Jennifer's Compass

Finding good rates and social security "claim and suspend"

Questions this week focused on increasing income. Where and how to get the best interest rates and also how to max social security with a strategy called "claim and suspend"

Cash for clunkers: Is it worth it?

(NECN) - There has been much talk about the government's cash for clunkers program, but is the incentive enough to make buying a new car worth it for you?

NECN In Focus: Managing your student loans

Heads-up college grads. July 1st was the start of a new income based repayment plan. If you've got Federal student loans and are working for low wages, this program might help with your payments.

Are you heading back or starting college soon? This segment includes tips on how to manage your school costs so loan payments are manageable when you graduate.

Ask Jennifer: Buying annuities and trusting your advisor

(NECN) - Two viewers had questions about their investments this week.

Sue in Somerville:

I'm in my late 30's, and have maxed out my 401K and IRA. I've been told to put some of my savings into a retirement annuity. It has a low annual annuity charge of 0.35 percent per year. I'm tempted to invest, except I've always been warned against annuities.

Joan in Wellesley:

I have accounts with two separate trust companies. They send me statements each month, but how can I tell that they are doing what's best for me?

NECN Credit card changes...are you ready?

(NECN) - Today In Focus, credit card changes. Borrower beware: The credit card companies are making changes ahead of a new law designed to protect consumers.

NECN Ask Jennifer: Indexes, annuities and student loans

(NECN) Three great questions this week: index shares vs index funds, what to do with an old annuity (can you guess what I said?!), and how to get in on the Fed's new income-based student loan repayment program. If you're drowning in loan payments this program is worth looking into.

NECN answers your financial questions

(NECN) - From 401k parties to protecting credit reports, NECN viewers have a variety of questions this week.

NECN In Focus: Estate Planning

(NECN) - The fight over Michael Jackson's estate and custody of his children is playing out in public. So, how can you make sure everything will be handled the way you want it after you are gone?