Blog – Page 25

What Happened to Your Money?

If you don't know what happened to your money during the past year, it's time to find out. December and January are the perfect months to look back at what you earned, saved, and spent, as W-2s, account statements, and other year-end financial summaries roll in. How much have you saved? If you resolved last year to save more or you set a specific financial goal (for example, saving 15% of your income for retirement), did you accomplish your objective? Start by taking a look at your account … [Read more...]

How can I protect my personal and financial information from credit fraud and identity theft?

In today's digital world, massive computer hacks and data breaches are common occurrences. And chances are, your personal or financial information is now susceptible to being used for credit fraud or identity theft. If you discover that you are the victim of either of these crimes, you should consider placing a credit freeze or fraud alert on your credit report to protect yourself. A credit freeze prevents new credit and accounts from being opened in your name. Once you obtain a credit … [Read more...]

What’s so great about a college net price calculator?

If you're saving for a child's college education, at some point you'll want to familiarize yourself with a college net price calculator, which is an invaluable tool for estimating financial aid and measuring a college's affordability. Available on every college website, a net price calculator gives families an estimate of how much grant aid a student might expect at a particular college based on his or her personal financial and academic profile and the college's specific criteria for awarding … [Read more...]

The Financial Implications of a Chronic Illness

“There's no such thing as a one-size-fits-all financial plan for someone with a chronic illness. Every condition is different, so your plan must be tailored to your needs and challenges, and reviewed periodically. All investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal, and there is no guarantee that any investment strategy will be successful. The cost and availability of life insurance depend on factors such as age, health, and the type and amount of insurance … [Read more...]

How can I safely shop online this holiday season?

Shopping online is especially popular during the holiday season, when many people prefer to avoid the crowds and purchase gifts with a few clicks of a mouse. However, with this convenience comes the danger of having your personal and financial information stolen by computer hackers. Before you click, you might consider the following tips for a safer online shopping experience. Pay by credit instead of debit. Credit card payments can be withheld if there is a dispute, but … [Read more...]

Shopping for a New or Used Car

Should you buy a brand-new car or a used one? Consider these factors. It's time to replace your current car. But should you buy a new car or a used one? Consider the following advantages and disadvantages of each as you shop around for the vehicle that's right for you. Buying a new car Advantages. That new-car smell, a clean interior, and the latest technology and safety features...there's no denying the appeal of buying a new car. Aesthetics aside, there is an … [Read more...]

When should I submit college financial aid forms?

For the 2019-2020 school year, the federal government's financial aid form, the FAFSA, can be filed as early as October 1, 2018. It relies on current asset information and two-year-old income information from your 2017 tax return, which means you'll have the income data you need when you sit down to complete the form. This is a relatively new process. A few years ago, parents had to wait until after January 1 to file the FAFSA and use tax data for the year that had just ended, which forced them … [Read more...]

On the Road to Retirement, Beware of These Five Risks

No investment strategy can guarantee success. All investing involves risk, including the possible loss of your contribution dollars. There is no assurance that working with a financial professional will result in investment success. On your journey to retirement, you'll likely face many risks that have the potential to throw you off course. Following are five common challenges retirement investors face. Take some time now to review and understand them before your journey takes an … [Read more...]

Down the Donut Hole: The Medicare Coverage Gap

One of the most confusing Medicare provisions is the prescription drug coverage gap, often called the "donut hole." It may be clearer if you consider the gap within the annual "lifecycle" of Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Coverage. This also applies to drug coverage that is integrated into a Part C Medicare Advantage Plan. Annual deductible. Prescription drug plans typically have an annual deductible not exceeding $405 in 2018. Before reaching the deductible, you will pay the full cost of … [Read more...]

How to Protect Yourself Against Identity Theft

Because of the amount of paperwork and steps involved, fixing a credit report error can be a time-consuming and emotionally draining process. If at any time you believe your credit reporting rights have been violated, you can file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) at consumerfinance.gov. Remember that the IRS will never contact you by email to request personal or financial information. This includes any type of electronic communication, such as text messages and … [Read more...]