Recent data from Vanguard and Fidelity shows 401(k) hardship withdrawals at record highs as everyday costs rise and savings run thin. Understanding the long-term impact of pulling from your retirement and taking steps to build an emergency fund, can help you avoid...
One of the fastest ways to pay off holiday debt is to lower your interest rates, use a proven payoff method like the Avalanche or Snowball, and make extra payments whenever possible. These steps help reduce interest, speed up your payoff timeline, and eliminate...
According to the IRS (Notice 2025-67, released November 13, 2025), the 401(k) contribution limit will rise to $24,500 for 2026, up $1,000 from 2025, while the IRA contribution limit increases to $7,500 plus a $1,100 catch-up for savers age 50 and...
The final weeks of the year are more than just holiday prep and family gatherings. They’re also your last chance to make financial moves before year-end that could boost your retirement savings, lower your tax bill, and set you up for a stronger 2026. Whether...
If you’re hoping the 2026 Social Security COLA will help ease the pressure of rising costs, don’t get your hopes up. The 2026 increase is only 2.8%.¹ With inflation, Medicare premiums, and everyday expenses climbing faster, it won’t go far. In this post,...
If you’re 50 or older and planning to make catch-up contributions to your 401(k), big changes are on the way – especially if you’re a higher-income earner. The IRS recently issued final regulations under the SECURE 2.0 Act, and they clarify exactly how these...
As retirement plan rules continue to evolve, one area drawing attention is the inclusion of alternative assets in 401(k) plans. In early August 2025, the White House released an executive order that has pushed this issue further into the spotlight. The order...
Mid-year is a common time for people to reassess their finances – including their 401(k) strategy. From market changes to personal life events, the second half of the year often brings new information that could affect how investment allocations align with your goals...
Depending on your 401(k) vesting schedule, it may take you up to 6 years to fully own your matching contributions. Unfortunately, the 401(k) vesting schedule isn’t always clear to everyone. In a recent Vanguard survey, “The firm found that only a third (33%) of...
Whether you are planning to retire in 2 years or 20, you should be looking for ways to maximize 401(k) savings. Many Americans do not have nearly enough to retire, according to recent reports. According to the Retirement Income Institute and Alliance for Lifetime...
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