Are you getting the best rate of return on investment? Kiplinger's Personal Finance Magazine annually discusses ways to boost your investment yield in its latest issue. I have to say that I am always pretty disappointed with their recommendations. I love the magazine, but I didn't really care for a list of mutual funds and Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs). But, I wanted concrete ideas on how to earn a 10% annual rate of return on my investments. US Treasuries are earning less than 1% and money market funds are not fairing much better. Certificates … [Read more...] about The Ultimate Guide to Earning a 10% Rate of Return on Your Investments
Why You Can’t Rely on Social Security for Retirement
Sooner than you think, there will come a time when you can no longer work. Perhaps you have grown too tired of the daily grind, or perhaps your fading health will prevent you from maintaining lasting employment. Regardless of the reason, you will need to retire. Unfortunately, most Americans aren’t adequately prepared for retirement. A 2019 study found that 64 percent of Americans lack sufficient retirement savings, and an astonishing 48 percent of them are apathetic about their lack of retirement plans. Many of these Americans believe … [Read more...] about Why You Can’t Rely on Social Security for Retirement
Guide to Investing in Your 30s – What You Need to Know
Everyone matures at their own pace, but generally speaking, your 30s are a time when you’re no longer spending money as frivolously as you did when you were younger and you’re starting to get really serious about how you want to map out and pursue your financial goals for the rest of your life. Whereas 20-somethings are still figuring out who they are and what they want to do in the future, a 30-something is likely established in their career, ready to start (or already started) a family, considering the possibility of buying a home … [Read more...] about Guide to Investing in Your 30s – What You Need to Know
How Rising Healthcare Costs Can Frustrate Your Retirement Dreams
Although elderly people (ages 65 and older) only account for 16% of the current U.S. population, data from the Kaiser Family Foundation found this age group accounts for 36% of all healthcare spending in the U.S. each year. When you factor in people 55+ years old, this demographic comprises just 29% of the U.S. population but accounts for 56% of all healthcare spending. The fact that older people have more expensive, more frequent healthcare needs than younger people is no surprise, but it’s alarming to see just how much money quality … [Read more...] about How Rising Healthcare Costs Can Frustrate Your Retirement Dreams
When You Might Need Professional Financial Planning Services?
Financial planning is something many people mistakenly believe is only for rich people or older people who are approaching retirement. The reality is that financial planning services can come in helpful at various stages of life far before you get ready to retire. It also is handy for people regardless of how much money or how many assets they have. It is never the wrong time to get your finances in order. You don't need to be well off to benefit from these services, either. Using these services is a smart move that can help you determine … [Read more...] about When You Might Need Professional Financial Planning Services?
How to Lower Internet Bill – 8 Simple Ways to Try
Paying for the internet can be a huge drag in the U.S. because diversified options in the market scarcely exist. Internet service providers (ISPs) are notoriously monopolistic, but the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has done little to regulate Internet companies and prevent them from price gouging customers with shady advertising and pricing tactics (especially when the ISP is the only provider in the area, leaving customers with no option but to continue service with them). If you’re frustrated with your current Internet provider … [Read more...] about How to Lower Internet Bill – 8 Simple Ways to Try
Experian Boost™ Review – A New Way to Boost Your Credit Scores
Disclosures - This post is brought to you by Experian and contains affiliate links. While this was a sponsored opportunity, all content and opinions expressed here are my own. With Experian Boost™* results may vary. Some may not see improved scores or approval odds. Not all lenders use Experian credit files, and not all lenders use scores impacted by Experian Boost.* Some links may be affiliate links where I may earn a small commission if you choose to click on it. One of the most important numbers in any adult’s life is their credit … [Read more...] about Experian Boost™ Review – A New Way to Boost Your Credit Scores