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Get smart with your money

financial fraud

Monday’s need-to-know money news

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Today’s top story: More credit cards pile on rewards for mobile wallet spending. Also in the news: Dog-friendly designs attract home buyers and remodelers, new rules to help protect old Americans from financial fraud, and the reckless financial habit that will ruin your chances of ever finding love.

More Credit Cards Pile on Rewards for Mobile Wallet Spending
Perks for paying with your phone.

Dog-Friendly Designs Attract Home Buyers and Remodelers
Not your typical dog house.

These new rules will help protect older Americans from financial fraud
New protections put in place.

This reckless financial habit will ruin your chances of ever finding love
Show some restraint.

4 Ways to Protect Your Retirement Money From Scammers

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help-parents-manage-moneyThe good news: Through hard work, thrift, and wise choices, you’re set for retirement. The bad news: You might find it harder someday to make sound financial decisions. On average, money smarts peak at age 53, the Center for Retirement Research reported in 2010. The older you get, the greater your vulnerability to scams, unscrupulous advisers, or just poor judgment.

The stakes are high: Fraud victims 65 and older lost an average of $30,000, Allianz found last year. One in 10 lost more than $100,000.

In my latest for Money magazine, I discuss measures to take that can protect your finances, or the finances of a parent or older relative.