Humberto Cruz
Personal finance columnist Humberto Cruz and his wife, Georgina, did what many people dream about but believe can't be done: Retire from full-time work in their 50s on middle-class salaries, buy a new home on the beach and still have a nest egg of $2 million left. In his personal finance column, "The Savings Game," syndicated by Tribune Media Services, Cruz explores common-sense ways to manage money and build wealth.
A native of Cuba who came to the United States with only $300 in his pocket, Cruz practices the basic rules he promotes through his down-to-earth, easy-to-understand columns: Spending less than you make, investing wisely for the long term, being savvy with credit and making tax-smart decisions. Cruz closely follows trends and draws on a national network of outstanding sources to provide the most up-to-date, useful information.
Cruz worked as a writer and an editor for the South Florida Sun-Sentinel for 30 years. "The Savings Game" began at the Sun-Sentinel in 1990 and now appears in newspapers across the country. Cruz also wrote a syndicated column "The Mutual Funds Wire" between 1997 and 2000 before retiring from full-time work. Together with Georgina, a nationally known travel writer and author, Humberto also wrote "Retire Smart," a syndicated column for savvy retirees and boomers on the road to retirement, from 2001 to 2007.
In 2006, Moneysmartz.com named Cruz one of its best personal finance columnists for financial planning, savings commentary and advice.
Humberto Cruz Samples
Avoid IRA Tax Pitfalls
Two readers ask about protecting their nest eggs from the taxman -- you can do it sometimes, but not always -- and another offers sage advice for avoiding surprises and protecting your savings: Q: I took money out of my traditional IRA for several...
Five-Year Rule for Roth IRA Withdrawals: A Primer
I've never seen so much confusion about a financial topic as with the five-year rule for Roth IRA withdrawals.
Hard Times Triggering A Spike in Consumer Fraud
A California woman deep in credit card debt turned to a debt settlement company that immediately began deducting money from her bank account for its promised services.
Costly 'Add-On' Insurance More About Profits Than Benefits
For a pair of $199 shatterproof eyeglasses -- the lenses won't break but they may scratch -- the saleslady asked twice whether I wanted six-month insurance for $24.99 or a whole year for $34.99. Thanks, but no thanks.
Don't Be Intimidated by Medicare Labyrinth of Letters
After applying online at www.socialsecurity.gov, I got a letter from the government saying I was entitled to Medicare Parts A and B as of Aug. 1, the first day of the month I turn 65.
Financial Reform Bill Sorely Lacks Fiduciary Standard
We don't have to wait six months despite what Congress did. Just ask your advisor to agree -- in writing -- to adhere to five principles espoused by The Committee for the Fiduciary Standard, a group of nationally known and respected advisers.
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