This week’s money news

This week’s top story: Smart Money podcast on investing for your family’s future. In other news: Family budgeting tips that actually work, billions spent on tax returns that could be filed for free, and 3 ways to maximize points and loyalty programs on your work trips.

Smart Money Podcast: ‘The Color of Wealth’: Investing for Your Family’s Future
This week’s episode is dedicated to a conversation about strategies Black women can use to invest for their family’s future.

Family Budgeting Tips That Actually Work
Following a family budget is challenging, especially when unexpected costs pop up, but staying flexible will help.

Billions Spent on Tax Returns That Could Be Filed for Free
About 101 million eligible filers missed out on using the Free File program, a NerdWallet data analysis shows.

3 Ways to Maximize Points and Loyalty Programs on Your Work Trips
Make sure travel reservations are linked to your loyalty accounts, especially if you weren’t the one who booked.