SmartMoney

Should College Savings Be in a Parent or Child’s Name?

Question: When saving for college, is it better to have money in the child’s name or a parent’s name? How does this affect financial aid?

What Taxes Must a Foreign National Pay?

Question: My husband is a foreign national. What taxes will he pay if he inherits my assets—a whole life insurance policy and a 403(b) account?

Is it Risky to Put All My Investments With One Firm?

Question: My wife and I are retired and in our mid-60s, and I want to consolidate all of our investments—my 401(k) and two IRAs—under one roof. Are we putting ourselves at risk if everything is at one firm?

Can I Write Off Losses From a Rental Property Sale?

Question: I recently sold a rental property for less than half of what I paid for it. Can I write off the loss? — Lillie Lewis, Memphis

As a Recent College Grad, How Do I Find a Financial Adviser?

I’ve recently started my first post-college job and am saving for retirement, but I’d like some help with the rest of my money matters. How do I find a financial adviser?

How Do I Get a Manufacturer to Honor Its Warranty?

Question: The windows I purchased for my home came with a 10-year warranty, but after 16 months, the seal broke, causing problems. The manufacturer is ignoring my calls and letters. What’s my recourse?

– Victor Palacios, Staten Island, N.Y.

Should I Stay With No-Fee Funds in My IRA?

Question: I have an IRA with my spouse’s employer, and I pay no fees as long as I trade only select funds. But my profits have only been 2 percent in the past 18 months. Should I make a switch or stick with no-fee funds?

– David Hippensteel, Milwaukee

How Much Can I Contribute to Both My 401(k) and 403(b)?

Question: I contribute to a 401(k) and a 403(b). How do I calculate the maximum limit I’m allowed to contribute? Is it per account or per individual? My 401(k) contribution could also be made to a Roth account within the plan.

– Lisa Simmons, Lincoln, Neb.

What’s the Best Way to Trade Binary Options?

Question: Is there a safe way to day-trade binary options? How do you find a reputable broker?

– Robert DiNunzio, Brockton, Mass.

What Can I Deduct When Moving for Work?

Question: I will be accepting a full time position approximately 165 miles from my current home though my wife will continue to reside there. I plan to rent an apartment where I’ll be living permanently and I’ll have to move some of my belongings. I will probably make one trip back home each month at the most. I will also have to purchase a new computer and television set for work purposes. What portion, if any, of the monthly rental and/or moving costs in the new city would be deductible?

– Ross Steiner, Los Angeles, Calif.