
Maurie Backman
Maurie Backman is a freelance contributor to Kiplinger. She has over a decade of experience writing about financial topics, including retirement, investing, Social Security, and real estate. She has written for USA Today, U.S. News & World Report, and Bankrate. She studied creative writing and finance at Binghamton University and merged the two disciplines to help empower consumers to make smart financial planning decisions.
Latest articles by Maurie Backman
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The Odd Couple: Is Renting Out a Room in Retirement for You?
Whether you're more Golden Girls or Felix Unger, renting out a room in retirement might make financial sense. You might even have fun.
By Maurie Backman Published
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I'm 60 with $4 million — can I have a luxury retirement?
With inflation and volatility, how careful should I be?
By Maurie Backman Published
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Americans to Trump: Help Us Save for Retirement
With a Social Security shortfall looming and many workers struggling to save for retirement, most Americans agree: It's time for the government to step in.
By Maurie Backman Published
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I'm 68 with $3.1 million and I want to keep working, but my spouse says it's time to call it quits.
I love my job and I love my wife. Can't I have both?
By Maurie Backman Published
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Tapping Your 401(k) at 55 Isn't the Great Plan You Think it Is. Here's Why
It's tempting to dip into your 401(k) at 55. But beware — you may rue that decision later. Here's what to do instead.
By Maurie Backman Published
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Don't Let Chronic Illness Costs Drain Your Retirement Savings: Here's How
If you have a chronic illness, you know that the proper care can be expensive and, in many cases, lifelong. Here's how to get the healthcare you need in retirement.
By Maurie Backman Published
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Popes Live Longer: Four Ways You Can Too
With all eyes on the conclave, it's hard to miss that popes live longer and are able to work into their 80s. Here are four of their strategies you can try.
By Maurie Backman Published
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Holding Wealth: Why Retirees Shouldn't Focus on Leaving an Inheritance
From funding a college education to paying for long-term care or simply treating your family, there are plenty of reasons to use your hard-earned wealth now.
By Maurie Backman Published
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Upsizing in Retirement: Why You Should (and Shouldn't) Do It
Upsizing, or buying a bigger home, can make your retirement feel more luxurious. There's room for grandkids and projects, but run the numbers carefully.
By Maurie Backman Published
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I'm 65 with $3 million saved: should I buy a vacation home?
I have my eye on a small but beautiful cottage. Will I regret tying up my money?
By Maurie Backman Published
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Should You Give up a Car in Retirement?
If you own two cars, shedding one might be easier than you think. The freedom from rising vehicle expenses can bring relief to retirees.
By Maurie Backman Published
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Trump's Immigration Policies and the Price of Home Healthcare: First 100 Days
President Trump's immigration policies may wallop your pocketbook if you rely on a home healthcare aide.
By Maurie Backman Published
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Should You Donate Money to the Social Security Trust Funds?
You can make charitable donations to Social Security, the safety net for older Americans. But will it make a lasting impact?
By Maurie Backman Published
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I'm 50 and my home is worth $5 million. Can I retire now?
It may be oh-so tempting to cash out your upscale home and leave work for good. But should you? We ask the experts.
By Maurie Backman Published
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When Should You Hand Over the Keys — to Your Investments?
The secret to retirement planning? "The best time to hand over the keys is before you’ve realized you need to hand over the keys."
By Maurie Backman Published
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Tariffs Are Paused: Here's What Retirees Should Stock up on Now
The massive China tariff is still in place, but others have been paused for 90 days. That gives retirees a window to stock up on some goods.
By Maurie Backman Published
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Retired and Worried About a Recession? Six Ways to Prepare
Retirees can plan for a near-term recession with a range of strategies, from small investment changes to significant lifestyle hacks.
By Maurie Backman Published
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You're Stuck Taking RMDs: Now What?
When you've got to take required minimum distributions (RMDs) make some lemonade. Here are our top ideas for using the extra cash to enrich your life — or that of others.
By Maurie Backman Published
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Will Dr. Oz Push Medicare Advantage Plans as Head of CMS Now He's Confirmed?
As original Medicare faces funding shortfalls, Dr. Oz might shift to private insurance providers through Medicare Advantage. Here's what we know so far.
By Maurie Backman Last updated
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You May Not Want to Downsize in Retirement: Here's Why
Your financial planner may urge you to downsize in retirement. Your kids may even pressure you. But be sure it's right for you before you make a move.
By Maurie Backman Published
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Five Fun (and Cheap) Ways to Stay Busy in Retirement
It's not all about the big trips and special occasions. There are plenty of ways to enjoy yourself day-to-day in retirement without breaking the bank.
By Maurie Backman Published
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Should You Start a Business in Retirement? Here's What You Need to Know
Whether you've always wanted to own your own company or just want to stay active or have more retirement money, starting a business in retirement is possible. Here's what to consider.
By Maurie Backman Published
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How RFK Jr. May Change Medicare and Your Retirement
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. now heads up Medicare. Here are five ways his leadership might change your retirement based on what we know so far.
By Maurie Backman Last updated
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What Would $1.46M In Savings Do For Your Retirement Lifestyle? How about $3.93M?
Americans think $1.46 million is the ideal amount of money to have saved for retirement, according to a survey. What would that amount of money mean for your lifestyle in retirement?
By Maurie Backman Published