Losing a job late in life can be devastating, and rebuilding can be tough. Here’s how writer Teresa Mears puts it: Americans in their 50s and 60s, who expected to be at the peak of their careers before retirement, are finding themselves playing catch-up. While they may never get back the lives they had before, […]
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Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Happy New Year! Today’s top story: How to start 2014 on the right financial foot. Also in the news: A millennial’s guide to personal finance, ways to cut taxes while saving for retirement, and apps that will help you reach your financial goals for the new year. 7 Tips to Get Your New Year’s Money […]
3 steps to less money stress in 2014
If you’re stressing about holiday bills and other year-end expenses, the following suggestions might help you have a better 2014: Try a no-spend month. The first time I led a “no spend” experiment at MSN nearly a decade ago, readers reported saving hundreds of dollars. But the bigger benefit was their increased awareness at how […]
Tuesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: The scary statistics of identity theft. Also in the news: A money checklist for 2014, financial resolutions for the new year, and what will cost more in ’14. These Identity Theft Statistics Are Even Scarier Than You’d Expect Don’t become a statistic. Your New Year Money Checklist Preparing your money for the […]
Putting off retirement savings is an expensive mistake
Dear Liz: I have about $16,000 in student loans at 6.8% interest. At the current monthly payment it would take me about 7.5 years to pay them off. I contribute 10% of my income to my company’s Roth 401(k) plan (my employer matches the first 6% contributed). I also contribute 3% to the stock purchasing […]
Uncle Sam can help with education costs
Dear Liz: I have rental property, own my home outright, am contributing to a 401(k) and have a pension, so finances are not a big issue. I do have an adult son in law school and would like to know the most fiscally prudent way to pay for it. Are there limits on gifts, and […]