Dear Monty: Are oral statements binding in real estate transactions? The seller requested 30 days after close. She moved out before closing and has a new residence. At closing, she made a verbal agreement with everyone in the room. The title officer, both real estate agents, and I heard her say she would be out…
You’re Not Being Cheated by Social Security
I guess there just must be something about the human psyche that makes so many people feel they’re being cheated out of something that everyone else gets. And if my emails are any indication, that’s especially true when it comes to older adults and Social Security. So many of them seem to be convinced that…
October Is the Best Time to Buy These Things
And just like that, autumn has arrived! Oh, how I love this time of year! Cooler weather, sweaters, scarves, pumpkin pie, and beautiful fall colors make this, for me, the very best time of year. And there’s more—bargains galore await as we head in. Here’s a quick rundown of bargains we’re sure to find during…
Think of an Emergency Fund as Insurance
Dear Dave, I have decided it’s time to get control of my money. Your plan sounds workable, but I talked to some friends about it, and they think I would be better off using a credit card for emergencies. Can you explain why you advise saving a separate emergency fund? Leslee Dear Leslee, When bad,…
The Zero-Based Budget
Dear Dave, I have a good job and make pretty good money, but I’m tired of always worrying about my finances and being strapped for cash at the end of the month. I’ve heard you talk about getting out of debt and living on a zero-based budget, but what exactly is a zero-based budget? Edward…
The 401(k): A Closer Look
If you just started a new job, and you’re looking at the 401(k) options that are available, you probably have questions about how it all works. Your golden years depend on the investment choices you make today. And if you’re counting on your 401(k) to be a big part of your financial picture, it’s important…
Social Security Will Not Go Broke
Here we go again. Another round of scare stories about the impending doom of Social Security. Headlines such as this one in my local newspaper—”Social Security Moves Closer to Bankruptcy”—have many of my readers on edge. These kinds of headlines were prompted by a report recently released from the Social Security Board of Trustees that…
Ask Me Anything: Christmas Clubs, Bank Sale, and Credit Counseling
Dear Mary: Whatever happened to bank-sponsored Christmas clubs? —Ted Dear Ted: They all but disappeared when credit cards became so popular. The new attitude was, “Why worry about it? I’ll just use my credit cards and pay for it later.” Bad idea. Good news: Christmas clubs are making a comeback (so are layaway plans). They…
Is Umbrella Coverage Worth It?
Dear Dave, Are umbrella insurance policies worth it, or do they just entice people to sue more frequently? Tammi Dear Tammi, I don’t think there’s any indication umbrella policies entice folks to bring lawsuits more frequently. If you hadn’t noticed, we live in a lawsuit-happy world. There are lots of greedy people out there who…
Teaching the Value of Work
Dear Dave, What are your views on teaching children good work habits? Many of our friends don’t require their kids to help out or work around the house, but we both strongly feel that instilling a strong work ethic early in life is one of the best things you can do as a parent for…
US News
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