Couples - 360 Degrees of Financial Literacy

15 Ways to Save on Your Next Vacation

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 17:30:05 EDT

Whether your vacation budget is big or small, no one likes to spend more than necessary when traveling. Here are some tips that can help you save on your next trip.

The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 20:32:04 EST

The new year started with some political drama, as Congress passed legislation on January 1, 2013, to prevent the country from going over the "fiscal cliff." The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 (ATRA) permanently extends a number of major tax provisions and temporarily extends many others. The legislation also temporarily postpones major automatic spending cuts that were scheduled to take place at the beginning of the year. Here's what you need to know.

The Economics of Borrowing from Your 401(k)

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 17:04:33 EST

When times are tough, that pool of dollars sitting in your 401(k) plan account may start to look attractive. But before you decide to take a plan loan, be sure you understand the financial impact. It's not as simple as you think.

Real-life Financial Tips for Different Generations

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 16:51:14 EST

Do you remember The Game of Life®? In Milton Bradley's popular board game, players progress through life stages making decisions that affect their prosperity. Like those players, today's generations face financial decisions with lasting effects. Here are some tips for staying focused despite life's ups and downs.

How to Give Wisely and Well

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 15:36:54 EST

Giving to charity has never been easier. You can donate the old-fashioned way--by mail--but you can also donate online, by text, or through social networking sites. According to the National Center for Charitable Statistics, over 1.4 million nonprofit organizations are registered with the IRS. With so many charities to choose from, it's more important than ever to ensure that your donation is well spent. Here are some tips that can help you become both a generous and wise donor.

Healthy Personal Finance Resolutions for the New Year

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 15:14:40 EST

The new year is the time when many individuals start making resolutions to live a healthier lifestyle. And while resolving to eat better and exercise more is a good thing, you should be sure to make resolutions that pertain to the overall health of your personal finances as well.

Estate Planning Issues for Unmarried Couples

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 11:23:22 EST

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there were 7.7 million unmarried partners living in the same households in 2010. Yet there are several laws that are potentially beneficial to married couples that are not available to unmarried partners, especially when it comes to estate planning. That's why it's important to recognize the risks faced by unmarried partners and some potential ways to help mitigate them.

Two Social Security Strategies for Married Couples

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 10:56:43 EST

Spousal Lifetime Access Trust (SLAT)

Mon, 15 Oct 2012 16:53:52 EDT

So, you are thinking about making a large gift that is sheltered from gift tax by the applicable exclusion amount. However, you have concerns about losing access to the gifted property or its income; you might not need it now, but what if things change and you do need it later? If you are married, one possible solution might be a spousal lifetime access trust (SLAT).

Four Retirement Planning Mistakes to Avoid

Mon, 15 Oct 2012 16:33:09 EDT

We all recognize the importance of planning and saving for retirement, but too many of us fall victim to one or more common mistakes. Here are four easily avoidable mistakes that could prevent you from reaching your retirement goals.