy Your Kid a Good Credit Score for $200 Starting them off on […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to save for 2017 and 2057 at the same time. Also in the news: What new prepaid debit card rules mean for you, life insurance strategies for families with special needs children, and the high cost of using an ATM. How to Save for 2017 and 2057 at the Same Time […]
Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to tell if your 401(k) is a dud. Also in the news: How to find unclaimed property, great tax deductions for retirees, and how to sneak more savings into your budget. How To Tell If Your 401(k) Is a Dud Reviving your retirement fund. Are You Owed Money From a Forgotten […]