The concept of automated 401(k) plans has been widely embraced by employers in recent years. However, new research reveals that the positive impact of these initiatives may not be as significant as previously assumed. A study published by the National Bureau of Economic Research highlights overlooked factors that diminish the long-term effectiveness of policies like
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As the season of fall foliage and pumpkin spice lattes approaches, the job market may also be turning over a new leaf. Career experts have noticed a trend known as the “September surge,” where more job postings become available after Labor Day. This surge is attributed to the end of a summer slowdown when job
Retirees who are concerned about the rising costs of prescription drugs have a glimmer of hope on the horizon. Starting in 2025, Medicare drug plan enrollees will have their annual out-of-pocket drug costs capped at $2,000. This change is expected to bring significant relief to participants in Medicare drug coverage, also known as Medicare Part
Many investors are aware of asset allocation, where they balance stocks and bonds to manage investment risk and return. However, another crucial aspect that is often overlooked is asset location. This strategy focuses on minimizing taxes to enhance after-tax returns, particularly for wealthier investors. Asset location is especially beneficial for investors in the 24% federal
The U.S. Department of Education recently announced additional details about the rollout of the new Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the upcoming academic year, aiming to address the issues that plagued the previous college aid application cycle. The 2025-2026 FAFSA will undergo a phased rollout, starting with beta testing for limited student
In a year where the stock market is performing exceptionally well, it is crucial to explore alternative investment strategies that can help in balancing portfolios and minimizing future tax liabilities. One such lesser-known tactic is tax-gain harvesting, which involves strategically selling profitable assets in brokerage accounts during low-income years, such as early retirement or periods
Ignoring a big tax bill can have serious consequences that extend beyond financial penalties. In fact, the federal government now has the authority to revoke or limit your passport if you have a “seriously delinquent tax debt,” which is defined as owing more than $62,000 in federal taxes, penalties, and interest that you have repeatedly
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz recently shared his personal story about how Social Security survivor benefits played a crucial role in helping his family cope with the loss of his father when he was just 19 years old. This financial support allowed his family to maintain their dignity and stability during a time of crisis. With
In recent years, the cost of attending college has reached staggering heights, with some institutions charging nearly six figures per year. Schools like New York University, Tufts, Brown, Yale, and Washington University in St. Louis have a sticker price of over $90,000 for the 2024-25 academic year. With tuition adjustments averaging around 4% annually, it
The recent data breach at National Public Data, a background check company owned by Jerico Pictures Inc., has brought to light the exposure of personal information on an unprecedented scale. Reports suggest that over 2.7 billion personal records may have been leaked, with Social Security numbers, names, email addresses, phone numbers, and mailing addresses among
