Dear Liz: I am 61 and going through a second divorce. Would I be able to start drawing my first husband’s Social Security now or would I have to wait till I am 62 later this year? Also, could I draw off my second husband’s work record, since he made more money? Which would benefit […]
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Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Five signs of impending financial doom. Also in the news: Spring cleaning your finances, the risks of automatic bill pay, and why you should keep a burner email account. 5 Signs You’re Financially Overextended Your finances could be heading for disaster. 7 tips for financial spring cleaning Time to clean the dust […]
Lies, damn lies and press releases
A recent press release from an “identity theft protection company” was so filled with misinformation, I had to double-check make sure it wasn’t April Fool’s Day. Here’s what it said: The Federal Trade Commission believes ID Fraud will be a significant issue during this tax season. Many people will consider freezing their credit report if […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to pass a financial stress test. Also in the news: How smart parents teach their kids about money, the worst money mistakes made by Millennials, and what to do if your homeowner’s insurance claim is denied. 5 Tips For Passing a Financial Stress Test How would you do? 7 Ways Smart […]
Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to perform a debt autopsy. Also in the news: How to choose between leasing and financing a new vehicle, spring break travel tips, and how to tell if a credit card has a good interest rate. If You Really Want to Kill Off Your Debt, Do a Debt Autopsy Not nearly […]
Q&A: Social Security survivor benefits
Dear Liz: I earned more than my wife, who died at age 57 after 18 years of marriage. When I turn 60, can I take survivor Social Security benefits based on her work record and then request my benefit at age 70? Answer: In a word, yes, and doing so may be smart. Survivor benefits […]