If you’ve been getting more spam calls this month, the government shutdown could be to blame. Systems meant to thwart robocalls and other spam phone calls are down due to the government shutdown. This includes the Federal Trade Commission’s “do not call” registry and the online complaint system run by the Federal Communications Commission. The […]
Tax season is here once again, and while it may be tempting to put off dealing with your taxes until we get a little closer to the April 15 deadline, you’re usually better off filing your tax return as soon as possible. Yes, you’ll get it out of the way sooner, but there are a […]
AFTER MANY YEARS OF LOW rates, the U.S. Federal Reserve raised the federal funds rate nine consecutive times in the last three years, including four times in 2018 alone. Furthermore, the Federal Reserve forecasts two more increases for 2019. Short-term interest rates track the current federal funds rate closely, so they go up and down […]
The maximum amount you can contribute to your 401(k) retirement savings plan is climbing by $500 in 2019. If you’re younger than 50, the maximum is now $19,000 rather than last year’s $18,500. If you’re 50 or older, it’s now $25,000 versus last year’s $24,500. What does that mean to you? Frankly, the hike in […]
If you’re a retiree who likes to get important things done on time, you’re in luck! You have the entire year ahead of you to accomplish these five money moves. Here’s a look at a handful of critical tasks that should be on your to-do list. Even though many months lie ahead until 2019 is […]
Having a rewards credit card comes with a lot of benefits. From being able to improve your credit score to being able to access money whenever and wherever you need it, the value of credit cards is huge. But, the most appealing benefit of a rewards credit card is earning rewards every time you shop. […]
As of Jan. 1, the Trump administration is requiring hospitals to publicly list standard charges for various procedures online to increase transparency around pricing, but for most people the listings might as well be written in another language. “As far as the chargemasters being made available online they will be of very little use to […]
Heading into your fall season of life, there are more than 50 shades to consider as you look at the gray matter inside your head to the gray that is on top of it. Inside, the brain’s gray matter contains most of the neuronal cell bodies. These cells oversee and impact our decision making, self-control […]
Will the government shutdown of 2018-19 trigger the massive brain drain some experts have been predicting since the late 1990s? Will government service become less attractive to young people seeking interesting and steady careers? Or has it already happened, thanks to four shutdowns in a 12-month period, including the most recent wall-to-wall 24/7 news coverage […]
Others know that RMD stands for required minimum distribution, but they don’t understand how the calculation and taxation work. Once you turn age 70 ½, the IRS requires you withdraw a percentage of your money in qualified accounts (401(k), IRA, 403(b), etc.) by December 31 each year. Many people don’t realize this money is also […]
Many people made the New Year’s resolution to start investing. Make it happen. Sign up for the 401(k) at work; or if you are already signed up, make sure you are using it to your best advantage. Here’s a cheat sheet of sorts to get you going. Determine how much you can contribute “Your contribution […]
With unemployment near record lows and companies scrambling for talent, people who have never been in high demand in the workplace may find themselves with multiple job offers. Being showered with offer letters has long been par for the course when it comes to top tech execs, sales leaders, and star athletes, but now average […]
