Inflation or Recession – Which is Worse?

Overhead interstate sign that says Heading for recession? with a sunset in the background

Lately, it’s hard to watch the news or go online without seeing two popular buzzwords being tossed about – inflation and recession. Many ask, which one is worse? How worried should I be? Or even – what do they mean and how are they different?

10% Social Security COLA in 2023?  We Will See!

Close up of a social security benefits application form

Once in a while, times like this offer us a glimmer of hope – a silver lining, if you will. And right now, that silver lining is in the form of a potentially impressive COLA on Social Security benefit. 

Are You Tapping Your Pandemic Savings to Cope with Inflation?

Close up of a woman holding a jar full of coins that is labeled Savings

We’re seeing families having to draw on their savings, which includes money from the child tax credit as well as pre-pandemic savings, to combat higher costs on gas, food, healthcare and more, especially because wage gains are not keeping up.

Kids and Money . . . It’s Up to You & Me

Young girl placing a coin into a Volkswagon van shaped piggy bank

Why is it so important for parents to teach their kids financial literacy? A 2022 study by Fidelity discovered that roughly 72% of the teens say they have “no knowledge about trading stocks and ETFs.” And almost half the 13- to 17-year-olds surveyed said that investing “feels out of reach” for them.

Is There a Magic Bullet for Retirement?

4% overlaying a lamp and a neon graph with a spike up

For almost three decades, the 4% rule has often been used as the rule of thumb for retirees in determining their withdrawal rate. But considering today’s market and economic conditions, can retirees really rely on this old standby to guarantee they won’t run out of money?

Financial Planning Breeds Financial Success!

A stack of financial documents, forms, and a lined notebook on a wood panel table

With no shortage of financial myths and mysteries to choose from, there is possibly none bigger than the concept that financial planning is only for the wealthy. The truth for most folks, however, is just the opposite – financial planning is actually a path to becoming wealthy.

Forgive the Loan – or the Interest?

Buliding with a transparent overlay of multiple $1 bills with up arrows and a percentage sign

Potentially forgiving student loans is a controversial topic these days. I’ve weighed in before on the current administration’s proposals and ideas. There are additional financial consequences to this proposal for the borrowers, too.

Retirement Savings – Another Victim of Today’s Inflation

An older couple sitting on a bench enjoying the mountainous view over the water

Higher prices at the gas pump, the grocery store, the airport, and many other items affected by today’s high inflation are challenging us to stretch our dollars as far as they can go – and for some, their retirement savings are taking the hit.