Dear Liz: If my spouse takes spousal benefits from Social Security before his full retirement age, does that ultimately affect the survivor benefits he could receive? Answer: As covered in previous columns, applying for spousal benefits before his full retirement age of 66 or 67 will lock him into a diminished check and preclude him […]
Recent Blog Posts
Q&A: Using a separate credit card for online purchases and automatic payments
Dear Liz: I saw your recent column from the couple upset about the inconvenience of having to reset the automatic payments when their credit card was reissued due to fraud. We had the same problem (our credit card has been reissued six times now!) and got some great advice I’d like to share. We got […]
Tuesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: The big security threats headed our way in the new year. Also in the news: How to beef up your savings, what millennials should discuss before marriage, and tips on managing your credit cards in the new year. The Big Scams & Security Threats to Watch Out for in 2015 If you […]
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to give yourself a gift without breaking your holiday budget. Also in the news: What you need to ask before buying a winter home, the big tax changes ahead for 2015, and how to avoid going into debt with your first credit card. How to Treat Yourself Without Breaking Your Christmas […]
Q&A: Talking money before marriage
Dear Liz: My daughter is getting married in September. She recently confided that she and her fiance have never discussed their respective debts (if any), credit scores or financial goals. She is hesitant to bring this up with him but realizes it’s a discussion that needs to happen before they marry. I suggested they consider […]
Q&A: Windfall Elimination Provision followup
Dear Liz: In a recent column, I believe you got one aspect of Social Security’s Windfall Elimination Provision wrong. If you’re affected by WEP, in no case can you get more than 90% of your Social Security benefit. It is a sliding scale. With 20 years of earnings under Social Security, you get 40%. It […]