Ask Liz Weston

Get smart with your money

cryptocurrency

Tuesday’s need-to-know money news

By

Today’s top story: How to get free money for college and help to find it. Also in the news: 4 alternatives to big banks, workplace scams to watch out for, and unexpected things you could buy with crypto.

You Can Get Free Money for College — and Help Finding It
The FAFSA qualifies you for federal financial aid. And it’s not too late to submit it for this academic year.

Tired of Your Big Bank? Consider These 4 Alternatives
Become more than just a number.

Scam Alert: Avoid a Big Mistake in a New Job
CEO fraud and other scams try to get employees to purchase gift cards, send money or divulge sensitive information.

Unexpected Things You Didn’t Know You Could Buy With Crypto
From home goods to travel.

Monday’s need-to-know money news

By

Today’s top story: 3 things to do before you buy crypto. Also in the news: A new episode of the Smart Money podcast on back to school shopping and breaking bad money habits, student debt is canceled for borrowers with disability, and 6 ways to make your business more agile.

3 Things to Do Before You Buy Crypto
All your friends are doing it. Should you invest in crypto, too? Take it slow and meet other money goals first.

Smart Money Podcast: School Supply Shopping and Breaking Bad Money Habits
How to save money when back-to-school shopping this year.

Student Debt Canceled for Borrowers With Disability; $10K Forgiveness Stalled

6 Ways to Make Your Business More Agile
Small businesses with agility can quickly pivot to survive disruptions and take advantage of opportunities.

Wednesday’s need-to-know money news

By

Today’s top story: 3 tips when thinking about your post-vaccination travel. Also in the news: Going beyond micro-investing, how to keep your parked car road-ready, and is it too late to invest in cryptocurrency?

3 Tips When Thinking About Your Post-Vaccination Travel Risk
Travel has always involved some risk, but the COVID-19 pandemic adds another layer even if you’re vaccinated.

Micro-Investing: A Great First Step, But Don’t Stop There
Investing small amounts is certainly better than nothing, but micro-investing alone may not be sufficient for long-term goals.

How to Keep Your Parked Car Road Ready
Furry squatters could lead to big auto bills.

Is It Too Late to Invest in Cryptocurrencies?
Understanding the blockchain.

Thursday’s need-to-know money news

By

Today’s top story: Why you should stop waiting to sell your home. Also in the news: How to find a Black financial advisor, sharing renters insurance with a roommate, and why you need to start claiming crypto on your taxes.

Why You Should Stop Waiting to Sell Your Home
Now maybe a good time to sell your home. First, decide whether to sell before or after finding your next place.

How to Find a Black Financial Advisor
There are a few ways, but understanding the “why” may be just as important as the “how.”

Can I Share Renters Insurance With My Roommate?
Many companies permit it, but there’s no guarantee it’ll save you money in the long run.

Why You Need to Start Claiming Crypto on Your Taxes
The IRS wants to know.

Friday’s need-to-know money news

By

Today’s top story: Relax. The Reddit-Hedge Fund battle won’t tank your 401(k). Also in the news: How Medicare star ratings can help you choose a plan, the tax credit fix many can’t afford to miss, and what is Dogecoin and why are people buying it?

Relax. The Reddit-Hedge Fund Battle Won’t Tank Your 401(k)
The internet is aflame with stock market reactions. But if you invested for the long term, you’re likely insulated from any fallout.

Medicare Star Ratings: How They Can Help You Choose a Plan
Medicare star ratings (compiled by the government) help shoppers compare Medicare Advantage and Part D drug plans.

The Tax Credit Fix Many Can’t Afford to Miss
Working families could miss out on the refundable tax credits they need to make ends meet.

What is Dogecoin, and Why Are People Buying It?
The hottest meme crypto.