Ask HTM - Acorns to Jumpstart Investing, Seasoning a Cash Gift, & Social Security Running Out #1027
whatshot 11 snips
Aug 25, 2025
Listener questions kick off a lively discussion on investing, specifically whether to use the Acorns app and the nuances of real estate investments. The looming issue of the Social Security Trust Fund depleting by 2033 is tackled, sparking insights on proactive savings. Also covered are the timing for cash gifts to improve credit scores and considerations around choosing financial advisors. With a sprinkle of humor, the hosts delve into smart shopping habits and the complexities of car and home purchases.
52:59
forum Ask episode
web_stories AI Snips
view_agenda Chapters
auto_awesome Transcript
info_circle Episode notes
question_answer ANECDOTE
Refund Win After A Bad Refurbished Watch
Joel bought a refurbished Apple Watch from Woot and it had poor battery life.
After pushing customer service he received a full refund and was allowed to keep the watch.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Start Investing Now, Then Upgrade Brokerages
If Acorns is the only tool that will get you investing, use it to start immediately.
Move to a low-cost brokerage (Fidelity, Vanguard, Schwab) once you understand basics to avoid high percentage fees.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Use Roths And Automate Contributions
Prioritize Roth IRAs and automated recurring contributions when starting to invest.
Use low-cost index funds and set monthly contributions to build consistent habits.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Let’s kick off the week with some fresh listener questions we have lined up for you! And don't just stand on the sidelines- if you have a question you’d like us to answer, toss your voice memo our way. It only takes about 90 seconds to record and you can find a step by step guide over at HowToMoney.com/ask . Regardless of how random or bizarre you might think it is, we want to hear it!
1 - Should I pay for Acorns to help me invest and what about real estate investing?
2 - How can I plan for the Social Security Trust Fund running out earlier than expected?
3 - Does it make sense to go with the financial advisor that my sister has recently hired?
4 - How long does a cash gift need to season in order for it to boost my credit score?
5 - FHA loan with a mortgage insurance premium vs waiting and saving up more?
Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
During this episode we enjoyed a Dawn Patroller by Hana Koi Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!