Dear Liz: I have a mutual fund and a Roth IRA that are actively managed by a broker. The accounts have not done well. I would like to withdraw them from the broker and reinvest them on my own. How do I safely and securely withdraw them from the broker? What paperwork and fees should I expect? Answer: Look […]
Recent Blog Posts
7 saving strategies you may not have tried yet
With the holiday shopping season just starting and prices of many consumer goods continuing to rise, saving money can seem impossible. But those financial pressures also make doing so even more important. “Saving is your margin,” says Eric Maldonado, a certified financial planner and owner of Aquila Wealth Advisors. “When things happen — your car […]
This week’s money news
This week’s top story: The home and auto insurance crisis and how to keep your coverage. In other news: 5 options if you’re crushed by student loan and credit card debt, why Delta’s elite status changes matter, and 8 Latino financial influencers to follow in 2023. The Home and Auto Insurance Crisis and How to Keep […]
Q&A: How to tap an unused 529 college savings plan without getting taxed
Dear Liz: I opened a 529 college savings plan for our son and over the years it grew. My son was fortunate to receive a full-ride academic scholarship and therefore much of the money stayed in the plan. Recently my son became a new father to my first grandchild. I know that it is permissible to give five […]
Q&A: Death and document retention
Dear Liz: After a spouse’s death, I am wondering if there is some guidance on how long to keep items such as a driver’s license, Social Security card, Medicare and health plan card, passport, veteran’s information and so on. I haven’t seen this addressed in your column. Answer: Guidance about what to keep and discard after a […]
Why retirees may want to buy an immediate annuity now
An immediate annuity is an insurance product that provides guaranteed income: You give an insurer a chunk of money, and the company gives you a stream of payments that can last for life. The payments begin within 12 months of purchase. Now may be a good time for retirees to buy an immediate annuity, since […]