Dear Liz: I am 64 and happily, gratefully receiving early Social Security benefits. My wife is 59, and when she turns 62 she will get half of my $1,650 monthly benefit. My question, though, is this: If she starts getting half of my benefit at 62, can she later switch to her own benefit? If […]
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Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: The easy solution to our retirement savings crisis. Also in the news: How to supercharge your retirement savings, how long credit flaws will stay on your report, and why it’s time to start saving for the holidays. Our Retirement Savings Crisis—and the Easy Solution A slight bump in savings rates could be […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Be on the lookout for deceptive balance transfer options. Also in the news: How to retire without a large nest egg, how to work less as you approach retirement, and how to raise a financially savvy teenager. Credit Card Companies Warned of Deceptive Balance Transfer Offers If it looks too good to […]
Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Home Depot is latest retailer to suffer a major data breach. Also in the news: How to organize your finances based on your personality type, which banks are the best and the worst with checking account fees, and three tips that could help you pay off your mortgage early. Home Depot Data […]
Tuesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Building credit with a small income. Also in the news: The best time to buy virtually anything, how to make sure you can afford your next vacation, and demystifying credit card inquiries. How to build credit if you have a small income Strategic spending can build your credit. The Best Months to […]
Q&A: How to calculate your estimated quarterly taxes
Dear Liz: I recently retired and started my own consulting business, which is doing very well. My question is on taxes. I have been told that I must pay quarterly taxes, but I have no idea if I will make $10 this month or $10,000. How do I estimate my income if I have no […]