JANAURY 2025
Americans feel optimistic about their 2025 financesVIA Bankrate
More Americans are feeling optimistic about their finances in 2025 as inflation fears subside and the economy shows signs of stability. But could this newfound optimism be misplaced, or are we truly turning a corner?
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Five key changes to 401(k)s in 2025VIA Investopedia
From higher contribution limits to quicker eligibility for part-time workers, 401(k) plans are going to be seeing significant changes in 2025. Here's how you can make the most of these updates.
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Six ways Federal Reserve impacts on your financesVIA Bankrate
Understanding how the Fed's actions affect borrowing costs, savings rates, your job security can empower you to make informed financial choices. Here are six key ways the Fed impacts your money and how to navigate.
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Five reasons entrepreneurs will thrive in 2025VIA Entrepreneur
From a business-friendly political environment to rising consumer confidence, the landscape for entrepreneurs has never looked better. What opportunities could these changes unlock for you?
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MAY 2024
Understanding revocable trusts in estate planningVIA Kiplinger
Thinking about estate planning? Here’s why revocable trusts are favored for their flexibility and tax benefits and how they compare to irrevocable trusts.
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How much Americans spend daily in retirementVIA Entrepreneur
The average retiree spends over $52,000 per year, but the median income is only $47,620! What does this mean for how comfortable you’ll be in retirement?
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The pros and cons of 401(k) loansVIA Bankrate
A 401(k) loan might feel like “free money,” but it could cost you big in the long run. Discover the hidden drawbacks and why exhausting other options first is crucial.
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Three must-know rules for Roth IRA ownersVIA Motley Fool
Navigating the complexities of Roth IRAs can be crucial for your financial future. Here are some income restrictions, the five-year rule, and tax-free withdrawal conditions.
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Should you worry about Social Security?VIA Kiplinger
Decades of economic shifts have quietly eroded the foundation of Social Security. Will future retirees have to rely more on savings, work longer, or accept drastically reduced benefits?
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JUNE 2024 |
Key signs you’re financially healthier than you thinkVIA Yahoo! Finance
Financial stability may be closer than it appears, especially if you’re not living paycheck to paycheck or carrying credit card debt. Here are signs that you’re financially healthier than you might think.
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Americans worry about the economy and inflationVIA Yahoo! Finance
As inflation concerns persist, US consumers’ confidence in the economy continues to wane, says a consumer sentiment survey. Here’s how rising inflation expectations are shaping perceptions.
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Seven key IRA withdrawal dates for taxpayersVIA Bankrate
IRA rules can be complex, but knowing the right withdrawal times can save you from costly penalties.
Here are the critical dates and strategies. |
Working past retirement age on the riseVIA CNN
Rising costs and insufficient retirement savings are pushing more Americans to extend their working years beyond the traditional retirement age. Here’s how economic pressures and evolving job markets affect older workers.
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JULY 2025
Harvard professor identifies a hidden retirement planning gapVIA CNBC
While finances dominate retirement planning discussions, a Harvard clinical professor highlights a critical but often overlooked element: social relationships. Forging strong connections could be the key to a happier, longer life.
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Roth 401(k) Changes: What You Should Know For 2024VIA Kiplinger
Significant changes to Roth 401(k) rules from the SECURE 2.0 Act include eliminating required minimum distributions, which allows your retirement funds to grow tax-free for longer. Will this change how you plan for retirement?
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Six Custom Tax Planning Tips For High-Income Individuals And FamiliesVIA Kiplinger
Effective tax planning requires more than just knowledge of current laws.
Explore how tailored strategies and early planning can lead to significant tax savings for high-income earners and their families. |
Expectations for 2024’s second-half housing marketVIA CNBC
Despite a slight softening in some metropolitan areas, overall U.S. home prices are expected to hit new highs this summer.
What does this mean for buyers hoping for a cooldown? |
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Does An Assumable Mortgage Make Sense In Today's Rate Environment?VIA CBS News
Assumable mortgages offer a unique advantage by potentially allowing homebuyers to inherit a seller's lower interest Rate. This option could significantly reduce one's financial burden in a high-rate environment
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AUGUST 2024
A new threat to the US economyVIA CNN
As inflation eases, a new concern is rising—unemployment, signaling potential economic shifts. What could this mean for the Federal Reserve’s next moves?
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How to estimate your lifespan for retirementVIA CNBC
Retirement planning isn't just about how much you save. It's also about how long you'll need those savings to last. Here’s why experts say understanding your life expectancy.
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Why it's time to invest in Roth accountsVIA CNBC
Are you still clinging to the traditional "defer, defer, defer" tax strategy? Here’s why a certified public accountant is now advocating for paying taxes at today's historically low rates.
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Smart tax planning tips for entrepreneursVIA Entrepreneur
Entrepreneurs often overlook estate planning, risking significant hidden costs and liabilities. How can smart planning today protect your legacy and reduce estate taxes tomorrow?
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The inflation upside that Americans are ignoringVIA Yahoo! Finance
While Americans lament the rising costs of everyday goods, they may be overlooking a crucial factor: their own increasing wages. (They tend to attribute raises strictly to on-the-job performance or career progression.
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2025 Medicare Parts B and D premium costsVIA Kiplinger
Will your monthly Medicare premiums increase next year? It depends. You’ll want to check if your past income might subject you to IRMAA.
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SEPTEMBER 2024
Four financial tasks to finish 2024 strongVIA Kiplinger
Reassessing your finances throughout the year is crucial for optimizing outcomes, but making tweaks in the second half of 2024 is particularly vital.
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Four strategies for financial stability when life changesVIA Kiplinger
Transitions can be hard, stressful and costly. With a little preparation and the right team on your side, you can handle all the curve balls life throws.
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Mortgage rates plunge to lowest in more than a yearVIA CNN
U.S. mortgage rates plummeted after weaker-than-expected employment data raised odds of the Federal Reserve cutting interest rates next month.
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IRS sets final rules for inherited IRAsVIA CNBC
As the IRS finalizes rules on inherited IRAs, understanding the implications of your withdrawal strategy is going to be crucial.
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401(k) rollover advice rule is at riskVIA CNBC
A new Labor Department rule aimed at protecting retirement savers faces legal challenges. Could this jeopardize your retirement savings and leave you vulnerable to conflicted advice?
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Avoiding capital gains tax as a homeownerVIA Kiplinger
The capital gains tax could catch many homeowners by surprise as they find their profits upon selling exceeding their $500,000 exemption. Here’s how strategic planning can keep you under the exemption threshold.
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OCTOBER 2024
Key facts about unrealized gains taxVIA Kiplinger
President Biden's FY25 budget proposal includes a significant shift in taxing unrealized gains, focusing on the ultra-wealthy. Here’s what this could mean for the future of wealth.
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Comparing gift, estate, and capital gains taxesVIA Kiplinger
Capital gains tax rates might be lower than the gift and estate tax rates, but how you handle your estate and whether you use a trust can make a big difference in taxes owed.
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Seven ways to scale a billion-dollar startupVIA Entrepreneur
Scaling a startup to a billion-dollar valuation is the dream of many entrepreneurs. Here are seven key insights to guide your journey to becoming the next unicorn.
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How to avoid the inherited IRA tax bombVIA CNBC
Inheriting an IRA can be a financial windfall, but it could also trigger a "tax bomb." Are you aware of the potential tax implications and how to avoid them?
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NOVEMBER 2024
How financial goals impact business and personal successVIA Entrepreneur
Juggling your priorities in business and personal finances can feel like a tightrope walk, but setting clear financial goals can bring much-needed balance.
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Social Security Tax Limit Jumps 4.4% For The Coming 2025 YearVIA Kiplinger
Social Security adjustments for 2025 include a new wage cap and COLA increase. Learn what these updates mean for your taxes and benefits going forward.
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Real Estate Fees Settlement Created A New Competitive BallgameVIA CNBC
The real estate market just got a shake-up! A recent settlement in a class-action lawsuit against the National Association of Realtors has changed the rules on agent commissions.
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The IRS Will Soon Set Its New 2025 Tax Brackets. Here's What To Expect.VIA CBS News
Planning ahead for your taxes can save you money down the road. But are you aware of the projected changes to tax brackets and standard deductions for 2025?
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APRIL 2024
Use trusts for estate planning to avoid probateVIA Kiplinger
Want to avoid frustrating beneficiaries with lengthy probate delays? Learn how trusts can streamline the inheritance process.
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The types of income the IRS doesn’t taxVIA Kiplinger
It may feel like the IRS taxes most of your hard-earned money, but some types of income are nontaxable. What are they?
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Differences between 403(b) and 401(k) accountsVIA Bankrate
If you’re looking at retirement accounts, you may come across the 403(b) and the 401(k) plans. Here’s how both plans work.
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Tax implications when splitting assets in divorceVIA Kiplinger
Splitting 401(k) assets in a divorce can lead to unintended tax consequences. However, there are ways to avoid financial penalties.
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Home prices outpace income growth after fourteen monthsVIA Yahoo! Finance
Home prices are rising faster than incomes, and inventory is tight. It’s a good time to be a seller, but there are challenges for first-time buyers.
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Choosing between Medigap and Medicare AdvantageVIA US News
Discover the critical differences between Medigap (Medicare Supplement) and Medicare Advantage to determine which plan is right for you.
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MARCH 2024
Required retirement savings to live in US statesVIA CNBC
Retiring comfortably in the U.S. requires a hefty savings account, with the cost fluctuating vastly across states.
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Key IRS tax changes for this tax seasonVIA Kiplinger
Tax deductions, tax credit amounts, and some tax laws have changed since you filed your last federal income tax return. They may affect your tax bill.
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Housing market predictions for 2024 - 2028VIA US News
As mortgage rates slowly fall, more buyers and sellers will enter the market, but housing prices should stabilize.
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Why estate planning is essential for everyoneVIA CNBC
Advanced planning can protect your legacy and make an emotional time significantly easier for some of your loved ones.
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Is supplemental insurance necessary with Medicare?VIA NerdWaller
Medicare Supplement Insurance, or Medigap, is an optional add-on that can fill “gaps” in Medicare Part A and Part B. Do you need it?
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Mastering money for personal wealth in five stepsVIA Entrepreneur
Embarking on the journey to personal wealth involves distinct phases, each with its unique goals. From covering basic expenses to securing one’s future, giving back, and planning for heirs, these are the five stages of personal wealth.
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FEBRUARY 2024
Five 2024 policy shifts that can affect retirement savingsVIA CNBC
A piece of legislation known as Secure 2.0 passed Congress in 2022 and brought with it a raft of changes to the rules surrounding Americans’ retirement savings.
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Five best financial moves to make in 2024VIA Kiplinger
Unlike many resolutions that require constant vigilance, such as dieting or exercising, you only have to take a few steps to improve your financial health and security in 2024 and the future.
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Expectations for buying a house in 2024VIA NerdWallet
The market remains tough for buyers, but there’s still no time like the present to start shopping. The long-term benefit of buying often outweighs the pain of toughing out the search.
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Your number-one financial resolution for 2024VIA CNN
From reevaluating your spending habits to understanding the true value of money in your life, learn how to make your finances work towards your personal happiness and security.
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What to know about 2024 tax filing seasonVIA CNBC
The IRS will start accepting and processing 2023 tax returns for individual filers on January 29. Most taxpayers must file federal returns and pay balances by April 15 to avoid penalties and interest.
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What do lower interest rates mean for retirees?VIA US News
Lower interest rates pose a dual-edged sword for fixed-income investors, experts say. With the Federal Reserve likely to cut interest rates, here’s how retirees may approach their investment portfolios.
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JANUARY 2024
Opinion: The Moment I Realized We’re Saving Too Much For RetirementVIA CNN
Bill Perkins shares how rethinking your retirement strategy can lead to a richer, more experience-filled life guided by real-life examples and poignant reflections.
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Retirees Face Significantly Higher Medicare Part D Prescription Drug PremiumsVIA CBNC
The 2025 implementation of a law limiting how much Medicare enrollees pay for prescription drugs is leading to some substantially higher Medicare Part D premiums in 2024.
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Mortgage Rates Have Dropped To Their Lowest Levels Since AugustVIA CNN
The trend toward lower mortgage rates is influenced by Federal Reserve policies and their impact on home affordability. This can provide key insights for potential homebuyers.
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The Little-Known Retirement Savings Hack High Earners Must Know AboutVIA The Motley Fool
High earners take note: the mega backdoor Roth offers a unique opportunity to enhance your tax-advantaged savings, blending smart financial strategy w/ practical insights.
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DECEMBER 2023
SECURE 2.0 changes in retirement savings for 2024VIA Kiplinger
Some of the SECURE 2.0 retirement savings provisions kicked in this year. Others come in subsequent years. Here's what you should know.
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Investment advice might shift in 401(k)-to-IRA rolloversVIA CBNC
A new U.S. Department of Labor proposal set to impact 2024 potentially could revolutionize how financial advice is given for 401(k)-to-IRA rollovers.
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Income requirements to afford homes in 97 citiesVIA CBS News
Navigating the current real estate market requires more than just a dream, as data reveals the need for six-figure incomes to afford a median-priced home in these 97 cities.
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IRS announces 2024 retirement account contribution limitsVIA CBNC
In 2024, retirement savings will be geting a boost as the IRS raises contribution limits for 401(k) plans to $23,000 and is raising contribution limits for IRAs to $7,000.
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NOVEMBER 2023
Prepping financial affairs before death or disabilityVIA Clark.com
Preparing for unforeseen life events is crucial. Here are the essential legal and financial documents you should consider.
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Five economy-proof strategies to save moneyVIA Business Insider
Amidst rising concerns about inflation, 82% of Americans are seeking ways to solidify their finances. Here are five practical methods to enhance savings
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Four things every inherited IRA beneficiary should knowVIA Kiplinger
Amidst rising concerns about inflation, 82% of Americans are seeking ways to solidify their finances. Here are five practical methods to enhance savings
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Pitfalls to avoid when shopping for Medicare AdvantageVIA NerdWallet
From picking a plan for the perks to not checking next year’s network, here are some traps it’s easy to fall into while shopping for Medicare Advantage
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How the housing crisis impacts your retirement savingsVIA US News
Rising interest rates and a housing supply crunch have led to a housing affordability crisis in many areas of the country. Learn how your long-term savings could be affected by the shortage of homes
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Three biggest retirement plan rollover mistakes to avoidVIA CNBC
If you’re saving for retirement with a 401(k) or individual retirement account, it’s easy to lose money to taxes and penalties when moving money between accounts.
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OCTOBER 2023
I'm 'Laddering' My CDs To Earn The Most On My SavingsVIA Insider
Learn how Jackie Lam strategically laddered CDs in 3-month increments, benefiting from higher interest rates without locking away funds indefinitely.
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Charitable Gift Annuities: Benefit Yourself And Your Favorite CharityVIA Kiplinger
Donating to charitable gift annuities can provide you with tax breaks now and income later.
Here’s what you need to know. |
Here Are 3 Things To Know About Your Retirement BenefitsVIA CNBC
President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Social Security Act into law in 1935. Eighty-eight years later, the program has never missed a payment.
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Estate Planning Amid Family Estrangement: Limiting The FalloutVIA Kiplinger
Learn why open conversations about inheritance intentions might be the key to avoiding misunderstandings and promoting family harmony.
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SEPTEMBER 2023
Retirement’s longer lifespans and changing needsVIA Kiplinger
Many disruptive factors will impact retirement in the future. Thus, the time for workers to start preparing to deal with these disruptive factors is now. Here are some potential solutions.
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Big retirement account changes you haven’t heard aboutVIA Clark.com
Congress passed a slew of new retirement account changes recently. And three of them are worth singling out for how they may be able to help your wallet.
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The ten-year rule for inherited IRAsVIA Kiplinger
The SECURE Act, which was passed in 2019, made some significant changes to the rules for inherited IRAs, including the 10-year rule. What is it, and what are the exceptions to it?
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Keep low-interest rates with mortgage 'porting'VIA Realtor.com
“Mortgage porting” is the practice of transferring the terms of your existing mortgage over to a new property. But how exactly does it work, and what will you need to qualify?
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Four housing market myths hurting buyers and sellersVIA Realtor.com
Some of the supposed housing issues that are coming up time and again aren’t true. Here are the four biggest myths about the current housing market and why experts say they’re wrong.
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Avoid last-minute stress on tax preparationVIA Entepreneur.com
The way to make your annual taxes a good experience is to do your work now instead of waiting until right before they’re due. Here’s why.
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AUGUST 2023
5 Signs You Might Be Better Prepared For Retirement Than You ThinkVIA Yahoo! Finance
You don’t necessarily have to be alarmed if you aren’t sporting a seven-figure balance in your retirement nest egg.
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Living Trust Vs. Will: Which Is The Best Way To Pass Inheritance To Your Family?VIA Motley Fool
No matter how well a family gets along, the process of settling an estate can be tricky or messy — especially if there are large sums at stake.
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Can A Divorced Person Collect Social Security Using Their Ex's Salary History?VIA Motley Fool
If you think you might qualify for Social Security benefits based on an ex-spouse’s work history, you might find this information quite beneficial.
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IRS Delays IRA RMD Rules AgainVIA Kiplinger
The IRS is again delaying certain required minimum distribution (RMD) rules. Here’s what the latest change means for some inherited IRA beneficiaries.
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Capital Gains Vs. Investment Income: How They DifferVIA Bankrate
When it comes to making money in the markets, investors have two main ways: capital gains and investment income. Here are key similarities and differences between the two.
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Millions Of High Earners Pay This Investment Income Tax Every Year. Here’s How To Avoid ItVIA CBNC
Higher earners are more likely to owe an extra levy on investment earnings than a decade ago. But there are ways to reduce your tax bill, experts say.
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JULY 2023
How to avoid paying 401(k) withdrawal taxesYahoo! Finance
401(k)s and other workplace retirement plans are an excellent way to save for retirement while also saving money on taxes. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t any taxes associated with these accounts.
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Mortgage rates are poised to fallRealtor.com
Mortgage rates will stabilize over the short term and could begin to fall in the late summer and early fall. This could make it a more affordable time to buy a home, especially for those who have been waiting on the sidelines.
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The most important retirement table you’ll seeThe Motley Fool
Motley Fool presents a table that shows the power of compound interest over time. The table shows how much money you could have saved for retirement if you started saving at a young age and invested regularly.
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Should you keep accounts open at multiple banks?NerdWallet
Having multiple bank accounts can be a smart way to organize your finances and earn higher interest rates. However, it’s important to choose the right banks and accounts for your needs.
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JUNE 2023
3 Ways To Rethink Old Age And Retirement, MIT Expert SaysVIA CNBC
The classic retirement framework aims for seniors to have enough money to fund their lifestyle in old age. There are some big questions people planning for their retirement years should be asking.
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4 Things To Know About Today’s Inflation ReportVIA NerdWallet
Inflation reported for April continued its steady cooldown, but its slow pace shows it’s still resilient, too, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ consumer price index report. Here’s how that information is valuable looking forward.
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What Happens To Your Mortgage When You Die?VIA Yahoo! Finance
If you have a mortgage, you might worry about what that means for your heirs and all of your loved ones. Who will be responsible for making payments? Let’s take a look at what happens to a mortgage when someone passes away.
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Regional Banks Have Been Failing — Here Are 3 National Banks Where Your Savings Are Secure And You’ll Earn High RatesVIA Business Insider
Regional banks are in turmoil as depositors withdraw their money from their bank accounts. Remember that up to $250,000 per depositor is safe at financial institutions that are FDIC- or NCUA-insured.
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MAY 2023
Solo 401(k) Vs. SEP IRAVIA businessinsider.com
Solo 401(k)s and SEP IRAs are options for the self-employed and small-business owners to save for retirement. These plans are designed for individuals or those with a small number of employees to benefit from tax-advantaged retirement savings. Here is a deeper look at each that can help you decide which is right for you.
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What The Banking Crisis Means For Mortgage RatesVIA cnn.com
Home buyers can anticipate mortgage rates to move down through the rest of this year as the banking crisis drags on, which could cool down inflation. But there are bound to be some bumps along the way. Here’s why rates have been bouncing around and where they could end up.
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How To Use Your HSA As A Retirement PlanVIA bankrate.com
If you’re looking to maximize your retirement savings, using your Health Savings Account (HSA) could be a wise choice.
Here’s what you should know about HSAs and how they can be used to boost your retirement savings. |
Should I Sell My House Now? 7 Great Reasons To List This Spring—And 3 Times You Might Want To WaitVIA realtor.com
With spring upon us, many home sellers could be wondering: Should I sell my home now? While this season tends to bring out both home sellers and buyers en masse, this particular spring is prompting many to pause.
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How To Factor Your Health Into Your Financial Planning, According To A Doctor-Turned-AdvisorVIA cnbc.com
When you consider health as part of a financial plan, you may think in terms of insurance premiums and related out-of-pocket costs like copays. While those expenses matter, your health should influence far more than a single line item in a budget. Here’s what else you might consider.
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Barbara Corcoran Says Young People Should ‘Get In The Game Of Real Estate’ As Fast As They Can—Here’s WhyVIA cnbc.com
Barbara Corcoran has made quite a name for herself in her more than 50 years in the real estate business. When asked about the time to buy, Corcoran always has the same answer. Here’s what it is.
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APRIL 2023
How To Pay 0% Capital Gains Taxes With A Six-Figure Income In 2023VIA cnbc.com
Planning to sell some investments this year? It’s less likely to affect your 2023 tax bill, experts say. Here’s why: The IRS made dozens of inflation adjustments for 2023, including the long-term capital gains brackets, applying to investments held for more than one year.
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What To Know About Bank Deposits And The FDIC Deposit Insurance FundVIA cbsnews.com
Financial institutions pay quarterly into the Deposit Insurance Fund or “DIF,” and the size of their fees is based on an assessment of the institution’s size and risk profile. The account exists to repay insured depositors when a financial institution fails. How will it work this time?
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529 Plans Get a Boost With Tax-Free Rollovers to Roth IRAsVIA kiplinger.com
Thanks to the SECURE 2.0 Act, you’ll soon be able to roll over funds from your 529 plan into a Roth IRA, as long as certain conditions are met. Here’s what you need to know about the new changes set to go into effect next year.
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Here Are The New 2023 Tax Brackets — And How To Determine YoursVIA Yahoo! Finance
Americans could save on taxes this year because of historically large inflation adjustments set by the IRS. Tax bracket changes could result in a slight decrease in the tax rates for some individuals, but not for others.
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Jason A. Frederico
CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®, RICP®, CLTC® |
Park Avenue Securities Form CRS
Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). OSJ: 5280 CARROLL CANYON ROAD, SUITE 300, SAN DIEGO CA, 92121, 619-684-6400 . Securities products and advisory services offered through PAS, member FINRA, SIPC. By providing this content Park Avenue Securities LLC and your financial representative are not undertaking to provide investment advice or make a recommendation for a specific individual or situation, or to otherwise act in a fiduciary capacity. Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. WestPac Wealth Partners, LLC is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. Insurance products offered through WestPac Wealth Partners and Insurance Services, LLC, a DBA of WestPac Wealth Partners, LLC. CA Insurance License #0G14394. 7031678.1 Exp 09/26
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