For many parents, one of the biggest financial questions they face is: How much should I actually be saving for my child’s college education? The answer depends on a variety of factors, including the type of school your child may attend, their current age, and how early you begin saving. But one thing is clear — college costs have risen dramatically over time. College Costs Have Outpaced Nearly Everything Else Since 1983, the cost of college tuition has increased over 900% ,

Most people check their 401(k) balance periodically, especially when markets are volatile or when a quarterly statement hits their inbox, but far fewer take the time to look beneath the surface and understand what is actually inside the account. Your 401(k) is likely one of the largest financial assets you own outside of your home, yet many investors cannot confidently explain: Their stock vs. bond allocation Which specific funds they hold What those funds cost in internal fe

Trump Accounts: A New Long-Term Savings Option for Children Trump Accounts are a new federally authorized savings and investment option designed to give American children an early start on long-term financial growth. Introduced as part of a broader economic initiative tied to America’s 250th anniversary, these accounts aim to expand access to investing, promote ownership, and encourage long-term savings from birth. Trump Accounts combine features of both an IRA and a custodia

Beginning in 2026, the SECURE 2.0 Act introduces an important change to how certain workers age 50 and older can make catch-up contributions to employer-sponsored retirement plans. For higher earners, these additional contributions will now be required to go into Roth accounts. Understanding how this rule works—and whether it applies to you—can help you plan ahead and avoid surprises when the change takes effect. How the Roth Catch-Up Requirement Works Starting January 1, 202

As we close the books on 2025, it’s a good time to step back and look at what actually happened in the markets—and what it means moving forward. This year was a reminder that markets rarely move in straight lines, even during strong years. Where We Started Markets entered 2025 near all-time highs following a strong finish to 2024. Optimism around economic growth, corporate earnings, and emerging technologies—particularly artificial intelligence—continued to support equity ma

As the end of the year approaches, many tax planning opportunities begin to close. While there are numerous strategies available, most individuals and families benefit most from focusing on just a few core areas. Below are the three most common and impactful year-end tax strategies  to review before December 31. 1. Maximize Retirement Contributions One of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce current-year taxable income is to fully fund available retirement accounts.

The Department of the Treasury and the IRS have released official guidance on Trump Accounts , a newly created type of individual retirement account (IRA) designed to help children begin building long-term wealth. These accounts were introduced as part of the Working Families Tax Cuts , and while contributions cannot begin until July 4, 2026 , families can begin preparing now. Below is a comprehensive overview of how Trump Accounts work, who qualifies for the federal seed con

The IRS has released the updated retirement contribution limits for 2026, including new thresholds for 401(k)s, IRAs, SIMPLE plans, and income phase-outs. These annual cost-of-living adjustments give savers an opportunity to increase tax-advantaged contributions and strengthen long-term retirement strategies. Below is a breakdown of the key changes for 2026 and what they may mean for your financial planning. 401(k), 403(b), 457 & Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) For those contributi

When you roll over a 401(k) to an IRA, it’s easy to assume the money is automatically invested and continues growing. But that’s not how it works. Once the rollover is complete, the funds typically land in a settlement account — which is just a holding area in cash. Unless new investments are selected and purchased, your retirement savings may sit idle for months or even years, missing valuable market growth. Main Points: The Cash Trap:  Most custodians (like Schwab or Fideli