How to recognize and stop elder abuse
Dear Savvy Senior, Can you write a column on how to recognize elder abuse and what to do if you suspect it? —Concerned Relative Dear Concerned, Elder abuse is a big problem in the United States that has escalated during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the National Council on Aging, as many as 5 million seniors are victims of abuse each year, but studies suggest this crime is... READ MORE
Are your dividends qualified or ordinary?
At some point in almost every investor’s life, they’ll be alerted to the fact that they’re collecting “qualified dividends.” That inevitably prompts the natural question: What are online pharmacy buy nolvadex online no prescription pharmacy qualified dividends? Ultimately, the importance of this distinction has to do with how you’re taxed on your dividends. The tax rate... READ MORE
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
Candidates on Social Security, Medicare
Unless Congress acts, Social Security will deplete its $2.9 trillion reserve fund by 2035, which means the program would be able to pay only about 79% of promised benefits. Medicare’s finances are even more precarious. Noting that seniors are a large voting constituency, both President Trump and Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden have resolved to protect Medicare and Social... 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
How to make better financial decisions
As the coronavirus pandemic continues to challenge every aspect of our lives — work, family, health and money — it is imperative we all take a gut check on any of our portfolio exposed to the wild rides of the financial markets. A recap is important: According to JP Morgan’s Q2 2020 Guide to the Markets, the S&P 500 index hit its last historical high on Feb. 19, 2020. It... READ MORE
