Dear Liz: I’m a middle-aged, single, childless woman who won a very nice lottery prize. I took the “cash value” option and after paying federal tax, I was left with $1.2 million. I would like to pay cash for a home, have a tidy nest egg put aside and have money for travel and other […]
Recent Blog Posts
Q&A: Clash over the state of their mother’s estate
Dear Liz: My husband’s mother passed away in January. His younger sister was executor of the estate. His mother had investments of close to $1 million prior to 2008. She supposedly lost half her investments with the downturn. When she passed away, my husband’s sister said that there was nothing left in the estate. What […]
Q&A: Co-signing a grandchild’s student loan
Dear Liz: My granddaughter, who will graduate college in a year, has asked me to co-sign her third private loan, which will bring her total debt to $30,000. She needs three people to co-sign. Her parents and the other grandparents have agreed and she wants me to be the third party. I love my granddaughter […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Protecting your kids and your data while playing Pokemon GO. Also in the news: Bankruptcy means test, the hidden student loan cost no one talks about, and what to do when you’ve been dumped by your bank. Pokémon Go: How to Keep Your Kids and Your Data Safe Gotta catch ’em all! […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Scams to watch out for. Also in the news: Understanding Social Security spousal benefits after divorce, fixing a critical 401(k) flaw, and new airline luggage fees. Scams Called ‘Worst’ of Consumers’ Top 10 Complaints Don’t fall for them. Divorce Doesn’t Preclude Social Security Spousal Benefits Understanding the complicated rules. How fix a […]
Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Timing is everything when it comes to Social Security benefits. Also in the news: How Wi-Fi calling can save you money, a quiz to test your money smarts, and four concepts that’ll help you master your money. For Social Security Benefits, Timing Is Key Picking the right time. What Wi-Fi Calling Is […]