Celebrating 529 Day – Boost Your College Savings
As higher education costs continue to rise, finding effective ways to save for college becomes increasingly important. May 29 (5/29) is a national day of awareness for 529 college savings plans. It’s a day to reflect and a reminder for families to evaluate their education...
Financial Wellness for Older Americans: A Guide to Avoiding Scams and Fraud
As you enter retirement, financial security becomes a top priority. Unfortunately, older Americans are often targeted by scams and financial fraud, with scammers seeking to exploit their savings and investments. “Financial fraud among older adults is on the rise, with billions of dollars lost annually to...
Borrowers in Default on Federal Student Loans Face Imminent Collection Efforts
On April 21, 2025, the U.S. Department of Education announced that it will resume collections on defaulted federal student loans starting May 5, 2025. The federal government hasn't collected on defaulted loans since March 2020. Here is some background followed by answers to questions about...
National Small Business Week – Supporting Local Enterprises
National Small Business Week, celebrated annually during the first week of May, acknowledges small businesses' critical role in building strong communities and driving economic growth. This dedicated week provides an opportunity to recognize the resilience and innovation of local entrepreneurs who form the backbone of...
Housing Market Legacy: The Property Boom and Its Generational Impact
The post-war property boom created a seismic shift in wealth accumulation, profoundly benefiting the Baby Boomer generation and reshaping the modern real estate landscape. Decades of sustained property appreciation allowed Boomers to amass substantial equity, fueling economic advantages that have widened the generational wealth gap. Since...
REAL ID Deadline Fast Approaching
After years of numerous delays, the REAL ID enforcement deadline is scheduled for May 7, 2025. 1 What is a REAL ID? A REAL ID is a type of enhanced identification card that is signified by a star marking in the upper top portion of the card....
The Emotional & Financial Toll of Being in the Sandwich Generation
Balancing the responsibilities of caring for aging parents while supporting children can be both emotionally and financially overwhelming. Middle-aged adults caught in this position, often called the "Sandwich Generation," face unique challenges that can impact their long-term financial security. The rising healthcare, education, and daily living...
Creating a Sustainable Budget
Creating a sustainable budget goes beyond simple expense tracking—it's about building a financial framework that supports both current needs and future goals. [1]The key lies in developing realistic, flexible plans that can adapt to life's changes while consistently moving you toward financial security. "The most successful...
Late-Stage Retirement Planning for Gen X
For Generation X members, who are now entering their 50s, retirement planning takes on a new level of urgency. Fortunately, catch-up contribution provisions and other strategies can help accelerate savings during these pivotal years. "Generation X faces unique retirement planning challenges, but they also have powerful...
The Financial Literacy Gap: How Gen Z Women Can Take Control of Their Financial Future
In an era of unprecedented economic challenges, Generation Z women find themselves at a critical crossroads. Despite being the most educated generation in history, they face the lowest financial literacy rates among all demographic groups, creating a paradoxical situation that threatens their long-term financial well-being. The...