Ask Liz Weston

Get smart with your money

financial bullies

Thursday’s need-to-know money news

By

635515781002297417-D12-PRIMES-GRINCH-30-3881065Today’s top story: An identity theft checklist for the holidays. Also in the news: How to save for retirement while paying off student loans, defending yourself against financial bullies, and 25 ways to improve your finances in 2016.

Your Holiday Identity Theft Checklist
Beware the identity theft Grinch.

5 Ways To Save For Retirement While Paying Off Your Student Loans
It’s not impossible.

5 Ways to Defend Yourself Against Financial Bullies
Stand your ground.

25 Ways to Improve Your Finances in 2016
Every bit helps.

Want better holiday deals? Try haggling
It can’t hurt!

The minus side of PLUS loans

By

Student-LoansParent education loans can help your child attend the college of her dreams — and sink any dreams you had of ever retiring.

The grim reality is that the federal PLUS loan program allows parents to borrow far more than they can comfortably, or even ever, repay.

In my column for Reuters, I explain why the easy lending practices of PLUS loans can lead to a lifetime of debt.

In DailyWorth, I do a little mythbusting of “good” credit habits that are actually bad for you.