Monday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: How to get the most home insurance help after a winter storm. Also in the news: A new episode of the Smart Money podcast on filing your taxes early and tapping into your home equity, 8 ways to take your credit card rewards to the next level in 2021, and how to get relief with your federally backed mortgages.

How to Get the Most Home Insurance Help After a Winter Storm
Talking to your insurer and documenting everything will help you manage and recover from serious storm damage.

Smart Money Podcast: Filing Taxes Early and Tapping Home Equity
Why you probably want to file your taxes sooner rather than later.

8 Ways to Take Your Credit Card Rewards to the Next Level in 2021
With some extra steps — like an inventory of your wallet, a chat with your issuer, and a willingness to track and stack — you can squeeze more value from points and miles.

How to Get Relief With Your Federally Backed Mortgages
There’s a new extension.