What does debt mean to you? You might view “debt” as a dirty word, accompanied by the shackle of interest rates and missed payments. But you might view “credit” differently. Credit is seen as a financial tool, and a good credit score as something to be nurtured and coveted. We treat them as distinct financial […]
Debt, Credit, and Honoring the Favor Read More »
How often do you use a credit card? Perhaps you even use more than one. In today’s economy, the small rectangle of plastic (or metal) in your wallet is more than just a tool for buying groceries; it is a gateway to a complex financial ecosystem. To truly understand credit cards, we have to look
The Rise of Consumer Credit and How to Manage Your Own Read More »
March is the start of spring, which means the chilly weather is subsiding, the days are getting longer, and you might even begin planning your summer plans. But March is also National Credit Awareness Month. While cleaning out your gutters or planting seeds might be on your to-do list, this month serves as a vital
Celebrating National Credit Awareness Month Read More »
As we gather with family and friends this week, many of us have spent time picking out the perfect gifts to wrap and lovingly place under the tree. We eagerly await them opening our gift and sharing in the joy we had while selecting it especially for them. And though traditional presents like gadgets and
Give the Gift of Financial Planning This Holiday Season Read More »
As the year winds down and the holiday season approaches, December brings a natural opportunity to pause, reflect, and realign. For retirees, this season is a perfect time to give your financial life a little attention before the calendar flips to a new year. Annual limits and other financial standards refresh at the end of
5 Year-End Financial Moves for the Holidays Read More »
Deciding whether to keep your retirement savings in accounts like IRAs or 401(k)s versus transferring those funds to an annuity is a question many people face as they approach retirement. But before we jump in, there’s no rule that says you have to pick one, and both offer different benefits and come with different limits
Should I Keep My Retirement Account or Use Annuities? Read More »
As Thanksgiving approaches, many of us take this time to reflect on what we’re thankful for. Gratitude for family and good health are usually on the list, but some of us may have the added blessing of an inheritance from a loved one who is no longer with us. But what do we do with
What to Do with Your Inheritance Read More »
Though no one likes to think about it, as we age, we may not always be able to handle things on our own. When daily activities become too difficult, long-term care helps provide the assistance we may need with tasks such as bathing, dressing or eating. Though it isn’t covered by standard health insurance or
When Should I Plan for Long‑Term Care? Read More »
What exactly are “hidden costs” in retirement? Hidden costs are the expenses that don’t make it into your retirement spreadsheet—but still show up in real life. They include things like rising healthcare bills, inflation, home repairs, and financial support for family. While not necessarily “surprise” expenses, they’re often underestimated or completely forgotten in retirement planning.
Hidden Retirement Costs—What You Don’t Plan for Can Impact Your Finances Read More »
On May 16, 2025, Moody’s downgraded the U.S. sovereign credit rating from Aaa to Aa1, citing concerns over the nation’s rising debt and interest payment burdens. This move follows similar downgrades by S&P in 2011 and Fitch in 2023, marking the first time all three major credit agencies have rated U.S. debt below their top
Follow the Bond Market to Better Understand Your Finances Read More »
