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 […]
Recent Blog Posts
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 […]
Tuesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Changes to the credit report dispute process are on the way. Also in the news: What to do with your tax refund, things you should consider as you approach retirement, and the biggest tax law changes you need to know about. Your Biggest Credit Report Complaint May Be Getting Fixed Changes in […]
Big changes afoot for credit bureaus and your scores
Credit bureaus will have to hold off on reporting delinquent medical bills and supply actual human beings to review disputes under an agreement announced today with New York’s attorney general. The Wall Street Journal reported that the agreement, to be announced later today, will change how credit bureaus operate nationally. Bureaus will have to wait […]
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: The right card to get when you’re looking to build or rebuild your credit. Also in the news: How to cut your monthly expenses, what you need to know about renter’s insurance, and the habits of successful early retirees. 5 Credit Cards to Help You Build Credit Cards that can help you […]
Q&A: Balancing savings vehicles and tax benefits
Dear Liz: I’m 26 and make $45,000 per year. I currently have about $60,000 saved with no debt. Roughly half of my assets are in retirement accounts, and the other half are in non-retirement accounts. I strive to save 30% of my income (about 15% in pre-tax retirement accounts and 15% in taxable accounts). I […]