As the landscape of American families evolves, a distinct group is increasingly emerging: single mothers. Concurrently, there’s a noticeable rise in childless women who are often labeled as “childless cat ladies.” This term encapsulates a growing demographic that is choosing to forgo marriage and motherhood. The reduction of marriage rates has led to an increase
Personal
As financial markets evolve and inflation factors come into play, investors must stay abreast of the changing landscape of capital gains tax regulations. With new adjustments set to take effect in 2025, particularly concerning long-term capital gains, there lies a unique opportunity for savvy investors to optimize their tax strategies. The IRS has recently announced
The landscape of college financing is undergoing a significant transformation, particularly with the advent of new regulations in 529 college savings plans. Beginning in 2024, families can now transfer unused funds from a 529 plan directly to a Roth IRA belonging to the account beneficiary. This change is monumental as it allows families to access
Purchasing a car for the first time evokes a sense of nostalgia, yet the landscape has shifted dramatically over the years. When I bought my first vehicle—a Toyota Tercel—decades ago, it was not just about the excitement of ownership; it was also a rite of passage. However, as my daughter approaches her 17th birthday, I
As the financial landscape evolves, taxpayers and investors must remain vigilant and informed about changes that could significantly impact their fiscal responsibilities and opportunities. One of the substantial updates to consider comes in 2025 when the 0% capital gains bracket will increase, allowing more individuals and couples to sell profitable assets without incurring capital gains
As the U.S. presidential election approaches, a palpable sense of anxiety is gripping both investors and the broader financial market. The potential implications of this election on fiscal policies and economic stability have led to increased volatility that can cause considerable distress among market participants. Notably, the recent downturn in major stock indices underscores this
The impending wealth transfer is one of the most significant financial shifts in modern history, with estimates suggesting that approximately $84 trillion will change hands by the year 2045. This staggering figure, projected by Cerulli Associates, primarily concerns the generations of Baby Boomers, Gen X, and millennials. Stacy Francis, a certified financial planner and CEO
As today’s workforce nears retirement, a pressing concern takes center stage: Will I have sufficient funds for retirement? This question reverberates in the minds of many, igniting discussions around financial planning strategies and the perceived inadequacies of retirement income sources. A recent conversation featuring Christine Benz, director of personal finance and retirement planning at Morningstar,
As the tides of education continue to shift, there’s a noticeable contrast between financial aid eligibility and student enrollment in traditional four-year institutions. Recent analyses indicate a worrying trend—the number of high school graduates opting to pursue a four-year college education is decreasing. This departure raises questions about the accessibility and value of conventional higher
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has made significant adjustments to federal income tax brackets and standard deductions for the year 2025. This update, released on a Tuesday, outlines the new income thresholds that will be applicable for tax returns filed in 2026. These changes are crucial for taxpayers as they navigate their financial obligations and
