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For members of the "Sandwich Generation"—those currently in their 40s and 50s who are caring for children and their parents who are over 65 years old—estate planning may seem like a low priority. After all, when you're juggling...

For those approaching or in retirement, managing Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) is an essential part of your financial planning. Once you turn 73 (or 72 if your birthday was before January 1, 2023), the IRS requires you to...

When the economy slows down, everyday life starts to feel more expensive and a little more uncertain. Groceries may cost more. Job security feels shakier. Interest rates could climb. And suddenly, the financial cushion you once had...

Managing retirement strategies and creating goals can help you stay focused and consistent in your financial efforts. It creates a sense of achievement while you make progress toward the pursuit of a fulfilling retirement and financial...

In times of economic uncertainty, it’s easy to let financial stress overshadow everything else. And sadly, the holiday season isn't exempt from this. But here’s a little insight you might overlook: Holiday cheer might be a rewarding...

As a retiree, you've likely spent a lifetime planning ahead by saving for the future, guarding your health, and building a legacy. But while gifts of cash or keepsakes are always appreciated, there’s another gift to consider that’s...

Estate planning is also significantly relevant for single individuals without children. It is a protective measure that ensures assets are distributed according to one's wishes and helps minimize legal disputes among family members....

As the leaves begin to fall and the year winds down, autumn offers more than pumpkin spice and cozy sweaters. It’s also a good time to clean up your finances. Just like spring cleaning helps freshen your home, fall financial cleaning...

Navigating the probate process is a legal, mental, and emotional process. The combination of grief, legal terminology, and a potentially lengthy process can be overwhelming. However, it is possible to weather this challenging time with...

Saving for retirement is important for all ages, the key is to start early Land a great new job? Awesome. Now is the perfect time to think about your 401(k) and retirement plan, whether you had one before or not. Saving for retirement...

A high-yield savings account (HYSA) is one of the tools you may use to manage your money. When interest rates are significantly higher than those of traditional savings accounts, HYSAs may be used for building an emergency fund, saving...

An emergency fund is one of the most essential financial tools you can have in your financial toolbox. According to a CBS News report, 59% of Americans in 2025 don’t have enough savings to cover an unexpected emergency expense.[i] It...

Anyone involved in financial matters of any kind will have to deal with interest, either working for or against you. A quote often attributed to Albert Einstein provides readers with insight into the benefit or crutch of interest in...

Regardless of the business's size, small business owners have 401(k) retirement savings plan options that may be suitable for their situation. Business owners must plan for retirement by utilizing retirement savings vehicles that may...

Back-to-school season is always a busy time, but in 2025, it comes with a bigger-than-normal price tag. Between inflation, tariffs, and general economic uncertainty, everything from pencils to laptops may cost more this year. According...

It’s essential for parents to be proactive in supporting their kids’ well-being  In recent years, the burden of student loan debt has become an increasingly prevalent issue, significantly impacting individuals and the broader...

For many, the expenses of college or technical school can be overwhelming. But, with financial aid programs, tuition, room and board, books, and other college-related costs can become more affordable. To determine if your student...

Managing income effectively may set you up for long-term career success in healthcare. Whether you're just starting as a resident or building your career as a nurse or doctor, it's essential to have strong financial habits. This guide...

A critical aspect of retirement planning is understanding the rules and requirements surrounding Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from retirement savings accounts. An RMD is a mandatory minimum amount that retirement account...

Social Security is a vital component of retirement income for many. This government program provides monthly benefits and is funded primarily through payroll taxes. Understanding Social Security benefits and taxation is essential to...

When it comes to planning for retirement, there are a myriad of strategies and options available. One often overlooked method is making after-tax contributions into retirement savings vehicles. This approach to investing after-tax...

For employers navigating the complexities of retirement plan management, ensuring the competitiveness and reasonableness of 401(k) plan fees is paramount. As fiduciaries entrusted with safeguarding the financial interests of employees,...

As a small business owner, getting financing may be crucial to your success. However, with so many types of loans available, you may be unable to identify the appropriate one(s) for your business. Learn more about the most common types...

There are often red flags you may notice that indicate your parents have reached a point where they need help with their finances. At first, your parents might be resistant to this, believing they can still manage their financial lives...

While starting a new year might bring a time of reflection and renewal for many couples, for others, it’s filled with planning and implementation for exiting the relationship. January has been dubbed “Divorce Month.” At the beginning...

The end of the year is not just a season for celebration and reflection but also a perfect time to ensure that our finances are in order. This includes crucial aspects such as wrapping up all financial contributions before the year-end...

Before the year ends, it’s important to review your finances with a financial professional. Here’s a simple checklist of nine things to double-check to make sure you’re in good shape for the new year. Review Your Tax Withholdings If...

As a military family, you face challenges and opportunities in managing your finances. Planning for your financial future is important, regardless of where you are in your journey. Here are a few key financial considerations for...

Most people who have experienced a formal education probably have read the Herman Melville classic Moby Dick, the story of mad Captain Ahab, on a revenge quest to find the giant white whale that bit off his leg. If Captain Ahab was...

Nearly every American worker includes Social Security benefits as part of their comprehensive retirement plan. As a member of the workforce, you pay Social Security taxes, which earn you “credits,” that go toward your Social Security...

Most people looking forward to retirement anticipate years of relaxation and fulfillment after decades of hard work. But the reality of retirement is often far different. For many people, retirement may bring financial stress,...

Medicare is complex with many different moving parts involved. First and foremost, it is always beneficial to gain a solid understanding of your options. There are two main types of Medicare: Original Medicare Medicare Advantage (also...

Employer retirement plan committees hold a significant responsibility in managing and overseeing retirement plans. One of the critical aspects of this oversight is the periodic and formal evaluation of all plan providers, including...

While the debate over how big the September 18, 2024 Fed rate cut would be was settled (a half point, not a quarter), questions about where the Fed will go from here and what it might mean for the economy and markets will continue.

As a young person, you imagine you have all the time in the world to save for retirement. You live in the present with the future a mere blip out on the horizon. But time has a way of flying by, and you realize that maybe you are not...

Small businesses are typically seen as important to the economy. Not only did they lead the charge through the financial crisis by creating jobs and products, but they are also often small enough to innovate at a grassroots level and...

The 401(k) plan is an excellent way for HENRYs, high earners not rich yet, to save for retirement. Hitting the maximum contribution limit is a goal many work toward to reap the benefits of this tax-deferred saving strategy fully. But...

With fall upon us and students back in classrooms, it seems like a good time to reflect on the various tests that the U.S. economy and stock market have passed recently. When the economy and markets are tested, the foundation for...

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has recently taken significant steps to combat abusive partnership transactions, a move aimed at ensuring that high-income taxpayers and corporations pay their fair share of taxes. This announcement...

Auto-enrolling employees in a 401(k) plan can be highly advantageous for both the company and its employees. This policy, which automatically enrolls employees in the company's retirement savings plan, typically unless they opt out,...

Shopping for a life insurance policy doesn’t have to be confusing and overwhelming. If you take some time to understand the basics and how it works, you can better determine the coverage that may be beneficial for you and your family’s...

Every May, interest rates on federal student loans are reset for the upcoming school year. The rates are calculated by combining the yield on the 10-year U.S. Treasury note with an extra fixed amount set by Congress. Based on this...

Every so often we wake up to news reports of market volatility and global financial upheaval. Even though this is not unusual, we grow concerned and some investors panic as they watch their hard-earned money disappear before their eyes...

Education has become increasingly expensive for parents, especially for those hoping to help their children stave off the burden of massive student debt. This may include having to contend with soaring inflation, spikes in cost of...

Stocks must have gotten the memo that August tends to be weak historically. July, the eighth positive month in the past nine, was quickly forgotten as the beginning of August greeted us with a selloff. The primary catalyst was August...

If you're like some, you may have spent large parts of your working life missing the carefree summer days of your childhood. That is, of course, assuming you had a happy childhood. If not, try to imagine how it might be if your...

Stocks surged in the first half of 2024, fueled by tech gains and easing inflation. The S&P 500 notched its 7th monthly win in 8 months, reaching new highs.

Who doesn’t remember their first job, receiving your first paycheck, and even applying for and using a credit card for the first time? Access to money provides a sense of freedom and the ability to buy things you want with your own...

Building on our 2024 outlook, "A Turning Point," this midyear update dives deeper into the evolving economic and market environment, exploring its potential influence on your investment strategy.

Insurance is designed to provide coverage for some of life's biggest disasters—fire, floods, car crashes, disability, and death. But when you're on a tight budget, paying even a few extra dollars a month for an insurance policy you may...

With rising housing prices and interest rates, you may feel pressured to jump on the carousel to avoid being left behind. However, a home is one of the most expensive purchases most Americans will make, and you don't want to rush into...

Just because your military service is up doesn’t mean your benefits disappear. You spent many years of your life serving and protecting your country. With that sacrifice, you can access various benefits created to help you readjust to...

As a small business owner, having the right insurance coverage can be the difference between success and bankruptcy. While your specific insurance needs may vary widely depending on the nature of your business, there are several types...

In the realm of retirement planning, mutual funds stand as fundamental investment vehicles within 401(k) plans, offering participants access to diversified portfolios and professional fund management. However, the process of evaluating...

April showers brought May flowers as markets placed greater importance on economic growth and corporate profits than the “higher for longer” interest rate messages from the Federal Reserve (Fed). In fact, the S&P 500 ended May above...

You probably already know that insurance is something you should have in case of unforeseen events. When it comes to estate planning, insurance helps manage the distribution of your assets the way you see fit. It may also help prevent...

Small business owners face many challenges, which may become even more significant during inflation. As inflation hit new highs in recent years, small business owners are being tested and challenged by high costs and high interest...

The time has finally arrived: your child is preparing for college and getting ready to take that next big life step. It is an exciting time, but for many parents, the financial responsibility and impact on their wallets can be...

After a strong first quarter for stocks, some April showers rained down as the S&P 500 fell about 4% last month. Hopefully those showers will bring some flowers in May, despite the widely cited stock market adage, “Sell in May and go...

Over the past few years, the market has appeared to be on a rollercoaster, providing investors with moments of excitement followed by heart-palpitating anxiety. Staying ahead during uncertain market activity seems impossible, but smart...

Mothers are our teachers, starting from the time we are born and lasting throughout our lives. They have a role in teaching us how to be good people, take care of ourselves, and even be a success in the business world. Many small...

The average American worker will change jobs more than once in their lifetime. While there are multiple options such as leaving your 401(k) in your former plan if allowed, cashing out the account balance, or transferring the 401(k),...

Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) have emerged as a popular mechanism for companies to foster employee ownership and align the interests of employees with those of shareholders. For seasoned executives, considering participation...

Learning financial literacy, such as money management, budgeting, and investing, can seem daunting, but is no different than learning how to speak another language. Being financially literate allows you to have a better, more...

As investors navigate the dynamic landscape of the financial markets, they find themselves at the intersection of cutting-edge technology and traditional expertise. The advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data-driven solutions...

The first quarter is in the books, and it was an excellent one for stocks. The S&P 500 index rode a resilient U.S. economy, easing inflation, rising corporate profits, and anticipation of summertime rate cuts from the Federal Reserve...

April is National Financial Literacy Month – an entire month dedicated to underscoring the importance of learning, establishing and maintaining healthy financial habits. But ask yourself this: what have you learned about anything...

The landscape of retirement savings options is broad, offering various strategies for future financial independence in retirement. Many people are familiar with 401(k)s, 457(b) plans, SIMPLE IRAs, Simplified Employee Pension Plans...

As the cost-of-living crisis looms large, particularly for the younger generation, Gen Z is pioneering a new approach to personal finance: 'loud budgeting.' In a world where the pressure to spend money can feel overwhelming, especially...

In an unexpected turn of events, the IRS announced another delay in the implementation of the new reporting rule that would require third-party payment apps, for example, Zelle, PayPal, Cash App, or Venmo, to report earned income over...

As spring approaches, the weather is starting to warm up. For the stock market, the temperature has been rising for a while now. In fact, since December 2023, the S&P 500 has not experienced a pullback of even 2%. Strong starts to years ten

Today, there are an estimated 12.3 million women-owned businesses. To give that some context, approximately 43% of entrepreneurs worldwide are women. A study conducted by Fidelity Investments showed that women are often less prepared...

As the ominous cloud of rising healthcare costs continues to cast a shadow over small businesses, savvy entrepreneurs are exploring innovative solutions to navigate this financial storm. One such solution gaining traction is the...

An increasing number of full-time workers seek to increase their income through working a side hustle, which is employment in addition to a full-time job. In this article, we'll delve into the benefits of this trend, essential tips for...

Did you know about 50 percent of Americans do not have life insurance? Part of the problem is a lack of clarity: 31 percent of people who need it but aren’t covered say it’s because they don’t know what to get. But it...

Stocks are off to a solid start in 2024. January gains are particularly enjoyable because of the old adage from the Stock Trader’s Almanac, “As goes January, so goes the year.” Nearly 75 years of historical data shows...

Retirement planning may not be your idea of an exciting date night. However, retirement strategies and goals are so varied that couples in committed relationships need to set aside time to discuss plans for when they leave the...

Although Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is known for his role in the American Civil Rights Movement and advocacy for nonviolent protests, a deeper examination of his life offers several valuable financial lessons. From fiscal...

Whether you want to save money, pay off debt, or simply gain a better understanding of your financial habits, it’s essential to keep a close eye on your spending. This article explores five essential strategies to help you track...

Life today is expensive, and contributing to a retirement plan is more beneficial than ever. Recently, the IRS announced it was raising the contribution limit for 401(k)s to $23,000 for 2024, up from $22,500. In a world where pensions...

For profitable small businesses, paying quarterly estimated taxes is part of the tax process to potentially avoid penalties at the end of your fiscal year. The quarterly taxes for a business are the estimated taxes that will be owed...

It's a new year and the time of year when you want to make resolutions about your personal life, business life, and finances. It is the perfect time for couples to get together and set their own financial goals for the upcoming year...

Stocks defied the skeptics in a very unpredictable 2023. The Dow Jones finished at an all-time record high on December 28, and the S&P 500 came within a whisker of a fresh all-time high after the index rallied more than 20% for the...

A relatively small number of employers offer generous matching contributions, exceeding the standard dollar-for-dollar match, to enhance their recruitment efforts and compensate for discontinuing defined benefit pension plans.

The winter months bring the possibility of freezing rain, strong wind, ice, and blizzard conditions, and alerts from the National Weather Service. For your safety, it is important to recognize these alerts and know how to respond to them.

From the outside looking in, the Grinch was a taker, while Santa has always been in the habit of giving. Analyzing their unique characteristics, which of the two would be the better investor...

Here are some things to consider as you weigh potential tax moves between now and the end of the year. 1. Defer income to next year Consider opportunities to defer income to 2024, particularly if you think you may be in a lower tax...

The end of the year serves as a natural checkpoint for many financial and personal processes, and with the arrival of the final months of the year, proactive preparation becomes essential. Whether you're an individual looking to optimize...

Just as we learn to cook Thanksgiving dishes by watching our parents and grandparents, the same can be true with finances. So, while you plan on making this the most memorable Thanksgiving ever, get the conversation flowing in a financia...

Cyber Monday is one of the most popular shopping days, competing each year with Black Friday when it comes to scoring holiday deals. While online shopping continues to grow in popularity, it also opens the door even wider for those...

Retirement seems like a long way off, but it arrives faster than you think. The big question is, are you ready? What exactly does retirement entail? Analysts suggest there are four designated phases of retirement that a person often ...