General Insights

The majority of Americans have embraced the convenience of online, automatic bill payments. Autopay can save time, reduce clutter, and prevent missed payments, which may impair credit scores or lead to penalties. It also offers more control – allowing us to schedule the payment – compared to not knowing when a check will arrive or…

For many of us, Social Security plays an important part in our financial plans for retirement or later stage of life. So even if you’re years away from applying for benefits, there are good reasons to set up your online Social Security account at www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount. You can go online to ensure there aren’t any gaps…

Once you complete this year’s taxes, you may wonder what to do with that pile of records, 1099s, receipts, and bank statements. The IRS recommends holding on to any documents related to the income you’re reporting or any deduction or credit you’re claiming, including: Proof of income, including W-2s and 1099s, bank and brokerage statements,…

In late December, Congress passed a $900 billion stimulus package, which included $600 checks to qualifying citizens. After initially refusing to sign the bill unless the checks were increased to $2,000, President Trump signed it. Although the House voted to increase the checks, the Senate didn’t pick up the vote, leaving the original package unchanged.…

Despite a crazy year or perhaps because of it, over half of Americans are expected to make at least one financial resolution for 2021.1 If you haven’t identified yours, here are a few to consider. Pad your retirement savings. You probably spent less on travel, restaurants, movies, gas, or sporting events in 2020. Why not…

As a youngster, your parent warned you not to trust strangers. When your parent grows older, it’s time to return the favor. Seniors are frequent targets for financial scams. Many have considerable assets and excellent credit. Growing up, they were taught to be polite and trusting. Loneliness and too much free time can cause them…

Looking for gifts that will be appreciated long after the holiday decorations are stashed away for next year? Here are a few ideas for presents with lasting impacts. For younger children or teens: Encourage an interest in investing with a gift card from Stockpile.com. For $25, $50, or $100, you can purchase fractional shares of…

Despite the pandemic, two-thirds of U.S. employers still plan to offer their employees year-end bonuses. If you work for one of those companies, it is wise to come up with a thoughtful plan for the extra cash. If you need more time to consider your options, deposit the money in a savings account. It will…

Whether it’s due to the holiday spirit or taking advantage of tax deductions before it’s too late, one-third of annual charitable donations are made in December.1 Just as you try to be a mindful shopper who avoids impulse purchases, it’s important to be a careful giver who thoughtfully evaluates emotion-tugging appeals. The following tips can…

If you’re among the 49 percent of Americans who receive employer-sponsored health care coverage, you may have already received information on your company’s open enrollment. In previous years, you might not have taken much time to review your company’s options. But the current pandemic underscores the importance of securing the best possible coverage and value.…