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Your guide for retirement news, insights, and resources
Reverse Mortgages: A Viable Option or a Risky Bet?
A reverse mortgage can seem like a lifeline offering access to much-needed cash during retirement. However, understanding the benefits, drawbacks, and potential pitfalls is crucial before deciding if this option aligns with your financial goals. The Basics: How Reverse Mortgages Work Reverse mortgages offer a way to convert home equity into cash without monthly mortgage…
Continue ReadingProtecting Your Biggest Investment: The Realities of Homeowners Insurance
On Oct 28th of last year, we published an issue on insurance and it was all about protecting ourselves…but what about our homes? Ideally, homeowners insurance is your safety net, shielding you from life’s unexpected disasters. Yet, ask anyone who’s had to file a claim, and you’ll often hear a story of frustration, denial, or…
Continue ReadingThe Money Talk: Guiding Your Children Through Career and Education Choices
In today’s rapidly evolving job market, having honest conversations with your children about career choices and financial independence has never been more crucial. As parents, we want to set our kids up for success, but the traditional path of “go to college, get a good job” may not be the best advice for everyone. Let’s…
Continue ReadingUnderstanding Cryptocurrency: A Primer for Conservative Investors
After spending January exploring the fundamentals of financial planning – from estate planning to choosing your professional team, and diving deep into ETFs and mutual funds – we now face a topic we’ve been hesitant to address: cryptocurrency. As your guide to financial literacy, we believe it’s time to tackle this subject, not because we’re…
Continue ReadingInvestment Coaching Scams
Investing can feel overwhelming, which is why some turn to coaching programs for guidance. But not all offers are what they seem. Scammers often prey on your desire for financial success, promising secrets to wealth through investment strategies – only to leave you with empty pockets. Investment coaching scams have become increasingly prevalent in today’s…
Continue ReadingThe Art of Letting Go: How Simplifying Can Boost Your Retirement Well-Being
When it comes to retirement planning, most of the focus is on saving money, maximizing investments, and preparing for the future. But what about simplifying your life now? Decluttering both physical and mental spaces can significantly reduce stress and improve your focus, giving you the clarity to align your decisions with what truly matters for…
Continue ReadingDIY or Delegate? How to Decide Which Financial Tasks to Take On Yourself
There’s a lot of buzz about taking control of your finances – and for good reason. Knowledge is power, and being hands-on with your money can save you time and fees. But not everything should be a do-it-yourself project. Here’s how to decide what’s worth tackling solo and when it’s smarter to call in the…
Continue ReadingThe Emotional Side of Estate Planning: Passing Down Values Alongside Your Assets
By now, you’ve seen how estate planning can save your loved ones from unnecessary headaches and keep your hard-earned money where you want it. But let’s face it: while the financial side of things is critical estate planning is also about something bigger. It’s your chance to leave behind more than just money – it’s…
Continue ReadingThe Hidden Costs of Poor Planning: Titling of Assets and Avoiding Probate Pitfalls
So, you’ve got a will, maybe even a trust, and you’re feeling good about your estate plan. But here’s the thing: how your assets are titled can completely derail even the best-laid plans. This part of estate planning doesn’t get much attention, but it’s one of the most critical steps if you want to avoid…
Continue ReadingCharity Scams – Giving Safely as the Year Ends
The holiday season is a time of generosity, with many of us eager to support causes close to our hearts. Unfortunately, it’s also a prime time for scammers to exploit this goodwill. Fake charities and fraudulent campaigns spike at year-end, preying on the uptick in donations. Here’s how to protect yourself while ensuring your contributions…
Continue ReadingThe Ownership Illusion: Is Homeownership Still the American Dream?
Owning a home has long been a cornerstone of the American Dream, and recent surveys show that sentiment hasn’t changed. According to Realtor.com and Bankrate, homeownership remains a top priority for many Americans. Even those who anticipate challenges in achieving it still view owning a home as a key marker of success and an essential…
Continue ReadingSmart Strategies for Education Funding: Unlocking the Benefits of 529 Plans and Tackling the True Costs of College
Planning your child’s education is a pivotal financial milestone, and with college costs continually rising, having a solid strategy is more important than ever. While grants, scholarships, and student loans can help bridge the gap, these options are often uncertain and difficult to plan for in advance. This guide focuses on the key savings tools…
Continue Reading2025 Market Outlook: Putting Your Financial Knowledge to Work
Now that we’re a month into 2025, we can begin to see how the year is taking shape and evaluate the major forecasts with fresh eyes. Over the past few weeks, we’ve explored the fundamentals of financial literacy – from understanding different types of investment accounts to breaking down various asset classes and investment strategies.…
Continue ReadingUnderstanding Investment Fees: What You’re Paying For and Why It Matters
When it comes to investing, fees might not be the most exciting topic, but they’re one of the most important. We keep talking about keeping fees low and leaning toward ETFs – but in the end that is a personal decision as mutual funds do come with some added benefits. So in order to arm…
Continue ReadingYour Investment Starter Pack: Essentials and First Steps
Starting your investment journey might feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With a clear plan and the right approach, you can set yourself up for long-term success. Over the last two weeks, we’ve covered the importance of building the right financial team and understanding your investment account options. Now, it’s time to take…
Continue ReadingWhere to Start: Choosing the Right Account for Your Investments
For many people, the hardest part of investing is simply figuring out where to begin. After all, understanding ETFs and mutual funds is one thing, but knowing where to hold those investments is another challenge altogether. Let’s break down the basics of different types of investment accounts to help you understand how they work and…
Continue ReadingETFs vs Mutual Funds: How to Choose What’s Right for You
Last week, we explored the basics of managing investments on your own versus working with a professional. For some, the decision to go it alone is more than a way to save time or money – it’s an exciting opportunity to dive deeper into a topic they genuinely enjoy. If that resonates with you, one…
Continue ReadingWho’s on Your Team? Choosing the Right Financial Partners
When it comes to managing your financial life, it’s tempting to think you can go it alone. And sure, there are plenty of things you can handle yourself – we’ll get to that in the next article. But some challenges call for a dream team of professionals to guide you through the complexities. The question…
Continue ReadingThe Basics of Estate Planning: Wills, Trusts, and Why They Matter
Estate planning is for anyone who wants to avoid leaving behind a mess. If you want your family to skip unnecessary headaches, legal drama, and extra expenses, you need a plan. This isn’t something to push off for “later” because, let’s face it, “later” has a way of sneaking up on you. Here’s the deal:…
Continue ReadingThe Resolution Revolution: Financial Habits Worth Keeping in the New Year
As we approach the end of another year, it’s tempting to fall into the familiar cycle of setting ambitious New Year’s resolutions, only to abandon them by February. Research shows that the majority of resolutions fail not because they lack merit, but because they’re too grandiose or unsustainable. So, why not break the cycle this…
Continue ReadingVoluntary Separation Incentives: Should You Take the Buyout?
Federal agencies often offer buyouts, known as Voluntary Separation Incentive Payments (VSIPs), or early retirements, called Voluntary Early Retirement Authority (VERA), during times of budget cuts or restructuring. These programs can be enticing, presenting opportunities to step away from federal service with financial benefits. However, they’re not one-size-fits-all solutions and require a thoughtful analysis of…
Continue ReadingFeeling Stuck? How Federal Employees Can Explore New Opportunities Without Jumping Ship
Recent studies show that federal employees earn, on average, nearly a quarter less than their private-sector peers. For many, this disparity raises questions about career growth and financial security. But before making the leap to the private sector, it’s worth exploring the opportunities already available to federal employees to improve their financial and career outlook.…
Continue ReadingFederal Workforce in Flux: Navigating Uncertainty Under the New Administration
With the Trump administration preparing to take office alongside a Republican-controlled Congress, federal employees face a period of uncertainty and speculation. Proposals such as downsizing agencies like the FDA and Department of Education or creating a new Department of Government Efficiency have sparked concerns and raised questions about what lies ahead. While headlines may suggest…
Continue ReadingFEHB Open Season Final Week Reminder: Last Chance to Review Your 2025 Health Plan Options
With just one week left in the 2025 Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Open Season, now is the time to make any final adjustments to your health coverage for the coming year. Open Season ends on Monday, December 9, 2024, so use this last week to ensure your plan fits your needs and budget. This…
Continue ReadingHoliday Shopping Discounts for Federal Employees
The holiday season is right around the corner, and with it comes the opportunity to take advantage of exclusive discounts available to you as a federal employee. From electronics to travel deals, there are plenty of savings to be found if you know where to look. Here’s your guide to making the most of your…
Continue ReadingCalculate Your FERS Pension: A Comprehensive Guide
Calculating your FERS (Federal Employees Retirement System) pension is a critical step in planning for your retirement, but it can be confusing. Although federal agencies provide estimates, they don’t always capture your unique situation. Understanding how your pension is calculated and taking responsibility for the process ensures accuracy and helps avoid surprises when you retire.…
Continue ReadingCyber Scams Targeting Kids: What Every Parent Should Know
With kids spending more time online, they are increasingly exposed to scams designed to catch them off guard. From fake giveaways to phishing attempts in games and apps, these scams can compromise your child’s data—and even lead to unauthorized purchases. Here’s a guide to understanding the types of scams that target kids, with practical steps…
Continue ReadingBreaking the Cycle: How Kids Learn Bad Financial Habits Early and How to Help
Kids absorb financial habits quickly, often without even realizing it. Some of these behaviors—like impulsive spending or avoiding money conversations—can persist into adulthood, impacting long-term financial well-being. By identifying these tendencies early on, parents can guide their children toward healthier financial habits that support a more secure future. Identifying Impulsive Spending BehaviorsMany kids see immediate…
Continue ReadingTSP Loans: Understanding Your Options and Making the Right Decision
A Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) loan can be a useful tool for federal employees who need access to funds while still employed. However, there are several important details to consider before deciding if this option is right for you. Here’s a closer look at the types of TSP loans, the process, and key considerations to…
Continue ReadingFEGLI vs. WAEPA: Choosing the Right Life Insurance for Federal Employees
As a federal employee, life insurance options can sometimes feel overwhelming. Two primary choices are the Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) and the Worldwide Assurance for Employees of Public Agencies (WAEPA). While both offer life insurance coverage tailored to government workers, their differences in pricing, coverage, and flexibility can significantly impact your decision. Let’s…
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