Dear Liz: Two years ago, my husband was denied a revolving $12,000 line of credit. The credit reporting agency indicated that denial was based on “little revolving usage, insufficient or no bank lines, and insufficient open accounts with zero balances.” Nine months ago, however, he was approved for a car loan and received a FICO […]
Recent Blog Posts
Retiree burdened with unpayable student loan debt
Dear Liz: In a recent column, you fielded a query from parents whose son took out student loans in the mother’s name. You wrote, “If your only income is from Social Security and you don’t have any other property a creditor can legally take, you may be ‘judgment proof,’” which means “a creditor wouldn’t be […]
Maximizing Social Security benefits requires some patience
Dear Liz: I am 65 and recently visited our local Social Security office to apply for spousal benefits. (My wife, who is also 65, applied for her own benefit last year.) I wanted to get the spousal benefit, even if the amount is discounted, so I can let my own Social Security benefit grow. The […]
Monday’s need-to-know money news
How your weekend Netflix binges could help you get a mortgage, the dangers lurking inside “flipped” homes, and what to expect when Mom or Dad rejoin the workforce. Can Your Netflix Account Help You Get a Mortgage? Orange is the New Mortgage. 4 Family Money Lessons From Top Companies Financial education for the entire family. […]
Friday’s need-to-know money news
Financial advice from Woody Allen, how to avoid living off of ramen noodles in college, and what happens to your credit after a short sale. 12 Personal Finance Lessons, Broken Down, In Woody Allen’s ‘Blue Jasmine’ Financial wisdom can come from some pretty odd places. How to Manage the Costs of College Life Manage your […]
Thursday’s need-to-know money news
How to beat car dealers at their own game, managing your own wealth, and how to stay in your home after losing a spouse. The Secret to Beating a Car Dealer How to negotiate the best deal when purchasing a new car. Why You Should Manage Your Own Money Tips on how to manage your […]