Dear Liz: If your in-laws promised you and their son their house, and have for over 20 years, and the whole family is aware that was the plan — your mother-in-law even had a will and a deed made up — do you think the executor of the estate has the right to do away […]
Recent Blog Posts
Will risky refi hurt credit scores?
Dear Liz: I need to refinance my home. My credit score has slipped a bit over the last year (still pretty good) and my wife has lost her job. I’m concerned that if we get denied, that will impact my credit score. Some have told me that inquiries from potential lenders can hurt the score […]
Automatic payments for charity: pros and cons
Dear Liz: You recently suggested people consider putting their charitable donations on automatic. While I have automatic deductions for savings because I do not want to constantly remind myself to do it, I want to remind myself of all other expenses. For me, prudent money management requires attention to all expenses. Your thoughts? Answer: Many […]
Settling student loan debt: not exactly the easy way out
Credit card debts can be settled for pennies on the dollar. Not so student loan debt. Borrowers usually can’t threaten bankruptcy to get a settlement, and the federal government has extraordinary powers to force borrowers to pay. (The feds collect between $1.11 and $1.22 for every $1 owed.) But in the right circumstances, student loan […]
Help your local food bank
Food stamp benefits to 47 million people were cut Nov. 1–and further cuts may lie ahead. Food banks already depleted by the lousy economy are now bracing for an influx of new patrons. So if you’re not among the one in seven Americans currently receiving food stamps, please consider a donation to your local food […]
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Preparing your home for the winter months. Also in the news: Common credit card myths, how to save on your Thanksgiving travel, and what you shouldn’t buy on Black Friday. Seven Essential Home Maintenance Tips for Winter Preparing your home for the cold months ahead. 5 Common Credit Card Myths Time for […]