The terms and acronyms of finance can be perplexing, and it’s easy to become confused. Financial terminology can sometimes seem like an effort to use the most syllables or the longest string of letters possible to describe something. But it’s important to know what these terms mean when making your way through personal and business Read more
When Not If: Economic Data and The Fed’s Rate Cut(s)
The Federal Reserve increased rate in 2022 and 2023 as the central bank sought to contain surging inflation. Now, in 2024, with price pressures easing and the economy still strong, Fed officials are poised to bring rates down at a slower pace. Because the Fed’s benchmark rate influences lending costs for mortgages, cars, and credit Read more
W-2, 1099, 1098? A Tax-Day Translation
With Super Bowl Sunday, Mardi Gras, and Valentine’s Day finished, the holiday season is well and truly over. It’s time to get back to the grind, represented by the sometimes frantic, often less-celebratory Tax Day: April 15. So, pack away the team banners, sparkly beads, and heart-shaped cards. The W-2 is arriving (or the 1099 Read more
Getting a Good Start: A Guide to Investing
Think you don’t have enough money to start investing? Think again. Anyone can learn to begin investing, even if you start your journey with just $100. But when you do start investing, the most important part of the process is to have some basic knowledge. Investing is when you buy something in hopes that it Read more
To-Do List: Time for a New Year of Planning
With the holiday lights and decorations packed neatly (or not) in storage for next season, the party hats and noisemakers swept up with the celebration confetti, and life getting back into its regular rhythm, it’s a good time to reflecting on the past year and important to look at a planning checklist for the next Read more
That College Try: Don’t Delay in Applying for Aid
For prospective college students and their parents, it’s time to knuckle down and apply themselves, literally, by filling out the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA for the 2024-25 award year will be available by December 31, 2023 (delayed from the more usual October 1 release date.). Every high school senior should fill Read more