Here are some things you might consider before saying goodbye to 2020. What has changed for you in 2020? For many, this year has been as complicated as learning a new dance. Did you start a new job or leave a job behind? That’s one step. Did you retire? There’s another step. Did you start a family? That’s practically a pirouette. If notable changes occurred in your perso … [Read more...] about End-of-the-Year Money Moves. 2020 Edition
Market Update (December 2020)
In this month’s recap: Stock prices powered higher and energized investors thanks to a month-long succession of positive news events. U.S. Markets Stock prices powered higher and emboldened investors in November thanks to a series of positive news events. The Dow Jones Industrial Average, which has lagged much of the year, led the rally, jumping 11.84 percent. The S … [Read more...] about Market Update (December 2020)
Market Update (November 2020)
In this month’s recap: Inaction on a second American fiscal stimulus bill and a rise in global COVID-19 cases put pressure on stock prices in October. U.S. Markets Inaction on a second American fiscal stimulus bill and a rise in global COVID-19 cases put pressure on stock prices in October. The Dow Jones Industrial Average, which has lagged much of the year, dropped 4 … [Read more...] about Market Update (November 2020)
2021 Limits for IRAs, 401(k)s and More
Numbers to know for the new year. On October 26, the Treasury Department released the 2021 adjusted figures for retirement account savings. Although these adjustments won’t bring any major changes, there are some minor elements to note. 401(k)s. The salary deferral amount for 401(k)s remains the same at $19,500, while the catch-up amount of $6,500 also remains u … [Read more...] about 2021 Limits for IRAs, 401(k)s and More
Why Roth IRA Conversions May Now Be Advantageous
Thanks to a couple of factors, some investors are thinking about this move before 2020 ends. Roth IRAs have attracted retirement savers since their introduction in 1998. They offer the potential for tax-free retirement income, provided Internal Revenue Service rules are followed. Do Roth IRAs seem even more attractive these days? Perhaps. You can cite two factors: … [Read more...] about Why Roth IRA Conversions May Now Be Advantageous
FAFSA Applications Are Now Open
Federal Student Aid opportunities are often first-come, first-served. Applications for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) are now open for the academic year 2021-22. Applying for the FAFSA allows you to qualify for grants, scholarships, and other federally-sourced aid, such as work-study or student loans. The applications opened on October 1, 2020, and … [Read more...] about FAFSA Applications Are Now Open
Market Update (October 2020)
In this month’s recap: Stocks dropped during the month as investors worried about stalled fiscal stimulus talks in Washington, the upcoming election, and new coronavirus cases in Europe. U.S. Markets Stocks dropped in September as investors worried about stalled fiscal stimulus talks in Washington, the upcoming election, and new coronavirus cases in Europe. The Dow J … [Read more...] about Market Update (October 2020)
Market Update (September 2020)
In this month’s recap: Stocks prices surged in August as investors cheered positive news of a potential COVID-19 treatment and welcomed a month-long succession of upbeat economic data. U.S. Markets Stock prices surged in August as investors cheered positive news of a potential COVID-19 treatment and welcomed a month-long succession of upbeat economic data. The Dow J … [Read more...] about Market Update (September 2020)