This week’s top story: Smart Money podcast on what the Fed news means for you, and choosing a new bank. In other news: October mortgage rates that will continue to rise, 3 common types o f life insurance fraud and how to stay savvy, and Medicare Part B 2023 premiums dip, bucking inflation trends. Smart Money […]
Recent Blog Posts
How to cultivate a happier retirement
Researchers have identified several factors besides money that contribute to a happier retirement, including good health, strong relationships and a sense of purpose. But setbacks are inevitable, in life and in retirement. Not everyone enjoys good health — and no one enjoys it forever. Loved ones die or move away. The pursuits you thought would give […]
Monday’s need-to-know money news
Today’s top story: Smart Money Podcast on beating money procrastination, and when to unfreeze credit. In other news: 5 ways small businesses can offset high gas prices, how to shop on TikTok without overpaying, and the cost difference between using LED and incandescent lightbulbs. Smart Money Podcast: Beating Money Procrastination, and When to Unfreeze Credit […]
Q&A: Can someone who has remarried claim survivor benefits from a deceased former husband?
Dear Liz: Can someone who has remarried claim survivor benefits from a deceased former husband? Answer: Possibly, if the marriage lasted at least 10 years, the divorce occurred at least two years ago and she remarried at age 60 or later. Divorced survivor benefits can be up to 100% of the former husband’s benefit. The amount would […]
Q&A: An online bank didn’t want this reader’s deposit. Now what?
Dear Liz: I recently tried to open a high-yield, one-year certificate of deposit at an online bank. I already have one CD with this bank, but when I went to submit the form for the new account, I got a message on the screen that the bank had denied my request. I called the bank’s customer […]
Q&A: If the credit card is paid off, will the credit score go up or not?
Dear Liz: If I pay off my credit card and carry a zero balance, will my credit score go up quite a bit? Answer: That depends, among other factors, on how much of your available credit you were using on that card. The closer you were to being maxed out — which means using most or all […]