Author: Stacy Johnson CPA

I'm the founder of Money Talks News and have spent the last 40+ years in the personal finance trenches. I'm a CPA, author of a few books and multiple Emmy recipient. I'm married to a woman I don't deserve, have an awesome dog and live on the water in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Ask Stacy: What Are the Best Ways to Save on Moving?

Stacy Johnson CPA on December 20, 2017

Moving — whether across town or across the country — is no picnic. Here are three tips that will make it a little easier, and a lot cheaper.

Ask Stacy: How Do I Invest for Retirement Without Risk?

Stacy Johnson CPA on December 19, 2017

You want retirement savings to grow, but can’t afford to take a bunch of risk: What’s an older investor to do?

6 Important Take-Aways From the Tax Reform Effort

Stacy Johnson CPA on December 19, 2017

The new tax law does more than shake up our system. It also shines a light on whom politicians are actually working for. Hint: It isn’t you.

Ask Stacy: Should I Buy a Fixer-Upper Home?

Stacy Johnson CPA on December 18, 2017

Is it better to buy a home that needs work? I’ve done it many times. Here’s what I’ve learned.

Ask Stacy: Should I Wait Until 70 for Social Security?

Stacy Johnson CPA on December 15, 2017

Which is better: getting your Social Security benefits at the first opportunity, or waiting until you’re 70? The answer: It depends.

Ask Stacy: Should I Keep Repairing My Old Car or Replace It?

Stacy Johnson CPA on December 14, 2017

We’ve all been there: Your car is starting to need a lot of expensive repairs, but you’re not sure when it’s time to throw in the towel. When is enough enough?

Should Everyone Have a Prenup?

Stacy Johnson CPA on December 12, 2017

Some experts say all lovebirds considering marriage should get a prenuptial agreement. But is that really good advice?

Ask Stacy: Should I Buy Bitcoin?

Stacy Johnson CPA on December 12, 2017

Bitcoin has risen from around $700 to nearly $20,000 this year. Too late to get in or time to climb onboard? Here’s what I think.

Tax Reform: 5 Things They’re Not Telling You

Stacy Johnson CPA on November 4, 2017

Listen to the sponsors of the new tax bill, and it’s all wine and roses. Here’s what they’re not telling you.

Calendar with pushpin on "payoff credit cards" note

Ask Stacy: Should I Take Advantage of Zero Percent Credit Card Offers?

Stacy Johnson CPA on October 27, 2017

Everyone wants to pay zero, but what’s the catch? Before you apply, read this.

Older couple looking at computer, papers.

Ask Stacy: How Can We Earn More on Our Savings?

Stacy Johnson CPA on October 13, 2017

These retirees need more income, but they can’t afford to take any risk. Sound familiar? Here are six ideas to explore.

Why Can’t I Refinance My Home?

Stacy Johnson CPA on October 6, 2017

She’s got good credit, but her lender refuses to refinance her mortgage. If it would lower her payments, why wouldn’t they be happy to do it? Here’s some sound advice for anyone who borrows.

Woman with widow's veil talking to lawyer

Ask Stacy: Should I Drop My Life Insurance Policy?

Stacy Johnson CPA on September 29, 2017

Life insurance isn’t to protect you, it’s to protect those you love. If those you love don’t need protection, then you don’t need life insurance. Here’s how to know when to cancel.

Push in Congress Would Make Firms Like Equifax Hurt Less for Hurting Americans

Stacy Johnson CPA on September 26, 2017

Even as details of massive Equifax data breach surface, some lawmakers are trying to gut consumer protections in the credit industry.

New! Solutions to Common Financial Struggles for People 50 and Older

Stacy Johnson CPA on September 24, 2017

We’ve partnered with the largest nonprofit consumer counseling agency in the country to offer solutions to the most common financial struggles facing seniors including Medicare assistance, debt and budget counseling, Social Security maximization, help with paying bills, reverse mortgage counseling and foreclosure prevention.