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To Itemize Deductions or not to Itemize Deductions - That is the Question Thumbnail

To Itemize Deductions or not to Itemize Deductions - That is the Question

Before the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (TCJA), we used to be able to deduct all kinds of things and you really had to work and track expenses to optimize your tax savings. The Act simplified the tax code by getting rid of a lot of the eligible deductions and by making standard deductions so high, that most people won’t need to itemize. While the standard deduction provides a straightforward option, exploring itemized deductions can unearth additional savings for those willing to put in a bit of extra effort.

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Scrooge and the Ghosts of Financial Planning   Thumbnail

Scrooge and the Ghosts of Financial Planning

In Charles Dickens's timeless classic, "A Christmas Carol," Ebenezer Scrooge transforms from a miserly old man to a generous and empathetic soul. Along the way, he encounters the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come, who reveal important lessons about life and, surprisingly, financial planning. Join us on a journey through Scrooge's experiences to learn valuable financial lessons regarding the past, present, and future.

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What Type of Relationship Do You Have With Money? Thumbnail

What Type of Relationship Do You Have With Money?

Did you know that the way you grew up impacted your relationship with money? Everyone has subconscious beliefs regarding it and most of them stem from childhood. Personal experiences and family values also impact our understanding of money, often in ways we don’t even realize. Whether you’re a financial aficionado or barely aware of what you have in your checking account, understanding your money script can be a game-changer.

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Choosing a Retirement Date: Is the End or First of the Year Better?   Thumbnail

Choosing a Retirement Date: Is the End or First of the Year Better?

There are only 24 hours of separation between the last day of the year and the first day of the new year. Nevertheless, choosing the official calendar date of your retirement to be in one calendar year over another is not a trivial decision. The date you choose for retirement may mess with your retirement money, may cost you more (or less) in taxes, and might cause you to lose bonuses or benefits. Before you make a bad decision, here are some tips to help you figure it out.

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5 Strategies for Managing Financial Stress During the Holidays   Thumbnail

5 Strategies for Managing Financial Stress During the Holidays

The holiday season is a time of joy and headaches, celebration, fatigue, and togetherness mixed with a few knock-down drag-out fights. On top of the emotional rollercoaster ride can come a big wallop of financial stress. From buying gifts to hosting parties and traveling to see loved ones, plus filling up a cabinet with booze, expenses can quickly add up, leaving many overwhelmed.

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The Herd Mentality: Why We Follow the Pack Thumbnail

The Herd Mentality: Why We Follow the Pack

Herd mentality doesn’t just apply to politics. It can seep into various aspects of our lives, including investing. But why do we succumb to it? Herd behavior involves individuals mimicking the actions of a larger group. In the world of investing, this behavior often stems from a desire for safety and the belief that collective decision-making reduces the risk of making an incorrect choice.

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'Tis the Season for Scammers: 3 Steps to Spot Charity Fraud   Thumbnail

'Tis the Season for Scammers: 3 Steps to Spot Charity Fraud

For many people, the holiday season is when you enjoy family and friends and give a little back to those in need. Charitable giving is its highest during the holiday months. While many legitimate charities are out there looking for support, there are also scammers looking to take advantage of the holiday goodwill. Not sure whether a charity you want to contribute to is on the up-and-up? Below are a few steps you may take to see if the charity is fraudulent.

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4 Thanksgiving Lessons for a Feast-Worthy Financial Plan   Thumbnail

4 Thanksgiving Lessons for a Feast-Worthy Financial Plan

Thanksgiving is a holiday for spending time with loved ones, being grateful, and perhaps enjoying a bit of overindulgence. There are many financial lessons to be had in planning, preparing, and celebrating this annual feast.1 Here are four Thanksgiving lessons that might help your household's financial plan year-round.

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