3 Signs You’re Not Ready to Apply for Social Security Yet

Many people are mentally ready to start receiving Social Security checks long before they become eligible for them at 62. But wanting checks and actually applying for them are two separate things. If you want to get the most out of the program, there are a few key steps you need to take before you […]

2 Social Security Changes That Have Happened in the Last 4 Weeks

If you’re struggling to keep up with all the Social Security changes that have happened so far this year, you’re not alone. The Trump Administration has put a lot of effort into revamping the program so far, leading to frequent rule changes, some of which have already been amended or reversed. The last four weeks […]

Here’s Exactly How Social Security Fits Into My Retirement Plans

I’ve spent years planning for retirement. Even when my husband and I were broke college students, I spent an inordinate amount of time considering how to make eventual retirement work. Although planning for retirement began as a college project, the habit stuck with me. And even though I’ve known for years that I don’t want […]

The Average 401(k) Balance for Americans 55 to 64 May Surprise You

A lot of people have great intentions when it comes to saving for retirement. The problem? Life tends to get in the way. It’s all too easy to put off retirement savings in your 20s because you’re earning only an entry-level wage. From there, you might plan to start funding a retirement plan in your […]

I Have Too Many Credit Cards — Which Ones Should I Cancel?

Image source: Getty Images In the past seven years, my wife and I have opened 22 credit cards. Twenty-two! Looking for a secure place to grow your savings? See our expert picks for the best FDIC-insured high-yield savings accounts available today – enjoy peace of mind with competitive rates. I know, it sounds reckless. But […]

Do Social Security Recipients Gain Buying Power Every Year? Here’s the Truth.

The earliest age to sign up for Social Security is 62. However, plenty of people live past their early 90s, which means that some Social Security recipients end up collecting benefits for more than 30 years. Clearly, over a period that long, the value of a dollar can erode. That’s why Social Security benefits are […]

Need Cash in a Hurry? 2 Things to Know Before Tapping Your Retirement Savings.

Many people have found themselves in situations where an unexpected expense comes up, and they need money quickly. If you planned ahead, you might be able to tap into your emergency fund to cover the expense. But your emergency fund might not be enough, and not everyone has one. Borrowing money might be possible in […]

Here’s the Average Social Security Retired-Worker Benefit Right Now

For most retirees, Social Security represents more than just a payment deposited into their bank account once a month. It serves as a foundational puzzle piece to their financial well-being. According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, Social Security lifted more than 22 million people above the federal poverty line in 2023, some […]