
Donna Fuscaldo
Donna Fuscaldo is the retirement writer at Kiplinger.com. A writer and editor focused on retirement savings, planning, travel and lifestyle, Donna brings over two decades of experience working with publications including AARP, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Investopedia and HerMoney.
Latest articles by Donna Fuscaldo
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3 Estate Planning Strategies That Thrive in Volatile MarketsDiscover how GRATs, Roth conversions, and gifting enable you to capitalize on market volatility and transfer wealth to heirs tax-free.
By Donna Fuscaldo
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5 Social Security Myths That Can Cost You ThousandsBefore you collect Social Security benefits, make sure you don't believe any of these falsehoods.
By Donna Fuscaldo
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Lump Sum vs. Monthly Pension Checks: 3 Questions To AskChoosing between a pension lump sum and monthly checks? Ask yourself these three essential questions before making an irreversible retirement decision.
By Donna Fuscaldo
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4 Household Expenses You Should Never Pre-Pay in RetirementYou might think locking in a rate saves you money, but financial flexibility is the real secret to keeping cash in your pocket for these bills.
By Donna Fuscaldo
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Beyond 401(k)s: How Millennials Are Ditching Gen X Retirement Strategies. Will It Pay Off?Sorry, Gen X, when it comes to saving for retirement, the younger generation views it differently.
By Donna Fuscaldo
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6 Mark Cuban Quotes Every Retiree Should Live ByThe billionaire businessman and Shark Tank alum has some advice that may surprise you.
By Donna Fuscaldo
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Retiring to Florida? These Hidden Costs Could Drain Your BudgetRetirees flock to Florida for tax breaks — but hidden costs from HOA fees to high insurance — can quickly break your retirement budget.
By Donna Fuscaldo
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Is Working 5 More Years Worth It? Balance Your Health vs SavingsRetiring now is tempting, but five extra years of work offer major perks. Here is how to weigh the health and financial trade-offs.
By Donna Fuscaldo
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Are You Ready To Retire At 70? Take Our QuizIs 70 the perfect age for you to retire? Answer these 5 questions and find out.
By Donna Fuscaldo
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The 4 Best 'Half-Back' States for Disillusioned RetireesFlorida retirement not what you expected? You aren't alone. Explore the top four half-back states offering affordable living options closer to family.
By Donna Fuscaldo
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How a Roth Conversion Can Save You Thousands in Medicare CostsAvoid costly IRMAA surcharges on Medicare Part B and D. See how timing your Roth conversion correctly can slash your future premiums.
By Donna Fuscaldo
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The 'Me-First' Rule of Retirement SpendingWorried about the stock market's ups and downs? Follow the 'Me-First' (flooring) rule, which ensures your bills get paid no matter what's happening with Wall Street
By Donna Fuscaldo
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Are You Ready To Retire at 67? Take Our Quiz to Find OutIs 67 the perfect age for you to retire? Answer these 5 questions and find out.
By Donna Fuscaldo
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Average Spending by Age for Those 55 and OverAre you overspending in retirement? See how average household spending shifts from age 55 to 75+ across housing, healthcare and transportation.
By Donna Fuscaldo
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No Heirs? Here Are 4 Ways to Spend Your Nest Egg Guilt-FreeNot planning your life around legacy, you're not alone. Why a growing wave of single and child-free retirees are unapologetically putting their own needs first.
By Donna Fuscaldo
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Got $2.5 Million Saved? Here Are the Huge RMDs You Must TakeIf you have $2.5 million saved for retirement, your RMDs will change every year. Find out exactly how much you must withdraw at ages 73, 75, 80 and 85.
By Donna Fuscaldo
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Is Your Current Home Your Forever Home? Take Our QuizFrom steep stairs to slippery floors, minor home design flaws can become major hazards in retirement. Take our quick quiz to find out if your house is ready for you to age in place.
By Donna Fuscaldo
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Moving to Florida or Texas for Retirement? 3 Questions to Ask YourselfRelocating to a tax-free state like Florida or Texas seems like a good idea, but unexpected expenses add up fast. Here is how to ensure your retirement move doesn't break the bank.
By Donna Fuscaldo
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Are You on Track? The Retirement Savings Benchmarks You Should Hit by 50, 55, 60 and 65Most 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
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Are You Ready To Retire at 65? Take Our Quiz to Find OutAre you in a good position to retire at 65? Find out with this quick quiz.
By Donna Fuscaldo
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Why Moving Near the Grandchildren Might Be Your Biggest Retirement MistakeMoving down the street from the grandkids may be the ultimate retirement flex. But before you call the movers, here's why this major life pivot can backfire.
By Donna Fuscaldo
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4 Questions to Ask Before You Spend Your Kids' InheritanceIf your kids are successful, do they need an inheritance? Ask yourself these four questions before passing down another dollar.
By Donna Fuscaldo
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The 'Busy Trap': 5 Ways a Hectic Schedule Can Ruin Your RetirementYou're supposed to slow down in retirement, but many do the exact opposite. Here is why treating retirement like a full-time job is a big mistake, and what you can do instead.
By Donna Fuscaldo
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Afraid to Dip Into Your Savings? 8 Guilt-Free Ways to Finally Enjoy Your RetirementStop worrying about the balance. From legacy gifts to bucket list travel, here are eight ways to spend your retirement savings without the guilt.
By Donna Fuscaldo
