It might not be easy to get out of debt, but it is absolutely worth it. Start with these debt-elimination tips. The increased flexibility and peace of mind you gain when you’re no longer saddled with debt can transform your life — including your mental health.

By acquiring a few good financial habits, you can not only get yourself out of whatever debt you’re in right now but also live debt free indefinitely.

Let’s face it: No one likes paying taxes.

When you start to think about how much of your hard-earned money goes toward them, it can get frustrating—particularly when it comes time to file your taxes, and you see the yearly totals.

While there’s no way to avoid taxes altogether, there are ways to legally reduce how much you pay. Below are a few tips and tricks for keeping more money in your pocket.

Debt can be scary, overwhelming, and isolating. When all you can afford is the minimum payment on a high-interest-rate credit card, it’s too easy to believe that you will never get out of the red.

Where can you turn for debt help? Here’s a debt elimination tip that you shouldn’t overlook: The answer might be the creditors themselves. They have the same goal in mind — helping you find the best and quickest strategies to pay down your debt.

Are you one of the many individuals who are taking charge of their careers by choosing to become self-employed?

If so, you need to take charge of your record keeping (especially for tax purposes), and that process can be a bit daunting. Here are some tips that will help you achieve the best financial outcome and ease the pressures of tax season.

Tax planning is not always simple or straightforward, but there are a variety of affordable products that can help guide you through the process and make it as efficient as possible.

These five top-rated tax-planning products can help you navigate your tax-filing journey, allowing you to reach the best outcome for your individual financial and business goals.

There’s something slightly grand and sinister about the word “landlord,” harking back to medieval days of feudal serfdom when the lord lived off the fat of the land and the toil of the peasants.

These days, though, landlords are half of a mutually beneficial relationship that can earn them a nice income.

But how do you become a landlord, and what are the most efficient ways of earning money through rental properties?

Paying off debt is hard. If you have a little extra time, energy, creativity and motivation, you should strongly consider starting a side hustle.

Most of us have some debt. But there’s good debt and there’s bad debt.

Taking out a mortgage or student loan are examples of good debt because both will generate money over time.

Credit card debt is an example of bad debt. And most of us have it.

Taxes can be a headache, so if you’re always looking for tools to make them easier, we don’t blame you. An online tax calculator might be the answer.

However, don’t wait to calculate your taxes until the night before April 15. To avoid any nasty surprises, it’s good to think about taxes year-round and make a point of regularly estimating how much you might owe. 

This is where an online tax calculator can help. This tool can save you a lot of time estimating the amount of money you might owe.

Here are four of the best free tax calculators.

“Should I buy an annuity with my 401(k) or roll my 401(k) into an IRA?” Many people struggle with the annuity vs. an IRA question as they approach retirement.

Before we delve into the pros and cons, it’s important to understand the nature of each type of retirement plan. Below are brief descriptions.

A dividend is a return on your investment paid out at intervals throughout the year, typically on a quarterly cycle, by the company in which you purchased shares.

Established, financially secure companies are more likely to issue dividends, an indication that funds are plentiful and that the company is able to both reinvest in its operations and reward shareholders.

Many investors put their money into dividend-paying stocks because they offer a significantly better return than bonds, and they are typically not high-risk investments.

When mortgage refinance rates drop, many homeowners begin to do the math to see if mortgage refinancing should be in their future. 

Refinancing for a lower interest rate can save them money. But how do you get the best mortgage refinance rates? 

This post will look at mortgage refinancing pros and cons, what to look for in a mortgage refinance lender, and what steps you can take to get the best refinance rates.

Mortgage interest rates fluctuate often, which can make it frustrating for homebuyers to snag their ideal rate at closing time. This is where a mortgage rate lock comes in.

Locking in your interest rate can save you the stress of losing a great rate while you wait to close on your mortgage. 

Generally, the benefits far outweigh the risks, but working closely with your loan officer will help you make the right moves.

Most married couples never think about filing their taxes separately. They simply check off “married filing jointly” on their tax form and move on to the hard questions.

Generally speaking, a married couple should file their taxes together. Filing jointly combines a couple’s two incomes into one amount, which, after excluding nontaxable income, becomes the couple’s adjusted gross income (AGI). This larger number may push a couple’s income into the eligibility zone of certain deductions and credits.

Nevertheless, there are certain situations when you should consider opting for “married filing separately”.

If you’re saddled with significant debt, you might wonder if refinancing your mortgage to pay off debt is a good idea.

Millions of Americans are dealing with consumer debt—estimated to have increased to $15.31 trillion in the third quarter (or Q3) of 2021, an increase of 5.4% or $772 billion.

And consumer debt is not the only kind they have to figure out how to repay. 

Despite Americans holding over $2 trillion in variable annuities, the average person knows little about how annuity retirement plans work or their pros and cons.

What is an annuity?

An annuity is a special type of life insurance that provides reliable income in retirement. You make premium payments toward the annuity during your working life or purchase the annuity with a lump sum before retirement.

Realizing that a parent or loved one needs long-term care can be a tough pill to swallow. It can be hard to watch as a once healthy and active person can no longer manage simple tasks on his or her own. It can be even tougher to have the long-term care conversation with your loved one. After all, who wants to be told that she is no longer capable of caring for herself?

Investing for the future can be daunting, and people have different priorities and financial strategies.

While some investors are attracted to taking more risks, especially when they’re young and have time to recover, many investors prefer an approach that yields peace of mind over wealth accumulation.

This approach, known as income-focused investing, emphasizes the virtue of stability and embraces a “slow and steady wins the race” ideology.

Emergencies aren’t fun and they are even worse if you don’t have an emergency fund saved. In today’s tough times, many people have either blown through their emergency fund or just weren’t able to save one. 

That doesn’t mean that emergencies won’t happen, though. So, what are you to do? 

You’ve heard credit card debt is bad and who wants to put themselves further into debt, right? While it’s not ideal, a credit card can bail you out in an emergency. 

Here’s what you need to know to keep it from putting you further into debt. 

Mortgage rates have been consistently on the rise as the Fed struggles to battle inflation. 

With a recession looming in the distance, you might ask yourself: “Is now the right time to buy a house?” 

It’s an understandable question considering how inflation has soared, house prices are high, and mortgage rates keep rising in response. No one wants to make a wrong financial decision. 

But it might not be a bad financial decision to buy a house right now. Let’s talk through mortgage rates, how they work, and whether or not today is the right time to buy a home, given the state of the market.

The USDA home loan credit score requirement is surprisingly reasonable, especially considering that it’s a 0% down mortgage.

Most lenders require a 620 minimum credit score, but if your score falls below that, you’re still in the game. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) doesn’t set a hard minimum, which means lenders can still approve you with a lower score.

Wondering how? We’ll break down the USDA credit score requirements and what you can do to increase your chances of qualifying for a mortgage.

Short on cash for your mortgage down payment? You’re not alone.

A Realtor.com study revealed that 45% of first-time homebuyers cited a lack of down payment funds as their biggest barrier to buying. It was the most-cited homebuying barrier by a wide margin. 

After all, even a small down payment on a modest home requires thousands of dollars — a tough hurdle, especially as today’s rising rent prices make it even harder to set aside money.

But you may not need to save a huge down payment all by yourself. Many loan programs offer low and no down payment options, and you may also qualify for down payment assistance*.

The decision to move yourself or a loved one into long-term care can be a difficult one, and determining how to pay for long-term care can add unnecessary stress to a phase of life that’s already full of transitions. Understanding the costs you may encounter and developing a proactive plan to afford long-term care can help ease the burdens that accompany it.

Deciding to own a home is not only a major lifestyle change but also likely one of your biggest investments.

When searching for a home, you’ll want to consider your comfort on many levels – including what you can reasonably afford.

We’ve provided a guide to the basic factors that impact how much home you can afford, including details about your personal finances and the costs of a mortgage.

If you’re considering purchasing a new home, you’ve likely been paying attention to mortgage rates. 

Unless a homebuyer can make a cash offer to buy a home, mortgage rates can make a big difference toward when they buy and what kind of home loan product they use.

The housing market has been quite volatile over the last couple of years. Mortgage rates had incredible lows at the beginning of the pandemic, but, as expected, rate increases came about this year.

When you sign a purchase contract, you’re signing a legally binding agreement. Most of the time you also put down earnest money. If you back out of the contract without any reason that’s legally backed, you lose your earnest money, which could be thousands of dollars.

Since buying a home is one of the largest purchases you’ll make, you want to enter the contract carefully. You sign a contract that doesn’t work in your favor, but you also don’t want to have so many contingencies that a seller won’t accept your bid.

One of the most popular contingencies you can add to a purchase contract is a financing contingency. Understanding what it is and how it works is important.

The level of medical debt in America is shockingly high.

According to Debt.org, America’s debt-help organization, the average cost to an individual to stay in a hospital is $3,949 per day. And the average healthcare consumer pays more than $10,000 per year. As a nation, we spent $3.5 trillion in 2017 for health care.

The numbers paint a bleak picture. Americans pay more for health care than anyone in the world, and the impact of facing extreme medical debt can be financially devastating for individuals and families.

Yet despite what the numbers say, there are ways to lessen the financial burden of individual or family health care. Find out how in this guide to managing medical debt.

Whether you are deciding to have a child after years of planning or your new bundle of joy is an unexpected addition, having kids is expensive. From diapers and childcare to braces and college, parents sign themselves up for a continuous barrage of purchases, both large and small. Child-related expenses can add up on their own, but parents often have their own unrelated financial situations to consider. Budgeting and financial planning are critical for new or expecting parents, and these tips can help you start parenthood on firm financial footing.

Virtually everyone would choose to make more money if given the opportunity, but choices that impact your lifetime income potential are rarely that clear-cut. A variety of factors influence the amount of money a person makes, and the choices they make throughout their lifetime help to dictate their ability to earn money. Taking a hard look at your lifetime income potential can help you make more money in the long term, allowing you to financially support your lifestyle and retire in comfort.

If you’re sadly looking at your portfolio and wondering what happened, you aren’t alone. Inflation has hurt a lot of portfolios because businesses are struggling to stay afloat. The higher the costs get, the harder it is for companies to be profitable, which hurts stock prices. 

If you’re only invested in the stock market, you could be doing yourself a disservice. During high inflationary times like now, it’s best to diversify your portfolio and the best way to do it is by investing in real estate. 

As people get older, many must begin to rely more upon their children for care and support. Even the most independent retirees often chat with their kids to discuss finances, medical concerns, and housing plans for their golden years. Some people wait until they experience an accident or health scare to share their plans with loved ones, while others put off these conversations until it is too late.

People with aging parents (or retirees with adult children) should be proactive about discussing these difficult topics and life decisions. If you are an adult with aging parents, consider sitting down with them to discuss retirement planning, estate planning, and their wishes regarding housing and end-of-life care. 

Think back to the last time you went to a doctor’s office or medical facility. You likely were asked to name an emergency contact, and you probably didn’t hesitate to write down the name of your significant other, a family member, or a friend. 

It makes sense to have someone medical personnel can get in touch with if something happens to you. After all, this can ensure your well-being. 

But what about your financial well-being? If your financial institutions and advisors asked you to name a trusted contact, would you be willing to provide the name of someone they could reach out to if they were concerned about activity in your account and couldn’t reach you?

You’ve got a lot of decisions to make when you buy a home: property type, city, neighborhood, square footage, amount of yard space.

But choosing a mortgage lender is almost as important as choosing your home, especially in today’s real estate market. The right lender can help you gain a competitive edge over other buyers and get into the home you want.

An overwhelming majority of older adults want to remain in their homes as they age. A survey by AARP found that 77% of adults 50 and older want to age in place. Other surveys have found that the percentage is even higher—nearly 90%.

It’s one thing to want to age in place. It’s another thing altogether to actually be able to make it work. That’s because there are several financial factors that can jeopardize adults’ ability to remain in their homes as long as possible. In fact, without adequate financial security and safeguards, living independently at home isn’t possible.

It’s important to understand the financial risks that can make it difficult to age in place and to take steps to reduce those risks.

It’s a seller’s market out there. 

An emergency fund—money dedicated to unexpected expenses—should be part of every household budget. When things go south, you won’t have to go into debt to fix them. While the fund might not be enough to completely cover truly serious emergencies, it will at least reduce the amount you have to finance.

During your working years, an emergency fund is a big help. During retirement, it’s crucial to your budget. After all, you’re living on a fixed income. You can’t take on a little overtime to help pay for that transmission repair.

Here are six reasons why an emergency fund is essential.

One of the key needs that people have is to be autonomous. In other words, it’s human nature to want to feel independent and in control. 

For those near or in retirement, financial independence is especially important. You need to have the resources to live comfortably and securely without a regular paycheck. You also need to protect those resources. 

That requires putting systems and safeguards in place. To remain financially independent and in control, tackle these tasks sooner rather than later.

Impulse buys happen to all of us. You’re in a store or on a shopping website, and you see something you really want to buy. It’s a new release of software you own, an expensive pair of shoes marked down to half price, or a miter saw that will work way better than the 15-year-old one you currently own.

You know you want it. Do you need it, though? You’ve already pledged to save money for an emergency fund. This purchase will make a dent in that fund.

When you retire, do you plan on doing one or more of the following?

• Travel the world and explore exotic locales
• Spoil your grandchildren
• Relax in your beach house or mountain cabin
• Live comfortably until you pass away

Internally, we all have big dreams for that day when we finally step down from our job and step into a life of leisure in our golden years.

f you’re a veteran, active duty service member, or surviving spouse, you have specific mortgage loan options available to you.

VA loans are offered through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. 

They can be used to build or purchase a home, refinance a mortgage, or make repairs. And they offer numerous benefits to borrowers.

Learn more about the VA loan types available to you, the benefits, and how to qualify.

If you have a credit card, chances are you’ve gotten a letter or email encouraging you to check your FICO credit score. 

But what is this score, and where does it come from?

Depending on the types of credit you have, you likely have multiple FICO scores. 

Mortgage lenders check these scores to evaluate your creditworthiness when you are looking to buy a home or refinance.

Learn why mortgage lenders look at your credit scores, how they use them, and which scores your lender may use when applying for a mortgage or refinancing.

So you’ve decided to put away some savings. Great choice. It’s never too soon to start.

A lot of Americans don’t have any savings, and many don’t have enough to last them through their retirement years, so you’re smart to make this decision.

But where should you put the money? Here’s how you can make good choices.

Even novice investors know that the key to investing is ensuring you’re not putting all your eggs in one basket.

Diversifying your portfolio allows you to hold a mix of low-risk, stable ventures alongside higher-risk investments that could produce significantly larger returns.

For those new to investing, mutual funds are an excellent place to start.

If you’ve been hacked or your identity stolen, you know how vulnerable it can feel and how scary. Trying to make sense of it all and get your account straightened out can months or longer depending on how bad it is.

Even if you haven’t had the misfortune of experiencing identity theft, it can still be scary knowing your information could be out there on the dark web or in the hands of a hacker and you might not even know it.

Retiring is an exciting time in your life, but it can also be the scariest. Suddenly you are without an income and must be self-sufficient. Getting yourself to that point is the key to success. You must plan carefully and know what you need before you retire. 

Here are the tops dos and don’ts of retirement to help you make the most of your golden years. 

Primary residences make up a quarter of all assets held by households in America and continue to be the biggest asset for homeowners. 

Whether you intend to build equity or get top dollar when you sell, repairs and smart improvements can protect your asset and even increase home value. 

Your credit score is one of the most important factors in your personal finance life. A bad credit score can make it impossible to get approved for a loan, get good insurance rates, or even get a job sometimes.

Knowing what can hurt your credit score can help you keep your credit score in good standing. 

Becoming a first-time homebuyer can be exciting and overwhelming. While the first step in purchasing your new home is obtaining a mortgage, you will also need to decide on the mortgage type you want. You may have heard that an FHA mortgage loan is a great option.

But you may be wondering, “What is an FHA loan, and is it the right loan for a first-time homebuyer?” For most, an FHA loan is appealing because it can be easier to qualify for than a conventional loan. It has many advantages that are worth learning about before deciding to make such a large financial commitment. 

Before buying an investment property, you want to make sure you’ll make money off it. One way real estate investors evaluate investment profitability is by calculating return on investment, or ROI, which measures cash return expressed as a percentage of total investment cost on an annual basis.

You can calculate ROI yourself using a simple formula, or you can use a real estate investment return calculator.

Smart investors know that investing in real estate is what the cool kids do. If you’re careful about the properties you buy, it can be a venture with a tremendous upside and a comparatively low downside.

First, you should know that real estate is an investment that diversifies portfolios, pays off its own debt, and produces predictable and stable cash returns, even when you’re sound asleep.

And once you generate enough profit, you can use your returns to buy more properties. In other words, your houses can buy you more houses. It’s the snowball effect of snowball effects.

However, to find success as a real estate investor, you’ll need to know how to pick the good apples from the bushel.

NAIFA-Los Angeles members have worked with local and state elected representatives to get official recognition of September as Life Insurance Awareness Month (LIAM). The City of Los Angeles, County of Los Angeles, and California State Senate have all issued resolutions or certificates recognizing NAIFA and LIAM.

Buy! Sell! Bull! Bear!

It’s no wonder people are spooked by the frequent fluctuations of the stock market. Financial news websites and TV channels frequently dramatize the highs and lows of the financial world.

So why would you want to put your money into a marketplace that is often compared to the latest hair-raising roller-coaster ride?

Because there’s a better solution than fretting over each day’s gains and losses. Instead, consider taking a long-term approach to investment, which is a proven method of accumulating wealth and ensuring your financial future.

Did you know? Most states require voters to register 2-4 weeks before election day. Don't wait until the last minute — find your state's registration deadline with NAIFA's Get Out the Vote. Find links to register to vote as well as information on the candidates and ballot measures you'll be voting on.

Everyone needs an emergency fund to use should they experience the unexpected. Job loss, falling ill, or having other major financial catastrophes can wreak havoc on your finances. When you have an emergency fund set aside, though, you can focus on overcoming the emergency and not stress about how you’ll pay your bills. 

But is there such a thing as having too much money saved for an emergency? 

There could be. Saving too much for the wrong reason can cause you to feel it in other areas. Here’s what you should know.

Mortgage interest rates play a large role in how much mortgages cost, and they can also affect your cash flow.

Understanding real estate investment mortgage rates can help you find properties you can afford and profit from, as well as organize your finances before you head into a deal.

Life insurance is a crucial part of any solid financial plan, but 41% of Americans say they don’t have sufficient life insurance coverage. That's why NAIFA partner Life Happens created Life Insurance Awareness Month (LIAM) and why NAIFA strongly supports efforts to promote the benefits of life insurance during September and all year long. For agents and advisors, LIAM is the perfect time to meet with your clients to make sure their life insurance coverage meets their needs. 

This year's LIAM spokesperson is Roselyn Sánchez, actress, producer, proud Puerto Rican, and mother. She is featured on many of the LIAM promotional materials available from Life Happens.

"Let's educate people about the importance of life insurance so they can make that easy decision for their family," Sánchez says.

When you land your first job, it's important to learn how to manage your income. Now is the perfect time to establish healthy spending and saving habits. Read on for tips to manage your finances with your new paycheck.

Recessions are never easy. Whether you're becoming aware now or already following the news of a possible economic crisis, it's good to have a mitigation plan for when it happens. Learn how to prepare your finances so they can carry you through a recession and in the aftermath with these tips. 

Each year, Forbes and SHOOK Research select the industry's premier financial security professionals. The Forbes Top Financial Security Professionals list aims to answer the question: “Would we recommend these professionals to a family member or a friend?”

Rather than focusing on performance and profits, Forbes selects candidates based on quantitative factors (including production, assets under management (AUM), and client-related trends and data) and qualitative factors (including adherence to best practices, use of team and team dynamics, and level of community involvement).

This year's Top Financial Security Professionals list includes 27 NAIFA members:

Everyone, regardless of their income, gets antsy when there's a recession, depression, or even a slight downturn in the market. The uncertainty can cause a lot of anxiety about what's to come. It can make people put life plans on hold, start to look for other employment, or reassess how they're managing their money. Even though no one can predict how long or impactful a recession will be, there are some things you can do to cope and manage during a stressful time.

Recessions affect every part of life. The cost of goods and services goes up, borrowing money gets more expensive, and businesses suffer. During a recession, you may need to adjust your spending habits to stay financially secure. Read on for tips to mindfully manage your finances during periods of economic uncertainty.

If you’re in the market for life insurance, you have many options, but the most common choice is term life insurance. 

It’s often the least expensive policy and it’s the easiest to get. It’s a temporary policy so there’s a lot you must understand about how it works. Here’s what you must know about it. 

Do you know what laws have passed in your state legislature this year? Find out with NAIFA's Get Out the Vote! With just a few clicks, you can find a full list of the bills your state congress and the U.S. Congress considered this year. Search by keyword, bill sponsors, bill status, and more to find the legislation that affects you every day. Whether you want a quick summary or the full text of a bill, you can find everything you're looking for here.

Life insurance is vital to protect your loved ones financially when you die. While no one likes to think of the worst happening, planning is essential because life is unpredictable.

Whole life insurance is a form of permanent life insurance that protects your beneficiaries for your entire life. It doesn’t expire.

Here’s what you must consider when deciding if whole life insurance is right for you.

National Financial Awareness Day is the perfect time to take stock of your finances. Do you keep a monthly budget? Only 32% of American families do and half of American households live paycheck to paycheck.

Managing finances is one of the most important—and least understood—skills. It may seem daunting, but just like any other skill, it can be learned if you put in the work. Financial literacy is more than just knowing how to save money—it's also knowing what to do with it. 

This year, celebrate National Financial Awareness Day by taking the first steps toward financial literacy.

Whether it’s raising your own children or caring for aging parents, being a family caregiver is fraught with the fulfillment that comes at a price: stress and strain.

It’s becoming more common to be caught somewhere in the middle — being a parent to one’s own children while simultaneously caring for elderly parents. Known as the “sandwich generation,” this unique group of middle-aged adults can find themselves in a pickle.

To help navigate that feeling of being sandwiched, chew on these five ideas to help you manage the double dose of stress.

Do you know how to register to vote? What are your state and local laws around voting early or by mail? Who's on your ballot?

A majority of consumers today are suffering from the effects of inflation. We’re seeing inflationary rates that are akin to what happened in the 80s, so we’re talking decades ago. At the rate inflation is increasing lately, most people can’t afford what they’re used to and it’s causing financial strain on families everywhere. 

Many people have specific financial goals (e.g., filling a rainy-day fund, buying a house, paying down debt, or starting to invest), and most of these goals involve saving money. If you are struggling to put money away for your financial plans, reducing your spending may be necessary. Consider these tips to help you cut expenses and build your savings to facilitate your future financial plans.

Do you know what issues are on your ballot this November? If you live in Missouri, Arizona, or Iowa, there are tightly-contested primary races in your state.

Do you want to get on a budget but don’t know how? You look at your income and expenses and your head just spins. How do you know where to budget and how?

If you’re in an accident and you aren’t at fault, generally the damages are the other driver’s responsibility. But what happens when that person doesn’t have insurance? Even though it’s the law, many people still drive without insurance or without enough insurance to cover the damages. As much as 13% of drivers are uninsured.

Do you know who your legislators are? Fewer than half of Americans do. That's why we created NAIFA's Get Out the Vote. You can find information about your local, state, and federal elected officials, including how to contact them and tips for writing to and meeting with them. Legislators want to hear from their constituents and your input directly impacts their actions!

Money can be a big challenge for relationships, especially for couples on a budget with limited income or a lot of debt. Overwhelming debt, lack of communication, and financial secrets can lead to arguments, guilt, finger-pointing, and resentment. Here are the steps to help.

Understanding what a budget is, what it can do, and how to build one together can help couples address problems in a healthy, positive way as they work toward mutual financial goals.

A budget is simply a roadmap for dividing household income into expenses (including mortgage, groceries, and discretionary spending). Building a budget together means agreeing on the roadmap and helping each other stick to it.

What’s your money story?  

NAIFA member Win Havir, CPCU, CLF, LUTCF, LACP, describes a “money story” as how we conceptualize and relate to money and finances in a new article in California Broker magazine. Havir grew up in East Los Angeles as the child of a Chinese immigrant. When she was a child, her father would often say “We don’t have any money.” This mantra affected her developing inner narrative. “I was embarrassed and didn’t understand why we stood in line to get huge blocks of orange cheese, powdered milk, and a loaf of white bread,” she says. As she grew older, she realized that this mindset helped her be empathetic and assist others in achieving financial literacy.  

Now, Havir works to promote financial literacy in underserved populations. She emphasizes the importance of serving diverse populations as well as recruiting diverse talent into the insurance and financial services industry. 

Are you looking for a new career? A career in insurance and financial services could be the best decision you can make for your future. As an insurance agent or financial advisor, you can work with a variety of clients—individuals, families, small businesses, or large corporations—to find financial solutions that meet their needs.

Let's look at some of the benefits of a career in insurance and financial services and the perks that come with it.

Do you know when your next local and state elections are?

Most Americans know that presidential elections are held every four years in November, but do you know when your state and local elections are? If you live in one of 17 states—including Minnesota, Florida, and Vermont—you have an election coming up next month!

Find your election dates, state voter information, and much more with NAIFA's Get Out the Vote. This easy-to-navigate site is your one-stop shop for voting information. Check out everything GOTV has to offer today!

Has it been a few years since your last civics class? Don't worry—NAIFA's Get Out the Vote is the resource for everything you need to know about voting, legislation, and your elected officials.

The millennial generation has grown up in an era dominated by rapid changes in the economy. In recent decades, the responsibility of saving and investing has been largely delegated to individuals, as opposed to previous generations where this was mainly the role of governments and employers. Improved standards of living have also translated to increased life expectancies among millennials. The implication of this is that young people today have to make sound financial decisions to achieve financial security in retirement.

When considering applying for Medicare, you need to know what your options are. The Improving Medicare Coverage Act has made distinct changes to the lives of Americans, leading to improved health benefits. Many Americans over the age of 60 live with little or no medical insurance, making it difficult for them to have access to proper medical care.

There are several groups of people who are eligible for the Medicare program. The program caters to persons aged 65 and above, young people with some disabilities, and persons suffering from end-stage renal failure. Elderly persons above the age of 65 can receive Medicare under two different plans: Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (Medicare insurance).

The elderly in our communities are all prone to getting scammed at some point. Many perpetrators of such exploitations take advantage of the fact that seniors are old, and hence an easy target. A number of these con artists use technology to serve their purposes since most elderly people are not tech-savvy. They may use calls and emails or pose as salesmen to achieve their goal of getting financial access to the unknowing elderly person.

The risk is imminent, and we have to remain vigilant to protect our elders from these vile perpetrators. To that end, we have come up with 4 red flags that you should look into when you suspect foul play.

This month is Bank Account Bonus Month! If you haven't started a bank account, this is the month to do so.

You need car insurance – it’s the law, but as long as you have the minimum coverage required in your state, the rest of the decisions are up to you, including the amount of your deductible.

Knowing how to choose your deductible is important. It’s the amount of money you must pay if you file a claim. It’s not an optional payment, so knowing how to choose yours wisely is important.

Many people have very strong opinions on reverse mortgage loans. Frequently, those opinions are based on misconceptions about what reverse mortgages are and how they work. One such fallacy that continues to live on is that reverse mortgages are just a loan of last resort—something that’s only for cash-strapped homeowners to utilize when all other viable solutions have been exhausted. 

In a recent New York Times article titled Reverse Mortgages Are No Longer Just for Homeowners Short on Cash, the author writes: “It was conventional wisdom that a reverse mortgage was a last-resort option for the oldest homeowners who desperately needed cash. But a growing number of researchers say these loans could be a good option for people earlier in their retirement […] who are not needy at all.”

Are you expecting a tax refund this year? What if instead of spending the money before you even have it in hand you use it to improve your credit?

If you have poor, fair, or even average credit, your credit score could use a boost and your tax refund could be the perfect way to make it happen.

Here’s how to use your tax refund to improve your credit score.

Inflation is the increase in the prices of goods and services over time. The current inflation rate is 8.6%. When the inflation rate is high, you'll spend more money on buying goods and services. Therefore, inflation leads to an increase in the cost of living.

Higher interest rates can mean more money in your savings, but it can also have a dramatic impact on your cost of living. Keep reading to learn the basics of inflation and how it affects you.

Life can be unpredictable and challenges will arise. We cannot always control our circumstances, but we can control our perspective and what we focus on. Choosing to see the good in bad or hard situations is what will make the ultimate difference in the long run. The CPT (Care Planning Team), is an important resource regarding this. They help individuals get back on track in their lives and continue that joy perspective.

Long-term growth requires long-term planning. Reduction in taxes, fewer fees, more savings, and exponential growth, are all factors of long-term planning. A long-term care funding plan was also created which increases success in these areas and is an option for those wanting to be smarter with their finances.

Proper preparation = better cash flow. Without thorough forethought and intention put into place for the future, cash flow is bound to be a concern. This excerpt dives into the specifics of what a lack of preparation results in and the cash flow measures that should be taken to prevent them.

From emergency funds to retirement accounts and everything in between, it can feel impossible to save enough money each month. Even if you make more than enough money to make ends meet, you might wonder if you’re ever saving enough. While there’s no cut and dry answer as to how much you must save each month, we’ve created a guide to help you determine what’s right for you.

One of the most overlooked threats to retirement is when people need to either limit their earning potential in the workforce due to caregiving demands (think not taking a promotion or limiting the ability to travel), or they leave the labor force altogether because the demands of caregiving are so great. This excerpt explores the impact that leaving/diminished workforce engagement has on future retirement planning.

What is an annuity?

An annuity is a financial product that provides regular and guaranteed payments to an individual, typically for a period of time after retirement. Annuities are often used as a retirement planning tool, as they can provide a guaranteed stream of income for life. This can be especially helpful for those worried about outliving their savings. 

We all want to be financially free, right? Living under the burden of bills, saving, and trying to figure life out feels impossible and overwhelming at times. What if we told you that achieving financial freedom is within your reach – you just have to know the do’s and don’ts of handling your personal finances. 

Here’s what you should know. 

When you buy a home, the lender will require an appraisal. It sounds scary and like it could stop you from getting the loan you need or the home you want. While an appraisal can be a stumbling block when you’re trying to buy a home, it’s there to protect you and the lender. Understanding the appraisal, how it works, and what your options are if the appraisal doesn’t come in high enough is important.

You could set as many financial goals as you want, but without the right mindset, they are nearly impossible to reach. How you think about money—consciously and subconsciously—can affect your decisions, how you handle money, and how much money you have overall. The good news is that you can change your money mindset at any time and turn your personal financial situation around. 

What Is Your Money Mindset? 

Your money mindset is any thoughts or feelings you have about money. For example, if you tell yourself, "I’ll never make enough money to retire early", then guess what? You won’t. 

You are starting your career, and you know you should save some of your income. Here are some essentials to saving and helping secure your future.

Make a Budget

One of the biggest tools to help you save money is a budget. A budget helps you plan where you want your money to go. If you have never made a budget before, you can start by keeping track of all your expenses for a month. At the end of the month, examine how you are spending your money and determine how you can spend it more wisely. If you are trying to save as much money as you can, you should cut down on your expenses as much as reasonably possible. You can still live well while not spending as much.

A career in financial services may seem like a daunting venture, but there are many benefits to working at a large corporation. This article explores how a finance career can help you build your future and chart your course for success.

Networking opportunities

The financial services industry is growing, highly innovative, and competitive. Capitalizing on opportunities and adding value to clients are the hallmarks of success in the financial services business. And network professionals are essential in this endeavor. They can help you gain access to the right contacts, improve your image and reputation among senior executives, and get a lot of exposure for your company and your brand. 

One of the most overlooked threats to retirement is when people need to either limit their earning potential in the workforce due to caregiving demands (think not taking a promotion or limiting the ability to travel), or they leave the labor force altogether because the demands of caregiving are so great. This excerpt explores the impact that leaving/diminished workforce engagement has on future retirement planning.

Finances for Your Aging Parents: What to Expect and How to Prepare

It's not always easy to think about your parents getting older and more dependent on you. When it comes to their finances, what do you need to know? What are the most important things for aging parents to consider when it comes to their finances? 

This article will cover what you need to know about planning for your elderly parent's financial needs in retirement so that they can maintain some level of independence. 

Due to shifts in the job market, it's now easier than ever to become an independent contractor in almost any field. Not just for plumbers and builders, even wait staff can become independent contractors if they know how to obtain gigs and promote their services online. Let's take a good look at the pros and cons of becoming an independent contractor.

More and more organizations are moving to a remote workforce permanently. While this seems a straightforward thing, it comes with various challenges. If you plan to start working remotely, here are the challenges your team will face and the solutions to help you overcome them. 

Challenges of Remote Working

Managing Projects 

When your team works remotely, they will have challenges managing projects and meeting deadlines. The main issue is communication breakdown, where the managers will not communicate effectively with team members to ensure effective collaboration during projects. 

"A lack of planning has immediate consequences and possibly consequences that will reach 20 years into the future," says Golden in her new book, "How Not to Tear Your Family Apart". Golden has been bringing the concept to both financial advisors and consumers that we need to get the conversation started far sooner than anyone expects so that dire consequences do not occur that possibly impacts generations to come.

Do you ever worry about what will happen if something happens to you? Not the fear that grips you when you are alone in your home at night, but the stress and anxiety associated with trying to provide for your family, pay off debt, or maintain your lifestyle. This is where investing in life insurance can have various benefits.

No matter how young or old you are, everyone should be thinking about retirement. We know it’s hard when you’re in your 20s or 30s because 59 ½ – 65 years old seems so far off, but it will be here before you know it.

The earlier you save for retirement, the more money you’ll have to enjoy your golden years. Plus, when you save early, you give your money more time to grow, which is like passive income – you don’t have to work for it, yet you grow your retirement account fast.

Understanding how retirement funds work, how to save for retirement, and the tax consequences of each account is important.

New research by LIMRA and Life Happens shows two significant trends: life insurance is key to financial security and gender gaps extend to life insurance coverage.

Financial Security with Life Insurance

Financial insecurity affects all age groups, but one thing is clear: having life insurance increases Americans' feeling of financial security. 68% of life insurance owners feel financially secure compared with 47% of non-owners, and those who feel most secure have coverage both through their employer and a separate individual policy. The study also showed that the COVID-19 pandemic had increased awareness of the need for life insurance, with 31% of those surveyed saying they are more likely to buy life insurance in 2022.  

Among your many loan options are FHA loans. They are a common choice for borrowers that don’t qualify for conventional (traditional) financing.

FHA loans have a bad reputation, but they are one of the most flexible and easy-to-use programs for first-time homebuyers and subsequent homebuyers.

Each year, many Americans struggle to manage their medical expenses. Routine healthcare procedures can be expensive enough, but there are even more significant costs associated with emergency medical care, chronic illness management, and childbirth. Too many Americans are finding themselves drowning in the medical debt they’ve accrued from essential treatment and medication, with or without health insurance. Three major mistakes can cause patients to rack up more significant medical debt than is necessary, but fortunately, these strategies can help.

Getting accepted to an academic program can be one of the most exciting events in a student’s academic career. However, this excitement is often followed by panic. Many students and their families become overwhelmed by applying for financial aid, taking out loans, and cutting costs to afford a college education. Student debt is something that can plague individuals and their families long after graduation, but doing extensive research before borrowing can help. Here are a few things that borrowers should know about student debt before they sign on the dotted line.

Traditional approaches to eliminating debt tend to create a black-and-white view of money matters—reduce spending so you can increase debt payments.

It may seem counterintuitive, but investing while you’re managing and paying off loans can help you eliminate debt. How? By increasing the earnings you have available to make payments.

If you’re in the market for a car, you have the option to buy or lease it if you aren’t paying cash outright for the car. 

Many people are opposed to leasing and will only buy cars and vice versa, but how do you know which one is right for you.

Here’s everything you must know about the difference between buying and leasing a car.

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), we are stressed out.

The latest Stress in America report from the APA, published in 2018, found that over half of millennials (born between 1980 and 1994) and members of Generation Z (born between 1995 and 2015) feel stressed out, with just under half of baby boomers and older adults feeling the same.

Money, work, and health concerns are America’s main stressors, and mental health crises are prevalent outcomes of high stress.

The report clearly states one thing—stress is a certainty, and you’re going to get your turn with it sooner or later. Here’s a list of 10 things to avoid when stress rears its ugly head.

There are tons of online tax tools. Why go through the trouble of finding and hiring a tax planner?

Because a tax planner could save you millions over your lifetime, along with other benefits. Here’s what you need to know about tax pros.

What is a tax planner?

They are accounting professionals — certified public accountants (CPAs) or tax attorneys — who work with clients over a long period. A tax planner’s primary goal is to ensure that the client is prepared for the next filing season and pays the minimum taxes legally possible.

Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have only been around for about 25 years.

Nevertheless, they can be a productive part of a diversified portfolio, and they have certain distinct advantages over other types of funds and/or traded assets.

What are they?

ETFs are grouped collections of securities. Like a mutual fund, an ETF pools money from a number of investors into a single fund that purchases a diversified selection of bonds, equities, and other assets with a certain investment goal in mind (income or speculation, for example).

You know that you can expect to be at an increased risk of health issues as you age. However, what you might not realize is that aging puts you at a greater risk of another issue: financial exploitation. 

In fact, the rate at which adults over the age of 60 can expect to experience financial exploitation—1 in 20—is higher than the incidence of many age-related diseases, according to research published in The Journals of Gerontology. And that’s likely an underestimate of the problem because, according to the report, “many older adults are unaware or unwilling to report exploitation.” 

If you own a home and have paid your mortgage down a bit, you may have some equity in your home. Equity is the difference between your home’s value and the outstanding mortgage. In other words, it’s your investment in the property. 

At first glance, it may feel like your equity is tied up in your home since homes aren’t liquid. You probably think you have to move to get the difference between your home’s value and your mortgage. But there are ways to get your equity out while allowing you to stay in the home. 

Here’s what you must know.

You hear credit cards are bad so you don’t use them, right? What if we told you they could be good when used in the right context? What if you could build an even better credit score if you had reward credit cards as a personal finance tool? 

It’s true, reward credit cards can be a great way to build and keep a good credit score. Even better, they pay you rewards just for spending money. But you have to know how to find the right card and how to use them right so you don’t get in over your head in debt.

It takes credit to build credit, but if no one will give you credit without a credit score, what do you do?

It’s not as hard as you think to build credit from scratch. Before we show you how to build credit, though, we’ll explain what credit is and why it’s important. 

What is a credit report?

Your credit report is a log of your financial behavior, home addresses, and employers. It’s a log for lenders to use to determine if you’re a good or risky borrower.

Employee benefits are an important part of your compensation package. Benefits range from paid time off (PTO) to health insurance to retirement and 401(k) plans. Most employer health plans are more comprehensive than what you can buy privately, have lower deductibles, and are much cheaper. Understanding benefits can help you accurately assess a compensation package and ensure that you're not leaving money on the table.

Let's look at some common employee benefits.

Medicare is a government program created to provide healthcare coverage for people who are 65 or older, certain younger people with disabilities, and those on Social Security. It covers hospital stays, doctor visits, lab tests, eye exams, and more.

Medicare has many options for beneficiaries, including traditional Medicare (Parts A & B), which is full-service coverage but only includes items that are medically necessary or preventive in nature; a Prescription Drug Plan (Part D), which provides prescription drug coverage; and an Advantage plan or Part C that combines both Parts A &B plus supplemental medical insurance.

What's your most important financial asset? What's the best way to grow your money tax-free? NAIFA President Larry Holzberg answers these questions and more with Neil Himmelstein on the podcast "The Main Street Code for Financial Success".

Holzberg and Himmelstein discuss the importance of working with a financial advisor and having the right kind of insurance to protect your assets and your family. “[Life Insurance] allows people to maintain their lifestyle, reach their goals, and do the most important thing—love their family,” says Holzberg.

Natural disasters such as hurricanes, wildfires, floods, tornadoes, and earthquakes can paralyze your finances when they strike. Unfortunately, many people fail to prepare financially and are caught unaware when natural disasters hit.

Here are two ways to prepare financially in the event of a natural disaster.

Are you a young professional planning for your financial future? You may be contemplating how to clear your student loan debt and save more for your retirement. Discipline and commitment will never go wrong when it comes to financial decisions, but having a financial plan is key. Read on for three reliable tips on how you can save and pay back your student loans.

No one particularly wants to live on a tight budget, but there are times when we need to rein in our spending and pay better attention to where the money is going.

But, you can still live well on a tight budget. There are ways to live your best life while spending less.

NAIFA supports teen mental health. Financial security begins with a healthy relationship with money, which starts with a healthy relationship with oneself.

On Tuesday, April 12, 2022, Families for Depression Awareness will present the webinar "Creating Healthy Tech and Media Habits with Your Teen". Host Meredith Gansner, M.D., will discuss how technology can affect teen mental health and how parents and adults can help. All are welcome to attend: parents, guardians, family members, youth workers, and any other adult with a teen in their life.

Having no heirs doesn’t absolve you from the need for proper estate planning.

The most avoidable problem is what happens to your wealth if you die without making a will (or dying intestate). When this happens, the state court system decides how to handle your money and belongings.

Therefore, whether you have no heirs or a hundred, the most important element of estate planning remains unchanged: Make a plan. Even a flawed plan is better than none, so consider tackling this task as soon as possible.

If you’re looking to buy a new car, you will likely need to finance it unless you can pay for it in all cash. Fortunately, there are many options to finance a car, but understanding your options and how they work before you look for a loan is important.

A big part of why we want to make (or save) money in the first place is to enjoy it. But it’s hard to save for concert tickets, travel, and other bigger purchases when all your money disappears on an average Friday night.

The good news? A small budget doesn’t mean you’re forever confined to your home alone. There are plenty of ways to entertain yourself with little to no spending.

When most people think of the gig economy, they immediately think of the popular ridesharing apps, food delivery services, and grocery delivery options that have become ubiquitous in today’s world. However, with significant legal questions over large ridesharing companies’ classification of drivers as non-employees, the future of some large players in the industry is starting to seem a bit uncertain. The gig economy is a lifeline for many workers trying to provide for their families during the COVID-19 pandemic, and there are a few ways for individuals to expand their view of the industry beyond the most popular app-based options.

According to the National Association of Homebuilders, a majority of Americans (around 75 percent) believe that owning a home is the best way to make a solid investment in their future, and so it is a goal that many people strive towards.

Whether you’ve saved for years and are considering buying a home, or you have already become a homeowner and are planning your financial future from here, you must consider the hidden costs of home ownership.

In this article, we’ll talk about those costs and what to consider, no matter what stage of the home-buying process you are in.

Buying a home is a significant step. With so much at stake, both financially and emotionally, you must be prepared for the process of fitting the house into your life — as well as fitting your life into the house.

If you need a mortgage to buy a home, take the task of finding a mortgage as seriously as any other task related to homeownership. The mortgage process might seem intimidating, but you can boil it down into five categories:

If you developed a disability or chronic condition that required long-term care, how would you pay for that care? Would you expect health insurance or Medicare to pay for it? 

Unfortunately, you can’t count on either of those options to pay for ongoing care that you might need. Medicaid might cover the cost of long-term care services if you have very limited income or assets. Otherwise, if you need professional care at home, in an assisted living facility, or in a nursing home, you’ll have to pay for it. 

No matter how carefree we are in our youth, as we start to approach retirement age, we begin to value reliability and predictability — in our portfolios as well as our Wi-Fi connections.

It’s also when we begin to prioritize income generation over capital growth. Fortunately, income-focused doesn’t have to mean low return, and a fixed-income portfolio might be just the ticket for a financially carefree retirement.

Planning your estate can easily feel overwhelming at times. Choosing the right attorney to help you can make a world of difference in easing your stress as you plan ahead.

Join us for a special webinar on Thursday, February 3, 2022, presented by NAIFA-CT's Richard Terhune, a loyal NAIFA member since 2008. The event will feature two real-life stories of the power of life insurance on the lives of families across the country.

Terhune and his client, Sara Mathews Dixon, were selected as recipients of the Life Happens' Real Life Stories program. When Sara's husband died unexpectedly, his life insurance policy protected her and their three children from financial hardship.

Don't miss this impactful and inspiring webinar on February 3, 2022, at 2 pm eastern.

Even just a little tax planning can help save you money when tax time comes. Among other things, tax planning can help you and your accountant or tax advisor evaluate your financial situation in light of the current tax laws.

Below are some basic ideas and strategies you and your tax advisor might use to manage your tax burden.

Do you know how to start building a powerful investment portfolio?

An investment portfolio is simply a rundown of your assets — stocks, bonds, real estate, mutual funds, 401(k) retirement account, savings, money market accounts, certificates of deposit (CDs), cryptocurrency, employee stock options, and futures.

Now let’s talk about how to build a strong one.

We know that millennials are facing staggering economic challenges. With the high cost of living and low wages, money management can be challenging. That's why it's essential to work with a financial advisor - one who understands your needs and can make sure you're getting the best information for your unique financial situation.

Ah, that ever-elusive work-life balance.

We all know about it, we all crave it, but maybe we don’t exactly know how to achieve it.

Well, there’s no time like the present to take control of your personal happiness—it will translate into a happier, healthier work environment, which is the key to a healthier home life, which will make you a better worker, and so on. It’s a cycle that can make or break your mental health.

While some professionals are returning to their daily grind at the office, many Americans are continuing to work from home. Although focusing on work can be a challenge amid kids, pets, and other distractions, many workers are discovering and embracing the financial benefits offered by remote jobs. Here are some of the ways that remote workers can save money.

As Americans face the harsh realities of the COVID-19 pandemic, more and more people are turning to the gig economy for income. While most people think of delivery and ridesharing services as the only job opportunities on offer, there are plenty of other careers that are part of the gig economy. Freelancers, construction workers, web designers, and hourly workers in a variety of positions are also included in this category. If you are thinking about turning towards jobs in the gig economy to supplement your income, there are a few things you should know.

You’re young. You’ve got time on your side. Conventional wisdom may say: Invest heavily in stocks. You’ve got many years ahead to ride out any downturns.

“Tax planning” is a phrase many people associate with large corporations, the rich and powerful, or super-humanly organized accountant types.

Being in debt is stressful, especially if you’re on a salary that barely covers your other regular expenses. However, it is possible to get out of debt on a low salary.

Just like any other trying financial situation, becoming debt-free with a smaller income requires focus, persistence, patience, and the ability to be honest with yourself.

Entrepreneurs and business owners are often solicited for donations of one kind or another — by everyone from national advocacy groups and political campaigns to local soccer teams and school dance troupes.

So how do you decide where to donate? And what’s in it for you and your company

Living with the oppressive burden of credit card debt can be incredibly stressful, and breaking bad financial habits takes practice and dedication. For many borrowers, a debt-free future is achievable through hard work, financial education, and restraint. If you have recently conquered your credit card debt, you deserve heartfelt congratulations! You have overcome a major roadblock to good financial health. However, without careful consideration for your next steps, you might quickly find yourself back in debt. Keep these tips in mind as you navigate the world debt-free.

Whether you’re a private individual or business owner, there are plenty of good reasons to donate to charity beyond the obvious benefit of helping those in need.

For individuals and families who have been on the cusp of making major life decisions, it can seem like the COVID-19 pandemic could not have come at a worse time. Many people have had to put their plans on hold, and those who have been looking into buying a home may feel that they are stuck in limbo. A few key changes have been taking place in the real estate market, and these changes can severely impact the home buying process for many Americans. Here are some things to keep in mind while searching for a home (and a home loan) during this period of economic uncertainty. 

Many people who become small business owners do so because they are passionate about their craft or industry. While some set out with a considerable amount of business acumen, many must follow a sharp learning curve to become financially proficient. Learning how to manage the financial side of a business effectively is not a small task, which is why many owners and managers turn to financial education programs for assistance. These programs focus on the specific issues that matter most to small business owners, giving them the tools they need to make good decisions and manage their finances well. Financial education for small businesses is crucial for business owners, particularly those who are new to the business world.

The world of credit scores, loans, and credit cards can seem incredibly complex for those who are new to it. A variety of factors influences credit scores, but building credit does not have to be exceedingly complicated. Whether you are working towards buying a house or you simply want to start building credit, there are a few ways that financial novices can solidify their financial footing. Whether you have existing credit or not, consider these methods of building credit for beginners.

Avoiding debt can be tough. These days, debt in America affects almost everyone. According to Northwestern Mutual’s 2018 study, only 23% of people are debt free.

As the COVID-19 pandemic stretches on, many companies are doing what they can to keep afloat and mitigate the economic impact of this disease. With no end in sight, making a long-term financial plan can seem impossible. Many individuals and business owners are turning to cost-cutting measures to make each penny count in these uncertain times. Here are a few ways that businesses can cut expenses and improve their outlook during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In 2019, more than 44 million people in the United States carry student loan debt, for a total of $1.51 trillion.

The rise in college tuition has outstripped both wages and inflation, while a degree has become a more and more important component of any resume.

A college education is supposed to make you a more valuable member of the workforce, which is supposed to be reflected in your income. But having gone to college is no longer a guarantee of a job that pays well — starkly demonstrated by the sheer number of Uber drivers and baristas with advanced degrees.

Retirement looks different for everyone. While some people are content to continue their careers well into their sixties, some motivated professionals aim to retire early. Early retirement isn’t for the faint of heart; building up a substantial retirement savings, boosting your financial proficiency, and figuring out how to maintain your standard of living without a stream of traditional income can be a harrowing prospect. However, if everything works out well, early retirement can be an incredibly enjoyable way of life. Consider these financial planning tips to help you work towards an early retirement.

Your family is your heart and soul, so you want to make sure they’re taken care of after you’re gone. There are many ways to do this, and estate tax planning early on is critical in making sure your beloved family members enjoy continued financial security.

Whether you’re single, married, or living in a domestic partnership, estate tax planning should be at the top of your to-do list when organizing your financial matters as you age.

By following these steps, you can rest assured that your money stays where it belongs — with your family.

Balancing your budget can be a struggle. Are you paying too much for your mortgage and too little on healthy food? How are you supposed to save for the future and enjoy life now?

The 50/20/30 rule — spend 50 percent of your income on needs, 20 percent on savings and debt, and 30 percent on wants — is a simple way to think about using a basic budget to get a handle on your finances.

I have tons of student loan debt—over $90,000, in fact—and no matter how much I cut back, it seems like there's never enough money left over to start saving. There are plenty of organizations out there who say they can help with this, but it's important to do your research before committing to anything— it may not actually be the best option.

As our parents continue aging, there is a change in the role of who is taking care of whom. They become more senile and financially dependent on you to take care of their needs. Eventually, all our parents do age, and failing to prepare for this will leave you and your whole family at a disadvantage. This is why it's important to work with insurance and financial professionals with a wealth of experience planning for expenses associated with aging.  

NAIFA specializes in this and has financial advisors willing to work with you and your family to plan your finances so that you can comfortably give your aging parents the care they need. We have discussed the importance of, and some of the long-term care costs and strategies for paying them.

Most Americans will need long-term care. Unfortunately, it’s extremely expensive and can deplete your finances quickly if you aren’t prepared to pay for it.

Many people get long-term care insurance (LTCI) to cover the costs. You may have also heard about term life insurance (TLI). What’s the difference?

This article was originally posted by NAIFA partner Carefull. Carefull is the first service built to organize and protect older adults' finances. It is available for individuals, families and financial advisors who need smart financial monitoring, identity theft protection, and bill oversight for older adults' daily money matters.

Timing is really important when it comes to talking to your parents about their finances. The holidays might seem like the perfect opportunity to have these conversations because you, your siblings and parents will be together in one place (that is, when there’s not a pandemic making gatherings a challenge). You’ll be celebrating, and everyone will be relaxed. Perfect time for a family money talk, right?

Wrong. A holiday meal is not the ideal time to talk to your parents about their finances. Your efforts to discuss what could be an awkward topic could easily backfire. So before you say, “Mom and Dad, pass the turkey and let’s talk about your will,” consider the cons of trying to start this conversation during the holidays.

After serving our country, some veterans may want financial support when they come back, as they may have been disrupted from a job when being called upon. we are here to give them that financial support with 4 financial tips that will help them achieve financial success after achieving success serving our country.

If you have found yourself with seemingly-insurmountable debt, the road ahead can be unclear and perilous. Whether your balances are due to medical expenses, student loans, or credit cards, it can be incredibly challenging to get out of debt. Interest rates, loan terms, and hidden fees can make your repayment efforts seem futile. If you are looking to make wise financial decisions and get out of debt, avoid making these common mistakes.

This article was originally posted by NAIFA partner Carefull. Carefull is the first service built to organize and protect older adults' finances. It is available for individuals, families and financial advisors who need smart financial monitoring, identity theft protection, and bill oversight for older adults' daily money matters.

Scammers love to target older adults. Sure, they’ll go after people of all ages, but con artists often prey on older adults because they assume that seniors are more trusting, more vulnerable, and less likely to report being scammed.   

On top of that, scammers see older adults as prime targets because they think they’re sitting on a pile of retirement cash – cash that they hope to steal. According to a report by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, older adults reported $1.7 billion in losses to financial exploitation in 2017 alone, with an average loss among victims of $34,200. And that's only the reported losses — outside researchers estimate that actual annual losses to older adults range from $2.9 billion to $36.6 billion.

Unfortunately, there’s a chance your parents could become a part of those statistics – if they haven’t already. No matter what you do, you can’t protect your parents 100% from becoming victims. However, you can reduce their risk by taking the following steps.

Retirement is something that most people think about, regardless of their age. Whether it’s to obsess over their savings or plan what to do during their golden years, many people spend a great deal of time thinking ahead. Most company pensions are a thing of the past, and some younger folks express skepticism that retirement benefits provided by the Social Security Administration will be sufficient (or available at all) by the time they retire. For those looking to get a head start on retirement planning, financial wellness programs can provide many valuable tools, information, and insights.

Without a health insurance plan, you could be on the hook to pay an expensive medical bill next time you visit a hospital. There’s a plan out there for everyone, so here’s a look at the types of health insurance plans to find the right one for you to avoid medical debt.

If you don’t have a good health insurance plan, now’s the time to get one.

Whether you have accrued debt from student loans, credit cards, or other means, getting out of debt can take decades of hard work. High interest rates, unexpected expenses, and low earnings can all contribute to mounting debt. Fortunately, there are some approaches that borrowers can take to minimize their debt over time. If you have recently decided to redouble your efforts and focus on reducing debt, there are a few strategies to help you determine which debts to tackle and when. 

This article was previously published by Principal.

People leave the workforce for all sorts of reasons and lengths of time—some by choice, some not. But any break in work, be it temporary or prolonged, may also lead to a break or dip into retirement savings. Take the year 2020: 15% of people faced with a job loss or reduction borrowed from or cashed out retirement accounts, according to the Federal Reserve.¹

Luckily, there are lots of ways to catch up on retirement savings if you’ve left (and perhaps reentered) the workforce. Whatever path you choose depends on the tradeoffs you’re willing to make in the short and long term. These ideas may help.

For those who are just starting to get serious about their money, delving into personal finance education is a critical endeavor. Not everyone is exposed to finance-focused lessons in school. Many of us are expected to jump right into adulthood with very little formal education on things like loans, investing, and credit. If you are just starting your personal finance education journey, consider learning more about these three topics.

Long-term care in America is expensive, and if you’re not prepared to pay for it, you could find your hard-earned lifelong savings disappearing quickly.

Understanding long-term care costs and financial planning for eldercare is crucial for preserving wealth while you seek assistance for the activities of daily living you can longer do by yourself due to chronic illness, disability, injury or old age.

Few things in life are as exciting and intimidating as buying a home for the first time. For first-time homeowners, the process can appear incredibly overwhelming. It can seem like there are a million different tasks that need to be done in tandem, with each one ready to go before anything can proceed. However, with a little bit of research and a lot of planning and hard work, buying a home is an achievable goal for many Americans. Fortunately, there are a few basic steps that beginners can take to prepare before buying a home for the first time.

When most people intensify their financial planning efforts, career planning often falls by the wayside. Budgeting, debt reduction, and investing and saving strategies are typically the focus. However, career planning is a crucial part of preparing for your financial future. No matter how great you are at pinching pennies, a meager salary can put severe limits on the goals you are able to achieve. If you are considering your future financial plans, take some time to assess the state of your professional life. Follow these career planning tips to improve your economic outlook.

Most financial responsibilities are predictable, but you need rainy-day funds to deal with the unpredictable. Do you have enough?

Financial crises do arise, times when you must pay for something unexpectedly and immediately. A medical emergency could keep you out of work. Your car could break down. Home repairs could become immediately necessary. In the meantime, all your regular bills are still due.  Think of an emergency fund as something you build, rather than something you have. Circumstances such as these are not pleasant to consider, but they happen.

Are you prepared?

As a recent college graduate, after having attended the third Future Leaders meeting out of four on October 6, I gained insight into a career in financial services for undergraduates. There are many fields that are unfamiliar to students attending college, making it hard for them to make choices on what they wish to specialize in. NAIFA's Future Leaders series helps bridge that gap in knowledge by explaining more about the financial sector of jobs.

As a recent college graduate, after having attended the second Future Leaders meeting out of four on September 29, it provided insight into a career in financial services for undergraduates. There are many fields that are unknown to many students attending college, making it hard for them to make choices on what they wish to specialize in. This event helps bridge that gap in knowledge by explaining more about the financial sect of jobs.

Spending habits can be deeply ingrained and hard to break — they’re called habits because they’re regular behaviors you might not consciously think about.

As a recent college graduate, after having attended the first Future Leaders meeting out of four on September 22, and it provides insight into a career in financial services for undergraduates. There are many fields that are unknown to many students attending college, making it hard for them to make choices on what they wish to specialize in. This event helps bridge that gap in knowledge by explaining more about the financial sect of jobs.

NAIFA is pleased to join our members and industry partners, including Life Happens, to commemorate September as Life Insurance Awareness Month (LIAM). Life insurance is a crucial part of a successful financial plan for many Americans. Unfortunately, many people are underinsured, leaving their families financially vulnerable.

It was all about what you could gain during your earning years-- and now in retirement, it is how not to lose.  Join two experts, Harlan Accola of Fairway Independent Mortgage and David McKnight, the author of the Power of Zero,  for How Not to Lose in Retirement on Wednesday, July 21st at 5:30 pm eastern, as they review your most important investments: 

A big part of why we want to make (or save) money in the first place is to enjoy it. But it’s hard to save for concert tickets, travel, and other bigger purchases when all your money disappears on an average Friday night.

I think everyone dreams of a retirement where they can live a long and happy life. This has been researched by PhDs around the world, and the answers may surprise you. Research shows that people with a guaranteed lifetime income source tend to be happier and live longer. I still remember The Wall Street Journal headline that read, “The Secret to a Happier Retirement is Friends, Neighbors and a Fixed Annuity". The article went on to say that the happiest people in retirement were those who were surrounded by friends and had sources of guaranteed lifetime income. Let me ask you a question: Who are the happiest people you know in retirement? I’ll bet it’s those who are retired from the military, the government, teachers, and firefighters. It’s people with pensions! Happiness in retirement is based almost 100% on guaranteed lifetime income, not assets.

You’ve built an emergency fund, scrimping and saving all the way. First, it was $100. Then, it hit $1,000. Finally, you saved enough to cover several months of expenses.

But suddenly, an impulse hits. You want to take a vacation. You long to overhaul that lousy landscaping. Or perhaps you desire to make this the best holiday ever!

What would you say is your biggest asset?

Whether they pass as the result of a prolonged period of illness or an unexpected accident, the death of a loved one is never easy. Many families end up worrying about the costs associated with a decedent’s end-of-life care while they are trying to grieve their loss, and making sense of funeral bills, medical expenses, and insurance can be incredibly daunting. When people pass away after receiving medical care, their family members are often left to wonder what happens to the decedent’s medical debt. Medical debt can take out a significant portion of a deceased person’s estate, but determining who is responsible for paying off this debt if the estate is unable to pay in full can be difficult.

For folks who are in the final stretch before retirement, tying up any loose ends is essential. Before they begin traveling, taking up hobbies, and enjoying downtime, retirees must be sure that they have the assets necessary to support themselves. Retirement planning can take decades of hard work, but seeking sound financial advice from a professional can help ensure that retirees are on solid financial footing for their golden years. Whether you are seeking financial advice for the first time or have worked with a professional advisor for years, here are some reasons why soon-to-be retirees should talk to financial experts.

Everyone Would Like to Age-In-Place But…….

Investing while staying true to one’s personal values, including approaches that focus on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors, is growing in popularity. While many people want their investments to reflect their personal values, many also question whether they can achieve good financial results with an ESG strategy.

While the stock market tends to dominate news cycles surrounding any current large-scale event, too many average Americans are uneducated when it comes to investing. When many people see reports of record market highs and losses, massive government bailouts, and changing legislation regarding interest rates and taxes, they do not have the educational background or investing experience to translate these headlines into meaningful analyses and applications for their daily lives. Investing education is critical for all Americans, particularly in times of economic turmoil. Consider these benefits of investing education before diving into financial commitments.

If you have children or are planning to start a family in the future, you must be aware of higher education costs. If you have not yet adopted a saving plan, you might get yourself caught up in limbo. But do you know life insurance can be used as a funding source for your children's college fees? Yes, other than funds from your spouse's premature death, life insurance has a saving component known as cash value. This feature of life insurance gives an allowance of portions of your premiums to be invested.

As a woman, you will need to think about your future. This includes considering your long-term care (LTC). For example, you may need to take care of your loved ones. This doesn't account for problems life can throw at you, which will pose further problems for your LTC. We want to address some LTC concerns you could face and different ways you can handle them.

The thought of financing college for your child can be overwhelming. The cost for a state university is prohibitive for the average family. Private universities' annual costs can rival your salary. Most families with young children probably haven't even begun to consider these costs -- they are too busy putting food on the table and paying for their home. But the early years are a great time to begin planning for future educational expenses.

The countless choices can be mind boggling while researching your retirement investing options. However, there are certain decisions that should not be either/or.

Ah, life. It continues whether we are prepared or not. But preparation is key to navigating life events that affect our finances. 

Marriage

Two become one, and that means shared responsibilities and incomes. Let's face it -- life insurance may not be top-of-mind for couples embarking on a lifetime together, but perhaps it should be. If one of you was unable to work, could you afford your mortgage or your day-to-day bills? 

If you start your financial planning early in your marriage, you'll have a better chance for financial success, and you'll increase your future options. 

Individual financial planning is the process of putting together a “living” schematic organizing your personal finances to help you secure a solid financial future.

Some people forget to plan for the future when they focus on their current situations. While you may think you don't need to worry about retirement yet, you should start planning for it. Doing so can help you in various ways, especially as you put forth effort to plan and start saving for your retirement. Let's talk about the benefits you will enjoy if you start right away on your retirement plan.

A recent Wall Street Journal article (subscription required) by financial columnist Glenn Ruffenach discusses the importance of planning for long-term care and identifies insurance and financial professionals as an important source of guidance for consumers. He says that “your best first step is not to shop for a carrier or policy. Rather, it’s to shop for a knowledgeable, independent agent.”

Many Americans look forward to retirement as a time when the pressures of the working world are behind them. However, it can also create new challenges—especially around tax season.

Congratulations! You’ve made the commitment to get yourself out of debt.

Eliminating debt is an important and difficult goal to achieve, but it can be done — if you do it the right way. Here are five common mistakes to avoid:

Life insurance is not one-size fits all. Term policies tend to be less expensive and provide crucial protection for many families, but permanent life carries benefits you may not have considered. An insurance and financial advisor, such as a NAIFA member, can help you determine what type of coverage best meets your goals and fits your financial plan.

Premiums Never Change

One of the best benefits of permanent life insurance is that premiums are locked in on the policy's start date. Premiums don't change as long as they are paid, regardless of what might happen to your health as you get older. Buying early and when rates are good can provide a substantial long-term benefit for young people who get permanent life insurance. 

Do you have a retirement savings goal? Do you know how much you need to save?

Chances are good you don’t. Most Americans have no idea how much they need to save to live comfortably in retirement.

People of any age can make a plan, no matter your age.  This advice will help you determine your retirement savings goal — and get there. Starting now.

When you retire, do you plan on doing one or more of the following?

We all make mistakes. But errors in your taxes can prove costly. That’s why it’s important to educate yourself and find a quality tax planner who can help navigate you through the daunting process.