Retiring Abroad? You May Not Be Able to Get Social Security Checks in These 9 Countries
Key Points The Social Security Administration will send your benefits to most other countries. There are nine exceptions, though this shouldn’t be a problem for most people. Contact the Social Security Administration if you have questions about receiving checks abroad. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › Sometimes, you just want to […]
Looking at RMDs in Retirement? 3 Tips to Manage Them.
Key Points Savings in a traditional retirement account are subject to required minimum distributions (RMDs). Planning ahead could make your RMDs more manageable. There are steps you can take to reduce the tax hit and even make the most of that money. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › There are a […]
3 Little-Known RMD Rules That Could Save You Money
Key Points You don’t have to take an RMD from certain retirement accounts, such as a Roth IRA. You must calculate IRA RMDs individually, but you don’t have to withdraw funds from every traditional IRA. A qualified charitable distribution (QCD) will fulfill your RMD without raising your tax bill. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most […]
Considering a Reverse Mortgage? 4 Things to Consider First.
Key Points Typically, you must be 62 or older and own your home outright or have a low mortgage balance. Because a reverse mortgage must be repaid upon death, it can reduce the amount left to heirs. Keep in mind that closing costs, insurance, and interest rates can affect the overall loan amount. The $23,760 […]
Medicare Launched a New Program Last Month That Could Lead to Big Savings for Seniors
Key Points Medicare launched a GLP-1 Bridge Program last month, which runs through Dec. 31, 2027. Qualifying seniors will be able to get GLP-1s for weight loss for $50 per month. You must meet specific health and insurance criteria to qualify. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › It’s hard to overstate […]
Under 35? Here’s the Average Retirement Savings for People Your Age
Key Points The younger end of the under-35 spectrum has unsurprisingly saved very little. The thirty-somethings, conversely, are off to a better start than you might expect. No matter where you stand compared to your peers, have a specific savings plan. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › It’s no surprise that […]
If You Want the Largest Lifetime Social Security Benefit, Claiming at This Age Is Probably Your Best Bet
Key Points When you apply for Social Security has a significant effect on the size of your checks. Most people would get the largest lifetime benefit by waiting until 70 to apply. The right claiming age for you depends on your finances and life expectancy. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › […]
Medicare Open Enrollment Is 2 Months Away: Do These Things to Prepare Now
Key Points Medicare open enrollment runs Oct. 15 through Dec. 7. During this time, current enrollees can make changes to their coverage. Before that period kicks off, review your prescriptions and provider network, and assess your current plan. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › Around this time of year, the retail […]
President Trump Promised Not to Hurt Social Security, but There’s Only 1 Way to Avoid That
Key Points Social Security faces a potential 22% benefit cut in 2032. Avoiding benefit cuts will likely involve raising taxes. Ordinary Americans will have to foot some of the bill, but we don’t know how much yet. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › Social Security benefits are poised to take a […]
Social Security’s 3.6% COLA Bump Could Push the Program Toward a Funding Crisis
Key Points The cost-of-living adjustment to Social Security payments early next year should still be a healthy one. The program can’t sustain itself for many more years without a significant overhaul of funding and disbursements. Necessary changes to bolster the program can only happen through action by Congress and the White House. The $23,760 Social […]
Social Security Is in Dire Straits, Thanks in Part to President Donald Trump, but Taxing the Rich Won’t Fix the Problem
Key Points Social Security’s Old-Age and Survivors Insurance trust fund (OASI) — the fund that pays retired workers and survivor beneficiaries — is an estimated six years away from exhausting its asset reserves. Although ongoing demographic shifts are primarily responsible for Social Security’s deteriorating financial outlook, President Trump’s policies are also playing a role. While […]
Is $500,000 Enough? What Retirement Really Looks Like on a Half-Million-Dollar Nest Egg.
Key Points If you’re following the 4% rule, retiring on $500,000 alone generally supports a modest lifestyle. Additional income from Social Security, a pension, or part-time work can help your money last. A good budget is essential if you want to make the most of $500,000. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook […]
How to Use Your Home Equity to Live Better in Retirement
Key Points If you determine that selling your home is your best move, it may free up substantial cash for living expenses and investments. While a reverse mortgage is certainly an option, it’s not without risks. Home-equity withdrawals could affect your taxable income and eligibility for financial aid — so make it a point to […]
New Federal Bill Would Protect Against Elder Financial Fraud: Until It Passes, Here’s What States Are Doing to Help
Key Points As federal lawmakers attempt to protect Americans from investment fraud, at least 33 states now have protections in place designed to help shield them from bank-related fraud. States have authorized banks and credit unions to temporarily freeze suspicious transactions when elder exploitation is suspected. Increasingly, laws permit or require reports to law enforcement […]
Social Security’s 2027 COLA Just Got Downgraded: What Retirees Need to Know Now
Key Points Cooling inflation has led experts to lower their Social Security cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) forecasts for the new year, There’s still time for things to change before an official COLA is announced. A smaller 2027 COLA might seem like bad news, but there’s a silver lining. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely […]
Worried About Outliving Your Retirement Savings? 4 Key Moves to Lower the Odds.
Key Points Surging inflation and an underperforming market could put you at risk of depleting your nest egg. Setting yourself up with guaranteed income could help offset that risk. The right asset mix is crucial as well. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › There’s lots to worry about in the context […]
The Latest Inflation Data Means Good and Bad News for Social Security Recipients
Key Points The annual COLA is set based on changes in the CPI-W data from the third quarter of each year. July’s CPI-W rose 3.4% year over year, but inflation cooled from June. Social Security recipients have continued to lose purchasing power in their benefits. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › […]
The $185,500 Expense That Could Upend Your Retirement Budget if You Don’t Prepare
Key Points Healthcare can be a huge expense for older Americans. Saving extra for it ahead of time could help you avoid financial stress. It’s just as important to choose your Medicare coverage carefully and understand your plan’s rules and benefits. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › Many people spend years […]
The First of 3 Critical Economic Data Points That Will Determine the 2027 Social Security COLA Is Out — and It’s Bad News for Retirees
Key Points The annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) is determined by inflation data. Inflation has swung wildly this year, due to the Iran conflict. The most important inflation data for the COLA comes in July, August, and September. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › While investors were eagerly awaiting July inflation data […]
Social Security’s 2027 COLA May Disappoint Retirees No Matter What
Key Points Initial projections are calling for a larger Social Security COLA in 2027 than in 2026. A larger raise will come at the cost of higher prices. It also may not help seniors keep up with inflation as much as expected. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › Social Security’s cost-of-living […]
Planning a Roth Conversion? Here’s the One Thing You Need to Know.
Key Points A Roth conversion allows you to enjoy the benefits of a Roth IRA. While it can give you more flexibility in retirement, it could spur unwanted consequences in the near term. Run the numbers on your conversion to avoid surprises. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › A Roth conversion […]
Time to Retire? Not Till You Do These 3 Things
Key Points Before you retire, make sure you figure out what expenses you’ll be looking at. Also figure out where your income will come from. Have a plan for keeping busy so you don’t end up unhappy. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › If you’re gearing up to retire, you may […]
Fidelity Investments Now Says You Can Expect to Spend Around $185,000 on Healthcare Expenses in Retirement. Here’s How I’m Planning for It.
Key Points Incorporate healthcare costs into your postretirement budget. Regularly review your Medicare plan to ensure you’re receiving the most comprehensive coverage at the lowest cost. Creating a healthcare “bucket” allows you to keep healthcare costs separate from everyday expenses. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › Fidelity Investments routinely crunches the […]
3 Things All Retirees Need to Know About Social Security’s Next Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA)
Key Points Social Security COLAs are meant to help retirees keep up with rising costs. Those raises are based on specific inflation data. An official number should come out in mid-October, but only if all goes smoothly. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › There are many people who end up collecting […]
The Latest Inflation Update Offers Incredible News for Social Security’s 2027 COLA
Key Points The Bureau of Labor Statistics released the July inflation report earlier today, Aug. 12, which showed a slight easing in trailing 12-month price increases. Looking solely at the headline inflation figure can be deceiving, as Social Security’s 2027 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) is on track to make history in a variety of ways. Additionally, […]
7 Overlooked Social Security Benefits Most Retirees Leave on the Table
Key Points Social Security benefits can be difficult to understand. Checking these blind spots can increase your monthly payments. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › Claiming Social Security benefits can be a complex and confusing process for retirees. As a result, many retirees leave money on the table by glossing over […]
3 Costs That Might Stretch Your Retirement Income Thin — and How to Prepare
Key Points Certain expenses in retirement can be substantial and somewhat unpredictable. Have a plan for covering healthcare and housing. Budget accordingly so you can afford to fill your days with meaningful activities. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › Before you retire, there are a few key financial moves you should […]
More Retirees Heading Back to Work: 4 Things to Consider Before You Un-Retire
Key Points If you’ve retired early and are collecting Social Security, working could lower that benefit — at least temporarily. You might also lose means-based benefits from Medicaid or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. It could also affect subsidies you might be receiving via the Affordable Care Act’s Health Insurance Marketplace. The $23,760 Social Security […]
Thinking of a 401(k) Loan? Here’s Why You May Want to Reconsider.
Key Points Borrowing from a 401(k) might seem like an easy way to get access to money. You don’t need a credit check, and you’re repaying yourself instead of a bank. There can be huge consequences if you don’t repay your loan on time, so proceed with caution. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees […]
If You’ve Saved This Much for Retirement by Age 60, You’re Ahead of the Game
Key Points The average 60-year-old living in the United States has saved up a sizable sum for retirement. Most people at or around this age have much less than this highly skewed average. If you’re still working and contributing to your retirement account, you’ve got time to significantly expand your savings. The $23,760 Social Security […]
Here’s the Max Social Security Benefit at Age 70 — and How to Get It
Key Points Consistently strong taxable earnings are the foundation for above-average Social Security retirement benefits. Future retirees, however, must also earn these higher incomes for a little longer than most people wish to work. Holding off for as long as possible before claiming benefits also bolsters your future benefits. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most […]
Social Security Spousal Benefits: 3 Things to Know If You’re Planning to Sign Up
Key Points You may qualify for spousal benefits if you didn’t earn enough to get Social Security on your own. It’s important to know when you can file for spousal benefits. Also understand what income those benefits might lead to. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › Qualifying for Social Security benefits […]
Earned a Lot of Money in 2025? Prepare for This Medicare Shock in 2027.
Key Points Medicare has a standard premium it charges for Part B, while Part D costs are plan-specific. If you earn too much money, you could face surcharges on Part B and D premiums. Withdrawing from savings strategically and choosing the right retirement plan could help you avoid paying more for Medicare. The $23,760 Social […]
Here Are 9 Important Ages to Understand as You Approach and Move Through Retirement
Key Points Age 62 is the earliest you can collect Social Security. Age 65 is when you can enroll in Medicare. There are several other important ages, too. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › As you develop your retirement plan, you may notice that lots of decisions and events happen at […]
Age 55-64? Here’s the Average Retirement Savings for People Your Age
Key Points The overall averages are more than most people actually have saved up. The figure in question also depends on what’s considered “retirement savings.” Every future retiree needs to make a spending plan, as well as a personal growth projection. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › In theory, where your […]
Think Maxing Out a 401(k) Is Always Smart? This Might Make You Change Your Mind.
Key Points Though 401(k)s offer many benefits, it’s hard to get access to your money before a certain age. You may want to branch out to another account, especially if you don’t love your 401(k)’s investment choices. You should contribute enough to your 401(k) to get your workplace match in full. The $23,760 Social Security […]
2 Moves to Make in Your 40s to Get More Social Security in Your 60s
Key Points Your Social Security benefits in retirement are tied to your wage history. Growing your income could lead to larger checks. Reviewing your earnings record could help you avoid reduced benefits due to errors. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › When you’re in your 40s, you may not be so […]
One Social Security Reform With Bipartisan Backing That Spares Everyday Taxpayers
Key Points Social Security is six years from a potential 22% benefit cut. Eliminating the cap on wages subject to Social Security taxes would go a long way toward reducing the funding shortfall. It won’t be enough to solve the insolvency crisis on its own. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › […]
The 1 Medicare Move You Can’t Afford to Delay
Key Points Original Medicare does not put a cap on your out-of-pocket spending. If you want protection, a Medigap plan could help. Timely enrollment in Medigap could help you secure coverage that’s more affordable. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › Turning 65 comes with a long Medicare to-do list. You’ll need […]
Age 45-54? Here’s the Average Retirement Savings for People Your Age
Key Points The average retirement account balance for people aged 45 to 54 is over $128,000 above the median balance. Having access to higher contribution limits after turning 50 years old can help boost retirement savings. Where you retire — and what you plan to do — can be huge factors in how much you […]
Pulse
The One Social Security Milestone I’m Tracking (And Why You Should Too)
Key Points I am keeping track of how long I work for Social Security. My goal is to make sure I work for at least 35 years. I also want to make sure I am earning a good salary for 35 years. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › I am not […]
This Is the Biggest Reason I Won’t Ever Carry a Credit Card Balance
Carrying a credit card balance would make it harder for me to live within my means for the future. Here’s why I simply won’t do it.
Got a Home Offer Accepted? Here’s Your To-Do List
Having a seller agree to your offer for their home is only the beginning. Keep reading for what comes next in the home-buying process.
Your 0% APR Window Won’t Last Forever — Here’s How to Use It Right
Image source: Getty Images I’ve helped a lot of people use 0% intro APR credit cards to get out of debt — and I’ve seen just as many misuse them and fall further behind. The difference between succeeding and failing always comes down to how you use that interest-free window. Most people start strong… and […]
Botanists Find an Astonishing New Species of ‘Fairy Lantern’ in the Malaysian Rainforest
So-called ‘fairy lanterns’ (genus Thismia) are among the most extraordinary-looking of all flowering plants. These curious, leafless plants grow in the darkest depths of remote rainforests where they are seldom seen. There are some 90 species worldwide, distributed across the forests of Asia, Australasia, South America, and the USA. They all lack true leaves and […]
Here’s What Happens When You Build Equity in Your Home
Having home equity gives you more borrowing options and allows you to walk away with more money during a home sale. Read on to learn more.
Here’s the Average Social Security Retired Worker, Survivor, and Disability Benefit Check for 2026 — How Do You Compare?
Key Points For between 80% and 90% of retirees, Social Security income is a necessity, in some capacity, to make ends meet. A history-making cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) is on the way for Social Security’s more than 70 million traditional beneficiaries (retired workers, survivors, and workers with disabilities) in 2026. However, Social Security’s near-annual raises often […]
Good News in History, December 13
Happy Birthday to beloved entertainer Dick Van Dyke, who turns 96 years old today. Known for his beaming smile, physical dexterity, impeccable comic timing, and unforgettable screen roles, the actor, comedian, writer, singer, dancer, and producer starred in films such as Bye Bye Birdie, Mary Poppins, and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang—and on television in The […]
I’ve Been Saving for Retirement Since My Early 20s. Here’s 1 Thing I Wish I Would’ve Done Differently.
Key Points My first workplace 401(k) did not offer an employer match. Rather than speak up about that, I accepted it. Had I pushed for a better company retirement plan, I’d perhaps have considerably more money today. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › When I was in my early 20s, I […]
Worried About Social Security? 3 Ways to Plan for a Retirement Without It
A good backup plan can ensure you live retirement on your own terms.
4 Costco Healthcare Perks You Probably Don’t Know About
Healthcare expenses continue to rise, but a Costco membership could help you keep them at bay. Keep reading to learn how.
Why Is Knowing Your Full Retirement Age So Important When Claiming Social Security?
Before you make a Social Security claim, you need to know exactly when your full retirement age is because your choice to claim benefits on, before, or after it will affect your income for life.
People in 108 Countries Are Joining Forces to Do Good on ‘Good Deeds Day’ April 11
Over a million people from over 100 countries will take part Sunday in International Good Deeds Day. Launched 15 years ago in Israel as a small local event, the true spirit of dreaming big and getting things done has helped the project expand to include participants in 108 countries unifying for a day of good. […]
Here’s How to Beat the Average American’s Credit Score
Want a fantastic credit score? Find out what you need to do.
I’m Not Counting on Social Security COLAs to Carry Me Through Retirement. Here’s What I’m Doing Instead.
COLAs are designed to help retirees keep pace with inflation, but they’re not guaranteed. Rather than count on money that may never come, here’s what I’m doing instead.
The Average American Spends Over $500 Online Each Month. How Do You Compare?
Many Americans do more than half their shopping online, but 44% want to cut back. Learn whether you need to get your online shopping under control.
You Can Tap Into Your Retirement Savings Early for Disaster Relief — but Should You?
The California wildfires have devastated families, businesses, and entire communities. A recent analysis suggests that initial property losses from the fires could be as much as $45 billion. Insurance will cover some of those losses, but many will face high out-of-pocket costs with no obvious place to turn. Fortunately, you can tap your retirement savings […]
There Are Less Than 2 Weeks to Change Your Medicare Coverage for 2022
Millions of seniors get health coverage through Medicare. For some, that coverage kicks in once they retire. Others, meanwhile, may opt to sign up for Medicare even while they’re still working. Each year, existing enrollees get an opportunity to review their coverage for the upcoming year and make changes as necessary. It’s a period known […]
If You’ve Saved This Much for Retirement by Age 70, You’re Ahead of the Game
Key Points Delaying Social Security until you are 70 will maximize your monthly payment. If that age is your target, here’s how to tell whether you are ahead of your peers in saving. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › Saving for retirement is not an easy task. It helps to have […]
Farms in UK Saved This Beautiful Duke of Burgundy Butterfly From Extinction
The United Kingdom loves its butterflies: Its Butterfly Conservation is the world’s largest insect-focused conservation organization, and it’s just helped yet another species recover from dangerously low numbers. Ten years ago the Duke of Burgundy butterfly, named after an aristocrat from a faraway land, was found only in the southern Lake District and the North […]
Make Your Money Work for You With These 3 Passive Income Streams
You work for your money. Here’s how to make your money work for you with passive income from sources like REITs and index funds.
3 Signs You’re Not Making the Most of Your Aldi Shopping
Aldi can be a big source of savings. Read on to see why you might be missing out.
Your Social Security Number Might Mean Something. Here’s Why the Government Stopped Using These Hidden Codes.
New Social Security numbers over the past 13 years have gotten assigned differently from those of older Americans.
Mexico Leads Way For 7 US States to Cooperate in Sharing Water Amid 22-Year Drought
The story of the Southwest suffering under the second-driest period in 1,200 years is being turned into another one, of cooperation and dedication to preserving as much water as possible. Lake Mead, the site of the Hoover Dam, and the chief water resource of a sprawling series of desert communities and metropolises, is falling. But […]
Here’s What the Average Worker’s Social Security Benefit Could Be in 2035
Social Security’s trust funds are expected to be depleted by 2035, and that’s going to have an important effect on future benefits.
Check Your 401(k) Quarterly? You May Be In for a Big Shock
Some people check up on their investments on a weekly basis. Others do so on a monthly basis. But if you’re more of a hands-off investor, you may not check up on your 401(k) plan until your next quarterly statement arrives in the mail. Checking on your retirement plan quarterly doesn’t mean you’re being neglectful. […]
71% of Americans Worry Inflation Will Affect Their Retirement. Here’s What to Do if You Feel the Same.
Since the latter part of 2021, inflation has been soaring. That’s put a lot of pressure on consumers — particularly those living paycheck to paycheck without any money in savings to fall back on. Rampant inflation has been hurting retirees, too. Although Social Security got a generous cost-of-living adjustment going into 2022, the recent rate […]
Social Security Is Owed Tens of Billions of Dollars, and the Donald Trump Administration Aims to Collect. Will Your Benefit Be Garnished?
An up-to-50% monthly payout reduction may be a reality for more than 1,000,000 Social Security recipients.
Locals Are ‘Interrupting Violence’ in Minneapolis – One Lawn Chair at a Time
As city officials wrangle under the pressure to reduce urban violence and deal with demands from police unions, homeowners’ associations, and gun lobbyists, residents in some of the most violent neighborhoods in the country have opted instead to pull up a chair, and have a sit down. One such movement has been the 21 Days […]
Just 37% of Savers Made This Smart Move to Boost Their 401(k) Last Year. Here’s How to Become One of Them.
This set-it-and-forget-it policy could add hundreds of thousands of dollars to your 401(k).
Better Buy: Cisco or All 30 Dow Jones Stocks?
Even without giving it much thought it’s easy to dismiss Cisco Systems (NASDAQ: CSCO) as a prospective purchase. The networking giant’s guidance for the current quarter wasn’t as bold as expected, and besides, isn’t there a microchip shortage under way? A more broad-based bet like the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJINDICES: ^DJI) seems the safer […]
3 Ways AARP Can Save You Money
You don’t have to be over 50 to join AARP. Keep reading to learn about the discounts you’ll gain if you become a member.
How to Decide if a Credit Card’s Annual Fee Is Worth It
Are you considering a credit card with an annual fee? Check out a few considerations to keep in mind to make sure the fee is worth it.
Buying Your First Home in 2024? 4 Pitfalls to Steer Clear Of
It’s a tough time to buy a home. Don’t make things worse on yourself by falling victim to these mistakes.
Is an MBA Worth It?
Will an advanced business degree justify its high price tag? Here’s what you need to know before you enroll.
Is Now the Time to Collect Social Security? 5 Green Lights to Watch For
Here are just a few of the good reasons you might want to claim your retirement benefits.
Here’s Why I Stopped Making Extra Payments on My Mortgage
When I bought my home in 2021, I paid extra toward the principle every month. Then I did some math and decided to invest that extra money instead.
1 Little-Known Social Security Trick That Could Supercharge Your Benefits
Less than one-third of people are aware of this tactic.
4 Things You Need to Know About Costco’s Tire Center
Buying tires at Costco isn’t always the cheapest, but there are some other big perks. Read on to learn why Costco Tire Center is worth considering.
These 5 Stocks Moved the Market in 2021
It was a wild year in the market as investors juggled ongoing pandemic recovery, inflation, monetary policy, high valuations, and geopolitical issues. There were certainly big winners and losers. Some of the largest stocks moved the market last year, and they reveal important investment themes as we move into 2022. 1. Nvidia Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA) […]
Recent News
Choosing Between a Traditional and Roth IRA? Check This Comparison of the Two.
Traditional and Roth IRAs are excellent savings vehicles for retirement. But when deciding on something as important as where to potentially grow your investments, it’s essential to understand the differences between the two. You may prefer one over the other or even find that you want to contribute to both. A general overview With a […]
Donald Trump Wants to End the Taxation of Social Security Benefits — but This Isn’t the Cut-and-Dried Solution You Think It Is
What’s popular isn’t always the savviest solution.
3 Ways Costco Gets You to Spend More Money Than You Planned
Have you ever looked at your Costco receipt in disbelief? You aren’t alone. Here’s how Costco helps you spend more money than you think.
2 Little-Known Social Security Tips Could Earn Retirees Up to an Extra $2,163 Per Benefit Check
Social Security beneficiaries can undo claiming decisions in certain circumstances, which makes it possible to earn delayed retirement credits that increase their benefit.
Your Portfolio vs. a Bear Market: How to Come Out on Top
Investing in stocks is not for the faint of heart. Unlike other asset classes like real estate where investors rarely experience extreme volatility, the stock market has a tendency to test the emotional fortitude of its participants. And 2022 is just the latest episode in the saga. With the S&P 500 declining as much as […]
Bees Bite Plants to Make Them Flower Early, Surprising Scientists
Despite their name, there’s no bumbling in a bumblebee’s movements. They are busy surveying your yard for the tastiest and richest supplies of nectar and pollen. They’re also biting tiny chunks out of leaves as they go along, but are neither ingesting nor bringing the leaf fragments back to the hive. Instead, like so many […]
How to Read Your Social Security Statement — and What to Fix Before You Claim
Key Points Social Security provides a helpful statement to each of us. It details our past earnings and our expected benefits. It’s import to review it regularly and correct any errors. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › Just about all of us can look forward to receiving Social Security benefits in […]
94-Year-old Grandmother Wears Dream Wedding Dress, 70 Years After Being Denied Entry to Bridal Shop
A dream deferred doesn’t necessarily mean a dream denied, even if it takes seven decades to come true. In 1952, Martha and Lehman Tucker became man and wife. Although the marriage was a true romance, the wedding was missing one element the bride would have dearly loved to have—a traditional white lace wedding gown. But […]
Why You May Want to Buy Your Next Electric Vehicle at Costco
Looking to get an electric vehicle? Read on to see how you might reap huge savings on certain models at Costco.
Social Security Has Paid Some Retirees $29,238 So Far in 2024. Here’s How to Get Such a Big Payout
The maximum-monthly Social Security benefit is $4,873 per month, so seniors earning the highest check possible have received $29,238 in the first half of the year.
Featured
Nurse Rescues Her Patient’s Dog From the Shelter After Getting a Heart-Felt Phone Call
“With loyalty, I will endeavor to aid the physician in his work, and devote myself to the welfare of those committed to my care.” Every day, nurses take these words from the Florence Nightingale oath to heart, striving to ensure their patients’ welfare—but some, like registered nurse Jennifer Smith, take that commitment to care a […]
China’s Artificial Sun Just Broke a Record for Longest Sustained Nuclear Fusion Ten Times Over
At the headquarters of China’s most powerful nuclear fusion reactor, Chinese scientists rang in the new year by setting a world record for the longest-sustained operation of such a reactor, beating a world record they set last year 10 times over. China’s record-breaking Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST) in Heifei managed to heat plasma to […]
It’s Called Orion’s Fireplace: The Flame Nebula is Ablaze With Color Captured in Stunning New Images
There’s an adage in astronomy about how there’s always something new to find in the constellation of Orion—well, astronomers just found his fireplace. In a new series of images, the aptly-named “Flame Nebula” located in Orion appears like a raging inferno, as radiation released by young stars causes clouds of gases and dust to glow. […]
Good News in History, January 11
135 years ago today, Aldo Leopold, one of the godfathers of American land and wildlife management was born. Coming of age at the turning of the century, Leopold’s writing and philosophy towards nature would advance the budding American sense of conservation into a fully-developed discipline of naturalism. His book, A Sand County Almanac and Sketches Here […]
Woman Saves Bees By Rescuing Hives From Old Buildings With Her Bare Hands
If an overwhelming sound of buzzing is coming from the siding on your house, or from an old trashcan or other enclosed space, you’ve got a bee problem and will need a professional. If you live in Austin Texas, your beekeeper may arrive without so much as a protective glove on her hand. After quitting […]
Determined ‘Lassie’ Dog Leads New Hampshire Police Back to Scene of Owner’s Car Crash Down a Hill
A real-life Lassie saved the lives of two men who had overturned their Ford pickup truck and were lying injured in the cold. Reports are saying she is being treated to venison and back-scratches—a fitting reward for the faithful canine who braved the cold and high-speed traffic to save her owner. Tinsley, a Shiloh Shepherd, […]
Get Your US Taxes Filed Digitally for Free Using These Websites
No-one likes paying taxes, but truly no-one likes paying for a tax service. Fortunately there are a number of free online services for quickly navigating you through the 2,600 pages of the American Tax Code. Thinking about the extent of your taxes early will give you a head start towards getting them done in an […]
Why Cats Love to Sit in Boxes – Even Fake Ones, According to Science
A researcher has found that cats are susceptible to being fooled by optical illusions, during which they display their unquenchable desire to sit in boxes. Most millennial cat owners will be familiar with the phrase “If I fits, I sits,” used so often to caption delightful online videos of cats attempting to squeeze into a […]
Good News in History, January 10
40 years ago, “The Catch,” arguably the most iconic play in NFL history was completed to seal a remarkable 28-27 victory over the Dallas Cowboys with less than a minute remaining. Under pressure from 3 opposing players, San Francisco 49ers quarterback and sport legend Joe Montana manages to get off a throw to find Dwight […]
Heroic New York Police Officer Runs Out on Thin Ice to Rescue Dog Floundering in Frozen Lake – WATCH
This is the tense moment a police officer bolts onto a frozen lake to rescue a puppy that had fallen through the thin ice. Officer Jonathan Smith, 30, was called to Bond Lake near Lewiston, New York, after receiving reports of a Labrador that had fallen in about 50 yards from the shore. In this […]
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5 Important Steps to Managing Your 401(k)
Saving independently for retirement is a great way to help ensure that you have enough money to cover your living expenses as a senior. While Social Security may provide you with a nice chunk of cash, it generally isn’t enough to live on in the absence of other income. If you have a 401(k) plan, […]
Here’s the Real Problem With RMDs (It’s Not Just Taxes)
Key Points Required minimum distributions create an automatic tax headache. The consequences could extend well beyond having to write the IRS a check and landing in a higher tax bracket. You may want to consider a Roth conversion to ease the RMD burden. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › When retirees […]
Embracing Your Darker Moods Can Actually Make You Feel Better in the Long Run, Scientists Find
Pressure to feel upbeat can make you feel downbeat, while embracing your darker moods can actually make you feel better in the long run, according to new research. “We found that people who habitually accept their negative emotions experience fewer negative emotions, which adds up to better psychological health,” said study senior author Iris Mauss, […]
3 Unexpected Ways You Could Lose Your Social Security Benefits
Saving for retirement isn’t easy, and many retirees depend heavily on Social Security to make ends meet during their senior years. The average benefit amount is only around $1,500 per month, however, so it’s unlikely that your monthly checks will cover all your retirement expenses. For that reason, it’s wise to double-check that you’re squeezing […]
Are You Overlooking These Stocks of the Future?
What’s the projected lifespan of your investment account? For most of us, it’s measured in decades, or possibly even generations if you’re building a legacy. The investments that’ll carry you through — the stocks of the future — are the companies that are working now to extend their competitive advantage in the years ahead. Every […]
Here’s How to Turn $358 a Month Into $2 Million for Retirement
For years, a $1 million nest egg was considered the gold standard in retirement planning, but times have changed. Now, many people expect to spend closer to $2 million. Saving that much can seem like a tall order, but it actually might take less money than you think. In fact, there’s one path that can […]
Here’s the Average Social Security Benefit at Age 62 — and Why It’s Not the Best News for Retirees
Many retirees could find themselves in need of additional income beyond Social Security.
Think You’ll Live on Social Security Alone? Here’s the Reality Most Pre-Retirees Aren’t Prepared For.
Key Points Some people assume they’ll be able to cover all of their costs with Social Security. Social Security benefits may be cut in the future, but that’s not the only issue with that plan. Understand the role Social Security should play in your retirement income picture. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely […]
Should You Keep Working After Taking Social Security? It Depends on This 1 Factor
If you’re working in retirement, it could affect your Social Security benefits.
2 Winning ETFs to Bolster Your Retirement Portfolio
Whether it’s 40 years away or 10 years away, there’s never a bad time to think about investing for retirement. If you haven’t thought much about it outside of your employer-sponsored plan, know that you can easily supplement your retirement portfolio with exchange-traded funds, or ETFs. ETFs are baskets of stocks from an index or […]
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