Budgeting and Financial Planning

We all know that the cost of college is steadily rising, perhaps faster than anything else we spend our money on. Despite that fact, Americans overwhelming opt to get a degree. So what does that mean for our economy? New data proves that because of the rising cost of college, and the subsequent increase in… Read More

One common piece of personal finance advice seen online is a spending ban. A spending ban is a self-inflicted ban on spending for certain items as a way of saving money for a particular time period. For example, a person might say to themselves that they will not spend money on eating out for 6… Read More

Americans today are notoriously bad at saving for retirement, which is a problem, and not just for those of us that belong to the group that has no retirement savings. Americans age 65 and up have higher healthcare costs, traditionally, and are living longer than ever. USA Today is out with a few new retirement… Read More

Life insurance is not a topic people spend much time thinking about. That’s because it is only ever necessary in death, a subject we don’t like thinking much about ever. But if you have people that depend on you – a spouse, children, employees – life insurance is an important part of your personal financial… Read More

Financial advisors traditionally serve the wealthier among us, who are historically more proactive with their money, because they have more of it. But these industry professionals can be a good idea for anyone looking to make smarter financial decisions, and can benefit people across the income spectrum. But only if you hire the right ones…. Read More

In almost every political cycle, you are likely to hear candidates talk endlessly about America’s middle class. But just who are they talking about? Are you in the middle class? And what can people in the middle class do to make smarter financial choices? While there are many competing definitions of who is middle class… Read More

If someone were to ask you this question, “Which is more important, saving for your own retirement or saving for your newborn’s college education,” how would you answer? If you’re like most people, you would prioritize your child’s education, putting their needs before your own. Makes sense, right? That is the essence of good parenting…. Read More

All Americans, whether they go to college or not, are expected at some point to have the wisdom and experience necessary to make intelligent life decisions. When it comes to managing money, too often we are expected to make decisions before we have the skills or training to do so. And that’s why so many… Read More

Growing one’s wealth comes from following two simple pieces of advice: earn more and spend less. Easier said than done, sure. But still true. Earning more can come from a raise or a promotion, most commonly. But there’s nothing saying that you can’t take it on yourself to earn more when that raise isn’t coming…. Read More

Everyone should have a budget, regardless of where they are in life. An accurate budget can do a few things for you. First, it gives you a clear picture of money in and money out. Second, it keeps you from spending more than you can afford. And third, the simple act of keeping a budget… Read More