In recent years, high interest rates have made borrowing challenging but created significant opportunities for savers. Certificates of Deposit (CDs), particularly short-term options, have become a go-to choice for earning competitive returns without tying up money for years. While the Federal Reserve’s recent rate cuts have started to cool returns on CDs, short-term options remain Continue reading
HELOC vs. Home Equity Loan: Making the Right Choice for 2025
As 2025 approaches, tapping into your home equity can be a powerful financial strategy. Whether funding renovations, consolidating debt, or covering major expenses, both Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOCs) and home equity loans offer unique advantages. With evolving economic conditions—such as declining inflation and shifting interest rates—choosing the right option is critical. Let’s explore Continue reading
What’s Ahead for Student Loan Repayments in 2025: Key Changes Borrowers Must Know
As 2025 unfolds, student loan borrowers face significant shifts in repayment policies, forgiveness options, and default collections. With a new administration stepping in, federal strategies surrounding student debt are expected to evolve, impacting millions of Americans. What’s Changing in 2025? 1. Resumption of Defaulted Loan CollectionsAfter a lengthy pause due to the COVID-19 forbearance period Continue reading
Will Social Security Recipients See Extra Money in January 2025? Everything You Need to Know
Starting January 2025, Social Security recipients will see an increase in their monthly benefits, thanks to the annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). This adjustment, designed to help keep payments in line with inflation, has been a cornerstone of Social Security since it was first implemented in 1975. How Much Will Benefits Increase? Keep in mind that Continue reading
New Jersey Resident Snags $1.13 Billion Mega Millions Jackpot: A Win for the History Books
In a thrilling turn of events, a New Jersey resident has come forward to claim the colossal $1.13 billion Mega Millions jackpot drawn in March. The New Jersey Lottery confirmed this week that the winner has officially initiated the process of collecting their life-changing prize. The Winning Ticket: A Stroke of Luck in Neptune Township Continue reading
Capital One Bank Settlement 2024: Payouts, Eligibility, and Key Dates
In 2024, Capital One Bank is resolving major legal disputes with consumers, offering compensation through two significant settlements. These settlements address consumer complaints regarding a 2019 data breach and unfair representment fees. This article breaks down the essential details of the settlements, eligibility criteria, payout timelines, and the potential long-term effects on the financial industry. Continue reading
Claim Up to $2,500 Cash App Class Action Settlement: Check if You are Eligible
If you’ve used Cash App in the past six years, today is your final chance to claim a share of the $15 million class-action settlement. The lawsuit alleges that Cash App and its parent company, Block Inc., were negligent in protecting users’ account information during data breaches in 2022 and 2023. If you experienced unauthorized Continue reading
Lump-Sum Social Security: How Do I Get a Lump Sum from Social Security
If you’ve reached full retirement age and are considering claiming Social Security, you may have the option to receive a lump sum payment for up to six months of retroactive benefits. While this can provide a financial boost, it’s important to understand the trade-offs, as opting for this lump sum will result in a permanently Continue reading
How Do I Get the $16728 Social Security Bonus? A Complete Guide
When it comes to Social Security, many have heard claims of a mysterious $16,728 yearly “bonus.” The truth? This figure isn’t a special payout or bonus retirees can simply claim. Instead, it highlights the strategies you can use to maximize your benefits over a lifetime. The Social Security Administration (SSA) determines your benefit amount using Continue reading
Why You Won’t Receive the $4,873 Maximum Social Security Benefit in 2025: Understanding Benefit Changes
Each year, the Social Security Administration (SSA) adjusts benefits through the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA), ensuring beneficiaries receive a modest increase to counter inflation. For 2025, this adjustment has brought significant changes to the maximum benefits for various Social Security categories. However, while the $4,873 cap from previous years no longer applies, new limits Continue reading