Features

How Federal Reserve Rate Decisions Impact Mortgage Rates in 2026

Mortgage rates are still fluctuating after a series of Fed rate cuts. Learn how interest rate changes affect your monthly payments and what buyers should watch for this year.

By Dori Zinn

Three Reasons to Skip the 401(k) Super Catch-Up

Older workers may want to forgo the 401(k) super catch-up and put their money to work elsewhere.

By Maurie Backman

The Average Monthly Social Security Check: Latest Info

The average monthly Social Security check amount might surprise you. Here's a look at November's numbers and why they matter.

By Donna LeValley

12 Tax Strategies Every Self-Employed Worker Needs in 2026

Your Business Navigating the seas of self-employment can be rough. We've got answers to common questions so you can have smoother sailing.

By Roxanne Bland

When Are Estimated Tax Payments Due in 2026?

Tax Deadlines You make quarterly estimated tax payments to the IRS if you are self-employed or don’t have taxes withheld from your income for other reasons.

By Kelley R. Taylor

5 Core Stocks Every Investor Should Own in 2026 and Beyond

Core stocks generate reliable and growing returns for you and your portfolio. Here are five core stocks we like for the long term.

By Kyle Woodley

7 Hybrid Adviser Services, Reviewed

These hybrid adviser services aim for a sweet spot that combines digital investing with a human touch.

By Nellie S. Huang

If You'd Put $1,000 Into UPS Stock 20 Years Ago, Here's What You'd Have Today

United Parcel Service stock has been a massive long-term laggard.

By Dan Burrows

5 Ways Trump Could Impact Your Portfolio This Year

Investors are facing a changing landscape this year, from lower interest rates to a massive tax and spending bill. Here's how to prepare your portfolio.

By Karee Venema

I'm retiring with $2.6 million. I'm worried about RMDs and taxes.

We asked professional wealth planners for advice.

By Maurie Backman

For HNW Retirees, Tax and Estate Planning Are the Main Events

Tax and estate planning can have far-reaching results for wealthy retirees and are just as important as investment management. This financial adviser explains.

By Evan T. Beach, CFP®, AWMA®

This Diversification Tool Adds Resilience to Your Portfolio

Municipal bonds can provide a steady income and stability that's separate from federal shifts and global economic headwinds.

By Paul Malloy

What Will Happen to Your Business When You Retire?

Stepping away from work is extra challenging when you're a business owner, and a successful retirement requires planning that looks beyond the financials.

By Steve Parrish, J.D., RICP®, CLU©, ChFC©, AEP©

Best Bond ETFs to Buy Now

ETFs Bond ETFs are useful in a diversified portfolio, but investors should be aware of interest rate sensitivity, credit quality, liquidity and tax efficiency.

By Tony Dong, MSc

Quiz: Understanding Roth Conversions

Quiz Discover if a Roth conversion is the right move for you by taking our quick quiz.

By Donna LeValley

High-Yield Savings Accounts to Get Before the Fed Meeting

Even with rate cuts, some savings accounts can help you earn a rate that outpaces inflation and reaches your goals quickly.

By Sean Jackson

How to Cut Your Auto and Home Insurance Bills This Year

Protecting your car and home with insurance is getting a lot more costly. Use these tips to minimize the pain of rising premiums.

By David Rodeck

Debunking 6 Social Security Retirement Myths

Advertiser Content Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC

Sponsored Get the facts on how the Social Security program works for retirees.

By Ameriprise Financial

How Prices Have Changed in Trump's First Year

Trump campaigned on bringing prices down for Americans. Here's where prices stand one year into his second term.

By Rachael Green

When Is the Next Fed Meeting?

Markets expect interest rates to remain unchanged at the next Fed meeting.

By Dan Burrows

Your 5-Step Guide to Discovering Whether a Lawyer Is Shady

Research shows you can't rely on some state bar websites to vet a lawyer you're considering hiring. Here's how to check out a lawyer before you hire.

By H. Dennis Beaver, Esq.

Steps to Keep Your Student Focused on College, Not Finances

Too many students drop out due to financial strain. This plan can help families plan for the costs and get timely aid that sees students through to graduation.

By Sravani Atluri

How to be the Chief Vision Officer of Your Advisory Practice

The key is to transition from a tactical "doer" to a strategic "chief vision officer" by building the teams, processes and brand so your practice can grow.

By Ben Sullivan, CFA®, CFP®

How to Plan a (Successful) Family Reunion

From shaping the guest list to building the budget, here's how to design a successful and memorable family reunion.

By Emma Patch

These Unloved Energy Stocks Are a Bargain

Cleaned-up balance sheets and generous dividends make these dirt-cheap energy shares worth a look.

By David Milstead

You've Heard It Before, But This Investment Advice Still Pays Off

"Time in the market beats timing the market" — been there, done that, right? But don't write off the underlying advice. There's a reason it's a popular saying.

By Andrew Rosen, CFP®, CEP

How Advisers Can Respond When Clients Ask About Crypto in 401(k)s

Advisers need to establish clear frameworks to address client interest, navigate risks like volatility, and ensure they meet their fiduciary responsibilities.

By Ben Sullivan, CFA®, CFP®