Someday, interest rates will come down again. Here are 10 things Americans should consider when they do.
The Smart Money Guide
Tips, strategies, articles and videos to help you build and keep your wealth
The A, B, C & D of Medicare
Whether your 65th birthday is on the horizon or decades away, you should understand the parts of Medicare – what they cover, and where they come from.
Are You Underprepared for Retirement?
Are You Underprepared for Retirement? Financially speaking, how many Americans are truly on track to retire? A recently published white paper suggests that about half of us are approaching our “third acts” with faulty…
How Long Should I Keep Financial Records?
How long should you keep quarterly and annual statements you get for your investment accounts? How long should you keep bank statements before throwing them away? This article provides some guidance.
The IRS Dirty Dozen List
Each year, the IRS lists the top 12 recurring federal tax offenses – frauds, cheats, feints and schemes that ethically challenged taxpayers, tax preparers and crooks try to perpetrate. Watch for these scams in all seasons, not…
The U.S. Savings Bond Tax Trap
The U.S. Savings Bond Tax Trap Did you buy U.S. Savings Bonds decades ago? Or did your parents or grandparents purchase some for you? If so, take a look at them before April 15 rolls around. Your bonds may have matured. That means they…
Errors to Avoid When Planning for Retirement
Jeff Rose from U.S. News and World Report wrote a great article outlining some mistakes to avoid when planning your retirement. Here are my comments about his article…
Three Social Security Facts Widows Should Know
Three Social Security Facts Widows Should KnowSocial Security is an important financial resource for most Americans. We tend to think of Social Security in terms of income we will receive during retirement, but the system includes…
How to Download Your Social Security Statement
For many, Social Security will represent a significant part of your retirement income. Your Social Security retirement benefits are calculated by averaging your income over the past 35 years in which you earned the most. They receive your earnings information from the...