Dear Liz: Our grandson’s stellar high school performance and his family financial situation were such that he was admitted to his state university with grants sufficient to pay all school fees, including room and board, with no loans or work-study. His grandmother and I have a 529 account in his name that has enough money […]
Recent Blog Posts
Q&A: Prioritizing your financial goals
Dear Liz: How do you prioritize financial goals on a small salary? I am 24 and a college graduate with about $40,000 in student loan debt. Because I work full-time at a nonprofit educational organization, about half of my loans qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, so I currently only pay the monthly […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: The dangerous trap of online payday loans. Also in the news: How to erase your credit card late fees, the best way to ask for a raise, and how to survive financially when needing time off from work. Consumers Warned About Pitfalls of Online Payday Loans An immediate solution can cause long […]
News you can use for retirement
Reuters news service has posted its “Retirement Roadmap 2014,” a collection of good advice on topics that don’t get as much attention as they should. My favorite of the bunch is Beth Pinsker’s piece on choosing a rehab facility after surgery, either for yourself or a parent. It’s not a sexy topic, but if you’ve […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to boost your credit score by rearranging your debt. Also in the news: Why borrowing from your 401(k) is a bad idea, how long you need to keep your tax records, and you still have time to cut this year’s tax bill. Can Rearranging My Debt Boost My Credit Score? Playing […]
Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to help a family member buy a house. Also in the news: Personal finance mythbusting, easy ways for retirees to cut spending, and how to get good financial advice for free. The Right Way to Help a Family Member Buy a Home Making the process easier for both of you. Why […]