Wednesday, 8 October, 2025
The U.S. federal government entered a shutdown on October 1, 2025 after Congress didn’t pass new funding or a stopgap “CR.” Social Security and Medicare continue to pay benefits, but some services slow or pause, agencies furlough staff, and certain nutrition and aid programs face near-term funding stress. Why do […]
Why Phasing Out Paper Checks Makes Sense On August 14, 2025, the U.S. Department of the Treasury announced that, effective September 30, 2025, the federal government will stop issuing most payments via paper check. U.S. Department of the Treasury The new policy urges those still receiving paper benefit checks (e.g. […]
If you live in California, setting up a living (revocable) trust is wise for estate planning — it can help your heirs avoid the delays, costs, and publicity of probate. But California has its own rules and thresholds, especially around vehicle titling, DMV requirements, estate value limits for simplified transfers, […]
If you’re planning for retirement, one of the biggest questions is where your money will stretch the furthest. For many, Florida rises to the top of the list—not just for its sunshine and beaches, but also for its senior-friendly tax laws. From zero state income tax to generous property tax […]
In Texas, seniors benefit from a range of tax advantages that can significantly reduce their financial obligations during retirement. Here’s an overview of these benefits: 1. No State Income Tax Texas does not impose a state income tax, which means all forms of retirement income—including Social Security benefits, pensions, and […]
Estate Tax and Inheritance Tax are often confused, but they have distinct differences. The Estate Tax is a tax on the total value of a deceased person’s estate before it is distributed to the heirs. This tax is paid by the estate itself. The Inheritance Tax, on the other hand, […]
Social Security has been a cornerstone of retirement income for millions of Americans, but recent tax changes could move its insolvency date forward—meaning benefit cuts may arrive sooner than expected. For seniors, retirees, and those planning to retire in the next decade, understanding this shift is essential for protecting financial […]
To avoid outliving your retirement savings, you need to take a strategic approach that involves careful planning and disciplined spending. Below are specific tips with dollar amounts based on a person with an average lifetime salary of $75,000 a year. 1. Understand Your Living Expenses Rent/Mortgage: If you’re paying $1,500/month […]
Smart Tips to Prepare for Unexpected Medical Costs After Age 62: Many people assume that once they turn 65 and enroll in traditional Medicare, most of their healthcare costs will be fully covered. The truth is: Medicare covers a lot—but not everything. Retirees are still responsible for premiums, deductibles, copayments, […]
Signed into law on July 4, 2025, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act introduces sweeping changes to Medicaid: For the first time, able‑bodied adults aged 19–64 are required to work, volunteer, attend school, or engage in community service for at least 80 hours per month to qualify or maintain eligibility. Exemptions apply […]