A reader recently wondered what the average person could expect from Social Security, compared to the taxes we pay into the system. Urban Institute has done the math, and recently released “Social Security and Medicare Taxes and Benefits Over a Lifetime: 2013 Update.” The institute figured out net present values of money paid in and […]
Recent Blog Posts
Use inheritance to pay credit cards, not mortgage
Dear Liz: I will be inheriting around $300,000 over the next year. My instincts are to pay down debt with this money. I have two homes and for practical reasons need to keep them. One home has a $260,000 mortgage balance at 5%. The other has a $130,000 mortgage at 4%. We have $35,000 in […]
Beware the hidden risks of self-directed IRAs
Dear Liz: My 401(k) plan has grown exceptionally well this year. I think we all know that it can’t last. I just recently heard about self-directed IRAs. I was intrigued at the possibility of opening one by rolling over a portion of my 401(k) money directly. The problem is, my company’s 401(k) provider will not […]
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Hidden taxes that can bust your budget. Also in the news: how to job hunt during the holidays, the fastest growing jobs in America, and how to make the most out of your year end charitable giving. Hidden Taxes That Can Bust Your Budget How to avoid being caught by surprise. 3 […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: How driving could affect your credit. Also in the news: The five C’s of credit, what you shouldn’t do this Christmas, and what we can learn about personal finance from three holiday classics. How Does Driving Affect Your Credit? Unpaid tickets could wreck your credit score. The 4 Judgments Every Lender Makes […]
Great money books to get or give
Donna Freedman was kind enough to include a couple of my books in her recent post, “The gift of personal finance,” which made me realize that there was an unusually good crop of money tomes that appeared this year. I’m delighted to recommend the following for anyone who’s interested in making the most of his […]