Is Buy Now, Pay Later a Good Idea?
Quick Answer: Buy now, pay later (BNPL) can be a handy way to split up a purchase, but it is still a loan. Miss a payment and you may face late fees and a lower credit score. Use it for things you would buy anyway, that fit your budget, and that you plan to keep.
How to Spot Finfluencer Red Flags
Quick Answer: A finfluencer is a social media personality who shares financial tips and opinions. The biggest red flags are missing disclaimers, pitching specific products, unclear credentials, one-size-fits-all advice, pressure to act fast and promises of guaranteed results. Before acting on any online tip, check the person’s background through free tools from the SEC and FINRA, and compare what several sources say.
What to Do Financially After a Spouse Dies: A Guide for Families
Quick Answer: After a spouse dies, only a small number of financial tasks need attention right away, such as notifying Social Security, checking on pension elections, and reaching out to an attorney and financial advisor. Most other decisions, including anything involving your home or long-term investments, can wait until you’ve had time to grieve and think clearly. Some account transfers and tax matters should be handled before the end of the year, but they don’t need to happen in the first days or weeks.
4 Roth Conversion Traps and How to Avoid Them
Quick Answer: A Roth conversion moves money from a traditional (pre-tax) retirement account into a Roth account, and you pay income tax on the amount converted in the year you convert it.
How Couples Can Get on the Same Page About Money
In this episode of Making Money Manageable, we tackle a question that comes up with nearly every couple they meet: should you combine your finances, keep them separate, or land somewhere in between? There is no single right answer, but we share the questions every couple should work through together.
Can Technology Improve Your Financial Life?
Yes—technology can save you money and time through higher-interest online banks, automatic bill pay and investing, paperless statements, and stronger security like two-factor authentication. The trick is to start small, keep some local banking for cash, and protect your passwords and account access.