Tax season brings a new wave of identity theft risks. The FTC reported that individuals lost over $10 billion to fraud in 2023 — a 14% increase — with over 2.6 million consumers falling victim. File Early to Protect Yourself The IRS encourages taxpayers to file as early as possible...

On Jan. 13, 2025, the United States Postal Service and the American Postal Workers Union mutually agreed to a one-time Retirement Incentive, including an “early out” option for eligible employees. The Postal Service will make lump sum incentive payments totaling $15,000 (less applicable taxes and deductions) to eligible full-time career...

A recent Pew survey found that about a third of Americans kicked off 2025 with at least one resolution — and only 13% have completely given up a month in. Here are some innovative approaches to make your resolutions stick. The “12 Mini-Resolutions” Approach Instead of one overwhelming annual...

Social Security is often misunderstood, but it plays a crucial role in most clients’ overall financial strategy. It’s more than retirement — Social Security also covers disability and death benefits, protecting roughly 96% of workers aged 20-49. Delayed claiming increases benefits — Each year past full retirement age (FRA) that...

As we approach the end of 2024, it’s an opportune time to reflect on the year’s financial developments and consider what 2025 may bring. Key Economic Factors in 2024 Interest Rates: The Federal Reserve lowered rates by 0.5% in September — the first reduction since 2020 — bringing the federal...

Healthcare costs in retirement can catch even the most financially savvy individuals off guard. According to Fidelity’s 2024 estimate, the average 65-year-old needs about $165,000 in after-tax savings just to cover healthcare expenses in retirement — up nearly 5% from 2023. Factors Driving Healthcare Costs Healthcare inflation consistently outpaces...