If your cell phone works overseas (and not all do), your wireless carrier is happy to sell you an international plan that typically includes a small amount of minutes, texts and data at what feels like a pretty inflated cost. (The cheapest option from AT&T: 120 megabytes of data for $30 a month, $10 for […]
Recent Blog Posts
Q&A: Capital gains and mutual funds
Dear Liz: Your tax expert’s answer to a person who wanted to roll over a $30,000 capital gain on a mutual fund missed an important point. Since the couple were solidly in the 15% tax bracket with a taxable income under $72,000, they should qualify for the 0% federal capital gain tax rate. (They may, […]
Q&A: Social Security and marriage
Dear Liz: Each year, I track my estimated Social Security benefit on the SSA.gov website. At full retirement age of 67, my estimated benefit is $1,504. Is it true that my actual benefit may be reduced by 50% since I am married? Answer: Good heavens, no. If you’re married, your spouse may be entitled to […]
Q&A: Paying down debt without touching home equity
Dear Liz: My wife and I accrued $28,000 of credit card debt over the past eight years. In addition to a sizable student loan bill for law school, our home mortgage and the expenses associated with three young children, we are struggling to get ahead enough to knock our credit card debt down. While we […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: The top personal financial planning websites. Also in the news: The dangers of free Wi-Fi, how to lower your health care costs, and tips on taxes for freelancers. Top 5 Personal Financial Planning Websites Putting it all on virtual paper. Is Free Wi-Fi Dangerous? Free Wi-Fi can end up quite costly. 5 […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to avoid currency exchange fees while traveling. Also in the news: How finances can reveal an unfaithful spouse, howto avoid ruining your retirement plan, and why it’s so important to include your digital assets in your estate planning. 5 money saving tips for exchanging currency How to save on fees during […]