Protect yourself from the latest scams
Most of us need a refresher course on how to protect ourselves from scams. “Scams have become so sophisticated now. Phishing emails, texts, spoofing caller ID, all of this technology gives scammers that edge,” said Eva Velasquez, president and CEO of the Identity Theft Resource Center. As scammers find new ways to steal money and personal information, consumers should be more... READ MORE
The importance of naming beneficiaries
Unfortunately, when a retirement plan owner or beneficiary makes an error regarding naming beneficiaries or managing his account assets, the result can be a loss of hundreds of thousands of dollars that don’t go to the beneficiary of their choice. If you are the owner of a retirement plan with significant assets, it is crucial that you make your decisions regarding naming beneficiaries ... READ MORE
In economic rollercoasters, try CD ladder
Things might be changing soon for savers. Kiplinger Investing for Income editor Jeffrey Kosnett recently said, “You might be wise to lock in Treasury-bill and CD ladders sooner rather than later.” The reason? Rates on CDs are still high, with many terms earning you over 4%. However, those rates might be coming down in the future if the Fed decides to cut interest rates. And... READ MORE
With AI, scammers have more ways to deceive
Late at night, while watching television at home, your cell phone suddenly lights up with a FaceTime call. On the screen, you see the tear-streaked face of your beloved grandchild, visibly distressed and pleading for your assistance. She explains that she’s in a foreign country in trouble, desperately needing money for bail. She implores you to keep this situation secret from her parents... READ MORE
Annuities provide guaranteed income
Annuities, a type of guaranteed income, can give you peace of mind in retirement. After all, having an annuity means you can count on a payment arriving regularly, regardless of how the stock markets are performing. But is an annuity a must-have? Some 401(k) plan sponsors, insurance companies and money managers think so, but not every financial pro is on board with that... READ MORE
Entrepreneur turns grief into guidance
When Adam Zuckerman’s father died suddenly of a leukemia relapse just 12 days after a visit to the hospital, Zuckerman found himself crushed by grief — and overwhelmed by paperwork. “What I realized was, [paperwork] takes a lot more time than I thought it should, and that the process is pretty complicated, and I’m not the only person who’s gone through it,” he said in an... READ MORE
Helpful resources for older job seekers
Dear Savvy Senior, What websites or apps can you recommend to help older people find employment opportunities? I’m 60 and have been out of work for nearly a year now and need some help. —Seeking Employment Dear Seeking, To help you find employment, there are a number of job-search websites and apps specifically tailored to older workers seeking full-time, part-time or remote ... READ MORE
Banking you can do online or on an app
The brick-and-mortar banking experience that retirees relied on growing up is waning. You may be aware that bank closings are becoming common these days as more people shift to mobile apps and online banking. There may be a bit of a learning curve for retirees, but once they make the switch, it can open up a world of convenience. After all, you can do much more than check your balance ... READ MORE
How to prepare for a possible recession
If you are retired and worried about a recession, join the crowd. For current retirees or those planning retirement soon, just the whiff of a possible recession is alarming. The American economy has been remarkably strong, but confidence in the economy is plunging in the face of multiple economic and political challenges. Economists have been flirting with the idea of a recession ever ... READ MORE
Tips for investors during volatile markets
[Ed’s. Note: This story offers a different way of looking at volatility than our story with a similar title last September.] Navigating financial markets can often feel like trying to predict the weather a month in advance — frustrating, unreliable and prone to sudden changes. While markets thrive on speculation, successful investing is built on logic and discipline. Rather than... READ MORE
