In this issue

MONEY MOVES TO MAKE NOW - Take these steps before New Year’s Day and you can save on taxes, improve your credit, fine-tune your portfolio and boost your retirement savings. PLUS: What to consider if you worked remotely in 2020.

HOW TO INVEST FOR A WEAKER DOLLAR - Foreign currencies are gaining strength against the buck. While that’s bad for tourists, it can be good for investors. We spotlight companies and funds that stand to benefit when profits earned overseas are converted into greenbacks.

FINANCIAL FIRMS THAT TREAT YOU LIKE - A STAR Great customer service isn’t a given, so companies that deliver it deserve recognition. That’s why we’re introducing our list of banks, credit card issuers, mortgage lenders, and home and auto insurers that offer red-carpet service.

R.I.P. 60-40 PORTFOLIO

The old standby allocation of 60% stocks and 40% government bonds might not work for buy-and-hold investors anymore.

2 mins

HOW TO INVEST FOR A WEAKER DOLLAR

The greenback is fading—but that doesn’t mean your portfolio has to.

10+ mins

Our Favorite Dividend Stocks

In a wacky year, payouts from our income picks held steady.

9 mins

Make the Bank Pay You More

This brutal year has been horrendous for those who hold stock in banks and related financial companies. But just as daily life shall improve for society, the same is true for bank shares.

3 mins

How We Lose When We Overlook Black Talent

Comments from the Wells Fargo CEO reflect a culture that tramples on clients’ trust and limits opportunities for people of color.

3 mins

ESTATE PLANNING DURING THE PANDEMIC

Here’s how to prepare for the worst in this terrible, horrible, no good, very bad year.

10+ mins

What You'll Pay for Medicare in 2021

Look for modest increases in premiums and out-of-pocket costs.

2 mins

Keeping an Eye on Future Returns

Here’s what experts see ahead—and way ahead—for the performance of stocks and bonds.

5 mins

How to Negotiate a Break on Rent

It’s the first of the month, and you know what that means: The rent is due. But if the cost of your rent gives you sticker shock each month (as mine does), you may be able to get relief.

3 mins

Financial Service Firms That Treat You Like a Star

As a personal finance publication, we spend a lot of time evaluating the numbers when we recommend financial institutions and their products. We spotlight banks that offer high-interest rates and low fees on checking and savings accounts, and we note credit card issuers that provide ample cash back or points on everyday spending. When you’re in the market for a mortgage, we encourage you to shop for a low-interest rate, and we advise you to regularly compare premiums on home and auto insurance policies. // But many would argue that exceptional customer service is just as important as low fees or competitive interest rates. An insurance company is worth its weight in gold if its agents are responsive and fair when you’re dealing with a damaged car or home. A mortgage lender that helps pave the way to a smooth close on a home purchase can save you a lot of headaches. And banks and credit card issuers with strong customer service teams can quickly put a lid on fraudulent activity or other problems with your accounts.

10+ mins

Read all stories from Kiplinger's Personal Finance

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