Chris Farrell
Columnist
Your MoneyChris Farrell is economics editor for American Public Media's weekly "Marketplace Money" show and author of "The New Frugality." He answers reader questions on most Sundays. Send questions to cfarrell@mpr.org and put "Your Money" in the subject line.
Latest from Chris Farrell
Charitable giving is on the rise in the U.S., a sign of sound money management
Total donations by individuals, bequests, foundations and corporations to nonprofit organizations in 2024 rose by 6.3% to a record $592.5 billion, according to the latest report from the Giving USA Foundation.
July 5, 2025
Amid messiness at the Social Security Administration, more people are taking benefits early
It pays to wait until you’re 70 to collect Social Security, but more are taking it in their early to mid 60s, opting for lower payouts.
June 28, 2025
Prime earning years often coincide with caregiving needs. Here’s how to navigate
Some employers offer benefits for both child and elder care, but many other resources are scarce.
June 21, 2025
Plan ahead to avoid financial, health care mistakes later in life
Early estate planning can pay off in the long run.
June 14, 2025
No place for cryptocurrency in retirement portfolios
Don’t fall for the siren song of cryptocurrencies: Crypto is a volatile asset with no legitimate economic purpose.
June 7, 2025
Despite expense, long-term financial return on bachelor’s degree still beats other options
In the short term, a two-year degree can pay off more quickly.
May 31, 2025
Warren Buffett’s retirement marks end of an investing advice era
Investing in Berkshire Hathaway starting in the mid-1960s would have netted you more than a billion dollars by now.
May 24, 2025
Department of Government Efficiency causing confusion about when to claim Social Security
Common advice is to delay as long as possible once you reach claiming age of 62 to 70.
May 10, 2025
No place for cryptocurrency in retirement portfolios
Don’t fall for the siren song of cryptocurrencies: Crypto is a volatile asset with no legitimate economic purpose.
June 7, 2025
Despite expense, long-term financial return on bachelor’s degree still beats other options
In the short term, a two-year degree can pay off more quickly.
May 31, 2025
Warren Buffett’s retirement marks end of an investing advice era
Investing in Berkshire Hathaway starting in the mid-1960s would have netted you more than a billion dollars by now.
May 24, 2025
Department of Government Efficiency causing confusion about when to claim Social Security
Common advice is to delay as long as possible once you reach claiming age of 62 to 70.
May 10, 2025