The New 401(k) Contribution Limits: How to Maximize Your 401(k) in 2024
The employer-sponsored 401(k) plan is a fantastic avenue for saving towards retirement. It comes with both short- and long-term tax advantages, the potential perk of an employer match, and generous 401(k) contribution limits. “The IRS does put a cap on how much you can contribute...
Preparing for Retirement in the New Year: Steps to Take Now
What does a happy and fulfilling retirement mean to you? To some people, preparing for retirement means transitioning from a full-time job to spending more time with their loved ones. To others, it means pursuing passions or traveling the world. Attaining retirement is a significant...
Financial Wellness Month: January 2024
Welcome to a month dedicated to transforming aspirations into financial well-being — Financial Wellness Month. According to findings of a recent survey conducted by Lending Club, as of October 2022, a significant 59 percent of U.S. consumers were navigating their financial lives on a paycheck-to-paycheck...
New Year’s Resolutions Week: January 1-7, 2024
Welcome to a week of fresh starts—New Year's Resolutions Week! While many recognize January 1st as New Year's Day, not everyone realizes the significance of the entire first week of January. This week marks New Year's Resolutions Week, symbolizing a time when individuals actively implement their resolutions for the New Year.
College Cost Data Released for 2023-2024
Every year, the College Board releases new college cost data and trends in its annual report. The figures published are average cost figures based on a survey of approximately 4,000 colleges across the country. Over the past 20 years, the average price for tuition, fees, and room and board has increased 38% at public colleges and 29% at private colleges over and above increases in the Consumer Price Index, straining the budgets of many families and leading to widespread student debt.
Claiming the Home Energy Audit Tax Credit
When considering making energy-saving home improvements, it may be helpful to have a home energy audit done. Fortunately, there is a federal income tax credit available equal to 30% of the amount paid for home energy audits, up to $150 per tax year. (There are also credits available for many other energy-saving expenditures.) The IRS has now provided some guidance on what is required to claim the credit for a home energy audit.
Redefining Retirement: Income Strategies for Today’s Savers
People are looking for new ways to ensure financial security in retirement beyond pensions and Social Security. In today's rapidly evolving financial landscape, there is a need to explore alternative retirement income strategies that go beyond traditional sources.
Gen Z, Women: Most Financially Stressed
Money may not buy happiness, but financial stress can take a significant toll on anyone’s mental well-being. From lingering debt to the effects of inflation on basic commodities, financial stress touches every generation — some more than others.
Do You Have a Forgotten 401(k)?
As of earlier this year, job switchers had left their money in some 29 million 401(k) accounts with former employers. That’s about 25% of the money in all 401(k) plans! This staggering number suggests that many individuals may have forgotten about their retirement savings tucked away in these accounts.
Why Financial Independence Is Delayed for Millennials and Gen Z
Achieving financial independence has always been a significant milestone in life. However, Millennials and Gen Z are taking longer than expected to achieve this goal. Various factors, including the changing dynamics of family support and low financial confidence, influence this delay. This article explores the reasons for the delayed financial independence of these generations and provides tips for navigating this new landscape