The Internal Revenue Service or IRS changes perks and contribution limits for various tax-advantaged accounts based on annual inflation changes. While the inflation rate has come down, it’s still high enough to result in small […]
If you want to become wealthy, an essential habit you should create is regularly investing a portion of your income in a tax-advantaged retirement account. You may have an excellent option at work, like a 401(k) […]
Being a homeowner has its pros and cons. It can help or hurt your finances depending on your location, mortgage debt, property taxes, insurability, and goals. The joys include having a place to call your […]
A listener named Wasittha asked me the following question: “I’ve been trying to max out my IRA and 401(k). However, I’ll be unemployed next year for a while–hopefully not for too long. Since I started my […]
If you’re a homeowner or want to be one someday, there will likely be a time you want or need to sell your real estate. So, it’s essential to understand various ways to sell a […]
If you’ve ever been envious of someone getting free money in their retirement account from an employer that “matches” contributions, you might be interested in how to qualify for matching without an employer! Even if […]
Today’s topic comes from Scott, who says: “I’ve contributed to my 401(k) for many years and have a decent balance. I’m unsure if I should keep investing the same amount each year or make some sacrifices and […]
If you’re like me, you love the idea of having tax-free income in retirement. The primary way to do that is by investing in Roth retirement accounts. Having more money in a Roth is terrific […]
Hi again! As you know, on the Money Girl podcast I answer your burning money questions! Today’s topic comes from Mary, who says: “I know that I need to invest for the future but really don’t know […]
Most of us would like to give more to causes we care about, whether animal welfare, the environment, or curing a disease. However, you may have issues holding you back from giving, like your budget, […]
Whether your bank account balance was low, you forgot to make a payment, or the mail arrived late, missing a due date on a credit card or loan feels terrible. If you don’t take quick […]
Today’s topic comes from Sarah, who says, “I’m starting my first real job with benefits soon, and I should have a little money left each month to start investing. I want to make it grow […]
If you’re an investor or want to be one, you’ve probably heard that it’s critical to rebalance your investment portfolio. Rebalancing is shifting investments, so you have the right balance of risk and reward to […]
If you’re a homeowner, your mortgage payment is probably your largest monthly expense. So, it’s wise to stay alert for opportunities to refinance your home loan for a lower interest rate and cut your payment. […]
If you have a workplace retirement account, like a 401(k), 403(b) or 457 plan, it should be your go-to for investing because it’s loaded with benefits, including: Tax benefits High contribution limits Employer matching (in […]
Today’s article comes from a question for Money Girl listener Nancy P., who says: “I recently discovered your podcast and really enjoy it! I’m 60, single, have an annual income of $84,000, and want to retire at […]
The annual inflation rate for the United States looks much better than when it shot up to 7% in 2021 and 6.5% in 2022. Last year, inflation came down to 3.4%, and as of July 11, 2024, […]
“I’m 45 and have arranged my lifestyle to live on about $18,000 per year. Since I don’t have a mortgage, any other debt, or kids at home, this income covers my expenses, barring any surprises. […]
Whether you’re feeling stressed out by a high-pressure job or dreaming of a different lifestyle, getting ready for retirement sooner rather than later is a wise money move! Image Credit: Alessandro Biascioli / iStock. When […]
Today, I’m excited to be joined by a special guest, Abigail Hale, who goes by Abbie. She’s the Head of Growth at Found, an all-in-one banking solution. She graduated Cum Laude from Princeton University and has experience […]
Today’s topic comes from Jesse F., who says: “I’m 52 and self-employed and my wife is 51 and works for a hospital. We recently moved from New Mexico to Florida. What do you recommend I do with […]
If you’re like me, some years you get really inspired by setting money goals, but for others, it just doesn’t happen. Whether you set financial resolutions at the beginning of the year or wish you […]
Today, I have three excellent questions about reducing taxes and saving money. Kari says, “Love your podcast! Can you clarify whether investing in a Roth IRA and I bonds helps your taxes by reducing your taxable income–or […]
If you work for a company, organization, or government entity that offers a retirement plan, like a 401(k), 403(b), or 457, it’s an excellent way to invest for the future and reduce your taxes. In […]
I answer a question from a listener named Maya, who says: “Hi, Laura, I love the podcast! My husband and I are in our mid-thirties with a dual household income of $175,000 and two kids […]
Having tax-free income in retirement from a Roth IRA can help you stretch your savings much farther after you stop working. However, there’s a catch: if you earn too much, you can’t contribute to a […]
If you’re considering buying or leasing a car, your knowledge about the options and how you prepare for a deal can make all the difference in your finances. We’ll review eight tips to get the […]
This week on the Finance Friday installment , a great question from Elaine. “I’m retired and have Social Security benefits, a pension, savings, and a traditional IRA. About six years ago, I bought some real estate stock that […]
If you’re too busy to stay up-to-date on financial markets and investing strategies, one of the best ways to boost your returns with minimal effort is using a robo-investing platform. Whether your goal is to […]
We have two great retirement questions today. The first comes from Kevin, who says, “My wife and I have loved your podcasts for years and are taking every possible step to build our financial futures. We’re in […]