This year marked a rather significant increase in benefits for those receiving Social Security. The 2018 COLA (Cost of Living Adjustment) was one of the largest in the past decade, giving retirement beneficiaries an extra 2% on their checks (the most significant jump since 2012.) Unfortunately, there are forces at work that can easily chip…
Recent Articles
How to Be Good with Money: 5 Simple Steps That Anyone Can Take
Ignoring your finances because you’re just not good with money? It might sound harsh, but here’s the truth: that’s an excuse. Sure, there are people who may be naturally more inclined to be savers while others like to spend. But if you fall into the “spender” category, it doesn’t mean you’re doomed to a poor…
How Much Money Is Enough To Retire?
If you ask ten different people how much money is enough to retire, you can expect ten different answers. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, as the idea of what makes a comfortable or good retirement varies based on personal goals and preferences. The truth is, there’s no magic number that will serve as a…
Do You Need to Pay Taxes on Your Social Security Benefits?
Tax season always brings about a bit of panic, as those who are getting Social Security benefits may be filing their first return since they started receiving payments. These payments, while a welcome addition to their financial support system, can feel uncertain (or even a bit burdensome) as the issue of tax liability comes to…
5 Smart Things to do With Your Tax Return This Year
It’s that time of year again—tax time. If you haven’t already filed, you have until April 17, 2018 to do so. Yes, you read that right. The deadline to file is April 17 this year instead of April 15. Due to the fact that April 15 falls on a Sunday, and Monday is Emancipation Day,…
How Your Government Pension May Impact Your Social Security Benefits
Retirees who are entitled to a government pension can have an unpleasant surprise waiting for them when they apply for their Social Security benefits. Two different Social Security provisions for retired government workers—the Government Pension Offset and the Windfall Elimination Provision—can reduce the amount of your Social Security benefit checks. If you are eligible for…
5 Options to Explore If You Don’t Have Enough to Retire
Approaching retirement should be an exciting time for you. This is it: the goal you’ve been working towards since you took your first job is finally on the horizon. But what if you don’t have enough to retire? In that case, any feelings of excitement or happiness can quickly turn into fear, even panic. You…
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