Dear Liz: We have taken several withdrawals from our home equity line of credit. Now the balance is close to $100,000. It’s the interest-only type. We don’t know how to pay off this amount systematically. Can you help? Answer: As you’ve discovered, it’s not a good idea to pledge your home as collateral when you don’t […]
Recent Blog Posts
Q&A: Getting through to Social Security
Dear Liz: I read your article about checking your Social Security earnings record and benefits. I tried to set up an account with the Social Security Administration to track my retirement benefits (I turn 65 in December). Apparently the Social Security Administration will only text a required security code to a cellphone. I do have a cellphone but […]
Q&A: Free credit score? Be careful
Dear Liz: As a financial planner, I am surprised you pointed someone in the direction of paying for a credit score. Your score can be accessed at several credit sites for free. Why would you want your readers to pay for something they could get free? Answer: As a financial planner, you should understand that “free” is […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Amazon launches a car comparison site. Also in the news: HARP loans get extended through September of 2017, 4 finance apps every college student needs, and what to do if you can’t afford your kids’ school supplies. Amazon Launches Car Comparison Site The online giant gets in the car game. HARP Loan […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to save without using your savings account. Also in the news: Why you should have a separate bank account for your side jobs, the bad side to inactive credit, and how much it really costs to own a dog. 4 Ways to Save Without Your Savings Account Under the mattress doesn’t […]
Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Finding your college savings “magic number.” Also in the news: What to do when your bank isn’t measuring up, what to buy (and skip) over Labor Day weekend, and how teachers are bringing financial literacy into classrooms. Finding Your ‘Magic Number’ for College Savings Coming up with a reasonable estimate. Bank Not […]