Invest in equities rather than bonds
As a conservative investor, I generally maintain a 50/50 ratio of equities and bonds in my portfolio. I have recently increased the percentage of equities in my portfolio. Because I am well past 73 and still have some traditional (non-Roth) IRAs in my portfolio, I do have to take annual required minimum distributions (RMDs). When I take RMDs in 2026, I have taken withdrawals primarily ... READ MORE
What this year’s Medicare changes mean
If you’re among the roughly 70 million people who get health coverage through Medicare, the federal insurance program for people age 65 and older and some younger people with disabilities, you’re probably already aware of some of the big changes to the system in 2026 — changes that have hit budgets hard. This year’s 9.7% jump in premiums for Part B, which covers outpatient care,... READ MORE
Calculating the true cost of marriage
Q: My boyfriend of four years has asked me to marry him. I love him and want to be in this relationship with him forever, but I’m worried about finances for each of us in the future. It has taken me a long time to be financially stable. I was married for 30 years; my now ex-husband destroyed our credit, and we wound up losing our home to bankruptcy. My boyfriend and I live... READ MORE
How to complain well to get better results
There’s much to complain about in modern life, from flights that depart five hours late (or not at all) to deliveries that don’t arrive to repair services that fail to fix stuff. Yet few of us — studies indicate it’s about one in four — complain to the companies that did us wrong. “If you don’t complain, the company can’t make amends, and the problem will persist for other ... READ MORE
Ways to protect your savings after a diagnosis
Q: I am 73 and healthy, but my beloved husband has early-stage dementia. His diagnosis was a shock, but on reflection, I realize that he was starting to repeat himself and had forgotten to pay a few bills. He is doing well, yet I know this could jeopardize our $1.6 million in savings. How can I restructure our financial plan and estate and pay for his long-term care? A: I’m so sorry... READ MORE
How to protect yourself from new AI scams
Dear Savvy Senior, I keep hearing about AI in the news and how it’s being used in scams. I’m not very tech savvy and find it confusing. What should I know to protect myself? —Cautious Senior Dear Cautious, You’re not alone. Many older adults are asking the same question. Artificial intelligence, or AI, is becoming part of everyday life, from smartphones and internet searches ... READ MORE
Shop around to save on home and car insurance
Although the amount insurers pay out on home and car insurance claims has plummeted, the cost of your premiums have soared, according to a recent analysis by the Vanderbilt Policy Accelerator. At a time when insurance companies are warning of the need for further rate hikes amid worsening climate change and the rising cost of home and auto repairs, this study says that they may already be... READ MORE
How to keep your digital data safe
If you follow technology news, you’ve likely noticed a steady rise in large-scale data breaches and cyber incidents. The growing use of artificial intelligence (AI) and modern technologies has made it easier for criminals to create and automate malware, impersonate employees and exploit weaknesses in systems quicker than before. Investors need to be alert. Even if you practice great ... READ MORE
Watch these threats to lifetime income security
Bob Carlson is a recognized expert on retirement. I reviewed one of his books very favorably a few years ago. He also publishes "Retirement Watch," an excellent monthly publication which covers the latest regulatory changes that impact retirement and estate planning. In a recent publication Carlson sent to his subscribers, he discussed six threats to lifetime income security. Following... READ MORE
With the right mindset, we can adapt to tech
“What’s wrong with me? I feel so stupid!” My client Joan (not her real name) and I were looking at her iPad together. Joan retired from a long career as a social worker. She raised three children and manages all her own affairs. At 83 she’s still elegant, articulate and active in her social circle. Still, she was humbled by this tablet. “Why does this iPad make me feel like... READ MORE
Money 2026
