Dear Bruce: I recently remarried after being single for 12 years. My kids are 20 and 17. The oldest is finishing her second year in college. I make $65,000 a year, and we have taken out loans for her studies.

This year, my new husband does not want me to take on more debt because he is debt- free. I want to make sure my children get educated. We have a combined income of $300,000 a year. I don't want my husband to pay for their education. What are my options for the best loans for my children? Am I missing some opportunity for them to obtain monies? If I pay cash for their tuition, do we have tax benefits? If not, what is the best thing for me to do for the kids? I do have my other home in my name only, in case I need to sell it for their security. — D.K., via e-mail

Dear D.K.: You guys don't have any financial problems, only some disagreement as to how your funds should be handled. Why not follow the traditional path of the husband supporting the family? That would mean that you would have his income to support the family and, with your $65,000, you should be able to put your children through school comfortably. I still believe that the kids ought to take out some loans. This education is for them, so why make it totally painless? But that's up to you. I'm also wondering if you guys have a prenuptial agreement. If not, you might consider a post-nup since there are obvious differences as to how money should be spent and what debts should be entered into.

Dear Bruce: What is the correct amount to set as a goal for retirement? What components are included in the calculations? — P.T., via e-mail

Dear P.T.: Your question is similar to asking "How high is up?" These are subjective terms. An achievable and livable goal for one person could be neither achievable nor livable for someone else, but calculating the components is a little simpler.

Calculate what your needs are while you're employed and while you are going toward retirement. How much money does it take to support your current lifestyle? Would that be satisfactory? At least that would give you some parameters. In general, one can predict that you will need at least 80 percent of the income that you have during your working years to retire comfortably.