What’s the key to being merry and wise this holiday season? The ability to enjoy all the face time you want with people outside your household while still practicing social distancing. Video chat apps have become household names this year as Americans turned to them for virtual gatherings throughout the year. Most of these apps are free with some restrictions, either limiting the number of people who can attend or slapping on a time limit for your free session. Of the four video chat apps whose restrictions we describe here, only Facetime works exclusively on Apple products. The three remaining apps can be used on any device.
- Facetime: Facetime is free for anyone with an Apple device (it's pre-installed on iPhones and iPads).
- GoToMeeting: It's free for a two-week trial (credit card not required for trial.) Outside of that, professional use is $12 a month and businesses are charged $16 a month.
- Skype: Skype offers a free link to host a gathering for up to 50 people. International chats cost $2.99-$7.99 a month, depending on the country.
- Zoom: Zoom offers unlimited time for two users. For three or more users, there's a 40-minute time limit or $14.99 a month for unlimited time.
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
-
-
Being Rich vs. Being Wealthy: What’s the Difference?
It’s all about where you put the zeros — having a large bank account isn’t the same as having zero regrets and focusing on what brings you joy.
-
Stock Market Today: Stocks Close Higher in Volatile Session
The major indexes spent most of Thursday in rally mode, but selling pressure emerged in afternoon trading.
-
As the Market Falls, New Retirees Need a Plan
retirement If you’re in the early stages of your retirement, you’re likely in a rough spot watching your portfolio shrink. We have some strategies to make the best of things.
-
Retirees: Your Next Companion May Be a Robot
happy retirement Robots may help fill the gap left by a shortage of humans to help older adults live independently.
-
Using Your 401(k) to Delay Getting Social Security and Increase Payments
retirement Your 401(k) can be a bridge from retirement to higher monthly income.
-
How Do I Stop Robocalls From Scamming Me?
retirement The scammers have automated their efforts to separate you from your money. We have ways to make it stop.
-
A Kiplinger-ATHENE Poll: Retirees Are Worried About Money
Making Your Money Last Concerns about recession, inflation and health care costs weigh on retirees and near retirees.
-
Grandparent Scams Get Victims in Their Hearts
Scams If you get a call from someone who claims to be your grandchild in trouble and needing money right away, be wary. Don’t send any money or give any information until you verify the story.
-
Tech Support Fraud Targets Seniors
retirement Get a message offering help with a computer problem you didn’t think you had? It’s probably a scammer looking for your money and personal information
-
What to Do With Money in a Former Employer’s 401(k)
Basics Leave it behind, move it to your new job’s plan, or roll it over to an IRA. Each of the options has pros and cons.
