Features
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Are You Part of the Shrinking Middle Class?The share of Americans in the middle class has been dwindling for decades. Here's how to tell if you're part of the shrinking middle class.
By Erin Bendig
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The Average Gen X 401(k) Balance Kind of BitesGen X, the first generation to rely on 401(k)s to build and grow a nest egg, is nearing retirement. 2026 data shows a hefty shortfall between the "magic number" for retirement and Gen X savings.
By Adam Shell
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The Hidden Costs of Inheriting an Investment PortfolioInheriting a portfolio isn't as straightforward as it may seem. Taxes, missed IRA deadlines and high fees can impact how much you'll actually receive.
By Coryanne Hicks
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Is High-Yield Savings Account Interest Taxable? What to Know for 2026Savings Accounts Think a high-yield savings account is a good idea? Don’t forget taxes on savings account interest.
By Kate Schubel
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States Sending 'Stimulus' Checks in 2026Rebate Checks Some people are receiving one-time state rebate checks. Is your state sending money?
By Kelley R. Taylor
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Diversifying With Direct Energy Beyond 60/40For the right investors, direct oil and gas investing offers diversification beyond stocks and bonds and meaningful tax advantages. Should you go for it?
By Jay R. Young
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How to Stop a Panic Move After a Dementia DiagnosisSiblings are alarmed after their father's Alzheimer's diagnosis leads their mother to embark on an isolating move. This is how they can help keep Dad safe.
By H. Dennis Beaver, Esq.
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5 Life Insurance Questions to Ask Before Buying a PolicySeptember is Life Insurance Awareness Month. What better time to take a look at the best way to find a policy that supports you and your family?
By Kevin Brayton, MBA
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How to Recover From Financial Setbacks: A Quick GuideIt takes courage to accept financial problems and identify what's wrong. The good news? You don't have to solve everything overnight, and you can start small.
By Alex Duffy
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Medicare Open Enrollment Is Starting SoonMedicare During the annual enrollment period each fall, you can select a new Medicare Advantage or Part D plan or switch back to original Medicare.
By Donna LeValley
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Best Bond Funds to BuyThe best bond funds provide income and stability for investors and are worthy additions to any well-balanced portfolio.
By Jeff Reeves
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Retirement Fears Keeping You Up? Sleep Well With These 5 SolutionsWorried about outliving your money or paying for health care? These five strategies can erase retirement anxiety and protect your savings.
By Donna Fuscaldo
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Best Dividend ETFs to Buy NowETFs Are you a set-it-and-forget-it income investor? These dividend ETFs generate cash through a variety of long-term strategies.
By Kyle Woodley
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The Average IRA Balance by Age and Generation in 2026A 36% increase in contributions versus a year ago and a bull market in stocks powered the average IRA account balance to a 10% increase in the second quarter of 2026.
By Adam Shell
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7 Gas-Saving Tips That Actually Work to Save Money at the PumpThese are gas-saving tips that will actually work for you and your car this year.
By David Muhlbaum
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How to Invest for Fall Rate Hikes by the FedThe probability the Fed raises interest rates by 25 basis points this week is now greater than 90%.
By Charles Lewis Sizemore, CFA
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What Happens to Your Savings Account When You Die?Your savings may have to go through probate if you don't name a beneficiary. Here's how to make it easier for your heirs to access the money.
By Sean Jackson
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The Average 401(k) Balance by Age and Generation in 2026A market rally drove 401(k) balances to new heights in the second quarter of 2026. How does your account balance stack up?
By Adam Shell
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Why Avoiding IRMAA Could Cost You More in RetirementDoing everything to avoid Medicare surcharges (IRMAA) is tempting, but obsessing over annual premium savings can increase your total retirement tax bill.
By Scott Tucker, Investment Adviser Representative
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The Expert Guide to a Tax-Free InheritancePassing down assets can leave kids with a massive tax bill. This week's Wealth Wise advice column explores the strategies advisers use to leave an inheritance tax-free.
By Maurie Backman
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How to Protect Your Assets From Long-Term Care CostsA revocable living trust is great for avoiding probate but won't shield savings from long-term care costs. Consider a Medicaid Asset Protection Trust instead.
By Evan H. Farr, CELA
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How to Build a Financial Plan Without Advice OverloadIn a digital world full of stock tips, influencers and self-proclaimed experts, keep your own goals at the forefront and be careful who you listen to.
By Lindsay Martinez, CFP®
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What Happens When You Inherit a House — With Your SiblingsInheriting a house with siblings can raise questions about ownership, taxes and costs. Learn your options for selling, keeping or buying out the home.
By Choncé Maddox
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Why the 4% Rule Could Fail for Retirement IncomeWhile the 4% rule is a useful starting point, a lengthy retirement can't rely on a one-time calculation. This is why you need a personalized income plan.
By Robert D. Blair, CFP®
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I'm a Retirement Editor, But My Parents' Estate Tripped Me Up With a Snake and a GunMy parents took meticulous care of their home and estate planning. But when it came time to sell their house of 54 years, all hell broke loose. Here are the five lessons I learned.
By Ellen B. Kennedy
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Financial Strategies to Afford a Long RetirementBridging the gap between your vision of retirement and real financial readiness requires planning, adaptable income strategies and expert guidance.
By Erin Culek
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5 Fall Trips That Are Even Better After You RetireTravel Take advantage of retirement’s flexibility with these five fall getaways offering beautiful scenery, great food, history and fewer summer crowds.
By Choncé Maddox
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7 Ways Parents Can Help Teens Start InvestingNew research shows 70% of teenagers are eager to get into the market — and they're looking to their parents for guidance.
By Jeannie Bidner, CFP®
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From Buffett to Beyoncé: What Celebrities Say About InheritanceSee what Warren Buffett, Shaq, Jay-Z and Beyonce, Dave Ramsey and Suze Orman have to say about passing down wealth.
By Karee Venema
