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 401(k) Shake-Up: Private Equity's Role and Risks
A new investment frontier is coming to your 401(k). We asked financial experts to break down what private equity means for your retirement.
By Maurie Backman
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I’m 57, with $1.8 million saved, and want a low-stress job for the next decade. My wife says keep cranking and retire at 62 instead. Who’s right?
We asked expert wealth planners for advice.
By Maurie Backman
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I missed the 2-Year IRMAA Rule. Now, my Medicare costs are skyrocketing. What are my options?
A spike in income could result in costly IRMAA charges on your Medicare premiums. We ask financial planning experts for advice.
By Maurie Backman
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I got laid off at 52 with $620,000 in savings, and I'm only being offered lower-paying jobs
We ask a financial planner how to handle sudden unemployment when you're older.
By Maurie Backman
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I’m a 61-year-old widow who’s dreading retirement, but I can’t work forever. What’s my move?
Retirement can be a gloomy prospect without a partner to share it with. We've asked the experts for their take on approaching this new chapter with confidence.
By Maurie Backman
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I Heard Tariffs Will Cost Families $2,800 This Year. I'm a Retiree on a Fixed Income. How Can I Prepare?
We ask retirement planning experts what to do.
By Maurie Backman
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I Planned to Travel in Retirement, but the Weak Dollar is Making a European Vacation Harder to Afford. What Can I Do?
Travel pros explain how you can afford a European vacation in retirement despite a weak dollar.
By Maurie Backman
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I thought I'd be set, but my $3 million isn't buying the retirement I imagined. What should I do?
If your nest egg isn't providing the retirement lifestyle you dreamed of, it's time to ask whether it's your money that's the problem — or your mindset.
By Maurie Backman
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I'm retired and want to save money, but my adult son wants to move back home after his divorce. What should I do?
We asked expert financial advisers for advice and perspective.
By Maurie Backman
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High Mortgage Rates Are Holding My Retirement Hostage: Can I Still Downsize and Retire?
We ask retirement wealth advisers what to do.
By Maurie Backman
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I own 2 homes, but have 3 kids. Can my estate plan make it fair?
We ask estate planning attorneys for guidance.
By Maurie Backman
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Mom needs a nursing home. Should I spend down her assets so she qualifies for Medicaid?
We asked expert financial advisers for their advice.
By Maurie Backman
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'You Can't Take It With You.' Five Things You Lose in Retirement
There will inevitably be things you lose in retirement. But it's not all gloom and doom. Most people find happiness in retirement: here's how.
By Maurie Backman
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I'm 58 and unexpectedly inherited $650K. Does this change my retirement timeline?
We asked an expert financial adviser to weigh in.
By Maurie Backman
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Five Roth IRA Pitfalls Your Adviser May Not Tell You About
Heffalump traps may be imaginary, but Roth IRA pitfalls are very real. They could upend your retirement if you're unaware of them.
By Maurie Backman
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I'm 52 with $2.1 million in retirement savings: Can I afford a second home?
Buy a second home now, or wait until retirement? It depends.
By Maurie Backman
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I’m burned out at work, but I dread retirement boredom and loneliness. Now what?
We asked the experts what to do when you're stuck on the fence.
By Maurie Backman
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RV Living or Vacation Home? What's Best for Your Retirement?
You may fantasize about RV living or owning a cabin in the mountains or by the beach. Both options can be affordable and fun, but kick the tires first!
By Maurie Backman
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I Don't Need Social Security. Should I Skip Benefits and Save Them for People Who Do?
What happens when you forgo Social Security benefits?
By Maurie Backman
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Is Your Will 'Fair'? Estate Planning Is About More Than Money
Your will and estate plan should leave your heirs feeling loved. An expert weighs in on how to avoid family feuds after you're gone.
By Maurie Backman
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Over 50 and Still Paying Student Loans? Here's Some Help
It's the club no one wants to join. But if you are over 50 and still paying student loans, there are ways to tackle both debt and retirement savings.
By Maurie Backman
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I'm 60 with a $4.2 million nest egg. Can I stop saving and start spending until I retire at 65?
Should I continue contributing to my 401(k) or treat myself now?
By Maurie Backman
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Your Estate Plan Needs an Advance Directive for Dementia
Here are free tools to add an advance directive for dementia to your estate plan. These directives detail your preferred medical care for each stage of dementia.
By Maurie Backman
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Will RMDs Ruin the 4% Rule for You?
Don't let required minimum distributions (RMDs) rain on your retirement parade.
By Maurie Backman
