I just got another recorded call from a woman who cheerfully told me that my student loans had been “flagged” to qualify for a new federal program, just approved by Congress, to help me pay my debt. The fact that I’ve never had a student loan is, surely, just a minor detail. People fall for […]
Recent Blog Posts
Tuesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: The mystery database that can sink your mortgage. Also in the news: The changes in store for your credit cards, cash flow killers, and cutting costs at the pump just in time for summer travel. The Little-Known Database That Can Sink Your Mortgage Getting to know CAIVRS. 4 Ways That Credit Cards […]
Q&A: Budgeting for new college grads
Dear Liz: My son will be graduating from college this June. He is fortunate to have already landed a good job, starting in August, and will be managing his own finances for the first time. His company provides a full benefits package, retirement fund, profit-sharing, a hiring bonus and all that good stuff. I’d like […]
Q&A: Thrift Savings Plan
Dear Liz: I turned 50 last year but did not make the catch-up contributions I was eligible to make to my government Thrift Savings Plan. This mistake cost me approximately $5,000 in additional taxes in 2014. To make matters worse, my wife also did not make catch-up contributions in 2014 or for the previous four […]
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to protect your credit cards while traveling. Also in the news: New reverse mortgage rules, why you shouldn’t put off home repairs, and how Health Savings Accounts can benefit your taxes. 5 Ways to Keep Your Credit Cards Safe When You Travel Don’t let credit card theft ruin your summer travel. […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to increase you credit card limit. Also in the news: The money mistakes empty nesters make, the terms every homebuyer should know, and the biggest threats to your retirement. 5 Ways to Get a Higher Credit Card Limit What to do when you need more spending power. 3 Money Mistakes Empty […]