The best way to pay a financial planner is directly through fees you pay, rather than indirectly through commissions. That way, you don’t have to worry that the advice you’re getting is influenced by how much your advisor stands to gain by selling you certain investments. But most fee-only planners have adopted the “assets under […]
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Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Starbucks is the latest hacker’s delight. Also in the news: Getting control over your spending, advice that could ruin your retirement, and money fears that could sabotage your net worth. Reports: Hackers Targeting Starbucks Mobile Users How to protect your caffeine fix. 3 Tips for Getting Control Over Your Spending Reining it […]
Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: The right way to close a credit card. Also in the news: Financial tools you no longer need, determining how much college tuition you can afford, and how baby boomers can survive retirement. What’s the Right Way to Close a Credit Card? How you say goodbye matters. 5 Financial Tools You No […]
Tuesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to negotiate your medical bills. Also in the news: How to file a financial aid appeal, gifts to set graduates off on the right financial foot, and ways to maximize Social Security benefits. 7 Tips for Negotiating Medical Bills You don’t have to pay $7.00 for that aspirin. How To File […]
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Understanding the difference between a credit card and a charge card. Also in the news: Why using a credit card for financial emergencies isn’t always a good idea, the fees of 13 major airlines, and why you shouldn’t trust most retirement calculators. What’s the Difference Between a Charge Card & a Credit […]
Q&A: Social Security benefits and divorce
Dear Liz: You’ve been answering questions about ex-spouses and Social Security benefits. My first marriage was longer than 10 years, and I was the primary earner. My ex remarried but later divorced again. Does his getting remarried nullify his claims forevermore — or is his ability to claim spousal benefits based on my income back […]