Thursday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: How to negotiate your way to a richer life. Also in the news: 4 signs we’re in a housing market primed for regret, Medicare and CPAP supplies, and could your health or life insurance rates increase if you’re not vaccinated?

How to Negotiate Your Way to a Richer Life
Learning best practices can help you earn more, get better deals and avoid strife over household finances.

4 Signs We’re in a Housing Market Primed for Regret
It’s a tough time to be a homebuyer.

Does Medicare Pay for CPAP Machines and Supplies?
Medicare Part B covers CPAP, but it requires a sleep test and a trial period.

Will Your Health or Life Insurance Rates Increase If You’re Not Vaccinated?
Insurers have yet to decide.

9 bills where you can cut a better deal

The word “bills” used to be synonymous with “fixed expenses.” But there’s nothing fixed about many of the bills a typical household pays today.

Some bills have introductory rates that expire, shooting monthly costs skyward. Others offer secret discounts or upgrades to those in the know. Providers constantly tweak their plans and pricing, which means long-term customers can overpay by hundreds of dollars a year.

In my latest for the Associated Press, a look at 9 bills where you can negotiate a better deal.