A recession is a prolonged business cycle contraction, which is typically said to occur when the economy goes through at least two quarters of negative GDP growth. Since 1948, there have been at least 12 economic recessions of varying intensity in the US, once every six years on average. Is another about to start? By […]
Category: Real Money
Check Your 401(k) for This Vital Retirement Number
A new law passed by Congress will now require your 401(k) to show you this very important piece of information: How much income to expect in retirement. The Setting Every Community Up for Retirement (SECURE) Act enact several sweeping changes to qualified retirement savings plans such as 401(k)s. One of the most significant aspects of […]
5 Investments That Increase Your Financial Stability
Constantly chasing high yields is fraught with risk, since the assets promising such returns usually have high volatility. To bring the much-needed stability to your investment portfolio, especially during times of economic uncertainty, you should consider investing in these time-tested financial assets. Here are five investments that can increase your financial stability over the long […]
5 Toxic and Dangerous Things You Should Never Buy from a Thrift Shop
Many consumers may compare thrift shop experiences to a treasure hunt adventure. However, if you aren’t careful, it could be a horror movie instead. Thrift shops contain furnishings with obsoleted chemicals, bug-infested products and other things that shouldn’t be bought secondhand on principle. Vintage clothing and accessories aside, avoid these five potentially toxic or dangerous […]
Should You Pay Down Your Mortgage or Invest the Money
Let’s say you have a cash windfall, whether it’s from a relative that passed away, an insurance claim, or you just got lucky with the lottery. The big question is what to do with it. It’s a good problem to have! Unless you are planning on a trip to Las Vegas, any debt that you […]
Retired and Divorcing? Do These Four Things Now
Divorce can occur at any adult age, but its consequences can be more financially destructive the older that we get. We usually hit our financial peak after middle age. And if you have been married for more than a decade but nearing retirement age, then both parties could be emotionally invested in the marriage. If […]
3 Livable Towns Where You Can Retire On Social Security Alone
A significant number of Americans rely on their Social Security benefits as their sole or primary source of income. While that may seem like a startling statistic, it is not as bad as it may sound — depending on where you live. When it comes to Social Security and retirement, the cost of living can […]
Do You Need a Trust or a Regular Will?
Estate planning is a crucial aspect of securing your assets and ensuring your loved ones are taken care of after you pass away. Two primary instruments used for estate planning are trusts and wills. Although both serve similar purposes, they have distinct features that cater to different needs. In this blog, we’ll explore the key […]
3 Reasons to Refinance Your Home Mortgage
With today’s historic low rates, many people are thinking about refinancing their mortgages and lowering their monthly interest expenses. But is it the right time for you? Whether you need to lower your payments or pay for home improvements, here are three good reasons to refinance your home. To get a lower interest rate The best […]
Retire to a Mediterranean Paradise On Just $2,000 a Month
The phrase, “location, location, location” usually refers to real estate transactions. It can also be used to explain the main budgeting consideration when developing a sustainable retirement plan. The cost of retiring increases incrementally every year. Relative cost of living expenses and inflation must be considered when calculating a retirment budget. And for many retirees, […]










