Dear Liz: My son is 52 and has been unemployed for three years. He has been forced to withdraw money from his 401(k) and pay early withdrawal penalties on it to pay his mortgage and other bills. Is there such a thing as a hardship exception to avoid this tax bill? Answer: There’s a way […]
Recent Blog Posts
Why you want an emergency fund
Dear Liz: I regularly read about people in your column who don’t feel the need for an emergency fund, or think they only need a small one. This is one of the many issues that makes me glad that my husband takes care of the finances. We are both professionals with graduate degrees who, for […]
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Savings experts reveal ways you save money. Also in the news: How to manage your debt as you get older, how to avoid medical identity theft, and what to do when you’re addicted to credit cards. Financial Expert Reveals Three ‘Super Savings Solutions’ Everyday ways you can save money. Too Old to […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Security tips from a former identity thief. Also in the news: What to teach teen about debt, tax mistakes you don’t know you’re making, and tips on retiring early. 4 Security Tips From a Former Fraudster Advice on how to protect yourself from guys like him. 4 Things Your Teen Needs to […]
Get free credit monitoring for a year
Target’s offering free credit monitoring as penance for its recent massive database breaches. To get it, navigate to https://creditmonitoring.target.com and fill in your email address and name. Within a day or two, you should get an activation code that allows you to sign up for one-bureau monitoring at Experian. Now, Experian’s a for-profit company, so […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Five pieces of personal finance advice from those in the know. Also in the news: Renting with bad credit, how to raise cash in an emergency, and when to admit your finances are out of control. 5 Pieces of Personal Finance Advice From Successful People Listening to the experts. How to Rent […]