Money Girl
Laura Adams offers short, friendly advice on personal finance, small business, real estate, and investing. The podcast aims to help listeners live a richer life, whether they are beginners or experienced investors.
Episodes
How do I find and hire the right financial advisor? (Reissue)
952. Not sure whether you need a financial advisor, or which kind to look for? Laura Adams explains the seven types of financial professionals: bankers, insurance agents, tax accountants, estate attorneys, stockbrokers, registered investment advisors (RIAs), and certified financial planners (CFPs). She covers what each one does, how each is paid, and which are fiduciaries legally required to act i
Bonds are back–should I own more of them?
1058. With 10-year U.S. Treasury yields above 5.3%, many investors are asking if they should ditch stocks and play it safe with fixed income. Host Laura Adams answers a listener’s question about investing when retirement is ten years away. You’ll learn the basics of bonds and how to use a three-bucket strategy to lower risk without giving up long-term growth. Key TakeawaysA bond is a loan an inves
Flight canceled? Know your air passenger rights
1057. Few things are more frustrating than learning your flight has been canceled. But do you know what you’re legally entitled to when an airline grounds your plane? Host Laura Adams breaks down your rights as an air traveler and explains how to protect your wallet when flights get disrupted. Key TakeawaysIf an airline cancels your flight or changes your schedule by more than three hours domestic
How to buy a home when you already own one
1056. Should you buy your next home before selling your current one, or is it safer to sell first? How does an existing mortgage impact your ability to qualify for a new loan, and where should your down payment actually come from? Host Laura Adams answers a listener’s questions about navigating the tricky logistics of moving and whether to convert her current house into a rental property.Key Takea
How to accelerate your wealth, with Natasha Madan
1055. Host Laura Adams interviews Natasha Madan, CMO and consumer advocate at Credit Karma, about the financial habits of Gen Z, credit myths, and wise ways to use AI tools. You’ll learn practical strategies to optimize your credit, get the best interest rates, and build wealth faster.Key TakeawaysTaking small, consistent actions, such as reducing your credit utilization or consolidating high-inte
4 safe strategies for a mid-career pivot
1054. Are you comfortable in your career but longing for change? Or maybe you want the freedom to move anywhere in the country without taking a financial step backward? Host Laura Adams answers a listener’s question about safe ways to pivot to a new career with a high earning potential and geographic flexibility.Key Takeaways:Break down your existing career expertise into hard skills (core work fu
7 ways to build wealth before December 31
1053. Host Laura Adams walks you through seven ways to lower your taxes, maximize savings, and protect your hard-earned cash before midnight on December 31. Don’t let holiday chaos cause you to miss this critical deadline.Key TakeawaysEmployer-sponsored retirement plans like 401(k)s, 403(b)s, and 457s require employers to deduct contributions from paychecks by December 31.Zero out your flexible sp
How to save for a child’s future home
1052. Thinking about helping your kids buy a home decades from now? Host Laura Adams answers a listener’s question about the best ways to grow savings. You’ll learn how inflation impacts long-term savings and which growth-oriented accounts offer the best return for long-term goals.Key Takeaways:For long-term goals, low-yield options like CDs carry risk due to inflation. Broad-market index funds (l
529 savings vs. prepaid plans–benefits, rules, and strategies
1051. Are you worried about the rising cost of college? In celebration of College Savings Month, Laura compares the two main types of education accounts: 529 savings plans and 529 prepaid tuition plans. You’ll learn their key differences and how to choose the right plan.Key TakeawaysBoth 529 savings and prepaid plans offer tax-free account growth and tax-free withdrawals when used for qualified ed
Buying a car? 6 steps to avoid costly mistakes
1050. Buying a car can feel like a financial landmine. Host Laura Adams answers a listener’s question about buying a car before starting his first job. You’ll learn how to evaluate your current car, set a budget, secure financing, and find a great deal that doesn’t wreck your financial goals!Key Takeaways:Compare a car’s repair bill against months of new car payments and a potentially higher insur
5 small habits that build big wealth
1049. Think building wealth requires a six-figure salary? Think again. Host Laura Adams breaks down five small, high-impact habits that lead to serious long-term wealth, regardless of your current income. You’ll learn how to turn quiet daily routines into big financial freedom!Key TakeawaysWealth is built on consistency. Setting up automatic transfers to high-yield savings and retirement acco
Inherited money? Ways to share wealth without paying extra taxes
1048. Receiving an inheritance can be a life-changing financial event, but passing a portion of those funds along to family members comes with a unique set of tax rules. Host Laura Adams breaks down the federal tax consequences of sharing an inheritance. You’ll learn how inherited assets are taxed at receipt, how the federal annual gift tax exclusion works, and smart tax-free strategies to help yo
Medicare 101: How to avoid pricey mistakes and choose the right plan
1047. Host Laura Adams cuts through the confusion and explains the basics of Medicare for anyone approaching 65 or helping a relative compare options. You’ll learn how parts of Medicare work, which expenses Medicare doesn’t cover, how to fill insurance gaps, avoid lifetime penalties, and the truth about costly Medicare myths.Key Takeaways:Medicare Part A covers hospital and inpatient care (premium
Roth IRA vs. Trump Account: Which is better for kids?
1046. Did your teenager earn money from a summer or part-time job? Laura answers a listener’s question about two tax-advantaged savings accounts for minors: the Roth IRA and the new Trump Account. You’ll learn how both accounts work and where working teens or their parents should put their hard-earned dollars first.Key Takeaways:Minors can have a custodial Roth IRA when they earn income from W-2 e
Workplace Roth vs. Roth IRA–what’s the difference?
1045. Are you taking full advantage of tax-free retirement growth? While both workplace Roth plans and Roth IRAs offer tax-free growth, they come with vastly different eligibility limits, withdrawal rules, and investment options. Laura breaks down the key Roth differences so you can decide which option is right for you. Key Takeaways:You can contribute up to $24,500 to $32,750 in a workplace
Smart ways to pay less on rising healthcare cost
1044. Are rising healthcare costs ruining your budget? Laura answers a listener’s question about how to maximize every tax advantage available for healthcare costs. You’ll learn the rules for deducting them on your tax return or paying them with tax-advantaged savings accounts like HSAs and FSAs. We’ll cover which expenses are tax-free and simple strategies to optimize your healthcare spending.Key
A beginner’s guide to travel hacking using rewards
1043. Dreaming of your next getaway, but need to do it on a budget? Laura demystifies the world of “travel hacking” for complete beginners. You’ll learn how to leverage everyday spending to earn valuable reward points, maximize their redemption value for free travel, and strategically use credit cards without hurting your credit scores or accumulating debt. This is your secret weapon to travel mor
8 money rules for happy couples
On a road trip, tackling a summer cleanup, or just catching up on podcasts? QDT has you covered with Summer Saturday encores from your favorite shows. See the full Summer Saturday lineup on Spotify and enjoy this episode, which first aired in November, 2024.Laura reviews money rules for couples who want to avoid common pitfalls and have a healthy financial life.Money Girl is hosted by Laura Adams.
Should my first home be an investment property? (Reissue)
941. Should you buy a rental property before your first home? Laura answers a listener's question about the pros and cons of 'house hacking' as an investment strategy — including how much you really need to save, what lenders require for investment properties, and whether becoming a landlord first is actually a smart path to building wealth. Discover more from Money Girl!FacebookMoney Girl Newslet
Take control of your money, with Intuit’s Mark Notarainni
1042. Laura Adams interviews Mark Notarainni, an 18-year veteran at Intuit, to explore how integrated platforms and artificial intelligence (AI) are revolutionizing personal finance. Find out how combining tax data, credit histories, and everyday spending can help you take control of your financial life.Key Takeaways:Connecting your tax, credit, and spending data into a single ecosystem gives you
8 ways to spend money for a happier life
On a road trip, tackling a summer cleanup, or just catching up on podcasts? QDT has you covered with Summer Saturday encores from your favorite shows. See the full Summer Saturday lineup on Spotify and enjoy this episode, which first aired in July 2025.Laura provides tips for using money as a tool for getting more joy from life.Transcript: https://money-girl.simplecast.com/episodes/8-ways-to-spend
Should I pay off a low-rate mortgage or invest?
1041. If you have extra cash, should you pay off a low-interest mortgage or invest it? Laura answers a listener’s question about balancing financial math with the emotional peace of mind that comes from being mortgage-free.Key Takeaways:Paying off a debt yields a guaranteed return equal to your loan’s interest rate.Make sure you have a healthy emergency fund before making extra debt payments.Consi
Canceling credit cards–smart move or credit mistake?
1040. Laura explains the hidden risks of canceling credit card accounts. You’ll learn how credit utilization works, when closing an account is and isn’t worth it, and how to protect your credit if you do decide to close a credit card. Key takeaways:Closing a credit card shrinks your available credit, which causes your credit utilization ratio to spike, resulting in an immediate reductio
A 7-point mid-year checklist for money success
On a road trip, tackling a summer cleanup, or just catching up on podcasts? QDT has you covered with Summer Saturday encores from your favorite shows. See the full Summer Saturday lineup on Spotify and enjoy this episode, which first aired in July 2024.Take stock of your finances with Laura’s mid-year checklist for more money success.Money Girl is hosted by Laura Adams. A transcript is available a
Should I consolidate old retirement plans?
1039. Laura answers a listener’s question about managing multiple 401(k)s with her current and previous employers. Find out the pros and cons of holding old retirement plans, how to streamline your strategy, and simultaneously reach other financial goals, like homeownership.Key takeawaysConsolidating old retirement plans into one low-cost IRA or your current employer’s plan simplifies your asset a
9 things to know about buying your first home
1038. Are you thinking about buying your first home but feeling overwhelmed by interest rates, upfront costs, and hiring a real estate agent? Host Laura Adams walks you through 9 tips every first-time homebuyer must know to protect their finances and land the right deal.Key Takeaways:How subtle changes in your credit score can save (or cost) you tens of thousands in today's rate environment.Most m
5 ways to help your kids become rich
On a road trip, tackling a summer cleanup, or just catching up on podcasts? QDT has you covered with Summer Saturday encores from your favorite shows. See the full Summer Saturday lineup on Spotify and enjoy this episode, which first aired in June 2022.Find out five ways to save and invest for your child's future and how it should fit into your big financial picture.Money Girl is hosted by Laura A
8 things to know about investing in a brokerage account (Reissue)
795. Laura answers a listener question about how to invest in a brokerage account, including the rules you need to know and the best strategy for diversification.Discover more from Money Girl!FacebookNewsletterTranscripts available at QuickandDirtyTips.com.Email: Laura@LauraDAdams.com or leave a voicemail: (302) 364-0308. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The wedding series: navigating love, risk, and money, with James Sexton
1037. What actually happens legally and financially when you say "I do"? Laura Adams interviews veteran New York City divorce trial lawyer Jim Sexton about the often misunderstood world of matrimonial law. Whether you are happily single, engaged, or decades into a marriage, Jim’s advice will completely change how you view love, risk, and asset management.Key takeaways:Be aware that if you don't cr
Dealing with debt: expert tips for using a balance transfer credit card
Summer Saturdays: Best of QDT Encore Episode: This episode originally aired in June 2022.733. Ever wonder if using a balance transfer credit card could help you get out of debt faster? Laura interviews Mary Gameng, MBA and Credit Card Specialist with Citizens, and answers a listener question. Here are a few topics Mary and Laura talk about on this week's show:How many Americans have credit ca
Will Social Security be there for you?
1036. Is Social Security in trouble, or is it just a lot of political noise? Laura answers a listener’s question about what the changes to the retirement fund mean for your financial future. You’ll learn the new tax caps that employees and the self-employed must pay and how to protect your retirement safety net.Key takeawaysAccording to the latest 2026 Trustees Report, the Social Security retireme
The wedding series: plan your big day on an hourly budget
1035. Host Laura Adams sits down with Plannie founder Annie Lee to expose the most common financial pitfalls couples make. Annie breaks down the "macro approach" to wedding design, explaining how to test-drive a planner and focus your budget for a luxury feel at a fraction of the cost. Key takeaways:Why overinvesting in a wedding venue is the most common budget mistake.How to focus on event e
How to guide Gen Z to financial success
1034. Watching the young adults in your life navigate their first "real" job is an exciting milestone—but it can also be stressful if you notice them carrying credit card debt or skipping out on savings. Laura answers a heartfelt question on this topic with five non-judgmental strategies to guide a young person toward financial success without sounding overbearing. Key takeawaysTo help a youn
The wedding series: How to avoid money mistakes in marriage
1033. Host Laura Adams sits down with family law attorney Cari Rincker to unpack the crucial intersection of love, law, and your wallet. Cari reveals why every couple already has a prenuptial agreement (whether they signed one or not) and discusses legal differences between states for divorce. You’ll learn how to protect your assets, open the lines of communication, and build a secure financial fu
Traditional vs. Roth 401(k) – Best strategy for side hustlers
1032. Do you have extra side hustle income that’s pushing you into a higher tax bracket? In this episode, Laura answers a listener’s question about whether new self-employment earnings mean it's time to switch from a Roth to a traditional 401(k) or IRA. You’ll learn how to use retirement contributions to lower your taxable income today, the fundamental tax differences between these accounts, and h
The wedding series: business and budget behind the big day
1031. Are you curious about hiring a wedding or event planner? Amanda Savory from Amanda Savory Events (ASE), a premier agency in New York City, joins Laura to discuss tips for working with a planner, ways to cut costs, and how to have an unforgettable wedding day. Find Amanda Savory on Instagram @amandasavoryevents.Key TakeawaysA wedding planner should help you clarify your top priorit
SAVE plan is gone: What student loan borrowers must do before July 1
1030. If you have federal student loans or plan to use them to finance higher education, you must understand significant upcoming changes to the program. Find out the benefits and downsides of new legislation and how it could affect your finances if you’re a current or future student loan borrower. Key takeawaysDue to the One Big Beautiful Bill, massive changes to federal student loans will r
5 summer travel hacks that really save money
1029. Does the cost of a summer vacation mean you have to stay home this year? Rising prices for travel, gas, food, and lodging can make a family getaway feel out of reach. But with the right strategies, you can enjoy a memorable summer trip without overspending or going into debt.In this episode, Laura shares practical ways to stretch your travel budget, from choosing affordable destinations clos
Good debt vs bad debt: Your plan for paying off debt faster
Do you know the difference between good and bad debt? Laura explains why it's a critical concept for saving money, building wealth, and creating more financial security. Plus, she covers a simple 7-step plan for paying off debt fast.Encore Episode: This episode originally aired on Wednesday, March 6, 2024.Money Girl is hosted by Laura Adams and is part of the Quick and Dirty Tips Network. Hosted
Should I invest a lump sum or equally throughout the year?
1028. Laura answers a listener’s question about investing a lump sum or using a dollar-cost averaging (DCA) strategy. Find out what DCA is and its pros and cons whether you have a little or a lot to invest.Key takeawaysDollar-cost averaging (DCA) is a simple strategy where you invest a consistent amount at regular intervals.DCA benefits include reducing market risk, needing smaller amounts of cash
7 steps to recession-proof your finances (Reissue)
749. If you’re worried about a recession or just want to strengthen your finances, Laura covers seven steps to take now to ease the impact of a future hardship. Encore episode: This episode originally aired in November 2022.Discover more from Money Girl!FacebookNewsletterTranscripts available at QuickandDirtyTips.com.Email: Laura@LauraDAdams.com or leave a voicemail: (302) 364-0308. Hosted on
8 Micro money habits for guaranteed success
Think you need to make monumental changes to achieve your financial goals? Think again. Money Girl has 8 micro money habits to help you take control of your finances, feel secure, and reach any realistic financial goal you desire.Encore Episode: This episode originally aired in June of 2022.Money Girl is hosted by Laura Adams. Find Money Girl on Facebook or subscribe to the newsletter for more per
7 money rules for new graduates
1027. New graduates can create financial freedom by consistently following a few fundamental money rules. Laura reviews seven tips that can set young adults up for a lifetime of financial success.Expert advice for navigating life after graduation — for new grads and the people cheering them on. From finances and freelancing to nutrition and knowing when to ask for help, find it all in our "Life Af
Travel smarter–Inside travel insurance with World Nomads
1026. Travel insurance expert, Christina Tunnah of World Nomads, breaks down the benefits of coverage and costly mistakes travelers should avoid. From medical emergencies abroad to unexpected trip interruptions, get insider tips on how to travel and explore the world with less risk and financial stress.Interview topics coveredHow to choose a travel plan based on your health, belongings you take on
How to reduce or avoid tax when selling a home
1025. If you’re considering selling a home, you may wonder how it will affect your taxes. Laura answers a listener’s question on this topic and explains how to use a legit, massive tax exclusion that allows many homeowners to skip home sale taxes altogether.Key takeawaysSelling an asset, such as a home, for a profit results in capital gains tax, with a rate that depends on your income and how long
4 ways to fund an early retirement penalty-free
1024. Are you ready to quit working or to begin a financially independent lifestyle? Laura covers four ways to access your retirement funds without paying a hefty 10% early withdrawal penalty before 59.5. Key takeawaysUsing a tax-advantaged retirement account has many benefits, but one downside is typically paying a 10% penalty for withdrawals before age 59.5.The rule of 55 is an IRS rule tha
10 Ways a 529 plan makes education more affordable
1023. Are you worried about the future cost of education for yourself or a child? Laura reviews ten ways a 529 savings plan supercharges education savings and can even be used for young students, non-traditional coursework, and professional career pivots.Key takeawaysContributions to a 529 plan get taxed upfront, but the account growth and withdrawals for qualified expenses are tax-free.States spo
6 Money moves to make before a potential rate hike
1022. If you were expecting interest rates to drop, rising inflation is making it more likely for them to go up this year. Laura reviews six moves you shouldn’t overlook in a rising-rate environment to make your money work harder for you.Key takeawaysWhen inflation rises, the Fed raises interest rates to slow down spending and demand, eventually causing prices to decrease so spending increases.Wit
Which mortgage is right for you?
1021. Looking for a mortgage but are unsure what’s best for you? Laura answers a question from a listener who’s ready to buy a home but is overwhelmed by mortgage choices. Find out whether a fixed- or adjustable-rate loan, with or without mortgage points, is right for you.Key Takeaways:Fixed-rate mortgages are popular because they lock in a rate, providing financial stability no matter what happen
Do’s and don’ts of using chatbots and AI money tools
1020. Using an AI tool or chatbot to improve your finances can be wise, depending on what you tell it. Laura reviews what you can safely ask a bot and what you should never enter in an AI tool. You’ll learn ten powerful AI prompts you can use to find hidden savings, negotiate your bills, and build more wealth.Key takeawaysSince your data can be used without your knowledge, never enter personally i
Is a HELOC worth the risk?
1019. If you have enough home equity and not enough cash, you may wonder about taking a home equity line of credit (HELOC). Laura answers a listener’s question about whether taking a larger HELOC to pay for an expensive car repair and an upcoming wedding is a good or “horrible” idea. Key Takeaways:Most lenders require you to maintain at least 20% home equity after tapping it with a HELOC.HELO
What happens to your money after you die? (Reissue)
910. Laura reviews what happens to your assets and debts after your death, depending on your estate, marital status, and home state. This episode originally ran in March of 2025.Upcoming Wedding Series Coming Up: We want your questions about wedding finances! Whether you're the bride, groom, or a guest, send us your questions about budgeting for the big day. Email: money@quickanddirtytips.com or l
Beyond a 401(k)--Understanding a 403(b), 457, and 401(a)
1018. Do you have multiple retirement plans and are unsure how they fit together? Laura answers a listener’s question about having a 403(b) and a 457 plan at work, and a potential second job with a 401(a). Knowing the rules of various retirement plans helps you take full advantage of them and avoid potential mistakes and penalties. Key takeawaysThe names of workplace retirement plans come fro
Best retirement plans for self-employed & small business owners
1017. If you think that you must have a cushy job to access a retirement plan, you’re mistaken. There are excellent retirement accounts for the self-employed or those running a small business. Laura reviews the rules, pros, and cons of different retirement plans you might choose based on your income, business size, and financial goals.Key Takeaways:Whether your employer doesn’t offer a retirement
Should you stop retirement investing to pay for long-term care?
1016. Are you concerned about affording the future cost of long-term care (LTC), especially with inflation and rising healthcare costs? Laura answers a listener’s question about buying LTC insurance or investing for retirement. You’ll learn how different LTC products and services work and their pros and cons for those with different budgets and goals.Key takeaways: Traditional long-term care
Is your old boss holding your money? 2026 retirement rollover rules
1015.Are you guilty of leaving "orphan" retirement accounts behind at old jobs? In 2026, failing to manage these funds leads to fiscal drag and unnecessary fees. In this episode, Laura shares essential money management tips to help you rescue your old 401(k) or 403(b) and stop leaving money on the table.We cover the 2026 technical shifts you need to know, including the SECURE 2.0 Act "force-out" r
5 Smart money management tips for a shaky economy: Mastering mindful spending in 2026
1014.Feeling uneasy about a potential recession or job loss? In this episode of the Money Girl personal finance podcast, Laura explains how to navigate economic uncertainty using mindful spending. Learn why technical literacy and a rebalanced portfolio are your best defenses against a shaky market.Laura answers a critical listener question: Should you prioritize paying down high-interest debt or b
Creating financial independence with Farnoosh Torabi
1013. Laura interviews personal finance powerhouse Farnoosh Torabi to celebrate the upcoming Financial Independence Awareness Day. Farnoosh shares her journey from a cash-strapped journalist to a leading financial educator, offering a candid look at how she turned her "extra" ideas into a multi-book career and the top-rated So Money podcast.Key Takeaways:Financial independence is how you define it
How can I stop overpaying for home insurance?
1012. Feeling financially squeezed by the rising cost of homeowners insurance? Laura answers a listener’s question about how to pay less while maintaining coverage required by a lender. Find out how to protect your finances with home insurance without overpaying for it.We talk about:Underlying reasons why homeowners premiums are rising, especially in high-risk areas.Tips for saving by increasing h
New ways homeownership builds wealth
1011. While becoming a homeowner seems to get more difficult as home prices, mortgage interest rates, and home insurance premiums continue to rise, it’s essential to know how owning real estate can help you build wealth. Laura covers seven ways buying a home improves your finances. Whether you’re considering becoming a first-time homebuyer or ditching your home to be a renter, understanding some o
Lease or buy?–How to choose an affordable car (and fix an upside-down loan)
1010. Are you feeling "car poor" or trapped in an auto loan that costs more than your vehicle is worth? In this Finance Friday episode, Laura answers a listener's question about how to navigate an unaffordable car loan when you’re upside-down (negative equity).If you are looking to lower your monthly payments or are debating between a car lease vs. buying your next vehicle, you’ll learn the pros,
How to skip a budget and build more wealth
1009. Only 37% of Americans follow a formal budget—so if you hate spreadsheets, you’re in the majority. Whether you’re dealing with budget burnout, irregular income, or "vibes-based" spending, you can still reach your financial goals.In this episode, Laura breaks down how to manage money effectively without the restriction of a traditional budget. Learn how to shift your focus from tracking every
Should you use a 401(k) loan to buy a house? Pros, cons, and rules
1008. Thinking about raiding your retirement to fund a down payment? In this episode of Money Girl, Laura answers a question from Wendy, who’s considering taking a 401(k) loan to buy a home with 20% down. Learn the rules for using a retirement plan loan, its pros and cons, and alternatives for buying a home without borrowing from your retirement.Money Girl is a Quick and Dirty Tips Podcast, hosted
Navigating taxes with TurboTax expert Lisa Greene-Lewis
In this episode, Laura sits down with Lisa Greene-Lewis. She’s a TurboTax expert and CPA with over 20 years of experience in tax preparation and helping filers save money. Lisa’s also worked as a public auditor, controller, and been self-employed, so she understands common mistakes to avoid and tips for legally paying less tax.What We Discuss:New rules that reduce taxes and increase tax refunds fo
Rent vs. Buy: How to Build Wealth Whether You Lease or Own (Reissue)
Is homeownership still the "American Dream," or is it becoming a financial burden? With 81% of renters aspiring to own but 61% fearing they never will, the gap between renting and owning has never felt wider. However, the truth is that both paths can lead to significant wealth if you play your cards right.In this episode of Money Girl, Laura breaks down the persistent rent-versus-own debate. While
How Your Debt Compares With the Average American’s
With U.S. consumer debt hitting a record $18.8 trillion, it’s time to see how your balances measure up. In this episode, Laura breaks down average debt by age group and type—from Gen Z’s $35k average to Gen X’s $158k peak—to help you determine if your debt is "healthy" or a hurdle to retirement.Key Takeaways:The Big 4: Current averages for mortgages, auto loans, student loans, and credit cards.Deb
How to Invest When My 401(k) Fails Nondiscrimination?
1005. Is your company "returning" your retirement savings? In this episode, Laura answers a listener question from Jay P., who is frustrated that his contributions keep getting bounced back as taxable income.If you’re a high earner or a diligent saver, nothing is more frustrating than seeing your hard-earned 401(k) contributions returned to your checking account. But why does the IRS penalize you
Save Too Much? Fix Excess Retirement Contributions Penalty-Free
1004. This week, Laura explains how to identify and fix overcontributions to your 401(k), IRA, and HSA. You’ll learn the specific deadlines for 2026 to remove excess funds penalty-free and how to handle the tricky tax paperwork that follows.In This Episode: The Cost of Mistakes: Why IRAs and HSAs carry a 6% annual penalty for excess funds, and how 401(k) errors can lead to double taxation. 2026 Co
Is My Credit Mistake Permanent? How to Recover from Late Payments & Collections
1003. Is one missed payment going to haunt your mortgage application forever?On this Finance Friday, host Laura answers a listener's question about a recent late payment and the fear that it might ruin their chances of buying a home. If you’ve ever seen your credit score plummet due to a mistake, this episode is for you.Laura breaks down the "lifespan" of credit damage and reviews seven specific n
Tax Secrets for Real People, with Hannah Cole
1002. Taxes don’t have to be a source of shame or a "black box" of confusion. Whether you’re a lifelong artist, a side-hustler, or a traditional employee, understanding the tax code is the ultimate power move for your bank account.In this episode, Laura sits down with Hannah Cole, an Enrolled Agent, working artist, and founder of Sunlight Tax. Hannah specializes in bringing "tax literacy to the hu
The Gifting Tax Guide: How to Give Money to Family Tax-Free
1001. On this Finance Friday, I’m clearing up the massive confusion surrounding "gift taxes." Many people are terrified to help their loved ones because they fear a surprise tax bill, but the reality is that the thresholds are much higher than you think.Whether you're helping with a down payment, paying for a grandchild’s tuition, or simply sharing your wealth while you're around to see them enjoy
1,000 Episodes! 7 Smart Ways to Invest $1,000 in Your Future
1000. We made it to 1,000! To celebrate this massive milestone, Laura Adams is sticking with the "1,000" theme to help you make the most of your next windfall. Whether it’s a tax refund or a work bonus, discover seven high-impact ways to manage an extra $1,000—from building a bulletproof emergency fund to the power of a Roth IRA. Plus, stay tuned for special guest appearances and tips from long-ti
What Is the Best High-Yield Savings Account?
999. Laura reviews what you should know about using a high-yield savings account (HYSA) and six tips for choosing the best one.Find a transcript here. Have a money question? Send an email to money@quickanddirtytips.com or leave a voicemail at (302) 364-0308.Find Money Girl on Facebook and Twitter, or subscribe to the newsletter for more personal finance tips.Money Girl is a part of Quick and Dirt
Is the 4% Rule Dead? 8 Personal Finance Rules of Thumb Explained
998. How much do you really need to retire? Should you always buy term life insurance? In episode 998, Money Girl Laura Adams audits 8 popular financial rules of thumb to see if they hold up in today’s economy.What you’ll learn: The Rule of 72: How to calculate when your money will double. The DIME Method: A smarter way to calculate life insurance than "10x your income." Emergency Fund Math: Why 3
Is Your Bank Account at Risk? 10 Dangerous Places to Never Use a Debit Card
997. A single swipe could drain your checking account. Laura Adams reveals 10 dangerous situations where using a debit card exposes you to unlimited liability and how to protect your hard-earned cash from cybercriminals and skimmers.Find a transcript here. Have a money question? Send an email to money@quickanddirtytips.com or leave a voicemail at (302) 364-0308.Find Money Girl on Facebook and Twit
Wallet Audit: 9 Items to Remove Right Now
996. This week, Laura reviews nine things you should never carry in your wallet to protect your identity and finances. Find a transcript here. Have a money question? Send an email to money@quickanddirtytips.com or leave a voicemail at (302) 364-0308.Find Money Girl on Facebook and Twitter, or subscribe to the newsletter for more personal finance tips.Money Girl is a part of Quick and Dirty Tips.Li
7 Tips to Protect Expensive Valentine’s Jewelry
995. Laura explains how to protect your expensive jewelry or any new Valentine’s Day bling you received.Find a transcript here. Have a money question? Send an email to money@quickanddirtytips.com or leave a voicemail at (302) 364-0308.Find Money Girl on Facebook and Twitter, or subscribe to the newsletter for more personal finance tips.Money Girl is a part of Quick and Dirty Tips.Links:https://www
15 Ways to Stop Impulse Spending and Save More (Reissue)
904. Laura reviews strategies to resist impulsive spending so you can save more money and achieve your financial goals faster.Find a transcript here. Have a money question? Send an email to money@quickanddirtytips.com or leave a voicemail at (302) 364-0308.Find Money Girl on Facebook and Twitter, or subscribe to the newsletter for more personal finance tips.Money Girl is a part of Quick and Dirty
Should I Invest Extra Money or Pay Down My Mortgage? (Reissue)
836. Laura answers a listener’s question about whether to invest extra money or use it to pay down a mortgage for the best long-term benefits.Find a transcript here. Have a money question? Send an email to money@quickanddirtytips.com or leave a voicemail at (302) 364-0308.Find Money Girl on Facebook and Twitter, or subscribe to the newsletter for more personal finance tips.Money Girl is a part of
Retirement for Two: The 2026 Spousal IRA Rules
994. This week, Laura reviews updated rules for using a spousal IRA, who can use one, and how they help keep your own retirement account growing.Find a transcript here. Have a money question? Send an email to money@quickanddirtytips.com or leave a voicemail at (302) 364-0308.Find Money Girl on Facebook and Twitter, or subscribe to the newsletter for more personal finance tips.Money Girl is a part
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