While the Federal Reserve expects an annual inflation rate of two percent yearly, sometimes inflation runs away and starts to climb to nine or ten percent or higher. In 2022, inflation jumped to the highest rate Americans had seen since 1981. Almost overnight, gas and food prices soared, making it hard for low-income families to […]
These days, it seems like everything costs more than it should. Household debt rose by $184 billion in Q1 2024, signaling that rising prices are pushing more and more Americans further from financial freedom—or even solvency. Surveying the landscape of increasing prices, some disparities between items’ and services’ costs and values are more glaring than […]
Is there anything that is really “free” these days? Between constant headlines of inflation and rent increases and paying for what seems like everything, where can we get a break? The chance to breathe without swiping a credit card or forking over the remnants of our hard-earned cash? Though the title “poor” or low-income suggests […]
Retirement should be a time of relaxation and enjoyment – but financial stress can often rain on your parade if you’re unprepared. You’ve worked hard all your life; now it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. But what happens when those fruits aren’t as sweet as you thought? The reality is that certain […]
Let’s be honest, managing finances can feel like navigating a maze. But what if you’re already making excellent financial decisions without realizing it? In this blog post, we’ll explore 12 signs that prove you’re on the right path to financial wellness. Whether you’re new to finance or a seasoned pro, these signs will help you […]
Everyone has their philosophy on used versus new. Many believe that a used vehicle is the most valuable. Others prefer the peace of mind of knowing exactly how many miles the vehicle has traveled (zero). Some items (like underwear) should only be purchased secondhand in the most dire financial circumstances. For other items, even financially […]
“A penny saved is a penny earned!” You may not realize it, but the little things we do daily can add substantial savings over time. It can be easy to focus on the big areas of life that we want to change, but frugal living is all about consistent, small changes over time. Here are […]
Until you get there, retirement can feel like the great unknown. You have a plan but still don’t know precisely what challenges and adventures lie in wait. Fortunately, you have your own metaphorical Edmund Hillarys and Chris Columbuses who have forged the path through retirement before you. Retirement success stories are proof that gliding smoothly […]
Have you ever considered the simple, inexpensive items that can make a huge difference in your daily life? A few items can be much more helpful than expensive gadgets or appliances. Most of us are unaware of these cheap yet practical items that can make our lives easier. In this blog, we will discuss 12 […]
Middle-class individuals and families used to easily afford life’s basics. Today, thanks to rising prices, these are becoming increasingly out of reach except for the upper class. You’re not alone if you’ve experienced sticker shock when paying for essentials that are now luxuries. These price hikes affect many, and they’re not happy about it. 1. […]
