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Some credit repair companies seem too good to be true in fixing credit score issues--and that's because they are We've all experienced a late payment that hit our credit score; and the years-long process of perfect payment history to overcome that stumble. As delinquencies on credit card debt rise to pre-pandemic levels, the National Foundation for Credit Counseling has seen a demand for credit counseling services. Companies that sell "credit repair" services are also on the rise-- alluring to many people eager for a faster fix to their credit score. However, these companies are rarely effective. Credit repair companies typically blitz credit bureaus with dispute letters with the hope of getting negative information on a credit score removed. But these letters rarely work. If the negative information is accurate, there's no way to have it erased or repaired. Negative information like missed or late payments remains on your credit report for seven years, while a personal bankruptcy stays for 10 years. For people attempting to erase these mistakes, paying for credit repair is fruitless. What’s the best way to protect my credit score? Paying bills on time and keeping your use of credit low are the best way to build and maintain a good score. You should also regularly check your credit score for errors, with free reports from the big bureaus (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion). How can I repair my credit score, if I have issues? You can search online at the National Foundation for Credit Counseling for reputable credit counseling agencies. The Justice Department also maintains a list of agencies that are approved to provide pre-bankruptcy counseling, credit counseling, and debt-management plans. If you’re having trouble with your credit due to missed debt payments, one alternative is to seek advice from a nonprofit consumer credit counseling agency. Such groups can assess your finances and arrange for a debt management plan, which will allow you to pay off your debts over time. Some agencies may charge a fee, which is offset by a lower interest rate negotiated by the agency. However, be skeptical of debt “settlement” companies. These companies pressure borrowers to stop paying their lenders; and instead send their payments to the settlement company. The settlement company then takes a cut of the borrower's payment and negotiates the lender into accepting less money than what is owed. Conclusion Improving your credit score lies in conscientious financial habits. Avoid the allure of quick fixes offered by ineffective debt settlement and credit repair services, as they often come with hidden pitfalls and may not deliver the promised results. Instead, focus on the power of steady, incremental progress. By consistently paying your bills on time and keeping your credit utilization low, your credit score will naturally rise and open doors to better financial opportunities.

How do I convince the love of my life that a prenup protects us both, and isn't an omen that we'll end up divorced before we say "I do"? Dear Metro Money, I'm engaged and thrilled to get married. There's only one problem: My fiancé and I can't agree on getting a prenup. As a woman who may need to leave the workforce to raise children, I want to avoid being left in a difficult financial situation should the worse happen. I've had countless friends and family end up in terrible circumstances post-divorce, because there was no prenup. My aunt and my mom, for example, were both left with nothing when their husbands left them. My fiancé, on the other hand, grew up in a two parent household. His parents are still together without any significant financial problems. He hasn't seen what I've seen; and he believes signing a prenup is an omen that I don't believe our marriage will last. I love him, and I believe we'll have a long happy marriage. But I think his position is irrational and unfair. I don't want to break up, but this feels like I'm sacrificing my well-being to quell what I believe to be highly superficial concerns. - To Prenup, or Not to Prenup Dear Prenup, I'm preaching to the choir but prenups get an unfair shake. While prenups can seem you’re “planning for a divorce,” every couple can benefit from a well-drafted and fair prenup. In fact, a prenup wouldn't just to protect you, it would protect your fiancé as well. An outside party, like an attorney specializing in family law, might help you both understand that better. Ask your fiancé if he would be willing to just take one introductory meeting, to learn more. Maybe that would be a good step in the right direction. If your fiancé still refuses to get a prenup after meeting with an attorney, then you have a deeper rooted problem that even marriage won't solve. It might be worthwhile to seek counseling, to understand where your fiancé's fear is coming from. Have a counselor during sessions constructively address why a prenup is important to you, and alarming for your him. Hopefully, he’ll clearly communicate his fears about the prenup and you'll both be able to manage those fears head on. If you still can't make any headway, then you'll have to decide if a prenup is a deal breaker for you. It's not an easy choice, but given your personal experiences, it's understandable why your fiancé's stance might give you pause. You might need to ask yourself uncomfortable questions about whether this point is one you can sacrifice your position on, or if you need to walk away. Good luck, Metro Money

How do I get my girlfriend to stop procrastinating and to start taking our shared finances seriously? Dear Metro Money, My girlfriend and I have been together for 5 years. We have an incredible relationship and recently moved in together. To that end, we decided to get a joint account for all of our shared expenses, like rent, utilities, date nights, etc. We agreed that since we both make similar incomes that we would contribute to our joint account equally. For the first month, I put in $2,000. She asked to only put in $1,500; and that she would make up the difference in the next month. However, the next month came; and she was short the amount owed to me. She asked to contribute another $1,500; and that she would make up the (now) $1,000 owed to me the following month. It's now time to contribute to our joint account again--and again, she's asked to defer what she owes me to the next month. When I ask her why she's deferred what's owed to our joint account multiple times, she says she's having a tough month and that she needs another month "to get her together." She does seem stressed about money, but we live together and I can see how much she's spending on non-essentials (e.g. shopping, girls' trips, going-out, etc.) I don't want to seem judgmental on how she spends her money, because we aren't married and our finances are largely separate. But at the same time, if she has money for trips and brunch, then she has money to contribute to our joint account. It doesn't seem fair for me to be paying more of our shared bills, so she can "unwind" with more of her own discretionary spending. I feel awful for saying this, but this feels like a deal-breaker to me. I don't think my girlfriend is trying to take advantage of me--she does seem truly anxious and stressed out, and maybe spending on retail therapy helps. But I can't help but ask: what about me? - Me, Myself, and I Dear Me, Myself and I, You're asking: what about me? It's a good question to ask, especially given the situation here: You and your girlfriend agreed on a clear structure to shared bills and expenses, you held up on your end, and she did not. So what now? I think you should sit down with your girlfriend and let her know that her inability to contribute equally to your shared expenses is causing stress in the relationship for you. Ask if she understands the arrangement you two decided on together, and clear up any confusion. If there is no confusion, then probe on why she's unable to pay. If she's genuinely unable to pay (even if you subtract the non-essential spending), then you two need to assess your combined incomes and expenses together. You mentioned that you have similar incomes, but do you have similar income to debt ratios? Is she burdened with a car loan or student debt that you're not thinking about? Perhaps you split your expenses based on the ratio of income brought in, AFTER debt payments. Perhaps you cut certain expenses, in order to keep your shared finances lower. Perhaps she needs to start looking at side hustles or extra income, to make ends meet while she searches for a higher paying job. If she's able to pay, but just isn't--that's a different problem. If she has a deep seated problem of spending money to cope with anxiety, ask her what's causing her stress. Is there something she's afraid to talk about and is silently treating it with retail therapy? If so, it may be worthwhile for her to seek therapy while learning about money management. Lastly, you say this is a deal-breaker for you, which I think is fair. Be honest with your girlfriend about that; and let her know that if there isn't a resolution to this problem, you'll have to consider parting ways. While you can be there to support her, at the end of the day, it's her responsibility to figure out how to handle this longer term. Procrastinating and pushing to the next month is not a good enough plan. Good luck, Metro Money

Talking about money with your partner can help you define financial values, develop strategies to reach shared financial goals, and resolve disagreements about money. Why should you talk to your partner about money? Everyone has different financial aspirations and goals. Discussing these with your partner helps ensure that both of you are on the same page. Whether it's buying a house, saving for a dream vacation, or planning for retirement, aligning your financial goals allows you to work together towards a shared vision, avoiding potential conflicts that may arise if expectations are not clearly communicated. These 50 money-related questions can help you start the conversation. What questions should I ask about spending, saving and budgeting? These financial questions can help you and your partner establish a household budget, agree on how to split bills and identify weak spots in your saving and spending habits: Are you more of a spender or a saver? Do you keep a monthly budget? What is your annual income? How much money do you typically spend each month? How do you typically spend your disposable income? What's the most money you've ever spent at one time? Do you feel it's important to ask for my permission before making a large purchase? Which expenses would you cut to reduce your total spending? Would you prefer to split utilities and other expenses equally or according to our income? Should we open a joint bank account or keep our money separate? How much do you save on a monthly basis? Do you keep an emergency savings fund? How do you maintain your long-term savings? What are your long-term financial goals? What would you do if you received lottery winnings, an inheritance or any other unexpected windfall? What questions should I ask about debt and credit? Each partner's debt and credit scores can have an impact on their shared finances. To better understand how your partner navigates credit and debt, begin with these questions. What are your credit scores? Do you regularly check your credit reports and credit scores? Do you know how your credit habits impact your credit reports and credit scores? How frequently do you pay for things using credit? How many credit cards do you have? Do you know the outstanding balance of each of your credit cards? Do you know when your credit card billing cycles end? How much do you pay in interest each month? How much debt do you currently have? Do you owe money to friends or family? Do you have a plan to pay off your debt? Have you ever fallen behind on payments for a loan or line of credit? Have you ever defaulted on a loan? Have you ever had to deal with debt collectors? Have you ever filed for bankruptcy? What questions should I ask about children and family? Money topics related to family and children can be intimidating, but they're critical if you plan to maintain a future together. Do you owe alimony or child support to a previous partner? How do you plan to teach your children about money? Do you plan to contribute to your children's secondary education? Do you plan to pursue secondary or post-secondary education for yourself — either now or in the future? Would you accept a loan from a friend or relative? Would you lend money to a friend or relative in need? Do you plan to support your parents or other relatives as they age? How much financial assistance would you offer your sick or elderly parents? When you were growing up, did your parents discuss their financial challenges with you? Did your parents teach you any important lessons about money? What questions should I ask about retirement? If you and your partner hope to retire together, you'll also need to make sure you're aligned on your expectations leading up to and during retirement. How do you hope to spend your retirement? Where are you hoping to retire? What is your ideal retirement age? Do you expect to retire when your spouse does or at different times? Do you have a long-term retirement savings strategy? What retirement accounts do you have and how often do you contribute to them? When can you afford to retire based on your current savings? Do you expect to work at all during retirement? What are your current investments? What investments do you hope to make in the future? Conclusion While these questions can help guide important financial conversations, they are by no means exhaustive. Talking to your partner about finances is not just about dollars and cents--it's about building trust and transparency. These conversations may not always be easy, but the benefits are immeasurable.

Inheritance can often feel like a double-edged sword. Learn how to manage both the emotional and financial toll of an inheritance. Inheritances are complicated. While the financial windfall opens up new possibilities, it also brings forth emotional and financial complexities that need careful navigation. In fact, while emotions and grief are high, it’s unwise to make any major financial moves. Instead, take time for bereavement before moving forward with any critical decisions with your inheritance. When you're ready, consider these steps to navigate what to do next: Step 1: Take a Breath and Avoid Spending as a Coping Mechanism Losing a loved one and inheriting money is deeply complicated, with feelings ranging from grief to excitement. Before diving into financial decisions, take some time to process your feelings. Seek support from friends, family, or even a counselor if needed. Understanding and managing your emotions is crucial for making clear-headed decisions about your financial future. While you grieve, consider placing your funds in a high-yield savings account until the emotional dust settles. Avoid impulsive purchases as a way to cope. According to Dennis McNamara at wHealth Advisors, "In the fog of grief, I've witnessed some individuals make impulsive purchases as a temporary form of comfort or escape...which often leads to regret." Step 2: Gather Information and Seek Professional Advice To make informed decisions, gather all relevant information about the inheritance. This includes details about assets, liabilities, and any legal obligations. Consider consulting with a financial advisor, tax professional, and estate planning attorney. These experts can guide you through the complexities of managing inherited wealth, helping you maximize its potential while minimizing tax implications. Justin Donald at Lifestyle Investor agrees--noting, “One mistake I’ve noticed is that people don’t hire a financial adviser. If someone who doesn’t have an advanced understanding of financial management inherits money, it’s a good idea to hire someone to help manage it wisely. A financial adviser can help people make the most out of inheritance, as well as save them the time and stress of managing it alone.” Step 3: Create a Comprehensive Financial Plan Developing a solid financial plan is essential for long-term wealth management. Set clear goals, such as debt repayment, investment strategies, and estate planning. Consider factors like your lifestyle, risk tolerance, and future financial needs. A well-thought-out plan provides a roadmap for making sound financial decisions and ensures the longevity of your inheritance. For example, most people simply retain inherited assets in the form they receive them. If it was a mutual fund, they keep it as is; or they receive art or antiques, they simple store it. When capital passes from one hand to another, it's key to understand the nature and intent of those proceeds. What was the intent of the inheritance? Was a particular antique handed down as a family heirloom or intended to support the beneficiary's financial goals? Or was an investment tailored to fit a specific risk appetite of the benefactor that doesn't align with with the beneficiary's investment strategy? Ensure you're asking the right questions, determine its best use and deploy it accordingly. Step 4: Pay Off High-Interest Debts or Diversify Investments Many people spend their inheritance on "fun" expenses, such as cars, vacations and other luxury goods. While instantly gratifying, these are purely expenses with little benefit toward your future self. Instead, use this inheritance as an investment for the future, such as paying off high-interest debt, setting aside a down payment on a house, opening a brokerage account, or even thinking about continuing education Step 5: Update Your Estate Plan Inherited wealth often involves changes to your estate planning needs. Review and update your will, trust, and beneficiary designations to align with your current circumstances. This ensures that your assets are distributed according to your wishes and minimizes potential disputes among heirs. Conclusion Inheriting money requires careful consideration and planning. By addressing both the emotional and financial aspects of your windfall, you can navigate this process thoughtfully. Seek professional advice, create a comprehensive financial plan, and make strategic decisions that align with your goals. With a methodical approach, you can turn your inheritance into a lasting windfall for yourself and future generations.

The lifetime expense of marriage, two children, homes, healthcare, cars, and education is $3.5M--more than what most earn in a lifetime According to Investopedia, the American Dream now costs $3,455,305—the estimated lifetime cost of common milestones including marriage, two children, homes, healthcare, cars, and education. That staggering amount certainly puts a hard number to a sentiment many people have felt in recent years--that the American Dream is less and less realistic of a goal. Is The American Dream Over? For decades, people were sold on the idea that anyone could achieve the American Dream. There was an optimistic view that anyone—regardless of their background—could move up if they applied themselves and worked hard. However, a recent survey by the Wall Street Journal and the National Opinion Research Center found that only 36% of voters said the American Dream “still holds true,” down from the 53% who believed in U.S. prospects in a 2012 edition of the survey and 48% in 2016. This low confidence in the American Dream is related to rising housing costs, high inflation, burdensome student loans, and record-high credit card debt. As a result, many Americans have delayed major aspirational milestones and purchases, like buying a home, getting married, and having kids. The American Dream Now Costs $3,455,305 While costs are vary state-by-state, here is a breakdown of the lifetime costs of marriage, two children, homes, healthcare, cars: Source: Peterson-KFF Health System Tracker, USDA Expenditures on Children by Families, iSeeCars Study, National Center for Education Statistics, The Knot 2022 Real Weddings Study, Zillow, Synchrony Lifetime of Care Study, U.S. Census, CDC, PolicyGenius Can You Afford the American Dream? Stacy Mastrolia, associate professor of accounting at Bucknell University in Pennsylvania, said she’s not sure if the American dream exists anymore. “If that is the American dream — two parents, two kids, owning a house somewhere — then the average American family needs to be better employed,” she said. Many Americans would agree that sentiment. Less than half of respondents in a 2022 Gallup poll said they think today’s youth will have a better life than their parents — an 18% decline since 2019. “This is the current situation — the middle class isn’t thriving financially, doing the things that our parents did in terms of working one job or living off of one income,” Mastrolia said.

Building long-term wealth means making smart decisions with your finances, regardless of how high your income is 1. Splurging on Luxury Items Just because you may have enough in your checking account to spend on designer apparel, expensive watches, or luxury cars doesn't mean it's a good idea. As many people start to earn a higher income, they start to ignore their budgets and fall prey to lifestyle inflation. As a result of life style inflation, people end up spending at the expense of saving or investing. Before you know it, you've diluted your wealth instead of growing it. “Buying luxury items can be a significant drain on your finances,” said Ryan Cullen, co-founder and CEO of Cullen Cioffi Capital Management. Instead, build your wealth by investing in assets, like stocks or real estate. 2. Gravitating toward Risky Investments One of the biggest mistakes higher earners make is believing they’re better investors than everyone else. This overconfidence bias can lead to risky investment decisions that can sometimes lead to huge losses and even financial ruin. For example, take the meme-stock boon or the cryptocurrency rush in 2021. Millions of investors created brokerage accounts to capitalize on a runup in prices. However, if they got in or sold at the wrong time, it could have cost them significantly. 3. Assuming a High Income is a Given Many people with high incomes assume that they'll always earn one. However, in the U.S., income typically peak for people in their 40s and 50s--and even go down from there. It doesn’t mean you’ll suddenly go from making a high income to a low one. But it does mean you need to take advantage of your peak earning years by managing their spending wisely and making smart investments. Too many high earners fail to do this. Another risk is income loss due to layoffs or unemployment. Regardless of how much you earn, we're all susceptible to a sudden job loss. In fact, Americans earning six figures lose their employment at three times the rate of low-income workers, according to Bank of America. 4. Neglecting Tax Implications Building wealth through a high income doesn’t do much good if you're not minimizing your tax liability through prudent tax planning and strategizing. “Even the affluent can overlook the tax implications of their financial decisions,” Jake Claver, founder of the wealth management firm Digital Ascension Group, told GOBankingRates in an interview earlier this year. “From selling investments at the wrong time to not leveraging tax-advantaged accounts, these oversights can erode their wealth.” 5. Investing in Overpriced Financial Products Financial products like annuities, whole life insurance or high-fee mutual funds may promise high returns, but they often come with significant fees. If you want to grow your wealth, consider low-cost index funds or exchange-traded funds (ETFs) instead. Not only are the fees lower, but ETFs typically provide strong diversification, tax efficiency, and lower volatility.

In the next five years, more than 4 out of 10 high school students in the U.S. will be enrolled in high schools where a personal finance course will be required before graduating. Since 2013, there has been a significant increase in the number of states requiring students to take a personal finance course before graduation, according to a report from Champlain College. “Once you graduate from high school, not a day will go by that you don’t think about money, how to make it, how to spend it, how to save it. You will be thinking about this until the day you die,” said John Pelletier, director of Champlain College’s Center for Financial Literacy. The surge in personal finance courses is partly a response to the pandemic, which focused attention on difficult household finances and growing income inequality. Higher inflation and the resumption of student loan payments has also renewed worries about low financial literacy in the U.S. In the next five years, more than 4 out of 10 high school students in the U.S. will be enrolled in high schools where a personal finance course will be required before graduating. By 2028, when new laws and policy changes are fully implemented, 23 states are projected to require high students to have taken a personal finance course before graduation. Studies show personal finance education can make a significant difference in financial behaviors for many teenagers and adults. According to Carly Urban, a professor of economics at Montana State University who studies financial literacy, financial instruction can improve credit scores, lower loan delinquency rates, and reduce the use of risky services like payday lending. “We are currently collecting signatures in support of financial education for all high schoolers,” said Tim Ranzetta, co-founder of Next Gen Personal Finance, a financial literacy advocacy organization. “We are far outpacing our estimates, demonstrating what we all inherently know: that personal finance is an impactful and easy-to-implement course with strong demand from both students, parents and the general public.”

Spending anxiety is real, so take some of the pressure off yourself and your loved ones by opting for gifts that matter The holiday season is synonymous with joy, togetherness, and generosity. However, for many, it also comes with a side of anxiety, especially when it comes to managing the budgets for gift-giving. The pressure to find the perfect presents for friends and family can lead to worry about overspending. In this guide, we'll explore effective strategies to manage anxiety around holiday spending and provide practical tips on budgeting for gifts without sacrificing the festive spirit. Set Realistic Expectations Before diving into your holiday shopping list, take a moment to set realistic expectations. Understand that the true value of a gift lies in the thought behind it rather than the price tag. Communicate with friends and family about setting reasonable spending limits to alleviate the pressure for extravagant gifts. Create a Comprehensive Gift List Start by listing all the people you want to buy gifts for, from family and friends to coworkers and neighbors. This will help you visualize the scope of your gift-giving and prevent last-minute panic purchases, where you might accidentally overspend. Consider grouping people into categories and assigning a budget to each category. Establish a Budget Determine how much you can realistically afford to spend on holiday gifts without compromising your finances. Be honest with yourself about your financial situation and set a firm budget. This will serve as a guide to prevent impulse purchases and keep your spending in check. Take Advantage of Deals and Discounts Keep an eye out for sales, promotions, and discounts both online and in-store. Many retailers offer special deals during the holiday season, so plan your shopping accordingly. Utilize cashback and rewards programs to get the most value out of your purchases. Consider DIY and Other Alternatives Not every meaningful gift comes with a hefty price tag. Consider creating personalized, do-it-yourself gifts or opting for experiences instead of physical items. According to Bill McKibben, the author of “Hundred Dollar Holiday: The Case for a More Joyful Christmas,” his family practices the $100 holiday challenge. With this challenge, his family tries to only spend $100. “Give things that are rare — time, attention, memory, whimsy,” McKibben writes. “We run short on these things in our lives, even as we have an endless supply of software, hardware, ready-to-wear.” Grandparents can record themselves reading their grandchildren’s favorite children’s books. Teenagers can give parents coupons for pet-sitting, housecleaning, or baby-sitting. Siblings can gift each other handmade cards with heartfelt messages. Parents can give children thrifted toys or clothing. Grandchildren can give grandparents a calendar with each month of family photos. Track Your Spending Keep a close eye on your expenditures throughout the holiday season. Use budgeting apps or tools to track your spending and ensure you stay within your allocated budget. Regularly reviewing your financial progress will help you make necessary adjustments and avoid any unpleasant surprises. Communicate Openly If financial constraints are particularly tight this year, don't hesitate to communicate openly with your loved ones. Most people would appreciate honesty and understanding rather than receiving a gift that puts undue strain on your budget. Suggest alternative ways to celebrate, such as a potluck dinner or a holiday movie night. You can also set a dollar limit of $10 per person or decide to only buy gifts for the children. Setting expectations now can make everyone relieved about gift-giving without worrying about giving or receiving an expensive present. Conclusion The holiday season is a time to celebrate and express gratitude, and it's essential to approach gift-giving with balance. By setting realistic expectations, establishing a budget, and adopting thoughtful strategies, you can navigate the holiday shopping season with confidence and joy.

Don't stress over pricey gifts this year. Try these creative and thoughtful alternatives this season instead! The holiday season is a time for joy, love, and giving. However, the pressure to find the perfect gift can often lead to anxiety and overspending. This year, let's shift our focus from expensive presents to thoughtful, creative gestures that don't break the bank. Homecooked Delights A homecooked treat is a classic way to show you care, and it doesn't have to be extravagant. Put together a basket of homemade cookies, a jar of your signature pasta sauce, or a mix for hot cocoa. Personalize it with a handwritten recipe card and some festive packaging. This not only saves you money but adds a personal touch that store-bought gifts often lack. Albums and Scrapbooks Create a trip down memory lane by compiling a photo album of nostalgic moments shared with your loved ones. You can either print photos and put together a scrapbook, or create a digital photo album online with services like Canva. Although it seems simple, sentimental gifts like this are always simple but sweet. Skill-Sharing Vouchers Share your talents and skills by creating custom "skill-sharing" coupons. Whether you're a whiz in the kitchen, an expert at organizing, or a tech-savvy individual, your skills can be a valuable gift. Offer a coupon for a tech tutorial, a cooking class, or assistance with organizing a space. It's a unique and personalized gift that doesn't cost a dime. Unsure if you have a giftable skill? Consider giving your time to friends and family, by creating personalized gift vouchers for services that others will truly appreciate. For instance, offer a few hours of dog-sitting to friends or family with pets; or arrange a wine and Netflix night for friends. Below are a few templates for gift vouchers for you to download and send this holiday season: Nature-Inspired Gifts Create a personalized terrarium with small plants or succulents, propagate one of your plants, or gather pinecones and evergreen branches to make a festive centerpiece or wreath. These nature-inspired gifts not only reflect the season but also add a touch of tranquility to the space of your friends and family. Customized Playlists In the age of Spotify, a carefully curated playlist can be a fun and inexpensive gift. Craft a playlist that suits the taste of your friends or family. Include songs that hold special memories or that you believe they'll enjoy. Pair it with a handwritten note explaining why each song made the cut. Conclusion Whether it's the gift of time, a homemade treat, or a shared skill, these thoughtful gestures leave a lasting impact. Don't be afraid to explore your creativity and show your loved ones that the most valuable gifts don't always come with a hefty price tag.

These financial pros can't turn back time, but that doesn't mean you can't learn from their mistakes and lessons 1. Save for retirement as soon as you can “I wish someone told me about the importance of saving for retirement sooner. Even if it’s not through a 401(k), an IRA is always another great alternative. Many people wait for the opportunity to utilize an employer-sponsored 401(k). While it might be a little easier to set one up through an employer, considering an IRA might be a sound plan if people want to start saving sooner than that.” — Angela Ruth, Due 2. Take a holistic view of your financial health “Evaluate your financial health holistically and for the long term. It’s easy to focus on your near-term future or become hyper-focused on one aspect of your financial journey, such as Roth IRA contributions and performance. People often overlook less obvious but equally important factors, such as their tax, legal or insurance policies. And of course, it’s OK to ask for help from a trusted source.” — H. Adam Holt, Asset-Map 3. Know how much your skills are worth “My advice is universal, but I want to especially advise women: Do not undervalue yourself when negotiating your salary early in your career. When I interview women and men for positions, women typically will undervalue their skill set and be willing to accept a lower starting wage. That one strategic error will set the pace of their earnings for years to come. It is a very costly financial mistake.” — Elizabeth Graham, Riggs Asset Management Co., Inc. 4. Understand what a fund's "average growth" means “The term ‘average growth’ did not mean what I thought it did. So many funds advertise YY% average growth for the last XX years. The market might have grown an average of YY a year over the previous 100 years, but that does not mean the value of your portfolio increases YY every year — oops. It took me a while to get over that misconception with my investments. That was an expensive lesson.” — Deborah W. Ellis, Cogent Independent Advisors, Inc. 5. Leverage tax diversification to manage your tax bracket “I wish I knew about the importance of tax diversification. Yes, it is important to take advantage of tax deductions and tax credits to lower your tax liability today, but it is equally important to include tax-free accounts and taxable accounts to be able to proactively manage your tax bracket.” — Marguerita Cheng, Blue Ocean Global Wealth Originally published by Kiplinger Advisor Collective

Navigating the Downsides of the Digital Nomad Lifestyle The digital nomad lifestyle has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many people opting for a location-independent career that allows them to work from anywhere in the world. Since lots of areas have a lower cost of living than the United States, a digital nomad lifestyle could help you boost your savings account too. While the idea of traveling and working simultaneously may sound like a dream come true, it's essential to acknowledge that the digital nomad lifestyle comes with its fair share of challenges. In this post, we will explore the downsides of being a digital nomad and shed light on the less glamorous aspects that are often overlooked. Isolation and Loneliness One of the most significant downsides of the digital nomad lifestyle is the potential for isolation and loneliness. Constantly changing locations and living out of a suitcase can make it challenging to establish meaningful connections with others. The lack of a stable social circle and the transient nature of relationships can take a toll on one's mental health, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation. Unpredictable Work Environments While the allure of working from exotic locations is undeniable, the reality is that the quality of work environments can vary significantly. Digital nomads often find themselves working in crowded cafes, noisy co-working spaces, or cramped hotel rooms and hostels. Dealing with unreliable internet connections and cramped spaces can definitely impact your productivity and job performance. Financial Insecurity Maintaining a steady income as a digital nomad can be challenging, especially for those who rely on freelance or contract work. The lack of job security and benefits such as health insurance can create financial stress. Additionally, the cost of constantly moving from one destination to another, coupled with unexpected expenses, can strain a digital nomad's budget. Time Zone Challenges Working across multiple time zones is a common reality for digital nomads, especially if their clients or team members are based in different parts of the world. While this flexibility can be advantageous, it can also lead to disrupted sleep patterns, difficulties in scheduling meetings, and a constant need to adjust to different time zones, contributing to fatigue and burnout. Lack of Routine and Stability The absence of a consistent routine and a stable living environment can be disorienting for some digital nomads. The constant need to adapt to new cultures, navigate unfamiliar surroundings, and deal with logistical challenges can be mentally exhausting. This lack of stability can impact work-life balance and make it challenging to maintain healthy habits. Conclusion While the digital nomad lifestyle offers the freedom to explore the world while earning a living, it's crucial to be aware of its downsides. Isolation, unpredictable work environments, financial insecurity, time zone challenges, and the lack of routine and stability are all factors that can contribute to the complexities of this lifestyle. Aspiring digital nomads should carefully weigh the pros and cons, considering their personal preferences and priorities, before embarking on this unique journey. Ultimately, finding a balance that works for each individual is key to making the most of the digital nomad lifestyle while mitigating its inherent challenges.