Dear Readers: Congress just killed the Social Security strategy known as “claim now, claim more later” that allowed married couples to boost their benefits by tens of thousands of dollars. The changes, which were part of the budget deal signed into law last week, also eliminated the option of getting a lump-sum payout if you […]
Recent Blog Posts
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Steps you should take when you’re 20 years away from retirement. Also in the news: Collecting on a business debt, how to improve your budget, and how to give your investment portfolio a stress test. 8 Steps to Take When You’re 20 Years From Retirement Time is critical. Can a Debt Collector […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: The bills you need to prioritize when you’re short on cash. Also in the news: Divorcing your financial adviser before your spouse, what to do when you get an inheritance, and the potential drawbacks to buying a home with an FHA loan. Prioritize These 5 Bills When You’re Short on Cash Creating […]
The budget deal is a lesson in loopholes for retirees
Even people decades away from retirement should pay close attention to how Congress just ended two lucrative ways of taking Social Security benefits, known jointly as the “claim now, claim more later” strategy. One big lesson: Once claiming methods are seen as benefiting the affluent, they are labeled loopholes, and that puts them on the […]
Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Passing the financial sleep test. Also in the news: How to tell if you have a good 401(k) match, how to tell if a purchase will truly make you happy, and the most tax-friendly states for retirement. Does Your Financial Plan Pass the Sleep Test? Are your finances causing you to lose […]
Tuesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Important financial steps to take before the end of the year. Also in the news: Alternatives to gifting a housing down payments to your kids, making your holiday donations pay off, and how to pay for college without student loans. Critical List: Key Financial Steps to Take Before Year End Tick tock. […]