Here is a helpful rule of thumb for donating to charities this holiday season: Take your time. People waste billions of dollars on inefficient, poorly run or downright fraudulent charities because they do not bother to research where their money is going. And even donations to legitimate causes can be squandered by last-minute, impulsive or […]
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Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to protect your gift cards this holiday season. Also in the news: Getting the most out of your credit cards over the holidays, where to cash a check without paying high fees, and personal finance mythbusting. Why Gift Cards Aren’t As Secure As Your Credit Cards Protecting your presents. How to […]
Tuesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How being behind on your taxes could affect your travel plans. Also in the news: How to determine who you can claim as a dependent, financial steps to take when you’re on your own, and how to avoid costly credit card traps. Haven’t Paid Your Taxes? You May Need to Cancel Your […]
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Smart ways to use credit cards over the holidays. Also in the news: Personal finance tips people wish they’d know when they were younger, how to survive Black Friday, and steps you should take before the next financial crash. 5 Smart Ways to Use Credit Cards During the Holidays Protecting your money […]
Q&A: Cashing mature savings bonds
Dear Liz: I have savings bonds that have achieved full face value. What should I do? Keep them indefinitely or cash them in to fund my Roth account or what? Am I correct that once they have matured, there’s no more money to be made off them? Answer: You are correct. Once savings bonds have […]
Q&A: Social Security survivor’s benefits
Dear Liz: I am 64 and have been divorced over 22 years. My former husband passed away two years ago at the age of 62. Our marriage lasted more than 10 years and neither of us remarried. I went to the local Social Security office after he passed away, but the official there said I […]