Understanding the Saver’s Credit [2026]
If you’re saving for retirement on a modest income, the federal government may help pay for part of it. The Saver’s Credit is one of the least-used tax breaks in the tax code. 2026 is also the last year it works in its current form. Here’s how it works, what can shrink it, and what
When You Apply for Insurance, Your Credit History Counts
Introduction Many people are surprised to learn that their credit history plays a significant role in the insurer’s decision-making process when applying for auto or homeowners insurance. Insurance companies often use credit-based insurance scores to assess an applicant’s level of risk and determine the cost of premiums. While this practice is controversial, insurers argue
Finding the Right Home
Introduction If you don’t really know what you’re looking for in a home, how do you find the right one? Careful planning and consideration of your options can help ensure that you will be happy with the one you select. You may decide that buying a traditional, single-family home is not your best bet.
Planning a Family? Get to Know Your Health Insurance Policy
Introduction Preparing to grow your family is an exciting and meaningful life decision, but it also comes with new financial and healthcare responsibilities. One of the most important steps you can take is to review your health insurance policy. What may have worked well for your routine medical needs may no longer be sufficient
The Financial Impact of High-Conflict Co-Parenting
What Every Woman Needs to Know about High-Conflict Co-Parenting You expect divorce to cost money: attorney retainers, filing fees, maybe mediation. What most women don’t expect is how long the financial fallout can last when a co‑parent stays difficult, controlling, or chronically combative. High‑conflict co‑parenting doesn’t just drain your energy; it quietly drains your bank
Before You Say “I Do”
What To Have in Place, According to a Certified Divorce Coach Premarital money checklist for couples, by Katrina Newton, a Gottman‑trained relationship expert Money differences predict relationship distress more strongly than almost any other issue—and they’re 100% navigable with shared meaning and simple systems. Executive summary Marriage merges finances and futures. The couples who last
Long-Term Care Insurance Provisions
Introduction Long term care insurance (LTCI) is a key component of financial planning for those looking to protect their assets and ensure access to quality care later in life. Understanding what provisions are included in an LTCI policy is essential to selecting the right coverage for your needs. From when benefits begin to what types
Should You Buy Long-Term Care Insurance?
Introduction As life expectancy continues to rise, so does the likelihood that you or someone you love will need long-term care. While it may not be pleasant to think about, preparing for the possibility of needing assistance with daily living activities can protect your financial future and preserve your independence. Long-term care insurance (LTCI) is
Use Your Annuity to Pay for Long-Term Care Insurance
Introduction Paying for long-term care is one of the biggest financial challenges many people face later in life. While long-term care insurance (LTCI) can help protect your assets and provide greater flexibility in care options, the premiums can be costly. If you own a nonqualified annuity, there’s a tax-efficient strategy that may help using
Long-Term Care Insurance (LTCI) as a Protection Planning Tool
Introduction Long term care insurance (LTCI) plays a critical role in protection planning, particularly as Americans live longer and face increased chances of needing assistance with daily activities later in life. While Medicare and traditional health insurance plans offer limited coverage for long term care, LTCI can fill the gap by helping cover the high