How to Invest Your First $1,000: A Beginner’s Roadmap

Man sitting in a chair with money by him around bank buildings to simulate investing

Investing your first $1,000 is an exciting milestone. While $1,000 may not seem life-changing, it can be the start of something big. Even a modest sum can grow substantially over time thanks to compounding, and today it’s easier than ever for new investors to get started. Before diving in, however, make sure your financial bases […]

Side Hustles That Actually Pay: 5 Ideas to Start This Weekend

Man sitting at his desk working on his computer making money

Finding a side hustle that works for you isn’t just about making a little extra cash; it’s about choosing something sustainable, enjoyable, and flexible enough to fit around your life. The good news is that you don’t need months of preparation to get started. The five ideas below are proven ways to earn real money, […]

How to Talk to Your Teenagers About Money Management

Parents talking to a teenager about money

Teaching teenagers about money is more important than ever. Surveys show that 88% of parents want their kids to become financially independent, yet many feel awkward bringing it up. Meanwhile, teens themselves are under pressure: one study found that over 60% of young people believe that having more money would make them happier, and many […]

5 Smart Ways to Save for Your Child’s Education

Couple with kids and a piggy bank in front signifying savings

Starting to save early, even with small amounts, allows parents to harness compound interest over many years. Saving for a child’s college education is one of the biggest financial goals many U.S. families face. College costs keep rising – for the 2024-2025 school year, the average annual cost of a four-year private university is about […]

Is Cutting Cable Still Worth It in 2025?

Woman sitting in front of her TV in the living room

Inflation has continued to rise dramatically over the last few years, prompting many people to seek new ways to save. Previously, one of the most popular pieces of advice was to cut your cable. If you’re one of the millions of Americans who pay for video streaming services, you probably don’t need cable, too, right? […]

What to Know Before Hiring a Financial Advisor

Man on his computer looking at financial reports

When it comes to managing your money, the decisions you make today can have a lasting impact on your future. Whether you’re planning for retirement, navigating a major life event or simply looking to grow your wealth, hiring a financial advisor can be a smart move. However, not all advisors are created equal, and choosing […]

How to Build a Simple Three-Fund Portfolio for Beginners

Woman on her computer looking at different investment options with printed out graphs behind her

Many people who want to start investing hold themselves back due to a lack of financial knowledge and uncertainty over navigating the complexities of investments. There’s no shortage of information out there giving advice on how to start and which stocks to choose, but combing through all of that information to choose the approach that […]

Roth IRA vs. Traditional IRA: What’s Best for Your Tax Strategy?

Man looking at different spreadsheets for investment

Planning for retirement can feel overwhelming, but selecting the right Individual Retirement Account (IRA) is a good place to start. Most people choose between two main options: a Roth IRA and a Traditional IRA. Both offer savings that support your long-term financial health, as well as significant tax advantages. A Traditional IRA provides a tax […]

How Much Should You Really Spend on Rent or a Mortgage?

Woman standing in front of a house with dollar signs above it

Housing is likely the biggest expense in your monthly budget. Understanding your finances and determining the percentage of your income to allocate for rent or mortgage costs is essential for maintaining healthy finances. This guide will help you figure out how much you can afford.  How Much Of My Income Should Go Towards Housing Costs? […]

What is Dollar Cost Averaging?

Man on his computer with multiple screens looking at the stock market

Does investing in an ever-changing and complex market cause you anxiety? You’re not alone. Many new investors struggle with the same concern: “What if I invest all my money right before the market drops?” This fear keeps countless potential investors on the sidelines, causing them to miss out on potential opportunities for growth.  Enter dollar-cost […]