Ask Terry Archives
Medicare part D as discussed with Steve Bertrand on WGN Noon show this last week
You said that there was a site we could go to and put in the meds and dosages and the site would tell us which plan would be the least expensive. Can you direct me to that site? Thanks
Financial Organizer
Can I still download your Personal financial Organizer form? I couldn't find it on your home page.
College scholarships
Money investments
Hi Terry, Heard u in wgn. We have about $$50,000 invested in CDs. Thats the only investment we have. Its returns are about nothing. We are retired & would like to invest in something thats not risky. Thank you, Linda Sloan
credit cards
How do I go about canceling credit cards I haven't used in years and don't intend to use again? I have 2 that I use if needed but have a few I never use. Thank you.
College Student Cashing Bonds
My son is in his 3rd year of college and is interested in studying abroad next semester. When he was born, he received a bunch of EE Bonds, some of the bonds have his name and some have my name listed, but were for him. Should he cash in those bonds to help pay for…
401 Stable Value Funds
All 401 programs must have a "safe fund"....a money market fund or stable value fund. How safe are stable value funds today regarding: 1. Reliablity of the credit rating agencies re. the swap issuers, 2. Financial condition of the swap issuers, 3. Quality of mortgage backed and other securities bought by the Stable Value Fund…
RMD reinvestment
I am 70 1/2 and required to begin withdrawing from my IRAs. I have a pension, have no debts, and do not, at this time, need the RMD funds. I do not have long term health insurance and, although in good health, am conerned with the future. Therefore, I would like to continue to invest…
Credit card debt, soon no place to live
Hi Terry!! My husband and I rent. He got hurt at work and was out for 6 months. During that time I couldn't keep up w all our bills and got way behind on our rent and credit cards. We finally paid off our past due rent of 5000 but now our landlord tells us…
401k
What is the best thing to do with your employers 401k account when you retire and leave the company?
Crypto-currencies like Bitcoin
I've been hearing a lot about crypto-currencies lately. They seem to be the latest version of Bitcoin. What can you tell us? Thx! Mar H.
Social security
Hi Terry, What book do you recommend about social security that is easy to read and understand? Thank you so much, Lynda
Annuity quotes
I believe it was you some time ago that mentioned a person that had a web site for annuities where there was little or reduced fees. Could you supply that web address please. I thought I book marked it but I cannot find it. Thanks
Parent’s Plus Loan
$60,000 in parent's plus loan - first payment due November, 2017. Would like to pay off with 401K loan, re-finance mortgage?
International stocks (traded on Aussie Exchange)
I’d received stocks from an Australian company as part of my compensation package, years ago. 5 years ago I cashed in a portion when the company split… no problem. I am beginning my own business and require some funds so would like to cash in the remaining. It is like “night and day” compared to…
investment in commercial mortgage bridge loans?
I'm 67 still working self-employed. Slowing down though. What do you think on this investment vehicle: Commercial mortgage bridge loans.com. They promise 6% interest on a minimum of 50 k investment tied up for 1 year, principal returned after 1 year or rolled over, your choice. Have you heard of them. Should I be leery.
senior debt
HI I contacted Debt Counsel for Seniors and the Disabled for my mother, but they are closed. She has a very large credit card bill and her monthly minimum payment is almost $500. I had hoped DCSD could help. Is there another option? Thank you. Therese McMahon
Credit joint account removal !
Hi Terry good morning !I just recently was added to my wife's credit card, Honestly I don't know why I did it my credit score is really good like 740 I thought it would help my credit by increasing my line of credit But I actually lost 8 points when it was reported now I'm…
Social Security and teacher retirement
I will be retiring within a couple years. My wife is a retired Illinois grade school teacher. When I finally file for my Social Security benefits, will she also be able to file for spousal benefits based on my employment record?
Fixed Indexed Annuity
I am nearing retirement and was one of the first 5 callers to win a $3000 consultation for free on a radio show. After going they were promoting a fixed index annuity. It sound really good with no loss but limited up side.what's your opinion on these annuity's?