Dear Liz: I am 63 and retired but have not started to collect my Social Security. My husband will be 67 in March. He started his Social Security at 62. Our plan is to wait until I am 70 to start my benefit, which would make my monthly amount significantly larger than his. If I […]
Recent Blog Posts
Q&A: Long-term capital gains tax
Dear Liz: I’m very confused about the long-term capital gains tax. Several years ago, I bought a house for $525,000 in Texas. I’ve been thinking about selling, and my real estate agent informed me that my home is now worth $1.5 million. I am a disabled veteran and have no tax liability because my income […]
Q&A: Paying off student loan
Dear Liz: am going to pay off one of my daughter’s private student loans. One has a balance of $8,500 at 4% interest and the other is for $7,500 at 6%. Which one should I pay off? Answer: You have a lucky daughter, either way. In addition to balances and rates, the other variable you […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Key factors to look for when evaluating your 401(k) plan. Also in the news: Banks turn to lottery-type prizes to get you to save, how to maximize your HSA in 2016, and how your student loan debt could threaten your retirement. 3 Key Factors When Evaluating Your 401(k) Plan Finding a plan […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Your FAFSA just became a bit shorter. Also in the news: How to determine how much house you can afford, eight surprising things that are taxable, and a new job perk that could pay off your student loans. Renewal FAFSA: Why It’s Easier and Why You Should Complete It Now The clock […]
Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to keep calm and carry on in a volatile market. Also in the news: Why paying off your debt could hurt your mortgage chances, what the Super Bowl can teach you about money, and how your 2015 IRA contribution can hurt 2016-2017 college aid. 5 Ways to Keep Calm, Carry On […]