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travel rewards

Thursday’s need-to-know money news

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Today’s top story: 5 travel rewards myths that could cost you. Also in the news: 5 things to know about the Hilton Honors AmEx business card, what to know about SIMPLE IRAs, and how to manage household finances after your spouse dies.

5 Travel Rewards Myths That Could Cost You
How to make the most of your rewards.

5 Things to Know About the Hilton Honors AmEx Business Card
Solid benefits.

What Is a SIMPLE IRA and How Do I Open One?
The small company version of a 401(k).

How to Manage Household Finances After Your Spouse Dies
Navigating new financial waters.

5 travel rewards myths that could cost you

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Twenty-four years ago, I knew so little about travel rewards that I took an around-the-world trip without signing up for a single frequent traveler program. Those lost points and miles still haunt me.

Fast forward to last summer, when our family stayed two nights at a luxury hotel in Venice, Italy. Our room would have cost an eye-popping €1,500, or about $1,700, per night. Thanks to the points I’d accumulated using a travel rewards credit card, this over-the-top stay was free.

There’s definitely a learning curve involved when it comes to travel rewards, but delaying your education can be costly if you love to travel. In my latest for the Associated Press, 5 travel reward myths to avoid.

Wednesday’s need-to-know money news

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Today’s top story: Travel rewards can take you far – but only if you pay attention. Also in the news: How blind loyalty can cost you in the points and miles game, the states where tax bills have shrunk the most, and what to do if your credit card application was rejected.

Travel Rewards Can Take You Far – but Only If You Pay Attention
Don’t overestimate their value.

In the Points and Miles Game, Blind Loyalty Can Cost You
Keeping your rewards as rewarding as possible.

These are the states where tax bills have shrunk the most
Is yours one of them?

What to Do If Your Credit Card Application Was Rejected
Make sure your credit report is correct.




Tuesday’s need-to-know money news

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Today’s top story: 5 times to stash your cash and pay with plastic. Also in the news: Chase switches to Expedia for its online travel, how to use autopay to boost your bottom line, and a guide to borrowing money from friends and family.

5 Times to Stash Your Cash and Pay With Plastic
Good for extra protection.

Chase Switches to Expedia to Power Its Online Travel Portal
More choices and flexibility.

How to Use Autopay to Boost Your Bottom Line
It could even help save for retirement.

A Guide to Borrowing Money From Friends and Family
How to handle that awkward conversation.

Wednesday’s need-to-know money news

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Today’s top story: Home loans with 3% down. Also in the news: How one man paid off nearly $100K in debt, a travel rewards bucket list, and the possibilities of postal banking.

HomeReady and Home Possible: Loans With 3% Down for 2018
You’ll need a good credit score.

How I Ditched Debt: Smart Solutions for ‘Stupidest Decision’
How one man paid off nearly $100K in five years.

Travel Rewards Bucket List: Showering on a Plane
Hope the water pressure is good.

What Is Postal Banking?
New legislation could add banking services to your local post office.

Thursday’s need-to-know money news

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Today’s top story: Don’t let puppy love blind you to the expenses of a dog. Also in the news: The pros and cons of timeshares, 9 unsung ways to earn airline miles for free, and every expense you can expect with a first-time home purchase.

Don’t Let Puppy Love Blind You to the Expense of a Dog
Keeping Fido’s costs in check.

Are Timeshares Worth It? Possibly, if You Buy Smart
There are bargains to be found.

9 Unsung Ways to Earn Airline Miles for Free
Convert your groceries into miles.

Every Expense You Can Expect With a First-Time Home Purchase
The costs lurking behind the celebration.