Dear Liz: I need to understand how credit reporting agencies treat personal unsecured loan debt versus credit card debt. I am considering getting a personal loan from a reputable lender to pay down my credit card debt. The amount of my overall debt will still be the same, just in a different category. How will […]
Recent Blog Posts
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to keep your identity secure. Also in the news: Automating your way to wealth, what you need to consider before becoming a co-signer, and what to tell your grandkids about saving for retirement. Keep Your Identity Secure With a Credit Freeze or Fraud Alert Protecting your important assets. How to Automate […]
Social Security’s divorce and survivors benefits for same-sex married couples
Same-sex marriage has been legal long enough in a couple of U.S. states that its pioneers may qualify for Social Security benefits even if they divorce. Marriages that last at least 10 years before they end qualify the participants for both spousal and survivor benefits from Social Security. Spousal benefits equal up to half the […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Why you cannot afford to become complacent about money. Also in the news:The financial steps you need to take after your spouse dies, how to get into a money-saving mindset, and why getting your debt in order is essential for a good retirement. 5 Ways Complacency Can Cost You Serious Money The […]
Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: What you need to know about divorce and credit. Also in the news: Things that surprisingly don’t affect your credit, back-to-school shopping hacks, and what to consider when deciding whether to sell your house or rent. Help! I’m Getting Divorced. How Do We Split Our Credit? What you need to know about […]
Tuesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: The money moves you need to make at the midyear point. Also in the news: Life events that require financial planning, common credit score killers, and why you should always read the fine print when choosing a checking account. Your Midyear Guide to Managing Your Money Moves you need to make now. […]