Monday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: Should I pay for my hotel using cash, points or both? Also in the news: A new episode of the SmartMoney podcast on fake reviews and saving too much, 5 travel writers draft their favorite airlines, and where to get relief if there isn’t a second stimulus check.

Should I Pay for My Hotel Using Cash, Points or Both?
Here’s how you can figure out which booking option offers the best value.

Smart Money Podcast: Fake Reviews and Saving ‘Too Much’
How to tell if that review is sincere.

5 Travel Writers ‘Draft’ Their Favorite Airlines
In the spirit of the popular sports-related pastime, we’ve created our own fantasy airline draft.

Where to Get Relief if There Isn’t a Second Stimulus Check
Look for aid locally.

Friday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: Wells Fargo reveals wider abuses. Are you owed money? Also in the news: How to handle credit card bills in an emergency, how much cash do you carry, and a student is accidentally given $1M in financial aid, spends thousands.

Wells Fargo Reveals Wider Abuses: Are You Owed Money?
The scandal widens.

How to Handle Credit Card Bills During an Emergency
What you need to know.

How Much Cash Do You Carry? See How You Compare
A wallet full of cash? Or cards only?

Student accidentally given $1M in financial aid, spends thousands
What could possibly go wrong?

Thursday’s need-to-know money news

currencyToday’s top story: Why you’ll always need cash. Also in the news: Must-know tips for selling your home, nontraditional ways to fund your retirement, and why people with low checking account balances pay high fees.

Why You’ll Always Need Cash
We’re not going all-digital just yet.

5 Must-Know Tips for Selling Your Home
How to get your asking price.

10 Nontraditional Ways to Fund Your Retirement
Thinking outside the box.

People with low checking account balances pay over $500 a year in fees
Overdraft fees can pile up quickly.

Friday’s need-to-know money news

The hackerThe best way to invest your first $1000, the pros and cons of living on cash, and what’s covered by identity theft insurance.

How to Invest Your First $1,000
The road to investment success has to begin somewhere.

4 Tips Before Buying Your Teenager a Car
Laying down the rules of the road before they get behind the wheel.

What I Learned From Living on Cash
Could you survive the Cash Challenge?

Will ID Theft Insurance Shield You From Fraud?
What is and isn’t covered by identity theft insurance.

Trick Yourself Into Boosting 401(k) Contributions
The simple trick that could increase your 401(k) contribution.