Today’s top story: What life is like when you default on your student loans. Also in the news: How to get the most from selling your old cell phone, five financial questions everyone needs to know the answers to, and how having no credit score can make life difficult. 3 Grads Reveal What It’s Really […]
Recent Blog Posts
Q&A: Co-pays and collections
Dear Liz: My primary care physician referred me to a gynecologist for a medical issue. I called the office three times and asked that the appointment be made as an annual exam. During the appointment, the doctor was rude and critical of my body and lifestyle. (I am obese.) I left the appointment in tears […]
Q&A: Social Security spousal benefits and divorce
Dear Liz: My former husband is 11 years older than I, and we were married for 15 years. I am 54 and have not remarried. When I turn 62, can I claim a spousal benefit based on his Social Security record because he’s already reached full retirement? Or do I have to be at my […]
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How some of your back-to-school expenses could be tax deductible. Also in the news: Paying taxes on free credit monitoring, money saving tips for when you’re earning minimum wage, and ten financial vocabulary terms you absolutely need to know. Some Back-to-School Expenses Could Be Tax-Deductible Back-to-school expenses could be a little less […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: The increase in identity theft makes checking your credit an absolute necessity. Also in the news: How to prepare your college freshman for financial realities, how to pay off your debt for good, and five ways small businesses can get the most out of their credit cards. Another Reason You Really Need […]
The minus side of PLUS loans
Parent education loans can help your child attend the college of her dreams — and sink any dreams you had of ever retiring. The grim reality is that the federal PLUS loan program allows parents to borrow far more than they can comfortably, or even ever, repay. In my column for Reuters, I explain why […]