Ask Liz Weston

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Recent Blog Posts

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‘Bridge’ your way to Social Security

Delaying the start of Social Security benefits is a powerful way for retirees to cope with inflation, survive bad investment markets and reduce the risk they’ll run short of money. The advantages of waiting are so great that financial planners often recommend their clients tap other savings, such as retirement funds, to help them delay […]

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Q&A: Taxes on a deceased spouse’s assets

Dear Liz: My dear friend’s husband just passed away and she is immediately selling off all his antiques through an auctioneer. Sales should net well over $100,000 this calendar year. Is there any way to offset the tax hit she will take on this? This will be on top of selling the house in the same […]

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Q&A: What’s the best way to save for education? A 529 plan or I bonds?

Dear Liz: Please write a comparison of 529 college savings plans versus using I bonds for education. I had given baby gifts of 529 funds to grandkids before they had their first birthdays. But due to market volatility, this year I matched those with I bond funding for the kids. The oldest is now 6, so […]

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This week’s money news

This week’s top story: Smart Money podcast on no-spend month 2.0, and recovering from credit damage. In other news: February mortgage rates on the downslope by end of month, having a conversation about fraud with older adults, and how to save your job from laying off. Smart Money Podcast: No-Spend Month 2.0, and Recovering From […]

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How to safely use payment apps

As a frequent PayPal user, Kim Palmer wasn’t surprised to see a payment request on the app pop up. But when she read it, she knew something was wrong. In Kimberly Palmer’s latest for the Associated Press, learn how to safely use payment apps.