Money Digest: Find Balance in Your Life & Budget

The 12 Least Tax-Friendly States For Middle-Class Americans, Ranked Worst To Best

staff@moneydigest.com (Toni Matthews - El) — Wed, 20 May 2026 17:15:00 +0000

Many middle-class Americans are struggling while also facing a heavy tax burden. Living in one of these states can actually cost the average American more.

This Common Retiree Regret Could Shrink Your Income

staff@moneydigest.com (Brianna Gunter) — Sun, 03 May 2026 10:30:00 +0000

People spend their whole working lives planning for retirement, but many still run into the same problem and wish they'd addressed it sooner.

What You Should Never Say When You're Dealing With The IRS

staff@moneydigest.com (Daniel Feininger) — Fri, 01 May 2026 10:30:00 +0000

Speaking with the IRS can be overwhelming, but dealing with the agency can be that much easier if you avoid saying this to agents handling your case.

9 Ways To Save Social Security, Ranked From Worst To Best

staff@moneydigest.com (Daniel Feininger) — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 17:15:00 +0000

Social Security is fast approaching insolvency. While this could pose serious financial complications for seniors, there are ways to get the fund back on track.

When Your Net Worth Reaches $500,000, Do These Things To Protect Your Gains

staff@moneydigest.com (Toni Matthews - El) — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 17:15:00 +0000

Amassing wealth and seeing strong returns on investments takes hard work, and these tricks will help ensure you hold onto as much of that money as possible.

These States Have The Steepest 401k Withdrawal Penalties

staff@moneydigest.com (Tamilore Onikosi) — Sat, 04 Apr 2026 22:30:00 +0000

Early 401(k) withdrawals incur penalties in the form of various taxes. If you live in one of these states, you'll pay the most to withdraw from your 401(k)s.

Your Employer's 401(k) Match Is Doing A Lot More Than Growing Your Retirement

staff@moneydigest.com (Jack Vatsal) — Sat, 28 Mar 2026 22:30:00 +0000

If your employer offers matching 401(k) contributions, these extra funds can offer a lot more benefits than simply boosting your retirement savings.

The Hands-Down Best Tax Breaks For Homeowners In These 11 US States

staff@moneydigest.com (Byron Armstrong) — Sat, 28 Mar 2026 17:15:00 +0000

Tax breaks can help homeowners make their living situation more affordable. Find out which states offer the best tax deductions and credits before you move.

Inheriting A Home Abroad Could Be Nothing More Than A Hassle

staff@moneydigest.com (Brianna Gunter) — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 22:30:00 +0000

While the idea of inheriting a home in a beautiful overseas city might sound like a dream, the reality of navigating differing policies can be anything but.

The COVID Refund That Could Put Real Money Back In Your Pocket

staff@moneydigest.com (Tamilore Onikosi) — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 16:30:00 +0000

Thanks to a federal court ruling from late 2025, some taxpayers may be eligible for a refund related to their COVID-19-era returns and payments.

When Your Net Worth Reaches This Number, It's Time To Upgrade Your Tax Plans

staff@moneydigest.com (Kyle Schurman) — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 16:30:00 +0000

While no one particularly enjoys thinking about their taxes, there is an important milestone to keep in mind when considering certain tax strategies.

The Peach State Has Big Plans To Eliminate Income Taxes (And It's Not The Only One)

staff@moneydigest.com (Tamilore Onikosi) — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 23:30:00 +0000

One southern state is making headlines for some drastic measures involving its tax laws, and several of its neighbors are making similar moves.

Fact Check: Will Trump Actually Cut Taxes For Social Security In 2026?

staff@moneydigest.com (Carolyn Osorio) — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 10:30:00 +0000

While the OBBBA has cut taxes on things like tips and overtime, Trump's promise to eliminate taxes on Social Security benefits is less straightforward.

If You Have This Type Of Portfolio, You're A Smart Investor

staff@moneydigest.com (Sarah Bloomfield) — Sun, 08 Mar 2026 19:30:00 +0000

There are as many kinds of portfolios out there as there are people, but keeping certain principles in mind when building yours can save you a lot of money.

Unwritten Rules You Should Know Before Reaching A 7-Figure Net Worth

staff@moneydigest.com (Daniel Feininger) — Sun, 01 Mar 2026 20:30:00 +0000

If you're about to join the millionaires' club (or you recently have), these unwritten rules will help you protect your newfound wealth and continue growing it.

How Long Will It Take To Get Your Tax Refund In 2026?

staff@moneydigest.com (Drew Martz) — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 17:32:22 +0000

When you will receive your tax refund depends largely on when you file and whether you file online, through a service, or via the mail.

The Hidden Downsides Of The 'No Tax On Tips' Rule

staff@moneydigest.com (Colin Boyd) — Sun, 22 Feb 2026 11:30:00 +0000

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act supposedly allows Americans to exempt tip-based income from their taxes, but that might not be cause for celebration.

The IRS Just Released The Average Tax Refund In 2026 (So Far)

staff@moneydigest.com (Colin Boyd) — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 11:30:00 +0000

Millions of Americans have already filed their returns for the 2025 tax year, and the IRS released one telling statistic that could impact the entire country.

One Of The Best Assets To Inherit Isn't Cash Itself

staff@moneydigest.com (Daniel Feininger) — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 23:30:00 +0000

While leaving an all-cash inheritance may seem like the best way to help your beneficiaries, certain cash substitutes can help simply the process.

When Your Net Worth Reaches This Number, It's Time To Upgrade Your Estate Plans

staff@moneydigest.com (Jennifer Woods) — Sun, 08 Feb 2026 23:30:00 +0000

Financial assets often outlive their owner. When those assets reach a certain value, having the proper plans in place for their future is essential.