A global health crisis, unexpected medical diagnosis, catastrophic weather event, or national economic downturn can quickly undo your upcoming retirement plans. Your first instinct might be to delay retirement or revise your investment portfolio. While you may need to take these actions, there are other options. In addition to using the checklists below to help manage your finances during...

No one wants to lose money. But that’s precisely what can happen if you don’t stay in touch with your financial institution. Credit unions are legally required to turn a member’s assets over to the state where they’re marked as “unclaimed property,” if there is no account activity or contact with the member for at least one year. Common credit union assets that become unclaimed property include...

While all this can seem a little overwhelming at first, with a strategic approach, you and your family can prepare for the exciting days ahead. Here’s a look at some of the best ways to financially approach a new bundle of joy. Look at the Big Picture Kids can give us a new perspective and really ground us in what’s most important,” says Ashley Feinstein Gerstley, mother, CEO of the Fiscal Femme...

Filing for Social Security benefits as soon as you can — or shortly thereafter — a few years early may seem like a good idea at first. The money is there, for the taking, and it is likely a substantial addition to your monthly budget. But be careful: When you decide to file for your benefits is one of the most critical financial decisions of your life. That’s why it’s important to understand that...

When you first start teaching kids about money, it doesn’t have to feel like a lecture. It can be experiential, fun, and as engaging as you make it. Your goal is to help them develop the kind of healthy spending habits that will turn them into grown-up savers and investors you’ll be proud of. Toys Can Lead The Way Using the idea of buying a toy is a great way to teach children about money, says...

D espite the high prices, there are always some deals that are better than others. That’s why shopping around is a smart way to ensure you get the most out of every dollar you spend. Here’s what to focus on when you’re buying a car, according to auto experts. Start On The Internet Yes, we know. You want to take a test drive. That’ll come. For now, head to a couple of the big car sites and start...

Some recent surveys have shown that many homebuyers express regret. Research from Zillow, for example, showed that 75% of homebuyers wish they had done at least one thing differently. About one-third regret buying a home that needs more work or maintenance than they originally expected. And one-quarter wish they would have purchased in a different area. But don’t panic. Getting through the process...

When buying or leasing a new car, a crucial type of coverage called gap insurance could protect you from unexpected financial loss. Also known as Guaranteed Asset Protection, this optional coverage provides relief during two of the most devastating scenarios car owners can face - when their vehicle is totaled or stolen. Here’s what you should know about gap insurance. How Gap Insurance Works Gap...

College graduates often feel overwhelmed when their student loan payments kick in, especially while juggling new career responsibilities and living expenses. Without a solid plan for handling student loan debt, you might struggle to make payments, damage your credit score, or have to postpone other financial goals. Use these practical tips to design a plan that balances your student loan...

It's filing season and many taxpayers are counting the days until they receive their tax refund. But they’re not the only ones anticipating a financial windfall. Scammers are expecting a bank account boost of their own. Bad actors aim to pocket the money you overpaid in taxes from the previous year and treat themselves at your expense. Crooks, posing as IRS employees, use a variety of methods to...