I would either not respond at all, or my route is the just respond with a short thanks. That is what I do now if my X is telling me something I don't know. He lost his job and asked me if Iknow how to file the unemployment (yes, I do, I did it for him in the past). I told him I was sure if he calls the office they can help him. I politely push him away. That is what works for me.
As far as personal stuff, I would not respond at all.
Just my .02. XXX