Financial Planning for Newlyweds (or Nearly-Weds)
Entering into a marriage is not just a romantic commitment but also a financial partnership. For newlyweds or nearly-weds, planning future finances together can help strengthen the relationship and work toward financial independence. Here’s a guide to tackling this often-sensitive subject.
Income Tax vs. Capital Gains Tax: What’s the Difference?
Understanding the difference between income tax and capital gains tax is a key part of smart financial planning. While both are ways the government collects revenue, they apply to very different types of money you receive. Here are the questions you most likely have, and the answers that can help you understand the basics of […]
Tax Updates for 2026: Key Things to Know This Year
Thanks to the permanent changes made by the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (OBBBA) and the annual inflation adjustments from the IRS, the 2026 tax year brings some changes you might want to make note of. Getting a handle on these updates can help you plan out your financial moves throughout this year, so let’s […]
Financial Aid Awareness Month – How to Make the Most of Financial Aid
February is recognized as Financial Aid Awareness Month, an excellent opportunity for students and families to learn more about the various types of aid available and how to maximize their benefits. Financial aid, whether in the form of grants, scholarships, or loans, is vital in helping many students afford the rising costs of education.
Demystifying the Life Insurance Medical Exam: What to Expect During the Underwriting Appointment
Applying for life insurance often includes a step that may be unfamiliar to many: the life insurance medical exam. This examination is a fundamental part of the underwriting process. One’s health status is crucial to insurers, as it helps them assess the risk of insuring one’s life. Here is what to expect during the underwriting […]
A Brief History of the Social Security COLA
Although to some of us it may seem as if Social Security has always been around, that isn’t the case. The Social Security Act was signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt on August 14, 1935. Its aim was to address the economic hardships of the Great Depression and provide an income source, specifically […]
How to Build a Meaningful Retirement Life Without a Work Schedule
One of the most underestimated challenges of retirement is not financial but personal. After decades of structured workdays, many retirees find themselves asking, “What now?” While the initial freedom can feel liberating, the absence of a daily routine can quickly lead to boredom, lack of purpose, or even depression and heart disease![1] Creating a meaningful […]
A History of the Sales Tax
Before we take a peek into the past to see how sales tax became a part of our lives, let’s define our terms. Sales tax is a tax on the sale or exchange of an item or service and is usually paid by the consumer or purchaser. It is a source of revenue for state […]
5 Pillars of a Well-Constructed Retirement Plan
A well-planned retirement is not a single event, but a comprehensive strategy built on several interconnected pillars. As we look ahead for 2026 and the years to follow, it’s more important than ever to ensure your plan is built for stability and flexibility. Beyond simply saving money, a truly successful retirement blueprint addresses five critical […]
Social Security Myths to Watch Out For
If you’ve come across advice like “Social Security is going broke” or “you’re better off just waiting until 70 to claim,” you’re far from alone. These and other commonly repeated notions are persistent myths that can steer well-meaning savers off course. If you’ve believed any of these ideas, it may be time to bring in […]