Today’s top story: Americans are confused over credit card fees and rewards. Also in the news: Using refinancing to pay for home renovations, taking one day a month to be your personal finance day, and how to protect your credit score. Americans Confused Over Credit Card Fees, Rewards Cardholders are paying extra, losing out on […]
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Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Why getting pre-approved for a mortgage is important if you live in these cities. Also in the news: How couples can master the financial balancing act, overcoming income shocks, and how 529 plans can now be used for college supplies. Get Preapproved for a Mortgage — Especially if You Live in These […]
Q&A: Defaults on a co-signed student loan
Dear readers: A recent column about private student loans prompted financial aid expert Mark Kantrowitz to reach out with some additional advice for people who co-signed student loans for someone who has stopped paying. Although private student loans don’t have the same rehabilitation options as federal student loans, Kantrowitz encourages anyone in this situation to […]
Q&A: Divorced survivor benefits
Dear Liz: After death, do ex-spousal Social Security benefits continue? Answer: Any checks you’re getting from Social Security are supposed to stop when you die. But you’re probably asking what happens after the death of your ex-spouse. The good news is that you would be eligible for divorced survivor benefits. Instead of receiving a check […]
Q&A: Retirement calculators are a wake-up call for undersavers
Dear Liz: Are retirement calculators a hoax? It seems that the published estimates for the amount of savings required are insanely high. If most U.S. citizens haven’t saved much and have a decent standard of living in retirement, where is the misperception? Let’s say an individual is resolved to choose hospice over intensive care — […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Companies that help you repay or avoid student loans. Also in the news: Solutions to your retirement fund shortfall, debunking Social Security myths, and why Walmart is suing Visa. 6 Companies That Help You Repay or Avoid Student Loans Alternative options. 10 Solutions to Your Retirement Fund Shortfall There’s still time to […]