Friday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: How to reclaim money lost to COVID disruptions. Also in the news: How phone calls can save you money, start early to get your house retirement-ready, and which states have extended their tax deadlines. It’s Not Too Late to Reclaim Money ‘Lost’ to COVID Disruptions A chargeback can be a helpful tool, […]

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Thursday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: Start early to get your house retirement-ready. Also in the news: Why these federal student loan borrowers are out of luck, 5 options for people who can’t afford their tax bills, and why big tax refunds aren’t as great as they seem. Start Early to Get Your House Retirement-Ready Most homes aren’t […]

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Wednesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: College costs far outpace wages many students could earn. Also in the news: A look at earning hotel elite status in 2021, how California theme parks have adjusted to the pandemic, and how to claim your $10,200 unemployment tax break. College Costs Far Outpace Wages Many Students Could Earn Working can help […]

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Tuesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: How many funds you should own to save for retirement. Also in the news: COVID tax breaks could open door to student loan forgiveness, better savers spend less money on these 3 things, and how to track your third stimulus payment. How Many Funds Should I Own to Save for Retirement? How […]

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Start early to get your house retirement-ready

Many people want to remain in their homes after they retire rather than move to a senior living facility or community. Unfortunately, most homes aren’t set up to help us age safely and affordably. If your goal is to “age in place,” some advance preparation could help make that possible — or point to better […]

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Monday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: Does Medicare cover COVID testing and vaccines? Also in the news: A new episode of the Smart Money podcast on procrastination and paying student loans vs investing, 3 ways COVID has reshuffled our finances, and how the car you drive can raise your auto insurance rates. Does Medicare Cover COVID Testing and […]

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Q&A: Boosting Credit Scores

Dear Liz: I’m frustrated with my FICO scores. At one point they were well into the 800s and now they languish in the 720 to 730 range. I have no debt — no mortgage or car loan — and fully pay off two credit cards monthly. I have millions (fact, not bragging) in assets with […]

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Q&A: Here’s a strategy to save for retirement in a rush

Dear Liz: I’m hoping to retire in three years so I’m saving as much as possible. I’m maxing out my contributions to a 403(b) retirement plan, a 457(b) deferred compensation plan and a Roth IRA. I also contribute $1,000 each month from my paycheck to an after-tax defined contribution plan offered by my employer. A […]

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Friday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: Ready player two? How couples maximize their credit card rewards. Also in the news: The new stimulus package helps ore college students, common tools that can save you time and money on taxes, and how to qualify for 100% subsidized COBRA payments. Ready Player Two? How Couples Maximize Their Credit Card Rewards […]

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Thursday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: COVID-19 relief for homeowners facing a payment crisis. Also in the news: Common tools that can save you time and money on taxes, why you might treat your third stimulus check differently, and how borrowing for emergencies and moving rose in 2020. COVID-19 Mortgage Relief for Homeowners Facing a Payment Crisis Forbearance […]

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