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
Risk, return and time: Key variables in the money-managing equation
One of the most important realizations in personal finance, beyond what’s to gain and lose, is understanding that time is a critical and scarce resource.
May 3, 2025
Don’t shred tax materials yet — there’s still valuable financial insight to gain
While the filing deadline has passed, the information you gathered can help you make better money decisions than last year.
April 26, 2025
Trump tariffs whipped up a deluge of financial advice. Here’s how to interpret it.
From current CEO Vitaliy Katsenelson to financier J.P. Morgan and economist Paul Samuelson, the best money-management advice has always been staying true to who you are.
April 19, 2025
Chris Farrell: Living frugally in the long term helps weather short-term economic downturns
You can’t control President Donald Trump, the stock markets or the economy. But you can take practical steps to navigate the turmoil, including reviewing your household budget.
April 12, 2025
As tuition costs and student debt rise, many question if college is worth it
Data proves postsecondary education, whether that’s an associate or bachelor’s degree, does increase a student’s earning potential.
April 5, 2025
Unfounded attacks on Social Security Administration could impact retirees
Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficency have targeted the most successful social policy program in modern U.S. history.
March 22, 2025
Advertisement
Many workers also become caregivers, so plan for it financially
In a recent survey, the majority of employees who are or have been caregivers have made at least one work-related adjustment, like missing days of work or reducing hours.
March 15, 2025
Taxable, tax-deferred, tax-free: How to diversify your retirement portfolio
Smart retirement planning involves taking advantage of the differing tax treatments on accumulated savings.
March 8, 2025
U.S. Treasuries remain safe bet for your money despite economic, political uncertainty
Trust in the creditworthiness of U.S. Treasuries has eroded somewhat.
March 1, 2025
A financial plan to guide late-life decisions will help weather unpredictable future
Retirement or semi-retirement is a complicated transition involving many financial and lifestyle decisions, and it pays to create a comprehensive plan.
February 8, 2025
When it comes to AI, invest in education and skills to remain relevant
The personal finance answer to artificial intelligence is to invest in your education, skills and knowledge.
February 1, 2025
There’s no shortage of good ideas for improving the U.S. retirement system
From Jimmy Carter’s administration to a bipartisan proposal in 2023, many lawmakers and economists have tried to help Americans save money for their senior years.
January 25, 2025
Advertisement
Advertisement