Featured Story
Be sure to ‘opt out’ of paperless notices
On July 27, a new anti-consumer Labor Department regulation went into effect. The new rule gives retirement plans the right to quit mailing workers and retirees important disclosures on paper and simply send a notice by text or email, telling them that key pension information is available on a website. Then it is up to workers and retirees to hunt that information down. The Pension... READ MORE
Having good credit can save you money
Even if you don’t plan to borrow a dime, a good credit record is valuable. Think of it like a household fire extinguisher: It’s smart to have a good one even though you have no plans to use it. And your credit can influence your life in ways beyond borrowing. Here’s why good credit is so valuable: Flexibility in a crisis, more options If the coronavirus pandemic has taught us ... READ MORE
Beirut explosion: Avoid charity scams
After any disaster, many Americans open their hearts and wallets. During the pandemic alone, giving reached $10.2 billion by early May, with $6 billion of that coming from the U.S., according to the Chronicle of Philanthropy. But scammers often prey on this generosity. For instance, if you’re planning to donate in the wake of the recent explosion that rocked the port of Beirut or... READ MORE
Probate workarounds may aid your heirs
A reader recently reached out after his elderly mother died, asking how soon he could distribute the $10,000 she had earmarked in her will for each of her two grandchildren. Because she lived in California, I had to break the bad news: He won’t be able to hand over the money any time soon. Probate is the court process to distribute someone’s estate after their death, even if there ... READ MORE
Preferred stocks are worth a closer look
Many investors don’t fully understand the advantages and disadvantages of buying preferred stocks. Preferred stock is really a hybrid security more similar to a bond than to a common stock. The primary advantage is consistent high income with less downside risk than common stocks. The primary disadvantage is that when interest rates increase significantly, the value of preferred stocks ... READ MORE
Where to find financial help in hard times
Dear Savvy Senior, Are there any financial assistance programs you can refer me to? The coronavirus pandemic has cost me my part-time retirement job and has shrunk my measly IRA account. Needy Retiree Dear Needy, Absolutely! In addition to the $1,200 federal coronavirus stimulus check that was distributed in April and May, there are many other financial-assistance programs (both... READ MORE
Money 2020
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