The 50-Cent Coin That's Worth A Ton Of Money
The U.S. half dollar dates back to 1794, and there have been three different individuals to feature on the coin's obverse. The last change took place in 1964.
Read MoreArchive for September 2024
Back to Archive IndexBanking (6)
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How Do Online-Only Banks Work?
Surveys say more than 70% of people prefer banking online than in person. This shift has opened the door for banks that lack any physical location to visit.
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Why Warren Buffett Once Told His Daughter, 'Go To The Bank Like Everyone Else'
Warren Buffett has a very specific plan for how his wealth (nearly $144 billion) can do the most good. His three children will help him achieve it.
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Does The National Debt Actually Affect You And Your Wallet?
The national debt reached $35 trillion in July 2024. But, this is the government's debt, so does it actually affect your wallet? In a way; here's how.
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Think Twice Before You Discuss This Financial Information With Friends
While money doesn't have to be a non-topic when talking with friends, there are some things to keep in mind if/when it comes up in your conversations.
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At This Age, Paying Off Your Mortgage Should Be Your Biggest Money Goal
No financial advice is universal. With that said, as you near retirement, you may start to zero in on eliminating one monthly expense: your mortgage.
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Budgeting (43)
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What Is A Pawnshop Loan? (And Why They're So Risky)
IBISWorld reports the number of pawnshops in the U.S. in 2023 declined 3.3% from 2022. That said, there are over 7,850 pawnshops in the country.
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You've Been Warned: Think Twice About Retiring Early, Says CFP
We spoke with CFP Lawrence Sprung about the pros and cons of retiring early. Full retirement age is now 66 or 67, depending on the year you were born.
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How To Talk To Your Kids About Money
We asked author David Delisle for tips on talking to kids about money matters, including what age is best to start and what exactly you should share.
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Restaurant Workers On How Changes In Tipping Culture Have Affected Them
According to a 2023 Pew Research Center survey, a net 92% of people tipped servers when dining out. This could help explain another survey's results.
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5 Reasons People Use Social Security Early (And 5 Reasons People Don't)
As full retirement age increases (67 for anyone born in 1960 or after), it also gets further away from the age people can start to draw benefits: 62.
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Popular Grocery Store Chain Raises Its Starting Pay To $23 An Hour
In March 2024, this discount grocer, the fastest-growing grocery chain in the country, announced it would be opening 800 more stores in the U.S. by 2028.
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You've Been Warned: Social Security May Be Monitoring Your Social Media
For those with disability claims, in addition to the SSA, insurance companies may also be looking into your social media, including any Venmo notes.
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What Does It Mean To Be A HENRY?
We've explained what it means to be a DINK (dual income, no kids); now we break down another acronym describing a person's financial situation/status.
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Do This In Early Retirement To Boost Your Savings
Depending on your birth year, full retirement age is 66 or 67. And data from the Pew Recent Center finds 19% of people 65 or older are still working today.
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Financial Coach Names The Worst Money Advice From TikTok
It's understandable people want in on financial opportunities, however, following the crowd on social media like TikTok can be a huge money mistake.
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States That Tax Social Security Benefits
Since 1984, Social Security income has been subject to federal tax. For taxpayers living in nine states, they also might pay state taxes on their benefits.
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Following This Simple Savings Rule Can Propel Your Net Worth To The Next Level
Building your net worth takes strategy. This strategy helps you chip away debt while saving for the future, using money you didn't (just) have.
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5 Brilliant And 5 Not-So-Brilliant Ways To Trick Yourself Into Saving Money
When saving money, little wins can go a long way in keeping you motivated. Unfortunately, less successful approaches can have the opposite effect, too.
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How To End The Year Financially Strong
Finishing the year off financially strong lets you start the new year off in the best possible way. You don't want to carry over anything from the prior year.
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Even With Social Security, Baby Boomers Are Financially Struggling. Here's The Evidence
For retirees living on a fixed income, with a good percentage of it being from Social Security, there's little left at month's end for the unexpected.
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Social Security Rules That Can Drastically Increase Your Monthly Benefits
Before retirement, it pays to know your options for Social Security. There are certain rules that can make a big difference in how much you get in each check.
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Retirees In These States Will Receive The Biggest Social Security Increase In 2025
The Social Security Administration will announce the 2025 COLA rate this October. Certain states will see a bigger boost than others; here's why.
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How Lifestyle Inflation Actually Costs You, And What You Can Do To Avoid It
Today, many people who earn six figures are still living paycheck to paycheck. One reason may be lifestyle inflation, which creeps up on you slowly.
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Why Some Americans Will Get An Extra Social Security Payment In November
Specifically, this extra payment concerns recipients of Supplemental Security Income benefits, or SSI. Also, perhaps a better word would be "early."
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Social Security Will Undergo 3 Changes In 2025. How Will It Affect Retirees?
As more U.S. retirees wonder if they'll have enough funds to last their retirement years, any change to Social Security can prove a significant one.
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You're Not Alone: The Amount Of People Behind On Their Retirement Savings Is Staggering
Retirement is fast approaching for many. According to Alliance for Lifetime Income, 11,200 Americans will turn 65 every day in 2024, on through 2027.
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How Much Do Americans Think They Need To Live Comfortably?
For many Americans, the annual income they feel they need to live comfortably is incredibly high. Many also feel like they will never reach that goal.
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10 Of The Worst Instagram Scams To Beware In 2024
By most counts, Instagram has over 1.4 billion active users. For scammers, the app's popularity provides the ideal place to carry out their fraudulent schemes.
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The Most Important Day Of The Year For Social Security Is Coming
For those of us who receive Social Security, a particular day is nearing that will tell us a great deal about what our benefits will look like next year.
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Big Changes Coming To Social Security In September Thanks To 3 New Rules
On September 30, three rule changes to Supplemental Security Income will go into effect, changes Social Security Commissioner Martin O'Malley called "systemic."
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How Much Will People Bet This NFL Season?
The 2024 NFL season will last for 18 weeks; in that time, 32 teams will play 272 games. On those games, Americans are expected to bet a record amount.
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3 Of The Best Countries To Retire Abroad If You Want The Best Bang For Your Buck
One way to save in retirement is to move ... overseas. Countries like the three here offer not only a wonderful lifestyle but a boost to your purchasing power.
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Analysts Forecast 2.5% COLA Increase For Social Security In 2025
Though the Social Security Administration won't announce the 2025 COLA rate until October, the final estimate puts the increase at 2.5%, the lowest since 2021.
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The High Salaries Of These Blue-Collar Jobs May Surprise You
According to the Social Security Administration, the average salary in the U.S. is $63,795. These blue-collar jobs pay a good deal above that.
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You Might Soon Be Able To Bet On The Presidential Election
If bettors do get to wager on the upcoming November 5 election, it'll actually be a throwback, as the country used to have thriving election markets.
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The Underrated Financial Fitness Milestone That Will Protect You On A Rainy Day
Being financially fit means you're in a position to make good financial decisions. And just like physical fitness, remember that it doesn't happen overnight.
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Telltale Signs A Travel Booking Site Is Fake And Trying To Scam You
It's natural to want to find the best vacation deals. But be aware that travel scams are prevalent and are among the BBB's 10 riskiest consumer scams.
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The Frugal Hack That Will Make You Money And Clear Your Space, Too
According to OfferUp, the recommerce market is expected to reach $276 billion by 2028. This frugal hack involves you becoming part of this e-commerce sector.
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10 Reasons Why You Might Think About Delaying Your Retirement
Nearly everyone looks forward to the day that they can retire, but for many, delaying that date by a few years can provide a host of benefits.
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The Underrated Money Move That Could Fund Your Next Vacation
You can expect to spend easily over $1,000 per individual for a three-day vacation these days. Here's a simple, old-school way to get closer to that number.
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Surprisingly 'Lazy' Ways To Make Real Money Online
By "lazy," we mean with little effort on your part. And while the following ideas do take considerable set-up, once done, they're pretty easy gigs.
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A Majority Of Americans Worry Their Retirement Funds Will Run Out
For a majority of Americans, a common financial worry centers on having enough money during their retirement years. Here are a few ways to strategize.
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How Booking A 'Shoulder Season' Vacation Can Save You Money
"Shoulder season" doesn't have to do with warm weather. Though, it does play a part in when a popular spot's shoulder season begins and ends.
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The Price For Some Colleges Just Hit This Very Troubling Number
U.S. News data shows that it costs $42,162 on average to attend a private college. The high end of that calculation now costs more than twice as much.
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10 Ways People Waste Their Money At Restaurants
While not dining out can certainly save you money, going out to a restaurant every now and then is fine, too. Just, when you do, keep in mind some frugal tips.
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Clever Ways Frugal People Save Money On Gift Wrapping
For many, wrapping paper and gift bags are gifting essentials. However, not only are they pricey but they also result in a ton of annual waste.
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Avoid Doing Chores During This Time Of Day To Save On Your Energy Bill
Like coins in a jar, where something small can turn into something big over time, making this small adjustment to your chores schedule can prove significant.
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Beloved Restaurant Chains Facing Bankruptcy In 2024
2024 has been a rough year for many chain restaurants, with a slew of popular concepts declaring bankruptcy and exploring restructuring.
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Business (1)
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10 Famous Businesses That Changed Their Names (Including Campbell's)
Some businesses undergo a rebrand because they need a fresh new start, while others change their name because it no longer represents what they offer.
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Collectibles (3)
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The $2 Bill That's Actually Worth A Ton Of Money
Though rarely used or seen, there are actually a lot of $2 bills out there. The Federal Reserve reports there's $3.2 billion worth of Toms in circulation.
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Vintage Lunch Boxes That Could Be Worth A Ton Of Money Today
Over 120 million lunch boxes were sold between 1950 and 1970, says collector Thad Reece. This is part of why not all old lunch boxes are valuable today.
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Vintage Board Games That Are Worth Considerably More Now
Board games today cost around $15 to $45. Could any of these be worth twice, triple, or more with time? The following criteria will determine that.
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Earning (2)
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Which States Have A Minimum Wage Of $15 Or More?
On January 1, 2024, two states, Maryland and New Jersey, joined the group of seven states, plus the District of Columbia, with a minimum wage of $15 or more.
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A Look At Federal Vs. State (Vs. Local) Minimum Wages
The federal minimum wage has not changed in 15 years. In July 2009, it increased from $6.55 to $7.25. Many states have higher baseline wages today.
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Investing (11)
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What Has Happened In The Past After An Interest Rate Cut?
On September 18, the Fed cut its benchmark interest rate by a surprising half-point. It was the central bank's first rate reduction since March 2020.
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Experts Warn Against Following Tim Walz's Retirement Savings Move, Call It A 'Mistake'
Tim Walz withdrew from his retirement account to help pay for his daughter's college expenses. Here's what the decision meant for the Walzes' savings.
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FBI Reports Financial Losses From Crypto Scams Increased By 45% Last Year
Further, complaints to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) demonstrated that crypto scammers are now operating across all scheme categories.
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Millionaires Follow This Edgy Investing Rule For The Biggest Payoff
Hear about the next big thing in stocks? Money Digest's Daniel Feininger explains how this investing rule takes those trends, only to do the opposite.
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Dave Ramsey Reveals The Age People Should Start Taking Social Security, But There's A Catch
For this strategy, it's important to remember that the full retirement age for Social Security is now age 66 or 67, depending on the year you were born.
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Influencers Who Promoted Shady Crypto Scams
With thousands of different cryptocurrencies, it can be difficult to know what to invest in. Unfortunately, many may follow the lead of influencers.
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You've Been Warned: This Common 401(k) Rollover Mistake Will Cost You
This particular 401(k) mistake will result in a hefty tax bill that is entirely avoidable. Whether a direct or indirect rollover, here's what you need to know.
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Members Of Congress Who Have Made A Fortune From Stock Trading
We've covered the richest members of Congress, but in this article, we take a closer look at congressional members who've made money on Wall Street.
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Lower Interest Rates Are Coming: Here's How Some Investors Stay Prepared
As Fed rate cuts loom, Money Digest's Richard Sachek, a FINRA-licensed professional, explains how investors can position themselves for the inevitable.
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Don't Let The 'September Effect' Fool You Into A Bad Investment Move
Based on nearly 100 years of market data, many believe in the "September Effect." However, many experts will advise you not to let the past impact the present.
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Historically, How Does The Market Perform In September?
When it comes to equities, September isn't historically a month investors look forward to, especially when compared to months like November and December.
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Retirement (3)
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Is Social Security Going To Run Out? These Scenarios Are Concerning
Social Security insolvency doesn't mean there's no money left, only that beneficiaries may start to see a reduction in their benefits. Also, a delay.
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A New Bill Could Significantly Impact Social Security Benefits
On September 19, a discharge petition for the bipartisan Social Security Fairness Act secured the signatures it needed (218) to force a vote on the House floor.
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Kamala Harris Vs. Donald Trump On The Future Of Social Security
It's important to remember that changes to Social Security come from Congress. The last time the program underwent a major overhaul was 41 years ago.
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Shopping (19)
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How Much Money Can You Really Save By Booking Travel Through Costco?
Costco launched its travel division in 2000. Exclusive to Costco members, the travel deals range from car rentals to all-inclusive resort vacations.
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This Common Engagement Ring Shopping Mistake Will Cost You
According to The Knot, the average cost for an engagement ring is $5,500. Unfortunately, many ring shoppers may be making this key "letter" mistake.
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How To Save On Your Car Insurance
Auto insurance is pricey, but necessary in the majority of states, with 48 out of 50 states requiring drivers to carry some level of insurance.
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You've Been Warned: Buying A House In These Florida Cities Will Cost You
We spoke with investor Dutch Mendenhall about what Florida cities to be wary of when buying a home. The state's homeownership rate in 2023 was 67.3%.
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Costco Price Tag Codes You Should Know For The Most Savings
Savvy Costco shoppers know where to look for additional savings, and it's in the price tag. Small changes can mean big savings at the warehouse store.
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What The New Real Estate Commission Rules Mean For Buyers And Sellers
On August 17, new real estate rules concerning commissions went into effect, just in time for the fall season, which is, historically, less crowded.
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You've Been Warned: Don't Make This Costco Shopping Mistake, It'll Cost You
Volume, resulting in lower unit pricing, is how shoppers are able to save at Costco. However, making this one mistake can wipe out those savings.
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Is Apple TV+ Worth The Subscription Price?
As the streaming wars continue, consumers have more choices than ever, and Apple TV+ has been one option since 2019. Here, we take a look at what you get.
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Car Insurance Rates Are Rising Fastest In These 5 States, Per New Report
In addition, we'll take a look at the states with the highest auto insurance rates (it's not the same as the fastest risers), and why rates are increasing.
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Why Does Concert Merchandise Cost So Much?
Part of any concert experience is buying some awesome merch. But fans will tell you prices aren't cheap; however, one reason is beyond the artist's control.
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The Real Reason McDonald's Is Giving Its Classic McFlurry A New Look
McFlurry fans will surely remember when the treat's iconic hollow spoon was phased out. For the same reason, McDonald's is now set to change the McFlurry cup.
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The Average Time It Takes To Sell A Home In 2024
In 2020, the average time to sell a home was a speedy 25 days. Today, this number is considerably higher (though not for all areas of the country).
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How Much Should It Cost To Spay Or Neuter A Cat?
Factors that'll determine the cost of spaying or neutering your cat include where you get the procedure done, your location, and the age of your cat.
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This Housing Decision Could Prove Costly For Newlyweds. Here's Why
For any couple, buying a home is a huge decision, whether you're a newlywed or not. That said, for those newly married, here's what you should weigh.
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The Impact Of Climate Change On Auto Insurance Rates
Like the rising cost of homeowners insurance in states at risk of weather events, car insurance is also affected by the cost of covering weather-related claims.
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You've Been Warned: This Sneaky Shopping Mistake Will Cost You
If you want to avoid buyer's remorse, you can start by not falling for this common shopping pitfall. Your wallet and closet will thank you.
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Is Buying A House With Cash A Smart Money Move?
Per Redfin data, 34.1% of U.S home purchases in September 2023 were all-cash purchases. This continued an upward trend and marked the highest share since 2014.
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Report Expects Mobile Shopping Trend To Continue This Holiday Season
Americans have been moving toward mobile shopping versus desktop shopping for several years now. Though certain categories are more likely than others.
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How Much Should It Cost To Spay Or Neuter A Dog?
The BLS reports Americans spend, on average, $900 a year on their pets. Health care, from vaccinations to spay and neuter, is a big part of that expense.
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Spending (2)
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The Cost Of Battling Wildfires Is More Than You Think
We take a look at the economic costs of wildfires, as well as the consequences (increasingly far-reaching) of climate change-fueled weather disasters.
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Why So Many Restaurant Chains Are Struggling In 2024
Restaurant bankruptcies have been in the news a lot in 2024. For these businesses to survive now and in the future, they'll need to find a way to pivot quickly.
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Taxes (2)
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Strategies To Minimize Your Tax Liability In Retirement, According To A Tax Coach
For retirees, many of whom live on a fixed income, paying less taxes can only help. Tax strategist Barbara Schreihans explained ways they can do so.
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Who Will Lower America's Taxes More, Donald Trump Or Kamala Harris?
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 is central to the proposed tax policies of the two U.S. presidential candidates. The TCJA is set to expire at the end of 2025.
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