Thanksgiving is so late this year that I’ve been drifting along in a lovely bubble of denial. Even my Jewish friends’ preparations for Hanukkah haven’t been enough to alert me that Christmas isn’t far off. Today a TV crew from a local Chinese-language stopped by to record some tips for enjoying the holidays without creating […]
Recent Blog Posts
Wednesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How to avoid charity scams. Also in the news: Money lessons from retirees, money-saving tips for travelers, and how a grandparents’ gift for college could ruin a student’s financial aid. 4 Ways to Avoid Charity Scams Protecting your empathy from being preyed upon. 5 Financial Lessons from Retirees Voices of experience. 3 […]
Tuesday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Saving money while expecting a baby. Also in the news: How to finance your closing costs, teaching your kids about money, and financial tips for adults going back to school. 9 Ways to Save Money When You’re Expecting a Baby One for every month! How to Finance Your Mortgage Closing Costs Little […]
Investing in stocks: what you need to know
Dear Liz: I currently have a 401(k) and an IRA, but want something more. A longtime CPA, who is very close to our family, recommended that I buy some stocks, but I’m unsure how to go about this. Answer: When you’re investing, it’s important to be diversified. That means you should spread your money among […]
Beware debt reduction offers
Dear Liz: What is your opinion of debt reduction programs? I am constantly receiving mail from various companies, and I was wondering if they are legit. They claim they can reduce my debt, which sounds promising, but I am hesitant to get involved with them. Answer: You’ve got good instincts. Many of the companies sending […]
It’s okay to close credit accounts sometimes
Dear Liz: I have heard that you should never close credit card accounts of your own volition because that can hurt your credit scores. Are there any exceptions? I received a credit card several years ago, when my credit scores were in the toilet because of a number of collection accounts and delinquencies. I had […]