When to consider a donor-advised fund
Too often we think about charitable giving in the context of the rich and powerful, where, it seems, the rich keep getting richer via some complex charitable strategy. While there are significant tax benefits to properly structured charitable giving, the reality is much less exciting. You will save some percentage of your gift if you do it properly, but you’ll always end up with... READ MORE
Reasons to file an amended tax return
After filing their annual tax return, most Americans — especially those whose employers withhold payroll and income taxes from their paychecks — needn't think about tax filing for many months. Some taxpayers, however, will find themselves in a situation where they should file an amended return. The reasons for doing so include: —The income reported on the original return was ... READ MORE
Help for surprisingly high medical bills
Unexpectedly high medical bills are common in the United States, but there are ways to get relief. While the process of fighting high medical bills can be time-consuming and frustrating, advocates stress that patients shouldn’t be intimidated by the system. If you’ve received a surprise medical bill, here’s what you should know: You may qualify for charity care When... READ MORE
They call you honey, then ask for money
Finding a partner can be difficult. You may be tempted to look for love online. Unfortunately, criminals are also on the hunt — but for victims, not romance. “Meeting people online has opened the door to romance fraud,” said Kim Casci-Palangio, program director of the peer support program at the nonprofit Cybercrime Support Network in Ann Arbor, Michigan. “You feel you... READ MORE
Considering a mortgage refi? Consider this
Mortgage rates haven’t been this attractive in more than a year, which is good news for homeowners eager to refinance. Many homeowners have already jumped at the opportunity to lower their monthly payment, spurring a surge in mortgage refinancing applications. And that was before the average rate on a 30-year mortgage fell in September to 6.35%, according to mortgage buyer... READ MORE
Retirement survey’s surprising results
Retirement planning isn’t the most obvious hook for a love song. “We can rent a cottage in the Isle of Wight, if it’s not too dear,” sings Paul McCartney in the Beatles song “When I’m 64.” “We shall scrimp and save.” Things have panned out slightly different than McCartney, now 82, imagined. With a net worth of $1.3 billion, he’s pretty far from scrimping and... READ MORE
Got Medicare? You have choices to make
Here are some tips for choosing insurance and prescription drug coverage for the coming year during Medicare’s open enrollment period, which opens October 15 and closes December 7. Enrollment in Medicare Advantage plans continues to rise. “Medicare Advantage plans are growing in popularity because they are very good at communicating with consumers and offering benefits like dental, ... READ MORE
2.7 billion IDs hacked in recent breach
You are probably affected National Public Data (NPD) is a private company based in Florida that collects information for background checks. Its databases held 2.7 billion people’s full name, address, date of birth, Social Security number and phone number, alternate names and birth dates and email addresses. NPD was hacked in April, and possibly again this summer, and all ... READ MORE
How to invest when the market is volatile
U.S. stocks are bouncing back after the market experienced its worst day in two years last month, but the average investor may still be understandably spooked. Over a three-day losing streak, the S&P 500 dipped more than 6% before rallying again the next day, up 1.6% in midday trading. “This is what an emotion-driven market looks like,” said Mark Hackett, head of... READ MORE
Be sure to organize documents for heirs
Even if your estate plan is in order, it won’t be of much help to your heirs if they can’t locate important documents when you’re no longer around. Organizing your financial and estate-planning documents — and letting your family know where you’ve stored them — will make it easier for your loved ones to care for you if you become incapacitated, and it will smooth the... READ MORE
Money 2024
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