Features

It's surprisingly easy for our finances to go off the rails. This practical plan can help you regain control by taking one positive step every month.

By Anthony Martin

The Social Security decision for the higher earner in an age-gap marriage is tricky, as claiming age can determine a widowed spouse's income for years.

By Ray R. Harris, MBA, RSSA®

The widow's penalty is when losing a spouse triggers a huge financial hit. It's an unfortunate twist of the tax system, but the good news is you can plan for it.

By Kyle Hammerschmidt, Investment Adviser

Most people guess their retirement number — don't be one of them. See how much you should save based on your current age and income.

By Donna Fuscaldo

Retirement unlocks a thrilling (and slightly scary) new world of possibilities. Why not kick it off with an overseas journey — the ultimate way to step boldly into this exciting new chapter of your life?

By Kathryn Pomroy

While the overall divorce rate has seen a small but steady decline, gray divorces have been on the rise since the 1990s.

By Donna LeValley

TSA PreCheck has been around for over a dozen years and has millions of users. Is the not-so-exclusive line still worth the cost?

By Alexandra Svokos

The best all-in-one ETFs are diversified funds that can simplify investing with a single low-cost holding.

By Tony Dong, MSc, CETF

Worried about rising rates? Here’s how to avoid a bigger bill after you stop working.

By Richard Eisenberg

Ask the Editor In this week's Ask the Editor Q&A, Joy Taylor answers tax questions from readers who are still awaiting their tax refunds and problems with calling the IRS.

By Joy Taylor

The cost of summer vacations at home and abroad is higher this year, but that doesn't mean you have to miss out. These tips can help prevent lasting damage.

By Tony Drake, CFP®, Investment Advisor Representative

With governors redrawing the Opportunity Zone map for 2027-2036, investors who act now could shape where tax-advantaged capital flows for the next decade.

By Daniel Goodwin

It makes sense for your husband to take care of finances while you look after the kids — right? Wrong. Here's why you need to get up to speed — fast.

By Tracy Byrnes, CDFA®

Business owners often struggle to secure funding because they don't realize commercial lending is more flexible than traditional banks. Here are some options.

By Christopher Cornella

Find out when you can expect your 2026 Social Security payments and the date you get paid when your scheduled day falls on a holiday.

By Donna LeValley

Compare your average Social Security check with others of your age, and plan for the future.

By Donna LeValley

Do you live in this New England state with the heftiest check? Your Social Security benefit can be affected by where you live.

By Donna LeValley

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

By Donna LeValley

Lottery Taxes A Mega Millions jackpot winner will take home much less than the advertised jackpot amount, thanks to taxes.

By Katelyn Washington

Income Tax It might feel as if the IRS taxes most of your hard-earned money, but some types of income are nontaxable.

By Kelley R. Taylor

In some cases, you could buy life insurance instead and get a better deal in protecting your spouse. There are some things to keep in mind, though.

By Joe F. Schmitz Jr., CFP®, ChFC®, CKA®

Social Security The Social Security COLA is just one aspect of your benefits that can impact your tax bill.

By Kelley R. Taylor

Tax Changes If you’re an older adult, a new bonus tax deduction could provide a valuable tax benefit. Here's how it works.

By Kelley R. Taylor

Check out the best 529 plans of 2026 to find the best plan for your child or grandchild’s college savings.

By Erin Bendig

How the 529 grandparent loophole lets you fund a grandchild’s college education without impacting their financial aid.

By Erin Bendig

Are you beating your peers on average net worth? Get tips from financial advisers on how to grow your wealth over time and have cash when you need it.

By Adam Shell

IRS Notices Taxpayers have been told for years that the IRS never sends a text message. But under 2026 digital rules, the agency can reach out for three specific reasons.

By Kate Schubel