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Dear readers: Today I'm departing from my usual format to share with you my greatest wish for the new year and the next decade: that as a nation, we will come together to unleash the tremendous power of financial literacy.

When asked about financial literacy, most people think of a classroom with lessons in budgeting, credit and debt, and ...Read more

Dear Readers, at the beginning of each new year, I'm filled with a sense of new direction. At the same time, I like to look back at the previous year, evaluate what worked and make a fresh commitment to keep going on whatever path proved most successful.

One of the things that was a real boost to me last year was a 30-day food cleanse that left...Read more

Dear Readers: It's hard to believe we're already in 2020. But rather than lament the passing of time, I like to think of a new decade as a time of renewal -- a chance to look at what you've accomplished and what you still want to achieve.

Especially when it comes to financial security, the new year is a perfect opportunity to review where you...Read more

Dear Readers: If I were to ask couples to name the top three things that keep them together, I don't imagine that shared knowledge and interest in their finances would make the list. Yet money is often cited as one of the main causes of divorce. A recent survey by Policygenius found that 1 in 5 people say their partner is financially ...Read more

Dear Carrie: I would like to gift a portion of my stock to my daughter. Do I have to sell it first, or can I simply gift it in the amount allowed this year? Also, I want her to hold on to it until she retires or has a real need for the money. Is that possible? -- A Reader

Dear Reader: This is an excellent and somewhat complicated question ...Read more

Dear Carrie: For the past three years, my 29-year-old daughter has been working for a good company that offers a 401(k), but she still hasn't started to contribute. She says she can't afford it. How can I convince her to get going? -- A Reader

Dear Reader: I wish I had enough space in this column to share with your daughter the myriad stories...Read more

Dear Carrie: I'd like to set up an educational fund for my new grandchild. I understand the tax benefits of a 529 account but am also interested in gifting appreciated stock. What are your thoughts? -- A Reader

Dear Reader: Congratulations on your new grandchild! I also applaud your generosity. What a fortunate child to have such a supportive ...Read more

Dear Reader: It seems we hear the word "gratitude" a lot these days. In spite of being faced with all kinds of challenges, the idea of being grateful for what you have -- whether it's family, friends, financial security or just a beautiful moment -- appears to be a common theme. I like that concept, and I like the idea of using it as a way to ...Read more

Dear Carrie: Despite our many advances, it seems like women still fall behind men when it comes to money. Is that true? And what can we do to catch up? -- A Reader

Dear Reader: Your question is spot on because, yes, women are still behind men financially. And yes again, there are definitely things we can -- and must -- do to catch up.

The ...Read more

Dear Readers: It's the rare person who doesn't occasionally fall into some poor financial habits that can lead to potentially scary results. This fall, make sure you're not tricking yourself into a financial bind. Rather, treat yourself to greater security by reviewing these 10 personal finance "gotchas" and making any necessary changes. The ...Read more

Dear Carrie: My wife and I are both over 63 and want to purchase a primary residence for our retirement. Can we use money from our individual retirement account for the down payment? If so, are there any tax issues? -- A Reader

Dear Reader: It's great that you and your wife are thinking ahead about where you'll live in retirement. We often ...Read more