Kathryn Pomroy
For the past 18+ years, Kathryn has highlighted the humanity in personal finance by shaping stories that identify the opportunities and obstacles in managing a person's finances. All the same, she’ll jump on other equally important topics if needed. Kathryn graduated with a degree in Journalism and lives in Duluth, Minnesota. She joined Kiplinger in 2023 as a contributor.
Latest articles by Kathryn Pomroy
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Free (or Cheap) College for Retirees in All 50 StatesWhether it's to complete a degree, gain new knowledge or just for fun, seniors and retirees can go or get back to school "on the cheap."
By Bob Niedt
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Age 60 to 63? Here’s How to Max Out the 'Super Catch-Up' 401(k) Before 2026 EndsSponsored by Savant
Put up to $35,750 into your 401(k) by December 31. Here's how.
By Kathryn Pomroy
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Medigap vs Medicare Open Enrollment: What's the Difference?Nearly 10,000 people in America turn 65 every day. Why is that significant? It signals Medicare eligibility and shines a light on Medicare supplement insurance, known as Medigap.
By Kathryn Pomroy
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Already Maxed Out Your 401(k) in 2026? Here's What to Do NextMaxed out your 401(k) contributions, but still want to tuck away more money for retirement before year-end? Here are seven ways you can take advantage of being a super saver.
By Kathryn Pomroy
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529 Plan Contribution Limits for 2026Each state sets 529 plan contribution limits, which range from $235,000 to $675,000
By Kathryn Pomroy
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The $100K Inheritance Blueprint: Where to Put Your Money FirstYou don't need a million dollars to transform your finances and set yourself up for retirement.
By Kathryn Pomroy
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Can You Sign Up for Medicare While Still on an Employer Health Plan?When you have private insurance through your employer, signing up for Medicare may still make sense. But beware some serious pitfalls.
By Kathryn Pomroy
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Should You Refinance Your Mortgage? Costs and BenefitsThinking about refinancing your mortgage? Learn how refinancing works, what it costs and when it makes financial sense.
By Kathryn Pomroy
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18 Things Medicare Gives You for FreeMedicare might not provide everything "for free," but some items and services are covered with no out-of-pocket costs for beneficiaries under specific conditions.
By Kathryn Pomroy
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Love Your Kids But Fear For Their Finances? You Need a Spendthrift TrustYou can secure your children's future without giving them unrestricted access to a windfall. Protect your legacy from poor decisions and creditors.
By Kathryn Pomroy
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10 Ways To Save Money Shopping With AmazonAmazon offers a lot of value if you know where to look. We'll show you money-saving strategies that can help you spend less on big purchases and everyday items.
By Kathryn Pomroy
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Social Security Payment Schedule: When Is Your November Check Arriving?The date your November Social Security benefit arrives depends on the day of the month you were born.
By Kathryn Pomroy
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The Cheapest Places To Retire in the USWhen you're trying to balance a fixed income with an enjoyable retirement, the cost of living is a crucial factor to consider. Is your city the best?
By Stacy Rapacon
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No One Wants to Ask Their Aging Parents About Their Finances, But Here's HowUse these tips to help you open the door to conversations about their financial health before it’s too late.
By Kathryn Pomroy
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Lessons from Dolly Parton: Protect Your Estate Plan From FightsFrom no-contest clauses to security protocols, advanced planning can get ahead of family disputes before they start, making it easier on your loved ones after you're gone.
By Kathryn Pomroy
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5 Reasons You Should Take Social Security At 62 (and 5 Reasons You Should Wait)There are sound reasons to take Social Security early. While many experts say it's best to wait until full retirement age to claim benefits, here are some reasons to start early.
By Kathryn Pomroy
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Married and Retiring? Here's How to Claim Thousands More in Social Security BenefitsBoth spouses can receive Social Security based on their individual earnings records and at what age they claim benefits
By Kathryn Pomroy
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Best Places to Retire in the USWhether it's warmer weather, quality health care or a low tax burden, these states offer retirees a sweet spot to live in after leaving work.
By Kathryn Pomroy
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Worst Places to Retire in the USThe worst places to retire tend to lag in quality of life, health care and affordability, according to WalletHub's 2025 survey. Is your state the worst?
By Kathryn Pomroy
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Why Leaving an Equal Inheritance to Your Children Could BackfireAlthough equal splits look fair on paper, they can ignore lifetime gifts, different needs or hard-to-divide assets and leave siblings fighting long after you’re gone.
By Kathryn Pomroy
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How Savvy Retirees Turn Second Homes Into Passive Income EnginesBuying a second home in retirement can be a pretty smart money move, especially if you’ve got a solid nest egg. Just make sure you weigh the pros and cons first.
By Kathryn Pomroy
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How to Estimate Your Social Security Benefits in Six StepsTo plan smartly for retirement, estimate your Social Security benefits years before you'll need the money. Here's how to do it.
By Kathryn Pomroy
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8 Estate Planning Secrets You Can Borrow from the Ultra-WealthyTry these proven strategies from the ultra-wealthy to protect your assets, cut taxes and pass on more to your heirs.
By Kathryn Pomroy
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How to Calculate RMDs (Required Minimum Distributions) for IRAsUnderstand when and how to calculate RMDs and avoid stiff penalties from your tax-deferred IRA.
By Kathryn Pomroy
