Many basic principles about saving and investing don’t change. But plenty of other things do, including the economy, tax law and employment trends. So we asked leading personal finance experts to share with us the best money advice they ever received, as well as what they would tell today’s new graduates. Here are their responses, edited for length and clarity: Michelle Singletary Michelle Singletary (photo courtesy of Michelle Singletary) Washington Post personal finance columnist and author of “The 21 Day…

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Most financial literacy efforts in schools don’t improve people’s behavior later in life. That could be because we’re focusing on the wrong things. Trying to teach teenagers how to shop for a mortgage, for example, may be an exercise in futility. The information simply isn’t relevant to them — yet. By the time they are ready to buy a home, the loans available and the rules surrounding them may have changed. Instead, we should be teaching kids the habits that make…

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Over the past few years, Meghaan Lurtz has had to turn down two destination bachelorette parties for dear friends. She was in graduate school and didn’t have the money to go. “It felt really crappy, because these are people that I know and I love and I care about, and I absolutely wanted to be there,” she says. “But finances are what they are. You have a budget, and budgets have restraints.” Lurtz is the president-elect of the Financial Therapy…

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Tax season — and tax refunds — can be a financial lifeline for many Americans. But the season can pose challenges for those who owe money to the IRS. Over 18 million Americans owed taxes in September 2014, according to the most recent data from the IRS. Meanwhile, an estimated 10 million face tax penalties each year, the IRS found. Here are three tips to help you handle your tax debt to lessen penalties and properly resolve your obligation. 1….

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The proposal was perfect. You’ve told friends and family the exciting news and shared pictures of the sparkly new ring on Instagram. Now it’s time to plan the wedding. Setting a realistic budget is a smart first step. But throwing out a number is one thing; sticking to it is the hard part. According to The Knot’s 2017 Real Weddings Study, 45% of couples who married in 2017 reported spending more than they had planned. “The last thing you want to do is…

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We’re used to hearing stories of triumphant Olympians overcoming all odds to achieve their dreams. But for many, staying afloat financially is a lesser-known hurdle as they ski, skate, jump, flip and twirl their way to gold. NerdWallet talked to athletes competing in the 2018 Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea — and one former Olympian — about all things money: how they make ends meet; the financial products they use; and their money stressors, challenges and sacrifices. Stacey Cook, alpine…

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Roses are red. Violets are blue. Flowers are overdone. So what’s a gift giver to do? If you’re out of ideas or on a tight budget, try these tips to help you select a Valentine’s Day gift for Feb. 14. Give a surprise getaway The best Valentine’s Day gift is a surprise getaway or experience, says Pepper Schwartz, a University of Washington professor and author of “Frommer’s/AARP Places for Passion: The 75 Most Romantic Destinations in the World — and Why Every Couple…

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We asked NerdWallet’s money experts what books they recommend for achieving common financial goals. Peruse their responses below to find your first read. 1. To save more, read: “Your Money or Your Life” by Vicki Robin and Joe Dominguez with Monique Tilford “Everyone should read ‘Your Money or Your Life,’ a book that encompasses savings, paying off debt and how ordinary people can achieve financial independence. It’s especially helpful for people who want to retire early or simplify their lives, but its…

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The season of dieting and renewed gym memberships is upon us, but your New Year’s resolutions don’t have to benefit only you. Here are three low-effort ways you and your wallet can help spread social good in 2018. » Want to see more? Here’s a list of our stories about how you can have a social impact with your money 1. Join a socially responsible bank If you’ve ever wondered how banks make money, here’s part of the answer: They use your deposits…

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Another new year, another chance for well-intentioned resolutions to start with a bang and fizzle out. But unlike failing to drop those last five pounds, falling short on financial goals you’re banking on in 2018 could cost you for years to come. Generally, attainable goals follow the SMART approach: They’re specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time-based. But that doesn’t mean attainable goals are all easy. A recent study indicates certain money goals that fit these criteria can remain challenging for some who are striving…

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