About 7% of U.S. companies offered unlimited paid time off (PTO) as an employee benefit in 2024, up from just 1% in 2014.1 When companies adopt unlimited PTO policies, there is no specific cap on the number of paid vacation and/or sick days employees can take, although requests for time off are typically subject to a […]
Three Ways to Help Build Financial Resilience
Roller-coaster markets, global events, and unexpected life changes can catch you off guard. Little wonder that you might worry about the potential effects on your financial well-being. Fortunately, you can take steps to build the resilience you need to help handle challenging times and hopefully emerge even stronger. Fortify your foundation Developing a new budget […]
Could Employee Ownership Be Part of Your Succession Plan?
An employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) is a type of qualified retirement plan that enables a business owner to gradually transfer ownership shares to employees. Moreover, establishing an ESOP sets up opportunities for the owner of a closely held business to cash out (in whole or in part) in the future, while keeping the company […]
Life Insurance Might Help During Turbulent Economic Times
During times of economic uncertainty and when the stock market is volatile, life insurance may be a useful tool to consider. Income protection Finances that were intended to provide support for you and your family could take a hit due to stock market volatility. In addition, rising costs of goods and services might eat into […]
How Has SECURE 2.0 Affected 401(k) Plans?
Since its inception in 1980, the 401(k) plan has become a key tool in helping Americans build wealth. In fact, the number of people who have become millionaires through their 401(k) plans reached 537,000 in 2024, a 27% increase from 2023.1 The SECURE 2.0 Act, passed in 2022, introduced new features designed to make 401(k)s even […]
Home Appliance Economics
The prices of major home appliances fell 19.5% over the three years between April 2022 and March 2025. They now cost less than they did ten years ago, despite having lots of convenient new features.1 The flip side is that repair costs for today’s complicated appliances have gone through the roof. Plus, many homeowners are convinced […]
Staycations Are About More Than Saving Money
In March 2025, 61% of respondents to a travel-related survey expressed concern that a recession might impact their vacation plans. The same percentage were planning a staycation instead.1 Common during the pandemic when air travel and large crowds were not viable options, staycations involve spending your vacation at or near home. While they may be […]
Avoiding Probate with a TOD Deed and TOD Account
If you want to leave your home to your children or other heirs and keep the property out of the costly and time-consuming probate process, you could place your home in a living trust. Trusts offer numerous advantages, but they incur up-front costs, often have ongoing administrative fees, and involve a complex web of tax […]
Navigating Financial Conversations with Aging Parents
Having a conversation with your parents about their finances can seem like a daunting task. However, it is an essential step in helping to ensure their financial well-being as they get older. Here are some practical tips to help you navigate these discussions. Start the conversation Talking about money can be difficult. However, it’s important […]
Consider Munis for Tax-Free Income
In 2024, the municipal bond market saw record trading for the third consecutive year. New issues also set a record at $508 billion, the first time muni issues exceeded $500 billion. The trend continued through the first quarter of 2025, with trades and new issues both higher than the first quarter of 2024.1 This increased […]
