Key takeaways Figuring your AGI is a crucial step on the path to calculating your taxable income and, in turn, your tax bill. Your AGI determines your eligibility for a variety of tax deductions and tax credits. (Sometimes, your modified adjusted gross income comes into play — more on that…
Key takeaways The standard deduction is a specific dollar amount that you can use to reduce your taxable income. You have to choose between claiming the standard deduction and itemizing (that is, claiming expenses that you paid). The standard deduction amount usually increases each year for inflation. Also, the standard…
Key takeaways The deadline to file federal income tax returns this year — to report income earned in 2025 — is April 15, 2026. If you file an extension, you have until Oct. 15 to file your federal tax return. If you file an extension you have until Oct. 15…
If financial stress has been weighing you down, you aren’t alone. Around 43% of Americans cite money as a factor negatively impacting their mental health, according to a recent Bankrate survey. January is the perfect time to reset your financial mindset and create routines that bring peace of mind all year long. By building good money…
Personal Finance
The nation’s 75 million Social Security recipients will receive a 2.8% cost of living adjustment (COLA) increase in their benefits…
Historically Black colleges and universities are on the frontlines of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act’s new limits on parent…
The big new fees JPMorgan Chase is planning to charge some financial technology companies may well trickle down to consumers,…
With artificial intelligence beginning to eat away at many white-collar entry-level jobs, and the unemployment rate for recent college graduates…
Featured Articles
Key takeaways Savings accounts are deposit accounts available at banks and credit unions. They allow you to keep your money safe while it earns interest. Online banks tend to offer the highest interest rates for savings accounts. You can withdraw your money from a savings…
Dept Managmnt
Tip 3: Learn How to Create a Better ‘To Do’ List When we make resolutions, we tend to resolve to do certain things.…
Banking
These entrepreneurs, traders and investors are making an outsized impact in fintech, crypto and traditional financial services.By Jeff Kauflin, Hank Tucker and Nina…
Credit Cards
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Because annuities are designed to provide long-term income, accessing funds too early can trigger an annuity early withdrawal penalty. Insurance companies typically impose surrender charges if you withdraw money within the first several years, and the IRS may add a 10% penalty on withdrawals before age 59 ½. These costs…
A solid investment strategy gives you focus, clarity and direction—and you need all three to become a successful investor. You need to have an investment strategy that’s going to help turn your retirement dreams into a reality. Get expert money advice to reach your money goals faster! Your investment strategy…
When you think about estate planning, wills, trusts and life insurance usually top the list. But annuities deserve a spot in the conversation, too. Beyond providing reliable income in retirement, annuities can ensure your spouse keeps receiving steady checks, transfer wealth to heirs and help sidestep probate. Still, annuities come…
So you’re thinking about buying a timeshare. Hey, we get it! It’s your dream vacation spot, and you can enjoy all the benefits of a vacation home, without the hassle of owning one. It’ll be great! Yeah, right. That’s what timeshare companies want you to believe, but it’s a far…
I’m 63 With $1.35 Million in My IRA and a $2,200 Social Security Check. What’s My Retirement Budget?
By your 60s, most of your retirement foundation is already in place. While you may still have a few years to save, building significant new wealth is less likely unless you continue working during retirement. This stage typically shifts focus to taxes, withdrawals, Social Security and budgeting. To help you…
If you already have a will, that’s great! Every adult needs a will. (And that includes you—so be sure you get that done right away if you haven’t already.) But did you know that if you’re married, your spouse needs a will too? That’s right. This is a case where…
Financial consultants. You’ve heard of them—whether it’s from a Facebook ad, a tv commercial, or the Charles Schwab magnet on your aunt’s fridge. But do you even know what a financial consultant is or what they do? Simply put, financial consultants help people figure out the best strategy for their…
When it comes to where you put your money, you probably have a checking account. But what about a savings account? Maybe you’re thinking: What savings . . . my money disappears as fast as it comes in! But a savings account isn’t a bad thing to have—in fact, it…
A lot of people get into stock trading with these grand visions of finding the next Apple or Facebook to invest in and making a huge fortune. But stock trading is a lot like fishing. Your buddy will gladly tell you all about “the big one” he caught on his…
No one becomes great on their own. Each one of us needs someone we can look up to and lean on for support. Luke Skywalker had Obi-Wan Kenobi. Harry Potter had Dumbledore. Katniss Everdeen had Haymitch. And these mentors aren’t confined to the world of fiction! The greatest leaders—from business…
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