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# Saving to Invest

Personal Finance & Tax News

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## Posts

- [2026 Updates: Colorado (CO) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/colorado-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - 2026 Updates: Colorado (CO) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility How much is SNAP in Colorado in 2026?
- [When Can I File and Check My State Tax Refund? 2026 State-by-State Status Tracker Links](https://savingtoinvest.com/when-can-i-file-and-check-my-state-tax-refund/) - Most of the refund attention every season goes to the federal IRS refund, but over 40 states also collect income tax — and every one runs its own processing schedule, its own refund tracker, and its own delays. State refunds routinely take 2 to 12 weeks, often landing after your federal refund even when you
- [How Car Rental Companies Sneak Extra Fees Onto Your Bill — and How to Fight Back](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-car-rental-companies-live-avis-rip-you-off-with-extra-fees-for-linking-to-your-frequent-flier-reward-program/) - This post started with my own Avis rental years ago, where the final bill came in noticeably higher than the quote — charges I only discovered after returning the car. The dollar amount wasn't huge; the way it was disclosed felt deliberately buried. Judging by the comments this post has collected since, my experience was
- [Grocery Benefits for Seniors in 2026-2027 with Medicare Advantage Food Cards, SNAP, and What Changed](https://savingtoinvest.com/grocery-benefits-under-medicare-advantage-and-snap-for-seniors/) - If you've seen ads for "free Medicare grocery cards" — or had one and lost it this year — here's the straight story for 2026: those benefits got much harder to get. The federal pilot program (VBID) that let many Medicare Advantage plans hand out grocery allowances based on income ended December 31, 2025, cutting
- [2026-2027 Medicare Premiums, Deductibles and IRMAA — Part A, B and D Amounts](https://savingtoinvest.com/medicare-premiums-and-coinsurance-rates-for-part-b-medical-insurance-and-part-a-hospital-insurance/) - The headline number for 2026: the standard Medicare Part B premium is $202.90 per month, one of the larger year-over-year jumps in the program's history, with the Part B annual deductible at $283. For most retirees the premium comes straight out of the monthly Social Security check — which is why the size of each
- [The Personal Exemption Is Gone for Good — What Replaced It on Your 2026 Tax Return](https://savingtoinvest.com/losing-my-4050-personal-exemptions-in-2018/) - Quick answer for anyone searching: the personal exemption is permanently gone. The $4,050-per-person deduction last existed on 2017 returns, was suspended by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) from 2018 through 2025, and Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) made the elimination permanent in 2025. It's not coming back. I originally wrote this
- [401(k) Basics — How Your Plan Works, 2026 Limits, and Getting Every Dollar of the Match](https://savingtoinvest.com/401k-basics/) - The 401(k) is the workhorse of American retirement saving — and for 2026, you can contribute up to $24,500 of your own pay, more if you're 50 or older. Yet the number that matters most for most people isn't the maximum. It's whatever percentage unlocks your full employer match, because that match is the only
- [Can Student Loans Take Your Tax Refund? The 2026 Offset Rules After the Collections Pause](https://savingtoinvest.com/can-my-delinquent-student-loan-debt-be-offset-against-my-irs-tax-refund/) - Short answer for 2026: yes, defaulted federal student loans can be collected from your tax refund through the Treasury Offset Program (TOP) — but right now, most involuntary collections are paused again, and the window before they restart is exactly when you should act. This has whipsawed a lot in the past year, so here's
- [How to Choose a Financial Advisor in 2026 — Fees, Fiduciaries, and the AI Factor](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-to-choose-the-right-financial-advisor/) - Most people still spend more time planning a vacation than choosing the person who'll steer their life savings. And the stakes compound: a 1% difference in all-in costs on a $500,000 portfolio is $5,000 a year, every year, growing with the account. The good news is that vetting an advisor comes down to a handful
- [Refund Approved But Lower Than Expected? Code 846, Offsets, and Where the Missing Money Went](https://savingtoinvest.com/your-tax-refund-has-been-approved-for-direct-deposit-and-transcript-shows-846-with-payment-date-but-why-was-my-refund-adjusted/) - Your refund finally hits "Refund Sent" on WMR or IRS2Go, code 846 shows up on your transcript with a payment date — and then the deposit lands smaller than the refund you filed for. No warning, no explanation on the payment itself. This surprises thousands of filers every season. Here's what almost always happened, and
- [Pension Payout Choice in 2026 — Monthly Annuity or Lump Sum Rollover to an IRA?](https://savingtoinvest.com/should-i-take-my-pension-payout-as-an-annuity-or-lump-sum-rollover-into-an-ira/) - If you're lucky enough to have a traditional pension — and fewer than one in five private-sector workers are these days — you'll eventually face one of the bigger money decisions of your life: take it as a monthly annuity for as long as you live, or take a lump sum and roll it into
- [Banks vs Credit Unions in 2026 — Where Your Money Actually Works Harder](https://savingtoinvest.com/battle-of-the-banks-local-versus-national-and-then-the-credit-unions/) - Here's the number that should frame this whole decision in 2026: the national average savings account pays around 0.6% APY, while top online high-yield savings accounts pay 4% or more. Where you park your money now matters more than it has in most of the past two decades. The old "big bank vs local bank
- [Where's My Amended Tax Return? Checking Your 1040-X Status and Refund Timeline for 2026-2027](https://savingtoinvest.com/wheres-my-amended-tax-return-and-when-will-i-get-my-refund/) - While the IRS aims to process regular season tax returns and refunds within 21 days for the vast majority of filers, amended returns take quite a bit longer. The IRS's own current guidance is to allow 8 to 16 weeks for a Form 1040-X to process. In practice, it's often longer: the National Taxpayer Advocate's
- [Should I Refinance My Mortgage in 2026? Rates, Requirements, and the Breakeven Math](https://savingtoinvest.com/should-i-refinance-my-mortgage-and-do-i-qualify/) - The average 30-year mortgage refinance rate is sitting around 6.8% as of early July 2026, per Freddie Mac's Primary Mortgage Market Survey. That's not the "lowest since the 1950s" environment this page used to describe — those sub-4% rates are long gone, and most homeowners today are locked into a rate well below what's currently
- [Tax Refund Advance Loans in 2026-2027: How Much You Can Get and Why Your Refund May Be Lower Than Expected](https://savingtoinvest.com/are-advance-refund-payments-worth-it-and-how-much-you-can-get/) - Tax Refund Cash Advance Loans in 2025: How Much Can I Get and Why Your Refund May Be Lower Than Expected
- [How Your FICO Credit Score Actually Works in 2026 (and How to Raise It)](https://savingtoinvest.com/breaking-down-and-improving-your-fico/) - The average FICO Score in the US just dipped to 714, the second straight year it's fallen. At the same time, a record 48.1% of Americans now carry a score of 750 or higher. Credit is splitting into haves and have-nots, and where you land affects almost every rate you're quoted, from a mortgage to
- [2026 Housing Affordability Bill: What the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act Means — And Why It's Stuck on Trump's Desk](https://savingtoinvest.com/2026-housing-affordability-bill-what-the-21st-century-road-to-housing-act-means/) - Congress passed the most significant housing legislation in decades, and it still isn't law. The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act cleared the Senate 85-5 and the House 358-32 in late June 2026 — a bipartisan landslide by today's standards — but President Trump canceled the signing ceremony and is holding it up over a
- [FHA vs. Conventional Loans in 2026: Down Payments, Mortgage Insurance, and Which Costs Less](https://savingtoinvest.com/fha-vs-conventional-home-loan-comparing/) - The 2026 FHA loan limit just rose to $541,287 in most of the country, and conventional conforming loans now top out at $832,750. Beyond those limits, the core FHA-versus-conventional decision hasn't changed: it comes down to your down payment, your credit score, and how mortgage insurance is structured on each. Here's an updated, side-by-side look
- [Can My Congressman Help With a Delayed Tax Refund or Missing Government Payment? How Casework Works in 2026](https://savingtoinvest.com/can-i-call-my-congressman-or-representative-for-help-with-my-tax-refund-or-other-missing-and-delayed-payments/) - Yes — and with IRS phone lines answering only about 21% of calls last filing season, this old-school escalation path is getting a workout. Every congressional office runs casework: staff whose entire job is prying constituent problems loose from federal agencies, including the IRS, Social Security Administration, VA, and state unemployment agencies (via your state
- [Will Calling the IRS Get My Refund Faster? What Actually Works in 2026](https://savingtoinvest.com/will-calling-the-irs-help-getting-my-tax-refund-faster/) - The IRS's official line is that calling won't expedite your refund — call center representatives see essentially the same status information as the Where's My Refund (WMR) tool. That's true as far as it goes. But I've always begged to differ on the blanket version of this advice, and I still do. A call can't
- [IRS Notices CP11, CP12, CP13 and CP14 — Refund Adjustments, Balance-Due Letters, and Your 60-Day Rights in 2026](https://savingtoinvest.com/irs-tax-notices-for-adjustments-due-to-tax-liability-or-refund-calculation-errors-cp11-cp12-cp13-and-cp14/) - If the IRS finds a calculation error on your return, it doesn't audit you — it fixes the math itself and mails you a notice in the CP11–CP14 series telling you what changed. Depending on which one you get, your refund went up, went down, disappeared, or turned into a bill. These "math error" notices
- [CP05 and 4464C Letters in 2026 — Why the IRS Is Holding Your Refund and How Long the Review Really Takes](https://savingtoinvest.com/what-is-a-cp05-tax-notice-and-should-i-worry-when-i-get-this-letter-from-the-irs-around-my-tax-return-and-refund-payment/) - You check the mail expecting your refund status to improve, and instead find an IRS envelope with "CP05" printed across the top. Deep breath: a CP05 is one of the more benign letters the IRS sends. It means your refund is being held while the agency verifies your return — and in most cases, you
- [When Will I Get My Tax Refund? 2026 Processing Times and What's Ahead for 2027](https://savingtoinvest.com/when-will-i-get-my-tax-refund/) - The short answer for 2026: if you e-file with direct deposit and nothing flags your return, the IRS issues most refunds in under 21 days — and over 80% of refunds this season went out inside that window. Paper filers and paper-check refunds wait considerably longer, typically 6 to 8 weeks. One more piece of
- [“We Received Your Return and Sent You a Letter Requesting More Information” — What This WMR Message Means in 2026](https://savingtoinvest.com/we-received-your-return-and-sent-you-a-letter-requesting-more-information-what-this-means-for-your-refund-processing/) - Plenty of filers checking Where's My Refund (WMR) or IRS2Go this season have hit the same status: the IRS received your return, but a letter requesting more information is on its way to you. Your refund is on pause — but this message is a to-do item, not a disaster. Here's what triggers it, what
- [Return Accepted But No Refund? IRS Identity Verification (5071C) Is the Likely Reason in 2026](https://savingtoinvest.com/i-filed-my-tax-return-it-was-accepted-yet-i-still-havent-seen-any-sign-of-my-refund-irs-identity-review-and-validation-the-likely-reason/) - You filed on time, got the "return accepted" confirmation, and settled in for the standard three-week wait. It's now been well past 21 days, Where's My Refund (WMR) hasn't budged, and you're wondering where your money is. In 2026, the single most common reason for this exact pattern is an identity verification hold. The IRS
- [Never Received the IRS Letter Holding Up Your Refund? What to Do in 2026](https://savingtoinvest.com/what-happens-if-never-received-irs-letter/) - Every filing season I hear from readers who call the IRS after weeks of waiting, only to learn their refund has been frozen because they never responded to a letter — a letter they never actually received. The IRS considers the clock started the day the notice was mailed, whether or not it reached your
- [Amending Your Tax Return in 2026 — Form 1040-X Rules, Deadlines, and the Real Refund Timeline](https://savingtoinvest.com/amended-tax-return-refund-schedule-rules-form-1040x-and-deadlines/) - Found a missed credit, a wrong filing status, or a 1099 that arrived after you filed? Form 1040-X lets you fix it — and if the fix is in your favor, claim the extra refund. But amending isn't always the right move, and the processing wait is measured in months, so it's worth knowing the
- [Rebuilding a Poor Credit Score With a Credit Union Loan — and What Else Works in 2026](https://savingtoinvest.com/rebuild-a-poor-credit-score-using-a-credit-union/) - A credit-builder loan doesn't hand you cash upfront. You make fixed monthly payments — usually $25 to $150 — into a locked savings account, the lender reports every payment to the credit bureaus, and you get the money back (minus interest) once the term ends. It's a strange-sounding product, but it's one of the more
- [529 vs. Retirement: Why I Still Prioritize My 401(k) Over My Kid's College Fund](https://savingtoinvest.com/saving-for-the-future-college-tuition-vs-retirement/) - The typical American thinks they need $1.46 million to retire comfortably — up $200,000 from just last year's estimate. Meanwhile, the average Gen X 401(k) balance sits at $222,100, and roughly 28% of Americans have nothing saved for retirement at all. Against that backdrop, I still tell parents the same thing I told them years
- [How to Pay for College in 2026: Financial Aid, Scholarships, and Alternatives to a 529](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-to-pay-for-college-funds-savings-and-alternatives/) - A 529 plan is the best-known college savings tool, but it's rarely the whole answer. Between financial aid, scholarships, work-study, and a few savings vehicles most people overlook, there's usually more room to close the gap than families assume. I've written separately about choosing a 529 plan in detail, so this post focuses on everything
- [529 Plan Rules for 2026: Contribution Limits, State Tax Deductions, and the New Roth IRA Rollover](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-to-choose-a-529-plan-and-pay-now-for-future-college-costs-contribution-limits-fees-and-tax-rules/) - Anyone can put up to $19,000 a year into a 529 plan for a single child without touching the federal gift tax exclusion — $38,000 for a married couple. Want to front-load it? You can "superfund" up to $95,000 in one year ($190,000 joint) by treating it as five years of gifts at once. A
- [Best Time of Year to Buy a Car: End-of-Year Deals and Other Windows Dealers Don't Advertise](https://savingtoinvest.com/end-of-year-car-deals-how-to-save-when-auto-shopping-dealers-beware/) - Year-end is the best-known window for car deals, but it's not the only one. Dealerships have several points in their sales cycle where they're motivated to discount — knowing all of them, not just December, gives you more shots at a good price. Year-End: Still the Strongest Window The dealerships turn in their "numbers" at
- [10 Car Buying Tips to Getting a Great Deal](https://savingtoinvest.com/ten-car-buying-tips-to-getting-best/) - After driving the same family car for the last 7 years, my wife and I decided it was time to get a new car that provided better fuel efficiency and some of the nice to have modern features. Not having bought a car for quite some time meant that I had to extensively research the
- [Buying a Used Car in 2026: What It Actually Costs and How to Get a Good Deal](https://savingtoinvest.com/buying-a-used-car-unnecessary-hassle-or-financially-savvy/) - The average used car sold for around $25,600 in mid-2026, according to used-vehicle price trackers. Some methodologies that weight more toward newer used inventory, like JD Power's, put it closer to $30,166. Either way, that's roughly half of what a new car costs today. Kelley Blue Book had the average new car transaction price at
- [Car Repairs – 5 Tips to Avoid Getting Ripped Off When Servicing](https://savingtoinvest.com/car-repairs-5-tips-to-avoid-getting/) - A recent encounter during a routine car service reinforced my cynicism when it comes to mechanics and the auto repair industry in general. I had forgotten about the challenges of dealing with mechanics and the auto center sales staff, thanks to driving a company car which was covered under a corporate service agreement where all
- [College and University Tuition Rates in 2026-2027: What They Actually Cost After Financial Aid](https://savingtoinvest.com/college-and-university-tuition-rates-increase/) - Published tuition at public four-year, in-state schools hit $11,950 for the 2025-26 school year, up 2.9% from the year before. Private nonprofit four-year tuition climbed to $45,000, up 4.0% before adjusting for inflation. For 2026-27, College Board projections put the next increase at around 2.3% for public four-year schools — a smaller jump than in
- [COVID-Era IRS Refund Deadline Is Here — How to File Form 843 Before It's Too Late](https://savingtoinvest.com/covid-era-irs-penalty-refund-claim-form-843/) - July 10, 2026 is the date to circle if you filed or paid taxes anytime between 2020 and 2023. That's the deadline the National Taxpayer Advocate is flagging for tens of millions of taxpayers who may be owed refunds — or abatements — of penalties and interest the IRS assessed during the COVID-19 disaster period.
- [2026-2027 Kids and Education Tax Credits Parents Can Claim - AOTC, Lifetime Learning, and the New Scholarship Tax Credit](https://savingtoinvest.com/tax-breaks-parents-lose-when-children-grow-up-so-take-advantage-of-them-now/) - Raising a child in today's world is not cheap. Estimates for raising a child from birth through college in a middle-class household commonly range from $200,000 to $400,000, and those costs keep climbing as education, health care, and everyday living expenses rise. The federal government offsets some of that cost through a handful of tax
- [2026-2027 401(k), 403(b), and TSP Contribution Limits — Employee, Employer, and Catch-Up Amounts](https://savingtoinvest.com/taking-advantage-of-new-401k/) - Discover the latest updates to 401(k), 403(b), 457, and TSP contribution and catch-up limits.
- [2026-2027 Traditional IRA vs. Roth IRA — Contribution Limits and Phase-Out Income Ranges](https://savingtoinvest.com/traditional-ira-versus-roth-ira-contribution-and-phase-out-income-limits/) - For 2026, the IRA contribution limit is $7,500 — the first increase from the $7,000 limit that held for 2024 and 2025. Whether you're putting money into a traditional IRA or a Roth IRA, that's your combined ceiling across all IRA accounts. The IRS announced this increase in IR-2025-111, along with updated income phase-out ranges.
- [2026 Social Security COLA Confirmed at 2.8%, Plus the Latest 2027 Estimate](https://savingtoinvest.com/social-security-tax-and-cost-of-living-adjustment-cola/) - 2023 Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) Could Be Significantly Higher than 2022 Increase Leading to Record Social Security and SSI Benefits Raise (updated)
- [2026 Federal GS Pay Raise Confirmed at 1%, Plus the Fight Over 2027 Federal Pay](https://savingtoinvest.com/federal-employee-gs-pay-chart-and-raise/) - The General Schedule (GS) pay scale sets base pay for roughly 1.5 million civilian federal employees. This page tracks confirmed raises and the latest proposals for each year. The 2026 raise is confirmed at 1%. The 2027 picture is wide open — Trump's budget proposes a freeze, Congress has offered a 4.1% counter, and the
- [Getting Your Free IRS Tax Transcript for Income Verification, Return and Refund Processing Status](https://savingtoinvest.com/getting-a-free-copy-of-your-irs-tax-return-information-form-4506t-irs-tax-transcript/) - When closing on my home a while back, I had to request a copy of my tax return. I assumed this would be a hassle since the requesting party wanted an official transcript, not just a copy from my tax software. It turned out to be a simple, free process through my IRS online account,
- [What to Expect This Tax Season — Answers to the 7 Questions I Get Asked Most](https://savingtoinvest.com/answers-to-the-top-7-most-searched-for-tax-questions/) - Every year I get the same handful of questions from readers gearing up for the next filing season: when can I file, how do I file for free, how much will I get back, and why does the IRS take so long to pay it. This year's answers lean forward — toward the 2026-2027 season,
- [When Can I File My Taxes in 2027? Key IRS Tax Dates, Deadlines, and Refund Payment Timelines](https://savingtoinvest.com/when-can-i-file-my-taxes-and-other-key-tax-filing-extension-and-refund-dates/) - The 2026 tax season is officially in the books — the IRS began accepting 2025 returns on January 26, 2026, and the April 15 filing deadline has passed. If you filed on time (or on extension), you're done until next year. We now look ahead to the 2027 tax season for 2026 income returns, with
- [IRS Audit Triggers and Red Flags in 2026 — Why Returns Get Pulled and How to Avoid It](https://savingtoinvest.com/irs-audit-triggers-and-red-flags-for/) - Most taxpayers, myself included, share the same dread of getting audited. In reality, the odds aren't that high for most filers, and recent IRS staffing cuts have pushed them even lower — though not evenly across income levels. The IRS audits well under 0.5% of the more than 150 million returns filed each year. That
- [Got an IRS Notice? Here's the Actual Timeline for Responding and Getting Paid](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-long-do-i-have-to-wait-after-an-irs-notice-to-get-my-tax-refund/) - A lot of filers feel a sense of dread the moment they get an IRS notice or letter asking for more information, action, or warning of a possible audit. The real question underneath that dread is almost always about timing: how long will this delay my refund, and how long do I actually have to
- [Should I Be Worried About an IRS Notice or Letter? How to Tell If It's Real in 2026](https://savingtoinvest.com/should-i-be-worried-if-i-get-an-irs-notice-or-letter-will-it-affect-my-tax-return-processing-or-refund-payment/) - A notice or letter from the IRS can sound intimidating, but there are many reasons you might get one. Not every notice is bad news, and that's a common misconception — one that makes opening the envelope more stressful than it needs to be. IRS notices and letters tell you that something changed on your
- [Using AI to Analyze Your IRS Tax Transcript for 2026 Refund Payment Dates](https://savingtoinvest.com/using-ai-to-analyze-your-tax-transcript-for-refund-payment-dates/) - At this time of year, plenty of people are waiting on their tax refunds and regularly checking their IRS tax transcripts for clues on their refund amount and payment date. In the past, that meant scouring forums and blog posts to decipher what various tax codes, payment dates, and cycle codes meant on your free
- [IRS Tax Transcript Code 826 Credit Transferred Out - IRS Debt Offset and Smaller Refund](https://savingtoinvest.com/irs-tax-transcript-code-826-credit-transferred-out-irs-debt-offset-and-what-it-means-for-your-return-and-refund-processing/) - Transaction codes are used on IRS tax transcripts to show filers what has happened with their return processing, reasons for potential delays, when a refund will be paid, or why it's delayed. Given ongoing challenges getting through to a live IRS agent, many taxpayers turn to their free IRS transcript to see exactly what's happening
- [Don't Panic - Understand IRS Reference Code 1242 and Get Your Refund on Track](https://savingtoinvest.com/does-irs-reference-code-1242-mean-i-am-getting-audited-will-my-refund-be-delayed/) - After submitting your tax return, you may see a message referencing code 1242 and Tax Topic 151 when you check your IRS refund status. Naturally, this can cause stress and worry about what happens next. Here's what it means, next steps, and the expected timeline. Get the latest money, tax and stimulus news directly in
- [IRS Tax Transcript Code 841 - Refund Cancelled Due to Direct Deposit Rejection, Paper Check on The Way](https://savingtoinvest.com/irs-tax-transcript-code-841-refund-cancelled-due-to-direct-deposit-rejection-paper-check-on-the-way/) - The transcript excerpt below shows how the IRS handles refunds that are issued but cancelled, or unable to be paid, due to incorrect bank account details. I'll walk through the key codes and dates involved. Seeing transaction code 841 (refund cancelled) on your tax transcript can be alarming, especially if you've been waiting for your
- [IRS Tax Transcript Code 810 Refund Freeze and What It Means When Followed By Code 811](https://savingtoinvest.com/irs-tax-transcript-code-810-refund-freeze-and-what-it-means/) - Transaction codes are used on IRS tax transcripts to show filers what has happened with their return processing, reasons for potential delays, when a refund will be paid, or why it's delayed. Given ongoing challenges in getting through to a live IRS agent, many taxpayers are turning to their free IRS transcript to see exactly
- [What Code 846 Refund Issued on Your IRS Tax Transcript Means For Your Direct Deposit Date](https://savingtoinvest.com/code-846-refund-issued-on-your-irs-tax-transcript-what-it-means-for-your-direct-deposit-or-paper-check-refund-payment/) - Transaction codes are used on IRS tax transcripts and WMR/IRS2Go to show current and historical information on your return processing, reasons for delays, when a refund will be paid, or why it was lower than expected. There are dozens of codes, but Code 846, Refund Issued, is the one you generally WANT to see on
- [IRS Transcript Codes 420 and 424 with Notice CP75 - Examination Request, Audit, or Tax Refund Delay](https://savingtoinvest.com/tax-codes-420-and-424-on-my-irs-transcript-with-notice-cp75-is-my-return-under-audit-and-will-it-delay-my-refund-payment/) - Tax codes, topics, and notices are used across the IRS to explain what's happening with a filer's return, why processing is delayed or under further review, when a refund will be paid, or why it was lower than expected. There are dozens of tax codes and notices — many are purely informational, while others require
- [IRS Tax Topic 152 vs. 151 - What These Codes Mean for Your Refund Status and Payment Delays](https://savingtoinvest.com/what-does-irs-tax-topic-code-152-mean-for-my-refund-payment/) - The IRS processes tax returns based on a standard set of guidelines and instructions, codified into tax codes used across its internal systems to process returns, manage discrepancies, and eventually pay refunds. These codes are simplified into tax topics for filers, providing insight into what's happening with a return, why there are processing delays, when
- [What Does IRS Code 806 Mean On My Tax Transcript](https://savingtoinvest.com/what-does-irs-code-806-mean-on-my-tax-transcript/) - Tax season can be a confusing time, filled with cryptic codes and unfamiliar numbers when it comes to checking your refund status. If you've been scrutinizing your IRS tax transcript (free via your IRS online account) and stumbled upon "Code 806," you're not alone. This seemingly innocuous code holds real meaning for your taxes, and
- [IRS Codes 570 and 971 - Tax Refund Delayed or Reduced in 2026-2027](https://savingtoinvest.com/what-is-tax-code-tc-570-on-my-irs-transcript-and-will-it-delay-my-refund-account-freeze-or-additional-account-actions-pending/) - Transaction codes and tax topics are used across IRS refund status applications — WMR or IRS2Go — and account transcripts, to show filers what's happening with their tax return, why it's delayed, when a refund will be paid, or why it was lower than expected. You'll generally see Transaction Code 570 (TC 570) on your
- [Understanding Tax Topic 203 and Code 898 - Refund Reduced For Past Due Debt Obligations](https://savingtoinvest.com/irs-refund-adjustments-and-treasury-bfs-offsets-tax-topic-codes-203-598-or-898/) - Many tax filers feel a rush of relief when they see the refund approved and sent status on WMR/IRS2Go, or code 846 (refund issued) on their tax transcript. That relief can turn into frustration when an additional status message about a past-due obligation shows their estimated refund on the transcript — or the actual deposit
- [Meaning of IRS Codes on WMR Or Tax Transcript For Your Refund Processing and Payment Status](https://savingtoinvest.com/irs-tax-topic-error-codes-on-where-is-my-refund-wmr-and-irs2go/) - IRS Tax Transcript Codes - 150, 151, 152, 203, 420, 421, 570, 806, 810, 846, 898, 971, 1121, 1161, 9021
- [Checking Your IRS Tax Refund Status on WMR or IRS2Go For Direct Deposit Payment Date](https://savingtoinvest.com/wmr-and-irs2go-status-differences-return-received-accepted-or-under-review-and-refund-approved-versus-refund-sent/) - With tax season underway, lots of taxpayers want an update on their refund processing status on the IRS' Where's My Refund (WMR) website or the IRS2Go mobile app. These tools give you three key pieces of information: confirmation the IRS received your return, approval of your refund, and the date it was issued. Despite IRS
- [2026–2027 Updates: "Your Tax Return Is Still Being Processed" — What It Means and What to Do](https://savingtoinvest.com/latest-update-on-your-irs-tax-refund-processing-and-payment-status-how-returns-with-errors-are-handled/) - Millions of people file their taxes and then wait — sometimes far longer than the IRS’s advertised 21-day guideline. The 2026 filing season made that worse. DOGE-driven staffing cuts removed roughly 7,000 IRS employees in February 2026, right in the middle of peak processing weeks. The National Taxpayer Advocate’s mid-year report to Congress confirmed that
- [Why You May owe taxes This Year or Get A Much Smaller IRS Tax Refund](https://savingtoinvest.com/2012-tax-refunds-smaller-than-2011-payments/) - Over the last few years, thanks to plenty of pandemic related support via stimulus payments and funding for expanded tax credits, the average refund payment ballooned to over $3,100. This is despite 20 million fewer Americans getting refunds. However with no further federal funding approved, several popular stimulus, family and dependent tax credits that were created or
- [how long does it take to get your Delayed tax refund direct deposit?](https://savingtoinvest.com/2022-refund-payments-and-processing-for-2021-tax-returns-likely-to-face-long-delays/) - Many tax filers are now seeing messages on their IRS2Go and WMR app that confirm their tax returns are going to take longer than normal to process. Tax Topic 152, which just alludes to ongoing and potential processing delays, has not provided much help. So some are turning to their tax transcript and IRS cycle
- [Decoding The IRS Tax Transcript For Your Refund Payment Status](https://savingtoinvest.com/using-your-irs-transcript-to-get-your-tax-return-and-refund-processing-status-and-key-dates/) - One of the most underrated tax documents is your IRS tax transcript. Especially when you are anxiously awaiting the status of your tax refund and the official WMR/IRS2Go refund status tools are not telling you much. But reading your IRS transcript can be a bit tricky with all the codes and dates hard to follow.
- [Why Is It Taking So Long to Get My Tax Refund? 2026 IRS Delay Reasons and Data](https://savingtoinvest.com/why-is-it-taking-so-long-to-get-my-tax-refund/) - The IRS says 9 out of 10 refunds go out within 21 days of an accepted e-filed return. But per the National Taxpayer Advocate's mid-year report to Congress (released June 24, 2026), more than 14 million returns were suspended for further review this filing season, and over 1 million taxpayers waited an average of 5.5
- [Are You Owed a Tax Refund Interest Payment? 2026 IRS Rate and Rules](https://savingtoinvest.com/millions-set-to-receive-irs-tax-refund-interest-payments/) - You've probably heard the old line that getting a tax refund just means you gave the IRS an interest-free loan for the year. There's a wrinkle to that, though: if your refund is delayed, the IRS actually owes you interest. By law, the IRS must pay interest on a refund it hasn't issued within 45
- [Can a Taxpayer Advocate Help Get My Delayed Refund Released? 2026 Update](https://savingtoinvest.com/contact-a-tax-advocate-to-help-get-your-refund-released-from-the-irs/) - The Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) is an independent organization within the IRS that helps filers with tax problems they can't resolve through normal channels, or who've exhausted standard IRS contact options without a real answer. Every state has at least one local TAS office, independent of the regular IRS office. They're especially useful for filers
- [No Tax Refund or Status After 21 days? Tips On Contacting the IRS For Payment and Processing Updates](https://savingtoinvest.com/no-tax-refund-after-21-days-tips-on-contacting-the-irs/) - As the IRS notes, 9 out of 10 filers get their refund within 21 days of an accepted e-filed return. But that also means roughly 1 in 10 filers — over 15 million people in a typical season — wait longer than that. If you're past 21 days (or 6 weeks for a paper return)
- [2026–2027 Year-End Tax Planning: 15 Moves to Make Before December 31](https://savingtoinvest.com/15-year-end-tax-deductions-to-remember-unless-you-want-to-give-the-irs-a-tax-free-loan/) - As the year winds down, a few hours reviewing your tax situation can save you real money. Not every move here will apply to you — some are for itemizers, some are for retirees, some are specific to your income level. But there's almost always something worth acting on before December 31. One upfront note:
- [2026–2027 Updates: Eight Things NOT to Do With Your 401(k) and IRA](https://savingtoinvest.com/what-not-to-do-with-your-401k-and-ira/) - Everyone who has a 401(k) or IRA has read the standard playbook: invest regularly, diversify, keep costs low. Good advice, all of it. But knowing what not to do is just as important — and some of the most expensive mistakes are the ones that feel reasonable in the moment. Here are eight of the
- [Am I Being a Cheapskate or Just Frugal?](https://savingtoinvest.com/am-i-cheapskate-or-just-frugal/) - In an argument with my wife over our holiday spending on gifts, travel and entertainment, I got accused of being a cheapskate because I refused to put aside money/budget worries during the holiday season. “What’s the point of saving if we cannot spend the money on the ones we love?” she said, but the worst
- [2026–2027 Updates: Key Retirement Ages for 401(k), IRA, and Social Security — Milestones That Determine Your Benefits](https://savingtoinvest.com/retirement-ages-and-eligilbility-rules-for-receiving-401k-ira-and-social-security-beneifts/) - Knowing the exact age at which something happens to your retirement accounts is more valuable than most general planning advice. Miss an RMD at 73 and you're looking at a 25% penalty. Claim Social Security two years too early and that reduction follows you for life. Here's a clear map of every age milestone that
- [2026–2027 Updates: Can You Collect Unemployment While Working Part-Time? Partial UI Rules by State](https://savingtoinvest.com/can-i-get-unemployment-working-part-time-partial-weekly-unemployment-benefit-rules-by-state/) - Working part-time while on unemployment isn't just allowed — it's something most states actively want you to do. The alternative, where every shift you pick up wipes out your entire benefit, discourages work and makes a job search harder. States recognized that problem decades ago. In 2026, the rules work the same way they always
- [2026–2027 Updates: Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Kiddie Tax — Thresholds, Eligibility, and OBBBA Changes](https://savingtoinvest.com/child-and-kiddie-tax-credit-and-income-thresholds/) - The Child Tax Credit (CTC) is $2,200 per qualifying child for the 2026 tax year, following the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) signed in 2025. That $200 increase from the prior $2,000 level is now locked in permanently and indexed for inflation going forward. For most families, not much has changed dollar-for-dollar from 2025 to
- [Choices for Your 401(k) When You Leave or Change Jobs: Cash Out, Roll Over, or Let Auto-Portability Handle It](https://savingtoinvest.com/choices-for-your-401k-retirement-plan-when-you-leave-or-change-your-job-including-an-ira-rollover/) - Changing jobs used to mean your old 401(k) sat wherever you left it until you got around to dealing with it — or, if the balance was small enough, your former employer quietly cashed it out and mailed you a check minus withholding. That default is changing. Under SECURE 2.0, small-balance accounts can now follow
- [SECURE 2.0 Act Updates for 2026 and 2027: Roth Catch-Up Rules, the New Saver's Match, and Mandatory Auto-Enrollment](https://savingtoinvest.com/navigating-the-new-rules-how-the-secure-2-0-act-impacts-your-retirement-catch-up-contributions/) - SECURE 2.0 has been rolling out in phases since it passed in 2022, and 2026 is the year several of its biggest provisions stopped being "coming soon" and started being real. The Roth catch-up mandate for high earners is now in effect. Mandatory auto-enrollment applies to newly created plans. And in 2027, the government starts
- [2026–2027 HSA Contribution Limits, HDHP Deductibles, and How to Make the Most of Your Health Savings Account](https://savingtoinvest.com/hsa-limits-and-tax-rules-how-to-best-utilize-health-savings-accounts/) - If I had to pick one tax-advantaged account most people are underusing, it would be the HSA — and it's not particularly close. I've been contributing to one for years, and the more I've learned about how these accounts work, the more I think of them as a stealth retirement account. Most people treat an
- [2026 Medical Expense Deduction: The 7.5% AGI Floor and What You Can Actually Write Off](https://savingtoinvest.com/2016-2017-medical-expense-deduction-income-agi-limit/) - I get asked about this deduction every tax season, usually from someone who just had a rough year medically and wants to know if any of it comes back at tax time. The honest answer: sometimes, but the bar is higher than most people assume. The rule itself is simple. You can deduct medical and
- [Help! My Car Was Illegally Towed - How Do I Get My Towing Charge Back](https://savingtoinvest.com/help-my-car-was-illegally-towed-how-do-i-get-my-150-towing-charge-back/) - I recently visited some friends for dinner at their new apartment in a large 300 unit complex. After dinner, when I got back to where I had parked I saw the parking space was empty. After a feeling of utter dread and panic, I frantically searched around thinking that perhaps I was mistaken about where
- [2026–2027 Updates: Best Online Tax Filing Software and Free Filing Options](https://savingtoinvest.com/the-best-tax-software-and-free-filing-options-as-tax-filing-goes-primarily-online/) - The IRS Free File AGI limit for 2026 is $89,000 — the highest it's ever been. If your adjusted gross income lands at or below that number, free guided filing is available through 8 partner software companies. Above it, you're paying. Here's what's worth using this year and what's changed. What's New for 2026 Two
- [2026-2027 IRS Tax Refund Schedule And Direct Deposit Payment Calendar](https://savingtoinvest.com/irs-refund-schedule-and-direct-deposit-cycle-chart-for-tax-return-filings/) - 2026-2027 IRS tax refund schedule with direct deposit dates by filing week, PATH Act and EITC hold dates, cycle codes explained, and how to get refund status.
- [How to Actually Speak to a Real Person at the IRS — Phone Numbers, Chat, and Tips That Work](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-can-i-actually-speak-to-a-real-person-or-agent-at-the-irs-phone-numbers-that-work/) - Getting through to a live IRS agent has always been a battle, and 2026 hasn't made it easier. Ongoing staffing cuts — accelerated by DOGE-related reductions earlier in the year — have continued to shrink the IRS workforce. At the same time, the IRS is actively pushing taxpayers toward digital and AI-assisted tools before they
- [2026–2027 One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA): What Every Tax Filer Needs to Know](https://savingtoinvest.com/reconciling-trumps-big-beautiful-bill-bbb/) - If you've filed taxes in the last few years, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) has already shown up on your 2025 return — and will do so for every return through 2028. In this post I will walk you through exactly what changed, what it means for your future refunds, and what to
- [2026–2027 OBBBA Tax Changes: What the One Big Beautiful Bill Means for Business and Energy Credits](https://savingtoinvest.com/tax-changes-what-the-one-big-beautiful-bill-act-means-for-energy-and-business/) - If you run a business — whether it's a solo consulting practice, a restaurant, or a mid-size manufacturer — the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) changes your tax picture significantly. Some changes are genuinely good news for investment planning. Others close doors that were previously open, especially on the clean energy side. Here's what
- [2026–2027 No Tax on Tips: Who Qualifies, Income Limits, and Real Examples](https://savingtoinvest.com/no-tax-on-tips-2026-your-complete-guide-to-saving-thousands-with-real-examples/) - If you're a tipped worker, the question that matters most right now is: how much less will I owe the IRS? For a server earning $22,000 in tips at the 22% bracket, the answer is about $4,840. A bartender with $25,000 in tips in the 24% bracket saves $6,000. These are real numbers from the
- [2026–2027 No Tax on Overtime: Who Qualifies, How to Calculate Your Deduction (With Examples)](https://savingtoinvest.com/no-tax-on-overtime-who-qualifies-how-to-calculate-your-deduction-with-e/) - If you regularly work overtime, there's a number you need to know right now: $12,500. That's the maximum amount of overtime premium pay you can deduct from your federal income tax for 2025 through 2028, thanks to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). For a nurse working regular double shifts at the 22% bracket,
- [2026–2027 Child Tax Credit: OBBBA Raises It to $2,200 Per Child — Full Eligibility Guide](https://savingtoinvest.com/3600-expanded-child-tax-credit-on-top-of-1400-dependent-stimulus-check-for-5k-in-2021-biden-stimulus-package/) - If you have kids under 17, here's the OBBBA update that matters to you: the Child Tax Credit just went up to $2,200 per child, permanently. That's $200 more per child than the 2017 TCJA rate, and the credit will now adjust for inflation annually — meaning it should keep up with rising costs going
- [2026–2027 Auto Loan Interest Tax Deduction: New Cars, Made in America, Up to $10,000](https://savingtoinvest.com/understanding-the-auto-interest-tax-deduction-for-new-cars-between-2025-to-2028/) - When you're staring at a new car loan at 6–8% interest, the monthly payment can sting. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) gives you a way to take some of that sting back: a federal income tax deduction on the interest you pay, up to $10,000 per year, for new American-made vehicles financed on
- [No Tax on Tips 2025–2028: Higher Refunds for Tipped Workers — Complete Guide](https://savingtoinvest.com/higher-refunds-with-no-tax-on-tips-deduction-for-2025-to-2028-how-it-works/) - Looking for the complete guide with all the details, income limits, and real-world examples? We've moved the full content here: No Tax on Tips 2026–2027: Who Qualifies, Income Limits, and Real Examples. For millions of American workers in service industries, tips aren't just a bonus — they're a major part of take-home pay. The One
- [2026–2027 Senior Deduction: The New $6,000 Tax Break for Ages 65+ (Do You Qualify?)](https://savingtoinvest.com/the-6000-senior-deduction-see-if-you-qualify/) - For retirees on a fixed income, every tax break matters. The $6,000 Senior Bonus Deduction added by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) is one of the most straightforward new benefits in the law: if you're 65 or older, you get an extra $6,000 subtracted from your taxable income, period. No special accounts, no
- [2026–2027 Schedule 1-A: The New IRS Form for Tips, Overtime, Auto Loan & Senior Deductions](https://savingtoinvest.com/what-is-the-new-schedule-1-a-form-for-tax-filing/) - Four new tax breaks. One new form. If you received tips, overtime pay, financed a new American-made car, or are 65 or older, Schedule 1-A is your ticket to a lower tax bill for 2025 through 2028. The IRS created Schedule 1-A specifically to handle the new deductions introduced by the One Big Beautiful Bill
- [SNAP Benefits 2026: EBT Amounts, New Work Rules, and All 50 State Guides](https://savingtoinvest.com/no-increase-to-food-stamp-snap-benefit-amount-under-2020-coronavirus-stimulus-measures/) - The maximum SNAP benefit for a family of four in fiscal year 2026 is $994 per month — up from $975 last year. If you’re a single adult, the max is $298/month. But 2026 is a more complicated year for SNAP than most. The One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) made the biggest structural changes to
- [2026–2027 Catch-Up Contribution Limits: 401k, IRA, SIMPLE — Super Catch-Up and Roth Mandate Explained](https://savingtoinvest.com/when-can-i-make-catch-up-contributions-to-401k-ira-403b-and-simple-ira-retirement-plans/) - Two major SECURE 2.0 changes took effect in 2026 that most people haven't fully absorbed yet. If you're between 60 and 63, your 401k catch-up limit jumped to $11,250 — significantly more than the $8,000 available to other workers over 50. And if you earned more than $150,000 last year, your catch-up contributions must now
- [2026 Federal IRS Tax Brackets, Tax Rates, and Standard Deduction — With 2027 Projections](https://savingtoinvest.com/federal-irs-tax-brackets-tax-rates-and-other-tax-updates/) - The 2026 federal income tax brackets are confirmed, and with inflation running around 3.5–4% in early 2026, I'm already watching what 2027 is likely to bring. The IRS typically announces next year's figures in October or November, so this page will get another update then. Short version for 2026: same seven rates (10%–37%), but all
- [2026 Crypto Tax Updates: IRS Form 1099-DA Is Here — What Every Investor Needs to Know](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-bidens-infrastructure-bill⁠-affects-crypto-investors-via-increase-disclosure-for-taxation/) - The IRS's new Form 1099-DA hit mailboxes in early 2026 — the first time crypto investors have received a standardized tax form from their exchanges similar to what stock traders get from their brokers. If you trade on Coinbase, Kraken, Robinhood, Gemini, or any other major centralized platform, you should have received one covering your
- [2025 and 2026 Updates: Capital Gains Tax Rates — Short and Long Term, Tax Loss Harvesting, and NIIT](https://savingtoinvest.com/capital-gains-tax-short-and-long-term-rates-plus-other-factors-to-consider/) - When you sell a capital asset — a stock, bond, cryptocurrency, real estate, or other investment — the profit (or loss) is classified as a capital gain or loss. How much you owe in tax depends on three things: what type of asset it was, how long you held it, and your taxable income. Capital
- [2026 Updates: Maryland (MD) Unemployment Benefits — Up to $430/Week via BEACON](https://savingtoinvest.com/maryland-dui-unemployment-benefits-news-and-updates-on-extended-benefit-programs-300-lwa-pua-peuc-and-600-fpuc-beacon-filing-system/) - Maryland unemployment insurance pays between $50 and $430 per week in 2026, with benefits available for up to 26 weeks. That cap hasn't changed in several years, but a law passed in the 2026 General Assembly session (SB 3) will tie Maryland's maximum benefit to 40% of the state average weekly wage starting in 2027
- [2026 Updates: Is There a 4th Stimulus Check? IRS Payment Status and What's Actually Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/stimulus-checks-economic-impact-payments-to-be-paid-out-from-mid-april-per-irs/) - There is no 4th stimulus check. The three federal Economic Impact Payments issued during 2020 and 2021 are complete — the IRS has finished distributing all payments under those programs, including a final auto-payment push in late 2024 for people who missed the 2021 credit. If you're reading this because you saw something on social
- [2026 Stimulus Check Updates: No New Federal Payment — State Programs and What's Being Proposed](https://savingtoinvest.com/direct-cash-payments-to-americans-as-part-of-2020-coronavirus-stimulus-package/) - No new federal stimulus check has been authorized for 2026. The last round of federal Economic Impact Payments went out in 2021, and a fourth check would require Congress to pass new legislation — which has not happened. That said, there are real payments going out to Americans in 2026, mostly at the state level.
- [2026 Update: H&R Block Online Tax Filing Review — Solid Software at a Lower Price Than TurboTax](https://savingtoinvest.com/hr-block-online-tax-filing-review/) - For tax year 2025 (filed in 2026), H&R Block is the strongest mid-market alternative to TurboTax — meaningfully cheaper across every tier, with a comparable guided interview experience and one thing TurboTax cannot offer: the option to walk into a physical office if you want a human to take over. Here is what has changed
- [2026 Update: TurboTax Review — Great Tax Software With Live Support for a Premium Price](https://savingtoinvest.com/turbotax-review-great-tax-filing-software-with-live-support-for-a-premium-price/) - TurboTax is still the most widely used tax software in the country. For tax year 2025 (filed in 2026), it has made some real changes worth knowing before you pay — or decide to go elsewhere. The product lineup has been simplified, there are new deductions under the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB), and a
- [2026 Updates: Michigan (MI) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/michigan-snap-food-assistance-program-and-2023-pandemic-emergency-allotment-boost-extension-latest-updates-and-news/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Michigan (MI) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Bridge Card (EBT) 3rd–21st. But 2026 is a more complicated year
- [2026-2027 Small Business Retirement Plans — Solo 401(k), SEP IRA, SIMPLE IRA, and ESOP](https://savingtoinvest.com/small-business-retirement-plans-401k-sep-ira-simple-ira-and-esop-plans/) - If you're self-employed or running a small business, the retirement account options available to you are frankly better than what most corporate employees get — and most people don't fully take advantage of them. I hear from a lot of small business owners who are using a regular Roth or Traditional IRA when they could
- [2026-2027 SEP IRA and Solo 401(k) Contribution Limits, Rules, and Comparison](https://savingtoinvest.com/sep-ira-rules-and-contribution-limits/) - If you're self-employed and not taking full advantage of a SEP IRA or Solo 401(k), you're likely leaving a significant amount of tax-deferred savings on the table every year. I've talked to a lot of freelancers and small business owners over the years who are diligently contributing to a regular IRA — $7,500 a year,
- [2026-2027 FSA Contribution Limits — Health Care and Dependent Care (Major Increase to DCFSA)](https://savingtoinvest.com/flexible-and-dependent-care-spending-accounts-fsa-contribution-limits/) - 2011 Flexible Spending Accounts Changes and Limits For Employees from Lower Limits and no OTC drugs
- [2026-2027 Saver's Tax Credit Income Limits and How to Claim It](https://savingtoinvest.com/savers-tax-credit-and-income-limits-to-help-workers-save-for-retirement/) - The Saver's Credit gives lower- and moderate-income workers a direct tax credit — not just a deduction — for contributing to a retirement account. For 2026, the income limits increased across all filing statuses, so more people now qualify than in prior years. The IRS confirmed these thresholds in Notice IR-2025-111, as part of the
- [2026-2027 SIMPLE IRA Contribution Limits and Rules for Small Business Retirement Plans](https://savingtoinvest.com/simple-ira-contribution-and-income-limits-small-business-retirement-plans/) - The SIMPLE IRA (Savings Incentive Match Plan for Employees) is one of the most practical retirement plan options for small businesses. For 2026, the contribution limit rises to $17,000, and the catch-up provisions got a meaningful boost under SECURE 2.0. These 2026 figures are confirmed in IRS Notice IR-2025-111. 2026 SIMPLE IRA Contribution Limits Contribution
- [2026-2027 Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Income Limits and Qualification Rules](https://savingtoinvest.com/earned-income-tax-credit-eitc-qualification-and-income-threshold-limits/) - The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is the largest refundable federal tax credit for working families and individuals. For tax year 2026 — the income you'll report on the return you file in early 2027 — the maximum credit rises to $8,231 for families with three or more qualifying children. These figures come from IRS
- [2026 Updates: Arizona (AZ) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/arizona-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Arizona (AZ) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Arizona Quest Card 1st–13th. But 2026 is a more complicated year
- [2026 Updates: Arkansas (AR) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/arkansas-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Arkansas (AR) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Arkansas EBT Card 4th–13th. But 2026 is a more complicated year
- [2026 Updates: Georgia (GA) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/georgia-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Georgia (GA) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Georgia EBT Card 5th–23rd. But 2026 is a more complicated year
- [2026 Updates: Illinois (IL) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/illinois-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Illinois (IL) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Illinois Link Card (EBT) 1st–20th. But 2026 is a more complicated
- [2026 Updates: Kansas (KS) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/kansas-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Kansas (KS) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Kansas EBT Card 1st–10th. But 2026 is a more complicated year
- [2026 Updates: Kentucky (KY) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/kentucky-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Kentucky (KY) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Kentucky EBT Card 1st–19th. But 2026 is a more complicated year
- [2026 Updates: Maryland (MD) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/maryland-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Maryland (MD) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Maryland Independence Card (EBT) 4th–23rd. But 2026 is a more complicated
- [2026 Updates: Massachusetts (MA) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/massachusetts-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Massachusetts (MA) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Massachusetts EBT Card 1st–14th. But 2026 is a more complicated year
- [2026 Updates: Minnesota (MN) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/minnesota-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Minnesota (MN) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Minnesota EBT Card 4th–13th. But 2026 is a more complicated year
- [2026 Updates: Nevada (NV) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/nevada-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Nevada (NV) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Nevada EBT Card 1st–10th. But 2026 is a more complicated year
- [2026 Updates: New Jersey (NJ) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/new-jersey-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a New Jersey (NJ) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your NJ Families First Card (EBT) 1st–5th. But 2026 is a
- [2026 Updates: Tennessee (TN) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/tennessee-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Tennessee (TN) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Tennessee EBT Card 1st–20th. But 2026 is a more complicated year
- [2026 Updates: Texas (TX) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/texas-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Texas (TX) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Lone Star Card (EBT) 1st–28th. But 2026 is a more complicated
- [2026 Updates: Virginia (VA) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/virginia-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Virginia (VA) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Virginia EBT Card 1st–7th. But 2026 is a more complicated year
- [2026 Updates: Wisconsin (WI) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/wisconsin-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Wisconsin (WI) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your QUEST Card (EBT) 1st–15th. But 2026 is a more complicated year
- [2026 Updates: Florida (FL) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/florida-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility-u/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Florida (FL) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Florida EBT Card between the 1st and 28th of each month,
- [2026 Updates: Virginia (VA) Unemployment Benefits — Up to $478/Week Starting July 5](https://savingtoinvest.com/virginia-vec-unemployment-benefits-news-and-updates-on-extended-benefit-programs-300-lwa-pua-peuc-and-600-fpuc/) - Virginia's unemployment insurance program — managed by the Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) — is about to get a meaningful boost. For 2026, the current maximum is $430 per week, but that jumps to $478 per week for new claims starting July 5, 2026 thanks to legislation passed earlier this year. The minimum benefit also rises
- [2027 and 2026 Military Pay Charts — Latest Raise Proposals, Basic Pay Tables, and History](https://savingtoinvest.com/military-pay-charts-basic-pay-tables-raise/) - The military pay raise for 2026 was confirmed at 3.8% for all pay grades. For 2027, the White House proposed a tiered raise up to 7%, the House backed it, and the Senate countered with a flat 3.6%. Final figures won't be set until the NDAA conference wraps in late 2026. 2027 Military Pay Raise:
- [2026 Updates: IRS CP53E Notice — Your Refund Is Frozen, Here's What to Do in 30 Days](https://savingtoinvest.com/2026-updates-irs-cp53e-notice-your-refund-is-frozen-heres-what-to-do-in-30-days/) - By early spring 2026, more than 1.4 million taxpayers had received an IRS CP53E notice — a letter that means your approved tax refund is frozen and you need to act. The cause is a new federal policy phasing out paper refund checks, and the window to fix it without losing time is just 30
- [Social Security 2025 COLA: Why It Fell Short for Seniors — and What Came Next](https://savingtoinvest.com/social-security-2025-cola-increases-why-they-fall-short-and-what-lies-ahead-for-2026/) - June 2026 Update: The 2025 COLA analysis below remains relevant as historical context. Since this was published: the 2026 COLA came in at 2.5% — same as 2025, continuing the pattern of modest adjustments this article describes. Looking ahead, the early 2027 COLA estimate has jumped sharply to 4.7%, driven by energy price surges. For
- [2027 Social Security COLA Update: Early Estimates Jump to 4.7% — What Changed](https://savingtoinvest.com/lower-social-security-cola-for-2027-early-predictions-to-watch/) - Update (June 2026): When this article was first published earlier in 2026, predictions pointed toward a modest or lower 2027 Social Security COLA — somewhere between 1.2% and 2.8%. That has changed significantly. Energy prices have surged, and the current leading estimate is now 4.7%. I've updated this page to reflect where things actually stand.
- [2026 Average IRS and State Tax Refund — $3,676 Nationally, All 50 States, and Processing Times](https://savingtoinvest.com/average-irs-and-state-tax-refund-and-processing-times/) - The average federal tax refund as of March 6, 2026 was $3,676 — up 10.6% from $3,324 at the same point in 2025. By early April the average settled to $3,462, still up 11.1% year-over-year. The IRS has paid out $241.7 billion in refunds through early April, compared to $211.1 billion in 2025 — a
- [What Are Perpetual Futures (Perps)? Why They're Booming— and Why They Could Trigger the Next Financial Crisis](https://savingtoinvest.com/what-are-perpetual-futures-perps-why-theyre-exploding-and-why-they-could-trigger/) - Perpetual futures — "perps" in market shorthand — are the fastest-growing trading instrument in global finance right now. They started in crypto, stayed in crypto for years, and are now crossing over into traditional Wall Street territory. The CFTC approved Bitcoin perps from regulated U.S. platforms in 2026. Coinbase has them. Robinhood is offering them
- [I Let Claude Trade My Robinhood Account for Three Weeks. Here's What Happened.](https://savingtoinvest.com/i-let-claude-trade-my-robinhood-agentic-account-heres-what-happened/) - On May 27, 2026, Robinhood quietly became the first major U.S. brokerage to hand the keys to retail accounts over to AI agents. I say "quietly" loosely — it made a lot of noise in tech circles — but among the personal finance crowd, I don't think people fully absorbed what this actually means yet.
- [What Happens if I File My Taxes Late? 2026 IRS Penalties and Getting Your Refund](https://savingtoinvest.com/what-happens-if-i-file-my-taxes-late-irs-penalty-and-getting-your-refund/) - I get a few comments every tax season from readers asking whether it's too late to file a return after the regular deadline (April 15, 2026 for most people) — and what happens if they forgot to file for an extension. I also get asked what happens if they owe taxes, or if they find
- [2026-2027 401(k) Contribution Limits — Employee, Employer, and Catch-Up Amounts](https://savingtoinvest.com/maximum-employee-and-employer-401k-contribution-limits-and-catch-up-amounts/) - The IRS set the 2026 employee 401(k) contribution limit at $24,500 — up $1,000 from $23,500 in 2025. If you're 50 or older, you can add another $8,000 in catch-up contributions for a total of $32,500. And if you're between 60 and 63, a SECURE 2.0 super catch-up provision lets you contribute up to $35,750
- [2026 Roth IRA Contribution and Income Limits — Plus Catch-Up and Conversion Rules](https://savingtoinvest.com/roth-ira-contribution-and-income-limits-plus-conversion-or-rollover-rules/) - The Roth IRA contribution limit for 2026 is $7,500 — up from $7,000 in 2025. If you're 50 or older, you can add a $1,100 catch-up contribution (now indexed for inflation under SECURE 2.0), bringing your total to $8,600. The income phase-out ranges have also shifted up slightly for 2026. Subscribe or follow us to
- [2026 Updates: Wyoming (WY) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/wyoming-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Wyoming (WY) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Wyoming EBT Card 1st–4th. But 2026 is a more complicated year
- [2026 Updates: West Virginia (WV) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/west-virginia-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a West Virginia (WV) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your West Virginia EBT Card 1st–9th. But 2026 is a more
- [2026 Updates: Washington (WA) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/washington-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Washington (WA) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Washington EBT Card 1st–20th. But 2026 is a more complicated year
- [2026 Updates: Vermont (VT) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/vermont-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Vermont (VT) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Vermont EBT Card 1st (all recipients). But 2026 is a more
- [2026 Updates: Utah (UT) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/utah-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Utah (UT) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Utah EBT Card 5th, 11th, or 15th. But 2026 is a
- [2026 Updates: South Dakota (SD) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/south-dakota-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a South Dakota (SD) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your South Dakota EBT Card 10th (all recipients). But 2026 is
- [2026 Updates: South Carolina (SC) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/south-carolina-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a South Carolina (SC) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your South Carolina EBT Card 1st–10th. But 2026 is a more
- [2026 Updates: Rhode Island (RI) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/rhode-island-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Rhode Island (RI) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Rhode Island EBT Card 1st (all recipients). But 2026 is
- [2026 Updates: Oregon (OR) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/oregon-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Oregon (OR) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Oregon Trail Card (EBT) 1st–9th. But 2026 is a more complicated
- [2026 Updates: Oklahoma (OK) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/oklahoma-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Oklahoma (OK) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Access Oklahoma EBT Card 1st–10th. But 2026 is a more complicated
- [2026 Updates: North Dakota (ND) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/north-dakota-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a North Dakota (ND) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your North Dakota EBT Card 1st (all recipients). But 2026 is
- [2026 Updates: New Mexico (NM) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/new-mexico-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a New Mexico (NM) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your New Mexico EBT Fiesta Card 1st–20th. But 2026 is a
- [2026 Updates: New Hampshire (NH) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/new-hampshire-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a New Hampshire (NH) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your New Hampshire EBT Card 5th (all recipients). But 2026 is
- [2026 Updates: Nebraska (NE) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/nebraska-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Nebraska (NE) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Nebraska EBT Card 1st–5th. But 2026 is a more complicated year
- [2026 Updates: Montana (MT) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/montana-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Montana (MT) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Montana Access Card (EBT) 2nd–6th. But 2026 is a more complicated
- [2026 Updates: Missouri (MO) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/missouri-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Missouri (MO) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Missouri EBT Card 1st–22nd. But 2026 is a more complicated year
- [2026 Updates: Mississippi (MS) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/mississippi-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Mississippi (MS) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Mississippi EBT Card 4th–21st. But 2026 is a more complicated year
- [2026 Updates: Maine (ME) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/maine-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Maine (ME) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Maine EBT Card 10th–14th. But 2026 is a more complicated year
- [2026 Updates: Louisiana (LA) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/louisiana-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Louisiana (LA) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Louisiana Purchase Card (EBT) 1st–23rd. But 2026 is a more complicated
- [2026 Updates: Iowa (IA) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/iowa-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Iowa (IA) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Iowa EBT Card 1st–10th. But 2026 is a more complicated year
- [2026 Updates: Indiana (IN) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/indiana-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Indiana (IN) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Indiana Hoosier Works Card (EBT) 5th–23rd. But 2026 is a more
- [2026 Updates: Idaho (ID) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/idaho-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Idaho (ID) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Idaho Quest Card (EBT) 1st–10th. But 2026 is a more complicated
- [2026 Updates: Hawaii (HI) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/hawaii-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Hawaii (HI) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Hawaii EBT Card 3rd–5th. But 2026 is a more complicated year
- [2026 Updates: Delaware (DE) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/delaware-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Delaware (DE) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Delaware Food First Card (EBT) 2nd–23rd. But 2026 is a more
- [2026 Updates: Alaska (AK) SNAP Food Stamp Program — EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/alaska-snap-food-stamp-program-ebt-amounts-deposit-dates-and-eligibility/) - Data last verified: June 2026. Subscribe or follow us to get these and related updates. The maximum SNAP benefit for a Alaska (AK) family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Alaska Quest Card 1st (all recipients). But 2026 is a more
- [Kansas Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $637/Week for 26 Weeks, Partial UI Rules, Taxes, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/kansas-ks-dol-enhanced-unemployment-benefit-programs-fpuc-peuc-and-pua-2021-extension-news-and-updates/) - Kansas' unemployment insurance program — managed by the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) — increased its maximum weekly benefit to $637 in 2026, up from $589 in 2025. Kansas sets its maximum based on the statewide average weekly wage, adjusted annually. Note that Kansas is one of the few remaining states that has not fully
- [Texas Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $605/Week for 26 Weeks, No State Income Tax, Partial UI Rules, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/texas-unemployment-insurance-compensation-uic-and-enhanced-coronavirus-benefits/) - Texas' unemployment insurance program — managed by the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) — increased its maximum weekly benefit to $605 in 2026, up from $563 in 2025. Texas sets its maximum at the greater of $590 or 47% of the statewide average weekly wage, adjusted each October. Texas has no state income tax, so UI
- [Nevada Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $631/Week for 26 Weeks, No State Income Tax, Partial UI Rules, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/nevada-nv-detr-unemployment-benefits-news-and-updates-on-300-lwa-pua-peuc-and-600-fpuc/) - Nevada's unemployment insurance program — managed by the Nevada Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation (DETR) — raised its maximum weekly benefit to $631 in 2026, up from $469 in 2025. This significant $162 increase follows Nevada's statutory formula, which ties the maximum to the prior year's average monthly wage. One major advantage for Nevada
- [Kentucky Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $720/Week for 26 Weeks, Partial UI Rules, Taxes, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/kentucky-ky-career-center-unemployment-benefit-program-latest-news-and-updates-after-pandemic-benefits-expiry/) - Kentucky's unemployment insurance program — managed by the Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet (KEWES) — increased its maximum weekly benefit significantly to $720 in 2026, up from $552 in 2025. This $168 increase reflects Kentucky's rapidly rising average weekly wage as the state's economy has grown. Kentucky's flat income tax rate also dropped to
- [Colorado Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $844/Week for 26 Weeks, Partial UI Rules, Taxes, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/colorado-co-unemployment-insurance-compensation-and-enhanced-ui-benefits/) - Colorado's unemployment insurance program — managed by the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE) — raised its maximum weekly benefit to $844 in 2026, up from $781 in 2025. Colorado sets its maximum at two-thirds of the statewide average weekly wage, adjusted each January, keeping benefits closely tied to actual wage levels in the
- [Pennsylvania Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $605/Week for 26 Weeks, Partial UI Rules, Taxes, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/pennsylvania-pa-department-of-labor-and-industry-additional-600-fpuc-and-pua-benefits/) - Pennsylvania's unemployment compensation program — managed by the PA Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) — increased its maximum weekly benefit to $605 for 2026, effective January 1, from $561 in 2025. Pennsylvania sets its maximum at approximately 66⅔% of the statewide average weekly wage, adjusted each January. Importantly, Pennsylvania is one of the few
- [Minnesota Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $914/Week for 26 Weeks, Partial UI Rules, Taxes, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/minnesota-ui-program-deed-unemployment-benefits-news-and-updates-on-extended-2021-programs-300-fpuc-pua-and-peuc/) - Minnesota's unemployment insurance program — managed by the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) — increased its maximum weekly benefit to $914 in 2026, up from $857 in 2025. Minnesota sets its maximum at 50% of the statewide average weekly wage, adjusted annually. The state's strong labor market and high average wages push it
- [New Jersey Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $905/Week for 26 Weeks, Partial UI Rules, Taxes, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/new-jersey-nj-division-of-unemployment-insurance-600-fpuc-and-pua/) - New Jersey's unemployment insurance program — managed by the NJ Division of Unemployment Insurance — provides some of the strongest UI benefits in the country. The maximum weekly benefit rose to $905 for 2026, up from $854 the year before, following the statutory annual adjustment. New Jersey ties its maximum to 56⅔% of the statewide
- [Michigan Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $530/Week for 20 Weeks, Partial UI Rules, Taxes, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/michigan-state-unemployment-stimulus-and-tax-credit-programs-latest-news-and-updates/) - Michigan's unemployment insurance program — managed by the Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) — saw its first significant benefit increase in years starting January 1, 2026. The maximum weekly benefit rose from $446 to $530 per claim filed in 2026, a $84/week improvement following SB 40 signed by Governor Whitmer. Michigan also increased the per-dependent supplement
- [New York Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $869/Week, Partial UI Rules, Taxes, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/new-york-dept-of-labor-unemployment-insurance-compensation-600-fpuc-and-pua/) - New York's unemployment insurance program — managed by the New York State Department of Labor (NY DOL) — is now among the most generous in the country. The maximum benefit rose from $504 to $869 effective with payments issued the week of October 13, 2025 — the first increase since 2019. The increase was part
- [Massachusetts Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $1,105/Week for 30 Weeks, Partial UI Rules, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/massachusetts-ma-department-of-unemployment-assistance-600-fpuc-and-pua-extended-benefits/) - Massachusetts' unemployment insurance program — managed by the Department of Unemployment Assistance (DUA) — provides up to $1,105 per week in 2026, the second-highest maximum in the country. Massachusetts sets its maximum benefit each October using a formula tied to the state average weekly wage: 57.5% of the prior year's average weekly wage, which rose
- [Oregon Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $902/Week, Partial UI Rules, High State Tax, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/oregon-unemployment-benefits-in-2026-up-to-813week-partial-ui-rules-high-state-t/) - Oregon's unemployment insurance program — managed by the Oregon Employment Department (OED) — provides up to $902 per week in 2026. Oregon has a strong safety net overall, including one of the most comprehensive Medicaid expansions and a relatively new Paid Leave Oregon program. However, Oregon's high state income taxes mean UI benefits face a
- [Connecticut Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $721/Week Plus Dependents Allowance — Full Guide](https://savingtoinvest.com/connecticut-unemployment-benefits-in-2026-up-to-759week-plus-dependents-allowanc/) - Connecticut's unemployment insurance program — managed by the Connecticut Department of Labor (CTDOL) — has one of the higher benefit maximums in the Northeast at $721 per week for 2026. The state also provides a dependents allowance, which adds meaningful dollars for families. Compare Connecticut to all other states at SavingToInvest's unemployment benefits by state
- [Rhode Island Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $931/Week With Dependents, Partial UI Rules, Taxes, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/rhode-island-unemployment-benefits-in-2026-up-to-931week-with-dependents-partial/) - Rhode Island's unemployment insurance program — managed by the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training (DLT) — is notable for its dependents allowance: workers with dependents can receive up to $931 per week in 2026, significantly more than the base maximum of $745. Rhode Island also has a Temporary Caregiver Insurance (TCI) program for
- [Maine Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $623/Week, Partial UI Rules, Taxes, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/maine-unemployment-benefits-in-2026-up-to-589week-partial-ui-rules-taxes-and-wha/) - Maine's unemployment insurance program — managed by the Maine Department of Labor (MDOL) — provides up to $623 per week in 2026. Maine's 50% earnings disregard for partial benefits is one of the most worker-friendly in New England, and the state has expanded Medicaid, providing an important safety net for those who lose job-based health
- [Wyoming Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $651/Week, No State Income Tax, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/wyoming-unemployment-benefits-in-2026-up-to-560week-no-state-income-tax-and-what/) - Wyoming's unemployment insurance program — managed by the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services (DWS) — provides up to $651 per week in 2026. Wyoming's no-income-tax status and very generous 50% earnings disregard make it one of the friendlier UI systems for workers who can pick up part-time income. However, Wyoming's failure to expand Medicaid leaves
- [West Virginia Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $662/Week, Partial UI Rules, Taxes, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/west-virginia-unemployment-benefits-in-2026-up-to-424week-partial-ui-rules-taxes/) - West Virginia's unemployment insurance program — managed by WorkForce West Virginia — provides up to $662 per week in 2026. West Virginia's very generous 50% of WBA earnings disregard stands out as one of the best partial UI policies in the region. West Virginia expanded Medicaid in 2014 and has a relatively comprehensive safety net
- [Vermont Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $757/Week, Partial UI Rules, High State Tax, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/vermont-unemployment-benefits-in-2026-up-to-589week-partial-ui-rules-high-state/) - Vermont's unemployment insurance program — managed by the Vermont Department of Labor (VDOL) — provides up to $757 per week in 2026. Vermont has high state income taxes that apply to UI, so recipients should plan for significant state withholding. On the positive side, Vermont's expanded Medicaid (Green Mountain Care) and strong SNAP program mean
- [Utah Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $801/Week, Partial UI Rules, Flat State Tax, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/utah-unemployment-benefits-in-2026-up-to-668week-partial-ui-rules-flat-state-tax/) - Utah's unemployment insurance program — managed by the Utah Department of Workforce Services (DWS) — provides up to $801 per week in 2026. Utah has a flat income tax rate, making state tax calculations simple, and an expanded Medicaid program (called Medicaid Expansion in Utah, effective 2020) that ensures most UI recipients can access health
- [South Dakota Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $553/Week, No State Income Tax, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/south-dakota-unemployment-benefits-in-2026-up-to-487week-no-state-income-tax-and/) - South Dakota's unemployment insurance program — managed by the South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) — provides up to $553 per week in 2026. The no-income-tax advantage means UI recipients keep more of each check compared to workers in high-tax states. However, South Dakota's Medicaid non-expansion leaves a healthcare gap worth noting. See
- [North Dakota Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $815/Week, Partial UI Rules, Taxes, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/north-dakota-unemployment-benefits-in-2026-up-to-748week-partial-ui-rules-taxes/) - North Dakota's unemployment insurance program — managed by Job Service North Dakota (JSND) — provides up to $815 per week in 2026. North Dakota also has one of the most generous partial UI earnings disregards in the country at 60% of WBA — giving workers the most flexibility for part-time income while still collecting benefits.
- [New Mexico Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $624/Week, Partial UI Rules, Taxes, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/new-mexico-unemployment-benefits-in-2026-up-to-511week-partial-ui-rules-taxes-an/) - New Mexico's unemployment insurance program — managed by the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions (NMDWS) — provides up to $624 per week in 2026. New Mexico has one of the higher Medicaid enrollment rates in the country due to its expanded program and relatively lower household incomes, making health coverage continuity during unemployment easier
- [Montana Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $698/Week for 28 Weeks, Partial UI Rules, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/montana-unemployment-benefits-in-2026-up-to-552week-for-28-weeks-partial-ui-rule/) - Montana's unemployment insurance program — managed by the UI Division of the Montana Department of Labor and Industry — provides up to $698 per week in 2026 with a 28-week duration that's slightly longer than most states. Montana's economy — heavily influenced by agriculture, tourism, and extractive industries — can see significant seasonal layoffs, making
- [Iowa Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $739/Week, Partial UI Rules, Taxes, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/iowa-unemployment-benefits-in-2026-up-to-591week-partial-ui-rules-taxes-and-what/) - Iowa's unemployment insurance program — managed by Iowa Workforce Development (IWD) — offers up to $739 per week in 2026. Iowa's benefit is above average for the Midwest, and the state's relatively flat cost of living outside of Des Moines means the UI program provides meaningful income replacement for many workers. Compare Iowa to all
- [Idaho Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $624/Week, Partial UI Rules, Taxes, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/idaho-unemployment-benefits-in-2026-up-to-532week-partial-ui-rules-taxes-and-wha/) - Idaho's unemployment insurance program — managed by the Idaho Department of Labor (IDOL) — offers up to $624 per week in 2026. Idaho is a moderate-benefit state, though its partial UI rules make earning part-time income while collecting benefits particularly difficult. See how Idaho compares to other states at SavingToInvest's unemployment benefits state comparison. 2026
- [Hawaii Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $868/Week, Partial UI Rules, Taxes, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/hawaii-unemployment-benefits-in-2026-up-to-823week-partial-ui-rules-taxes-and-wh/) - Hawaii's unemployment insurance program — managed by the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR) — provides up to $868 per week in 2026. While the dollar amount is high compared to most states, Hawaii's exceptionally high cost of living — particularly on Oahu — means UI provides limited real income replacement. See how Hawaii
- [Delaware Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $450/Week, Partial UI Rules, Taxes, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/delaware-unemployment-benefits-in-2026-up-to-400week-partial-ui-rules-taxes-and/) - Delaware's unemployment insurance program — managed by the Delaware Department of Labor — provides up to $450 per week in 2026 for up to 26 weeks. The cap is moderate for a Mid-Atlantic state, and Delaware's partial UI earnings disregard is one of the lowest in the country at just $10 per week. For context
- [Louisiana Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $275/Week, Partial UI Rules, Taxes, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/louisiana-unemployment-benefits-in-2026-up-to-247week-partial-ui-rules-taxes-and/) - Louisiana's unemployment insurance program — managed by the Louisiana Workforce Commission (LWC) — has a maximum of just $275 per week in 2026. Only Mississippi's $235 cap is lower nationally. For context on how extreme this is: $275/week is roughly $1,070/month — well below the cost of a one-bedroom apartment in virtually any Louisiana city.
- [Texas SNAP / Food Stamp Program 2026: EBT Amounts, Deposit Dates, and Eligibility Update](https://savingtoinvest.com/texas-snap-food-stamp-program-will-2023-pandemic-emergency-allotment-boost-be-extended-latest-updates-and-news/) - The maximum SNAP benefit for a Texas family of four is $994 per month in fiscal year 2026 — up from $975 last year. Benefits load onto your Lone Star Card between the 1st and 28th of each month, depending on your case number. But 2026 is a more complicated year than most for SNAP.
- [Washington State Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $1,152/Week (Highest in the US), No State Income Tax, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/washington-state-unemployment-benefits-in-2026-up-to-1152week-highest-in-the-us/) - Washington State’s unemployment insurance program — managed by the Washington State Employment Security Department (ESD) — provides up to $1,152 per week in 2026 — the highest maximum of any state in the US. Washington’s no-income-tax status means workers keep the full state-level value of every UI check. Washington also has one of the best
- [South Carolina Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $326/Week for 20 Weeks, No Medicaid Expansion, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/south-carolina-unemployment-benefits-in-2026-up-to-326week-for-20-weeks-no-medic/) - South Carolina’s unemployment insurance program — managed by the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce (DEW) — provides up to $326 per week in 2026 for a maximum of 20 weeks. This short duration and low cap put South Carolina near the bottom nationally for UI generosity. Workers facing job loss in South Carolina
- [Oklahoma Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $649/Week, Partial UI Rules, Taxes, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/oklahoma-unemployment-benefits-in-2026-up-to-649week-partial-ui-rules-taxes-and/) - Oklahoma’s unemployment insurance program — managed by the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission (OESC) — provides up to $649 per week in 2026. One important warning for Oklahoma workers: Oklahoma did NOT expand Medicaid under the ACA until 2021, and while SoonerCare (Oklahoma Medicaid) now covers more adults, coverage gaps can still exist depending on income
- [New Hampshire Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $427/Week, No State Income Tax, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/new-hampshire-unemployment-benefits-in-2026-up-to-427week-no-state-income-tax-an/) - New Hampshire’s unemployment insurance program — managed by New Hampshire Employment Security (NHES) — provides up to $427 per week in 2026. The state has no income tax on wages or benefits — New Hampshire’s long-standing tax philosophy means your UI check arrives without any state tax bite. New Hampshire’s Medicaid expansion and relatively strong
- [Nebraska Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $582/Week, Partial UI Rules, Taxes, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/nebraska-unemployment-benefits-in-2026-up-to-582week-partial-ui-rules-taxes-and/) - Nebraska’s unemployment insurance program — managed by the Nebraska Department of Labor (NDOL) — provides up to $582 per week in 2026. Nebraska expanded Medicaid in 2020 following a voter initiative, which significantly strengthened the safety net for unemployed workers. See how Nebraska’s benefits compare nationally at SavingToInvest’s state unemployment benefits guide. Covered in this
- [Missouri Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $320/Week for 20 Weeks, Partial UI Rules, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/missouri-unemployment-benefits-in-2026-up-to-320week-for-20-weeks-partial-ui-rul/) - Missouri’s unemployment insurance program — managed by the Division of Employment Security (DES) — has a maximum of $320 per week in 2026, capped at just 20 weeks. Missouri sits alongside Arkansas, Kansas, and North Carolina as states that have reduced their standard benefit duration below the traditional 26 weeks. For comparison with other states,
- [Mississippi Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $235/Week — the Lowest Cap in the US, Plus What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/mississippi-unemployment-benefits-in-2026-up-to-235week-the-lowest-cap-in-the-us/) - Mississippi’s unemployment insurance program — managed by the Mississippi Department of Employment Security (MDES) — provides just $235 per week in 2026. This is the lowest maximum weekly unemployment benefit in the country. For context, $235 per week is $1,020 per month — less than the average utility bill plus rent in most Mississippi cities.
- [Indiana Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $390/Week, Partial UI Rules, Taxes, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/indiana-unemployment-benefits-in-2026-up-to-390week-partial-ui-rules-taxes-and-w/) - Indiana’s unemployment insurance program — managed by the Department of Workforce Development (DWD) — offers up to $390 per week in 2026. Indiana has a relatively low maximum benefit for the Midwest, though the state’s lower cost of living softens that somewhat. Indiana also has a unique Medicaid program (HIP 2.0) that differs from standard
- [Alaska Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $370/Week, No State Tax, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/alaska-unemployment-benefits-in-2026-up-to-370week-no-state-tax-and-what-else-is/) - Alaska’s unemployment insurance program — managed by the Department of Labor and Workforce Development (DOLWD) — provides up to $370 per week in 2026. Given that Alaska consistently ranks among the most expensive states to live in, the $370 cap provides more limited income replacement than the dollar amount might imply. That said, Alaska’s complete
- [Alabama Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $275/Week, Partial UI Rules, Taxes, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/alabama-unemployment-adol-300-lost-wages-assistance-lwa-600-fpuc-peuc-and-pua-news-and-updates/) - Alabama's unemployment insurance program — managed by the Alabama Department of Labor (ADOL) — has the distinction of one of the lowest maximum weekly benefit caps in the United States at $275 per week. While the 26-week duration is in line with most other states, the dollar amount limits how much income replacement UI can
- [Arkansas Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $451/Week for 16 Weeks, Partial UI, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/arkansas-ar-adws-enhanced-unemployment-benefit-programs-fpuc-peuc-and-pua-2021-extension-news-and-updates/) - Arkansas's unemployment insurance program — run by the Division of Workforce Services (DWS) — provides a relatively modest weekly maximum of $451 and limits benefits to just 16 weeks. That combination of a lower cap and short duration means workers need to plan ahead and understand what supplemental programs are available. Here's everything you need
- [Tennessee Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $325/Week, No State Income Tax, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/tennessee-tn-enhanced-unemployment-benefit-programs-fpuc-peuc-and-pua-2021-extension-delays-news-and-updates/) - Tennessee's unemployment insurance program, administered by the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development, provides benefits for up to 26 weeks. The 2026 maximum of $325 per week is modest — Tennessee's cap has historically been one of the lower ones in the South. But one notable advantage is Tennessee's complete absence of a state
- [Arizona Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $320/Week for 24 Weeks, Partial UI, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/arizona-az-department-of-economic-security-unemployment-insurance-compensation-600-fpuc-and-pua-delays/) - Arizona's unemployment insurance program, administered by the Department of Economic Security (DES), provides benefits for up to 24 weeks. With a 2026 maximum of $320 per week, Arizona's benefit cap is lower than most western states, though the program covers a solid range of workers and provides meaningful partial benefits for those still working reduced
- [Wisconsin Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $370/Week, Partial UI Rules, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/wisconsin-unemployment-insurance-benefits-help-and-enhanced-ui-programs-pua-peuc-fpuc-status-and-information/) - Wisconsin's unemployment insurance program, run by the Department of Workforce Development (DWD), provides benefits for up to 26 weeks. With a 2026 maximum of $370 per week, the benefit amounts are on the lower end for a Midwest state, but the program's partial unemployment rules and access to complementary state programs can meaningfully extend your
- [North Carolina Unemployment Benefits in 2026: $350/Week Maximum, 12-Week Limit, and What Else Is Available](https://savingtoinvest.com/north-carolina-nc-des-unemployment-benefits-under-regular-state-ui-lwa-pua-and-peuc-updates-and-news/) - North Carolina's unemployment insurance program, run by the Division of Employment Security (DES), is one of the most restrictive in the United States. The state cap of $350 per week is low compared to peers, and the 12-week maximum duration is tied with Florida for the shortest in the country. If you're relying on UI
- [Ohio Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $842/Week with Dependents, Partial UI, and Tax Rules](https://savingtoinvest.com/ohio-oh-department-of-job-and-family-services-odjfs-fpuc-peuc-pua-and-eb-unemployment-benefit-payments/) - Ohio's unemployment insurance program — run by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) — pays benefits for up to 26 weeks, with a meaningful boost for workers who have dependents. The dependent allowance can push the maximum weekly benefit from $624 up to $842, which is a substantial difference over a six-month
- [Illinois Unemployment Benefits in 2026: Up to $859/Week, Tax Rules, and What Else You Can Claim](https://savingtoinvest.com/illinois-il-division-of-unemployment-insurance-600-fpuc-peuc-and-pua/) - If you've lost your job or had your hours cut in Illinois, the state's unemployment insurance system offers some of the stronger benefits in the Midwest. The maximum weekly benefit runs to $628 for individual claimants — and jumps to $859 per week if you have dependent children. Here's what to know about 2026 rates,
- [Georgia Unemployment Insurance (GDOL) Benefits in 2026 — $365/Week, Up to 14 Weeks](https://savingtoinvest.com/georgia-ga-department-of-labor-600-fpuc-and-pua-for-extra-unemployment-insurance/) - Georgia's maximum weekly unemployment insurance benefit is $365, and the state provides up to 14 weeks of regular benefits — one of the shorter durations among larger states. It's not the most generous program in the country, but it's also one of the faster and more straightforward systems once you know what to expect. The
- [Florida Reemployment Assistance (Unemployment) in 2026 — $275/Week, 12 Weeks, and How to File](https://savingtoinvest.com/florida-fl-unemployment-insurance-compensation-reemployment-assistance-benefits-program/) - Florida pays a maximum of $275 per week in Reemployment Assistance benefits, and you can only collect for 12 weeks in 2026. That's not a typo. Florida's system is one of the most restrictive in the United States — both in dollar amount and duration. To put it in perspective: if you were earning $50,000
- [California Unemployment Insurance (EDD) Benefits in 2026 — What You Can Get and How to File](https://savingtoinvest.com/californias-employment-development-department-for-unemployment-insurance/) - The maximum weekly unemployment benefit in California is $450, and it has been stuck at that level since 2005. If you lost a job paying $60,000 a year, that's about $1,154 per week — you'd be capped at less than 40% of what you made. It's a number worth knowing before you count on unemployment
- [AI Infrastructure Investing: How to Think About the Trade Behind the AI Boom](https://savingtoinvest.com/ai-infrastructure-investing-how-to-think-about-the-trade-behind-the-ai-boom/) - By mid-2026, the AI story on Wall Street has shifted. It's no longer just about which company has the smartest chatbot — it's about who's pouring concrete, stringing transformers, and laying fiber to keep the whole thing running. Big Tech is now projected to spend somewhere between $500 billion and $650 billion this year alone
- [Using AI to Invest in Stock Market Momentum: How I Made a Quick $4000 in 3 Trading Days](https://savingtoinvest.com/using-ai-to-invest-in-stock-market-momentum-how-i-made-a-quick-4000-in-3-trading-days/) - Right now, the stock market is booming despite all the geopolitical risk, inflation, and other headwinds. In particular, a lot of AI-related stocks are booming thanks to the massive amounts of money being spent by the largest companies in the world. The current investing climate is definitely not one for fundamental or technical investors. It’s
- [How Much Money Do You Really Need to Be Financially Independent?](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-much-money-do-you-really-need-to-be-financially-independent/) - Most people dream of living a comfortable life without worrying about money. Though many people see this as lofty dreaming about yachts and summer homes, more and more people are turning these ideas into an achievable reality and gaining financial independence at a staggering rate. Financial independence means that you’re able to live comfortably within
- [Are Adult Kids Still on Your Cell Phone Plan? What the Numbers Say](https://savingtoinvest.com/are-adult-kids-still-on-your-cell-phone-plan-what-the-numbers-say/) - Here’s a question that comes up at a lot of family dinners: “So… when are you getting your own phone plan?” If you’ve been on the giving or receiving end of that conversation, you’re not alone. A surprisingly large share of American adults — well into their 20s and beyond — are still on their
- [How to Invest Without FOMO: Smart Strategies for 2026](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-to-invest-without-fomo-smart-strategies-for-2026/) - Does it feel like you missed the recent crypto surge or AI tech stock rally? This feeling is the Fear Of Missing Out, or FOMO. It drives many investors to buy at the peak and sell in a panic. This is a story that keeps repeating through history during any extended hype cycle. We have
- [How to Save Money and Time on Your Next Vacation Using AI plus Social Media](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-to-save-money-on-vacation-using-ai-and-social-media/) - You know the drill: you open a browser tab to check flights, then another for hotels, then one more for rental cars, and suddenly you have 18 tabs open and no idea which deal is actually the best one. Two hours later, you book something — probably not at the best price — and spend
- [Are You Upper Middle Class?](https://savingtoinvest.com/are-you-upper-middle-class/) - According to a recent article in the WSJ, more and more Americans are getting richer despite an adverse macroeconomic environment. Here is what they classify as upper middle class based on income. ....[Upper Middle Class] is classified a family of three earning $133,000 to $400,000 (in 2024 dollars). Households earning more were categorized as rich.
- [Updated 2026-2027 State Unemployment Max-Min Benefits with Qualifying Wage Table](https://savingtoinvest.com/updated-2026-to-2027-state-unemployment-benefits-and-wage-table/) - Here are the latest maximum and minimum unemployment payments for each state, including the minimum wage base earnings to qualify for these benefits. With a worsening economy and ongoing job losses, it its important to keep these unemployment benefits in mind. Always apply for benefits via your state's official website (see a full listing). Summary
- [Quarterly Estimated Taxes This Year: What Freelancers Actually Need to Know](https://savingtoinvest.com/quarterly-estimated-taxes-this-year-what-freelancers-actually-need-to-know/) - Last year, a friend of mine who'd been freelancing for three years got hit with a $1,400 penalty from the IRS — not because she didn't pay her taxes, but because she paid them all at once in April. She'd been doing this since she started. Nobody told her it was a problem until she
- [2026 Maximum Weekly Unemployment Insurance Benefits and Weeks By State](https://savingtoinvest.com/maximum-weekly-unemployment-benefits-by-state/) - Listed in the table below are the latest maximum weekly unemployment insurance benefit/compensation amounts by state. The Unemployment compensation (UC) program is designed to provide benefits to most individuals out of work or in between jobs, through no fault of their own. Note, the table contains the the maximum regular weekly state unemployment insurance compensation (benefit),
- [10 Better Ways to Spend $1 Billion a Day Than on the Iran War](https://savingtoinvest.com/10-better-ways-to-spend-1-billion-a-day-than-on-the-iran-war/) - The Department of Defense and offiical news sources have estimated that American taxpayers are spending (or likely too) more than $1 billion per day on the Iran conflict (CSIS, 2026). This would equate to over $300 billion per year if you annualized that amount. As a contrast if that rate of spending were redirected toward
- [Massive Refund Increases for American Workers](https://savingtoinvest.com/massive-refund-increases-for-american-workers/) - The 2026 tax filing season is proving to be historic for the average taxpayer. Early data from the Treasury Department shows that the average refund has climbed to over $3,700. This represents a nearly 11% increase compared to the same period just one year ago. For many households, this extra $350 to $400 is the
- [Your 2026 Tax Refund Could Be 11% Bigger—Here's How to Claim Every Dollar](https://savingtoinvest.com/your-2026-tax-refund-could-be-11-bigger-heres-how-to-claim-every-dollar/) - Sarah Martinez, a restaurant server in Phoenix, couldn't believe her eyes when she checked her refund status in February. Instead of the usual $2,800, she was getting back $4,200. "I thought there was a mistake," she told me. "But then my tax preparer explained the new tip deduction. That extra $1,400 is going straight into
- [Master Your Money: The Ultimate Personal Income and Spending Roadmap](https://savingtoinvest.com/master-your-money-the-ultimate-personal-income-and-spending-roadmap/) - Imagine sitting at your kitchen table with a stack of bills and a paycheck that feels like it’s already gone. You worked hard for years, yet your bank balance barely reflects that effort. Most Americans feel this exact pressure every single month. We often treat our finances like a guessing game rather than a repeatable
- [Avoid Costly Mistakes When Inheriting an IRA in 2026: Tax-Smart Tips](https://savingtoinvest.com/avoid-costly-mistakes-when-inheriting-an-ira-in-2026-tax-smart-tips/) - Inheriting an IRA can be a mixed blessing - on the one hand, it's a windfall, but on the other, it comes with a complex set of rules that can cost you thousands if you're not careful. Whether you've inherited a traditional IRA or a Roth IRA, navigating the IRS regulations in 2026 requires a
- [Tech Layoffs and the AI Shift: What Ongoing Job Cuts Mean for Your Career and Wallet](https://savingtoinvest.com/tech-layoffs-and-the-ai-shift-what-ongoing-job-cuts-mean-for-your-career-and-wallet/) - Imagine waking up to a notification that your company just reported record-breaking profits. You feel a sense of security until, moments later, a second alert hits following a CEO Notification: 40% of your colleagues are being let out the door. This isn't a hypothetical nightmare; it is the current reality for thousands of employees at
- [Will Anyone Take Trump's Tariff's Seriously Anymore?](https://savingtoinvest.com/will-anyone-take-trumps-tariffs-seriously-anymore/) - After the Supreme Court struck down the tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, the Trump administration has responded by unilaterally imposing 15% tariffs for the next 150 days via Executive order under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. He initially had the figure at 10%, but added 5% more after
- [How to Reach a Live IRS Agent in 2026: Your Ultimate Guide to Fast-Tracking Your Tax Refund](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-to-reach-a-live-irs-agent-in-2026-your-ultimate-guide-to-fast-tracking-your-tax-refund/) - Imagine checking your bank account every morning, hoping to see your tax refund hit your balance. You filed weeks ago, yet the status bar on the "Where’s My Refund" tool hasn't budged an inch. We have all felt that sinking sensation of financial limbo when the government holds onto your hard-earned money. You try to
- [Could Your 2026 Tax Refund Double As a Stimulus Check? Experts Weigh In](https://savingtoinvest.com/could-your-2026-tax-refund-double-as-a-stimulus-check-experts-weigh-in/) - The economic landscape of 2026 has many Americans wondering: could tax refunds be used as a form of financial stimulus? With inflation still a concern and financial challenges lingering from prior years, experts are brainstorming ways to put more money in taxpayers' pockets. One idea gaining traction is the possibility of stimulus checks being issued
- [Average State Tax Refunds in 2026: What to Expect and How to Maximize Yours](https://savingtoinvest.com/average-state-tax-refunds-in-2026-what-to-expect-and-how-to-maximize-yours/) - Last year, Sarah was shocked when her state tax refund was barely enough for a tank of gas. She was counting on her refund to pay for a few overdue bills. Many of us share that same anxiety or disappointment as we file our taxes and see what are expected refund will be. We often
- [How AI Is Driving Productivity and Transforming Your Finances](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-ai-is-driving-productivity-and-transforming-your-finances/) - Imagine a world where artificial intelligence (AI) isn't just streamlining business processes, but directly impacts your wallet. That world is already here. According to the latest 2026 economic data, AI's influence on productivity is no longer a hypothetical scenario – it's a tangible and monumental shift that's changing the game. The ripple effects of AI
- [California vs. Florida - Where Your Tax Refund Goes Further in 2026](https://savingtoinvest.com/california-vs-florida-where-your-tax-refund-goes-further-in-2026/) - Imagine checking your bank account and seeing a fresh $4,000 federal tax refund deposit. For many of us, this is the biggest single paycheck we will receive all year. You might dream of using that money for a down payment, a reliable used car, or a much-needed family vacation. However, the "buying power" of that
- [New 4x SALT Cap: How Much Will You Actually Save?](https://savingtoinvest.com/new-4x-salt-cap-how-much-will-you-actually-save/) - For years, the $10,000 limit on State and Local Tax (SALT) deductions felt like a heavy weight for homeowners in high-tax states. Imagine you live in a state like New Jersey or California, paying $15,000 in property taxes and $12,000 in state income tax. Under the old rules, you could only deduct $10,000, essentially paying
- [2026 PATH Refund Status & IRS Release Dates Confirmed](https://savingtoinvest.com/2026-path-refund-status-irs-release-dates-confirmed/) - The IRS has confirmed that it will lift the Path ACT refund holds and provide payment status' on IRS2Go and WMR by February 21st, 2026. Refund payments/release will start around March 2nd, 2026 for PATH held tax returns. Initial payments will be for taxpayers who have filed electronically and selected a direct deposit payment method
- [Updated 2026 PATH IRS Refund Payment Release Dates](https://savingtoinvest.com/tax-refund-payment-delays-likely-according-to-the-irs/) - [Updated PATH Refund Status & Release Dates] Early tax filers who claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) may experience a payment delay or freeze in their refund until early March due to the PATH Act. See below for when returns impacted by the PATH restrictions will be processed
- [Improving your Job Situation Through Training, Networking and Exercising](https://savingtoinvest.com/posts/) - With unemployment rising on a monthly basis and the growing number of layoffs being announced by businesses small and large, you should be grateful that you are currently in a job. Even if you are stuck in a job that is not fulfilling or with a team that you don't feel you belong in, this
- [The Meaning of Work - Finding Meaning From Your Job](https://savingtoinvest.com/meaning-of-work/) - Finding meaning from your job is something, like a lot of people, I struggle with. One of the most common complaints by people working is "the money may be good but where is the meaning? How can I make a difference?". There are two things that give work meaning. First is the satisfaction that comes
- [10 Free Ways to Use AI for Managing Your Personal Finances (with Sample Prompts)](https://savingtoinvest.com/10-free-ways-to-use-ai-for-personal-finances-with-sample-prompts/) - Managing money used to mean hours hunched over a glowing spreadsheet or a kitchen table covered in crumpled receipts. If you are still doing that, you are working harder than you need to. That's because Artificial Intelligence (AI) has shifted from a futuristic concept to a practical tool that can handle the heavy lifting of
- [4 Tax Law Changes You Need to Know to Save Up to $4,000](https://savingtoinvest.com/4-tax-law-changes-you-need-to-know-to-save-up-to-4000/) - Filing taxes might never make your list of favorite activities, but the latest round of tax law changes could make it a lot less painful in 2026. In fact, if you play your cards right, these updates might actually save you up to $4,000. Whether you’re an individual taxpayer or part of a family, there’s
- [How Trump’s Education Plan in 2026 Could Spark the 'Un-College' Movement](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-trumps-education-plan-in-2026-could-spark-the-un-college-movement/) - The landscape of higher education could witness a seismic shift in 2026, fueled by proposed policy changes under Trump’s administration. As the cost of traditional four-year degrees continues to climb and the burden of student loan debt grows heavier, experts foresee a pivot toward alternative education pathways such as two-year degrees and short-term credentials —
- [How to Get Your Tax Refund Fast in 2026: What You Need to Know](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-to-get-your-tax-refund-fast-in-2026-what-you-need-to-know/) - The dreaded tax season is upon us again, and while tax regulations are an annual headache, securing your refund quickly doesn’t have to be. Every year, millions of Americans ask the same question: “Where's my refund?” Tax season 2026 will present new challenges and opportunities, so understanding the process and taking proactive steps can ensure
- [Filing Taxes Separately Was a Mistake—Here's How to Fix It](https://savingtoinvest.com/filing-taxes-separately-was-a-mistake-heres-how-to-fix-it/) - Taxes can be complicated, especially for newlyweds figuring out how marriage changes their filing process. Choosing "Married Filing Separately" (MFS) may have seemed like the easiest route at first. However, now you've realized this filing status isn’t ideal for your situation—or worse, it has led to issues like rejected forms or lost tax benefits. Don't
- [Navigating Tax Refund Deposit Delays and Payment Issues](https://savingtoinvest.com/navigating-tax-refund-deposit-delays-and-payment-issues/) - When it comes to financial planning, few things are as eagerly awaited as a tax refund deposit hitting your account. You might be scrambling to pay off bills. Perhaps you are channeling funds into savings. You could also be simply treating yourself for a job well done. The timing of state and federal tax return
- [We Apologize But Your Return Processing Has Been Delayed Beyond The Normal Timeframe - 2026 Payment Updates](https://savingtoinvest.com/refund-status-return-processing-has-been-delayed-beyond-the-normal-timeframe/) - Many tax filers are again seeing the message below on the IRS' Where is My Refund (WMR) page or IRS2Go app days after their return is filed and accepted by the IRS, including after PATH restrictions have lifted. Unfortunately this message just seems to create more frustration and confusion for many filers, because it does
- [DoD Employees Getting $25K Bonus While Other Federal Employees Get Cut](https://savingtoinvest.com/dod-employees-getting-25k-bonus-while-other-federal-employees-get-cut/) - In a sign of the times and the seemingly inherent war footing the current administration is taking, it was little surprise to see many Departmet of Defense/War are getting a bonus of 15 to 25 percent (up to $25,000) of basic pay. per recent directives. This trend continues despite the current administration’s ongoing push to
- [2026 IRS Cycle Code Calendar Chart - Using Your Tax Transcript to Get Refund Processing Updates and Direct Deposit Dates](https://savingtoinvest.com/irs-refund-cycle-code-and-dates-using-tax-transcript-to-get-master-file-information-for-your-direct-deposit-date/) - [UPDATED chart for 2026] Every tax season there is a guessing game played by millions of American tax payers on when they will get their refund payment deposited into their bank account. There is the so-called IRS refund schedule, which has estimated dates for when the agency will make refund deposits to bank accounts or
- [Pay for Pardon Now For Sale Under Trump Administration](https://savingtoinvest.com/pay-for-pardon-now-for-sale-under-trump-administration/) - The use of the presidential pardon is becoming absurd. It seems that every other day, we hear about another wealthy Bitcoin entrepreneur, political operative, or well-connected individual receiving clemency from the Trump administration. A recent case in point is the pardon of former Puerto Rico Governor Wanda Vázquez Garced and billionaire Venezuelan-Italian banker Julio Martin
- [Should I Invest more or Sell Now?](https://savingtoinvest.com/should-i-invest-more-or-sell-now/) - This classic investor paradox is what I find myself pondering these days. I am keenly aware of the medium-to-long-term negative impacts geopolitical risks can have, but it is also hard to ignore the inexorable rise of the market—and one certainly doesn’t want to miss out. Like many investors, I am unclear on the best move,
- [IRS Tax Refund Payment Delays, Updates and Helpful Transcript Codes](https://savingtoinvest.com/processing-dates-to-get-my-refund-payment-dates/) - Many tax filers are anxiously waiting for the IRS to provide updates on their refund release and payment date. Particularly now that the PATH act refund freeze has lifted. These are mainly folks with a processing dates out 1 to 3 weeks with daily or weekly cycle codes, per their IRS tax transcript as shown
- [IRS to Start Processing 2025 Tax Returns From Jan 26th](https://savingtoinvest.com/irs-to-start-processing-2025-tax-returns-from-jan-26th/) - The IRS has confirmed it will start processing 2025 tax filings and refunds from January 26th, 2026. Key dates to be aware of are shown in the table below. See this detailed article for more information and expected refund processing schedule. [table id=142 /] Although the IRS will not start accepting and processing tax returns until late January, people don't need
- [Federal Employees on GS Pay Scale to Get Tiny Raise in 2026 (See Updated GS Step Chart)](https://savingtoinvest.com/federal-employees-on-gs-pay-scale-to-get-1-raise-in-2026-see-updated-gs-step-chart/) - Despite concerns of a freeze to GS pay scales for 2026 the Trump Administration’s has ended up proposing a small raise for covered federal employees in 2026, per the recently submitted alternative pay plan. However locality pay adjustments were kept unchanged. Key updates are as follows and the the table below shows the updated GS pay chart based on this
- [10 Deadly Mistakes Buyers Make When Purchasing a Home and How to Avoid Them](https://savingtoinvest.com/10-deadly-mistakes-buyers-make-when/) - MISTAKE #1 - Choosing a real estate agent who is not committed to forming a strong business relationship with you HERE’S HOW TO AVOID IT: Making a connection with the right real estate agent is crucial. Choose a professional who is dedicated to serving your needs—before, during and after the sale. MISTAKE #2 - Making
- [Simple Tips and Ideas on What to Do Before and While You Sell Your Home](https://savingtoinvest.com/simple-things-to-do-before-and-while/) - Government incentives and a booming economy have definitely made this a sellers market. But the key for any seller to get the highest price possible is to still make their home stand out to prospective buyers, which involves having a good sales strategy before and while selling the house. Here are simple, but often over-looked,
- [The Million-Dollar Question: What It Takes to Join America's Wealthiest 10%](https://savingtoinvest.com/the-million-dollar-question-what-it-takes-to-join-americas-wealthiest-10/) - The concept of being "wealthy" means different things to everyone. For some, it means being debt-free and financially comfortable. For others, it means reaching the highest echelons of American affluence. The top 10% of households represents a major financial milestone for personal finance enthusiasts. It signifies a profound level of financial security and freedom. What
- [Maximize Your Money: The Essential 2026 Tax and Financial Planning Playbook](https://savingtoinvest.com/maximize-your-money-the-essential-2026-tax-and-financial-planning-playbook/) - The world of personal finance is always in motion, and 2026 brings some major shifts you need to know about. The IRS has released its final inflation adjustments, giving us clarity for the new tax year. Crucially, these updates work alongside provisions from the new "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" (OBBBA). This combination creates significant
- [Why is My Tax Refund So Low Compared to Last Year?](https://savingtoinvest.com/why-is-my-tax-refund-so-low-compared-to-prior-years/) - Millions of tax filers are now getting their actual tax refunds in line with the estimated IRS schedule. Payments are also being made in a much more timely fashion than was the case over the last few years. However when they filers see their actual refund is lower than expected, common questions that come up
- [Tip Less With The No Tax on Tips Deduction?](https://savingtoinvest.com/should-i-tip-less-with-the-no-tax-on-tips-deduction-now-in-place/) - The news lands in your lap like a crisp $20 bill: No tax on tips. It's a gift from the legislature, a clean cut for the servers, the bartenders, and the delivery drivers. The logic is simple, and on the surface, entirely pleasing: The person who serves you a great meal or drives you home
- [This Rising Costs of Our Financial Life Now and into the Future](https://savingtoinvest.com/this-rising-costs-of-our-financial-life-now-and-into-the-future/) - I saw this interesting graphic on the rising costs of basic needs from Goldman Sachs. It prompted me to think about my life in retirement and what future spending patterns will look like for my kids. Unless things change, this pattern will likely continue for the next couple of decades. Here are my five takeaways
- [Changes to your 2026 Medicare coverage](https://savingtoinvest.com/changes-to-your-2026-medicare-coverage/) - Here is a snapshot of the major changes to your 2026 Medicare coverage, primarily driven by the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). Following the snapshot are details that can help you manage your out-of-pocket health costs and refining plan benefits. Part I: Key Changes to Prescription Drug (Part D) Costs Your Drug Costs are Capped: Starting
- [The $10,000 Investment: 10 Low-Cost Exercises to Bulletproof Your Financial and Physical Health](https://savingtoinvest.com/the-10000-investment-10-low-cost-exercises-to-bulletproof-your-financial-and-physical-health/) - Personal finance is about more than just stocks and savings accounts. Your greatest asset, often overlooked, is your physical health. A strong, flexible body is a powerful hedge against massive future expenses. Ignoring chronic low back pain is a financial time bomb waiting to explode. It can lead to expensive doctor visits, lost work days,
- [401k, IRA and Roth IRA Contribution Limit Increases](https://savingtoinvest.com/2022-401k-ira-and-roth-ira-contribution-limits-and-large-income-thresholds-increases-over-2021-levels-official-irs-numbers/) - The IRS has released the latest 401(k), IRA and Roth individual contribution limits including income qualification and phase-out thresholds. See the tables below for limits and changes over the last few years. 401(k) Limits [table id=20 /] IRA Limits Tax deductible IRA contributions are based on qualifying income ranges and spousal participation in employer sponsored
- [The 2026 Tariff-Funded Farmer Stimulus Relief Package](https://savingtoinvest.com/the-2026-tariff-funded-farmer-stimulus-relief-package/) - The Trump administration has recently affirmed its commitment to provide a new round of financial assistance for U.S. farmers, utilizing revenue generated from the imposition of tariffs. This tariff-funded farmer relief is intended to be a crucial stop-gap as the agricultural sector grapples with low commodity prices and lost export markets due to ongoing trade
- [How and Where to Open an IRA or Roth IRA Account](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-and-where-to-open-a-traditional-or-roth-ira-account-and-factors-to-keep-in-mind/) - I receive a lot of questions on Individual retirement accounts (IRA) based on related posts I have written on this topic. One question that seems to come up often, is how to actually open an IRA account and where is the best place to do so. An IRA is your personal savings plan for retirement, offering tax
- [Protect Your Retirement Savings Through These 4 Diversification Strategies](https://savingtoinvest.com/protect-your-retirement-savings-through-these-4-diversification-strategies/) - With ongoing volatility across global markets and an uncertain future in terms of taxes, regulations and government safety nets such as social security; diversification is key in managing the risk associated with your retirement savings. That's why these four risk diversification strategies across products and services make a lot of sense for the changing world
- [Navigating the AI Investment Frenzy: A Guide to Protecting Your Portfolio](https://savingtoinvest.com/navigating-the-ai-investment-frenzy-a-guide-to-protecting-your-portfolio/) - The world is buzzing with the transformative power of artificial intelligence. From self-driving cars to chatbots that can write poetry, AI is reshaping our lives and, by extension, the financial markets. Investors are flocking to companies at the forefront of this revolution, leading to unprecedented gains and, for some, a growing sense of unease. While
- [The Psychology of Money In Group Trips That Damages Friendships](https://savingtoinvest.com/the-psychology-of-money-in-group-trips-that-damages-friendships/) - We’ve all been there. You’re on a group trip, the sun is setting, and the cocktails are flowing. You’ve just had the best day of your life, but then someone pulls out their phone and says, “Alright, let’s figure out who owes who.” The air goes stale, the laughter dies, and suddenly, the perfect day
- [The Great Deception: Why Companies Say AI Boosts Productivity When Job Losses Are the Darker Reality](https://savingtoinvest.com/the-great-deception-why-companies-say-ai-boosts-productivity-when-job-losses-are-the-darker-reality/) - When you hear a company executive talk about artificial intelligence, you’ll likely hear them use the word “productivity.” It’s a recurring theme in every CEO’s earnings call and tech company press release. The message is clear and optimistic: AI will automate the mundane, freeing up human workers to be more creative and strategic. While this
- [Understanding Roth 401K and IRA Retirement Plans Conversion Limits and Rules - 2025 and 2026 updates](https://savingtoinvest.com/401k-roll-overs-to-roth-accounts-may-soon-be-permitted/) - The landscape of retirement planning is constantly evolving, with new legislation and rules changing how we save for our golden years. One of the most significant shifts in recent years has been the increased flexibility in moving funds from traditional pre-tax retirement accounts to Roth accounts. This is a game-changer for many, offering the chance
- [The High Price of Trust: Unmasking a Crypto Recovery Pig Butchering Scam](https://savingtoinvest.com/the-high-price-of-trust-unmasking-a-crypto-recovery-pig-butchering-scam/) - The digital age promised unparalleled connectivity and opportunity, but with it came a darker side – sophisticated scams designed to prey on the unsuspecting. We recently encountered a harrowing account from a friend, let's call him Alex, who found himself ensnared in what appeared to be a lucrative crypto investment, only to discover it was
- [The Great Escape: Why Younger Generations Are Ditching Traditional Credit for BNPL and Digital Banking](https://savingtoinvest.com/the-great-escape-why-younger-generations-are-ditching-traditional-credit-for-bnpl-and-digital-banking/) - For years, the gold standard for financial health was a robust credit score built on a foundation of responsible credit card use. But a new generation of consumers has arrived, and they are writing a new financial rulebook. Younger Americans, burdened by student loans and wary of the 2008 financial crisis they witnessed firsthand, are
- [Using the New $40,000 SALT Deduction Cap in 2026 for Your 2025 Tax Filing](https://savingtoinvest.com/2018-state-and-local-taxes-salt-10000-deduction-cap-and-impact-on-your-federal-taxes/) - [Updated following passage of OBBB] The world of personal finance is a constant dance of numbers, rules, and ever-shifting legislation. For millions of American homeowners and high-earners, few changes have been as impactful—and as debated—as the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction. Since the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), many families in high-tax
- [What Are You Really Quitting To Chase?](https://savingtoinvest.com/what-are-you-really-quitting-to-chase/) - There’s a classic story about a fisherman and a businessman. The businessman is on vacation and sees a fisherman relaxing on his boat. The businessman asks why the fisherman doesn’t stay out longer to catch more fish. The fisherman says he catches enough to feed his family. The businessman, a hard-charging type, lays out a
- [The End of an Era: What Amazon's New Prime Sharing Rules Mean for Your Finances](https://savingtoinvest.com/the-end-of-an-era-what-amazons-new-prime-sharing-rules-mean-for-your-finances/) - For years, many of us have enjoyed the financial perk of sharing our Amazon Prime membership. Whether it was with a college-aged child, a sibling, or a close friend who lived far away, the "Prime Invitee Program" was a way to stretch your household budget by sharing a valuable subscription. It was a simple and
- [Navigating the Alternative Minimum Tax: A Guide to the 2026 Updates](https://savingtoinvest.com/a-return-to-complexity-the-alternative-minimum-tax-in-2026/) - For a number of years, the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) has been a non-factor for most American taxpayers. The passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) in 2017 raised the exemption amounts and income thresholds so high that only a small fraction of individuals were subject to this parallel tax. But, as we
- [2026 Tax Season Preview: A Complete Guide to Key Filing Dates and Deadlines](https://savingtoinvest.com/2026-tax-season-preview-a-complete-guide-to-key-filing-dates-and-deadlines/) - While the official start date can vary slightly each year, the IRS typically begins accepting and processing individual tax returns in late January 2026. This is the green light for you to submit your tax return electronically. Even if you've been working on your taxes since the new year started, you can't officially file until
- [Buying a Home in the Current Real Estate Market - How Much House Can I Afford?](https://savingtoinvest.com/buying-home-in-current-real-estate/) - Before pulling the trigger on buying your house, you need to consider the case for buying now versus waiting for conditions to improve. In today's housing market, which is characterized by a "locked-in" effect where many existing homeowners with low mortgage rates are reluctant to sell, there is a strong case for either side of
- [The Real Story Behind Your Zillow and Redfin Home Estimates](https://savingtoinvest.com/the-real-story-behind-your-zillow-and-redfin-home-estimates/) - In the world of personal finance, few assets feel as significant as your home. For many, it's not just a place to live; it's a long-term investment and the biggest number on their balance sheet. So, when it comes to understanding its value, it's easy to get fixated on two famous numbers: the Zillow Zestimate
- [Are You A "Job Hugger"? 10 Signs It's Time To Re-evaluate Your Career](https://savingtoinvest.com/are-you-a-job-hugger-10-signs-its-time-to-re-evaluate-your-career/) - The world of work is always changing. For years, the buzzword was "job hopping" — the idea of frequently changing roles to climb the corporate ladder and increase your salary. But in an era of economic uncertainty, a new trend has emerged: job hugging. This isn't about loyalty to a great company; it's about clinging
- [Protecting your Job in Turbulent Times](https://savingtoinvest.com/protecting-your-job-in-turbulent/) - With a general slowing of the economy it is at times like this we need to most careful of protecting our financial livelihood, which for most people is derived from their jobs. Positions that seemed safe just a few months ago are at risk due to company collapses and corporate cutbacks. Here are three effective
- [A $967 "Bonus" Payment? Understanding the Social Security Calendar](https://savingtoinvest.com/a-967-bonus-payment-understanding-the-social-security-calendar/) - You may have seen headlines about a "bonus" Social Security payment of $967 being sent out to recipients. The idea of an extra check can be exciting, especially in today's economy where every dollar counts. But before you start spending that "bonus," it's crucial to understand what's really happening. The truth is, there's no bonus
- [How to Make Big Financial Changes With Small, Sustainable Steps](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-to-make-big-financial-changes-with-small-sustainable-steps/) - We've all been there: January 1st rolls around, and you declare, "This is the year I'll get my finances in order!" You decide you're going to pay off all your debt, save 50% of your income, and never eat out again. For a few weeks, you're a superhero. You pack your lunch religiously, track every
- [A Firing from the White House: What the Lisa Cook Case Means for Your Job Security](https://savingtoinvest.com/a-firing-from-the-white-house-what-the-lisa-cook-case-means-for-your-job-security/) - The recent news that President Donald Trump attempted to fire Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook has put a spotlight on a complex and often misunderstood area of employment law. While the specifics of this high-profile case are unique to a federal official, they raise a critical question for every American worker: Can my boss fire
- [Don't Move the Couch, Kid: A Dad's Guide to Saving Money on Your First Apartment](https://savingtoinvest.com/dont-move-the-couch-kid-a-dads-guide-to-saving-money-on-your-first-apartment/) - The call came in just a few weeks ago. My son, home for the summer after his freshman year, was bubbling with excitement. "Dad, I found a place! Me and a couple of guys from the dorm are getting an apartment next year." I’m happy for him, really. It’s a rite of passage, a big
- [How New U.S. Tariffs on International Mail Could Impact Your Wallet](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-new-u-s-tariffs-on-international-mail-could-impact-your-wallet/) - Have you ever ordered something from an overseas retailer and been surprised at how quickly and cheaply it arrived? For years, a trade rule known as the "de minimis" exemption made it possible for millions of low-cost packages to enter the U.S. duty-free. This rule, which once applied to a measly $1 import, was eventually
- [How AI Is Reshaping Your Financial Life: A Look at AI-Powered Personal Finance](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-ai-is-reshaping-your-financial-life-a-look-at-ai-powered-personal-finance/) - Remember when "personal finance" meant a clunky spreadsheet and a stack of paper bills on your desk? It's hard to believe how much has changed. Today, our financial lives are being transformed by a powerful and increasingly present force: Artificial Intelligence (AI). From budgeting to investing to tackling debt, AI-powered tools are moving beyond simple
- [Worried about your tax refund? Get the latest updates on processing times, filing dates, and tips to avoid delays](https://savingtoinvest.com/extended-tax-refund-delays-and-expected-irs-processing-schedule-for-returns-with-exceptions/) - The IRS says that most refunds will be paid within 21 days, but many tax filers are finding out (yet again) that it could take much longer, despite filing early and getting their return accepted by the IRS. Waiting weeks, months or even a whole tax season for IRS updates has not been uncommon for
- [$23 Minimum Food Stamp SNAP Benefit Unchanged For Many Seniors in 2025-2026](https://savingtoinvest.com/seniors-and-veterans-surviving-on-23-minimum-food-stamp-snap-benefit/) - With the end of the pandemic food stamp program (SNAP) boost, many single and dual person households are now only getting a measly $23 in monthly benefits! This minimum food stamp amount did not change in the latest SNAP monthly allotment updates published by the USDA. It also looks like this won't change in 2025.
- [Understanding Increased Standard Deduction Updates And Impact on Your Paycheck and Tax Refund in 2025 and 2026](https://savingtoinvest.com/larger-paychecks-in-2022-with-higher-tax-brackets-and-larger-standard-deduction/) - [Updated with IRS Adjustments and Trump Tax Bill] Per the federal tax code the IRS is required to ad­just dozens of tax related items for in­fla­tion on an annual basis. Given the persistently high levels inflation as evidenced in the recent COLA increases, the IRS has again announced significant increases to federal tax bracket ranges
- [Are ICE Agent Bonuses of up To $50,000 Driving Arrests and What Other Incentives are in Place?](https://savingtoinvest.com/are-ice-agent-bonuses-of-up-to-50000-driving-arrests-and-what-other-incentives-are-in-place/) - In particular a recent article doing the rounds covered a video taken of ICE agents shows them bragging about a $30,000 bonus for meeting arrest targets. There has been a lot of news lately of ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) agents detaining, brutally in many cases, "undocumented" immigrants. Whatever your view on this topic, it
- [2026 GS Pay Raise Not Looking Likely For Federal Employees](https://savingtoinvest.com/2026-gs-pay-raise-outlook-not-looking-likely-federal-employees/) - Federal employees are facing growing uncertainty regarding the 2026 General Schedule (GS) pay raise due to various political and economic factors. While the official decision is still months away, recent signals from the Executive Branch (Trump administration) and ongoing economic discussions point to a heightened likelihood of a significant pay freeze, or at best, a
- [Immigrant Application Fees Skyrocket Under Trump’s OBBB in 2025 and 2026](https://savingtoinvest.com/immigrant-application-fees-skyrocket-under-trumps-obbb-in-2025-and-2026/) - When people talk about immigration reform, the conversation usually drifts toward border walls, asylum policies, or green card caps. But one of the most consequential changes in Trump’s newly passed One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) is something less visible — yet just as impactful: immigration application fees. Yes, you read that right. The cost to
- [Trump Accounts Creating a Generation of Savers with the $1,000 American Baby Bonus](https://savingtoinvest.com/trump-accounts-creating-a-generation-of-savers-with-the-1000-american-baby-bonus/) - The landscape of personal finance for future generations just saw a significant, novel addition with the signing of the "One Big Beautiful Bill" (BBB) into law by President Donald J. Trump on Independence Day. While the BBB encompasses sweeping tax reform, a standout provision — and one that has garnered considerable attention — is the
- [10 Red Flags That Your Job is on the AI Chopping Block](https://savingtoinvest.com/10-red-flags-that-your-job-on-the-ai-chopping-block/) - Just last week, I was chatting with my friend Sarah. She's a brilliant junior paralegal, always buried in legal documents. She mentioned how her firm just invested in this new AI software that can review thousands of contracts in minutes, identify key clauses, and even draft initial summaries. Sarah, usually so bubbly, looked a little...
- [My Co-worker is an AI Agent - Navigating the Rise of AI Coworkers](https://savingtoinvest.com/agentic-ai-in-the-workplace-navigating-the-rise-of-ai-coworkers/) - Explore the integration of Agentic AI into the modern workplace. Discover how AI coworkers are transforming efficiency, the evolving skills needed for human-AI collaboration, and how to prepare for the future of work.
- [Trump Tariffs Spark Stock Market Crash: What Investors Need to Know](https://savingtoinvest.com/trump-tariffs-spark-stock-market-crash-what-investors-need-to-know/) - Investors around the world are facing huge ups and downs. Trump's trade moves are shaking the market's and the imposition of Trump Tariffs has directly caused the Stock Market Crash. But, the truth is more complicated. It involves policy, global economics, and how people feel about investing. We explore how tariffs have made the market more unstable. They've
- [Are You Eligible For a Charitable Tax Deduction Worth Up to $2000?](https://savingtoinvest.com/are-you-eligible-for-a-charitable-tax-deduction-worth-up-to-2000/) - We all want to make a difference, right? Whether it's supporting a local animal shelter, contributing to a cause that's helping kids, or just giving a few bucks to that friendly bell-ringer outside the grocery store, being generous feels good. But what if I told you that your good deeds could also offer a nice
- [How The Debt Celling Debate May Be Delaying Your Tax Refund Payment](https://savingtoinvest.com/millions-continue-to-wait-for-tax-returns-and-refunds-to-be-processed/) - Despite the IRS saying they had a much smoother and more efficient tax season (see stats below), like millions of others I am still waiting for my tax return to be processed and see my refund banked. Initially my refund was delayed beyond the standard 21 day processing timeline due to additional return (identity) reviews.
- [Will Trump's Tariffs Empty Your Wallet? Here's What You Need to Know](https://savingtoinvest.com/will-trumps-tariffs-empty-your-wallet-heres-what-you-need-to-know/) - Donald Trump's tariffs changed the economic scene, and we're still feeling it now. He used a national emergency to enforce these policies unilaterally without Congress' approval. The tariffs were meant to protect American industries and counter alleged unfair trade practices by partners. But because they are essentially an import tax tariffs will likely ending up making things more expensive for most Americans. You might be wondering, "Is this going to hit my wallet hard?" So let's discuss that in this article, including a look at which products might get pricier, whether you should be filling
- [Trump Global Tariffs Leading to a Self-Induced Recession](https://savingtoinvest.com/trumps-global-tariffs-leading-to-a-self-induced-recession/) - Donald Trump put us in the mess. There is no two ways around this. This was his baby and he wanted them in place. No one else did and he used a "national emergency" executive order to unilaterally get tariffs in place. The recent implementation of sweeping global tariffs has sparked widespread concern among economists,
- [The Potential Impact of Food Stamp Cuts: What It Means for American Families](https://savingtoinvest.com/the-potential-impact-of-food-stamp-cuts-what-it-means-for-american-families/) - The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps, is a lifeline for millions of American families. However, with the looming possibility of federal budget cuts, concerns are growing about how potential reductions in benefits could impact low-income households. For many families, food stamps provide the financial relief needed to afford essential groceries.
- [Should You Skip Filing an IRS Tax Return? why it's important to file your income taxes before tax day](https://savingtoinvest.com/should-you-skip-filing-a-tax-return-heres-why-thats-a-costly-mistake/) - With reports of IRS budget cuts and layoffs circulating, some taxpayers are questioning whether they should even bother filing a tax return this year. There’s a growing belief that the IRS is too underfunded and understaffed to chase down millions of unfiled returns. However, skipping your tax return can lead to serious financial and legal
- [IRS Tax Filing Extension Deadline - When Will I Get My Refund or What If Owe The IRS More Money](https://savingtoinvest.com/tax-deadline-tips-filing-late-requesting-an-extension-installment-plans-and-refund-status/) - The date for filing a tax return filing extension for the current tax season is April 15th. Maine and Massachusetts have 2 extra days due to state holidays. Not filing for an extension or not paying your tax liability could mean some stiff penalties. Given the ongoing IRS processing delays, those filing extensions and expecting
- [Missed the Tax Deadline - Should You File a Return or File an Extension?](https://savingtoinvest.com/should-you-file-a-tax-return-or-file-a-tax-extension/) - For the majority of tax filers mid-April is the deadline to file their tax return. Even if you don't have enough money to pay your entire tax liability you must take action. Inside your head, you scream, "I need more time!" But before you stress out realize that the IRS offers a 6-month tax filing deadline
- [Do You Need to File a BOI Report for Your LLC? The Latest Treasury Update](https://savingtoinvest.com/do-you-need-to-file-a-boi-report-for-your-llc-the-latest-treasury-update/) - If you own an LLC, you’ve probably heard about the Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting requirement under the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA). This new rule, which took effect on January 1, 2024, requires many businesses to disclose their beneficial owners to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). But with lawsuits, government backtracking, and new Treasury
- [Is a Recession Coming in 2025? Signs to Look For and How to Prepare](https://savingtoinvest.com/will-there-be-a-recession-signs-to-look-for-and-how-to-prepare/) - Are we headed for a recession or we are already in one? That's the question many people asking nowadays. Even if your financial situation is relatively stable today, its important to pay attention to the economic headwinds. While we can all hope for the best, we should plan and prepare for the worst. Recessions are
- [Navigating the Coming White-Collar Recession: How to Find a Job in a Tough Market](https://savingtoinvest.com/navigating-the-coming-white-collar-recession-how-to-find-a-job-in-a-tough-market/) - The white-collar economic recession presents challenges with layoffs. By being proactive and adaptable you can navigate this tough market and new jobs.
- [Preparing For Layoffs: Steps to Take Ahead of Time And What To Do First](https://savingtoinvest.com/tips-on-preparing-for-potential-job/) - With a slowing economy, government and private sector reductions in force, and likely recession around the corner you may get into work one of these days and hear that your employer needs to cut costs and your position has been made redundant. Are you prepared for this scenario and its likely impacts on your financial
- [Managing Across the Risk Spectrum: Choosing Portfolio Investments Based on Age and Market Conditions](https://savingtoinvest.com/choosing-right-investment-portfolio/) - While reviewing and updating my 401K allocations at Fidelity, I noticed this relatively common graphic showing portfolio mixes (allocations) based on an investor's risk profile. Generally speaking most financial advisers and traditional market wisdom tell you that your portfolio allocation should be based on your age, which determines the duration of your investment. The younger
- [Will there Be a 2025 DOGE Trump Stimulus Dividend Check - Latest News and Updates](https://savingtoinvest.com/will-there-be-a-2025-doge-trump-stimulus-dividend-check-latest-news-and-updates/) - In a recent social media exchange, tech billionaire Elon Musk hinted at a potential plan that has stirred up significant buzz—the so-called "DOGE Dividend." This concept involves issuing checks of up to $8,000 to American taxpayers by allocating 20% of Dogecoin’s (DOGE) projected federal savings to taxpaying households. Here’s what we know so far and
- [Predicting Your 2025 Tax Refund: What to Expect, How to Maximize](https://savingtoinvest.com/predicting-your-2024-tax-refund-what-to-expect-how-to-maximize/) - Filing your taxes isn't exactly the highlight of anyone's year, but the potential for a sizable refund can sweeten the deal. Yet, predicting the average tax refund for is like gazing into a financial crystal ball – filled with uncertainties and shifting factors. Here's what we know so far, along with strategies to boost your
- [2025 Tax Refund Release Dates and IRS Payment Updates](https://savingtoinvest.com/tax-refund-release-and-confirmed-payment-dates/) - The tax season heat is on, and good news! The IRS is releasing refunds sooner than expected for many filers. Want to know exactly when your money is arriving? Then see the table below and what is being reported online. While refunds held by the PATH freeze are now being paid, many taxpayers are seeing
- [Does this transcript update mean I Get my DDD? 2025 PATH Refund Status and Payment Release Dates](https://savingtoinvest.com/when-will-2025-path-act-refunds-be-released-and-expected-payment-dates/) - Tax filers claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) who file early in January or February may face unexpected delays or holds on their refunds due to the PATH Act 2025 PATH refunds now being processed The good news is that PATH held refunds are now being processed and
- [Why Trump’s Tariffs Will Hit the Middle Class Harder and Make the Rich Richer](https://savingtoinvest.com/why-trumps-tariffs-will-hit-the-middle-class-and-make-the-rich-richer/) - If you’ve been eyeing a new fridge or washer, brace yourself—prices are about to go up. Former President Donald Trump has proposed a 25% tariff increase, and while that might sound like a strategic move to boost American jobs, the reality is much harsher for the average consumer—especially middle- and lower-income families. How Trump’s Tariffs
- [5 Steps to Take Now in Preparation for Higher Inflation in The Coming Year](https://savingtoinvest.com/5-steps-to-take-now-in-preparation-for/) - There is an important debate brewing around inflation in terms of its rise and sustainability. Many believe we are headed to significantly higher inflation in the coming months as Trump cuts taxes and imposes tariffs. Ultimately, whether we see inflation as a significant or permanent risk is a decision we each must make for ourselves.
- [What's Ahead for the US economy in the Next 4 years](https://savingtoinvest.com/whats-ahead-for-the-us-economy-in-the-next-4-years-2017-to-2020/) - What a whirlwind the United States Presidential Election was! It sparked record interest in the Presidential Debates and polls predicted the highest turnout rate of voters in the history of our Presidential Elections. Trump was the third Presidential candidate in US history to win the election after losing the vote in his own home
- [Taxes and my Paycheck Withholdings](https://savingtoinvest.com/taxes-and-my-paycheck/) - When I moved here a long time ago one of the financial mysteries for me was the taxes on my paycheck. This included what would be deducted from my pay check and more importantly how much should I withhold to meet my tax obligations. I learned the importance of understanding this the hard way with
- [Teaching Your Kids How to Care For Money and Manage Their Personal Finances](https://savingtoinvest.com/teaching-your-kids-how-to-care-for-their-cash-and-managing-their-personal-finances/) - As adults, we've seen what a lack of financial knowledge does to managing our finances. That's why we need to teach our kids early on how to care for money, so they are less likely to make the financial mistakes that we did. If you don't talk about money, lessons learned and how to manage
- [Embrace Fear For Financial Freedom and Riches](https://savingtoinvest.com/embrace-fear-for-financial-freedom/) - FEAR is one of the most powerful forces in investing, as it is in life. One of the biggest universal fears is that of losing money, particularly when it can be so tough to earn in the first place. Yet those who fail to embrace fear run the risk of never being financially free. Fear
- [How To Get Your Children Interested in Saving with These Investing Lessons](https://savingtoinvest.com/investing-lessons-for-young/) - Teaching your children a few simple lessons about saving and investing can start them off in the right direction toward a more secure financial future.
- [What Do Stock Buybacks Mean For a Company's Share Price](https://savingtoinvest.com/what-do-stock-buybacks-mean-for-a-company-and-its-share-price/) - What Do Stock Buybacks Mean For a Company and Its Share Price. Chances are good that a stock buyback is going to be good for your portfolio.
- [How much is the Trump-Musk DOGE Deferred Resignation Buyout Program for Federal employees worth based on GS Pay scale?](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-much-is-the-trump-musk-doge-deferred-resignation-severance-for-federal-employees-worth-based-on-gs-pay-scale/) - As has been widely reported, Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), under the broader agenda of President Trump’s administration, has introduced a buy-out package aimed at reducing the federal workforce. The scale and speed of this “deferred resignation” offer has sparked significant debate across impacted groups, the media and politicians. Understanding the Offer The
- [Trump's Executive Order Could Delay Tax refunds and Make it Harder to Reach a Live IRS Agent in 2025 – And What You Can Do About It](https://savingtoinvest.com/why-its-going-to-be-harder-to-reach-a-live-irs-agent-in-2025-and-what-you-can-do-about-it/) - If you've ever tried to call the IRS for help with your tax refund or processing status, you know how challenging it can be to get a live agent on the line. Unfortunately, that struggle is expected to intensify this year due to the federal hiring freeze mandated under the Trump administration via executive order.
- [Tax Refund Approved + Scheduled! Check 846 Status & IRS Updates](https://savingtoinvest.com/is-your-2024-tax-refund-on-the-way-check-irs-refund-tracker-for-status-and-your-transcript-for-code-846/) - Tax season brings questions, anxieties, and a constant vigil over tax transcripts and the IRS' Where's My Refund (WMR) tool. However its important to realize that your tax transcript and the WMR or IRS2Go mobile app for checking you refund status are two different applications. But they are interlinked when it comes to IRS processing
- [21 Signs You are Losing Interest in Your Job](https://savingtoinvest.com/21-signs-that-you-are-losing-interest/) - At some point, we’ve all hit that wall—those moments when our job or career feels more like a chore than a passion. And now, in a post-pandemic YOLO world, this feeling can be stronger than ever. As people rethink their work-life balance, a record number are ditching the traditional 9-to-5 grind in search of something
- [Understanding IRS Tax Transcript Codes 290 and 291 - Additional Tax Assessed or Refund Adjustment](https://savingtoinvest.com/irs-tax-transcript-code-290-and-291-additional-tax-assessed-and-update-or-return-processing-and-refund-payment/) - Folks who have been waiting for a long time on their tax return processing and refund status may see transaction code 290 and 291 on their (free) IRS tax transcript once processing is moved forward by the IRS. Per the screenshot below, transaction code 290 will generally be accompanied by the line, "Additional tax assessed,"
- [Does IRS Tax Transcript Show My Refund Processing and Direct Deposit Date And What Does N/A Mean](https://savingtoinvest.com/will-ordering-an-irs-tax-transcript-help-me-find-out-when-ill-get-my-refund/) - Reviewing their free IRS account tax transcript is a technique a lot of folks attempt to use to get an update on their tax return processing and refund status; particularly if they are not getting information (or see no bars) from the standard WMR tool or IRS2Go refund status tracker app. While the official line
- [Will Tax Refunds Be Smaller in 2025 With No Stimulus Checks Or Expanded Tax Credits?](https://savingtoinvest.com/irs-average-tax-refund/) - The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) generally receives over 150 million individual returns over the tax season with more than 95% of those returns filed electronically and over 80% of those returns resulting in refunds. Over the last few years, thanks to plenty of pandemic related stimulus payments and funding for expanded tax credits, the average
- [Trump Rescinds Executive Order to Pause Financial Aid Programs - SNAP, Social Security, Student Aid and Small Business Loans](https://savingtoinvest.com/trump-issues-executive-order-to-pause-financial-aid-programs-will-snap-social-security-and-federal-loan-payments-stop/) - If you rely on federal benefit programs, student aid, or small business grants, you may have been caught off guard by the recent turmoil surrounding the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) memorandum to freeze federal spending (see below). While the freeze has now been temporarily rescinded, the situation raises serious concerns about financial stability
- [State Unemployment Phone Numbers and Getting in Touch With a Live Agent](https://savingtoinvest.com/state-unemployment-numbers-and-getting-in-touch-with-a-live-agent-for-help-with-your-ui-claim/) - One thing many readers have been complaining about when it comes to getting help or information on their pending Unemployment Insurance (UI) payment or retroactive benefits claim is finding a number to call so that they can get through to someone they can speak to. This has been acutely felt with the recently ended unemployment
- [IRS Tax Transcript For Adjusted Amended Returns With No Refund or Offsets Delaying Payment](https://savingtoinvest.com/irs-tax-transcript-reviews-for-adjusted-amended-returns-with-no-refund-or-offsets-delaying-payment/) - I see many readers on this site and across various social media channels post questions around their tax transcript in hope of getting help or an answer on their adjusted/amended tax return and/or to find out more with what is happening with their refund. In this article I'll summarize some of these questions and responses
- [End of Expanded Earned Income And Child Tax Credit Means Smaller Refunds For Many Families](https://savingtoinvest.com/2021-earned-income-credit-limit-and-child-tax-credit-increase-updates/) - With no further federal funding, several popular family and dependent tax credits that were expanded during the pandemic (see details in earlier updated below) have returned to pre-pandemic levels. This means many families and individuals will see a smaller refund, all else being equal, in the year ahead when filing their returns. Specifically the following
- [Income Lookback Rule no Longer Available For Tax Filings](https://savingtoinvest.com/lookback-rule-no-longer-available-for-2022-2023-tax-filing-season/) - During the COVID pandemic years of 2020 and 2021, the American Rescue Plan (ARPA) included legislation that provided a “lookback” rule that allowed tax filers to use prior year income levels to calculate qualification for many of the expanded tax credits and stimulus programs. This was done to allow the millions of low to moderate
- [2025 Refund Cycle Chart For 2024 IRS Tax Returns](https://savingtoinvest.com/2025-refund-cycle-chart-for-2024-irs-tax-returns/) - The chart below shows the expected or likely date for when you could see your federal refund payment from the IRS. Note: The estimated IRS refund payment dates in the chart below should not be construed as official IRS payment dates. To get the exact date of your refund payment check the IRS’ Where is My Refund
- [Filled My Taxes Wrong or Got Another W2 or 1099 - How to Fix Post-Filing Issues](https://savingtoinvest.com/filled-my-taxes-wrong-or-got-another-w2-or-1099-how-to-fix-post-filing-issues/) - A lot of people are eager to file early in hopes of getting their tax refund sooner, but also find that after filing they may have missed some key data or gotten additional information late, like a Employer W2 or 1099-X form - that is required to be reported in their tax return. This creates
- [Will Additional 60 day IRS Review Letters Impact My Tax Refund - How to Get Help](https://savingtoinvest.com/i-got-a-need-an-additional-60-day-review-letter-from-the-irs/) - Ongoing tax return processing delays and additional reviews mean many tax filers are getting multiple letters from the IRS, including ones stating that their tax return (and refund payment) will be further delayed for up to an additional 60 days. In this article I'll go through some reasons behind the 60-day notice and what you
- [My Transcript Says N/A What Does That Mean - How Do I Get Information About My 2025 Refund Payment](https://savingtoinvest.com/my-transcript-says-n-a-what-does-that-mean-how-do-i-get-information-about-my-refund/) - Reviewing their IRS account tax transcript is a technique a lot of folks attempt to use to get an update on their tax return processing and refund status; particularly if they are not getting information (or see no bars) from the standard WMR tool or IRS2Go refund status tracker app. However, many tax filers have
- [Still Waiting For My Refund as Tax Return Is NOT Processed - What Now?](https://savingtoinvest.com/your-tax-return-is-not-processed/) - Millions of tax filers are anxiously waiting for their tax return to be processed and refund to be paid. So it can be disappointing and stressful to see the following message when checking in regularly at the IRS Refund Status page and see the message, "Your tax return has not yet been processed." Which means
- [Why Is My Tax Refund Still Processing in 2025](https://savingtoinvest.com/still-waiting-for-last-years-irs-tax-refund-as-past-year-tax-returns-delayed-due-to-manual-processing/) - Seeing a lot of comments from filers this year saying that not only have then not gotten their refund payments but are still waiting for their tax refund for returns filed last year! Why the Ongoing Delay in Processing Returns and Paying Refunds? The main reason for this is that the IRS has millions of
- [People NOW Seeing Their Tax Refunds in 2025 Plus Tips on What to do if Your Refund Has Not Yet Been Received](https://savingtoinvest.com/people-seeing-tax-returns-and-refunds-being-processed-and-accepted/) - The IRS has announced that it is now processing tax returns for all taxpayers, including those who filed a return including those who claimed the EITC/ACTC. Unlike prior years, processing seems to be much smoother this year. The number of returns processed by the I.R.S. was down about 10 percent from a year earlier, according
- [Why Did My Refund Go Down After The IRS Adjusted My Tax Return](https://savingtoinvest.com/irs-made-changes-to-your-tax-return-that-changed-the-amount-of-your-refund/) - Many tax payers are seeing the following startling messages on WMR or IRS2Go when they go to check the status of their refund. Naturally their reaction is one of shock, followed by frustration and anger. These notifications are to inform tax filers about adjustments the IRS automatically made that either reduced or eliminated their entire
- [The Profile of a Rich American Today](https://savingtoinvest.com/the-profile-of-a-well-to-do-or-rich-american/) - A lot of people say "richer" Americans are an eccentric lot. But the fact is that, your co-worker or neighbor down the road is probably more likely to better fit the "well-to-do" or upper class profile than someone like Donald Trump. Based on information from the Census and IRS data, the tax policy center put
- [2024-2025 Tax Season Refund News & Updates](https://savingtoinvest.com/2024-tax-season-refund-news-updates/) - With tax season well underway millions of Americans are filing their returns, with many expecting a juicy refund. Last year the average refund was over $3,100 but is expected to be lower this year with fewer tax credits and stimulus payments available to most. If you are waiting for your refund it should be processed
- [2024 vs. 2025 Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) Income Exemption Phase-out Amounts](https://savingtoinvest.com/alternative-minimum-tax-amt-and-exemption-amounts/) - Following enactment of the American Tax Relief Act (ATRA) a few years ago, the annual "AMT patch" legislation that Congress had to pass every year to ensure more people were not snagged by the Alternative Minimum tax is now no longer required. Instead the AMT exemption and associated thresholds based on filing status are now
- [American Opportunity Tax Credit 2025 For Students: Eligibility, Income Limits, and Phase-out Details](https://savingtoinvest.com/american-opportunity-tax-credit-extension-for-2011-and-2012-eligiblity-income-and-phase-out-limits/) - The AOTC allows parents and students to receive a tax credit of up to $2,500 for qualified undergraduate college expenses, based on certain income limits. The AOTC replaced the smaller Hope credit a few years ago as part of bills passed under the Obama administration (see section below for origin). The expanded credit will benefit
- [Why has my car insurance gone up so much? How to Find and Lower the Cost of Your Auto Insurance in 2025](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-to-find-and-lower-cost-of-your-auto/) - I recently got my auto insurance renewal policy and was shocked when I saw it was more than double my prior renewal amount. This prompted me to look at factors which drove this increase - market driven or related to my specific situation - and to see if there is anything I could do find
- [Trump’s Potential Tax Changes in 2025: What They Could Mean for Your Bottom Line](https://savingtoinvest.com/trumps-potential-tax-changes-in-2025-what-they-could-mean-for-your-bottom-line/) - Its a new year and new administration. So let’s talk taxes—everyone’s favorite topic, right? 😉 As we dive into 2025, there’s a lot of chatter about what Trump’s next term could mean for our wallets. Whether you’re all about maximizing your tax refund or just trying to figure out how these changes might impact your
- [When Do IRS2Go, WMR and Tax Transcripts Refresh With 2025 Refund Status And Direct Deposit Date](https://savingtoinvest.com/when-does-the-irs-update-my-refund-status-on-wmr-irs2go-and-tax-return-details-on-my-transcript/) - With millions of Americans tax filers anxiously waiting for their refund, which can be the largest single payment of the year for many, it is not uncommon to hear frustration with the various IRS systems designed to provide the latest updates on tax processing and refund payments. The official Where is My Refund (WMR) site
- [If i Bought a Car Can I Claim it On My Taxes? Sales Tax Section 179 Deduction](https://savingtoinvest.com/can-i-claim-the-sales-tax-on-my-new-or-used-car-purchase/) - Many people overlook possible tax deductions when they file their income tax returns. One of the many deductions that people miss is the sales tax that was paid on a new or used car. This is a tricky deduction, however. You can claim sales tax paid or state income tax withheld, but not both on your income
- [Quarterly Estimated Tax Payments and IRS Installment Due Dates](https://savingtoinvest.com/quarterly-estimated-tax-payments-and-installment-due-dates-2011-and-2012-schedules/) - Estimated taxes normally have to paid if you do not withhold taxes via your employer or if the amount of income tax being withheld from your salary, pension, vendor payments or other income is insufficient. Estimated taxes are generally paid by small business', self-employed or gig workers with variable sources of income/expenses or those that
- [Refund Direct Deposit Date (DDD) Earlier Than Expected? 2024 IRS Direct Deposit Timings, Payment Delays and Fixing Incorrect Bank Information](https://savingtoinvest.com/when-will-my-tax-refund-be-release-and-deposited-into-my-bank-account/) - Despite ongoing processing delays the IRS is continuing to process and pay tax refunds. However there are still a lot of folks seeing delays in getting their refund payment despite the Where is My Refund (WMR) IRS tool showing that the return has been approved (2 bars) and/or refund sent (3 bars) 2024 Tax season Direct
- [2024 IRS Tax Refund Calendar and Direct Deposit Dates](https://savingtoinvest.com/irs-tax-refund-calendar-2023-and-direct-deposit-dates/) - It's the peak processing time of tax season now that the PATH act (for EITC and ACTC returns) has lifted and most tax filers have gotten the required documents to file their return. You can see the estimated IRS refund schedule/calendar below for the next 4 months, which I will update on a regular basis. However as discussed
- [What Did My Tax Return and Refund Change After Filing?](https://savingtoinvest.com/we-have-received-your-tax-return-and-it-is-being-processed-2023-irs-refund-payment-delay/) - Like many tax payers I continue to check the status of my IRS refund payment and face the rather unhelpful status message below that my return is still being processed! After several weeks of checking daily this message gets old, fast. I wrote about the earlier delays with getting my refund processing started due to
- [Navigating US Taxes When You Have Foreign Income](https://savingtoinvest.com/us-taxes-on-foreign-income-filing-requirements-exclusions-and-deadlines/) - Living abroad? Great! But remember, your tax obligations don't vanish. Uncle Sam still wants his cut, regardless of where you earn your income. This post outlines the key changes the IRS has made for reporting foreign income, helping you avoid those "pretty stiff penalties" they mentioned. Reporting Your Worldwide Income: As a US citizen or
- [Get Your Tax Refund Money Now!](https://savingtoinvest.com/get-your-tax-refund-money-now/) - A lot of people look forward to their tax refund at the end of the year. But I know that if I get a big refund, it usually means I haven't kept up with my paycheck withholding. Why should I wait until next year to get my hands on money that is already mine? If
- [2024 Electric Vehicle Tax Credit - Extending the EV Clean Car Rebate For New and Used Autos](https://savingtoinvest.com/extending-the-electric-vehicle-tax-credit-for-new-and-used-cars/) - Under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), the EV Tax Credit was extended for several more years. It will also be expanded to cover both new and used cars. The original EV tax credit, known as the plug-in electric vehicle credit, has been rebranded to the Clean Vehicle Credit (CVC) under the IRA bill and covers
- [Don’t wait on hold for a Live Agent when calling the IRS - Go Online For Assistance](https://savingtoinvest.com/dont-wait-on-hold-for-a-live-agent-when-calling-the-irs-go-online-for-assistance/) - When it comes to dealing with taxes, one of the common stressors is the idea of reaching out to the IRS to get a live agent. The long wait times, endless phone menus, and the anticipation of talking to a representative can be daunting. This has been widely covered in the news and social media.
- [Effectively using freed up Daycare dollars](https://savingtoinvest.com/invest-childcare-money-in-your-childs/) - The cost of daycare for preschool age children can be one of the most significant expenses parents face. According to the National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies, a family with a 4 year old child could pay upwards of $10,000 a year for center-based child care. I paid close to $15,000 a
- [Maximum 401K Contribution Limits](https://savingtoinvest.com/maximum-401k-contribution-limits-up-to-54000-in-2017-and-likely-higher-in-2018/) - [Updated with latest IRS 401k limits] The IRS has now released its latest annual 401k limits. The table below shows what the contribution limit trends have trended over the last few years at the individual/employee level. [table id=20 /] Click here for the full set of 401K, Roth IRA and Traditional IRA Contribution Limits Employer Contribution
- [Mid-Year Tax Moves You Can Make Now](https://savingtoinvest.com/mid-year-tax-moves-you-can-make-now/) - With more than half the year in the rear view mirror, it's time to start thinking about your potential annual tax liability and actions you can take to legally minimize what you will have pay the IRS. Here then are some easy to action mid-year tax moves that you should have on your radar now, rather than waiting till December 31st. Review or finish
- [Are Unemployment Benefit Payments Taxable at a State and Federal Level (1099-G) Plus Withholding To Reduce Taxes Due](https://savingtoinvest.com/are-unemployment-benefit-payments-taxable-at-a-state-and-federal-level-1099-g-forms-how-much-do-i-have-to-pay-based-on-my-withholding/) - The past few years were unique and difficult year for many reasons. One group in particular was hit hard - American workers, especially those who lost their jobs directly or indirectly due to COVID. Fortunately the government acted and put in several enhanced benefit programs to provide unemployment benefits and support this group of Americans.
- [Early Birds Get the...Refund? IRS Hub Testing Kicks Off Two Weeks Ahead of Official Filing Season](https://savingtoinvest.com/early-birds-get-the-refund-irs-hub-testing-kicks-off-two-weeks-ahead-of-official-filing-season/) - It's that time of year again: tax season has officially arrived, with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) opening its electronic filing system for early filers on January 16th, 2024. This year, however, there's a twist – the IRS has kicked off its "hub testing" phase two weeks ahead of the official January 29th processing date.
- [2024 Tax Season Calendar For 2023 Filings and IRS Refund Schedule](https://savingtoinvest.com/when-can-i-file-my-taxes-and-2023-irs-refund-schedule/) - Here are some useful articles and videos around the 2023-2024 Tax Season Calendar and corresponding estimated IRS Refund schedule The 2024 tax calendar and when taxpayers can file their federal and state tax returns (or request an extension) IRS Refund Schedule - When you can expect your refund to be paid IRS Refund Processing Timeline
- [Maximum allowable charge for disclosures Fee 2024 Increase under FCRA](https://savingtoinvest.com/maximum-allowable-charge-for-disclosures-fee-increase-under-fcra/) - For millions of Americans, credit scores play a crucial role in their financial lives, impacting everything from loan approvals to rental agreements. Accessing your credit report, the document compiling your financial history, is a crucial tool for understanding your score and ensuring its accuracy. In 2024, however, accessing this information comes with a slightly steeper
- [Do I Need to File a Tax Return? IRS Income Thresholds to File Taxes](https://savingtoinvest.com/2016-2017-federal-tax-filing-gross-income-requirements-how-much-you-have-to-make-or-earn-to-file-taxes/) - Every year I get asked about income requirements for filing taxes when publishing tax filing due dates for the upcoming tax season. While there are other factors (residency status, claiming tax credits) that also drive if you have to file taxes or not, how much you earn (gross income) is the primary driver. Gross income
- [Senior Stimulus 2024: Hope on the Horizon or Wishful Thinking?](https://savingtoinvest.com/senior-stimulus-2024-hope-on-the-horizon-or-wishful-thinking/) - For many seniors, the rising cost of living feels like a runaway roller coaster, leaving their budgets hanging on by a thread. While the idea of additional stimulus payments in 2024 offers a glimmer of hope, the question remains: will seniors be waltzing towards another financial windfall, or is this just a mirage in the
- [2024 Tax Filing Deadline - Get Your Refund and Avoid Penalties](https://savingtoinvest.com/tax-filing-deadline-get-your-refund-and-avoid-penalties/) - With the deadline for the primary part of the tax season upon us make sure you file in time to avoid penalties or submit a free extension request for an October filing date - you still need to pay any taxes due. If you have filed you hopefully have gotten your tax refund by now, or if you
- [401k, 403b, IRA Contribution and Income Limit Changes Officially Released by IRS](https://savingtoinvest.com/2011-401k-403b-ira-retirement-plan-contribution-limit-changes-from-2010-officially-released-by-irs/) - Official IRS numbers on 401k, 403b, IRA and other retirement/thrift plan contribution and income limits
- [2024 vs. 2023 Maximum IRA Contribution, Income and Deduction Limits](https://savingtoinvest.com/ira-contribution-income-and-deduction-limits-factoring-in-employer-coverage-restrictions/) - I've written a fair bit on tax-advantaged individual retirement plans, but still keep getting lots of questions on this topic. This is likely due to two main factors. One, thanks to the complexities of our tax code, it is not always easy to find current and applicable IRA information. Secondly, because you can have multiple
- [How to Reduce Your Tax Bill Liability By Lowering Your Taxable Income and Claiming More Deductions](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-to-reduce-your-tax-bill-by-lowering/) - Much to my disappointment I ended up owing taxes when I filed my tax return this year. Or said another way I had a tax liability to the IRS. While paying taxes I legally owe is not itself a bad thing, after all I did not give an interest free loan to Uncle Sam, what
- [Forward Tax Planning Through Making Smart Money Moves in 2024](https://savingtoinvest.com/tax-planning-for-2013-dealing-with-the-uncertainty-and-making-smart-money-moves/) - Being the finance wonk that I am, I rather enjoy reading some of the tax advice that the big accounting firms put out for their clients. While their target audience (based on their $250 to $500 hourly fee) is clearly higher net worth individuals, you can glean some pretty useful advice from their reports. Take
- [Emergency Extra SNAP Payments Have Ended - Latest News and Updates](https://savingtoinvest.com/emergency-snap-payments-ending-in-march-2023-get-ready-for-lower-state-allotments-and-double-hit-from-higher-social-security-benefits/) - The USDA has officially announced that SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) emergency allotments, which were implemented as a temporary increase to monthly SNAP benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic have officially ended. This means for remaining residents in states who received a USDA waiver to participate in the temporary SNAP expansion program (see list below) will
- [2024 GS Locality Pay Raise and Table for Rest of The USA](https://savingtoinvest.com/2023-gs-locality-pay-raise-and-table-for-rest-of-usa/) - Most GS employees' compensation is made up of base pay and locality pay, covering 55 geographic areas, which are based on surveys of pay levels for non-federal workers in a specific geographic area. This is to account for the different cost of living standards in different areas of the country. For areas that are not
- [2024 GS Locality Pay Raise and Table for Washington-Baltimore-Arlington Area (DC, MD,VA, WV, PA)](https://savingtoinvest.com/gs-locality-pay-raise-and-table-for-washington-baltimore-arlington-area/) - For the locality of "WASHINGTON-BALTIMORE-ARLINGTON - (DC, MD,VA, WV, PA)," (DMV area) the latest GS pay scale table is shown below, which incorporates the 4.7% GS base pay increase and locality payment adjustment of 16.82%. This brings the total 2024 pay increase for this geography to 4.99%. What is the General Schedule (GS) and Locality
- [Business Tax Account Transcripts Now Available Online in 2024](https://savingtoinvest.com/business-tax-account-transcripts-now-available-online/) - The IRS has introduced a new online tool for various types of corporations to manage their taxes in 2024. This includes partnerships and S corporation businesses, which are now eligible for an online IRS business tax account. These online accounts allow certain types of business entities to download transcripts and reduce paper based transactions. It
- [2023-2024 Standard IRS Mileage Rates For Business, Medical, Moving and Charity - Tax Deduction Rules](https://savingtoinvest.com/standard-mileage-rate-tax-irs/) - The IRS standard mileage rates used to calculate the deductible costs of operating a car (includes vans, pickups or panel trucks) for business, charitable, medical or moving purposes are shown in the table below. These are effective from Jan. 1. [table id=9/] The business mileage rate is based on an annual study of the fixed and variable costs
- [Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit Drops $6K After Pandemic Expansion Expiry](https://savingtoinvest.com/child-and-dependent-care-credit-updates-and-latest-limits/) - Like many other tax credits, the child and dependent care tax credit (CDCTC) saw a significant reduction after a pandemic induced legislative expansion. The CDCTC has now returned to a maximum credit amount of $2,100 instead of the pandemic expanded $8,000. Income thresholds and the percentage of child care expenses deductible also dropped considerably. This
- [Should we Buy This House If The Mortgage is Double our Rent?](https://savingtoinvest.com/should-we-buy-this-house-if-the-mortgage-is-double-our-rent/) - Here is a recent scenario I was discussing with a young couple who are first-time homebuyers considering a $360,000 house. They are currently renting a smaller apartment for $1,400 p/month. Key stats and pertinent points: Income: $140,000 combined, $7,800 per month after taxes Pre-approved mortgage: $400,000 House price: $360,000 Down payment: $45-50,000 Estimated monthly mortgage
- [Any Further Federal Unemployment Benefits in 2024? News and Updates](https://savingtoinvest.com/will-extra-unemployment-benefits-be-extended-in-2020-and-2021/) - With the expiry of federal enhanced unemployment benefit programs like PUA, PEUC, $300 FPUC and $100 MEUC in all states, there has been considerable chatter around what happens next and if missing or back payments are still being made. While the pandemic unemployment stimulus programs are unlikely to be resurrected given record levels of employment
- [Roth IRA Contribution Limits Based on Filing Status and Income](https://savingtoinvest.com/2013-roth-ira-contribution-limits-based-on-filing-status-and-income/) - After several years the IRS has raised Roth IRA contribution levels, along with the annually indexed income qualification levels that allow eligible contributions. This is good news for those looking for tax effective ways to manage their retirement savings. [See this article for the latest Roth IRA limits] Unlike 401(k) and Traditional IRA plans, you cannot deduct contributions
- [Am I Saving Enough in my 401K and IRA - Comparison by Age](https://savingtoinvest.com/2011-average-401k-and-ira-returns-and-2012-performance-outlook/) - 10 or so years later, I thought I would revisit how Americans (and myself) are doing with their retirements savings in 401K and IRA plans. This is particularly important as Americans age and contribution limits keep rising. Based on Fidelity's 2022 report, the average 401(k) balance is $121,700. This is up nearly $50,000 from 10
- [2024 Federal and State Minimum Wage Raises - Latest News and Updates](https://savingtoinvest.com/federal-and-state-minimum-wage-increases/) - With rising inflation many states are raising the minimum wages for workers, often above the mandated federal minimum. This is good news for lower-income workers, where the minimum wage is barely enough to survive on. Note that the federal minimum wage is currently $7.25 and remains unchanged this year. However each state also set's their
- [2024 Update on Stimulus Check & $900 grocery Benefit for Seniors, Retirees, Veterans and the Disabled](https://savingtoinvest.com/extra-250-for-social-security/) - [Latest Stimulus Check Update for Seniors] While multiple rounds of stimulus payments have been made over the last two years, many are asking if the government will make another (4th round) of payments to help folks cope with higher inflation and the rising costs of basic goods and services. $900 grocery stimulus for seniors While
- [IRS Tax Thresholds Changing in 2024](https://savingtoinvest.com/irs-tax-thresholds-changing-in-2024/) - There are several IRS (IRS) tax thresholds that will be changing in 2024. These changes are made to adjust for inflation (where mandated) and to ensure that taxpayers are paying the correct amount of taxes. The following are some of the likely changes that will take place in 2024 to key federal (IRS) tax related
- [How Much Will 2024 Social Security and SSI Increase After Record 2023 COLA Increase - Extra Monthly Payment Amount](https://savingtoinvest.com/2013-cola-increase-provides-a-1-7-raise-for-social-security-income-and-benefits-to-federal-and-military-retirees/) - [Updated for projected 2024 Increase] Soaring inflation and related Fed rate hiking actions had a silver lining for many eligible recipients in 2023, with a 8.7% increase (~$145 p/month) in Social Security (SS) benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments in 2023. The 2024 increase however is expected to much smaller as inflation cools, with estimates and current CPI
- [Remote Work Tax Issues To Consider When Filing Your Return](https://savingtoinvest.com/remote-work-tax-issues-to-consider-when-filing-your-return/) - The shift to remote work has been one of the most significant changes in the workforce accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. While remote work offers many benefits, including increased flexibility and improved work-life balance, it also poses several potential tax issues that employees (and employers) need to consider. In this article, we will discuss some
- [When to Expect Your Tax Refund in 2023 - Processing and Payment Delays Continue](https://savingtoinvest.com/2020-tax-filing-and-refunds-tracking-lower-than-2019-but-surge-expected-into-2021/) - The higher average refund amount in 2023 is driven by those expecting a refund filing as soon as they could. While those who owed taxes or were not expecting a refund will wait right up to the tax deadline this year to file their return and pay any taxes owed. Below are the latest statistics
- [My Car Rental Debt Collector Debacle And Negotiating a Lower Payment](https://savingtoinvest.com/my-car-rental-debt-collector-debacle-and-negotiating-a-lower-payment/) - A few months ago I had gone to visit relatives in Washington D.C for a few days ahead of a work trip to New York. When I got to Dulles airport, just outside D.C., I rented a car from the Budget car rental at the airport. The total for the weekly rental was around $380.
- [If You Need to Ask About Your Refund or Make Change To Your Return](https://savingtoinvest.com/if-you-need-to-ask-about-your-refund-or-make-change-to-your-return/) - Within 48 hours of submitting your electronic tax return, the IRS will notify your Electronic Return Originator (ERO) - which could be your accountant, tax preparer or tax software company - of its acceptance. In the event that your return is rejected, the IRS will inform your ERO of the reasons for the rejection. The
- [Why Is My Child Tax Credit Refund Lower Than Last Year](https://savingtoinvest.com/why-is-my-child-tax-credit-refund-lower-than-last-year/) - Many tax filers claiming the Child Tax Credit (CTC) this year are surprised to see their refund payment much lower than expected. This is mainly due to the widely claimed tax credit resetting from a pandemic boosted maximum of $3,600 to $2,000 per child in 2022 and 2023. Another reason is that they are not paying attention to the minimum earnings
- [2023 California (CA) Refund Status and Middle Class Tax Refund - Latest Updates and News on Payments](https://savingtoinvest.com/california-ca-tax-considerations/) - With the latest tax season upon us it is worth reviewing some of the key tax changes for Californian residents and tax filers. As the most populous state in the union with high average incomes it is no surprise that Californian residents pay more taxes than those of any other state. So taxes are an
- [Common Tax Refund Myths and Fake News](https://savingtoinvest.com/common-tax-refund-myths-and-fake-news/) - It's tax season and social media is abuzz with tax related information. This includes news related to refund payments, which millions of Americans are anxiously waiting to get. Unfortunately this also creates an environment of false information (fake news!), deceitful ideas, and outright scams around refund payments and getting them ASAP. Here are some common
- [Characteristics Required For Success in Blogging and Other Side Hustles](https://savingtoinvest.com/characteristics-required-for-succesful/) - Here is a short story I wrote in my journal a few years ago covering how I successfully made money from my Math tutoring (part-time) job. This got me to thinking on how my approach to tutoring paralleled my current success in personal finance blogging. Following the guest post excerpt, I provide some of the
- [The Business of Being the Best - 7 Key Characteristics](https://savingtoinvest.com/the-business-of-being-the-best-7-key-characteristics/) - In every field, certain individuals excel and demonstrate outstanding performance. Many aspire to emulate these leaders, but are unsure how to attain their goal. In The Business of Being the Best, Molly Fletcher suggests that the top performers in all professions have a common set of traits. She believes that everyone can study these seven
- [2023 Commodity Supplemental Food Program - Helping Low Income Seniors and Children](https://savingtoinvest.com/2023-commodity-supplemental-food-program-helping-low-income-seniors-and-children/) - Under various state administered food stamp or SNAP programs, there is a sub-program called the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) which benefits over 600,000 seniors annually. This program seeks to further help seniors and children with supplementing access to healthy foods via local USDA approved food banks and grocery distribution centers. To qualify Seniors over 60
- [Would You Be Considered Poor Based on 2023 Federal Poverty Levels (FPL) Guidelines and Thresholds](https://savingtoinvest.com/would-you-be-considered-poor-based-on-federal-poverty-levels/) - In these tough economic times with rising inflation and high interest rates, many of us may feel quite poor. But feeling poor, versus being poor according to the government are two different things. In fact, the Census Bureau and Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) provide actual numbers to classify poverty; and these measures
- [Find Cheaper Home Insurance By Comparing Across Major Providers and Online Portals](https://savingtoinvest.com/finding-cheaper-home-insurance-by-comparing-all-state-progressive-liberty-mutual-and-others/) - As is the case every year, I receive an escrow summary from my mortgage provider. An escrow is the funding account for the variable part of your mortgage payment that includes property taxes, home insurance and HOA fees in some cases. The escrow amount is added to the fixed principal and interest of the monthly
- [2022-2023 Private School State Voucher Programs - Maximum Payment amounts and Eligibility](https://savingtoinvest.com/private-school-state-voucher-programs-maximum-payment-amounts-and-eligibility/) - Education choice is an important topic for a lot of American families. And over the last few years there has been a debate about putting more educational choice (and financial support) back in the hands of parents versus balancing the needs for adequate funding of public schools. This has manifested it self in School Education
- [IRS Debt Forgiveness With A Offer In Compromise](https://savingtoinvest.com/settle-your-irs-debt-with-a-offer-in-compromise/) - An Offer in Compromise (OIC) is a program offered by the Treasury and IRS that allows taxpayers to settle their federal tax debt or liability for less than the full amount owed. The OIC program can provide taxpayers, be it individuals or businesses, who are facing financial hardship a road back to financial stability. It
- [The more You Earn The More You Keep - Busting the Tax Bracket Myth](https://savingtoinvest.com/the-more-you-earn-the-more-you-keep-busting-the-tax-bracket-myth/) - This graphic I saw on a reddit board busts the common myth that the more you earn the more you pay in taxes, because you get bumped up into a higher tax bracket. However thanks to America (and most countries) having a progressive taxation system, the more you earn does not mean a proportionally higher
- [No Changes To Social Security, Medicare and SSI Benefits In 2023 Or 2024](https://savingtoinvest.com/no-changes-to-social-security-medicare-and-ssi-benefits/) - After threats by some members to cut spending on Social Security and Medicare benefits as part of debt-ceiling negotiations, Republicans as a group are now backing away from this threat. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R., Calif.) confirmed this when he publicly stated that he won't seek cuts to Social Security and Medicare, blunting a tool
- [Where is My New Jersey (NJ) State Tax Refund? 2023 Refund Status, Payment Delays and Getting a Live Agent](https://savingtoinvest.com/new-jersey-tax-considerations-and-checking-your-refund-status/) - With the latest tax season upon us it is worth reviewing some of the key tax changes for New Jersey residents and tax filers. As a relatively high taxing state with higher than average incomes it is no surprise that taxes are a hot button topic in New Jersey. The New Jersey Division of Taxation
- [When Can I Expect My New York (NY) State Tax Refund? 2023 Payment Updates](https://savingtoinvest.com/why-is-my-new-york-ny-state-tax-refund-taking-so-long-2022-payment-delay-updates/) - The NY Department of Taxation and Finance (NYDTF) manages the administration and collection of taxes and related programs for individuals and corporations in the state. Generally, you have to file a state tax return if you’re an income earning resident or part-year resident or a non-resident who earned income from a source in the state. You
- [Earned Income Tax Credit (EIC) Qualification Income Limits](https://savingtoinvest.com/2016-vs-2015-earned-income-tax-credit-eic-qualification-limits/) - You can see the latest EIC tables in this updated Earned Income Tax credit (EITC) page [Updated] Below are the final IRS published 2016 and 2017 Earned Income Tax credit (EITC) figures. You can reference IRS publication 596 or use online tax providers like TurboTax or H&R Block to get a free estimate of the specific credit amount you would get.
- [Will The Debt Ceiling be Raised in 2023 and Who's to Blame for This Mess - Republicans or Democrats? Latest Updates and News](https://savingtoinvest.com/will-the-debt-ceiling-be-raised-and-whose-to-blame-for-this-mess-republicans-or-democrats/) - This article looks at the current and past debt ceiling debacles and potential impacts to everyday Americans Basically if the debt ceiling (currently $31.4 trillion) is not raised, the government would not be able to borrow more money to pay its bills, which could lead to a default on its debt obligations. This could have
- [Schedule C (Form 1040) For Reporting Business Income - 2023 Updates and News](https://savingtoinvest.com/schedule-c-form-1040-for-reporting-business-income-2023-updates-and-news/) - A Schedule C tax form is used, along with your personal 1040 filing, to report income and expenses to the IRS from business related to self-employment which you own as a sole proprietor or single-member LLC. Think of side-hustles or gigs you do on the side, where you make a reasonable amount of income. A Schedule
- [Biden and Democrat's 2022 Stimulus Package (Inflation Reduction Act) Impacts, Payments and Tax Considerations - Updates and Latest News](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-the-democrats-tax-plan-to-fund-their-2022-stimulus-package-may-impact-you-via-new-taxes-and-the-companies-you-work-for/) - [Updated with latest developments] President Biden and the Democrats have finally passed a scaled down version of the BBB act, known as the Inflation Reduction Act (H. R. 5376). Key provisions include: Medicare Savings: Introduction of a $2,000 annual cap on Medicare recipient contributions to prescription spending. This gives seniors 65 and older more money
- [Why Was Money Taken Out of My Bank Account Before Tax Refund Was Paid](https://savingtoinvest.com/why-was-money-taken-out-of-my-bank-account-before-tax-refund-was-paid/) - Several tax companies allow you to get you filing fees and refund paid in advance, based on your estimated refund amount when filing with their tax software. But there is a clause in most of these advance fee or refund agreements that allows funds to be debited from your account by a certain date, which
- [IRS Tax Tips - 2022-2023 Tax Season Benefits for Parents Plus Facts about Dependents and Exemptions](https://savingtoinvest.com/irs-tax-tips-tax-benefits-for-parents-plus-facts-about-dependents-and-exemptions/) - The IRS publishes several bulletins which contain useful information for tax payers with dependents - e.g parents, grand parents and guardians - that apply to many of my readers. I have summarized the key points below including references to related articles for the latest tax season. Tax Benefits for Parents Dependents. In most cases, you can claim
- [Filing Fees for a W-2 with two dependents - Rising Costs for Preparing Basic Tax Returns](https://savingtoinvest.com/filing-fees-for-a-w-2-with-two-dependents-rising-costs-for-preparing-basic-tax-returns/) - Inflation is clearly taking a toll on the cost of filing this year with many folks reporting that the cost of filing and preparing a tax return is going up. For example for standard W2 filings with two dependents (a common tax return) the fees are nearly double in some cases, from $400 to over
- [IRS $600 Limit For Tax Form 1099K - What You Need To Know Around Third-party Payments in 2022 For 2023 Filings](https://savingtoinvest.com/1099-k-explained-everything-you-need-to-know-about-this-tax-form/) - What the 1099-K is, who needs to file it, and how to do so. We will also discuss the different situations in which you may need to file this form.
- [Will The $600 IRS 1099K Reporting Limit Be Raised To Avoid a Mess in the 2023 Tax Season?](https://savingtoinvest.com/will-the-600-irs-1099k-reporting-limit-be-raised-to-avoid-a-mess-in-the-2023-tax-season/) - [2023 Tax Season Update] The IRS has announced that they will be delaying the introduction of the new $600 reporting threshold for 1099-K forms. This was to be introduced this tax season. This means the existing $20,000 and 200 transactions thresholds will remain in place through the current tax season (December 31, 2023). _____ This
- [Expanded 2023 Premium Tax Credit (PTC) to Offset Impact of Marketplace Health Insurance Premiums](https://savingtoinvest.com/obamacare-premium-tax-credit-ptc-to-offset-impact-of-health-insurance-premiums/) - The Premium Tax Credit (PTC) allows you offset the monthly premium costs of health care plans purchased via official exchanges or government health insurance marketplaces. For nearly 5 million households, the PTC completely offsets their monthly premium (free health insurance!). Another 10 million benefit with reduced health care premiums. The PTC you receive is based on
- [Will Extra $80 billion of IRS Funding Be Repealed in 2023? Republican Defunding Bill](https://savingtoinvest.com/will-extra-irs-funding-under-ira-mean-faster-refunds-or-more-audits/) - [Updated January 2023 following Republican control of Congress] With Republicans now controlling the House of Representatives, they have proposed a measure to defund the $80 billion of IRS funding (over 10 years) that was included in the Inflation Reduction Act as discussed in earlier updates below. The house measure to "defund" the IRS however is
- [2023 Maximum Workers Compensation (WC) Weekly Benefit By State](https://savingtoinvest.com/maximum-workers-compensation-wc-weekly-benefit-by-state/) - In each state, U.S. territory, and the District of Columbia (D.C.), there is a maximum amount of weekly workers' compensation that can be received if an injury occurs on or after a specific date. These amounts are adjusted annually and represent the highest rate that a worker is eligible to receive. The maximum weekly workers'
- [Which Tax Software Package Gets the Fastest and Largest Refund in 2023](https://savingtoinvest.com/which-tax-software-providers-provide-the-fastest-and-largest-refund/) - I recently ran a poll on my YouTube channel that asked tax filers who have got their refund, or confirmation of it being paid, which tax software provider they used. Below are the result of the poll. Obviously the poll is not a scientific study, but it does correlate surprisingly well to what I am
- [Secure Act Changes To Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) for IRAs, Roth, 401Ks and Annuities - Latest 2023 News and Updates](https://savingtoinvest.com/coronavirus-stimulus-bill-allows-early-401k-or-ira-retirement-account-distributions/) - [2023 Update] The SECURE 2.0 Act is a new law that aims to strengthen the nation's retirement system. Some of the key changes brought about by the Act include increasing the age at which required minimum distributions (RMDs) must be taken from retirement accounts to 73 starting in 2023 and to 75 starting in 2033.
- [7 Considerations for the 2022 Tax Year – Individual and Small Business Tax Breaks, Credits & Deductions When Filing in 2023](https://savingtoinvest.com/7-considerations-for-the-2021-tax-year-individuals-and-small-business-tax-breaks-credits-deductions-when-filing-in-2022/) - The 2022 tax year will be quite different from 2021 given the number of expiring provisions, which will see reduced refunds for many Americans in 2023. This article will cover some of the main tax changes, so you don’t miss out on any of the major tax credits or deductions when filing your return. Federal
- [2023-2024 Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Maximum Amount and Updates](https://savingtoinvest.com/2014-cola-increase-provides-small-boost-and-lower-than-2013-levels/) - Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a program administered by Social Security that provides monthly payments to significantly disabled adults, children and seniors over 65 with low income and limited resources. To be eligible for SSI, a person must be 65 or older, blind, or have a medical condition that prevents them from working for at
- [2023 GS Locality Pay Raise and Updated Table for Los Angeles-Long Beach (CA) Area](https://savingtoinvest.com/2023-gs-locality-pay-raise-and-updated-table-for-los-angeles-long-beach-ca-area/) - President Biden has confirmed via executive order (EO) that 2023 General Schedule (GS) pay scales will rise by an average of 4.6%. This is the highest increase in nearly two decades. For the locality of " LOS ANGELES-LONG BEACH, CA" (LA area) the latest GS pay scale table is shown below, which incorporates the 4.1% GS
- [2024 $40 Grocery Summer EBT Benefit for Kids (SNAP)](https://savingtoinvest.com/40-grocery-summer-ebt-benefit-for-kids-snap/) - While SNAP emergency allotments were not extended into 2023, a new program was (permanently) funded in the 2023 government omnibus bill that provides a $40 per month grocery benefit for kids, starting in the summer of 2024. Children would be eligible for $40 supplementary grocery benefit - paid via reloadable debit cards - during the summer
- [Locality Pay Rates - General Schedule (GS) Pay Table Adjustments](https://savingtoinvest.com/2011-locality-pay-rates-general-schedule-gs-pay-table-adjustments/) - See this updated article for the latest GS Adjustments and Locality Pay Scale Tables. ______________________ [2013 Locality Pay Rates Update] The president has signed an executive order that freezes GS pay rises in 2013. Unfortunately the executive order and existing continuing resolution also stated that, "........ locality payments in 2013 for Government wide and single-agency categories
- [Filing Your Taxes: D-I-Y Tax Software (Turbo Tax, H&R Block) versus an Accountant / Professional Preparer](https://savingtoinvest.com/filing-your-taxes-d-i-y-taxation/) - Over the last few years as my tax situation grew more complex I have ended up using a tax professional to do my taxes. This was an easy option for me given I had personal income, business income and some overseas earnings. And with an accountant I felt a sense of comfort as I could
- [Tax Loss Harvesting By Selling Stocks and Lowering Your Taxable Income](https://savingtoinvest.com/tax-loss-harvesting-by-selling-stocks-and-lowering-your-taxable-income/) - It’s always a good habit to do some tax-loss harvesting (TLH) before year end, especially in years when the stock market is down significantly. This is primarily because you can use investment (capital) losses to offset any capital gains of similar assets; and also use the $3,000 income offset provision to legally lower your income
- [Ten Money Tips For Those in Their 30s and 40s - Your Financial Checklist](https://savingtoinvest.com/ten-money-tips-for-those-in-their-30s-and-40s-your-financial-checklist/) - As you approach middle-age in your 30s and 40s, here are ten money tips to keep your financial house in order. Think of it like your financial checklist and if you are doing most of these, you should be in good shape as you head towards retirement Start saving for retirement: If you haven't already
- [Countries With The Most Millionaires - 2022 Global Wealth Update](https://savingtoinvest.com/countries-with-the-most-millionaires/) - While America has the most number of millionaires in absolute terms, it does not have the most per capita. Reflecting the shift in global wealth distribution, most of the countries where the per-capita number of millionaires exceeds that of the US are in Asia and the Middle East. 62.5 million millionaires worldwide end-2021 The largest
- [Taxes and Capital Gains When Selling My Home](https://savingtoinvest.com/taxes-and-gains-i-can-exclude-when-selling-my-home/) - Following my recent post on Tips for Selling your Home, I received a reader email asking me to clarify the tax consequences of selling their home and what the potential liability/capital gain implications would be. Based on what the IRS says, here are the key tax facts to keep in mind around figuring your gains.
- [When Will I Get My Employer W2, Investments 1099, Mortgage 1098 and Other Tax Return Forms and Filing Documents](https://savingtoinvest.com/when-will-i-get-my-employer-w2-investments-1099-mortgage-1098-and-other-tax-return-forms-and-filing-documents/) - Before we file our tax returns there are a number of forms we need to receive from our employers, financial institutions and other third-party entities we make money from, conducted financial transactions or did business with. Below are estimated time frames for when we can expect to receive some of these common income tax forms for the current tax season. Employer
- [What You Can Do Right Now To Make Filing 2022 Taxes in 2023 Easy!](https://savingtoinvest.com/what-you-can-do-right-now-to-make-filing-taxes-easy/) - Filing taxes can be a complex and stressful procedure for anyone and can be even more challenging if your finances are complicated or accounting is not your strong suit. Some people have said they would rather have a root canal then deal with a complicated tax return! This process is additionally problematic for anyone with less-than-stellar
- [How Rich Am I Relative To Others Based on Household Income](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-rich-am-i-relative-to-others/) - The table below shows where your household stands, relative to others in the US population, based on how much income is earned per year. For example, if your household makes $50,000 a year you would be in the 25% percentile group of household income. At $150,000, you would be in the percentile that makes more than 75% of other
- [Payroll Tax Credit and Unemployment Insurance Benefits Extension](https://savingtoinvest.com/obama-to-push-for-unemployment-insurance-and-payroll-tax-credit-extension-in-2011-and-2012/) - See updated details on the potential 2020 payroll tax cut [Updated- 2012 Payroll Tax Credit Holiday, Unemployment Benefits and Medicare Doctor Payments Extended to Dec 31st] With House Republican support Congress has passed legislation extending the federal payroll tax holiday through the end of the year without demanding spending cuts to pay for it. This
- [Outside of Detroit does anyone care that US Automakers GM and Chrysler are now Bankrupt](https://savingtoinvest.com/outside-of-detroit-does-anyone-care/) - Bloomberg, along with the WSJ, bring us an interesting viewpoint on the US automakers path down bankruptcy and the debate on who really cares. Living outside Detroit, I do feel sorry for the personal and financial tragedy that many are facing due to the bankruptcy of the automakers, but from a national/investment standpoint I am
- [COLA (Cost-of-Living Adjustment) Increase for Social Security, SSI, Federal Retirees and Medicare Premiums](https://savingtoinvest.com/2012-cola-cost-of-living-adjustment-for-social-security-federal-retirees-and-medicare-premiums/) - [2021 update] 1.3% COLA increase in 2021 officially confirmed by the SSA. For the average retiree who got a check of $1,523 this year, that would mean an additional $20 a month. The 1.3% COLA is the smallest increase since 2017 and slightly below the 1.4% average over the past decade. See this article for
- [Gold Price Outlook and Forecast For 2023](https://savingtoinvest.com/gold-price-outlook-golden-investment-in/) - [Updated] Gold prices reached record levels following S&P's sovereign credit downgrades and ongoing fears of Euro market/region instability. Coupled with volatility in global equity markets many investors and sovereign nations have rushed to invest in the yellow metal for protection and price speculation. A number of analysts are predicting that ongoing global instability and slower economic
- [Will There Be Monthly Child Tax Credit Payments in 2022 or 2023](https://savingtoinvest.com/500-stimulus-tax-credit-for-adult-and-other-dependents-over-17-or-18-who-dont-qualify-for-child-tax-credit/) - [December 2022 update] Despite attempts by Democrats to restore the CTC to expanded pandemic levels, it is unlikely a funding bill will be passed before the end of the year. As a result the CTC will return to pre-pandemic levels and can only be claimed via your tax return filing. _____________ [2022 April Update] With
- [5 Smart Money Moves Parents Should Make With the Child Tax Credit](https://savingtoinvest.com/5-smart-money-moves-parents-should-make-with-the-extra-250-to-300-advanced-child-tax-credit-in-2021-and-2022/) - Despite a lowering of child and dependent care tax credits, many families will continue to get these valuable payments when filing a tax return in 2022 and 2023. But if you don't need the money or bonus refund payment to meet the most basic of needs like food and clothing, here are 5 things you
- [Why Vanguard and Fidelity Money Market Funds Are a Money Losing Proposition. Go For A High Yield Savings Account Instead](https://savingtoinvest.com/why-vanguard-and-fidelity-money-market-funds-are-a-money-losing-proposition-go-for-a-high-yield-savings-account-instead/) - Like millions of Americans I use Vanguard and Fidelity for managing most of my Mutual funds and ETFs. As a result of selling some stocks and lowering my automatic fund investments (due to a brutal stock market) I have about 20% of my portfolio in cash. I figured that with higher interest rates I could
- [6 Reasons You Should Be Inspired to Save Money](https://savingtoinvest.com/6-reasons-you-should-be-inspired-to/) - While many people will tell you money isn’t everything, it’s hard to deny that having a bit of it can make life easier and provide peace of mind. With that being said, many of us still find it difficult to motivate ourselves to save. Inspiration is often lost in the ‘here and now’ among all
- [The Four Deadly Credit Card Mistakes You Can Avoid Now](https://savingtoinvest.com/the-four-deadly-credit-card-mistakes/) - Most people make common credit card mistakes that end up costing them a lot of money. Learn how to avoid these mistakes in this article. If you are not using your credit card correctly and you are making basic credit card mistakes, you are simply handing over money to your card issuer for no reason.
- [10 Fast and Easy Ways to Get, Save and Make Money Now](https://savingtoinvest.com/10-ways-to-quickly-improve-cash-flow-by/) - Nowadays every extra dollar counts more than ever. Despite a paycheck from working a regular job, once taxes and other fixed expenses are accounted for, it is getting harder and harder to make ends meet. Since there are only twenty four hours in day, physically working more (provided you can even get a second or
- [10 Easy Ways to Save Money On Taxes And Maximize Your Tax Refund](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-to-save-money-on-taxes-and-maximize-my-tax-refund/) - There are several ways you can maximize your tax refund in the coming year, including the following ways: Contribute to a retirement account: Contributions to certain types of retirement accounts, such as 401(k)s and traditional IRAs, can be deducted from your taxable income. This can reduce your tax bill and increase your refund. Review your
- [Best Small Business Credit Card, Savings and Checking Accounts - Choosing an Account With The Best Features and Returns](https://savingtoinvest.com/best-business-high-interest-savings-account-ing-direct-online-business-savings-account-with-a-top-rate/) - After about one year of incorporation of my solopreneur business, I have managed to build a decent amount of savings that was earning exactly 0.01% in my checking account. While I like the features of the checking account, it was not making my business savings work for me. So after receiving a promotional offer (a
- [State Energy Assistance Program - Updated for 2023 Benefits and Income Thresholds](https://savingtoinvest.com/state-energy-assistance-program-benefits-and-income-thresholds/) - With rising prices and variable weather conditions, many households continue to struggle when it comes to paying for home energy costs. Fortunately, for those on the lower end of the income scale, there are several federally-funded state assistance programs. Many may not be aware of these programs and so don't apply to take advantage, despite
- [Monthly Budget Comparison - Big City $10,000 vs. Small Town $4,000](https://savingtoinvest.com/monthly-budget-comparison-big-city-10000-vs-small-town-4000/) - I have two family friends. One lives in the DC Metro Area (Bethesda, MD) and the other lives in Appleton, Wisconsin. Classic Big Town vs. Small Town. I met them over Thanksgiving and we got talking about the cost of living and how it varies so much across America. Both are married with kids and
- [Cashing Out My 401(k) - Loans vs. Hardship Withdrawals - Which is The Better Option?](https://savingtoinvest.com/401k-cash-out-for-loans-vs-hardship/) - With rising prices and economic uncertainty, many Americans are still finding it hard to make ends meet and find that they are having to tap one of their most important and final saving vehicles – their company sponsored 401k or 403b (tax advantaged) retirement plans. There are 3 ways that cash can be taken out
- [How can I Claim My Remaining Child Tax Credit (CTC) or Missing Dependent Stimulus Payment in 2022? IRS Refund Payment Delays](https://savingtoinvest.com/500-stimulus-check-for-dependent-children-eligibility-and-payment/) - This article provides updates, income qualification thresholds and FAQs on current and past child tax credit (CTC) and dependent stimulus (economic impact) payments. Each one has slightly different rules (and payment constraints) so please ensure you review each one separately and the associated FAQs/videos. Click the links below to jump to the relevant stimulus payment.
- [How to Withdraw Money Early From Your 401K or IRA Without Paying a Penalty](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-to-withdraw-money-early-from-your-401k-or-ira-without-paying-a-penalty/) - In the current economic environment, many people are finding it hard to make ends meet or pay for unexpected events requiring large sums of money. In some cases this is forcing people to turn to their retirement accounts to find the necessary funds. All good personal finance advice says not to touch your 401K or IRA,
- [Can I use My Roth IRA as an Emergency Fund to Withdraw Funds Early?](https://savingtoinvest.com/using-your-roth-ira-as-an-emergency-fund/) - Have you considered using your Roth IRA as an emergency fund or as a source for getting some cash to cover an unexpected expense? In this era of tight budgets and volatile stock markets, a lot of people are finding it difficult (if not impossible), to save for retirement and maintain an emergency fund. Because
- [Who Can I Claim as a Dependent and Can Both Parents Claim the Same Child as a Dependent?](https://savingtoinvest.com/dependent-exemption-and-income-threshold-amount-drives-who-can-i-claim-as-a-dependent/) - I receive a number of questions every tax season regarding eligibility rules for claiming someone as a dependent on their tax return. Obviously this is an important topic because being able to claim someone as a dependent provides a number of tax benefits/exemptions and ultimately a lower tax bill. Further, tax payers may also get access to
- [2023 FHFA Conforming Loan Limits For Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Mortgages Exceed $1 Million in Some Areas](https://savingtoinvest.com/conforming-mortgage-loan-limits-for-fannie-mae-and-freddie-mac/) - The maximum conforming loan limits for mortgages acquired by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac has significantly from last year, per Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) guidelines as shown in the table below. The conforming loan limits (CLL) are established under the terms of the Housing and Economic Recovery Act (HERA), and are re-calculated each year. The law sets
- [Another 2010 Home Buyer Tax Credit Extension Unlikely Based on Stronger Housing Data. Armed Forces Members Have Till 2011 To Claim Credit](https://savingtoinvest.com/another-2010-home-buyer-tax-credit/) - Unfortunately it looks like the chances of a further extension to the home buyer tax credit are lessening by the day as stronger housing data and focus on reducing government debt and foreclosures emerges. Bloomberg reports that purchases of new homes in the U.S. surged 27% in March, the most in almost five decades as
- [2013 Debt Ceiling Increase Debate - Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, Defense, Education and  Food Stamp Spending Cuts](https://savingtoinvest.com/debt-ceiling-increase-deal-reached-see-if-you-were-impacted/) - [2013 Update] As I was updating this article, originally written in mid-2011 following the first debt ceiling deal, I got a major sense of deja-vu. After 18 months we are back in the same place with a dysfunctional Congress who barely passed legislation to avert the fiscal cliff. But it's my job to write so
- [Fiscal Cliff Deal Reached - Extending Unemployment Benefits, Tax Cuts, AMT Patch, EITC, Payroll Tax Credit Expiry, Delaying Budget and Defense Cuts](https://savingtoinvest.com/getting-ready-to-fall-off-the-fiscal-cliff-as-democrats-republicans-and-the-president-fail-to-compromise/) - [Updated Jan 2013] Congress and the Obama administration have reached an agreement that will avert a significant portion of the fiscal cliff and its associated impacts on your pay check and taxes next year. The passed legislation would increase tax revenue by $620 billion and only cut spending by $15 billion because the planned sequestration/spending cuts will be delayed
- [2013 Tax Changes, Credits and Impacts You Need to Be Aware of When Filing Your Tax Return in 2014](https://savingtoinvest.com/2013-tax-changes-credits-and-impacts-you-need-to-be-aware-of-as-part-of-the-fiscal-cliff-deal/) - [Updated for 2013-2014 tax filing season] Thanks to the so called fiscal cliff deal reached last year there were a number of impacts to taxes in 2013 which you need to be aware of when filing your 2014 taxes. Changes were in the form of updated federal tax rates, new phase out deductions and the
- [2013 Debt Ceiling Debate - Spending Cuts, Soaring Deficit, Tax Refund Delays and Political Theatrics](https://savingtoinvest.com/2013-debt-ceiling-debate-spending-cuts-soaring-deficits-and-political-theatrics/) - As I was writing this article I re-read my original pieces on the 2011 debt ceiling debate/deal and got a major sense of deja-vu. After 18 months we are back in the same place with a dysfunctional Congress, who barely passed legislation to avert the fiscal cliff, trying to reach a new deal to keep the nation from the edge of
- [American Jobs and Closing Tax Loopholes Act of 2010 (HR 4213) Update - New Tax Breaks, Unemployment Insurance and Home Buyer Credit Extension](https://savingtoinvest.com/new-tax-breaks-and-stimulus-credits-in-the-american-jobs-and-closing-tax-loopholes-act-of-2010/) - [Update July 2010] - This bill - HR4213 - was passed by Congress and is expected to signed into law by the President. The bill, also known as the American Jobs and Closing Loopholes Act of 2010 originally contained a provision to extend unemployment benefits, as well as a number of expiring tax provisions, which
- [New Bills for 2010 Home Buyer Credit and Unemployment Insurance Extension](https://savingtoinvest.com/new-bills-for-2010-home-buyer-credit-and-unemployment-insurance-extension/) - The home buyer credit, extended and expanded over the last 3 years is set to expire at the end of this month with Congress still unable to approve the extension as part of HR 4213. However, recently released data for May 2010 shows worrying trends of sharply declining sales of existing and new homes. Further,
- [Obama's 2012 Job Creation Stimulus and Tax Cuts - Can the New Economic Plan Really Boost The Economy and Lower Unemployment?](https://savingtoinvest.com/2012-job-creation-stimulus-plan-and-tax-cuts-can-the-president-really-boost-the-economy-and-lower-unemployment/) - [Update - American Jobs Act a.k.a 2012 Economic Stimulus] In what is essentially the 2012 stimulus package, President Obama has released details on the American Jobs Act which involves spending over $400 billion dollars to boost economic growth. The key provisions are: Extension of employee payroll tax cuts into 2012, which were due to expire
- [Obama Jobs Act - 2012 Payroll Tax cuts, Unemployment Extension, Infrastructure Spending and Small Business Incentives](https://savingtoinvest.com/obama-300bn-jobs-package-tax-cuts-unemployment-extension-infrastructure-spending-and-state-government-aid/) - [Update Sep 2011] - President Obama has revealed details on his new $447 billion Americans Jobs Act and it is pretty much in line with what I had referenced in my earlier update (see below) before his speech. Here are the main things he is proposing that now go to Congress for review and approval:
- [Using the Savers Tax Credit To Offset IRA and 401(k) Retirement Plan Contributions - 2012 vs. 2013 Income and Contribution Levels](https://savingtoinvest.com/2012-vs-2011-savers-tax-credit-for-ira-and-401k-retirement-plans/) - See this article for the latest Saver's tax credit details and updated annual thresholds. [Updated with 2012 and 2013 information] Despite tough economic times, you should not lose sight of your longer term retirement savings. This is where the little known IRS recommended savers credit can help you to keep contributing towards a retirement plans without
- [Fiscal Cliff: Payroll Credit and Income Tax Cut Extensions, Unemployment Insurance and Reserve Bank Actions](https://savingtoinvest.com/2013-fiscal-stimulus-payroll-credit-and-income-tax-cut-extensions-unemployment-insurance-and-reserve-bank-actions/) - The American economy is experiencing a seeming reversal of fortune following significant internal and external headwinds. The stock market, which tends to be a leading indicator of the economy, is back to 2011 levels. GDP and employment figures are also showing signs of slowing down. Some experts, including former President Clinton, have even suggested that
- [Payroll Tax Credit Holiday To Expire in 2013 Amongst Other Breaks in New White House Fiscal Cliff Impacts Report](https://savingtoinvest.com/payroll-tax-credit-holiday-to-expire-in-2013-amongst-other-breaks-in-new-white-house-fiscal-cliff-impacts-report/) - [Updated following fiscal cliff deal] - Unfortunately it looks like the payroll tax credit will not be extended into 2013 under the new deal Congress and the Obama administration have reached. See how this will impact your 2013 take home pay. For the latest on other fiscal cliff impacts and negotiations see this article. The Obama administration has confirmed its
- [2010 HIRE Act - Small Business Health Care Tax Credit, Payroll Tax Incentive and Business Credit For Employers Hiring and Retaining Unemployed Workers](https://savingtoinvest.com/payroll-tax-incentive-and-business/) - [Updated with New IRS provisions] The IRS has released more details on tax-saving opportunities included in recently enacted HIRE act federal legislation (see details in previous update below). A variety of business tax deductions and credits were created, extended and expanded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA), this year’s Hiring Incentives
- [Tax Credits and Deductions for Teachers ($250), Unemployed, Home Owners ($500/$1000) and College Tuition in 2010 Jobs and Closing Tax Loopholes Act](https://savingtoinvest.com/tax-credits-and-deduction-for-teachers-250-unemployed-property-5001000-and-college-tuition-in-2010-jobs-and-closing-tax-loopholes-act/) - The recently introduced American Jobs and Closing Tax Loopholes Act (Bill: HR 4213) includes important tax cuts to put more money back into the pockets of American families and workers. This new bill extends critical tax cuts through the end of 2010 so families and workers can receive the full benefits of these tax cuts
- [New 401(k) Fee Disclosure and Pension Funding Provisions in American Jobs and Closing Tax Loopholes Act (H.R. 4213)](https://savingtoinvest.com/new-401k-fee-disclosure-and-pension-funding-provisions-in-american-jobs-and-closing-tax-loopholes-act-h-r-4213/) - The U.S. House of Representatives approved legislation today that includes a provision to expose hidden 401(k) fees that may be eating into Americans’ retirement savings. The provision was part of the American Jobs and Closing Tax Loopholes Act (H.R. 4213). A majority of American workers rely on 401(k)-style plans to finance their retirements, but most
- [2013 Small Business Tax Deductions, Bonus Depreciation and National Transportation Projects](https://savingtoinvest.com/2011-jobs-stimulus-plan-small-business-tax-deductions-bonus-depreciation-and-national-transportation-projects/) - [Update Jan 2013] Congress and the Obama administration have reached an agreement that will extend a number of small business tax breaks through 2013 following the fiscal cliff deal which was legislated through the Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012. You can see details of the extended tax breaks in this article. [Update Sep-Oct 2010] Obama's Small Jobs Bill has been approved and
- [2010 Obama Health Care Rules Effective Now - Under 26 Dependent and Pre-existing Conditions Coverage](https://savingtoinvest.com/several-new-health-care-rules-effective-now/) - With the passage of health care reform, a major political achievement for the Obama administration, Americans will finally start seeing the actual impacts of many of these new laws. These changes will only initially impact people who buy new policies or are in plans where the coverage year is about to expire. But by 2011 most
- [Bush Tax Cuts Extended As Part of Unemployment Insurance Extension and Payroll Tax Deal](https://savingtoinvest.com/bush-tax-cuts-extended-for-2-years-as-part-of-unemployment-insurance-extension-and-payroll-tax-deal/) - In addition to keeping the current tax rates for all Americans, President Obama announced a compromise plan with the Republican leadership that would extend aid for the long-term unemployed for another 13 months. Other taxes that will be implemented or remain unchanged as part of the compromise include: The payroll tax, which funds Social Security
- [New Tax Credits and Programs to Help Unemployed Veterans - Wounded Warrior Work Opportunity & Returning Heroes Tax Credit](https://savingtoinvest.com/new-tax-credits-and-programs-to-help-unemployed-veterans/) - The Obama administration has proposed a host of new tax credits and programs to encourage employers to hire our growing army of veterans, particularly those that have been unemployed for a considerable time. This latest commitment to service members and veterans aims to provide a comprehensive plan to lower unemployment and ensure that service members
- [2013 Tax Rates and Brackets, Standard Deduction and Personal Exemptions Updated in Federal IRS Tax Table](https://savingtoinvest.com/potential-2013-tax-rates-with-bush-obama-tax-cuts-expiration/) - [Updated with 2013 IRS inflation adjusted tax brackets and fiscal cliff changes] Congress and the Obama administration's fiscal cliff deal (ATRA act) means that 2013 federal tax rates will remain fixed for nearly 99% of the population. Only those earning above $450,000/$400,000 (married/single) AGI will have a higher federal marginal tax rate in 2013, relative to 2012 levels.
- [2016 Maximum Weekly State Disability Insurance Benefits and Coverage](https://savingtoinvest.com/maximum-weekly-state-disability-insurance-benefit-and-coverage/) - State Disability Insurance (SDI) provides a way for disabled workers to receive income if disabled due to disabilities that prevent them from working and earning a living wage. Employee payroll deductions which are deducted from paychecks fund the various state disability programs . To qualify for the state maximum weekly benefit amount an individual must have
- [Updates on 2010 Government Tax Credits - Home Buyer Credit Filing Extension, $250 SSI and Medicare Gap Payments, Teacher Credits and Unemployment Insurance](https://savingtoinvest.com/updates-on-2010-government-tax-credits-home-buyer-credit-filing-extension-250-ssi-and-medicare-gap-payments-teacher-credits-and-unemployment-insurance/) - I have posted updates to a number of articles covering the spectrum of government stimulus funded tax credits and deductions. Here is a summary of the updates with a link to the detailed articles for more detailed information, qualification criteria and latest status. If you haven’t already, join 6000 plus subscribers to get the latest
- [Extended Coverage Via Tax-Free Employer-Provided Health Insurance for Children and Young Adults Under Age 27](https://savingtoinvest.com/extended-coverage-via-tax-free-employer/) - As a result of changes made under the Affordable Care Act, health coverage provided for an employee's children under 27 years of age is now generally tax-free to the employee. IRS Notice 2010-38 detailed these changes These changes allowed - but does not require - employers to permit employees to begin making pre-tax health care
- [Financial Reform Bill Summary - What it Means to Your Future. Free Credit Score, Bank Stocks and Consumer Protection Measures](https://savingtoinvest.com/financial-reform-approved-what-it-means-to-your-financial-future-free-credit-score-bank-stocks-and-consumer-protection-measures/) - [Updated] Approved! Congress and the President have approved the financial reform bill (detailed below) that would revamp the nation's financial regulatory system. It will allow for the creation of a consumer financial protection bureau at the Federal Reserve, give regulators new powers to liquidate failing financial firms whose collapse would threaten the economy and create a council of financial
- [How Much A Debt Deal Will Cost You With Higher Taxes, Fewer Deductions, Lower Benefits and Working Longer](https://savingtoinvest.com/the-big-deal-around-an-american-debt-default-and-who-may-stop-getting-paid-first-soliders-seniors-or-senators/) - [Update as of July 23rd] It's time to pay for the American dream. In various discussions around how to cut the national debt, so that we don't have to keep raising the debt ceiling, one theme that is common in most plans is that Americans now and for generations to come are going to feel
- [2017 COLA Increase Will Result in a Tax Hike For Over 12 Million American Workers](https://savingtoinvest.com/2017-cola-increase-will-result-in-a-tax-hike-for-over-12-million-american-workers/) - [2017 COLA update] Its been a few years with relatively minor COLA (cost-of-living-adjustment) increases but even with the marginal 2017 COLA increase of 0.3%, over 12 million Americans will pay higher taxes in 2017 as the maximum taxable earnings (wage base) subject to social security also increased from $106,800 to $110,100. You can see the previous update below for how this
- [Super Committee Fails to Reach Debt Deal - Automatic Triggers To Cut Defense and Discretionary Spending](https://savingtoinvest.com/debt-reduction-super-committee-deadline-approaching-what-happens-if-no-consensus-deal-is-reached/) - [Latest Update] As many had predicted, the debt Super Committee has failed to come up with a deficit reduction plan. Basically the not-so-super members failed to get past party line bickering and will now face the prospect of justifying to an angry public why they could not compromise. Further, the automatic triggers to cut defense
- [2016 vs. 2017 Obamacare Health Insurance Subsidies and Tax Credits](https://savingtoinvest.com/obamacare-health-insurance-subsidies-and-tax-credits/) - Despite ObamaCare, formally known as the Affordable Care Act, having been around for several years now there is still considerable uncertainty around the various tax credits and subsidies on premiums, deductibles, co-payments, and coinsurance. The value of these credits and subsidies are generally dependent on your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) and family size and can significantly impact
- [Obamacare Health Insurance Purchase Requirement Extended?](https://savingtoinvest.com/obamacare-health-insurance-purchasing-extension-into-april-2014/) - [Update March 31st 2013] Extension to purchase health coverage may now be in the works. The original deadline to purchase coverage, before incurring penalties was March 31st, 2014. But a number of state exchanges, like Covered California said that, "Individuals who start an online application by 11:59 p.m. on March 31, 2014, will have until 11:59 p.m. on April 15,
- [Credit Card Reform via the 2009 Cardholders' Bill of Rights](https://savingtoinvest.com/speeding-up-credit-card-reform-via/) - [Updated] Looks like credit card reform is gaining steam as the Senate is expected to vote (and approve) the controversial bill this week. The Credit Card Reform Bill, approved by the House on April 30th, is expected to pass in Congress with more than 20 amendments to the original house version of the legislation (see below).
- [No Increase, but Congress to Extend $8000 First-time Home Buyer Tax Credit into 2010 and Make Available to More Home Buyers and Owners](https://savingtoinvest.com/no-increase-but-congress-to-extend-8000/) - [Updated Nov] - See this post for details on the home buyer credit extenstion approval and new provisions: 2010 First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit Extension Approved and Expanded to Existing Home Owners. New Provisions Not Retroactive A number of would-be home buyers and the real estate industry are anxiously wondering if Congress will extend the $8000
- [$250 Medicare Drug Coverage Gap Rebate for Seniors To Be Paid in 2010 Under Obama Health Care Reform](https://savingtoinvest.com/250-medicare-drug-coverage-gap-rebate/) - [Update] The government is starting to mail out the tax free $250 medicare gap checks to seniors who fall into the program's gap in prescription drug coverage. This so called Medicare "doughnut hole," payment (detailed below) was part of the recently enacted Health care reform bill. If you have Medicare prescription drug coverage, and aren’t already
- [Which Company is Cheaper for Auto Insurance?](https://savingtoinvest.com/is-geico-really-cheaper-for-car/) - I've had my auto insurance with State Farm for the past few years, and every year their car insurance premiums have been going up. It was only a few dollars difference and I just ended up paying the higher rate. But when I recently received a new renewal notice, their premium had gone up by
- [Paying Too Much For Your Auto Insurance? Get a Better Rate For Free and Save on Your Renewal](https://savingtoinvest.com/are-paying-too-much-for-your-auto-insurance-get-a-better-rate-for-free-and-save-on-your-renewal/) - The AARP recently released it's auto insurance premium review which provides a good benchmark for checking whether the auto insurance you are paying is consistent with national and state averages. If it is not, then you should be looking to for a better rate with your current provider or find a new one elsewhere (or
- [3 Types of Free Auto Insurance Quotes You Should Be Getting](https://savingtoinvest.com/3-types-of-free-auto-insurance-quotes-you-should-be-getting/) - Auto insurance is probably one of the most competitive industries out there. This is generally good news for consumers, who have access to hundreds of insurers and a myriad of options. However, because it is easier and the more hassle-free option many people tend to stick with their existing insurer for a long time, despite
- [Unbundling Auto And Home Insurance Policies Even When Losing The Multi-Policy Discount](https://savingtoinvest.com/unbundling-auto-and-home-insurance-policies-even-when-losing-the-multi-policy-discount/) - Around this time of year many people get renewal notices for their auto insurance. More often than not they will briefly scan the notice and if the premium hasn’t increased substantially from the prior period they’ll just file away the renewal paperwork and let the auto-payment on file continue to be processed. But when I
- [Should I Sell My Crypto Currency (Bitcoin, Ethereum) or Hold and Buy More? Latest News and Updates](https://savingtoinvest.com/should-i-sell-my-crypto-currency-bitcoin-ethereum-dogecoin-now-or-hold-and-buy-more/) - As I update this article, it seems most major Cryptocurrencies are oscillating on a seemingly daily basis by several percentage amounts following news of regulatory crackdowns, exchange collapses (FTX anyone?), broad market corrections or due to everchanging sentiments on social media. Further with more digital "coins" and decentralized finance platforms still coming out at regular
- [Where is My Business Tax Refund?](https://savingtoinvest.com/where-is-my-business-tax-refund/) - While the IRS provides several online tools and options to get information on your personal tax (1040) return, business owners have to instead call the IRS to get help with questions related to corporate refunds. The IRS have themselves stated that for any business related tax returns and refund information, company representatives should call the
- [More Stimulus, Tax Credits or Breaks in 2023-2024 With Divided Congress?](https://savingtoinvest.com/midterms-and-your-money-what-happens-to-stocks-stimulus-and-taxes-if-republicans-or-democrats-win/) - The election certainly surprised many with Democrats retaining control of the Senate, while Republicans squeaked over the line to take control of the House with a small majority. Per my earlier update below, this does change the calculus of what may happen in the next two years as both parties look to the future and
- [Tax Tips and Actions To Help Maximize Your Refund](https://savingtoinvest.com/tax-tips-rates-and-brackets-to-help-maximize-your-return/) - With tax season around the corner it is time for taxpayers to start taking some year-end actions with their finances to get the best outcome on their taxes. Thanks to the folks over at Turbo Tax, the leading online tax preparation and submission software, and my own experience here are some of the top tips
- [Home Efficiency and Green Energy Tax Rebates Extended For Residential and Business Owners in 2022 and 2023](https://savingtoinvest.com/2010-home-star-green-energy-retrofit-rebates-and-tax-credits-to-make-your-house-energy-efficient/) - While not as generous as in previous years, there are several energy efficient tax credits and breaks available for 2022, which can be claimed when filing returns in 2023. This includes the residential energy efficient property credit, which allows for a credit equal to the applicable percent of the cost of qualified property. Qualifying properties
- [Faster Tax Refunds in 2023 With More IRS Agents and System Upgrades](https://savingtoinvest.com/faster-tax-refunds-in-2023-with-more-irs-agents-and-system-upgrades/) - [November Update] With additional funding in place now, the IRS has now hired nearly 5,000 people across their operations and taxpayer assistance centers to deal with filing backlogs, delayed processing and customer service issues. Along with a new IRS commissioner (Danny Werfel) in 2023, the IRS is gearing up for what is expected to be
- [Minimum Wage Increases - Will $5 Extra Really Help or Hurt](https://savingtoinvest.com/will-5-extra-really-make-difference/) - At the end of July the federal minimum wage jumps to $7.25 an hour from $6.55, according to the US department of Labor. However, many question if this will help or hurt low income workers and the small business that employ them. The minimum wage has increased over the last few years to the latest
- [Expanding the Earned Income Tax Credit in 2016](https://savingtoinvest.com/expanding-the-earned-income-tax-credit-in-2016/) - ** See this article for the latest Earned Income Tax Credit adjustments released by the IRS ____________________________ [Updated following SOTU speech] Following President Obama's state of the union speech and in addition to the items below, he had some good news on expanding the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) for 2016, which actually partisan support.
- [Will the Minimum Wage Increase in 2023?](https://savingtoinvest.com/will-the-minimum-wage-increase-in-2013/) - The good news is that in many of the states where the minimum wage is higher than the prevailing federal rate - generally higher cost of living areas - there is a strong push in 2023 to continue raising the minimum wage as inflation soars. See more in this updated article. _________ President Obama has
- [Are Treasury I-Bonds a Good Investment? Downside Risks and Tax Considerations](https://savingtoinvest.com/buying-a-treasury-i-savings-bond-and-purchase-limits/) - So after seeing a lot of buzz around the amazing yields being paid on Treasury Series I Savings Bonds (I-Bonds), I decided to take the plunge and buy some for my wife and I as a place to park some cash while the stock market gyrates and inflation remains stubbornly high. The buying experience was
- [8 Danger Signs You Will Likely Owe the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT)](https://savingtoinvest.com/8-danger-signs-you-will-likely-owe-the-alternative-minimum-tax-amt/) - The following are 8 signs that you may owe the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT), or the rich-mans tax, this year. You or your household fall into the high income category (generally $250,000 or more), which means that a good part or all of your AMT exemption is phased-out. You have relatively hefty deductions for state
- [Tax Tips If You Are Looking for a Job - Deducting Moving, Education and Job Search Expenses](https://savingtoinvest.com/tax-tips-if-you-are-looking-for-a-job-inlcuding-moving-education-and-job-search-expenses/) - With a growing population of unemployed workers the idea of owing money at tax time is downright scary and stressful. Particularly if you unexpectedly lost your job via a layoff or mass firing. However if you are actively looking for a job, there are a number of tax benefits – including some sizable deductions available
- [Cash for Appliances Stimulus Rebate Program - Covering Air Conditioners to Refrigerators to Washers; And How to Claim the Rebate](https://savingtoinvest.com/300m-cash-for-appliances-stimulus/) - The Federal energy-efficient appliance rebate program or Cash for Appliances program as it is more commonly known is now live in a number of states. The program will provide $300 rebates for Energy Star electric heat-pump water heaters, $100 for super-efficient clothes washers and $50 for super-efficient refrigerators. The program is being administered by the
- [$10,000 to $20,000 Student Loan Debt Relief for College Educated Americans - Qualification and Application Guidelines](https://savingtoinvest.com/10000-to-20000-stimulus-free-money-via-student-debt-relief-for-college-educated-americans/) - The Department of Education (DoE) has now provided guidelines and the beta application/website for the one-time Federal Student Loan Debt Relief program. You can see the application, eligibility criteria and how to check debt relief status in the sections below It is recommended that applications be done via the Federal Student Aid website. A paper
- [How to Invest in Stocks, ETFs, Mutual Funds and Cryptocurrency - A Beginners Guide to Investing](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-to-invest-in-stocks-etfs-and-mutual-funds-a-beginners-guide-to-investing/) - With the economy showing continued signs of improvement and financial markets continue to chug along (example: Market indexes back to record highs), many would be investors are more willing to invest in the stock market in order to earn higher than average returns. Investing in this day and age is easy and for newer investor's
- [Help! I Can't Pay My Rent (or Mortgage). 2021 eviction moratoriums extended - What Homeowners And Tenants Need To Know To Avoid Foreclosure And Evictions](https://savingtoinvest.com/cdc-eviction-moratorium-what-homeowners-and-tenants-need-to-know-to-avoid-foreclosure-and-evictions/) - [Update from approved $900 billion stimulus package] Congressional leaders have now extended rental assistance and eviction moratoriums in the latest $900 billion COVID relief package. This is welcome news for millions of Americans at risk over the next 4 months. In addition to additional stimulus checks, the new stimulus bill contains $25 billion in emergency
- [What's in Next and Final 2020 COVID Stimulus Package Including the $600 Unemployment Extension and Second Stimulus Check](https://savingtoinvest.com/heres-what-may-be-in-the-next-and-final-covid-stimulus-bill-before-the-election-including-the-600-unemployment-extension-and-second-stimulus-check/) - As the pandemic and COVID outbreaks spread across the country there is increasing pressure on lawmakers to pass an additional stimulus relief package before the end of 2020. While there have been a few proposals (e.g. HEROEs act) that have passed one chamber of Congress, bipartisan support has been non-existent. However House Speaker Nancy Pelosi
- [Economic Growth Driving Income Inequality - Are You Feeling The Prosperity?](https://savingtoinvest.com/3-years-of-economic-growth-are-you-feeling-the-prosperity/) - From a long term trend perspective, despite a few recessions along the way, the American economy based on GDP data, has been growing consistently bigger. Coupled with the stock market reaching new long term highs one may argue that America has found its groove again and that we are back on the yellow brick road
- [How to Shop Smart This Holiday Season – 5 Tips to Stretch Those Dollars Even Further](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-to-shop-smart-this-holiday-season-5-tips-to-stretch-those-dollars-even-further/) - It’s hard to believe than another holiday season is upon us. With all good intentions, most of us will make a promise to ourselves that we will shop early and shop smart. But unfortunately, in most cases, life's routines and little emergencies usually force us to shop at the last minute. This can make your
- [How to Budget for the Expensive Holiday Season](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-to-budget-for-the-expensive-holiday-season/) - With another holiday season upon us, it’s not too soon to start planning your gift buying budget. Since last year, the economy has changed, many well-known retailers are no longer in business, and it’s likely that those who still have jobs may not find a holiday bonus in their company stocking. So, it’s even more
- [Saving $95,000 by Refinancing into a Lower Rate and Shorter Duration Mortgage](https://savingtoinvest.com/saving-95000-by-refinancing-into-a-lower-rate-and-shorter-duration-mortgage/) - Many homeowners with good credit are ditching their old 30-year fixed rate mortgages for the 15-year or 20-year versions. This is primarily to leverage historically low rates for these shorter duration loans and benefit from the significant interest savings over the life of the loan. In fact, a friend of mine did exactly this when
- [Latest IRS Tax Brackets and Rates With Standard Deduction and Personal Exemption Updates](https://savingtoinvest.com/2014-irs-tax-brackets-and-rates-with-standard-deduction-and-personal-exemption-updates/) - See this article for the latest IRS updates to federal tax brackets and standard deductions. ____________ Below are the 2014 IRS federal tax brackets based on annual inflation adjustments. Given the low inflation environment there were only moderate increases in tax brackets, standard deductions and to the personal exemption. The main changes for the 2014 tax year
- [2023 Teachers IRS Tax Deduction - Expense Limit Raised For Elementary and Secondary School Educators](https://savingtoinvest.com/2011-expiring-tax-breaks-which-ones-will-be-extended-in-to-2012/) - Teachers and other personnel at K-12 schools can take a tax deduction for classroom supplies that they buy out of their own pockets, whether they itemize or not. This deduction amount is adjusted on a semi-regular basis, with the latest amounts shown below. It has been raised for the 2023 tax year by $50. The
- [2022 Year End Tax Moves You Can Start Making Now For 2023 Filing](https://savingtoinvest.com/year-end-tax-moves-you-can-make-now/) - With year-end around the corner most people are far more focused on holiday shopping rather than on reducing their tax liability. But the fact is that unless you make tax saving moves before year end, you may end up paying Uncle Sam (a.k.a the IRS) a lot more than you legally have to when you
- [I Bought My First Short-Term US Treasury Bill For a Better Return Than CDs and High Yield Savings Accounts](https://savingtoinvest.com/i-bought-my-first-short-term-us-treasury-bill-for-a-better-return-than-cds-and-high-yield-savings-accounts/) - With short-term interest spiking thanks to the Federal reserve's aggressive rate hiking cycle, the yield on short term treasuries have reached levels not seen in several years. In fact, the rates for the 1 year and 2 year treasury bonds are much higher than the average APY on the highest of high yield savings accounts
- [Why the Bond Markets Imminent Crash May Be Exaggerated](https://savingtoinvest.com/why-the-bond-markets-imminent-crash-may-be-exaggerated-like-a-007-movie/) - Apparently the bond market is heading for a big time crash after a nearly 25 year boom based on the outflow from bond funds (mutual and ETF) as prices tumbled. The main driver behind this is the expected rise in interest rates driven by the Federal Reserve, which uses interest rates as a lever to
- [Health Insurance Tax Credits to Help Millions of Middle-Class Families in Affordable Insurance Exchanges](https://savingtoinvest.com/health-insurance-tax-credits-to-help-millions-of-middle-class-families-in-affordable-insurance-exchanges/) - As part of new regulations under Obama's health care legislation the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) today took the next steps to establish Affordable Insurance Exchanges – one-stop marketplaces where consumers can choose a private health insurance plan that fits their health needs and have the
- [Tipping Philosophy - When and When Not To Tip](https://savingtoinvest.com/tipping-philosophies/) - Are you a generous tipper or do you give the minimum tip possible? Do you tip extra for good service or not at all for bad service? Do you tip for take-out or to-go orders? Well, everyone has their own tipping philosophy and it does vary by where you live, your background and expectations. Mrs
- [2022-2023 Social Security and SSI Raise via Record COLA Increase](https://savingtoinvest.com/social-security-and-ssi-raise-via-cola-increase-highest-since-global-financial-crisis/) - The SSA released the final figure for the 2022 COLA increase which affects nearly 70 million Americans collecting social security and SSI benefits. The 2022 raise was 5.9%, which translates to an extra $92 in retirees’ average monthly benefit next year. It was nearly 5 times last years increase. See the latest on the 2023
- [Tax-Exempt Money Market Funds are Rocking](https://savingtoinvest.com/tax-exempt-money-market-funds-are/) - Why are tax free money market funds providing relatively decent yields compared to leaving your money in a regular bank account? Pamela Wisehaupt Tynan, who oversees Vanguard's municipal money market funds says "These unusually high yields are simply a function of how the money market arena is reacting to events in the credit markets right
- [Going to Local IRS office and Talking face-to-face To Get Updates on My Tax Return Processing and Refund Payment Status](https://savingtoinvest.com/going-to-local-irs-office-and-talking-face-to-face-to-get-updates-on-my-tax-return-processing-and-refund-payment-status/) - With pandemic restrictions easing, many IRS offices are reopening to help tax filers struggling to get updates on their tax returns or who have been waiting weeks/months to get their refund payment, including missing stimulus checks and new tax credits. While the IRS says to check online for the latest refund status or via their
- [Stimulus Check Payment Status Updates and Latest News For IRS EIP Payments](https://savingtoinvest.com/irs-stimulus-check-direct-deposit-payment-information-portal-now-available-for-non-filers/) - There has been a lot of debate over the last few months on if another stimulus check payment will be made in 2022 or even in 2023 as the economy worsens and inflation takes a heavy toll on household budgets. You can see this article for a more detailed discussion, funding for a 4th stimulus check was not
- [Any Chance of More Stimulus Check Payments in 2022 or 2023?](https://savingtoinvest.com/2000-stimulus-checks-may-be-paid-by-march-2021-including-1000-dependent-payments/) - There has been a lot of debate over the last few months on if another stimulus check payment will be made in 2022 or even in 2023 as the economy worsens and inflation takes a heavy toll on household budgets. You can see past updates below on the various stimulus check payments, but in essence
- [How Declaring Bankruptcy Affects Your Life Insurance Premium Rates](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-declaring-bankruptcy-affects-your/) - Debt is a part of life, but when debts careen beyond control to a point where you can no longer repay, filing for personal bankruptcy is a way out. However, before you file for bankruptcy, there are important repercussions you should consider, especially facts related to your life insurance premiums. Bankruptcy and life insurance If
- [Will Monthly Child Tax Credit Payments Continue in 2022 or Revert To Smaller Amounts For 2023 Tax Filings](https://savingtoinvest.com/will-there-be-monthly-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2022/) - Millions of families and households got use to getting a monthly dependent payment from the IRS in the second half of 2021. This payment, known as the advance child tax credit, was generally claimed via tax return filings in prior years. As part of Biden’s ARPA stimulus bill to provide pandemic relief for households and
- [$1,200 to $14,000 Clean Energy Homeowner Tax Credits and Rebates in 2023 Under Inflation Reduction Act](https://savingtoinvest.com/1200-to-14000-clean-energy-homeowner-tax-credits-and-rebates-extended-under-inflation-reduction-act/) - Under the recently enacted Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), several new clean energy tax credits and subsidies were funded and/or expanded into the next decade. The goal of these extended and expanded payments is to "green-ify" homes (zero net carbon emission) and make them more energy efficient, which means fewer greenhouse gases emissions and lower dependence
- [How Much Higher Will Mortgage Rates Go This Year](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-much-higher-will-mortgage-rates-go-this-year/) - With the Fed's aggressive actions in raising rates to tackle inflation, economists are predicting that rates will continue rising for the remainder of the year. This is based on the dramatic rise of the 10 year Treasury yield over the last month to which mortgage rates are loosely tied. The 30-year, fixed rate loan recently
- [Five Reasons Buying A Home (vs Renting) is Questionable Right Now](https://savingtoinvest.com/five-reasons-owning-a-home-is-not-the-investment-it-used-to-be/) - Thanks to the housing affordability crisis, many fundamental truths about owning an home have come under question. For example, owning a home was considered a key plank towards financial freedom and along with 401K/IRA retirement plans was the best way to build financial security over the longer term. Similarly a popular adage was to buy your
- [Are so called Smart People really Smarter Than The Average Joe](https://savingtoinvest.com/are-so-called-smart-people-really/) - When I was younger and whenever my mother took me to the doctor or a professional like her banker, accountant or stock broker, she would always say: "Don't worry son, you're in good hands, these people are super smart." Well, lets take a look at some of these "smart" professionals today. Ivy League trained bank
- [Why Biden Will be a One Term President and What He Should Do To Save Our Economy!](https://savingtoinvest.com/why-obama-will-be-a-one-term-president-and-what-he-should-have-done-to-save-our-economy/) - This is a guest post by Tony Parker, an outspoken business owner and investor, looking at the intersection of politics and money. While I don’t agree with all his views (see my rebuttal in the comments section) I do think he makes some valid points worth discussing. Please share your views and thoughts via leaving
- [US Dollar Rising and Outlook For 2022 and 2023](https://savingtoinvest.com/us-dollar-rising-and-outlook/) - Despite global economic woes and falling stock markets, a positive aspect for main street America has been the relatively rapid rise of the US dollar of late. While this lowers the cost of imported goods and services, it does hurt business that compete globally as the cost our exports rises. The dollar index (DXY), a
- [Buying Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS) Ahead of Real Inflation Fears](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-and-why-to-buy-treasury-inflation/) - With higher inflation looming on the horizon thanks to the extraordinary increase in the money supply from all the government spending on stimulus and bailouts, many investors are rushing into purchasing "inflation protection" via Treasury inflation-protected securities (TIPS). How TIPS Work These securities are essentially government-issued bonds whose principal grows with rising inflation and pay a
- [Helpful Tips for Couples, Spouses and Partners to Avoid Financial Disagreements](https://savingtoinvest.com/tips-for-avoiding-financial-disagreements/) - Here is the second article in the series about couples and money. The first one was around effective planning and managing expectations for couples. But as we know in reality, even the best laid plans can change causing tension in a relationship. This article is on how to handle common financial disagreements when they (and believe me
- [Couples and Money : Issues and Expectations](https://savingtoinvest.com/couples-and-money-issues-and/) - "What's hers is hers and what's mine is hers - that's how we share our money!" Many arguments about money occur because couples haven't clearly spelled out their expectations about investing, spending or saving. Instead, each member of the couple simply assumes that the other shares his or her views on the subject. Unfortunately, this
- [IRS Economic Impact (Stimulus Check) Letter is Useless and Of No Help](https://savingtoinvest.com/irs-economic-impact-stimulus-check-letter-is-useless-and-of-no-help/) - [Update] - All past stimulus (economic impact) payments need to now be claimed via filing a tax return for the applicable tax year the stimulus check was paid. 2020-2021 Stimulus Check Payments More than 120 million stimulus payments have been made by the IRS and associated Economic Impact Payment (EIP) letters have recently been received
- [10 Boring Blue Chip Stocks Offering Strong Growth and Dividend Protection](https://savingtoinvest.com/10-blue-chip-stocks-to-invest-in-for-2011-offering-growth-and-dividend-protection/) - With the economic outlook uncertain to say the least, investors are now looking ahead to what the best stocks next year could be. Investors need to ensure that they still have growth in their portfolios to deal with inflation and higher taxes, while also picking stocks that protect their portfolio from any domestic or international
- [Is My Job at Risk? Clear Signs your Employer May Fire You and 5 Things To Do Now](https://savingtoinvest.com/5-clear-signs-your-job-is-in-danger-and-five-things-to-do-now/) - As the economy slows and a recession looms, workers at companies small and large are getting ever more anxious about their jobs and livelihoods. It seems like not a day goes by when news comes out that a major company announces a round of layoffs or indicates plans to to cut its workforce by 5,
- [Negotiating Down Your Credit Card Debt by Half or More](https://savingtoinvest.com/negotiating-down-your-credit-card-debt/) - A strange phenomenon is taking place – credit card companies are willing to really negotiate on how much you repay of your overdue debt. With revolving credit, a close approximation of credit card debt, totaling $940 billion in March of which 6.5 percent was at least 30 days past due in the first quarter, banks
- [Financial Healing By Breaking the Paycheck to Paycheck Syndrome](https://savingtoinvest.com/your-four-step-plan-towards-financial-healing-breaking-the-paycheck-to-paycheck-syndrome/) - In the current financial climate as the economy slows with rising inflation, many of us are under pressure to pay the bills, buy basic household items and meet our day-to-day expenses. Finding spare cash to pay off loans, save for your kids college expenses and to build up a decent retirement nest-egg seems like an
- [Frugally Protecting Yourself from Gas Siphoning Theft](https://savingtoinvest.com/frugally-protect-yourself-from-gas/) - One of the more unsavory aspects of the sudden rise in gas prices has been a marked increase in criminal gas siphoning activities. This has been widely reported in the media, but over the weekend it struck very close to home when a neighbors car, which is normally parked only a few feet from mine,
- [CP10 IRS Notice - A Change to Your Estimated Tax Credit Amount & What You Need to Know Versus CP11 and CP12 Letters](https://savingtoinvest.com/cp10-notice-a-change-to-your-estimated-tax-credit-amount-what-you-need-to-know/) - This article is about the IRS CP-10 notice is, what it pertains to and what you should do when you receive one.
- [Easy Ways to Cope With Higher Gas Prices](https://savingtoinvest.com/easy-ways-to-cope-with-higher-gas/) - With gas prices at an all-time high, more and more people are looking for ways to reduce their fuel costs. Being a personal finance blogger, I thought I would join in on the advice band wagon and provide some simple ideas I use and have read about to save on gas as it soars past
- [Pros and Cons of Reverse Mortgages - Is This The Right Option and Factors to Consider](https://savingtoinvest.com/look-at-pros-and-cons-of-reverse/) - Reverse mortgages are becoming an increasingly popular financing offering with our aging baby boomer population, looking for ways to unlock the value from their homes. Simply defined, reverse mortgages are a special type of home loan that lets a homeowner convert a portion of the equity in his or her home into cash. The equity
- [Why Most People Will Not Be Able to Retire On Time (before 67)](https://savingtoinvest.com/why-most-people-will-not-be-able-to-retire-at-age-62/) - Although many people spend 20, 30 or more years saving for retirement, the sad truth is that today, many people will not be able to retire on time. Despite some degree of financial planning, many individuals simply have been unable to reach their retirement income goals and are forced to work well beyond the standard
- [The Power of Compounding - $1 Million Now or Penny Doubling for a Month](https://savingtoinvest.com/power-of-compounding-1-million-now-or/) - I recently saw an interesting video that asked a number of regular people if they would rather have a million dollars now or take a penny now and double the amount every day for the next 30 days. What would be your choice? As expected, 90% of people chose the million dollars now option. I
- [Three Investments That Profit From Inflation - CDs, TIPS and Commodities](https://savingtoinvest.com/three-investments-that-profit-from-inflation-cds-tips-and-commodities/) - Everyone is now feeling the effects of higher prices and rising costs. Also known as inflation. As consumers, no one likes inflation. However as investors, there are some good ways to profit from rising inflation, or at least buffer your portfolio from falling asset prices. Before we can figure out how to profit from inflation
- [Will The Stock Market Bounce Back or Should I Sell and Run for The Hills As we Enter A Prolonged Bear Market?](https://savingtoinvest.com/will-the-stock-market-bounce-back-or-should-i-sell-and-run-for-the-hills/) - The stock market has weathered moments of fear, falls and panic over the past decade. But each time, the market came roaring back and set new records, leaving investors to ask why they sold in the first place! I keep reminding myself of this logic, which is reinforced by many market pundits and financial media outlets.
- [Using Your Credit or Debit Card to Pay Taxes - Costs, Convenience and Other Factors To Consider](https://savingtoinvest.com/using-your-credit-or-debit-card-to-pay-taxes-costs-convenience-and-other-factors-to-consider/) - Many tax payers may find themselves owing taxes to the IRS or to their state tax agencies after preparing their tax return. Cash flow may be a bit tight, so they may opt to pay via their debit or even credit cards. But before doing so, it pays to be beware of the impacts and
- [Can't Afford to Pay My Taxes! What Happens if I File Late and Can I Get an Extension From The IRS](https://savingtoinvest.com/cant-afford-to-pay-my-taxes-what/) - Sometimes its just plain hard for people meet ones tax obligations. This could be because they have a tax liability and due to a drastic change in their financial or personal circumstances over the year, they cannot afford to file their taxes. You can get a good idea of your tax liability (for free) by
- [Thinking of Temporarily Reducing my 401k Contributions](https://savingtoinvest.com/thinking-of-reducing-my-401k/) - I am going to take a contrary view of retirement savings and say that in current market conditions you should think about reducing your 401(k) contributions to only invest the amount that is needed to get your company match. I am normally a strong proponent of company sponsored 401(k)and traditional (IRA) retirement plans because of
- [Top Reasons for IRS Tax Processing and Refund Delays](https://savingtoinvest.com/2018-2019-top-reasons-for-irs-tax-processing-and-refund-delays/) - If you are frustrated with delays in getting your tax refund and the inability to get a straight answer from the IRS, then take some small solace that you are not alone. In fact per the Taxpayer Advocate Services's Annual Report to Congress this IRS’s Failure to Answer the Right Tax Law Questions is the
- [What to Do In Times of Stock Market Mayhem - Your 5 Step Sanity Checklist](https://savingtoinvest.com/what-to-do-in-times-of-stock-market-mayhem/) - It seems like 2008 and March 2020 all over again as stock markets around the globe continue to free fall against the backdrop of higher inflation and interest rates. This is compounded by ongoing geopolitical issues (Russia's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine) and the still present Coronavirus (COVID-19) and subvariants raging in parts of the world.
- [Why Even High-Income Earners Are Not That Far From The Edge of Poverty](https://savingtoinvest.com/why-even-high-income-earners-are-not/) - Despite earning more than $100,000 in household income many people still feel that they are living month-to-month and that a loss of employment or sudden medical emergency could easily move them from upper middle class to low income earners. This feeling of being on the “edge” of poverty, despite these levels of income, seems a
- [Budgeting Pitfalls and Remedies - How to Fix Common Issues](https://savingtoinvest.com/budgeting-pitfalls-and-remedies/) - Budgeting provides a way for people to track their income and expenses. However the hard part, once people are aware of their expenses, is to actually cut back on discretionary items. Budgeting fails for many people because they fail to address this key shortcoming. Budgeting will not reduce your expenses; it is how you react
- [10 Ways To Get Out Of Debt Starting Now](https://savingtoinvest.com/10-ways-to-get-out-of-debt-starting-now/) - Debt is as American as apple pie. It is estimated that 80% of Americans live with debt and that includes $8 trillion in home mortgage debt. Many of us go to work every day simply to pay for products or services that we’ve already received. We can’t help our children with college, fund our retirements,
- [Understanding Good Debt vs. Bad Debt - Taking Charge of Your Finances](https://savingtoinvest.com/good-debt-vs-bad-debt-taking-charge-of/) - You may have heard the terms good debt and bad debt before, but it is not as simple as labeling credit card debt as bad, and a home loan as good because a home loan can in fact be considered bad debt too. It is important to understand the differences between and the definitions of
- [How to Make Money and Succeed as a Freelancer](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-to-make-money-by-as-a-freelancer-by-starting-your-online-business/) - Like gasoline for an automobile, data is fuel for the internet. Without data (content) the internet is a useless tool, just like a car that runs out of gas. The internet continues to grow and because of that, an increasing amount of content is needed to fuel it - and the economic engine it now
- [The Importance of Portfolio Diversification in Volatile Markets](https://savingtoinvest.com/importance-of-diversification/) - In a recent post I talked about the 5 "buy" signs for a stock. However, your portfolio should never consist of just one stock, Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) or mutual fund in the long term because of the potential exposure to loss you will have. So to manage your risk, especially in a tough economy,
- [Why Did My Monthly Mortgage Payment Go Up?](https://savingtoinvest.com/5-reasons-why-your-monthly-mortgage-payment-went-up/) - Many homeowners have had their mortgage payments change recently and there are multiple reasons why this may have happened, as discussed in this article. You’ll need to have the mortgage statement from your lender handy to find out more, which should indicate why the payment has increased. I’ll cover some of the common reason why
- [How and Where to Invest in 2022 and 2023 – Stocks, Crypto and Funds to Choose Given These Four Trends (Including a Possible Recession)](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-and-where-to-invest-in-2022-and-2023-stocks-crypto-and-funds-to-choose-given-these-four-trends/) - 2021 was not an easy year for investors to navigate. With political unrest in the wake of the previous year’s election, a pandemic that kept wide swathes of the economy closed down and disrupted supply chains, and the alarming start of inflationary prices, it was hard to find good bets for investing money and earning
- [Understanding Your W2 Employer-Employee Tax Reporting Form](https://savingtoinvest.com/understanding-your-w2-employer-employee-reporting-form-for-tax-filing/) - One of the most important tax forms you will receive during tax season is a W2. This is the official form that employers use to report employee wages/income, bonuses and other benefits received during the year; along with taxes (federal, state, medicare and social) that were withheld during the tax year. It also shows voluntary pre-
- [Figuring Your IRS Taxable Income – Adjustable Gross Income (AGI) vs. Modified Adjustable Gross Income (MAGI) - From Your W2, 1099-Misc or Paycheck](https://savingtoinvest.com/figuring-your-irs-taxable-income-adjustable-gross-income-agi-vs-modified-adjustable-gross-income-magi/) - You would think that figuring your income that is subject to taxes would be easy. Unfortunately, with our overly complex federal tax system the IRS has multiple definitions of income and it’s important to understand the difference between these because not only can it affect how much you pay in taxes, but also determines what
- [If Salary and Living Expenses Were Covered, What Would You Do For a Living?](https://savingtoinvest.com/if-salary-and-living-expenses-were-covered-what-would-you-do-for-a-living/) - The title of this post was the basis for an MBA application question I recently answered. It really got my thinking about my career goals and aspirations. Here's my response to the question, followed by some thoughts. What do you think and how would you spend your life if money was not a factor? If
- [Money and Happiness - What You See May Be a Mirage](https://savingtoinvest.com/money-and-happiness/) - A while ago I came across a poignant article in the Wall Street Journal - You're Not Super Rich? You Lucked Out, by Jonathan Clements which got me thinking about this concept. Here are some excerpts from it that I think ring especially true. On the face of it.... We all swoon over nice and
- [Health Care Plans: 10 Tips on Choosing the Right Option](https://savingtoinvest.com/health-care-plans-10-tips-on-choosing/) - It's that time of the year again when your choice of health care insurance plans comes to the fore - Open Enrollment (OE). During OE you can change your health care coverage and flexible spending allowances for the year ahead without penalty or a qualifying "life-event". With health insurance premiums on the rise, it is
- [Open Enrollment and Employer Health Insurance - Making the Most Despite Fewer Benefits and More Expensive Premiums, Deductibles and Co-pays](https://savingtoinvest.com/open-enrollment-and-employer-health/) - It's that time of year again when workers have to review and are able to modify their employer sponsored health care insurance and other "fringe" benefits. Unfortunately as I reviewed my health care benefits it seems that my employer is providing less (like excluding Chiropractic benefits) but raising premiums, co-pays and deductibles - which was
- [Best Open Enrollment Choices as Health Care Insurance Continues to Rise](https://savingtoinvest.com/2011-2012-open-enrollment-choices-as-health-care-insurance-continue-to-rise/) - According to preliminary results from their annual survey of 1,600 employers, Mercer expects employee health care benefit costs to increase by 5.4% next year. You will likely see these costs via higher monthly premiums during your organization's open enrollment period. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to to mitigate the impact of rising
- [My Employer Once Again Hiked Health Insurance Premiums During Open Enrollment](https://savingtoinvest.com/my-employer-once-again-hikes-health-insurance-premiums-during-open-enrollment/) - It's that time of the year again. Open enrollment. It's also fall, but as this is a personal finance blog, weather is not the focus. My current employer, a Fortune 500 firm, recently released their employee contribution rates (i.e health insurance premiums) for it's employees and once again rates are rising. Their justification is that
- [Handling Debt Collection Calls and Stopping Creditor Harassment by Knowing Your Rights](https://savingtoinvest.com/handling-debt-collection-calls-and-creditor-harassment-by-knowing-your-rights/) - One of the worst forms of creditor harassment is relentless debt collection calls. For some people, the collection calls become so annoying that they are forced to change their phone numbers or even disconnect the phone altogether. Though the FDCPA (Fair Debt Collection Practices Act) has laid down clear guidelines to put an end to
- [Claiming The $15,000 First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit](https://savingtoinvest.com/2010-first-time-homebuyer-credit/) - Biden $15,000 Home Buyer Credit? President Biden’s housing agenda includes a proposal for a $15,000 first-time homebuyer tax credit. This is similar to the home credit provided over 10 years ago under President Obama (details below). The difference is that this credit is to help American's deal with home affordability vs the original credit was to rescue the
- [An ex-IRS Worker's Viewpoint on Tax Season Delays and All The Complaining!](https://savingtoinvest.com/an-irs-government-workers-viewpoint-on-tax-season-delays-and-all-the-complaining/) - I got the following longish comment on a recent article covering tax season delays/frustrations, from someone who may have worked at the IRS to retort all the negativity folks are putting out there this tax season due to extended delays with refund payments and processing beyond normal timelines. Interesting to see how government (IRS?) workers
- [Claiming Stimulus Checks (EIP) via Recovery Rebate Credits (RRC) in Your 2021 Tax Return Filed in 2022 - Avoid Getting Your Tax Refund Delayed](https://savingtoinvest.com/get-up-to-1100-for-babies-born-in-2020-claim-your-dependent-stimulus-in-2021/) - The IRS has stopped making catch-up or retroactive stimulus payments for individual adults and their dependents. Eligible tax tax filers who didn't get the full amount of the third Economic Impact Payments for themselves or their dependents (existing and new) must file a 2021 tax return – even if you don’t usually file taxes -
- [Investing After the Russian Invasion of Ukraine - Short Term vs Long Term Considerations](https://savingtoinvest.com/investing-after-the-russian-invasion-of-ukraine-short-term-vs-long-term-considerations/) - As everyone knows, Russia has launched a series of unprovoked attacks across the Ukraine. This is an evolving situation and likely to play out over several weeks. I want to first acknowledge that a global war and the likely humanitarian crisis for the Ukrainians is on top of mind and I hope for a quick
- [5 Tips for Paying Off Student Debt Faster Including via New Tax Breaks and Government Forgiveness Programs](https://savingtoinvest.com/5-tips-for-paying-off-student-debt-faster/) - Student loans has been a hot topic of late, which is not surprise given there are around 43 mil­lion Amer­i­cans dealing with some form of active or delinquent stu­dent debt. Based on reports from the WSJ and data company MeasureOne, Amer­i­cans owe around $1.6 tril­lion in fed­eral stu­dent loans and more than $130 bil­lion in
- [Tax Season and IRS Tax Refunds Being Processed (or Not) - Latest Updates and News](https://savingtoinvest.com/2018-tax-season-open-and-irs-tax-refunds-being-processed/) - Get the latest information on IRS refund processing and direct deposit schedules in this updated article. You can also see these articles for determining your IRS Cycle/Batch code and estimated deposit date via your official IRS tax transcript. The IRS expects more than 70% of taxpayers to get tax refunds this year. Last year, over
- [Tax Refunds – Are They Worthwhile or a Free Loan to the IRS?](https://savingtoinvest.com/tax-refunds-are-they-worthwhile-or-a-free-loan-to-the-irs/) - Many believe that income tax refunds are not beneficial to anyone but the government. By allowing more money than necessary to be deducted from your paycheck in taxes each week, these investors state that you are essentially giving the government (via the IRS) an interest free loan. Today, we will discuss tax refunds, are they
- [I Finally Got My Tax Refund in My Bank Account - But Millions Still Waiting For IRS to Process 2021 Returns and 2022 Refunds](https://savingtoinvest.com/i-finally-got-paid-and-got-my-tax-refund/) - Tax season 2022 is well underway and despite widely reported IRS backlogs and delays, some people say they’ve already received their refunds from the IRS. The average tax refund to date is just over $2200 for the current tax season. However this is still the minority and many news outlets reporting the well know fact
- [Earned Income Tax credit (EITC) Updates and News](https://savingtoinvest.com/2014-earned-income-tax-credit-eitc/) - See this article for the latest Earned Income Credit tables - including eligibility expansions and refund delays (due to PATH act) when claiming this credit in your tax return. _________ [2014 EIC Update] The IRS has released 2014 Earned Income Tax credit (EITC) details which are shown in the table below. There have been some minor increases to
- [Lowering Your Homeowners Insurance Costs In The Face of Rising Premiums](https://savingtoinvest.com/what-you-can-do-about-the-rising-cost-of-home-insurance/) - As many home owners have discovered, Homeowner's insurance premiums are becoming more and more expensive. This article covers some of the causes for its increase and which factors play the largest role in determining the price of premiums. Most importantly, we will also cover ways you can offset the cost of rising premiums, pick the
- [IRS tax refund 2022 and Why You May Not Be Getting Your Tax Refund Anytime Soon - System Processing and Payment Delays](https://savingtoinvest.com/why-you-wont-be-getting-your-2020-tax-refund-anytime-soon/) - 5 reasons your tax refund will be delayed
- [Is Crypto a Good Investment in 2022? 5 Factors To Consider Before Investing in Bitcoin, Ethereum or other Digital Currencies](https://savingtoinvest.com/to-crypto-or-not-5-factors-to-consider-before-investing-and-joining-the-cryptocurrency-craze/) - Unless you have been living under an "investing" rock, it is clear that all things Cryptocurrency (Crypto) are in vogue. And despite trying to be a long term "smart" investor it is hard to ignore the buzz and massive gains - sometimes daily - being seen with various Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum or the latest
- [Do I Need to File a Federal Income Tax Return? Maybe Not If You Meet These IRS Guidelines even Though it Could be a Good Idea](https://savingtoinvest.com/do-i-need-to-file-a-federal-income-tax-return-in-2016-2017-maybe-not-if-you-meet-these-irs-guidelines/) - [Updated Income Thresholds] The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) recommends that all adults file a tax return. Obviously, the IRS wants to have everyone pay their taxes but it is also an important way for the government to ensure that it pays out subsidies, stimulus payments and tax credits to the groups that they were intended
- [How Can I Get My Missing Dependent Child Credit or Past Stimulus Payments? IRS CTC portal and Latest Status For 2021-2022 Tax Refunds](https://savingtoinvest.com/got-my-stimulus-check-but-not-my-childs-500-payment/) - Despite three rounds of dependent stimulus checks and the advance monthly child tax credit (CTC) paid in 2021, many tax payers are still waiting to be paid and are relying on their 2021 tax filing to get missing payments for their eligible dependents. While retroactive payments were made or "caught-up" for stimulus checks, missing eligible
- [Capital Gains and Losses When Selling Stocks, Options or Crypto – Facts and Figures To Minimize Your IRS Tax Liability](https://savingtoinvest.com/capital-gains-and-losses-tax-facts-and/) - Here are some useful facts & figures to be aware of when it comes to capital gains and losses that result for a stock sale. Given the recent volatility and growth in trading understanding how your stock sales will impact your taxes will be critical to keep the gains you made or use your losses
- [Tax Filing Deadline and Due Dates - When You Can File Tax Returns and Get Your Refund](https://savingtoinvest.com/tax-filing-deadline-and-due-dates-when-you-can-file-tax-returns-and-get-your-refund/) - See this article for the latest federal tax filing deadlines. Generally you can paper file your tax return on January 1st of the following year. But if, like most tax payers, you file an electronic return (e-file) you can only submit your return to the IRS in late January, which is when the IRS starts
- [Saving $100 with Free Rapid at Home COVID-19 Tests](https://savingtoinvest.com/saving-100-with-free-rapid-at-home-covid-19-tests/) - A few weeks ago several members of my extended family posted on our family chat group that they were exhibiting COVID like symptoms. Given we just had met many of these family members at Thanksgiving I was alarmed when I read the message and like many in that group rushed out to get a rapid
- [Can I get Unemployment if I Have COVID (Omicron or Delta) and Cannot Work? Pre and Post Pandemic Unemployment Rules](https://savingtoinvest.com/will-i-lose-my-extra-unemployment-check-if-my-employer-reopens-or-got-a-ppp-loan-and-wants-me-back-at-work/) - With the expiry of pandemic unemployment programs (PUA, PEUC and $300 FPUC) and resurgence of COVID-Omicron cases, many workers are asking if they would qualify for unemployment if they are unable to work and/or face a full or partial loss of income. Under the Pandemic programs, the answer was YES - after all that was
- [How Will New Debt Collection Laws Impact Consumers?](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-will-the-new-debt-collection-laws-impact-consumers/) - When you are unable to pay debts or have debt that has gone to a collection agency it can be very stressful. The burden of a difficult financial situation is already anxiety-inducing without having to also worry about other issues. This can include questions about the legitimacy of the debt collector who reaches out or
- [How to Invest and Buy Cryptocurrency Like Bitcoin, Ethereum and Other Digital Coins - A Beginners Guide](https://savingtoinvest.com/bitcoin-ethereum-and-other-crypto-explained-for-over-50-investors-where-and-how-to-invest-in-digital-coins-and-currency/) - This article was inspired by a few of my older family members who have had a discussion that generally goes like this: "Andy, I am hearing that Bitcoin and Dogecoin [or insert any Crypto currently in vogue] are the place to invest and have been doubling almost weekly. Is this true and how do I
- [2022 Investing Considerations and Market Outlook For The Year Ahead - Stocks, Crypto, Bonds and Real Estate](https://savingtoinvest.com/investing-considerations-for-the-year-ahead-stocks-crypto-bonds-and-real-estate/) - As the calendar year comes to a close, investors are looking to diversify their portfolios and identify what to invest in next. With cryptocurrencies reaching historic highs, the real estate market surging, and an overall stock market pushing forward, we might just end one of the best performing years for investments in a decade. This
- [The Dow Hits All Time Highs – What This Means and Beware The Risks](https://savingtoinvest.com/the-dow-hits-all-time-highs-what-this-means-and-beware-the-risks/) - The market continued on its rampage reaching an all-time high, surpassing levels last seen before the 2008 financial crisis. This is despite Congress and the Biden administration squabbling about the impacts of additional spending and who would be blamed for a potential economic calamity due to the inefficiency of Washington. Looks like tax cuts (rises
- [How Does Your 401K Compare with retirement Account Balances Hitting Record Highs](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-does-your-401k-compare-with-plans-hitting-10-year-highs/) - With stock markets booming, it is little surprising that 401K retirement plan balances are at record highs. In a recent study covering 20 million participants across nearly 23,000 corporate plans, the nations largest retirement plan administrator Fidelity Investments, found that the average 401(k) account balance was over $129,000 last year, up 24% from from the prior
- [Calculating How Much Extra Tax You Will Owe When Tax Cuts Expire](https://savingtoinvest.com/calculating-how-much-extra-tax-will-you-owe-when-bush-tax-cuts-expire/) - In a recent town hall the President pretty much confirmed that the Trump tax cuts will not be extended for higher income earners, but will be for those earning less than $250,000. While most people won't be affected by these tax changes, there will be adjustments across all tax brackets and the marginal tax rate
- [How President Biden’s Recent Infrastructure Bill Can Help You (and Future Generations)](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-president-bidens-recent-infrastructure-bill-can-help-you/) - On November 15th, 2021, President Biden signed a $1 trillion infrastructure bill into law. Officially named the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, this bill contains a wide variety of measures intended to stimulate the economy, make improvements to the infrastructure system (think transportation systems, telecommunications networks, utilities, etc.), and provide a series of benefits intended
- [$100+ Gas! Making Money If Oil Prices are Rising or Falling](https://savingtoinvest.com/150-oil-buy-oil-or-short-oil-this-is/) - As a consumer I am constantly feeling the pain of rising oil prices whenever I fill gas in my car. As an investor though, I regret missing out on the run up in companies that benefited from higher oil prices. It seems that apart from energy related stocks all other equities are generally heading south.
- [Signs You Are Struggling With Going Back To Working In Person at the Office](https://savingtoinvest.com/signs-you-are-struggling-with-going-back-to-the-office-working-in-person/) - As the world gets back to a new normal after countless months of pandemic induced change many working professionals are finding it difficult in adjusting back to the way things used to be. In particular going into the office on a regular basis while trying to balance personal/life commitments has left many with a sense
- [The Bottom Line on What Not Getting Vaccinated Will Cost Unvaccinated Workers](https://savingtoinvest.com/the-bottom-line-on-what-not-getting-vaccinated-will-cost-you/) - Wherever you stand on the COVID-19 vaccination debate, there is little doubt that after January 4th the updated White House Guidelines around mandatory vaccinations will hit unvaccinated workers personal finances -whether they stay with their employer or quit. With more than 745,000 Americans having died from COVID and over 70,000 new cases per day there
- [Updated 401K, IRA Contribution Limits For 2021 vs 2022 Estimated Changes](https://savingtoinvest.com/2018-401k-and-403b-plan-contribution-limits-could-drop-precipitously-under-trump-republican-tax-reform/) - The IRS has released its latest cost of living adjusted retirement plan contribution limits and qualifying income thresholds for 2021. The table below shows the recent year over year changes. I have also listed expected 2022 changes based on my research and recent inflation figures (which also resulted in a 5.9% COLA increase). As expected
- [How US and Global Stock Markets Performed with an Outlook and Forecast for the Year Ahead](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-us-and-global-stock-markets/) - It was a year in which governments and central banks around the world took extraordinary measures to get their economies growing. While the bailouts and economic stimulus boosts that many countries employed may have had mixed results for it's citizens, the boost to stock markets was definitely real. The U.S. stock market ended the year with
- [Dollar Cost Averaging Myths](https://savingtoinvest.com/dollar-cost-averaging-myths/) - Dollar cost averaging (DCA) seems to be a hot topic of late with many experts saying to continue buying shares, even as they keep falling in price. For those of you who may not understand DCA, it basically means that you continue to buy more shares in companies that you already own as they fall
- [5 Things Your Teenager Should Be Doing Now to Make Money for The Future](https://savingtoinvest.com/5-things-your-teenager-should-be-doing-now-to-make-money-for-the-future/) - If you’re a teenager or just a parent of one, you may find earning cash can be quite difficult during the times we are in now. However the post pandemic world has also given us several new opportunities for teenagers to earn some actual income from a part time job or side hustle. Getting a
- [Creating Your Own Stimulus Check For Even More Free Money](https://savingtoinvest.com/create-your-own-stimulus-check-to-get-some-extra-free-money/) - The IRS recently reported that the bulk of economic stimulus check payments have now been officially distributed. And in many cases the funds have already been used by eligible recipients to buy necessities or splurge on electronics and toys to keep entertained while stuck at home. So for those who have used up their stimulus
- [Adjust or Change Your Paycheck Tax Withholding (W4) After These Personal and Financial Life Events](https://savingtoinvest.com/change-your-paycheck-tax-withholding-after-these-personal-and-financial-life-events/) - During the year many people have personal and financial life changing events that can affect how much they have to pay in taxes. But they often forget to adjust their income or paycheck tax withholding to cater for these events. This means they ending up owing taxes and associated penalties when filing; or missing out
- [Can I Make 401K or IRA to Roth IRA Conversions? What Are The New Rules and Income Limits](https://savingtoinvest.com/can-i-make-401k-or-ira-to-roth-ira-conversions-in-2012-and-2013-what-are-the-new-rules-and-income-limits/) - [2013 Update] With a deal to avert the fiscal cliff reached and legislated under the American Taxpayer Relief Act (ATRA) of 2012, a couple of significant employer sponsored retirement plan features have reappeared with some modifications. This includes the Roth 401(k) conversion and Charitable IRA contributions. You can read more about these updated provisions in this
- [5 Reasons I Max Out My 401k Retirement Account as Fast as I Can - The 25% Contribution Rule](https://savingtoinvest.com/5-reasons-i-max-out-my-401k-retirement-account-as-fast-as-i-can-the-25-contribution-rule/) - Every year around November when the IRS publishes updated 401k plan limits for the year ahead I set myself a goal to see how fast I can reach the maximum contribution limit. I am fortunate that I earn and save enough money to make the maximum pre-tax retirement account contributions, but even if you cannot get
- [Housing Market Outlook](https://savingtoinvest.com/2013-housing-market-outlook/) - My realtor who helped with buying my home a few years ago occasionally sends me newsletters on the state of the US housing market. For the most part this is marketing material looking for referrals and to keep her in mind if when I decide to sell or upgrade. But a recent newsletter she sent
- [Buying Long-Term Care Insurance To Save For The High Cost of Assisted Living](https://savingtoinvest.com/buying-long-term-care-insurance-to-save-for-the-high-cost-of-assisted-living/) - There’s a great deal of talk today about the “graying of America.” Thanks to advances in medical technology, many people are now living 20 or more years beyond normal retirement age. However, quite a few of these people must deal with poor health during those years. And, the increased longevity, coupled with expanded health care
- [Deficit Reduction Plan: Solve America's Debt Problem By Cutting Taxes, Social Security, Medicare and Federal Retirement Benefits](https://savingtoinvest.com/solving-americas-debt-problem-by-cutting-taxes-social-security-medicare-and-federal-retirement-benefits/) - To tackle America’s growing national debt problem, President Obama put together a task force earlier this year to look at options on how to cut government spending, implement tax reform and improve the effectiveness of federal entitlement programs. The deficit reduction commission co-chairs (Erskine Bowles and Alan Simpson) put forward a $3.8 trillion deficit-cutting draft
- [A Statistical Economic Recovery - Is America's Recession Really Over?](https://savingtoinvest.com/statistical-economic-recovery-is/) - As Mark Twain once said, "There are three kinds of lies: lies, damned lies, and statistics." To me, this nicely sums up recent economic figures that suggest America has escaped the clutches of another great depression and is on the way to a sustained recovery. Government reports say that GDP rose at an annualized rate
- [Tax Considerations in a Rising Government Spending and Tax Rates Environment](https://savingtoinvest.com/year-end-tax-considerations-in-rising/) - I've been reading a lot about the future tax implications given the large amounts of government spending and contracting corporate and consumer tax base. All this means is that tax considerations should play a much more central role in people's thinking as they're making critical financial decisions. At the end of the year several cornerstones
- [How to Deal With Higher Taxes With New Tax Laws](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-to-deal-with-higher-taxes/) - With the latest Democrat tax proposals, a growing national debt and continued increases in government spending, taxes are going up sooner or later. Despite all the political mutterings, rising taxes seem a certainty. Tax hikes will be rising to finance our high national debt and to pay for long term public obligations (such as medicare
- [Dave Ramsey, Suze Orman, and Other Financial Gurus – Is Their Advice Really Worth It?](https://savingtoinvest.com/dave-ramsey-suze-orman-and-other-financial-gurus-is-their-advice-really-worth-it/) - In today’s flip-flop economy, just about everyone has an opinion about what you should do with your money. From the din of these many opinions a few financial “gurus” seemed to have emerged. Some have become bona-fide celebrities by advising people on how to escape financial ruin, while making millions for themselves along the way
- [The 999 Tax Plan - How Herman Cain's Tax Reform Plan Would Affect Your Income Taxes](https://savingtoinvest.com/the-999-tax-plan-how-hermain-cains-tax-reform-plan-would-affect-your-income-taxes/) - R.I.P Herman Cain There has been a lot of news lately on Republican presidential candidate Herman Cain's 999 plan. As the new darling and front runner for the parties presidential nomination, Cain's tax plan has gone from a joke (e.g. the price of a pizza) to getting some serious, albeit critical, reviews. Here's what some
- [Will H&R Block, TurboTax and Other Online Tax Software Providers Help With IRS Refund Delays?](https://savingtoinvest.com/will-hr-block-turbotax-and-other-online-tax-software-providers-help-with-irs-refund-delays/) - On one of my more popular articles answering the question, "Where is my refund? " I got the following representative comments which was the genesis of the title of this post. So I thought I would take some time here to address the obligations of these online tax providers when it comes to dealing with delays
- [No Cash for Clunkers (CARS) Program Proposed to Support Auto Industry](https://savingtoinvest.com/cars-cash-for-clunkers-program/) - 2021 Update - Given the chip shortage and surge in new and used car prices, no government programs were put in place as part of the various stimulus packages to support the Automotive industry. There are however Electric Vehicle (EV) credits and tax breaks in the bi-partisan infrastructure bill. [2020 update] With the auto industry
- [Help for Unemployed and Under Insured Workers in the Latest Economic Stimulus Package](https://savingtoinvest.com/help-for-unemployed-and-under-insured/) - See the latest on unemployment benefit extensions. [2008 Stimulus Package] Continuing with my in depth coverage of "Your Money in the Stimulus" series, it is was good to see that the final version of President Obama's economic stimulus package retained benefits for the unemployed, disabled and under insured. With millions of workers facing a prolonged
- [3 Money Reasons to Buy a New Car - Tax Deductions, Used CAR Trade-In Vouchers and Electric-Hybrid Credits](https://savingtoinvest.com/3-money-reasons-to-buy-new-car-tax/) - If you are in the market to buy a new car or just looking for a reason to upgrade your existing car, then you could not have picked a better time than now. Apart from local and foreign automakers desperately cutting prices to stay in business or to revive flagging sales, the US government is
- [Final Economic Stimulus and Recovery Package - An American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan](https://savingtoinvest.com/obama-economic-stimulus-and-recovery/) - [Update Feb 12]. The Stimulus Plan has been finalized with agreement reached by both parties in Congress. House Speaker, Nancy Pelosi, released a fact sheet outlining the final elements of the stimulus package. [I have covered a number of these in separate posts]The conference report on American Recovery and Reinvestment Act currently being drafted will:·
- [Stock markets to Crash or Surge? Week to Week Changes of Opinion Make it Hard For the Average Investor](https://savingtoinvest.com/stock-market-crash-this-week/) - How fickle financial market pundits are. Just a few weeks ago many experts were saying that the worst of the economic slowdown was behind us and that company valuations were looking extremely attractive. In fact, a number of these so called experts were saying that people should even get back into financials and other distressed
- [Trading Stocks and Options with Robinhood - A Better and Cheaper Online Brokerage Option than E*Trade, TD Ameritrade or Fidelity](https://savingtoinvest.com/trading-stocks-and-options-even-cheaper/) - I have been a big fan of discount brokers, primarily because of their low to zero trading costs and easy to use online brokerage platforms. However it looks the low cost broker wars have intensified with a strong new player in the stock trading scene, who is winning the race so far – Robinhood. They
- [2012 Payroll Tax Credit Holiday Extended Till Year End. Extensions For Unemployment Benefits and Medicare Payments Also Approved](https://savingtoinvest.com/paycheck-impact-making-work-pay-credit-expiry-offsetting-payroll-tax-credit/) - [Updated- 2012 Payroll Tax Credit Holiday, Unemployment Benefits and Medicare Doctor Payments Extended to Dec 31st] With House Republican support Congress has passed legislation extending the federal payroll tax holiday through the end of the year without demanding spending cuts to pay for it. This was a concession aimed at averting another repeat of their
- [Will We Fall Off The Fiscal Cliff in 2013 - Impacts on Your Taxes and Finances](https://savingtoinvest.com/will-we-fall-off-the-fiscal-cliff-in-2013-and-impacts-on-your-finances/) - The Washington Post had two graphics that neatly summarize the impacts from the fiscal cliff. This is the number one topic in the world of finance and almost all Americans will be impacted by the potential fallout in some fashion. My opinion is that Congressional Republicans and the Obama administration will reach some form of deal by year-end to
- [Homebuyer Tax Credit Fraud Puts Pressure on Further Extensions](https://savingtoinvest.com/homebuyer-tax-credit-fraud-puts-pressure-on-further-extensions/) - As many readers of this site await to hear about a possible extension to the home buyer credit closing date, part of the latest Jobs and Tax Bill (HR4213), it was worrying to read some of the recently released IRS statistics on fraud surrounding the credit. The IRS doled out more than $27 million in
- [Solving the Housing Foreclosure Crisis by Cutting Mortgage Principal Balances – Big Mistake](https://savingtoinvest.com/solving-the-housing-foreclosure-crisis-by-cutting-mortgage-principal-balances-big-mistake/) - Mortgage interest rates are at their lowest point in decades (about 4.5%) and the housing credit has been in effect for more than three years, yet the housing market is tepid at best, with foreclosures at record highs and government housing institutions having to put more distressed assets on their books. This has spurred rumors
- [Before Buying Stocks: Your Pre-Investing Checklist](https://savingtoinvest.com/before-buying-stocks-your-pre-investing/) - As the stock market booms, many new and sidelined investors are getting tempted to jump back into the market. After all, you don’t want to look back in a few years and say, “If only, I had bought stocks then….” However, as past years have shown, the market can fall just as fast as it rises.
- [Average Monthly Social Security Benefits Change With COLA Increase](https://savingtoinvest.com/2013-average-monthly-social-security-benefits-change-with-cola-increase/) - See this article for the latest COLA increase - https://savingtoinvest.com/social-security-tax-and-cost-of-living-adjustment-cola The Social Security Administration (SSA) confirmed that the 2013 COLA increase will be 1.7%. This means that nearly 62 million Americans will see their benefit payments increase in January 2013, with the average retiree receiving a $21 increase. As detailed in the table below, retired couples will
- [Five Ways to Make Sure You Get the Most Social Security Income at Retirement – And What You Can Do About It Now](https://savingtoinvest.com/five-ways-to-make-sure-you-get-the-most-of-your-social-security-income-at-retirement-and-what-you-can-do-about-it-now/) - It’s hard to believe that Social Security has been in existence for over 75 years. During that time, however, it has become an income staple for many Americans, with nine out of ten people over 65 receiving benefits. Although Social Security provides benefits for other than just retirement income, those over age 65 depend on
- [2011 Updates - Tax Brackets and Rates, Government (GS) and Military Pay Scales, 401K and IRA Limits and Stimulus Payments](https://savingtoinvest.com/2011-updates-tax-brackets-and-rates-government-gs-and-miliary-pay-scales-401k-and-ira-limits-and-stimulus-payments/) - I have made a number of updates to popular topics on this site and in case you missed them, here is a quick recap with a link to the detailed information. 2011 Tax Rates and Brackets Following Bush-era Tax Cut Extensions With approval of a two-year extension to all the Bush-era tax cuts, the 2011
- [Taxing The American Middle Class and Rich - Fair or Not?](https://savingtoinvest.com/taxing-american-middle-class-and-rich/) - President Obama has released his latest budget and one of it's the hallmarks has been an increase in taxes on the "rich". This would be done by reinstating 10-year-old income tax rates of 36% and 39.6% for single Americans earning more than $200,000 and joint filers making more than $250,000 (currently 33% and 35%). In
- [2020 Payroll Tax Deferral - When Will It Start and How Much Extra in My Pay Check?](https://savingtoinvest.com/2020-payroll-tax-cut/) - Per Trump's order (see below) to suspend employee payroll taxes for 2020 and defer them to 2021, many eligible workers will enjoy a temporary boost to their paychecks in 2020. See this article for more details on how this is implemented per IRS guideline. The employee payroll tax break is equivalent to 6.2% of a worker's
- [You Actually Are Poorer Now Than You Were a Decade Ago](https://savingtoinvest.com/you-actually-are-poorer-now-than-you-were-in-2008/) - According to an analysis conducted by two former census bureau officials median income for the average American is still around 6 percent lower (after adjusting for inflation) than when the recession began. So if you feel poorer today than you did a few years ago you are not alone. The drop in income can be
- [3 Reasons The Booming Economy May Not Be Good News](https://savingtoinvest.com/3-reasons-the-booming-economy-may-not-be-good-news/) - The stock market is hitting new highs on a seemingly daily basis. The job market is rebounding strongly as evidenced by the plummeting unemployment rate. Market analysts are overwhelmingly saying buy stocks, sell bonds. All this implies the economy is positively booming and surely everyone is getting richer. Sadly this is not the case and
- [Can I Avoid Paying Taxes By Submitting an Extension to File My Tax Return](https://savingtoinvest.com/can-i-avoid-paying-taxes-by-submitting-an-extension-to-file-my-tax-return/) - The title of this article was based on the following email I received a couple of weeks ago. It's a topic that a number of people can relate to around tax time, so I also published my answer below. "Last year my wife was pregnant and took 4 months of work and she was getting disability.
- [5 Places to Get Free Tax Advice, Guidance and Help](https://savingtoinvest.com/5-places-to-get-free-tax-advice-guidance-and-help/) - A lot of families cannot afford to pay for professional help to get advice on taxes and/or to prepare their tax returns. While simple returns for low income earners can be filed for free with most large online e-File tax providers, those who have complicated financial situations or have moved states during the year can find
- [Options for Term Life Insurance Death Benefit Payouts](https://savingtoinvest.com/options-for-term-life-insurance-death/) - There are pages written about how to buy term life insurance, but very few devoted to death benefit claims and payouts. Sadly, this topic is so neglected, that awareness levels on this matter are very low. Term life insurance is the best kind of life insurance available today, and it would be a shame if
- [Five Factors to Consider Before Buying into a Franchise Opportunity](https://savingtoinvest.com/five-factors-to-consider-before-buying/) - A slumping economy and the prospect of prolonged unemployment has led many workers to consider going to business themselves and because of the perceived safety, brand name and established support structures, franchising is often a popular option. In fact rather than use their redundancy payouts to pay off a chunk of the mortgage and other
- [Quick and Practical Ways to Improve your Finances - Automatic Saving, Education, Refinancing to Tax Planning](https://savingtoinvest.com/5-quick-and-practical-ways-to-improve/) - NOW is always a good time to reassess your financial situation and try and determine how you can improve your personal finances. Based on my experiences and observations, here are five simple and relatively cheap strategies to improve your finances. All it requires is a little discipline and overcoming normal procrastination that is associated when dealing
- [Another Panic Monday as Dow and S&P 500 Crashes - Reactions and Actions](https://savingtoinvest.com/another-panic-monday-as-dow-nears-5000/) - I wrote a few months ago that the Dow index crashing was an outside possibility following the first wave of the credit crisis induced market panic. The Dow had fallen below 10,000 at that time and even I thought that 5000 was highly unlikely. But, it looks like the seemingly impossible is now going to
- [Leverage 101 – The Real Cause of Financial Crisis](https://savingtoinvest.com/leverage-101-real-cause-of-financial/) - Much of the past and current financial market crisis is blamed on two main factors – poor risk management by company executives and the ultra-depressed housing market. Company management is paying the penalty with most failed CEO's fired and years of lawsuits and regulatory probes ahead for implicated senior executives. The second factor, a depressed
- [Home Price Declines Catching up Globally](https://savingtoinvest.com/home-price-declines-catching-up/) - I wrote a while back on how the US was leading home price declines earlier this year. Looks like the world has caught up to this unfortunate trend and pushed the relative US declines to the middle of the pack. As the most recent IMF economic report shows, the US median home prices declined by
- [Simpler and Smarter Investing With a Low Cost Broad Market Index Fund Using Vanguard Or Fidelity](https://savingtoinvest.com/simpler-and-smarter-investing-with-a-3-index-fund-portfolio-choosing-between-vanguard-and-fidelity-equity-funds/) - After a volatile year of trading I have decided to streamline and simplifying my longer term investing strategy. In a nutshell this means going from holding a bunch of stocks, sector ETFs and mutual funds to just holding three low-cost index funds that provide the diversification and exposure I need. It is also a much
- [Why Rising Rates Will Boost Rather Than Lower Home Prices and Purchases](https://savingtoinvest.com/why-rising-rates-will-boost-rather-than-lower-home-prices-and-purchases/) - Thanks to recent announcements by the Federal Reserve around cutting back on buy back programs interest rates have been rising, with the forecast for even higher rates by year end. Based on the latest rates have been rising consistently of late with the 30-year fixed rate averaging over 4.1%. That's up from 3.5% a little more than
- [Foreclosure Rescue Scams - Coming to your Neighborhood](https://savingtoinvest.com/foreclosure-rescue-scams-warning-signs/) - It seems that wherever there is an easy buck to be made (or stolen in this case) scam artists are on the prowl catching unsuspecting victims in their deceitful webs of misinformation. Earlier this year the biggest scams being perpetuated were around the IRS stimulus checks. Now with the housing slump and resultant spike in
- [6 Car Insurance Discounts You Should Be Getting](https://savingtoinvest.com/6-car-insurance-discounts-you-should-be-getting/) - Not everyone is eligible for the long list of discounts that insurance companies offer. But there are some discounts that almost every driver can get. Here are six car insurance discounts you should already have or be trying to get. Multi-Vehicle Discount If you have multiple cars or share a household with multiple drivers, it
- [Record Home Price Drops May Signal Housing Market Bottom](https://savingtoinvest.com/record-home-price-drops-may-signal/) - Despite median home prices across the nation falling by 14 percent to $169,000, there are emerging signs that the housing market may be stabilizing and reaching a bottom. For new or would-be homeowners, mortgage rates below 5% and all the stimulus tax incentives have made buying a house much more affordable and attractive. And many
- [2016 Marketplace Health Insurance Plans & Prices Rising Under Obamacare (Affordable Care Act)](https://savingtoinvest.com/health-insurance-premiums-and-penalties-rising-under-obamacare-affordable-care-act/) - [2016 updates] 2016 health insurance premiums under the state and federal health care system (Affordable Care Act) are rising. No doubt about that. The question is by how much. Recent reports and have a broad range (from 6% to 15%) as health insurance companies have started submitting requests to the regulator (insurance commissions) for big price increases in
- [Making Money From the BP Oil Spill - Ambulance Chasing Lawyers, Adwords Advertising and T-Shirts](https://savingtoinvest.com/making-money-from-the-bp-oil-spill-ambulance-chasing-lawyers-adwords-advertising-and-t-shirts/) - The BP oil spill has been a non-stop news item and most people are probably tired of hearing and reading about this environmental disaster due to corporate negligence. I am not going to delve into the issue, but it was kind of morbid to read that people and companies are actually making money from this
- [A $630,000 Luxury Car and 2000 Buyers - The Rich are Back and Spending](https://savingtoinvest.com/a-630000-luxury-car-and-2000-buyers-the-rich-are-back-and-spending/) - Demand for luxury cars is returning around the world and especially in Wall Street as firms add jobs for the first time in two years and offer guaranteed payouts to attract top bankers. The return of big pay checks and even bigger bonuses (up 17 percent to $123,000 last year) has fueled demand for a raft of
- [2013 Business Tax Changes and Credits in Fiscal Cliff Deal Extend Small Business Jobs Act Tax Changes](https://savingtoinvest.com/2011-business-and-corporate-tax-rates-with-small-business-jobs-act-tax-changes/) - [2013 Small Business Tax Breaks Extensions] Congress and the Obama administration have reached an agreement that will extend a number of small business tax breaks through 2013 following the fiscal cliff deal which was legislated through the Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012. This includes: R&D credit extended: The Research and Development (R&D) tax credit was extended for another year and reinstated retroactively for
- [Good Reads: Déjà vu With Another Government Shutdown Looming and Unsettled Markets Set to Continue](https://savingtoinvest.com/monday-reads-deja-vu-with-another-government-shutdown-looming-and-unsettled-markets-set-to-continue/) - Busy week ahead as investors brace themselves for another wild ride in the markets. Personally, my 401K and investment portfolio have had their 2011 gains wiped out and are down over 10%. I keep telling myself not to sell in panic, but the fear of further falls is unsettling to say the least. Not helping is
- [10 Awesome Google Search Tips and Tricks to Improve Your Finances, Investing and Productivity Knowledge](https://savingtoinvest.com/10-awesome-google-search-tips-and/) - Google plays a big part in my life and my blogging business. Apart from it's Adsense publisher program which provides the bulk of this blog's income, Google's search engine provides the basis and background for a number of the topics that I write about. I am not alone with 70% of the world using Google
- [How You Can Get a 14% Effective Tax Rate Like Mitt Romney and Other Super-Rich Americans](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-you-can-get-a-14-effective-tax-rate-like-mitt-romney-and-other-super-rich-americans/) - GOP presidential candidate Mitt Romney and his wife paid a 14% effective income tax rate in 2010 on nearly $22 million of income. Given the marginal federal income tax rate for anyone making over $35,350 (single) or $70,700 (married) is higher than 15%, it is pretty clear that the Romney's are paying way below what
- [Rising Gold Prices - Fundamentals, Speculation or a Dollar-Inverse Play Driving Gold Futures](https://savingtoinvest.com/rising-gold-prices-fundamentals-speculation-or-a-dollar-inverse-play-driving-gold-futures/) - Gold futures surged to $1,013 an ounce last week, the highest closing price on record and the first above $1,000 since February. The advance resulted in another weekly gain with gold prices having climbed for four straight weeks. SPDR Gold Shares (GLD), a huge ETF that holds more gold than many nations have in their
- [Speed Camera Tickets - Hard to Beat Local and State Government Revenue Raiser](https://savingtoinvest.com/speed-camera-tickets-hard-to-beat-local/) - Doh! I just received a speeding ticket in the mail after getting booked by an automated speeding camera while driving through Maryland a couple of weeks ago. After doing some research on automated speeding cameras I found that more and more states (90%) are using fixed speeding camera's because they are much cheaper (than a
- [Golden Nations : Which Countries Hold The Most Gold Reserves](https://savingtoinvest.com/golden-nations-which-countries-hold/) - With gold prices soaring, it seems that even central banks around can't get enough of the yellow metal. Recent figures still show the US atop the list, but other nation's are rapidly catching up. After all, every central bank (and the International Monetary Fund) with a large holding of American debt is worried about capital
- [Things to Remember At Tax Time - Your Tax Preparation Checklist](https://savingtoinvest.com/things-to-remember-tax-time-your-tax/) - Thanks to the accounting folks at BConnect Inc, here is a straight forward tax preparation checklist that will save you time when you file with your accountant or before you start using tax software for self-filing. Tax preparation is faster, easier and more stress-free if you take a little time to get organized first and
- [2010 Taxes Filed in 2011 - Key Facts and What To Remember](https://savingtoinvest.com/2010-taxes-filing-in-2011-key-facts-and-what-to-remember/) - Tax season is almost here and it's important to think about your tax minimization and management strategies so that you save when filing. I will be publishing more tax related posts over the next few weeks (subscribe), but in the meantime here is a cool Tax Infographic with some interesting statistics and a helpful tax
- [FOREX 101 - How Foreign Exchange Currency Market Trading Works](https://savingtoinvest.com/forex-101-how-foreign-exchange-markets-forex-trading-works/) - You may know about stock markets but how about the foreign exchange market (FOREX)? If you’ve never heard of it, you should because it’s substantially larger than any single stock market. The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), for example, handles $153 billion a day in volume, but the foreign exchange market has a daily volume
- [Stimulus Checks - Eligibility and Missing Payments](https://savingtoinvest.com/no-second-stimulus-rebate-checks-1000/) - See this article for the latest on the stimulus check (economic impact) payments [Updated Dec 2010] The Making Work Pay tax credit expires on December 31, 2010. As a result: - The income tax withholding tables for 2011 will no longer be adjusted for the Making Work Pay credit. There is no longer an optional
- [Credit Card Reform: Penalizing the Good for America's Bad Personal Finance and Spending Habits](https://savingtoinvest.com/credit-card-reform-bill-penalizing-good/) - Following on his somewhat controversial article on the negative relationship between Religion and Money, guest author Tony Parker takes a cynical look at the recently enacted credit card reforms and why they make him angry. __________ What a surprise, the government has imposed even more regulations on what’s left of our financial industry. Really, why
- [Can You Afford to Start a Family? Important Financial Questions to Consider](https://savingtoinvest.com/can-you-afford-to-start-a-family-important-financial-questions-to-consider/) - Starting a family is a big step to take, this goes without question. This step manifests in many ways and one that is particularly noticeable is how having children can impact your finances. Children are a lot of things: lovable, inspiring, purpose-giving, and expensive. Some people think that buying a home is the largest investment they
- [Do I have to Pay Taxes and How Nearly 50% of American Households Pay No Federal Taxes](https://savingtoinvest.com/do-i-have-to-pay-taxes-and-how-nearly-50-of-american-households-pay-no-federal-taxes/) - To answer the first part of the question. The answer is yes you have to pay taxes. In fact despite all the conspiracy theories and constant political threats to shut down the IRS because, taxes are the law of the land. It is known as the Internal Revenue Tax Code, which is Title 26 of the
- [Health Care Bill Hits Married Couples Harder](https://savingtoinvest.com/health-bill-care-bill-hits-married/) - Did a double take when I read an article in the WSJ that said under the new health care reform bill in Congress, marriage (relative to unmarried couples) will cost you in terms of health care premiums. And quite significantly apparently. The built-in "marriage penalty" in both House and Senate health care bills has received
- [Help! Do I Have to Pay Back My First Time Home Buyer Credit](https://savingtoinvest.com/help-do-i-have-to-pay-back-my-first-time-home-buyer-credit/) - I recently received the following question from Brian on my post that detailed the many versions of the first time home buyer tax credit: I purchased a home in January 2009. This is my primary residence after having purchased my first home in March 2002. My CPA put me in for the $6500 tax credit,
- [Claiming the Small Business Health Care Tax Credit plus Employer Fines, Tax Credits and Employee Subsidies](https://savingtoinvest.com/health-care-reform-bill-impacts/) - [Updated] The IRS has released final guidance for small employers eligible to claim the new small business health care tax credit for the 2010 tax year. The IRS have also provide a one-page form and instructions for small employers to use for claiming the credit for the 2010 tax year. New Form 8941, Credit for Small
- [Tax Tips and Choosing an IRS Regulated Tax Return Preparer Subject to New Oversight, Testing and Continuing Education Requirements](https://savingtoinvest.com/tax-tips-and-choosing-irs-regulated-tax/) - With tax season well and truly upon us now a decision many have to make is to do their taxes via ever improving accounting software (like Turbo Tax) or go with a professional tax prepare for more complex returns. More than 80% of taxpayers use a paid tax preparer or tax software to complete their
- [Saving Money With a Government Backed Mortgage Through VA, FHA or USDA Loans](https://savingtoinvest.com/saving-money-in-2010-with-a-government-backed-mortgage-through-va-fha-or-usda-loans/) - The market for government loans is skyrocketing. More and more families are ready to settle down in their dream home, and government-backed mortgages seem like a way to make home ownership happen quickly and easily. Three loans programs in particular have become buyers’ favorites throughout the last few years: VA, FHA, and USDA loans. Whether
- [2011 Employee 2% Payroll Tax Cut Holiday For Social Security and Medicare. Making Work Pay Credit Not Extended](https://savingtoinvest.com/2011-employee-2-payroll-tax-cut-for-social-security-and-medicare-making-work-pay-credit-not-extended/) - As part of bush-era tax cuts extension legislation (Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010), a number of new tax breaks were made available. One was a temporary one year cut in employee payroll taxes, which funds Social Security and Medicare, of 2% during 2011. The current rate is 6.2%, which
- [2011 Tax Brackets - Updated IRS Federal Income Tax Tables and Income Thresholds](https://savingtoinvest.com/2011-tax-benefits-to-increase-with-updated-irs-tax-tables-and-income-thresholds/) - [Update] - See this article for 2012 and 2013 Tax Rates/Brackets The IRS has released its 2011 Tax Rates and Income thresholds following approval of the Bush-Era Tax Cuts. The latest 2011 IRS federal tax table is shown below with the following key tax changes: Personal exemptions and standard deductions will rise and tax brackets
- [Rental Property Tax Changes (Form 1099) and Foriegn Bank Accounts and Assets Disclosure Requirements](https://savingtoinvest.com/rental-property-tax-changes-form-1099-and-foriegn-bank-accounts-and-assets-disclosure-requirements/) - Two new tax changes were implemented in recent legislation that may affect a number of tax payers filing 2010 returns in 2011. One affects landlords who now need to disclose all payments made above $600. The other affects people with certain assets outside the US, who now have to formally disclose foreign holdings (like bank
- [Getting Help with Home Foreclosures as Filings Continue to Rise](https://savingtoinvest.com/getting-help-with-home-foreclosures-as/) - Foreclosure filings in the U.S. exceeded 300,000 for the sixth straight month as job losses that boosted the unemployment rate to a 26-year high left many homeowners unable to keep up with their mortgage payments. A total of 358,471 properties, or one in 357 households, received a default or auction notice or were seized last
- [How Our Tax Dollars Are Spent by The Government](https://savingtoinvest.com/where-do-our-tax-dollars-go-today-and-in-10-years/) - Ever wondered where all our federal tax dollars go? I did and a recent report from the center on budget priorities and policies (CBPP) provided a very nice graphic on how federal tax dollars are distributed. With all the political rhetoric that abounds around the national debt, excessive federal spending and the uncertain future of
- [Moving Words on Living Life in a Presidential Eulogy](https://savingtoinvest.com/moving-words-on-living-life-in/) - It's not often that you read an article and feel moved by the words. But this is what happened when I read President Obama's eulogy for Senator Edward M. Kennedy. The words conveyed the strong bond that President Obama had with this accomplished Senator, but I thought a couple of paragraphs in the eulogy had
- [Apartment Rental Tips and Considerations](https://savingtoinvest.com/apartment-rental-tips-and/) - With tough economic times and house prices plunging across the country, rental (apartment) living has become the norm for a number of people. Whether it is by choice or circumstance, apartment living has its own challenges and before you make the move here are some things to consider and tips to ensure that the move
- [I Want My Bailout Too and Here's Why](https://savingtoinvest.com/i-want-my-bailout-too-and-heres-why/) - With all the bailouts and emergency assistance many of America's corporations are getting from the US government, perhaps it is time we the consumer and tax payer get our fair share of the free money being handed out wily-nily. Here is a list of items I wish could I could be bailed out-of and the
- [Financial Crisis: Mark to Market Accounting Demystified](https://savingtoinvest.com/financial-crisis-mark-to-market/) - Of late there has been a lot of negative press around the accounting requirements for companies and the methods by which they have to value their assets. Some critics and company executives have even attributed the accounting requirements, and specifically the Mark to Market valuation method, as a major cause behind the rapid failure of
- [Tips on Purchasing a Disability Insurance Policy - Forgo it at your own Peril](https://savingtoinvest.com/tips-on-purchasing-disability-insurance/) - If you are like most people, disability insurance is not very high on your list when it comes to coverage you should have. Most workers take the standard (free or subsidized) disability insurance offered by their employer and if none is available, they simply forgo it. This is strange because the risk of disability is
- [Flexible Work vs Compressed Hours Schedules? Is Working From Home More Productive Than Being in The Office](https://savingtoinvest.com/working-from-home-is-more-productive-than-being-in-the-office/) - A few years ago working from home was relatively new and mainly something that technology or consulting companies offered. However, following the pandemic and with millions of workers effectively working remotely for over a year, the discussion of flexible working - which includes location and/or schedule flexibility - has become mainstream with most companies now
- [Unemployment Rate Drops and Jobless Claims Continue Falling As Benefits End - Updated News and Statistics](https://savingtoinvest.com/unemployment-rate-will-jump-into-the-teens-soon-making-the-600-uic-stimulus-payment-critical/) - Update July 2021 - The number of Americans filing new unemployment claims changed trend and increased for first time in several months, but layoffs are easing amid a reopening economy and a shortage of people willing to work. With unemployment benefits ending early in many states it is expected that claims will continue to fall.
- [Start Your Own Blog or Website To Make Some Extra Money and Generate Long Term Passive Income](https://savingtoinvest.com/5-steps-to-start-your-own-blog-or-website-to-make-some-extra-money-and-generate-long-term-passive-income/) - I’ve been blogging on and off for the last ten years while holding down a full-time job and supporting a growing family with the associated lifestyle inflation that comes with that. But one thing that has made me financially secure is that even if I didn’t have my job I would be able to have
- [Updated IRS Non-Filer Tool For Claiming 2021 Advance Child Tax Credit, Missing or Under Paid Stimulus Checks Including For Dependent Payments](https://savingtoinvest.com/treasury-to-provide-new-tool-and-guidance-to-claim-missing-or-under-paid-stimulus-checks-including-for-dependent-payments/) - [Updated with new IRS tool] The IRS has finally released their updated tool for non-filers to register for the soon to be paid Advance Child Tax Credit payments (see schedule here). Individuals and families who are not required to file a 2020 tax return or have not used this tool last year (for stimulus checks)
- [Combining Insurance Policies For Bigger Discounts and More Convenience](https://savingtoinvest.com/combining-insurance-policies-for-discounts-and-convenience/) - Buying auto insurance, whether it’s business auto insurance or private auto insurance, can prove to be one of the most exhaustive processes to go through, and can also prove to be one of the most expensive bills that you have as well. Consumers are constantly looking for ways they can reduce the cost of their
- [Top Ten Myths About Buying a Franchise From a Real Franchisee](https://savingtoinvest.com/top-ten-myths-about-buying-franchise/) - Generally most Americans over the long term are not happy working for someone else or being in the corporate rat race. So the idea of being your own boss and controlling your destiny is very appealing. Besides some of the many “get rich quick” schemes on TV, there is one type of business that seems
- [Virtual Administrative Assistants - Flexible Money Jobs](https://savingtoinvest.com/virtual-administrative-assistants/) - At a recent dinner party I was talking to a good friend whose wife had recently had twins, but was getting back into the workforce after only 6 months of having the babies. What was more was that she was able to do all this while staying at home and still have a relatively flexible
- [5 Insider Tips for Starting a Small Business](https://savingtoinvest.com/5-insider-tips-for-starting-a-small-business/) - I spend every day writing on the subject of personal finance. So it's rare that I get to discuss straight-up business tips. But because of the growth of this once little known blog, I'm now running my own legitimate small business. Below I present some tips I've picked up along the way. It's by no
- [How to Succeed in Business Over The Long Term](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-to-succeed-in-business/) - The value added column in the Washington Post highlighted the small business success story of Steve Fleishman, founder and president of Bethesda Bagel. He built the business from scratch to a franchise and manufacturing enterprise that delivers 15,000 bagels daily to 200 wholesale clients, that enabled him and his partners to draw six figure salaries
- [The Pros & Cons of Taking Out a Loan vs. Venture Capital](https://savingtoinvest.com/taking-out-a-loan-vs-venture-capital-the-pros-cons-of-both/) - With the economy and unemployment the way it is today, many folks are thinking about starting or growing their own small business. But this requires money to pay for things like employee’s salaries (you may be the only employee), offices, supplies, marketing and more. Entrepreneurs typically get their money from a range of sources including
- [How to Get and Qualify For a Small Business Loan (SBA 7a)?](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-to-get-and-qualify-for-a-small-business-loan/) - [Update] Under the recently enacted $2 trillion Coronavirus stimulus bill (CARE) additional financial help has been provided to small business in the form of expanded loan assistance programs by expanding the SBA section 7(A) act to guarantee loans up to $10 million. There are also provisions under the Paycheck Protection Program that allow the loan to
- [2012 Social Security and Medicare: Tax Rate and Maximum Taxable Earnings](https://savingtoinvest.com/2012-social-security-and-medicare-tax-rate-and-maximum-taxable-earnings/) - Most people who work or are self-employed are subject to Social Security taxes. This is true, regardless of age. Employers are also subject to Social Security taxes for their employees. If you are self-employed, and your business' net profit is greater than $400, you must also pay Social Security (and Medicare) taxes. Self employed workers have
- [US Real GDP By State and Per Capita Income Comparison](https://savingtoinvest.com/us-real-gdp-by-state-and-per-capita-income-comparison/) - The US Bureau of Economic Analysis has released the 2010 Gross Domestic Product (GDP) figures which showed a 2.6% average increase across the nation. As the graphic below shows 48 states and Washington DC experienced real GDP growth, led by the eastern seaboard states. Texas, North Dakota and Oregon were other states which had the
- [5 Things Your Financial Advisor Won’t Tell You](https://savingtoinvest.com/5-things-your-financial-advisor-wont-tell-you/) - Just like any other business minded person, financial (investment) advisors and planners are in it for the money – they have to make a living, and they’re doing it on your dime. Don’t ever doubt that they are terrific salespeople as well as financial advisors. So, taking their word as gospel would not be advisable.
- [Opening a Roth IRA for Your Non-Working Spouse - Eligibility, Income and Contribution Limits](https://savingtoinvest.com/opening-a-roth-ira-for-your-non-working-spouse-eligibility-income-and-contribution-limits/) - Can you open a Roth IRA for your spouse? This question comes up a lot among married couples with just one income. After all, one of the requirements for opening and funding a Roth IRA is earned income, right? And as a general rule, if you don't have taxable earned income as a result of
- [5 Reasons I am Buying Apple Over $500 and Before $1000](https://savingtoinvest.com/5-reasons-i-am-buying-apple-over-500-and-before-1000/) - On and off over the last 5 years I have been a holder of Apple stock (AAPL). While a simpler and probably more profitable strategy would have been to accumulate and hold the stock, I instead traded AAPL as it continued to rise and occasionally pullback. However, I am now going in for the long
- [Employer Tax Credit Stimulus to Create New jobs and Lower Unemployment - Good Idea or Bad Policy](https://savingtoinvest.com/employer-tax-credit-stimulus-to-create/) - The Labor Department reported recently that unemployment reached 9.8 percent in September, the highest level since 1983, and that 10% unemployment is likely by early next year. With record unemployment and a need to ensure the economy doesn't fall back into a recession, the Obama administration is considering the addition of an employer tax credit
- [Weekend Review: Dude - Where Are The Stimulus Jobs Gone?](https://savingtoinvest.com/weekend-review-dude-wheres-my-stimulus/) - When the $787 billion Economic Stimulus Bill – known as the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act – was signed, there was a promise to provide full transparency on it’s expenditure and to ensure that every dollar is tracked. Like so many earlier government promises, this one also is starting to look a bit flaky. CNN
- [Banks to Increase Dividends. Financial Stocks to Benefit Include JPM, BAC, WFC, GS, USB, STT and BNY](https://savingtoinvest.com/banks-to-increase-dividends-as-fed-lifts-dividend-increase-restrictions-strong-bank-stocks-to-benefit-jpm-bac-wfc-gs-usb-stt-and-bny/) - The Federal Reserve will soon allow banks with strong enough capital cushions to raise dividends, making them much more attractive to local and foreign investors. Only banks that satisfy new capital requirements from global regulators (Basel III) and domestic regulators (Dodd-Frank), will be able to raise dividends. The potential for a significantly increase dividend payout
- [New coupon delivery methods](https://savingtoinvest.com/new-coupon-clipping-methods/) - Smart Money brings us some novel new coupon delivery methods. These are quite interesting and innovative and shows that as times get tough companies are continually finding new ways to lure shoppers to their stores via coupons. Here are some of the methods highlighted leveraging technology to its fullest (and none of them require a
- [Replacing The $300 Extra Weekly Unemployment Benefits With a Back-to-Work Bonus 2021 Payment](https://savingtoinvest.com/replacing-the-600-fpuc-unemployment-benefit-with-a-back-to-work-bonus/) - With millions of Americans still unemployed and getting enhanced unemployment benefits, there’s been a lot of debate on whether the extended federally funded extra unemployment benefits ($300 FPUC, PUA and PEUC) are helping or hurting the post pandemic economic recovery. The argument is that the extra unemployment benefits, and the $300 extra weekly payment in
- [Top Dividend Stocks in a Down Market](https://savingtoinvest.com/top-dividend-stocks-in-down-market/) - Like most investors still braving this market I keep trying to find a safe place to invest that provides decent returns. With a stock market that seems to have many more down days than up days, it is hard to have confidence in future growth prospects. However with interest rates falling rapidly, saving money in
- [And you thought last Monday was bad - Economic Indicators signal major collapse ahead](https://savingtoinvest.com/and-you-thought-last-monday-was-bad/) - Last weeks 700 plus point drop in the Dow seems like a distant memory and a much bigger sequel looks to be in the works. The world has caught up to the US, and the domestic credit crisis has officially become a Global one. Who knew that struggling home owners in Flint, Michigan facing foreclosure
- [An Introduction to Trading Options Effectively](https://savingtoinvest.com/introduction-to-trading-options/) - This the second part of a series looking at understanding and trading options. The first post in this series looked defined key option terminology and ideas, while here I go into some basic trading strategies and patterns to improve your odds when trading options. You can see some of the concepts applied in recent trades.
- [Stock Market Volatility - Now is NOT the Time to Sell](https://savingtoinvest.com/stock-market-volatility-now-is-not-time/) - Today's bad economic news coupled with investor fear sent the stock market spiraling to a 5 year low. A sense of panic and fear seems to have entered the hearts of many investors, including myself, and the urge to sell and get out of the market is strong. But now is not the time to
- [Why you should be angry with the 2008 Housing Relief Bill](https://savingtoinvest.com/why-you-should-be-angry-with-2008/) - Over the weekend, Congress gave final approval to the housing relief bill that is aimed at helping thousands of struggling homeowners avoid foreclosure and to temper falling home prices. It also includes provisions to assist institutions that operate in the mortgage market, namely the Government sponsored enterprises (GSE) Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. The cost
- [The Beginning of the End for the Mighty US Dollar](https://savingtoinvest.com/beginning-of-end-for-mighty-us-dollar/) - It looks the rest of the world is getting tired of using the once mighty Greenback as it's reserve currency. Recent reports show that China and other emerging super powers have started seriously calling for the creation of a new global currency to eventually replace the US dollar. China, the largest foreign holder of US
- [Don't Trade Company Earnings For a Short Term Gain](https://savingtoinvest.com/dont-trade-earnings-for-a-short-term-gain/) - Short term traders love earnings season and much like all things investing, the opinions of what to do with earnings season are as varied as the direction of markets tomorrow. Although every trader says they're making money, are they telling the truth? Is trading during earnings season really a profitable venture? Let's narrow this down
- [Thank You American Express Fraud Protection Security Service](https://savingtoinvest.com/thank-you-american-express-card-fraud-protection-security/) - When checking my mail this morning, I saw an email from the American Express Account Security Group notifying me that I had received a suspect charge of $113.40. You can see the email below. The card they were referring to was my back-up American Express Blue Cash Everyday(SM) Card from American Express card that I
- [Falling For a $4000 Debit Card Phishing Scam](https://savingtoinvest.com/falling-for-4000-debit-card-scam/) - I received this email (edited for this post) from a reader about a debit card scam that is apparently real and spreading across the country. Just another sign of tough economic times as criminals go to extreme measures to make a buck by taking advantage of the unsuspecting and innocent. What was striking to me
- [Shrinking FDIC Fund Signals More Economic Pain Ahead](https://savingtoinvest.com/shrinking-fdic-fund-signals-more/) - Some worrying commentary from FDIC chairman Sheila Bair indicating that the economy and housing market are still a long way from recovered and that the potential run up in financial shares of late could just as easily reverse course in the later half of this year. The remarks were prompted by the falling value of
- [Setting up My Small Business Home Office](https://savingtoinvest.com/setting-up-my-small-business-home/) - I recently incorporated my first company. It has one employee - me - and its only asset is this website. But it was a great feeling to officially become a small business owner, thereby joining 15 million other Americans. The reason for incorporation was primarily driven by the taxation benefits as I detailed below, but
- [The Week That Was - Luxury in the Sky and Around the Blogosphere](https://savingtoinvest.com/week-that-was-luxury-in-sky-and-around/) - Despite the woes of the domestic aviation industry, a new type of plane is finally coming into mass service across the globe. Airbus' much publicized and long delayed A380 hit the skies down under in Australia this week. Singapore Airlines was the first to launch earlier this year, and Dubai based Emirates airlines start services
- [Working and Living in Dubai - Is All That Glitters Gold and What Expats Must Know](https://savingtoinvest.com/working-and-living-in-dubai-is-all-that/) - Dubai, the shining light of the Middle East, is going gangbusters. It has enjoyed two decades of rapid growth, going from a small desert city to a western society representation of the riches the Arab world has to offer. The economic growth has fueled strong demand for foreign workers and they have been coming in
- [Here we go again - Financial Crisis, Chapter 13](https://savingtoinvest.com/here-we-go-again-financial-crisis/) - The financial media are again harbingers of more doom and gloom today, citing a Barron's article and host of so called "experts" predicting that the financial crisis is not only far from over but could actually get much worse, bringing more big shocks to the US economy and stock markets. Among the predictions: the failure
- [Will Biden's Budget Plans Help the Poor by Taxing the Rich?](https://savingtoinvest.com/will-obamas-budget-plans-help-poor-by/) - One of the corner stones in President Biden's recently announced $3.6 trillion budget was to raise taxes on the rich in order to cut the budget deficit and fund many of his ambitious programs over the next decade. The prime focus of his tax reforms were the richest 2% of Americans who have household earnings
- [10 Easy Ways to Boost Your Retirement Savings Starting Now](https://savingtoinvest.com/10-ways-to-boost-your-retirement-savings-starting-now/) - With longer life expectancies, a roller coaster stock market, and lessons learned from a post-pandemic world it’s more important than ever to find ways to boost your retirement savings now. Although there may be many obstacles to doing so, even just a few of the simple tactics outlined here can go a long way to
- [Five Positive Economic Signs to Cheer](https://savingtoinvest.com/five-positive-economic-signs-to-cheer/) - With all the doom and gloom headlines splashed across the financial media it is no wonder that everyone thinks we are headed for the next great depression with little hope of a recovery. Yet there are definitely some positive economic signs out there amid all the negative press - you just need to look past
- [Best Brokers For Opening a Traditional IRA or Roth IRA](https://savingtoinvest.com/best-companies-and-brokers-for-opening-a-traditional-ira-or-roth-ira/) - If you are looking for a common and highly effective way to cut your tax bill for this year and/or the next, then consider opening a Traditional IRA or Roth IRA before the IRA contribution deadline. The following brokers have great offers for those looking to open or transfer an IRA account in the near
- [Final House and Senate GOP Tax Reform Bill For Trump Tax Changes](https://savingtoinvest.com/comparing-gop-and-trump-republican-tax-changes-for-2018-and-2019/) - House and Senate Republican (GOP) lawmakers have passed a reconciled/final bill for President Trumps Tax Reform measures under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. These proposals are aimed at building on Trump’s promises to streamline the US personal and corporate tax code. The plans promise tax savings of nearly $1,500 to $2,500 for an average
- [Banking on a Rally for a Quick Trading Profit](https://savingtoinvest.com/banking-on-rally-for-quick-trading/) - Financial stocks have taken a battering over the last week with steep falls across the board, including the big banks such as Citigroup (C), Bank of America (BAC) and JP Morgan Chase (JPM) which have all fallen more than 25% to record lows. The reasons behind the falls are primarily due to a re-emergence of
- [Over Contributed to Your 401k, IRA or Roth IRA? How to Correct Excess Contributions To Avoid a Tax Penalty](https://savingtoinvest.com/check-for-ira-and-roth-ira-excess-contributions-to-avoid-a-6-tax-penalty/) - The article below shows what options you have if you mistakenly over contributed to your employer 401k plan or IRA. Over Contributed to Employer Sponsored 401(k) Plan Firstly, congratulations on having reached your annual maximum contribution. But over contributing to your 401k (or IRA plan as discussed below) subjects you to the potential of double taxation and/or a penalty. An
- [Financial IQ: Test Your Basic Financial Knowledge With This 10 Question Money Quiz](https://savingtoinvest.com/financial-iq-test-your-basic-financial-knowledge-with-this-10-question-money-quiz/) - All of us think we know a thing or two about money, but really how good is your financial knowledge? Take this quick quiz to get a gauge of where you stand when it comes to basic financial concepts (answers and ratings are at the end). Q1: Sam earns $2,500 per month working at Home Depot. Who pays
- [Social Security Tax Rate and Withholding - SSI Limits, Coverage, Retirement Earnings and Benefit Base Limit Changes](https://savingtoinvest.com/2011-social-security-income-ssi-contribution-retirement-earnings-test-and-benefit-base-limits-changes-from-2010/) - Updates - See here for the latest COLA increases by year____________ The Social Security Administration has officially released the Social Security and SSI information against the background announcement that there will be no cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) increase next year. The zero COLA adjustment means the monthly Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits will
- [Oil's Temporary Respite](https://savingtoinvest.com/oils-temporary-respite/) - As oil prices drop the sense of relief is palpable for most consumers as they see sub $3 gas at he pump. Media headlines have also done an abrupt about turn, with headlines changing from "When will crude hit $200..." to "How fast can oil prices come down..". The 20% fall this month has many
- [Who Does the Finances and Money Management in Your Household?](https://savingtoinvest.com/who-does-finances-in-your-household/) - I do in my household. Doing the household finances is something I don't mind, apart from seeing all the bills which means money going out the door. I also do the budgeting, taxes and investments. I have a natural affinity for all things finance, a reason I write this blog, and my wife thinks all this
- [How Your Financial Life Will Change After Marriage – 7 Important Money Decisions to Consider](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-your-financial-life-will-change-after-marriage-7-important-money-matters-to-consider/) - So you’re getting married? Congratulations! Decisions about churches, colors, the bridal party, and which family/friends to invite often become choices that take center stage but there are other, less glamorous considerations that have a much longer lasting impact. Those considerations involve financial matters. While the most common subject of marital conflict is money, premarital counseling
- [US Citizenship and Immigration - Saving Money and Tips on the Application process (Without Hiring an Immigration Lawyer)](https://savingtoinvest.com/us-citizenship-and-immigration-saving/) - Submitting my US Citizenship papers was a big step for me as I adopted this country as my permanent home. Something I feel very proud to do. It had taken about 7 years since I started the immigration process to finally becoming eligible and submitting for citizenship, with the biggest hassle (and cost) being all
- [Your Car - An Asset or Liability?](https://savingtoinvest.com/your-car-asset-or-liability/) - When calculating your net worth, do you include your car as an asset? What value do you assign to it and what about all the running and insurance costs? According to accounting definitions, a car can only be classified as an asset if its current value is greater than what you owe on it (car
- [Losing those office perks in corporate cutbacks](https://savingtoinvest.com/losing-those-office-perks-in-corporate/) - A less serious, but widespread fallout of tough economic times for American companies has been the cutting of employee perks and benefits to lower operating costs. Working in corporate America myself, I can attest to some of these cutbacks first hand and I know more are coming down the line as cutting costs is becoming
- [Bringing Kids to Work or Not - Good Idea or Career Limiting Move](https://savingtoinvest.com/bringing-kids-to-work-or-not/) - One of my colleagues brings her kids to work on days that schools or their day-care is unexpectedly closed. Her kids are about 5 and 7, and she brings either one or both depending on the circumstance. I would say on average, she brings the "kids to work" about 7-10 times a year. Overall the
- [Saving Money on Calling Costs Via VOIP Phones](https://savingtoinvest.com/saving-money-on-calling-costs-via-voip/) - As a relatively new small business owner working from home, one of the money saving technologies I have been looking into is VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) telephony. A broadband or VoIP phone is like a regular phone except it uses high speed Internet to make calls at a fraction of the cost. A number of companies
- [Beware COVID Stimulus Scams for IRS Tax Data, Bank Payment Information and Personal Details](https://savingtoinvest.com/beware-irs-stimulus-email-scam/) - [Update] - With the multi-round Coronavirus stimulus relief payments being paid out based on past year(s) tax return data (or SSI payment data), there has been a spike in emails, text and telephone scams where criminals are purporting to be from the IRS or Treasury asking for you to provide SSN and payment (bank) details.
- [Rollover 401(k)s to an IRA - Why and How](https://savingtoinvest.com/rollover-old-or-multiple-401ks-into-an-ira/) - Things are different now. Decades ago when you took a job, you stayed with that company for a long time, often for life. Today, studies show that the average American holds over eight jobs between the ages of 18 and 45. Because of that, many are asking the question during job transitions, “what do I do
- [Understanding Options - The Comprehensive Reference Guide for Beginners](https://savingtoinvest.com/understanding-options-comprehensive/) - Over the last 10 years I have traded all sorts of financial instruments. One that I have found particularly useful in volatile times like we have now, are options. Options provide a way to make money from both rises or falls in stock prices. It is also allows you to implement risk management strategies to
- [Taxes and Social Security on $100,000 Around The World](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-much-taxes-you-pay-on-100000-and-social-security-you-get-around-the-world/) - Saw an interesting graphic in the Economist depicting the approximate amount of taxes (net of offsets) governments around the world collect on $100,000; about the middle class average income level in developed countries. This is compared to the amount of social security (or safety net) the government provides to its workers. The logical argument for
- [How Long Will it Take To Become a Millionaire?](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-will-it-take-to-become-a-millionaire/) - If you are an American, the answer is about 20 years. For Mexicans it's over to 300 years. As you can see from the graphic below, based on a country's median income, America still provides the best opportunity for the average Joe to get to millionaire status within their lifetime. The calculation for the table below is rather
- [How to Avoid Hefty Credit Card Interest and Fees via Good Habits and Knowing Your Rights](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-to-avoid-hefty-credit-card-interest-and-fees-via-good-spending-habits-and-knowing-your-rights/) - Using credit cards has become a way of life for many of us. For the most part, credit cards do offer a convenient way to make purchases, and they enable us to walk around without mounds of cash in our pockets. In return for this and other conveniences like reward programs, however, there can also
- [Why I Procrastinate and What To Do About Overcoming It](https://savingtoinvest.com/why-i-procrastinate-and-what-to-do-about-overcoming-it/) - We all procrastinate and it is the number reason for us not doing the things we want to get done. I am also guilty of procrastinating on things that I should have done. In this post, I will explore the reasons why I procrastinate, highlight some stuff that I have procrastinated over and also share
- [5 Easy Ways to Save Money](https://savingtoinvest.com/fw-easy-ways-to-save-money/) - If one of your resolutions was to save money, you probably prepared yourself for a long year of penny pinching and bargain hunting. But saving more doesn't have to be such hard work and in fact if you make it a habit its much easier to maintain for the longer term. Here's five easy ways
- [Why I Hate Shopping at Walmart](https://savingtoinvest.com/why-i-hate-shopping-at-walmart/) - Occasionally my wife will drag me along to go shop at our local Walmart. Normally this is in response to a big sale event they are having, where she has identified something that is a great deal and can't be found elsewhere. However every time I go there I think, " Why did I come
- [How Long Should I Keep Tax Records, Medical Bills, Financial and Bank Statements](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-long-should-i-keep-tax-records-medical-bills-financial-and-investment-statements/) - Like me I am sure you get tons of bills and statements in the mail or delivered electronically. Most times you just action and then toss them. But you may in fact be creating legal or tax issues by not keeping certain documents. Where possible you should try and retain a hard copy and electronic version
- [Junk Mail Revenge - How To Make Them Pay](https://savingtoinvest.com/junk-mail-revenge/) - I get so much junk mail nowadays - Credit Card Offers, Investment/Real estate flyers, Magazine offers, etc - that it is sometimes hard to find the real mail amongst all the junk. I read somewhere that by reducing your junk mail for 5 years, you’ll conserve 1.7 trees and 700 gallons of water, and you’ll
- [Hacking Social Security Numbers and How to Protect Your Identity](https://savingtoinvest.com/hacking-social-security-numbers-and-how/) - According to a recent journal article published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, it is possible to use publicly available data on state and date of birth to predict someone's Social Security number, particularly if they were born after 1988 and in smaller states. The ability to use statistic inference to predict
- [2017 and 2018 Trump Economic Stimulus, Tax Breaks and Credits for Individuals, Corporations and Investors](https://savingtoinvest.com/2017-and-2018-trump-economic-stimulus-tax-breaks-and-credits-for-individuals-corporations-and-investors/) - With Donald J. Trump now America's 45th president many are now asking if he can bring around the economic change promised while on the campaign trail. A lot of people voted for him as a change agent and from an economic point of view at least are hoping he can bring back opportunity to millions
- [Presidential Advice from the Economy to Health Care](https://savingtoinvest.com/president-advice-from-economy-to-health/) - I think we can all agree on is that the time for words is over. It is all about action and execution now. Here are the key focus topics our President should be considering. The Economy The number issue on the minds of most Americans is the failing economy and the direct impact it is
- [FDIC Going Broke and Why Bank Fees will Keep Rising](https://savingtoinvest.com/fdic-going-broke-and-why-bank-fees-will/) - Here's a worrying byline on many levels: Federal Deposit Insurance Corp (FDIC) Chairman Sheila Bair said that the deposit insurance fund used to protect bank account holders could be insolvent this year, unless the agency imposes additional fees on the industry amid a surge in bank failures. The first thought that runs through my mind
- [Real Tax Deductions That May Surprise You](https://savingtoinvest.com/real-tax-deductions-that-may-surprise/) - Now I am not talking about the tax deductions that you may have forgotten about or read in the main stream media during tax time, I mean the deductions you really may not have ever known about. Here are just some examples of legal tax deductions that I am talking about: .Start up Costs: If
- [April is financial literacy month - teaching personal finance to the masses](https://savingtoinvest.com/april-is-financial-literacy-month/) - ""It takes less credentials to be a mortgage broker than a pimp on a street corner in Harlem.....Because a pimp needs references." The Economist published an article about the need to educate the world about personal finance. On a much smaller scale that is one of the goals for this blog and so the article
- [Are You Using These 10 Online Financial Security Measures?](https://savingtoinvest.com/are-you-using-these-10-online-financial/) - Like a number of you, I regularly get official looking emails asking me to verify my user name and password details by clicking a link which takes me to a site that looks something like my bank's actual site. In today's cyber-age these type of scams and phishing emails are growing and unfortunately new victims
- [A Look At The Capital One 360 High Interest Online Savings Account](https://savingtoinvest.com/hsbc-versus-ing-direct-online-savings/) - I recently received a reader question asking me which high yield online savings account is better - the one from HSBC or Capital One's 360 savings account? I had previously written about the appropriate use of high yield savings accounts (HYSA) and in uncertain times, like now, they are a good place to hold your cash for potential
- [The End of Free Checking and How to Avoid Monthly Account Fees](https://savingtoinvest.com/the-end-of-free-checking-and-how-to-avoid-monthly-account-fees/) - Free checking is coming to end thanks to new Financial reform regulation that will force banks to cut overdraft and ATM fees, which traditionally covered the cost of providing free checking accounts. Bank of America and Wells Fargo, US banks with the largest branch networks, have already started to discontinue free checking accounts for new
- [Retirement 401k and IRA Accounts - Have You Rebalanced and Reallocated based on Changing Market Conditions and Contribution Limits?](https://savingtoinvest.com/retirement-401k-and-ira-accounts-have/) - I recently checked my Vanguard 401K account and was very pleased to see that it was up 20% in the last quarter! Still well down from high late last year but at least it's moving in the right direction now. However, my return could have been even greater had I re-balanced a bit earlier on
- [Am I Saving Enough For Retirement? How Much You Should Be Putting Away in 401K or IRA Accounts](https://savingtoinvest.com/am-i-saving-enough-money-for-retirement-and-how-much-you-should-be-putting-away/) - Nothing is more significant over the long term from a financial planning aspect than ensuring you are setting aside and investing a sufficient amount of money to take care of your monetary needs in retirement. This can be easy to put off, especially if retirement is far away and taking care of your personal finances
- [Does the Stock Market Feel Rigged?](https://savingtoinvest.com/does-the-stock-market-feel-rigged/) - It’s hard to believe that the stock market keeps rising every day while we are still in the middle of a pandemic, dealing with record unemployment and in the midst of a national political divide that could have serious implications for the nation in the years ahead. For most Americans, especially those adversely impacted by
- [Getting Low-Cost Auto Insurance Rates - Five Things To Look For With Insurance Companies](https://savingtoinvest.com/five-things-to-look-for-in-gettting-low/) - Low cost auto insurance rates are available everywhere, as companies cater to people trying to cut costs wherever they can. Unfortunately, not all insurance companies are equal, and low insurance rates can turn into a big future hike if you do not know what to look for or what to avoid. It is a good
- [Comparing MBA Graduate School Costs Across Full Time, Part Time and Executive Programs](https://savingtoinvest.com/comparing-mba-graduate-school-costs-across-full-time-part-time-and-executive-programs/) - A Master of Business Administration, or MBA, can be earned in a variety of ways through part-time, full-time, or in executive MBA programs. Each type of program has its own pros and cons, as well as a myriad of tuition and fees, depending on the school chosen. The varying types of MBA programs have arisen
- [How to Choose the Right Annuity Payout Option for Retirement](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-to-choose-the-right-annuity-payout-option-for-retirement/) - When approaching retirement, it is essential that you incorporate strategies that will keep your retirement income flowing in. And, with medical technology and new medicines helping to keep people alive longer these days, it is even more essential that your retirement income stretches well into the future. One way to accomplish this is by purchasing an annuity. Annuities
- [Itemized Deductions and Pease Personal Exemption Phase-out Income Limit Changes Under Biden Plan](https://savingtoinvest.com/itemized-deductions-and-personal-exemption-phase-out-income-limit-changes-to-adversely-affect-millions-of-taxpayers/) - Under the latest Biden tax proposals, there is talk of restoring the the tax benefit limitation of itemized deductions to 28 percent of value for those earning more than $400,000. The proposal would also restores the Pease limitation on itemized deductions for taxable incomes above $400,000 that is discussed below and eliminated under the Trump
- [Is a Market and Economic Bottom on the Cards](https://savingtoinvest.com/is-market-and-economic-bottom-on-cards/) - The Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index, based on a representative sample of 5,000 U.S. households, declined even further in June. In recently released figures the index now stands at 50.4 (1985=100), down from 58.1 in May. The (outlook) Expectations index also declined to 41.0 from 47.3 in May. Consumers' assessment of present conditions grew dimmer
- [Are You Missing Out on Cheaper Auto Insurance? Implement the Switch to Save Strategy](https://savingtoinvest.com/are-you-missing-out-on-cheaper-auto-insurance-implement-the-switch-to-save-strategy/) - Tis' the holiday season and that means sales everywhere you look. This includes sales and discounts in the ultra-competitive auto insurance industry, where with only a few minutes of online clicking and typing you could literally save hundreds on your next auto insurance policy. During the holiday season auto insurance companies really ramp up their advertising and
- [7 Signs You Are Heading for Long Term Financial Ruin](https://savingtoinvest.com/7-signs-you-are-heading-for-long-term-financial-ruin/) - In discussions with my readers and from what I see online I am constantly amazed at how low a priority folks give their finances. Yes, it is unpleasant to deal with hard money issues. Taxes are a drag. Changing bank accounts for a marginally higher yield is a pain. There never seems to be enough
- [Questionable Home Appraisals Worsening Real Estate Market Sales](https://savingtoinvest.com/questionable-home-appraisals-worsening/) - New rules for home appraisers implemented a few months ago following the housing market meltdown are causing buyers/sellers, realtors, home builders and mortgage companies further pain in the already depressed housing market. Not only are appraisal costs going up for home buyers, but nearly 60% of home builders are running into problems with appraisals and
- [I am NOT Going to Cut Back on My Morning Cup of Coffee](https://savingtoinvest.com/i-am-not-going-to-cut-back-on-my-cup-of/) - Many personal-finance sites and authors talk about the need to cut your day-to-day expenses so that you can boost your savings. Good simple advice, but some who propose concepts like the obligatory measure of eliminating your daily cup (or two or three) of coffee and investing what you would have spent on it - are
- [Health Insurance Tax Credit Extended Through 2021 Under Biden Stimulus Package covering COBRA Subsidy and Obamacare (ACA) Recipients](https://savingtoinvest.com/health-insurance-relief-under-biden-stimulus-package-for-cobra-and-obamacare-aca-recipients/) - Under the now approved Biden administration’s nearly $2 trillion stimulus package, also known as the American Rescue Plan (ARP), provisions have been added to provide relief for lower income and middle class Americans to save on Health Insurance if they are out of a job, and on COBRA benefit from their employer or getting insurance via
- [Home Mortgage Refinancing Plan. Finally a Good Idea](https://savingtoinvest.com/home-mortgage-refinancing-plan-finally/) - In an attempt to help struggling American homeowners, the U.S. Department of Treasury, HUD, the Federal Housing Finance Agency, Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae and the Hope Now Alliance recently outlined a plan to avoid "preventable" foreclosures. Households that have missed three or more mortgage payments may receive assistance through refinanced mortgages with lower interest rates
- [Looking Beyond the Monthly Payment Saving and Calculating the True Cost of Your Mortgage Refinance](https://savingtoinvest.com/refinancing-myth-looking-beyond-the-monthly-payment-and-calculating-the-true-cost-of-your-refinance/) - Mortgage lenders often attract homeowners seeking to lower their mortgage interest rate with some simple math, usually presented in one of two ways: 1) Comparing the nominal closing costs to the total savings from 30 years of a lower monthly payment, or 2) How few months it will take before you break even with your
- [Tax Refund vs. Stimulus Check - Which One is Being Paid Faster or Delayed Longer by the IRS?](https://savingtoinvest.com/tax-refund-vs-stimulus-check-which-one-is-being-paid-faster-or-delayed-longer-by-the-irs/) - With one of the busiest tax seasons on record the IRS is caught between paying out the latest round of stimulus payments - $1400 per adult and $1400 per qualifying dependent (and this time adult dependents are included) - and processing 2020 tax refunds for millions of tax filers. The clear answer to the question in the title of
- [When Will Non-Filers Including Veterans, Retirees, Social Security, SSI & SSDI Recipients Get Third $1400 Stimulus Checks and Dependent Payments?](https://savingtoinvest.com/veterans-retirees-disability-to-automatically-get-stimulus-checks-status-and-eligibility/) - Under the now approved $1.9 Trillion Biden Stimulus Package, or American Rescue Plan (ARP), there are provisions included for another round of stimulus checks. The amount being paid for this third round of stimulus “checks” is $1400 for each adult and qualifying dependent, Non-filers, or those who have not filed a recent tax return due to being below
- [Where is my Stimulus Check? Latest Status and Updates and News on Payment Delays via Direct Deposit, Check and Debit Card](https://savingtoinvest.com/why-didnt-we-get-our-correct-2020-stimulus-check-payment-faqs/) - [Third Stimulus Payment Update] The IRS has started paying the recently approved third stimulus check (economic impact payment) for adults and their child dependents. As expected there are many who are seeing issues, especially non-filers. Their main IRS status tool - Get My Payment - is now up and running but several are still seeing an in-process status
- [Calling the IRS for Stimulus Check Payment Issues or Checking the Get My Payment Tool vs. Getting Through to a Live Agent](https://savingtoinvest.com/help-how-can-i-contact-someone-in-the-irs-to-discuss-my-stimulus-check-payment-issues/) - With payment now having started for the latest round of stimulus checks, many people are seeing issues with their payments, especially around getting the higher dependent stimulus payment. The IRS have stated there is no action required by eligible individuals to receive stimulus payments and will be done in several batches. Given the rapid rollout
- [COBRA Health Care Premium Subsidy in Biden ARP Economic Stimulus Package](https://savingtoinvest.com/cobra-health-care-premium-reductions/) - Under the Biden administration’s nearly $2 trillion stimulus package, also known as the American Rescue Plan (ARP), provisions have been added to provide relief for many Americans to save on private health Insurance if they are out of a job, and on COBRA benefit from their employer or getting insurance via Obamacare (Affordable Care Act) through
- [Biden American Rescue Plan (ARP) - The Final Stimulus Package in 2021](https://savingtoinvest.com/will-there-be-more-stimulus-checks/) - President Joe Biden’s $1.9 trillion stimulus proposal called the American Rescue Plan (ARP) has now been passed in Congress. It contains several provisions to help small business, local governments and low and middle class households. This includes additional economic impact payments (a.k.a stimulus checks) and a further extension of unemployment benefits. You can see more details in this article.
- [Working Reduced Hours but Making too Much For State Unemployment and Extra Stimulus Payment (#UIShole)](https://savingtoinvest.com/working-reduced-hours-but-making-too-much-for-state-unemployment-insurance-and-so-may-not-qualify-for-the-600-stimulus-payment-uishole/) - Received the following comments from some higher income people who have fallen into what I call the Unemployment Insurance Stimulus Hole (#UIShole). Yes, I know how it sounds and it is intentional because people who face this situation probably want to use a word that rhymes with #UIShole for the politicians that passed the enhanced
- [When Should You Start Saving for Your Child's College Education? Right Now.](https://savingtoinvest.com/when-should-you-start-saving-for-your-childs-college-education-right-now/) - A set of three couples sit around an oval table, discussing the future of their newborns. A father asks, "Has anyone actually started saving for college yet?" One parent cries, "Ugh not me." Another parent tries to explain, "No, no you got time." But then the "smart" couple confesses and says, "On no. We've actually
- [Where to Invest $50,000 - Stocks, Gold or Real Estate](https://savingtoinvest.com/where-to-invest-50000-stocks-gold-or/) - I received the following email from a reader, Justin, asking me where I would invest in the current market given all the turmoil. Here is part of the discussion that formed the basis for this post, and my thoughts on investing for the year ahead: Original Email from Justin: I'm a new reader of your
- [Repay Your Mortgage up to 7 Years Earlier By Making Extra Payments versus 401K or IRA Contributions](https://savingtoinvest.com/repay-your-mortgage-up-to-7-years/) - We all want to get out from under our massive mortgage debt. So what is the best way to pay off the mortgage quicker – and not significantly impact your ability to retire? The answer is a variation on the good old “Pay every two weeks instead of once a month” approach. Increasing the number
- [How To Prepare for Tax Increases Next Year In this Sluggish Economy](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-to-prepare-for-tax-increases-next-year-in-this-sluggish-economy/) - We are more than halfway through the year and yet many major economic indicators are still showing the economy is not recovering as many would have hoped. Consumer confidence numbers showed that only 3% of people want to buy a car. These numbers are interesting considering previous tax credits targeted both these sectors. So what
- [6 Things You Should Be Doing With Your 401K and Individual Retirement Accounts](https://savingtoinvest.com/6-things-you-should-be-doing-with-your-401k-and-individual-retirement-accounts/) - When the economy and stock markets tanked many people stopped contributing to their employer sponsored 401K or self managed IRA plans. However, with markets back up strongly and the economy improving, folks must not forget to restart or continue saving for their financial futures. This includes taking the following actions: 1. Start saving —Now! Why?
- [Target Date Funds - A Good Retirement Strategy For Those With Limited Time and Investment Expertise](https://savingtoinvest.com/target-date-funds-a-good-retirement-strategy-for-those-with-limited-time-and-investment-expertise/) - Target date funds are mutual funds that are professionally managed with asset allocations and risk profiles set to change along a glide path reflecting your target retirement date. For example you would be buy a 2050 target date fund if you expect to retire around the year 2050. Or put another way, Bill who is
- [How To Navigate Through Your Retirement (401K or IRA) Investment Options](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-to-navigate-through-your-401k-investment-options/) - Trying to find the right investments for your 401k or IRA retirement plans can leave you feeling like you are lost in the middle of a maze. Your retirement plan provider (via your employer or directly) may offer a ton of investment options including stocks, stock funds, bond funds, and exchange traded funds. With so
- [Federal Income Tax Bracket Tables and Standard Deduction Changes](https://savingtoinvest.com/2010-tax-brackets-and-standard/) - See this article for the latest IRS tax brackets. Federal Income Tax Rate and Brackets and various tax benefits will remain unchanged or change only slightly over 2009 levels as shown in the table below. Consumer Price Index (CPI) data released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), used by the IRS in calculating 2010
- [The Best Retirement Plans for Young Workers And How Much You Should Be Contributing](https://savingtoinvest.com/the-best-retirement-plans-for-young-workers/) - It's not breaking news that you should be saving for retirement. Most employed people understand this fact, so hopefully, you are setting some cash aside for your golden years despite your day to day living expenses. The tricky part of retirement financial planning is figuring out how much you should actually save and where it
- [Understanding Annuities: Why They Should Be Part of Your Financial Plan For Retirement](https://savingtoinvest.com/understanding-annuities-why-they-should-be-part-of-your-financial-plan-for-retirement/) - Annuities have been a viable investment option for many years. However, there is still a great deal of confusion on what exactly they are and how exactly they work. Understanding the concept of annuities can help you to determine if they are right for you, and if so, what type is best for your retirement
- [Latest 401K, IRA and Roth IRA Contribution and Income Deduction Limits](https://savingtoinvest.com/2012-401k-ira-and-roth-ira-contribution-and-income-deduction-limits/) - See this updated page for the latest 401K, IRA and Roth IRA contribution limits. [Updated with 2012 details] 2012 tax advantaged retirement plan contribution limits have officially been released by the IRS, with slight increases over 2011 limits; due mainly to cost of living adjustments (COLA). Further with increases in income phase-out thresholds, more people
- [The A to Z of Good Personal Finance](https://savingtoinvest.com/a-to-z-of-good-personal-finance/) - Here is literally the A to Z of good personal finance rules that I try to live by. Think of it like my saving and investing philosophy. Writing this list provided a good opportunity for some introspection and I have already identified a few things I need to do to get back on track. I
- [The Next Economic Stimulus Payment - When Will it Come and How Much Will I Get? Latest News and Updates](https://savingtoinvest.com/when-is-next-stimulus-payment-coming/) - [October Pre Election Update] Millions of Americans are desperately asking, "when will the next stimulus check payment arrive?" However due to the ongoing Congressional stalemate around compromising on a comprehensive stimulus package, the payment of another stimulus check in 2020 continues to be delayed. There have however been some promising movements of late however with
- [Congress Funds Government But No Agreement on Funding More Stimulus or Unemployment Extensions](https://savingtoinvest.com/congress-funds-government-but-no-agreement-on-more-stimulus-or-unemployment-extensions/) - Congressional leaders have reached an agreement to continue funding the government until December 11th, to ensure this does not become an election issue and required agencies are in place to support outcomes. Unfortunately the short term spending bill passed did not include anything on funding additional stimulus payments or unemployment benefits. This is especially frustrating
- [How Individuals can Control and Cut Health Insurance Costs](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-individuals-can-control-and-cut-health-insurance-costs/) - There has been a lot of debate over health care reform the past year and how to control rising health care costs. While many experts are unsure whether the passed health care legislation will actually control costs, Americans can still work to control their own medical costs by shopping around for the most cost effective
- [How Much Do Americans Make? Breakdown by State Household Median Income](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-much-do-american-households-make-every-year-breakdown-by-state-median-income/) - Is $68,000 considered a good income that you and your family can comfortably live on? Probably not in most places, but this is roughly the median income of the average American household in 2019 (before the pandemic!). Or stated another way - 50% of households make less than this amount, while 50% make more. But income
- [9 Million Americans Missing Out On Their Stimulus Check Payment in 2020](https://savingtoinvest.com/9-million-americans-missing-out-on-their-stimulus-check-payment-in-2020/) - The IRS has announced that approximately nine million Americans who typically don't file federal income tax returns may be eligible for, but have not registered to claim their 2020 stimulus. They are still encouraging people to file a tax return (see free options at TurboTax) or register on the IRS site by this years extended
- [A 2020 Payroll Tax Deferral Holiday Raise Followed by a Pay Cut in 2021](https://savingtoinvest.com/a-2020-raise-for-those-making-less-than-100000-followed-by-a-cut-in-2021-with-trumps-payroll-tax-deferral-holiday/) - With Trump's executive order to suspend employee payroll taxes for 2020 and defer them to 2021, many eligible workers will enjoy a temporary boost to their paychecks in 2020. However assuming no other pay increases or tax rate changes, those same employees will see smaller paychecks early next year as participating employers have to withhold
- [Mortgage Refinancing in the Age of the Pandemic](https://savingtoinvest.com/mortgage-refinancing-in-the-age-of-the-pandemic/) - Mortgage rates are at a record lows fluctuating right around 3%, down from nearly 7% in 2008 - so is it time to refinance your mortgage? With all the uncertainty the pandemic has brought refinancing your mortgage may be a significant financial lever for a lower monthly payment or to take out some equity from
- [World Wealth Report : Millionaires Multiply while Middle Class Incomes Stagnate](https://savingtoinvest.com/world-wealth-report-ten-million/) - 2020 Update I posted the update below 12 years ago. President was just sworn in and America was in the middle of the great financial crisis. With the release of 2020 world wealth report, I thought it would be interesting to look at how the rich have got richer and how most of us middle
- [Causes of Unemployment Due to COVID and Housing Fallout](https://savingtoinvest.com/causes-of-unemployment-due-to-covid-and-housing-fallout/) - Over half of American households experienced a loss of income since mid-March from the pandemic induced slowdown and another 35% expect to lose unemployment income in the next 4 weeks. That was a finding from a Census Bureau study summarized in Bloomberg, which looked at anxieties that COVID-19 has brought in its wake. Specifically on
- [The housing crisis and wealth decimation](https://savingtoinvest.com/housing-crisis-and-wealth-decimation/) - "I just sold my house and lost $100,000...""I can't sell my house after 12 months, even after lowering the price by 30% ""I am going to go broke if I can't sell my house....""Why can't the government fix this housing crisis...""I thought a house was a safe asset that went up over time....."These are all
- [Privacy Policy For Saving to Invest](https://savingtoinvest.com/privacy-policy-of-saving-to-invest/) - We respect your privacy and we are committed to safeguarding your privacy while online at https://savingtoinvest.com/. We will not rent, sell, lease, or give away any of your personal information. The following discloses the information gathering and dissemination practices for this web site. By using the site, you accept the practices described here. This Privacy
- [Are Trump's Executive Orders to Suspend Payroll Taxes, Extend Extra Weekly Unemployment Benefits, Defer 2020 Student Loan Payments and Continue Eviction Moratoriums Legally Valid?](https://savingtoinvest.com/are-trumps-executive-orders-to-suspend-payroll-taxes-extend-extra-weekly-unemployment-benefits-defer-2020-student-loan-payments-and-continue-eviction-moratoriums-legally-valid/) - Over the weekend President Trump signed a series of executive orders expanding certain Coronavirus economic relief provisions, following the inability of Congress (Republicans and Democrats) to reach a deal on a new stimulus bill. The executive orders cover the following four key items, which are likely to be challenged in the courts given doubts over
- [Overcoming the Get-it-now, Pay-For-It-Later Mind-Set That Has Permeated The Nations Young](https://savingtoinvest.com/overcoming-get-it-now-pay-for-it-later/) - This post's title was drawn from a recent USA today article which looked at the debt issue plaguing our younger ("Y") generation (20's to 30's) Interestingly, while the recession exacerbated their financial issues the cause is much more due to Generation Y's mindset and poor personal finance habits. There were some startling statistics from the
- [IRS Has Fixed Stimulus Payment Issues For Non-Filers Getting $500 Dependent Child Economic Impact Payment](https://savingtoinvest.com/irs-has-fixed-stimulus-payment-issues-for-non-filers-getting-500-dependent-child-economic-impact-payment/) - The IRS has now resolved glitches on the non-filer portal for those who did not file a tax return in 2018 or 2019, which was used as the initial basis for determining eligibility for the $500 Dependent Economic Impact Payment (a.k.a. stimulus check) approved under the CARES act. Non-filers were redirected to the IRS Non-filers
- [Impact by State From Delays in Extending the Extra $600 Unemployment - Claimants could see a 200% cut in UIC Weekly Benefits](https://savingtoinvest.com/impact-by-state-from-delays-in-extending-the-600-unemployment-claimants-could-see-a-200-cut-in-uic-weekly-benefits/) - Congressional Republican leaders have announced that an extension of the extra $600 weekly unemployment benefit likely won’t happen by the end of July when it is scheduled to expire. This will likely be a big blow to the millions of unemployed Americans who depend on the additional federally funded weekly payment, that comes on top
- [Being Laid Off? Negotiate That Severance Package](https://savingtoinvest.com/being-laid-off-negotiate-that-severance-package/) - Just about anything involving money is a source for negotiation, but many people don’t think about the fact that their severance package is as well. Although we don’t want to think about that day when we may be laid off, it’s important to be prepared to negotiate our compensation package. Especially if you’re in a
- [Life Insurance Reality Check – Do You Have Enough For a COVID World?](https://savingtoinvest.com/life-insurance-reality-check-do-you-have-enough/) - My neighbor and I were talking this weekend and he asked me this question, "Andy, do you think I have enough life insurance coverage from my employer, given Coronavirus/COVID risks if I have to start going back to work next month? Don't want my kids to be homeless if something happens to Janet or I
- [Dividend Reinvestment Plans (DRIPs)- A great investment](https://savingtoinvest.com/dividend-reinvestment-plans-drips-great/) - I have received a lot of good and bad financial advice over the last few years and it is hard to categorize which advice was the best. However, one piece of advice that does come to mind and which I received early in my investing days, is to ensure I reinvested my dividends rather than
- [Investing Lessons to Live By](https://savingtoinvest.com/investing-lessons-to-live-by/) - Here are some of John C. Bogle's, former CEO of the Vanguard Group and founder of the "index" fund, timeless investing lessons and market philosophies. I know it reaffirmed some of my changing views around investing and saving for retirement. 1) Beware of market forecasts, even by experts. As the new year begins, strategists from Wall Street's major
- [How Do I Go About Investing in Mutual Funds Cheaply](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-do-i-go-about-investing-in-mutual/) - The title of this post was based on a question I recently received from a reader - Ben - who was new to equity investing and wanted to get some basic advice on investing in the stock market. He has about $5,000 to kick start his portfolio and wanted a simple, low-cost way to invest
- [Last Minute Tax Tips](https://savingtoinvest.com/last-minute-tax-tips/) - I just finished doing my taxes! A great feeling, especially now that I am expecting to get a refund. Having completed my taxes, here are my top tips to make sure you get the most from your return: Set aside 3-4 hours one afternoon to do your taxes online and sort through the associated paperwork.
- [Seven Ways to Avoid Banks Taking Your Money in Fees and Charges](https://savingtoinvest.com/avoiding-bank-fees/) - We have all read about and surely experienced the ever increasing fees and charges that banks and other financial institutions charge us. In the US alone, $36 billion in bank fees were charged last year to consumers. 1. Monthly Account Keeping or Service Fee The most common fee you pay for an organization to manage your
- [Which Major Companies Are Each Hiring more than 5,000+ New Workers](https://savingtoinvest.com/which-major-companies-are-hiring-more-than-5000-new-workers-this-summer/) - With millions of Americans unemployed and many coming to this site to get information on enhanced unemployment benefits, I thought it would be helpful to provide some positive news around several companies that have publicly announced that they’re implementing massive hiring plans over this summer as the economy and consumer spending rebound following the Coronavirus
- [Highest Paying Jobs and Occupations](https://savingtoinvest.com/highest-paying-jobs-and-occupations/) - Have you ever wondered which jobs pay the most? Well the BLS took out some of this guess work and summarized the results into the graph below. While most of us won't ever get into one of these high paying jobs, you can at least aim to get into occupations and jobs with the best
- [21 Signs You Are an Unmotivated (and Somewhat Unethical) Employee](https://savingtoinvest.com/21-signs-you-are-an-unmotivated-and-somewhat-unethical-employee/) - Today, with the crappy economy and tough job market many employees are stuck in a job that they detest but need to keep to pay their bills. This makes them unmotivated to do more than the bare minimum and sometimes even display unethical behaviors. Here are 21 signs, in no particular order, that you are
- [Will Markets Crash or Boom? 5 Things You Can Do Stay in The Money](https://savingtoinvest.com/will-markets-crash-or-boom-5-things-you-can-do-stay-in-the-money/) - The graphic to the right, showing the top stories on MarketWatch recently, reflects how mixed views on the market outlook really are. Some experts predict a continuing boom, some a crash and some both. No wonder retail investors like you and I are confused on what to do. Stock market volatility seems to be on
- [Job Outlook and Prospects: The Usual Suspects and Some Surprises](https://savingtoinvest.com/job-outlook-and-prospects-for-2011-the-usual-suspects-and-some-surprises/) - There is little more on the minds of college students or those considering getting a higher education degree than what occupation will offer decent career opportunities after graduation. Some look at income, and others look toward landing that first job and paycheck. Others look longer term to find a job with a defined career path
- [Best Job Prospects, Occupations and Professions in the Next Decade](https://savingtoinvest.com/best-job-prospects-and-employment/) - I wrote this article (see update below) over 10 years ago on the best jobs for the next decade. It was based on the US BLS data and ended up being pretty accurate. So with the current unemployment situation I thought I would refresh this article based on what is being forecast by the BLS
- [Bailout Nation and Future Impacts](https://savingtoinvest.com/bailout-nation-and-future-impacts/) - To save our economy and the financial future of America, the US government is taking over our financial system by changing the rules and becoming the backstop for all the junk in the current financial system. While this may save our skins in the near term I think it is going to put America in
- [Comparing and Signing Up For the Most Cost Effective Private Health Insurance Plan](https://savingtoinvest.com/comparing-and-signing-up-for-the-most-cost-effective-personal-private-health-plan-options/) - The rising cost of health care coupled with many employers cutting back on benefits has led to a large number of people having to go out into the market place and find their own private health insurance plans to meet their coverage needs. In addition to being more costly than standard employer sponsored plans, the
- [Top 10 Movies About People Trying to Get Rich](https://savingtoinvest.com/top-6-movies-about-people-trying-to-get/) - Money doesn't buy happiness? Tell that to Hollywood where money is business and box office receipts are what matter! In all seriousness, the old saying might be true, but it doesn't stop most of us from trying. And, so here are the top ten movies about people trying to get rich, and in many cases what they find is
- [Signs When to Sell a Losing Stock](https://savingtoinvest.com/signs-when-to-sell-stock/) - It is very easy to buy a stock. Selling a share or stock though, especially if it has lost value, is a much harder process because of the emotions involved. Knowing when to sell a stock, and actually doing it, is tough and that is why most people like to buy and hold stocks. The
- [What are Current 401k and IRA Contribution and Income Limits](https://savingtoinvest.com/2014-401k-and-ira-contribution-and-income-limits/) - See this updated article for the latest 401(k) and IRA Contribution, Eligibility, Income and Tax Deduction Limits The IRS has released updated 2014 limits for defined contribution (or pension) plans such as 401(k) and IRAs. This was delayed from the usual mid-October release due to the government shutdown. The annual limits are tied to Cost of Living
- [A Second 2020 Stimulus Check Supported by Trump and Democrats (HEROES act)](https://savingtoinvest.com/a-second-2020-stimulus-check-supported-by-trump-and-democrats/) - House democrats, led by Speaker Nancy Pelosi, have passed (208 to 199 on May 15) another stimulus bill in Congress, called the HEROES act, which includes a new round of stimulus check (economic impact) payments of $1,200 per individual and $2,400 for couples. This is the same as the current round of stimulus checks being
- [Will Coronavirus (Covid-19)  Impacts Delay my 2019-2020 Tax Refund Due to IRS Processing Slowdowns](https://savingtoinvest.com/will-the-coronavirus-delay-my-2019-2020-tax-refund/) - (This is a live article that is updated regularly) As the Coronavirus impact widens we are already seeing major hits to the real economy that will take the US into a recession in 2020 and into 2021. While stock markets are falling rapidly (don’t panic and sell!) people should start expecting governments to focus on
- [Why Buy Life Insurance and Choosing the Right Option](https://savingtoinvest.com/why-it-is-important-to-buy-life-insurance-and-choosing-the-right-option/) - We’ve all heard that we should have life insurance but few of us take the time to learn about it and even fewer purchase a policy. The reason is obvious: We don’t want to seriously think about the conditions surrounding our own death. We don’t want to believe that there is a chance that our
- [Life Insurance - Whole versus Term and Choosing the Right Option](https://savingtoinvest.com/life-insurance-whole-versus-term-and/) - As I get older and my family grows, one question that comes to mind is, “will they manage if something happens to me? Particularly from a financial aspect.” I can’t do much to prevent the emotional impact, but I want to ensure that my family will not suffer financially if something should happen to me.
- [Life Insurance: Why It’s Important and How to Choose the Right Policy](https://savingtoinvest.com/life-insurance-why-its-important-and-how-to-choose-the-right-policy/) - Few people enjoy the idea of discussing how much life insurance they need and what the ideal policy is for them. However, the truth is that having a good life insurance policy in place is very important. In fact, it can make the difference between your loved ones being able to move on, or simply
- [Auto Insurance Coronavirus Refund Credits via Premium Decreases and Rebates](https://savingtoinvest.com/auto-insurance-coronavirus-refund-credits-via-premium-decreases-and-rebates/) - [Update] - I got my policy rebate today! It’s paid monthly but still nice to see some money back in my bank accounts. As part of our Apron Relief Program, we issued you a premium credit on 05/11/2020. Your credit amount was $17.84. This amount represents a 20% credit of your premium for the month of
- [$600 Extra Unemployment and 13 Week Unemployment Extension Status and Payment Schedule](https://savingtoinvest.com/senate-approves-extra-unemployment/) - Under the recently enacted $2 trillion Coronavirus stimulus bill (CAREs act), federal funding will be provided to extend existing state administered unemployment insurance (UI) coverage for up to 13 weeks (Pandemic Unemployment Assistance) and will be bolstered by up to $600 per week (FPUC) over current state maximums over the next four months (end of July 2020).
- [Funding the Stimulus Packages and Business Bailouts by Printing Money and Issuing Debt](https://savingtoinvest.com/funding-bailouts-by-printing-money-and/) - I wrote this article way back in 2008 following the last major stimulus package and bailouts from the Global Financial Crisis (GFC). It scary how much this applies to 2020 following over $4 Trillion of new stimulus packages to rescue the American economy from the Coronavirus induced slowdown. Just replace Trump with Obama and increase
- [Should I Cash In My Frequent Flyer Miles if Airlines Are Heading Towards Bankruptcy Due to Coronavirus COVID-19](https://savingtoinvest.com/should-i-cash-out-my-frequent-flier-miles-if-airlines-go-bankrupt-due-to-coronavirus-covid19/) - I fly a lot for work and have frequent flyer miles with several airlines around the world. I know the airline industry is being devastated now with all the coronavirus induced travel bans. But I was surprised when I got the following note from Virgin Airlines - You may be aware that some of the
- [The Fourth Stimulus Bill Does NOT help Lower Income Individuals and Unemployed Who Are Left Out in Favor of Business](https://savingtoinvest.com/the-fourth-stimulus-bill-does-not-help-lower-income-individuals-and-unemployed-who-are-left-out-in-favor-of-business/) - [April 22nd update] The Republican controlled Senate has now passed a $484 billion coronavirus bill for small business and Coronavirus related hospitalization and testing. This is in line with the earlier update below, with the following changes; $310 billion to the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) for small businesses.$120 billion to the SBA Aid and disaster
- [Skipping Payments On Your Mortgage, Auto Loan And Credit Cards Due to Coronavirus Lay-offs and Hardship](https://savingtoinvest.com/skipping-payments-on-your-mortgage-auto-loan-and-credit-cards-due-to-coronavirus-lay-off/) - Under the recently enacted CARES act that is providing $2 trillion in federal bailout funding financial institutions like mortgage companies, banks and online lenders now have to allow people who have lost their job or seen a significant reduction in income to make reduced payments or to skip payments (for at least 3 months). Who
- [How people are (mis)spending their Coronavirus stimulus checks](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-people-are-misspending-their/) - With the government hoping people will spend a majority of the $350 billion dollars allocated towards stimulus checks, they may be concerned with the way a number of folks are just going to save the stimulus payment. What I found interesting was how the various folks responded in line with the the stereotype for their
- [2020 Fiscal Economic Stimulus to Combat Recession Fears Amid Coronavirus (Covid-19) Outbreak](https://savingtoinvest.com/2020-fiscal-stimulus-options/) - [Latest Update] In addition to the FFCRA act, Congress has now passed a much larger fiscal stimulus bill (the third one) aimed at addressing the rapidly deteriorating jobs and economic situation as the Coronavirus related shutdown continues. The new stimulus package is nearly $2 Trillion (that's right, 12 zeros!) and is the largest such measure
- [A Little Help for Those in Need...](https://savingtoinvest.com/a-little-help-for-those-in-need/) - On my post around the Coronavirus outbreak delaying tax refunds I recieved the following comment from Andrea: My husband is a barber and self-employed and due to him being self-employed we can’t get unemployment to do all together we’re pretty much screwed all barber shops in all beauty salons got shut down the other day
- [Is unemployment expanding? Are governments getting checks in people's hands? Are banks suspending mortgage, rent and debt payments?](https://savingtoinvest.com/is-unemployment-expanding-are-governments-getting-checks-in-peoples-hands-are-banks-suspending-mortgage-rent-and-debt-payments/) - The title of this post reflects some of the main questions I see across various traditional and social media channels with the Coronavirus Pandemic in full flight. Here are some answers to these including support programs in place Is unemployment expanding? The short answer is Yes. Federal and state governments have already bolstered unemployment programs
- [2019 - 2020 Tax Filing Season Deadline Extended for 90 days to July 2020](https://savingtoinvest.com/2020-tax-filing-deadline-extension-past-april-15/) - With the Coronavirus shutting down several public institutions and forcing teleworking for millions of government employees, the IRS has announced, under the national emergency provision to tackle the Coronavirus, that they will postpone the April 15 tax-payment deadline by 90 additional days. This will affect and likely help millions of tax payers to pay their
- [2020 Emergency 14 Day Paid Leave Benefit Under Coronavirus Relief Bill](https://savingtoinvest.com/2020-emergency-14-day-paid-leave-benefit-under-coronavirus-relief-bill/) - The recently passed Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) creates a new federal emergency paid leave benefits program where eligible workers will receive a benefit for a month (up to three months) in which they must take 14 or more days of leave from their work due to the qualifying COVID-19-related reasons. Days when an
- [HDHP (with HSA) can be used to Cover Cost of Coronavirus Testing](https://savingtoinvest.com/hdhp-with-hsa-can-be-used-to-cover-cost-of-conavirus-testing/) - The Internal Revenue Service today advised that high-deductible health plans (HDHPs) can pay for 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)-related testing and treatment, without jeopardizing their status. This also means that an individual with an HDHP that covers these costs may continue to contribute to a health savings account (HSA). In Notice 2020-15, posted today on IRS.gov, the IRS
- [It's not a refund dummy - it is the IRS returning to you, the amount you sent to them for free](https://savingtoinvest.com/its-not-a-refund-dummy-it-is-the-irs-returning-to-you-the-amount-you-sent-to-them-that-was-not-due/) - The title of this article sums up a theme from irate tax payers who complain that people should be annoyed when they receive a tax refund, not happy! The premise behind this is that a refund is basically the IRS giving you back your money that you "loaned" the IRS for free over the past
- [Tax Rate and Tax Brackets - Trump, House, Senate GOP vs IRS Tax Tables](https://savingtoinvest.com/what-will-be-my-tax-rate-and-tax-bracket-in-2018/) - See the latest tax tables and brackets for the current and upcoming tax year Given all the tax reforms being proposed under the Trump administration, many Americans are understandably wondering if they will be paying more or less in taxes next year. The answer is that if the GOP tax reform plans are passed, which are
- [Tax Software Upgrade Delays  Impacting 2020 Tax Returns and Refund Payments](https://savingtoinvest.com/tax-software-upgrade-delays-impacting-2018-tax-returns-filed-in-2019/) - Technology and Tax Software were supposed to have made tax filing more efficient and refunds (where applicable) faster. But thanks to the slew of tax changes from Trumps' tax code reforms and recent IRS employee cutbacks the software developers at the state and federal tax agencies and at tax software companies that integrate with IRS
- [Obamacare Penalty or ACA Individual Mandate Repealed and Scrapped from 2019 - But Still Applies in 2017 and 2018](https://savingtoinvest.com/obamacare-penalty-or-aca-individual-mandate-repealed-and-scrapped-from-2019-but-still-applies-in-2017-and-2018/) - While Congressional Republicans were unable to muster the required majorities to pass several versions of House and Senate health care replacement bills, they were able to include a provision to repeal the individual mandate (i.e. the Obamacare penalty) via successfully passing their GOP tax reform bill to support President Trump’s tax reform agenda. While the Obamacare penalty
- [$500 Non-Child Dependent or Flexible Credit in Trump/GOP Tax Reform Bill](https://savingtoinvest.com/500-non-child-dependent-or-flexible-credit-in-trump-gop-tax-reform-bill/) - The now passed GOP/Trump tax bill contains a little known but important $500 credit for non-child dependents - e.g elderly or disabled dependents or children over 17. This credit is to provide some relief to those families who will lose the now defunct personal exemption and are not eligible for the expanded Child Tax Credit (CTC). Both the CTC
- [Trump GOP Tax Plan, Cuts and Changes in 2017, 2018 and Beyond - Latest Updates and Final Bill](https://savingtoinvest.com/trump-tax-plan-cuts-and-changes-in-2017-2018-and-beyond/) - [Latest update] Republican lawmakers in the House and Senate have now passed a combined tax reform bill along party lines for President Trump's Tax Reform measures under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. See the table below that contrasts changes from earlier versions in each chamber versus what is in the final bill that goes to the
- [A New Economic Stimulus Package With Obama-Bush Tax Cuts and Unemployment Benefit Extensions](https://savingtoinvest.com/a-new-2011-economic-stimulus-package-with-obama-bush-tax-cuts-and-unemployment-benefit-extensions/) - [Update - No New Taxes with Tax Extensions Approved] President Obama has now signed into law a bill that covers a temporary extension of all the bush-era tax cuts. The new bill also contains extensions to some of the 2008 stimulus tax breaks, and even has some new tax cuts. With this legislation he has essentially created
- [2017-2018 Estate Tax Changes and Exemption Extension](https://savingtoinvest.com/estate-tax-changes-and-2011-2012-exemption-extension/) - [Update] - As part of the 2018 Trump tax reform package there is a big push to get the Estate tax fully repealed or raise existing exemption levels. Provisions around this are being debated in Congress and you can get the latest updates in this article. ______ A change to the estate tax exemption was recently
- [I Like Donald Trump But Will Drop Him Like a Hot Potato if He Raises My Taxes](https://savingtoinvest.com/i-like-donald-trump-but-will-drop-him-like-a-hot-potato-if-he-raises-my-taxes/) - The title of this article is from a reader (Barry P.) who had this comment on Trump's proposed tax reforms: I live in Massachusetts and make $61,000.00 annually. I own a home and pay mortgage interest of around $12,000 dollars. My state income taxes and property taxes amount to another $8,000. So my itemized deduction
- [Will I Still Have to Pay an Obamacare Health Insurance Penalty in 2017 or 2018?](https://savingtoinvest.com/will-i-still-have-to-pay-an-obamacare-health-insurance-penalty-in-2017-or-2018/) - Will i still have to pay health insurance penalties (under the Obamacare individual mandate) in 2017 or 2018? This is the question a lot of Americans are asking under the House and Senate health care replacement bills. The short answer is NO. In fact both bills repeal the individual mandate outright and make it retroactive
- [Do Republican Health Care Changes to Repeal Obamacare Impact You?](https://savingtoinvest.com/do-republican-health-care-changes-to-obamacare-impact-you/) - The Senate has announced their health care plan - the BETTER CARE RECONCILIATION ACT (BCRA) - which is in line with the house bill, with key changes being made to appease more moderate Republicans. NPR had a nice summary comparing Obamacare, AHCA (House bill) and BCRA (Senate bill) shown in the graphic below. In general the bill does
- [2017 Income Tax Withholding Allowance](https://savingtoinvest.com/2017-income-tax-withholding-allowance/) - Updated income-tax withholding tables for 2017 have been released by the IRS. In 2017 the amount for one withholding allowance on an annual basis is $4,050 (same as 2016). Employers will start using the revised withholding tables and correct the amount of Social Security tax withheld as soon as possible in 2017, but not later
- [ObamaCare (ACA) Repeal and Replacement via American Health Care Act (AHCA) ON HOLD for 2017 and 2018](https://savingtoinvest.com/obamacare-likely-to-be-repealed-and-replaced-under-a-trump-presidency/) - [Latest Update] The repeal and replacement of Obamacare via the American Health Care Act, the Ryan-Trump administration proposal, is officially on hold following a lack on unity across the Republican party to get the AHCA bill approved in the House. With no Democrat member support, it had to be passed by all the factions of the Republican
- [How Financial Planners Charge And Understanding Their Fee Structure](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-financial-planners-charge-and-understanding-their-fee-structure/) - A few weeks ago I began my search for a financial planner (or financial advisor as some prefer) to review my monetary situation and see if I am on the right track for a sound retirement. I consider myself pretty savvy when it comes to personal finance, but I think it is always good to meet with an expert for a
- [Rich Advice: What The Top Financial Advisors Are Saying About Investing](https://savingtoinvest.com/rich-advice-what-the-top-financial-advisors-are-saying-about-investing/) - I always enjoy reading Barron's annual Top 1,000 financial advisors list. While, I am way too middle class to engage the ongoing services of a financial advisor (most of the top advisors service families/people with more than $5 million in net worth), it's still interesting to note what they are saying about the future and
- [Can a Bad Credit Score Make It Hard To Get or Keep a Job?](https://savingtoinvest.com/can-bad-credit-score-make-it-hard-to/) - Many employers, and certainly the larger ones, use a prospective employee’s credit history as a pre-employment screening methodology to judge their character and credibility. The reasoning is that your inability to handle your financial commitments may be a sign of personal irresponsibility, which may spill over into the workplace. For example, if your monthly debt
- [Thank God I Got My Tax Refund! Americans Get Religious and Pray For Divine Intervention With IRS Refund Delays](https://savingtoinvest.com/thank-god-i-got-my-tax-refund-americans-get-religious-with-irs-refund-delays/) - People are again getting very frustrated with delays they are seeing around getting their federal tax refunds. Despite the IRS saying that 9 out of 10 refunds will be processed in under 21 days, there have been a lot of people who seem to waiting a lot longer than the standard schedule. What's exacerbated this situation is
- [Can You Sue the Credit Rating Agencies - Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion - For Mistakes With Your Credit Report and FICO Score](https://savingtoinvest.com/can-you-sue-credit-rating-agencies/) - Read an interesting article in the NY times, discussing states that are suing the various corporate credit rating agencies like Standard & Poor's and Fitch, because of the losses they bore from securities they rated as AAA. They argue that these "incorrect" ratings have cost them millions now and into the future, and that these
- [Second Mortgage Write Down Relief Under Expanded Modification Program To Help Struggling Home Owners Facing Foreclosure](https://savingtoinvest.com/second-mortgage-write-down-relief/) - [Updated April 2010] With a weakening housing market and impending expiration of the home buyer credit, the Obama administration and Treasury have stepped up efforts to help struggling home owners facing foreclosure, including subsidies for the unemployed and borrowers who owe more than their home is worth. The updated/revised plan would increase payments to lenders
- [Federal Income Tax Tables and Rates For 2014 Tax Season](https://savingtoinvest.com/federal-income-tax-tables-and-rates-for-2014-tax-season/) - April 15th 2014, or the 2013 tax filing due date, is not that far away. Which means its time to do some serious tax planning so that by year end you maximize your income while minimizing your taxes dues when filing in 2014. But first, the official rates and tables for tax year 2013. In
- [2013 IRS Official Tax Updates - Tax Rate Schedules, Standard Deduction, Personal Exemption and AMT update](https://savingtoinvest.com/2013-irs-official-tax-updates-tax-rate-schedules-standard-deduction-personal-exemption-and-amt-update/) - The IRS has published its official 2013 changes reflecting annual inflation adjustments and tax table updates from the recently passed Fiscal Cliff legislation, officially known as the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012. Key changes include: For 2013 the 39.6 percent tax rate has been reinstated for individuals whose income exceeds $400,000 ($450,000 for married taxpayers filing a joint return).
- [Best Business Schools For Full time, Part Time and Online MBAs](https://savingtoinvest.com/best-business-schools-for-full-time-part-time-and-online-mbas/) - U.S News just released their 2013-2014 rankings of business schools with little change from the previous year. Despite a tepid economy and higher than average unemployment, business school admissions and tuition rates continue to rise. Particularly for part-time and online business, or MBA, degrees. Getting a graduate business degree is almost becoming the norm for those wanting to
- [Oh No I Am a Speculator and Not an Investor! Another Reason To Go With Index Funds](https://savingtoinvest.com/oh-no-i-am-a-speculator-and-not-an-investor-another-reason-to-go-with-index-funds/) - Of late I have been reflecting on my investing performance over the last decade. While I have made some money on "winning" stocks, I have probably lost much more on duds. In fact as I looked at my portfolio I still own many of these dud stocks, hoping for some miraculous bounce that will restore
- [Are Vanguard and Fidelity Increasing Fund Fees?](https://savingtoinvest.com/are-vanguard-and-fidelity-increasing-fund-fees/) - Vanguard and Fidelity are widely known for their low cost index and mutual funds. Their low expense fees/costs and broad array of funds have made them the fund manager of choice for many individuals, corporations and trusts. So its no surprise that they are the biggest of the fund managers and market makers out there. I
- [Which Type of IRA is Best for Me? Roth IRA or Traditional IRA and How to Decide](https://savingtoinvest.com/which-type-of-ira-is-best-for-me-roth-ira-or-traditional-ira-and-how-to-decide/) - Most people have heard about Individual Retirement Account (IRA) plans which provide self-administered tax advantaged retirement saving options. For most people two types of IRA options are best - a Traditional IRA or a Roth IRA. But choosing the right option depends on a variety of factors that include, how much you and/or your spouse
- [2016 to 2017 Retirement Plan Contributions and Conversions - How to Reduce your Taxable Income](https://savingtoinvest.com/retirement-plan-contributions-and-conversions-how-to-reduce-your-taxable-income/) - In this article we will discuss Retirement Plan Contributions and Conversions and how these can reduce your taxable income in the current tax year. The last business day of 2016 is December 30th, so there is still time to make changes to your contributions to achieve the greatest reduction in your tax liability. The countdown to
- [Obama Health Care Reform Changes - Mandatory Coverage Penalties, Health Care Exchanges, Tax Credits and Subsidies](https://savingtoinvest.com/obama-health-care-reform-changes-mandatory-coverage-penalties-health-care-exchanges-tax-credits-and-subsidies/) - President Obama's signature health care legislation, the Affordable Care Act, is very much in place now and in the next few months a number of Americans are going to see a lot more of the regulations and laws come into place. This includes: Penalties for No Health Insurance. Beginning in 2014, uninsured individuals must buy
- [4 Major Changes to the Affordable Health Care Act (ObamaCare) in 2017 and Beyond](https://savingtoinvest.com/4-major-changes-to-the-affordable-health-care-act-obamacare-in-2017-and-beyond/) - With open enrollment for health insurance plans underway there have been a number of conflicting news reports about the status of ObamaCare and potentially dramatic increases in health insurance costs for the coming year. Here we’re going to explore 4 potentially major changes to ObamaCare in 2017 and beyond: There Will Be Fewer Insurance Providers Starting
- [6 Tax Breaks for the 2016 to 2017 Tax Filing Season](https://savingtoinvest.com/6-tax-breaks-for-the-2016-2017-tax-filing-season/) - It is almost that time of year again....tax season! We have compiled a list of six tax breaks for the 2016-2017 tax season that will lower your taxes due and increase the amount of your refund. The first topic is Earned Income Credit (EIC). The rules on this can be very confusing, but we are
- [Should You Pay Off Your Mortgage Early or Invest The Extra Cash?](https://savingtoinvest.com/should-you-pay-off-your-mortgage-early-or-invest-the-extra-cash/) - Many of us dream about how it would feel to not have a monthly mortgage payment. Owning your home free and clear is the aspiration of numerous homeowners. But even without – in most cases – that hefty payment leaving your checkbook every 30 days, there are actually some reasons not to pay off your
- [Will I Get a Raise This Year? And What Is The Average Raise?](https://savingtoinvest.com/will-i-get-a-raise-this-year-and-what-is-the-average-raise/) - Unless you are a senior executive of a Fortune 500 company you probably won't be seeing a double digit raise this year. According to the seventh annual Compensation Planning Survey by Buck Consultants, workers who were among the highest-rated at their firm got average raises of 4.3%, an increase of just 0.2% from a year
- [2014 SNAP (Food Stamp) Program Facing Billions in Spending Cuts as Farm Bill Debate Rages](https://savingtoinvest.com/2014-food-stamp-or-snap-program-facing-billions-in-spending-cuts/) - [Updated November 2013] Without an extension to the 2009 stimulus funding for the Food Stamp/SNAP program, millions of Americans who rely on this program are going to see a cut in their benefits. The overall cut to the the program is around $5 billon dollars with the CBPP estimating the average cut will be $36
- [Smart Ways to Prepare For Retirement by Having a Plan A, B and C](https://savingtoinvest.com/smart-ways-to-prepare-for-retirement-by-having-a-plan-a-b-and-c/) - It’s time to save for retirement. It doesn’t matter how old or young you are, it doesn’t matter if you’re single or married and it doesn’t matter how good or bad the economy happens to be at this particular point in time. Some things are simple and others are complicated. This is simple. If you’re
- [How Leveraged and Inverse ETFs Can Fool You With Absolute vs. Relative Returns](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-leveraged-and-inverse-etfs-can-fool-you-with-absolute-vs-relative-returns/) - Leveraged and Inverse Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) have become a very popular tool for investors trying to super charge their gains from the volatility in market movements. Leveraged ETFs promise to provide a multiple of the returns on the underlying index they track. An inverse ETF on the other hand tries to deliver returns that are
- [How to Get Your UBER rating as a Passenger and see How Drivers Rate You](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-to-get-your-uber-rating-as-a-passenger-and-see-how-drivers-rate-you/) - Uber, now a verb in the dictionary, is the revolutionary ride hailing service (think taxi on your phone) that millions of people use daily. You basically request an "Uber" via your smartphone, it shows up and drops you off to your destination and your credit card (already on file) is automatically charged when the trip
- [New 2010 Stimulus Package Tax Breaks - Focused on Economic Aid For Middle Class Families via Increased Child Care, Student and Aged Care Credits](https://savingtoinvest.com/new-2010-stimulus-package-focused-on/) - [Updated following SOU speech] President Barack Obama has proposed a new round of stimulus spending in 2010, focused on middle class families struggling to pay bills and care for their families. The initiatives in the new stimulus package are a product of a middle class task force headed by Vice President Joe Biden, and will
- [Selling Your Gold For Cash - How, Where and Beware](https://savingtoinvest.com/selling-your-gold-for-cash-how-where-and-beware/) - With gold prices rolling past record highs on a regular basis, a number market pundits feel that we are entering a gold bubble. Like the housing and financial bubbles many have gotten swept away with the lure of easy money, only to coming crashing to earth when the bubble pops. So if you have golden
- [8 Tips to Getting A Safe Driver Discount To Lower Your Auto Insurance Costs](https://savingtoinvest.com/getting-a-safe-driving-discount-to-lower-your-auto-insurance-costs/) - Everyone is looking to cut costs in the current economic climate and one place that is often over looked is auto insurance premiums. While getting multiple free quotes for insurance is easy, actually understanding the factors that lower your insurance is even more important. One such factor is the safe driving discount, also called a
- [Which Fund Allocations Should I Choose for My 401K or IRA Contributions in 2016 Given Markets, Economy and Elections](https://savingtoinvest.com/which-funds-should-i-choose-for-my-401k-or-ira-in-given-markets-economy-and-elections/) - With the markets rocky, US and global economies facing headwinds and a presidential political campaign in full swing, choosing how to allocate your current and future retirement savings for the medium to longer term is no easy task. But rather than just leave your current 401K and IRA allocations as is amid changing macro and micro
- [2015 Tax Brackets and Other Federal Taxation Updates](https://savingtoinvest.com/2015-tax-brackets-projected-changes/) - Given the low inflation environment over the last year, the 2015 IRS Tax Brackets, standard deductions and personal exemptions have only seen a moderate increase over 2014 levels. Federal income tax brackets and related tax items, under the tax code, provide for mandatory annual adjustments based on inflation. This is to prevent the phenomenon known as bracket
- [Will Obamacare be Delayed?](https://savingtoinvest.com/will-obamacare-be-delayed/) - [Update] - The Obama administration announced that it will give Americans who buy health insurance through the new online marketplaces an extra six weeks (until March 31st, the end of open enrollment) to obtain coverage before they incur a penalty. With all the news around the glitches plaguing the Obamacare website - healthcare.gov - and its
- [How Will Health Care Reform Affect My Employer or Company Sponsored Benefits?](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-will-health-care-reform-affect-my-employer-or-company-sponsored-benefits/) - Even though President Obama and Congress have signed into law sweeping health care reform many employees are still in the dark about how their employer sponsored health care benefits will be affected and wondering when new provisions in the approved health care bills will go into effect. Rather than reading through thousands of pages of
- [Federal Taxes as a Percentage of Household Income](https://savingtoinvest.com/federal-taxes-as-a-percentage-of-household-income/) - An interesting study by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) provided some very telling graphics around income distribution changes relative to which groups paid the most in taxes. Amazing how politicians can both take the same data and spin it in different ways. The first graphic shows the cumulative growth in average income after federal taxes
- [Romney to Americans Who Pay No Taxes - You Are Victims and Losers!](https://savingtoinvest.com/romney-to-americans-who-pay-no-taxes-you-are-victims-and-losers/) - A secret recording from a closed-door fund raiser had Mitt Romney saying, "47 percent of Americans believe that they are victims...I'll never convince them they should take personal responsibility and care for their lives...My job is not to worry about [votes from] those people. These are people who pay no income tax. Forty-seven percent of Americans pay
- [6 Factors that Can Increase Your Life Insurance Premium](https://savingtoinvest.com/6-factors-that-can-increase-your-life/) - There are a number of factors that come into play when calculating your life insurance premium. It would therefore be worthwhile to know exactly what goes into the calculation process and whether you can do anything to reduce your life insurance rate from your end. Insurance companies all have certain criteria that underwriter’s look out
- [Smart Move: Claiming Social Security Benefits Later Rather Than Earlier](https://savingtoinvest.com/claiming-social-security-benefits-later/) - As a result of the recession, social security retirement and disability benefit claims have risen 50% more than expected. Bloomberg reports that the 150,000 extra retirees claiming benefits may add to the financial pressure on the entitlement program and that expenses would exceed revenue beginning in 2016, with the social security fund running out of
- [No Preset Spending Limit or Reward Credit Cards: The Excellent Credit Debate](https://savingtoinvest.com/no-preset-spending-limit-or-reward-credit-cards-the-excellent-credit-debate/) - What does No Preset Spending Limit (NPSL) mean to you? Many consumers, normally with excellent credit, take this popular credit and charge card feature to mean “no limit.” They think that NPSL products—such as the charge cards offered by Chase and American Express as well as Visa Signature credit cards and World MasterCard credit cards—provide
- [Readership correlation with Blog Revenue](https://savingtoinvest.com/rss-readership-correlation-with-blog/) - Curt from Penny Jobs left an interesting comment on a recent post about increasing my passive income to $300 p/month. His comment related to my target of growing my blogging (passive) income to $50 p/month by year end and was: Here is a calculation for blogging income. JD of the 'Get Rich Slowly' blog posted
- [Frugal Ways to Keep Your Home Safe](https://savingtoinvest.com/frugal-ways-to-keep-your-home-safe/) - Recently there has been a spate of minor burglaries in my apartment complex, which prompted my wife and I to consider getting an alarm system for our apartment. We looked into this via various on-line sites and calls to security companies in our local area and found that the costs would be about $500 to
- [Overtime Pay and How Much Overtime Employees Can Work](https://savingtoinvest.com/overtime-pay-and-how-much-overtime-employees-can-work/) - Whether it's due to a tough economy and a scarcity of jobs, the need for extra money or just the company culture, millions of Americans work overtime. In fact, Americans work on average more official overtime hours than workers in any other industrialized country. In just twenty years Americans have added an hour and a
- [Obamacare ACA Maximum 2015 Penalty To Top $12,000 For Higher Income Earners](https://savingtoinvest.com/obamacare-aca-maximum-penalty-to-top-12000/) - For the 2015 tax year, the Obamacare or Affordable Care Act (ACA) shared responsibility is set to double from a maximum $975 per household in 2014 to approximately $12,850 per household. This is based on the percentage of income criteria, versus the flat tax/penalty amount outlined below. To avoid being subject to this penalty individuals
- [Dow falls below 5000!](https://savingtoinvest.com/dow-falls-below-5000/) - Crazy headline or spot on prediction? Just trying to grab attention you may be thinking. However based on the recent rapid moves in the market, mainly to the downside, this headline may come to pass sooner than you think. I have a reasonable investment and retirement portfolio, so I hope that this mark is never
- [Freeze Foreclosures! What's next - Freeze credit card debt?](https://savingtoinvest.com/freeze-foreclosures-whats-next-freeze/) - Bloomberg reports that US banking committee senators have asked regulatory bodies (FHFA) now controlling mortgage giants Freddie and Fannie to freeze foreclosures for 90 days in order to "provide immediate relief to many homeowners'' and let the companies "turn these non-performing loans into performing assets to minimize losses". Lawmakers and bank regulators, including Federal Reserve
- [2016 Affordable Care Act Tax Reminders](https://savingtoinvest.com/2016-affordable-care-act-tax-reminders/) - The IRS has released some useful reminders when it comes to tax rulings and obligations around the Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare as it is more commonly known. For the vast majority of taxpayers providing proof of health insurance coverage (and avoiding a penalty) will simply mean checking a box to verify everyone on their return
- [>Week in Review: Funny Business](https://savingtoinvest.com/week-in-review-funny-business/) - >I received the following comic strip via email this week and even though it was written 15 years ago, it is quite relevant for today's semi-government corporate environment. Funny business indeed. (click on image to enlarge)My Australian holiday is coming to an end and I am not looking forward to returning to a cold US
- [How Did Your Retirement Account Perform Last Year? Checking Performance Online at Fidelity or Vanguard](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-did-your-retirement-account-perform-last-year-checking-performance-online-at-fidelity-or-vanguard/) - With stock markets staging a strong recovery the average return on a tax advantaged retirement plan, like a 401(k) and IRA, was around 11% according to Morningstar. At this rate your money will double every 5 or so years thanks to compounding. But how did your retirement plan perform? And have you even checked? For
- [Too Expensive to File For Bankruptcy](https://savingtoinvest.com/too-expensive-to-file-for-bankruptcy/) - The online WSJ recently ran a piece on the rising costs of bankruptcy: Individuals who have filed for bankruptcy protection since Congress overhauled U.S. bankruptcy laws in 2005 have faced a more expensive process as attorneys' fees have risen by roughly half, according to a government report. In a report issued Monday, the U.S. Government
- [Has my Financial and Personal Information Been Compromised if I used TurboTax, H&R Block or Tax Act?](https://savingtoinvest.com/has-my-financial-and-personal-information-been-compromised-if-i-used-turbotax-hr-block-or-tax-act/) - There has been a lot of publicity of late around electronic security breaches with a focus on tax software related breaches. The majority of people file their taxes electronically and with tax returns containing your most sensitive personal information it is no surprise that hacking or compromised data that leads to identity theft and other online
- [2015 Official IRS IRA, Roth IRA and 401K Contribution Limits](https://savingtoinvest.com/2015-ira-and-401k-contribution-limits-remain-unchanged/) - Millions of Americans contribute to an employer sponsored 401K or traditional IRA (Individual Retirement Account). And over the last few years the government has steadily been increasing the maximum contribution people can make to ensure that folks can build a larger nest egg during retirement. But thanks for the low inflation environment seen over the preceding year,
- [Switching to a Catastrophic Health Plan to Supplement Your Savings and Propel Your Investments](https://savingtoinvest.com/switching-to-a-catastrophic-health-plan-to-supplement-your-savings-and-propel-your-investments/) - Choosing the health plan that is best for you and your loved ones is a decision that deserves some undivided attention. While most Americans are used to having traditional health insurance coverage (with up front office visit and prescription benefits), many are turning to catastrophic-only health plans to open up their budget. For some people,
- [How Much Will it Cost to Have a Tax Professional Prepare Your Tax Return this Year?](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-much-will-it-cost-to-have-a-tax-professional-prepare-your-tax-return-this-year/) - I have received variations on this question over the last few years and when I saw this article in the WSJ I had the answer to my question. The national average fee for 2014 returns will be $273, according to a survey by the National Society of Accountants. This fee is based on filing for the
- [IRS Errors and Economic Stimulus Refunds For Home Buyer Credit and Overpayment of $250 SSI and Making Work Pay Tax Credit](https://savingtoinvest.com/irs-errors-delaying-economic-stimulus-payments-for-home-buyer-credit-and-overpayment-of-250-ssi-and-making-work-pay-tax-credit/) - The IRS has officially admitted that they are having issues with processing some of the most popular economic stimulus payments that the Obama administration has handed out over the last few years. In particular, the many versions of the first time home buyer credit, each with different eligibility and income rules, has made tax time
- [Successfully Buying my Home - A Real Life Journey](https://savingtoinvest.com/successfully-buying-my-home-real-life/) - Like me, a good friend of mine recently bought a house after a long and arduous search. In talking with him I thought his journey to buying a house would provide some timely advice for those in the market to buy a house (hurry before the new home buyer credit expires), or for those who
- [2013 Home Energy Tax Credits Extended](https://savingtoinvest.com/green-energy-home-and-auto-tax-crdits/) - [2013 Update] As part of the deal to avert the fiscal cliff, legislated under the American Taxpayer Relief Act (ATRA) of 2012, certain energy tax credits were extended into 2013. You can read this article for an overview of these credits and other 2013 income tax related changes. The$500 tax credit for installing energy efficient improvements to existing
- [$1000 in 1 day on Nasdaq (QQQQ) call options](https://savingtoinvest.com/1000-in-1-day-on-nasdaq-qqqq-call/) - Tony Parker - a regular contributor and experienced investor - is calling the bottom of the market. To quote what Tony said late last week: "Either today (Friday) or Monday will signify the bottom for the stock market...time to buy, buy, buy...and make some money in the process". He has put $1000 of his own
- [Should I Buy an Extended Warranty - Worth It or a Waste of Money?](https://savingtoinvest.com/should-i-get-extended-warranty-worth-it/) - If you've bought an appliance or electronic gadget in the last few years, the sales person has probably tried to sell you an extended warranty or insurance plan. Often they justify it as a relatively small purchase, and isn't the peace of mind worth? Unfortunately, many of us are sucked in and end up buying the unnecessary and over-priced
- [What Would You Do - Keep it or Return the Refund? ](https://savingtoinvest.com/what-would-you-do-keep-it-or-return-the-refund/) - This is summarized from a real life scenario. What would you do in this scenario? Vote on the poll and/or add your comment below. Alan ordered a $600 jacket online from a well known retailer's website where he had shopped a number of times before. This was a jacket he really wanted and was looking
- [Debit Cards linked to your 401(k)! Danger ahead](https://savingtoinvest.com/debit-cards-linked-to-your-401k-danger/) - From a company press release I saw on a financial news site: Reserve Management Corp (RMC) is offering a service to employees that allows debit cards to be linked to 401(k) plans, for easy withdrawal of funds. Their Chairman, Bruce R. Bent, justified this offering by saying that they encourage employees to sign up for
- [Rates on Savings Accounts and CDs Set to Increase](https://savingtoinvest.com/rates-on-high-yield-savings-accounts/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp (FDIC), the agency that guarantees bank deposits, is expected to ease rules restricting relatively weak banks and thrifts from paying higher rates to attract deposits. Under current rules, institutions rated below "well-capitalized" are restricted from paying rates much higher than U.S. Treasury bond yields. But that benchmark is abnormally low
- [How Much of Your Wireless (cell or mobile) Bill is Just Taxes ?](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-much-of-your-wireless-cell-or-mobile-bill-is-just-taxes/) - Answer: About 17 percent according to a report by the Tax Foundation. This figure is based on the average U.S. wireless bill and includes the amount for federal, state and local taxes and fees. Larger metros not surprisingly have higher than average wireless taxes on their residents. In New York City and Chicago, some users have more
- [High Yield Saving Account and CD Rates Compared Globally](https://savingtoinvest.com/high-yield-saving-account-and-cd-rates-compared-globally/) - In America we can get Annual Percentage Yields (APY) or savings rates between 0.01% and 1% for money kept in high yield on-line saving accounts. This range is quite pathetic but when compared to the volatility of returns from stock markets over the last few years some would take the guaranteed low return. However, having lived overseas
- [Paying off Your Mortgage Early- What Would You Do With The Spare Cash](https://savingtoinvest.com/paying-off-your-mortgage-what-would-you/) - Not having to pay rent or a mortgage is one of the key steps to financial freedom. It frees up what is most likely your biggest expense and allows you to channel that money to other wealth building pursuits. I currently pay about $3500 a month in rent (including taxes), and have a long way to go
- [Protecting Your Mortgage and Other Assets with Term Life Insurance](https://savingtoinvest.com/protecting-your-mortgage-and-other/) - One of the largest purchases in your lifetime will most likely be your home. If you have bought one or are planning to, chances are that you have looked into a mortgage in order to afford one. As time passes, and you pay your monthly mortgage payments, have you ever given any thought to what
- [My Next Laptop : Should I Go With a New Windows 7.0 PC or For an Apple MacBook Pro?](https://savingtoinvest.com/should-i-go-with-microsofts-new-window/) - With the recent release of Microsoft's new operating system, Windows 7.0, I now have two enticing choices when it comes to getting a new laptop. I currently have a desktop PC running Vista (which isn’t as bad as some make it out to be) and an older model laptop. Thanks to a wireless network and
- [Fastest Growing State – Hands Down Texas!](https://savingtoinvest.com/fastest-growing-state-hands-down-texas/) - I sometimes ponder where I would move if I had to leave my current state (VA). And more and more, Texas seems to come to mind. This is because of three main factors - strong employment, housing affordability and quality of life (good weather, diverse cities, lower taxes etc). And clearly I am not alone based
- [How to Save and Make Money with Credit Cards](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-to-save-and-make-money-with-credit/) - Today, I'm going to show a few ways to save money using credit cards. However, to take advantage of this, you have to pay your bills in full every month. If not, then credit card issuers are taking advantage of you. Also, I just want to mention that credit cards aren't for everyone. Some people
- [Google's Earnings, Adsense and Credit Cards](https://savingtoinvest.com/googles-earnings-adsense-and-credit/) - Google's AdSense program generates about 30% of the company's total revenues and has been growing consistently over the last few years, despite all their search algorithm change and increase competition. So clearly this is a big and growing money earner for them. However one thing I have noticed is that while the number of clicks
- [What Gym Fees and Interest Payments Have in Common](https://savingtoinvest.com/what-gym-fees-and-interest-payments-have-in-common/) - Ever been curious about the seeming universality of the desire to purchase goods and services without paying for them immediately? Many credit card users fall victim to this desire for instant gratification knowing full well they can’t actually afford what they bought without going into debt. Deferring payment until tomorrow allows for a surprising amount
- [Average Teacher Salaries Across The Country](https://savingtoinvest.com/average-teacher-salaries-across-the-country/) - Teachers play such an important role in our lives. We can all remember a great teacher who directly or indirectly had a bearing on where our lives went and what we achieved. I see this even more clearly as I see my son go through elementary school. Last year he had a terrible teacher who
- [Ten ways to Avoid Getting Ripped Off at the Ball Park](https://savingtoinvest.com/ten-ways-to-avoid-getting-ripped-off-at/) - I recently went to a ball game in my hometown and had a great time watching the local team win. However one thing I have noticed for the longest time is the rising price of things sold at the ball games and I am sure at many other sporting events. From food to ticket prices
- [Making Money Investing in Mortgages](https://savingtoinvest.com/making-money-investing-in-mortgages/) - Income from mutual funds and stocks that invest in real estate backed mortgages has never been higher. With returns of 8-15% these alternative investments – when used appropriately – can substantially increase portfolio income and growth. Much of the success of these funds is due to the difficulty that Americans are having refinancing, despite low
- [The Power of Giving With No Strings Attached](https://savingtoinvest.com/the-power-of-giving-with-no-strings-attached/) - In this blog I mainly write about topics related to saving, making and spending money. But I don't write often enough about giving away money. Especially to people less fortunate than most. This was highlighted to me recently when I was at a downtown 7-Eleven where a number of people were in line, including me,
- [Stopping Unfair, Deceptive, or Abusive Acts or Practices in the Collection of Consumer Debts](https://savingtoinvest.com/stopping-unfair-deceptive-or-abusive-acts-or-practices-in-the-collection-of-consumer-debts/) - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has issued a very useful and timely bulletin around the rights of consumers and agencies when it comes to debt collection practices in context of laws enacted under the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. For the millions of Americans dealing with debt collectors or those who
- [Why the worlds central banks (including the Fed) can't save the markets](https://savingtoinvest.com/why-worlds-central-banks-including-fed/) - Financial markets are disintegrating around the world. Professionals and regular investors are seeing red all over the screens and portfolio values are dropping faster than during the dot.com bubble burst or after the September 11 terrorist attacks. Central banks (which includes the federal and reserve banks) around the world, along with governments, are trying to
- [40 Year and Interest Only Mortgages Going Away](https://savingtoinvest.com/40-year-and-interest-only-mortgages-going-away/) - Government sponsored/owned entities Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have announced that they will no longer be purchasing certain mortgages as directed by their regulator and in compliance with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s (CFPB) qualified mortgage (QM) and Ability-to-Repay (ATR) requirements. This is effective from Jan 10, 2014 and covers the following types of mortgages:
- [The 10 Largest Tax Breaks In The Income Tax system](https://savingtoinvest.com/the-10-largest-tax-breaks-in-the-income-tax-system/) - The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) has published an interesting report titled, The Distribution of Major Tax Expenditures in the Individual Income Tax System, that shows how 10 of the largest tax breaks, credits and deductions are distributed across household with different income levels. These tax breaks (or tax expenditures as they are referred to) include,
- [Your 2013 Tax Rate - Understanding Your IRS Marginal and Effective Tax Bracket](https://savingtoinvest.com/your-2013-tax-rate-understanding-your-irs-marginal-and-effective-tax-bracket/) - With the 2012 tax season in the rear view mirror, its time to start thinking about 2013 taxes and strategies that you can put in place to minimize taxes owed in 2014. But before that take some time to familiarize yourself with the new 2013 tax brackets shown below. But, be careful in reading the table below
- [Another Housing Bubble Brewing On the Horizon](https://savingtoinvest.com/another-housing-bubble-brewing-on-the-horizon/) - The NY Fed has a great set of maps that show the dynamic return of the US housing market with home prices posting year over year double digit gains in many areas. Some experts are even saying that home prices in states like California, Florida and New York are rising so fast on an annualized
- [Free Wi-Fi Across America? No thanks if you are Verizon, AT&T or T-mobile. Yes for Google, Microsoft, Facebook and Consumers](https://savingtoinvest.com/free-wi-fi-across-america-no-thanks-if-you-are-verizon-att-or-t-mobile-yes-for-google-microsoft-facebook-and-consumers/) - A pretty important debate is taking place at the highest levels of influence in America and it is around the roll-out of free Wi-Fi across the nation. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) supported by major technology companies wants to create a high-speed Wi-Fi network across the nation that will allow consumers to surf the net for
- [Roth IRA Early Withdrawal Rules For After Tax Contributions, Traditional IRA Conversions and Investment Earnings](https://savingtoinvest.com/roth-ira-early-withdrawal-rules-for-after-tax-contributions-traditional-ira-conversions-and-investment-earnings/) - A Roth IRA can provide a great way to build up savings for retirement. These accounts allow funds to grow on a tax-free basis. And, provided that the account owner meets just a few requirements, all the money contributed and earned in a Roth IRA account may also be withdrawn without taxation at retirement. Oftentimes, however,
- [Effectively Managing Credit Card Debt](https://savingtoinvest.com/managing-credit-card-debt-effectively/) - In tough economic times many people turn to their credit cards when they need money. But racking up extra debt to deal with financial difficulties is a strategy that's almost sure to backfire. Even when you have less money in your wallet, you should remember that the most important thing is paying off debt should
- [$500 Increase in 2013 401k and IRA Contribution Limits Makes a Real Difference at Retirement](https://savingtoinvest.com/the-500-increase-in-2013-401k-and-ira-contribution-limits-make-a-real-difference-at-retirement/) - The IRS has provided a $500 increase in tax deductible 2013 401(k) and IRA contribution maximums. Employer sponsored 401k plan contribution maximums have risen from $17,000 to $17,500. IRA limits have risen to $5,500 from the 2012 maximum of $5,000. These increases may not seem like a lot at first glance but over a number of years with the effect
- [American Employees: Cheap to Fire](https://savingtoinvest.com/american-employees-cheap-to-fire/) - Interesting graphic from the Economist on what it costs to sack long-term employees. As shown, costs vary enormously across the world. America and New Zealand are among the most company-friendly countries, requiring no penalties or payouts to fire a full-time employee of 20 years or more. By contrast, a business in Zimbabwe must shell out
- [Small Business Insurance For General Liability, Workers Compensation, Commercial Auto and Umbrella Coverage](https://savingtoinvest.com/the-best-small-business-insurance-for-general-liability-workers-compensation-commercial-auto-and-umbrella-coverage/) - If you own a small business you know that with all of the rewards that come with being an entrepreneur there are also financial and legal risks that act as a daily overhang on your business. If one of your employees is injured on the job, the medical costs could bankrupt your business. If somebody
- [5 Credit Card Security Myths and Truths - How To Protect Yourself](https://savingtoinvest.com/5-credit-card-security-myths-and-truths-how-to-protect-yourself/) - Credit card fraud is on the rise worldwide as we move from a paper/cash based economy to an electronic/online one. For this reason it's important to be aware of credit card security and to protect your financial identity. Many people are not fully aware of the extent of credit card fraud, but these common myths about credit
- [Pick Your Correct Tax Filing Status To Minimize Taxes](https://savingtoinvest.com/pick-your-correct-tax-filing-status-to-minimize-your-taxes/) - Selecting your tax filing status is one of the first key steps in filing your federal tax return. Choosing the right status is extremely important because it can affect your filing requirements, standard deduction and eligibility for certain tax credits/deductions. In certain situations picking an incorrect filing status can make the difference between paying taxes
- [See How Long $1 Million Will Last in Retirement](https://savingtoinvest.com/see-how-long-1-million-will-last-in-retirement/) - The WSJ recently published two excellent graphics which show how long $1 million of retirement savings would last based on a given rate of after-inflation growth. Definitely provides some insight into how much you will need to save and most likely you will need more than you think. Particularly if current low rates of return
- [Top 4 Ways to Slash Your Auto Insurance Premium Payments](https://savingtoinvest.com/top-4-ways-to-slash-your-auto-insurance-premium-payments/) - Paying that auto insurance bill can be painful especially if you have never had to file a claim. Mistakenly, this prompts many consumers pick the cheapest insurance by dropping their coverage to levels that will leave them seriously exposed if they have an accident or suffer the theft of their car. However, you can actually cut
- [The Best Places to Live in The World](https://savingtoinvest.com/the-best-places-to-live-in-the-world/) - I moved to the states over five years ago to pursue my graduate degree and for better career opportunities. Before this I was in Australia. Looks like I probably should have stayed where I was according to the latest OECD survey, which ranks Australia as the happiest industrialized nation based on criteria such as jobs,
- [No More Social Security Checks in 2013](https://savingtoinvest.com/no-more-social-security-checks-in-2013/) - Before you freak out at the title, know that social security payments will still be made in 2013; it's just they will no longer be sent via checks in the mail. The US treasury announced that by March 2013 it will phase out paper checks for all benefit programs. This covers social security, veterans benefits,
- [Foreclosure Sales Suspended until early 2009](https://savingtoinvest.com/foreclosure-sales-suspended-until-early/) - [Updated Feb 19 2008] See this recent article on President Obama's $75 billion dollar plan to stem foreclosures and stabalize the housing market. It also covers who qualifies and when the programs start. -------- Finally some good news leading into the holidays for millions of struggling homeowners, through a plan of action that is actually
- [InBev and Anheuser-Busch (BUD) Options - Arbitrage Profits from the Credit Squeeze](https://savingtoinvest.com/inbev-and-anheuser-busch-bud-options/) - The difficulty in closing funding for some recently concluded corporate takeovers has presented an arbitrage profit opportunity for investors willing to take some risk. In particular I refer to the $52 billion mega takeover of U.S. brewer Anheuser-Busch (Ticker : BUD), the company that is famous for Budweiser Beer, by Belgian brewer InBev. Both are
- [Do I Need Disability Insurance Policy To Protect My Income](https://savingtoinvest.com/disability-insurance-policy-to-protect-your-most-important-asset-–-your-income/) - Disability Insurance Plans - Individual vs Group. Look at Short and Long term and best options to buy disability insurance
- [15 Year Versus 30 Year Fixed Rate Mortgages – How to Determine Which is the Better Option](https://savingtoinvest.com/15-year-versus-30-year-fixed-rate-mortgages-–-how-to-determine-which-is-the-better-option/) - As mortgage rates continue to hover at 30 year lows, many people are wondering whether a 15-year or a 30-year mortgage term is a better option. After all, even though payments on the 15-year option would be higher, the lower interest rates on the shorter term loan are keeping payments, in many cases, at very
- [2008 Beijing Olympics by the numbers](https://savingtoinvest.com/2008-beijing-olympics-by-numbers/) - With the Olympics just around the corner, here are some interesting financial facts and figures around the 2008 Beijing Olympics. For a sporting event, some of the numbers are massive and the Olympics is one of the few events (like the Soccer world cup) that can actually make a significant impact on a country's economic
- [How to Keep Your Identity – and Your Credit – Safe While Shopping](https://savingtoinvest.com/how-to-keep-your-identity-–-and-your-credit-–-safe-while-shopping/) - Each year more people are becoming victims of identity theft. When this happens, it could take years for the person to regain their rightful identity and their good credit standing. And the bad news is that identity thieves are getting much more sophisticated about identity theft and will stop at almost nothing to steal your
- [Economic Recovery Advisory Board (ERAB) - Brilliant or more Bureaucracy](https://savingtoinvest.com/economic-recovery-advisory-board-erab/) - In a continuing revelation of the economic team(s) to support his administration and its policy development, President-Elect Obama announced the formation of a new panel called the Economic Recovery Advisory Board (ERAB). The board's mission will be to give President-Elect Obama and his administration expert "outsider" policy advice on lifting the nation out of the
- [Freddie Mac Announces Resignation OF CEO David Moffet](https://savingtoinvest.com/freddie-mac-announces-resignation-of/) - Just another sign that the Mortgage Giants are really in much more trouble than the government regulators are letting on. David Moffet was CEO of Freddie Mac for just under 6 months and he must have thought the problems are too much too handle. The C-Level musical chairs at Freddie Mac continues. Is the Fannie
- [A new and more useful Social Security benefits calculator](https://savingtoinvest.com/new-and-more-useful-social-security/) - A colleague recently sent me a WSJ article covering a new calculator on the Social Security's administration's web site that gives a much-improved picture of what social security benefits could look like in retirement. This calculator is all part of a major upgrade of the Social Security Administration's systems and website to provide a faster
- [Teacher Jobs Bill Approved Preventing State Layoffs and Increasing FMAP Medicaid Funding](https://savingtoinvest.com/teacher-jobs-bill-approved-preventing-state-layoffs-and-increasing-fmap-medicaid-funding/) - A $26 billion state aid package was approved by Congress (and will be signed by the President) that saves thousands of state teaching and government worker jobs. The package provides $16.1 billion to extend (for six months) Medicaid funding for states, known as FMAP. The measure also provides $10 billion for a fund Democrats say
- [Cash Rewards on Visa (V) and Mastercard (MA) Earnings With No Credit Card Needed](https://savingtoinvest.com/cash-rewards-on-visa-v-and-mastercard-ma-earnings-with-no-credit-card-needed/) - Going into the earnings season, credit card transaction processing companies like Visa (V) and MasterCard (MA) have been hit pretty hard due to adverse impacts of the recently approved financial reform regulation which limits the interchange fees they can charge banks and merchants for card transactions. However the actual regulation in the financial reform bill was
- [Alternatives to the $700 billion financial bailout](https://savingtoinvest.com/alternatives-to-700-billion-financial/) - Despite all the politicking this week, it looks like a bipartisan deal on the $700 billion bailout package (now titled the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008) has been reached. In the revised approach the government immediately provides $250 billion to start buying the MBS and CDO clogging up the credit markets. Another $100 billion
- [Airline Fees Keep On Rising Through Price Gouging, Baggage and Fuel Surcharges](https://savingtoinvest.com/airline-price-gouging-and-fuel/) - I just booked my airline tickets (via United) for the upcoming Christmas holidays and despite the massive fall in oil prices over the last two months, the price of the tickets had remained relatively unchanged during this period. What's worse is that all those extra "fees" the airlines charged (like $15 for checked baggage) in
- [Here comes the Next Round of Stimulus Payments](https://savingtoinvest.com/here-comes-next-round-of-stimulus/) - In further proof that the government is trying to spend it's way out of the current financial crisis, the federal reserve chief - Ben Bernanke - signaled his support for a second round of fiscal stimulus'. The usual fear mongering lines of "dire consequences", "grave doubts of our future" and "protracted slowdown" were used to
- [So you think Gas is expensive in America. Check Out Prices Around the World](https://savingtoinvest.com/so-you-think-gas-is-expensive-in/) - >"Gas (& Oil) prices rise to new records". Seems like this headline appears in the news media every day. Oil and gas prices seem to be a topic everyone is discussing and complaining about nowadays. As national average gas prices approach $4 (I am already paying more than that where I live), we should count
- [10 Frivolous Tax Avoidance Arguments - Contention versus Facts Straight From the IRS](https://savingtoinvest.com/10-frivolous-tax-avoidance-arguments/) - Each year the IRS releases its discussion and rebuttal of many of the more common frivolous arguments made by individuals and groups that oppose compliance with federal tax laws. It’s called the Truth about Frivolous Tax Arguments and it makes interesting reading thanks to the inclusion of real life cases and situations where people have
- [Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac takeover and conservatorship - Impacts and Outcomes](https://savingtoinvest.com/fannie-mae-and-freddie-mac-takeover-and/) - The treasury along with the Federal Reserve and Federal Housing regulator (FHFA) announced a take over via conservatorship of the government sponsored entities of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae. Current actions will definitely provide a cushion, but long term structural reform is needed to ensure this does not happen again and tax payer bailout losses
- [The Trillion-dollar bailout and why it will be profitable for taxpayers](https://savingtoinvest.com/trillion-dollar-bailout-and-why-it-will/) - In my previous post I wrote about the long term fall out and adverse impacts from all these government bailouts. Tony Parker, a regular contributor to this site and an experienced investor, offers a different view as to why the bailouts could end up being a success and even realize a decent profit for the
- [Where is the stock market headed?](https://savingtoinvest.com/where-is-stock-market-headed/) - My dad use to say, "you can't get blood from a turnip". When you hear this phase during your younger years, your thoughts tend to imagine a guy squeezing a turnip and hoping blood will come out. Your next thought is something along the lines of, "why would someone squeeze a turnip, to get blood?!".
- [OPEC - It Cuts Both Ways. Oil Prices to Continue Falling](https://savingtoinvest.com/opec-it-cuts-both-ways-oil-prices-to/) - Crude-oil futures tumbled 6% to below $70 a barrel in New York, despite widespread expectations that the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) will reduce production at an emergency meeting later this week. Normally a planned cut in the crude oil supply would drive up the price of oil and eventually the price of gas

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- [Finding Cheaper Auto Insurance: What Will Actually Move Your Premium in 2026 and 2027](https://savingtoinvest.com/cheaper-auto-insurance/) - Full coverage car insurance now averages around $2,500 to $2,900 a year nationally — roughly $210 to $245 a month — though it swings widely by state, from under $1,500 in Vermont to over $4,200 in Maryland. Minimum coverage runs cheaper, averaging around $1,570 a year, but leaves you far more exposed if you're at
- [2026-2027 401(k), IRA, and Roth IRA Contribution and Income Limits](https://savingtoinvest.com/401k-ira-and-roth-ira-contribution-and-income-limits/) - 📋 2026 Key Takeaways The 2026 401(k) employee contribution limit is $24,500 (up from $23,500 in 2025). IRA and Roth IRA limits increased to $7,500 in 2026 (up from $7,000). Workers 50+ can add an $8,000 catch-up to their 401(k), for a total of $32,500. Ages 60–63 get a super catch-up of $11,250 total (instead
- [IRS Cycle Code Decoder & Refund Date Estimator](https://savingtoinvest.com/irs-cycle-code-decoder-refund-date-estimator/) - ✅ Updated for the Current Tax Season 🔍 IRS Cycle Code Decoder & Refund Date Estimator Enter your 8-digit IRS cycle code from your tax transcript to decode your processing date and estimate when your direct deposit will arrive. 🗂️ How to Find Your IRS Cycle Code Go to IRS.gov and log in (or
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- [About The Author and Site, Guest Posts and Advertising](https://savingtoinvest.com/about/) - Click to jump to ~ Advertising & Guest Posting Options Saving to Invest is a personal finance focused blog/website that covers a wide spectrum of topics from unemployment benefits to saving money to taxes to investing. I started this site as a way to educate myself on the ever changing world of saving and investing
- [Best High-Yield Savings Account Now - Reviews and Recommendations](https://savingtoinvest.com/high-yield-savings/) - Welcome! If you're on this page it means you are looking at options (and recommendations) for a great high yield savings account. These accounts provide the benefits of regular bank account with the added advantage of higher than average interest rates (yields). Following aggressive federal reserve actions to combat soaring inflation, savings interest rates are
- [Contact Us](https://savingtoinvest.com/contact-us/) - Saving to Invest is a personal finance focused blog that covers a wide spectrum of topics from unemployment to money to taxes to working to retired life. With over 1 million visitors per month and a broad presence across Facebook, Twitter and YouTube we get a lot of questions and comments. If you have a specific question on a topic
- [Crypto Resource Page - Latest News and Updates](https://savingtoinvest.com/crypto-resource-page-latest-news-and-updates/) - With all things Cryptocurrency - Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin - being in vogue now and many of my readers keenly following updates, I thought I would use this page to provide a collection of great articles, references and videos on all things Crypto that I have come across. I'll update this page with new information as
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- [Lower Home Mortgage Payments With The Best New Loan and Refinance Rates](https://savingtoinvest.com/best-mortgage-rates-for-refinancing-and-new-home-loans/) - Mortgage rates are ridiculously low nowadays thanks to significant federal government policies to combat the Coronavirus/COVID-19 economic fallout. Coupled with mild inflation and already low interest rates thanks to federal reserve actions to keep markets liquid (i.e quantitative easing) we can expect low interest rates for several more years. While this is not great news
- [Privacy Policy](https://savingtoinvest.com/privacy-policy/) - Who we are Our website address is: https://savingtoinvest.com. What personal data we collect and why we collect it Comments When visitors leave comments on the site we collect the data shown in the comments form, and also the visitor’s IP address and browser user agent string to help spam detection. An anonymized string created from