In the latest installment of Ask Farnoosh, I answer your questions related to paying off a mortgage, managing money in a relationship, retirement savings and managing a windfall. Questions listed below.

And congrats to Bill for winning this week’s 15 minute money session giveaway. Here’s his review:

“Farnoosh has an engaging, non-judgmental approach delivered in a high quality format. Her comfortable interviewing style consistently draws thoughtful responses and insights from her guests. A recurring topic with her guests involves money memories from childhood – that always elicits interesting stories and provides healthy food for thought for any parent raising kids. Check it out.”

Mary

Which is better? Paying off a 3.87% mortgage or otherwise using the cash to invest in something paying more percentage wise?

Elizabeth

My boyfriend and I have plans to live together within 6 months in NYC. I have a well-paid full time corporate job and he is starting a PhD program that will last about 5 years with a stipend that is significantly less than my salary. How should we split up the bills? Is there a benefit to entering a domestic partnership? Thanks!

Leslie

I am worried. I am 59 have $100,000 save for retirement due to being a single parent. I am now saving 12 percent of my salary which is $73K per yr.  My company has a 5 percent match. I would like to retire at 66 or 68 what do I need to do to make this possible ?

 JR

At the MOST basic level, where/how should I begin to invest?

Trish

I’m 44, Just found out I have 25k pension from job I was laid-off from in 2002. They’re offering me to rollover, cash out or leave it. I have about $11k cc debt, 1/2 of which is at 24.99% interest! I think I should  rollover some and use some to pay off that debt. What do you think?