Monday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: 5 ways to protect yourself from Medicare fraud. Also in the news: A new episode of the Smart Money podcast on questioning the 50/30/20 budget, 5 credit card mistakes to avoid during tough times, and the cheapest places to buy an acre of land in the United States.

5 Ways to Protect Yourself From Medicare Fraud
Protect your Medicare number and review your statements to guard against Medicare fraud. If it does happen, help is available.

Smart Money Podcast: Questioning the 50/30/20 Budget, and Company Stock
This week’s episode starts with a discussion of the 50/30/20 budget — why it works and how to use it as prices soar.

5 Credit Card Mistakes to Avoid During Tough Times
By having a plan and knowing about less costly alternatives, you can avoid credit card mistakes that lead to debt.

The Cheapest Places to Buy an Acre of Land in the U.S.
There are still some (relatively) affordable places to put down roots.

Tuesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: Why buying life insurance for your parents can make financial sense. Also in the news: A new episode of the Smart Money podcast on the 50/30/20 budget, one person’s no-spending month results, and when to hire a tax professional.

Why Buying Life Insurance for Your Parents Can Make Financial Sense
Life insurance can help offset the costs of your parents getting older, but you’ll need their help to get it.

Smart Money Podcast: Money News You Missed and the 50/30/20 Budget
Breaking down the budget numbers.

I Stopped Spending for a Month, and You Can Too
One person’s success story.

When to Hire Someone to Do Your Taxes
When it’s time to call in the pros.

Thursday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: Take control now with advance medical directives. Also in the news: How to transfer a credit card balance in 3 simple steps, how to set up a 50/20/30 budget, and tax filing tips for college students.

Take Control Now With Advance Medical Directives
Some of the most important decisions you’ll ever make.

How to Transfer a Credit Card Balance in 3 Simple Steps
What to do when you find a better rate.

How to Set Up a 50/20/30 Budget
Based on three easy categories.

Tax-Filing Tips for College Students
Navigating the student loan maze.

Wednesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: Don’t let friends and family pick your financial advisor. Also in the news: A month with the 50/30/20 budget plan, what the confusing terms in your 401(k) plan mean, and a growing number of Americans have more credit card debt than savings.

Don’t Let Friends and Family Pick Your Financial Advisor
Due diligence is essential.

Budget Diary: Navigating Holiday Spending and Debt Payments
A month with the 50/30/20 budget.

What This Confusing Term in Your 401(k) Plan Means
Deciphering the strange terms.

A growing number of Americans have more credit-card debt than savings
And it’s getting worse.