Why you most likely need a digital will
Dear Savvy Senior, My wife and I had our estate plan — including a will, power of attorney and advance directive — drawn up about 10 years ago, but recently read that our plan should include a digital will too. What can you tell us about this? —Almost 80 Dear Almost, If you or your wife spend much time online, adding to your estate plan a separate digital will —... READ MORE
How to protect yourself from cybercrime
Dear Savvy Senior, I spend a lot of time online. I love the convenience of paying bills, shopping and keeping up with my grandkids on Facebook and Instagram. But a few months ago, my computer was infected with malware, and I just found out some cyber crook opened up a credit card using my identity and went on a shopping spree. Do you have some simple tips to help me stay safe... READ MORE
Book covers every aspect of retirement
I frequently read and review books for readers of my column. I recently read Retirement Watch: The Essential Guide to Retiring in the 2020s (Regnery Capital) by Bob Carlson, a retirement expert. I recommend it. Retirement Watch covers all the essential components of retirement planning, including the main reasons why some retirement plans fail, mistakes retirees make regarding... READ MORE
Expect to inherit an IRA? Plan ahead
Individual retirement accounts represent an important part of the legacy many of us intend to pass on, but inheriting an IRA presents challenges that demand adequate planning and strategies. Notably, the SECURE Act and, more recently, SECURE 2.0 Act have ushered in sweeping changes to retirement and estate planning, especially for those inheriting retirement accounts. Under the new... READ MORE
Mediation for family caregiving conflicts
Dear Savvy Senior, Are there any services that you recommend that can help families resolve conflicts over the care of an elder parent? My 86-year-old father was recently diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease, and to make matters worse, my sister and brother and I have been perpetually arguing about how to handle his future caregiving and financial needs. —Conflicted... READ MORE
Switch banks for higher savings interest
Interest rates are pretty high these days. That’s great for retirees who need their savings to generate income. But don’t assume that just because rates are high you’re automatically getting them. The going rate at many banks and brokerage houses is abysmally low. The national average interest rate paid on savings is 0.45% (as of May 2024), according to the Federal Deposit... READ MORE
What pet insurance covers (and doesn’t)
If you’ve ever spent a fortune at the emergency vet, pet insurance might sound appealing. By paying some of your vet expenses, these policies can save you money and help you make care decisions based on what’s best for your pet rather than what you can afford. But insurance doesn’t pay for everything. Before you buy pet insurance, you’ll want to understand exactly what it will... READ MORE
Investing in rare books and manuscripts
If you are a bibliophile, you may want to consider collecting rare books and manuscripts. The markets for rare books and manuscripts are currently very active. For example, in 2022, book and paper auction sales totaled $1.06 billion, according to Rare Books Hub. I’ll explain some issues to consider if you are interested in investing in rare books and papers. One advantage of... READ MORE
How identity thieves exploit your trust
Con artists are disguising themselves as well-known brands to steal your money and personal information. Want to know what to do about it? Kiplinger spoke with Doug Shadel, managing director for Fraud Prevention Strategies, LLC, a Seattle-based consulting firm. He served as strategy director for AARP’s Fraud Watch Network for nearly 20 years. You’ve been on the front line of... READ MORE
How to leave a Medicare Advantage plan
About half of Medicare Advantage members left their plans by the end of five years, according to a 2023 study from Brown University School of Public Health. Most switched to another Medicare Advantage plan, but not necessarily because they liked Medicare Advantage. Returning to Original Medicare can be tricky after you first sign up for Medicare Advantage because you may not be able to... READ MORE
