If you know what mistakes tend to drain retirement savings, you can take caution, make more informed decisions, and stay on track to fund your dream retirement.
Tax season might not spark joy, but a refund sure can. In 2025, the IRS estimates the average federal income tax refund will top $3,170. 1 That means a lot of folks are suddenly asking the same question: What should I do with it? Splurge? Save? Invest? The good news: there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But there are a few options that tend to deliver more peace of mind and long-term upside. Here are five smart...
What happens when you start to feel afraid or greedy? Do you feel like taking your time and waiting to make your next move?
What do you do when faced with a complex financial challenge? Do you seek an immediate solution, or do you take the time to fully understand the issue before acting? The way you approach financial decisions often depends on your perception of time - specifically, how much time you believe you have to respond. 1 When dealing with complex financial matters, urgency can sometimes create pressure on us to act quickly. However, reacting too quickly...
What was the last money mistake you made? If you’re like most folks, you’ve made at least one upsetting money mistake in the past year — and you’d like to do better. In fact, most folks admit their finances have not gotten better over the past year. And at least half of them say the real problem is that their money mistakes have turned into bad financial habits.
Tax season doesn’t have to feel like an uphill battle. With the right strategies, you can minimize your tax bill and keep more of your hard-earned money where it belongs, in your pocket. Whether you’re a DIY tax filer or rely on a pro, understanding these key moves can help you make smarter financial decisions and sidestep costly mistakes. Let’s dive in. 1. Adjust Your Withholding to Avoid Surprises Getting a big refund might feel...
In a perfect world, every money decision we make would be totally rational. We’d consider all of the facts. Then, we’d balance them with the risks to make the most logical choice available. 1 That sounds simple. Yet it doesn’t happen as much as it should in the real world. 1, 2 That’s because many of us aren’t relying on logic and the facts to make financial decisions—and we probably don’t even realize it. 2...
What will happen to your business when it’s time for you to take a step back? That can be a tough question that many business owners eventually have to face. Yet, far too many admit they don't have a formal succession plan in place. In fact, looking at family businesses alone, about 61% say they do not have a documented succession plan. 1 Why? Many business owners say they haven’t put together a succession plan...
What’s your ideal retirement? Traveling? Practicing your favorite hobbies? Caring for loved ones? Whatever you envision, creating a plan of action can feel exhausting. There are, however, a few simple, yet commonly overlooked steps you can take today to help you feel more comfortable throughout your planning process.
Market volatility can feel like a rollercoaster. Thrilling on the way up, stomach-churning on the way down. Even seasoned investors get a little uneasy when the market takes a dive. But here’s the thing: While market fluctuations are inevitable, maintaining a disciplined investment approach has historically helped investors stay on track toward their financial goals. If market swings make you nervous, don’t worry. You’re not alone. We’re going to walk through some key strategies to...
Spring isn’t just about budding plants, changing the clocks, or paying your tax bill. It can be the perfect time to refresh financial tasks and dust off your long-term goals. As we begin a new season of financial “spring cleaning,” here are 4 (commonly made) mistakes you can prevent this year.
How much do you need to retire wealthy? Believe it or not, there’s no set number for anyone. Lifestyle and the quality of your retirement plan are certainly two big factors. But when considering the economy and inflation, a definitive picture of our financial future can feel somewhat elusive. So, to shed a little light (and provide a little guidance), here are a few telltale signs you might be set up for a “comfortable” post-work lifestyle.
