Expert insights. Personalized for you.
After work, commuting, eating, sleeping, and/or exercise, many people have less than five hours on a typical weekday to manage everything in their life, including personal finances. Weekends are even more hectic with household chores and family activities. How do you take charge of your finances when time is at a premium? With “low-maintenance” strategies to simplify financial tasks and investment decision-making. MORE
Two years ago this month, we all knew something really bad was coming. On February 2, 2020, global air travel was restricted and, on February 3, a public health emergency was declared in the U.S. three days after the World Health Organization (WHO) did the same. MORE
I’ve been thinking a lot lately about COVID-19. It drives many of my everyday decisions like sitting outside at restaurants in 90 degree Florida weather (“I’d rather sweat than die”), events that I choose not to attend, and interactions with other people. MORE
The week of February 21-25, 2022 is America Saves Week (ASW), an annual event (since 2007) that encourages Americans to save money and build wealth. Part of the America Saves program, ASW encourages people to take an online pledge to save money, set personal savings goals, and create an action plan to save money. The theme for ASW is “Building Financial Resilience,” i.e., the capacity to handle financial “shocks” such as income loss or emergency repairs. MORE
Many people think about hiring a financial advisor when their personal finances start to get complex (e.g., accumulated wealth over time) or a major life event such as retirement, the birth of a child, or the death of a spouse occurs. Three questions people often ask are “how can I find a financial advisor?,” “What factors should I consider when selecting one?,” and “how much do they charge?” MORE
I recently attended an online class about the power of habits sponsored by Next Gen Personal Finance. In that class, I heard this statement: “being excellent at things you do well is a habit.” I also learned that the cost of bad habits (e.g., MORE
As we close out 2021 and get ready to welcome 2022, it is a good time to consider the impact of indexes (a.k.a., indices) on our financial lives. Many take effect upon the start of a new year. MORE
The 2021 income tax season will soon be in the history books. With income tax calculations still fresh in our heads, this is a great time to do some tax planning for 2022. Here are 12 tax topics to consider: Itemized Deductions- Only about 10% of taxpayers can itemize since the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act went into effect in 2018. Absent catastrophic medical bills or a natural disaster declared by the U.S. President, most people can’t itemize without a plan. MORE
We are now 18 months (March 2020- September 2021) into the pandemic. Worse yet, there is STILL no end in sight. MORE
One of the most daunting financial aspects of retirement, especially for people who have been diligent savers throughout their working years, is taking required minimum distributions (RMDs) from their tax-deferred retirement savings accounts beginning at age 72. RMDs can have a significant impact on a retiree’s income tax liability and lifestyle. New RMD tables went into effect in 2022, so this is a good time to discuss RMDs. MORE
As long-time Money Talk readers know, I love to learn by attending webinars and conferences and listening to podcasts. Then, to make sure that key points stick in my mind, I review my notes and summarize them for readers. As you set goals for 2022, below are twelve tips from presentations that I heard during the past few months: Deal With Debt- Do not be ashamed of how you got into debt. Make a plan to dig out from under. MORE
Two years ago, I was in the early stages of writing my latest personal finance book, Flipping a Switch , about 35 transitions that people experience in later life. I was in between houses and living alone at the Rutgers University Inn for 13 weeks with plenty of time at night and on weekends for research and writing. Last year, I co-presented an on-demand recorded workshop about book publishing with Axton Betz-Hamilton , author of The Less People Know about Us , at the 2020 AFCPE Symposium. MORE
I recently attended several webinars and listened to several podcasts about issues related to retirement planning and personal finance issues in later life. MORE
This post is excepted from an article that I wrote for my brother Michael's website about preparing for a road trip during these challenging financial times with rising food, gas, and travel expenses. My brother Michael, a professional photographer and avid motorcyclist, started the website Roadcraft USA to share his passion for beautiful scenery and fun and interesting road trips, especially the two-wheeled kind. What do I know about motorcycles and professional photography? Absolutely nothing. MORE
Last week, I attended the virtual 2021 AFCPE (Association for Financial Counseling and Planning Education) Symposium for financial educators, planners, counselors, coaches, researchers, and content creators worldwide. MORE
When seeking assistance with personal finances, two of the most frequent questions that people ask are “where can I find local financial services professionals?” and “how much do they charge?” MORE
As I mentioned in three previous posts , I love learning new things and often attend webinars and podcasts to gain knowledge and/or continuing education credits for my CFP® and AFC® as well as to connect virtually with others. MORE
According to a leading theory, personal behavior changes, such as saving money and losing weight, take place in defined stages over a period of time. This theory, called the Transtheoretical Model of Change or TTM, has been applied to a variety of behaviors including weight control, addictions (e.g., MORE
Like an umbrella that covers your head to protect you from a rainstorm, an umbrella liability policy “covers” your other property insurance, thereby providing additional protection. Policy benefits start where other polices end. For example, after claims exceed $300,000 of liability coverage on an underlying auto or homeowners policy. MORE
Target-date funds (TDFs), which are frequently described as a “set it and forget it” approach to investing for retirement, have grown in popularity during the past two decades. Below are ten “need to knows” about investing in TDFs: How They Work- Target-date funds hold a mix of stocks, bonds, and/or cash equivalent assets and gradually become more conservative (read: a smaller percentage of stock in the fund portfolio) and income-oriented as the “target date” (e.g., MORE
A work-around (a.k.a., hack) is a strategy designed to circumvent an “issue” (problem) or challenge. It does not solve the problem or make it go away, but it makes life more manageable and allows people to get things done. Right now, inflation is an issue of concern to many people. Inflation puts upward pressure on prices and makes them rise, leading to a reduction of the purchasing power of a dollar. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. MORE
In this post, I continue my discussion of tips from webinars, podcasts, and virtual conferences that I heard during the last quarter of 2021. Below are 13 of my key take-aways: Avoid Complacency - Take proactive steps to stay on top of your finances. MORE
Last fall, I participated in a group discussion among personal finance content creators (e.g., authors, speakers, bloggers, and podcasters) attending the FinCon 2021 conference. Our topic: financial concerns of older adults. The consensus was there is no “one size fits all” content. MORE
Earlier this year, I viewed two very different webinars about retirement. They were actually scheduled at the same time so I recorded one while I watched the other so I could view both. One webinar sponsored by The American College of Financial Services covered financial topics such as income taxes, required minimum distributions (RMDs), qualified charitable distributions (QCDs), and income-related monthly adjusted amount (IRMAA) Medicare premium surcharges. MORE
I was recently cleaning out some of my files and threw out some old conference programs from the early 2010s. Before I did, I reviewed notes that I had taken looking for some “timeless nuggets” that are still relevant in 2022. Below are ten conference insights that stood out to me as still being relevant a decade later: Future Mindedness - Things appear “closer” than they otherwise are if clarity is forced upon people. MORE
In this post, I continue my discussion of tips from webinars, podcasts, and virtual conferences that I heard during the last quarter of 2021. Below are 11 of my key take-aways: Create Your Own TDF Glide Path - Consider personal factors when choosing a target date fund (TDF) glide path (i.e., MORE
True confession time! I am one of the 10 million or so tax filers that the IRS probably hates. I continue to file my taxes on paper. It’s not that I haven’t tried to use fillable forms. I have. But the process is cumbersome and it is so much easier for me- as an admitted frugal tax geek- to fill out paper forms, double check my math, and priority mail my tax return. Yes, I could hire someone or buy $100 software to complete my tax return but, as I said, I actually like filling out tax forms. MORE
I recently taught a 90-minute personal finance class for women age 50+. While preparing for the class and delivering it, I noted some major financial concerns of this demographic group that I am personally part of. MORE
Between December 11 and 31, I have been tweeting about 21 key financial events that took place during 2021 using the hashtag #21MoneyTrends2021. Below is a written summary of these financial milestones and their impact on family finances. MORE
With high inflation currently, many families are closely examining their expenses. One category is health care, which takes a big chunk out of family budgets. This includes expenses for health insurance as well as deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance when medical bills occur. MORE
Personal finances can get complex for many older adults with multiple streams of income, the need to create a retirement “paycheck,” Social Security benefits, required minimum distributions, and more. All of these events impact income taxes. MORE
Money Talk
MARCH 24, 2022
I recently taught a 90-minute personal finance class for women age 50+. While preparing for the class and delivering it, I noted some major financial concerns of this demographic group that I am personally part of.
Money Talk
MAY 5, 2022
This post is excepted from an article that I wrote for my brother Michael's website about preparing for a road trip during these challenging financial times with rising food, gas, and travel expenses. My brother Michael, a professional photographer and avid motorcyclist, started the website Roadcraft USA to share his passion for beautiful scenery and fun and interesting road trips, especially the two-wheeled kind. What do I know about motorcycles and professional photography? Absolutely nothing.
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Money Talk
DECEMBER 29, 2021
Between December 11 and 31, I have been tweeting about 21 key financial events that took place during 2021 using the hashtag #21MoneyTrends2021. Below is a written summary of these financial milestones and their impact on family finances.
Money Talk
MARCH 18, 2022
A work-around (a.k.a., hack) is a strategy designed to circumvent an “issue” (problem) or challenge. It does not solve the problem or make it go away, but it makes life more manageable and allows people to get things done. Right now, inflation is an issue of concern to many people. Inflation puts upward pressure on prices and makes them rise, leading to a reduction of the purchasing power of a dollar. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S.
Speaker: Kirsten Ferro, Vice President of Employer Sales at Carrot Fertility
In this session, we’ll discuss the complexities of fertility health and all the pieces a fertility benefit should include in order to best support your employees on their journeys.
Money Talk
MARCH 31, 2022
Last fall, I participated in a group discussion among personal finance content creators (e.g., authors, speakers, bloggers, and podcasters) attending the FinCon 2021 conference. Our topic: financial concerns of older adults. The consensus was there is no “one size fits all” content.
Money Talk
APRIL 28, 2022
I was recently cleaning out some of my files and threw out some old conference programs from the early 2010s. Before I did, I reviewed notes that I had taken looking for some “timeless nuggets” that are still relevant in 2022. Below are ten conference insights that stood out to me as still being relevant a decade later: Future Mindedness - Things appear “closer” than they otherwise are if clarity is forced upon people.
Money Talk
APRIL 21, 2022
Many people think about hiring a financial advisor when their personal finances start to get complex (e.g., accumulated wealth over time) or a major life event such as retirement, the birth of a child, or the death of a spouse occurs. Three questions people often ask are “how can I find a financial advisor?,” “What factors should I consider when selecting one?,” and “how much do they charge?”
Money Talk
DECEMBER 8, 2021
Like an umbrella that covers your head to protect you from a rainstorm, an umbrella liability policy “covers” your other property insurance, thereby providing additional protection. Policy benefits start where other polices end. For example, after claims exceed $300,000 of liability coverage on an underlying auto or homeowners policy.
Money Talk
APRIL 14, 2022
The 2021 income tax season will soon be in the history books. With income tax calculations still fresh in our heads, this is a great time to do some tax planning for 2022. Here are 12 tax topics to consider: Itemized Deductions- Only about 10% of taxpayers can itemize since the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act went into effect in 2018. Absent catastrophic medical bills or a natural disaster declared by the U.S. President, most people can’t itemize without a plan.
Advertiser: Globalization Partners
The growing digital nomad workforce offers companies new opportunities to expand their global teams. In this guide, you’ll discover key factors to consider before hiring digital nomads, as well as recommended locations that offer tailored visa programs.
Money Talk
FEBRUARY 3, 2022
Two years ago this month, we all knew something really bad was coming. On February 2, 2020, global air travel was restricted and, on February 3, a public health emergency was declared in the U.S. three days after the World Health Organization (WHO) did the same.
Money Talk
SEPTEMBER 9, 2021
We are now 18 months (March 2020- September 2021) into the pandemic. Worse yet, there is STILL no end in sight.
Money Talk
APRIL 7, 2022
Earlier this year, I viewed two very different webinars about retirement. They were actually scheduled at the same time so I recorded one while I watched the other so I could view both. One webinar sponsored by The American College of Financial Services covered financial topics such as income taxes, required minimum distributions (RMDs), qualified charitable distributions (QCDs), and income-related monthly adjusted amount (IRMAA) Medicare premium surcharges.
Money Talk
JANUARY 19, 2022
In this post, I continue my discussion of tips from webinars, podcasts, and virtual conferences that I heard during the last quarter of 2021. Below are 11 of my key take-aways: Create Your Own TDF Glide Path - Consider personal factors when choosing a target date fund (TDF) glide path (i.e.,
Speaker: Jackie Blanco, RN, BSN, Senior Manager of Medical Operations at Carrot Fertility & Nate Fournier, Enterprise Account Executive, Carrot Fertility
As an HR leader, the benefits you offer deeply impact employees' personal lives. In this webcast, we will provide you with an overview of fertility and infertility benefits, what different fertility journeys involve, and how you can best support your employees each step of the way.
Money Talk
JANUARY 13, 2022
In this post, I continue my discussion of tips from webinars, podcasts, and virtual conferences that I heard during the last quarter of 2021. Below are 13 of my key take-aways: Avoid Complacency - Take proactive steps to stay on top of your finances.
Money Talk
SEPTEMBER 1, 2021
I’ve been thinking a lot lately about COVID-19. It drives many of my everyday decisions like sitting outside at restaurants in 90 degree Florida weather (“I’d rather sweat than die”), events that I choose not to attend, and interactions with other people.
Money Talk
MARCH 10, 2022
Target-date funds (TDFs), which are frequently described as a “set it and forget it” approach to investing for retirement, have grown in popularity during the past two decades. Below are ten “need to knows” about investing in TDFs: How They Work- Target-date funds hold a mix of stocks, bonds, and/or cash equivalent assets and gradually become more conservative (read: a smaller percentage of stock in the fund portfolio) and income-oriented as the “target date” (e.g.,
Money Talk
DECEMBER 22, 2021
As we close out 2021 and get ready to welcome 2022, it is a good time to consider the impact of indexes (a.k.a., indices) on our financial lives. Many take effect upon the start of a new year.
Advertiser: Globalization Partners
In 2022, employee retention, work-life balance, and global team engagement will be top-of-mind for companies. This requires more diligence than ever, as being aware of the upcoming workforce trends will help boost retention and attract top global talent.
Money Talk
DECEMBER 16, 2021
With high inflation currently, many families are closely examining their expenses. One category is health care, which takes a big chunk out of family budgets. This includes expenses for health insurance as well as deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance when medical bills occur.
Money Talk
FEBRUARY 10, 2022
After work, commuting, eating, sleeping, and/or exercise, many people have less than five hours on a typical weekday to manage everything in their life, including personal finances. Weekends are even more hectic with household chores and family activities. How do you take charge of your finances when time is at a premium? With “low-maintenance” strategies to simplify financial tasks and investment decision-making.
Money Talk
JANUARY 26, 2022
One of the most daunting financial aspects of retirement, especially for people who have been diligent savers throughout their working years, is taking required minimum distributions (RMDs) from their tax-deferred retirement savings accounts beginning at age 72. RMDs can have a significant impact on a retiree’s income tax liability and lifestyle. New RMD tables went into effect in 2022, so this is a good time to discuss RMDs.
Money Talk
OCTOBER 20, 2021
Two years ago, I was in the early stages of writing my latest personal finance book, Flipping a Switch , about 35 transitions that people experience in later life. I was in between houses and living alone at the Rutgers University Inn for 13 weeks with plenty of time at night and on weekends for research and writing. Last year, I co-presented an on-demand recorded workshop about book publishing with Axton Betz-Hamilton , author of The Less People Know about Us , at the 2020 AFCPE Symposium.
Advertiser: Globalization Partners
Behind the rose-tinted view of global expansion, there are more ghastly tales, many involving a multitude of country-specific laws and regulations. Fail to abide, and you’re risking lawsuits, high monetary costs, permanent reputational damage, and even jail time.
Money Talk
FEBRUARY 17, 2022
The week of February 21-25, 2022 is America Saves Week (ASW), an annual event (since 2007) that encourages Americans to save money and build wealth. Part of the America Saves program, ASW encourages people to take an online pledge to save money, set personal savings goals, and create an action plan to save money. The theme for ASW is “Building Financial Resilience,” i.e., the capacity to handle financial “shocks” such as income loss or emergency repairs.
Money Talk
JANUARY 6, 2022
As long-time Money Talk readers know, I love to learn by attending webinars and conferences and listening to podcasts. Then, to make sure that key points stick in my mind, I review my notes and summarize them for readers. As you set goals for 2022, below are twelve tips from presentations that I heard during the past few months: Deal With Debt- Do not be ashamed of how you got into debt. Make a plan to dig out from under.
Money Talk
NOVEMBER 24, 2021
Last week, I attended the virtual 2021 AFCPE (Association for Financial Counseling and Planning Education) Symposium for financial educators, planners, counselors, coaches, researchers, and content creators worldwide.
Money Talk
NOVEMBER 17, 2021
When seeking assistance with personal finances, two of the most frequent questions that people ask are “where can I find local financial services professionals?” and “how much do they charge?”
Advertiser: Globalization Partners
Remote work has opened the doors to hiring the best talent anywhere. Discover how building a talent hub in a specific geographic region can help grow your company. Learn key factors to consider when creating a hub and suggested locations.
Money Talk
NOVEMBER 11, 2021
As I mentioned in three previous posts , I love learning new things and often attend webinars and podcasts to gain knowledge and/or continuing education credits for my CFP® and AFC® as well as to connect virtually with others.
Money Talk
NOVEMBER 4, 2021
According to a leading theory, personal behavior changes, such as saving money and losing weight, take place in defined stages over a period of time. This theory, called the Transtheoretical Model of Change or TTM, has been applied to a variety of behaviors including weight control, addictions (e.g.,
Money Talk
OCTOBER 7, 2021
I recently attended several webinars and listened to several podcasts about issues related to retirement planning and personal finance issues in later life.
Money Talk
SEPTEMBER 23, 2021
I recently attended an online class about the power of habits sponsored by Next Gen Personal Finance. In that class, I heard this statement: “being excellent at things you do well is a habit.” I also learned that the cost of bad habits (e.g.,
Advertiser: Globalization Partners
Your employer brand not only affects your reputation and performance but your ability to attract and retain global talent. In this article, learn effective employer branding strategies, ways to communicate your employer brand, and more.
Money Talk
FEBRUARY 25, 2022
True confession time! I am one of the 10 million or so tax filers that the IRS probably hates. I continue to file my taxes on paper. It’s not that I haven’t tried to use fillable forms. I have. But the process is cumbersome and it is so much easier for me- as an admitted frugal tax geek- to fill out paper forms, double check my math, and priority mail my tax return. Yes, I could hire someone or buy $100 software to complete my tax return but, as I said, I actually like filling out tax forms.
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