Most of the rest of the world has adopted more secure chip-and-PIN credit cards–which can cause some problems for Americans traveling overseas. When we were in Italy two years ago, we found our old-school magnetic-stripe cards wouldn’t work in automated kiosks. That included our British Airways card, which had a chip, but no PIN. Without […]
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Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How the habits of early retirees could lead you to retirement. Also in the news: Things to consider when saving for a mortgage, easing financial worries with smartphone apps, and what to do when your friends are big spenders. 5 Essential Habits of Early Retirees Retire early by picking up these habits. […]
You may not be as smart as you think you are
Most people are better off delaying the start of their Social Security benefits as long as possible. That’s the consensus of the AARP, financial planners and researchers who have studied the thousands of different claiming options. In fact, the benefits of putting off Social Security have grown in recent years, thanks to low interest rates, […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Finding the best tax software. Also in the news: The cost of the marriage tax penalty, how to convince your spouse to stop spending, and the hidden costs of buying a home. Which Tax Software Is Best for You? Which program best serves your tax needs? How Much the Marriage Tax Penalty […]
Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to build credit at any age. Also in the news: The best length of time for car loans, getting the most from store reward programs, and what heirs need to know about reverse mortgages. Am I Too Old to Build Credit? No. Never. Should you take on a six-year car loan? […]
Advisors to women: Don’t quit
Women with young children often discover that child care costs eat up much of what they earn. If they’re married to a big earner in a high tax bracket, they could lose most of the rest of their wages to high marginal tax rates. But advising them to quit working is short sighted, two Certified […]