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Credit Score News Could Help First-Time Homebuyers
Lenders who sell mortgages to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac used to only be able to use FICO for loan qualification. Now there's VantageScore, owned by the three major credit bureaus.
By Ella Vincent Published
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Headed for the Retirement Red Zone? This Plan Avoids Fumbles
These strategies help safeguard your nest egg and ensure long-term financial success during the five years before retirement and the five years after.
By Dustin L. Tait Published
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I'm a Financial Planner: How You Can Get Started With RMDs
The IRS will come knocking for its share of your tax-deferred retirement savings when you hit 73, but planning ahead for RMDs will ensure you're ready.
By Eric Heckman, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®, CRTP Published
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Expert Tips on How to Replace Your Paycheck in Retirement
Bills don't stop once you retire — and you can't expect your Social Security checks to cover them all. Don't risk running out of money. Instead, make a plan.
By Rick Seiler Published
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Smart Strategies for Paying Your Child an Allowance
By giving your kids money to spend and save, you’ll help them sharpen their financial skills at an early age.
By Ella Vincent Published
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The Mulligan Rule of Retirement — Seven Mistakes You Can Fix
Use the Mulligan Rule to undo these seven costly retirement errors. While you can’t go back in time, some retirement choices allow for a “correction shot.”
By Jacob Schroeder Published
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My First $1 Million: Retired Educator/Administrator, 67
Ever wonder how someone who's made a million dollars or more did it? Kiplinger's My First $1 Million series uncovers the answers.
By Joyce Lamb Published
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Pets to Paintings: Little Things Can Cause Big Estate Trouble
Sentimental items might have little monetary value, but their disposition can cause hurt feelings. Talking about who wants what and labeling items can help.
By Eric W. Bond Published
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Take Advantage of Retirement Tax Benefits While They Last
Recent tax changes, including an extra $6,000 deduction for those 65 and older, present a golden opportunity for retirees to reduce their tax bills.
By Ryan Polimeni Published
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Why Unmarried Same-Sex Couples Need an Estate Plan
When illness or death occurs within an unmarried same-sex partnership, family members can step in and push the surviving partner out. An estate plan is vital.
By Patrick M. Simasko, J.D. Published
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How Smart Retirees Turn a Second Home Into a Financial Asset
Buying a second home during retirement, especially if your savings are solid, can improve your lifestyle or be a strategic financial choice, but it requires meticulous planning.
By Kathryn Pomroy Last updated
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The Best 3-Year CDs of 2025
Savings Achieve your savings goals and outpace inflation with our top 3-year CDs picks.
By Sean Jackson Last updated
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North Dakota Tax Guide 2025
State Tax Explore North Dakota's 2025 state tax rates for income, sales, property, retirement, and more. Learn how North Dakota compares nationwide.
By Katelyn Washington Last updated
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EV Charger Tax Credit: What You Need to Know for 2025 and 2026
Tax Credits The federal EV charger tax credit for electric vehicle charging stations and equipment is going away sooner than expected.
By Kelley R. Taylor Last updated
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Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs): Rules, Deadlines, and SECURE 2.0 Changes
RMDs Here are some basics to know about RMDs and how these distributions can impact your taxes.
By Kelley R. Taylor Last updated
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Tax Breaks for Veterans: Retirement Pay, Disability and State Tax Exemptions to Know
Veterans Veterans may be eligible for certain federal and state tax benefits.
By Kelley R. Taylor Last updated
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More Than 1 Million Toyota, Lexus and Subaru Vehicles Recalled for Camera Issue. Is Your Vehicle Affected?
A software glitch in the Panoramic View Monitor system causes blank or frozen rear-camera images, triggering a massive recall of 2022-26 models.
By Choncé Maddox Published
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Average 401(k) Match: Do You Work for a Generous Company?
Here is the average 401(k) match and the top 30 companies as measured by their match policies. A generous 401(k) match provides a more secure retirement.
By Christy Bieber Last updated
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My Four Pieces of Advice for Women Anxious About Handling Money
Talking about money can help you take control of your finances.
By Janet Bodnar Published
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Did My $50,000 Starbucks Habit Ruin My Retirement Plan?
The real retirement cost may not be as devastating as it seems.
By Donna Fuscaldo Published
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Ask the Editor: Deducting Car Loan Interest
Ask the Editor In this week's Ask the Editor Q&A, Joy Taylor answers questions on the new tax deduction for paying interest on vehicle loans.
By Joy Taylor Published
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Costco Gold Bars Keep Selling Out. Are They a Smart Investment?
How Costco's bullion program works, how to get the best deal and whether it makes sense for investors.
By Choncé Maddox Published
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Use This Stock Market Recipe for a Well-Diversified Portfolio
For years, large U.S. stocks were all you needed for a diversified portfolio. A broader mix is better now.
By Nellie S. Huang Published
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A Financial Planner's Guide to a Stress-Free Adventure Abroad
Start by looking at flight/accommodation costs, have a flexible schedule, seek out credit card rewards, prep for health issues and plan to cook your own food.
By Shane W. Cummings, CFP®, AIF® Published
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How Smart Women Can Plan for Financial Freedom After a Curveball
Proactive planning and professional guidance can help to build your confidence and give you clarity when you're navigating major life transitions.
By Nicole Romito, CFP®, CDFA™ Published
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Vanguard ETFs vs Mutual Funds: Which Make for Better Investments?
mutual funds Distinguishing Vanguard ETFs vs mutual funds is key for investors considering Vanguard is one of the largest low-cost fund sponsors in the U.S.
By Kyle Woodley Last updated
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Eight Habits for a Happy Retirement
happy retirement A long and happy retirement takes more than just money. Here are eight things happy retirees do – besides dutifully saving the money they’ll need to quit the 9-to-5 grind.
By Jacob Schroeder Last updated
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I Inherited $50,000, and My Retirement is Already Fully Funded. Where's the Best Place to Store It for Maximum Growth?
These savings solutions can help you maximize returns without the risk.
By Sean Jackson Published
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Retirees, Here's How to Make a Medigap Switch to Save Money
Making Your Money Last Kiplinger provides guidance on how to make a Medicare Medigap switch to get the best plan for your budget.
By David Rodeck Last updated
