Understanding the average and median 401(k) balance by age helps you see where you really stand. Vanguard’s data shows a wide gap between the average balance of $148,153 and the median of $38,176, revealing how uneven retirement readiness is. Use these benchmarks to evaluate your savings progress. 401(k) Benchmarks by Age When it comes… Continue reading 401(k) Balances by Age: Where Do You Stand?
As 2025 wraps up, now may be the perfect time to tighten up your finances and set yourself up for a stronger year ahead. These 12 year-end money moves may help you save more, lower your tax bill, and start 2026 with real financial momentum. #1 Max Out Your 401(k) or Increase December Contributions… Continue reading 12 Financial Moves to Start 2026 Strong
Holiday spending is rising sharply in 2025, with shoppers planning to spend more on gifts and online purchases than last year. This guide shares 8 steps to help you avoid holiday debt, set clear expectations, create a realistic budget, shop smarter, and stay in control of your finances this season. Holiday Spending Is Surging… Continue reading How to Avoid Holiday Debt: 8 Steps to Stay on Budget
Updated: November 2025 According to the IRS (Notice 2025-67, released November 13, 2025), the 401(k) contribution limit will rise to $24,500 for 2026, up $1,000 from 2025, while the IRA contribution limit increases to $7,500 plus a $1,100 catch-up for savers age 50 and older.[1] These cost-of-living adjustments, part of the SECURE 2.0 Act updates,… Continue reading Retirement 401(k) and IRA Contribution Limits for 2026
The final weeks of the year are more than just holiday prep and family gatherings. They’re also your last chance to make financial moves before year-end that could boost your retirement savings, lower your tax bill, and set you up for a stronger 2026. Whether you’re trying to catch up, get organized, or make the… Continue reading 7 Smart Money Moves to Make before Year-End
If you’re hoping the 2026 Social Security COLA will help ease the pressure of rising costs, don’t get your hopes up. The 2026 increase is only 2.8%.¹ With inflation, Medicare premiums, and everyday expenses climbing faster, it won’t go far. In this post, we’ll help break down what the new COLA really means, why it… Continue reading Why the 2026 Social Security COLA Increase Won’t Be Enough
When times get tough, borrowing from your 401(k) may seem like a smart solution. After all, it’s your money, right? But here’s the catch: If you don’t follow the 401(k) loan repayment rules, you could end up facing serious tax bills and penalties, and possibly hurt your retirement future. Let’s break down what really happens… Continue reading 401(k) Loan Repayment Rules: What Happens If You Default?
After a strong third quarter and a better-than-expected September, investors are asking, “How much longer can this last?” In his latest market update, Mark Sorensen, CEO and Chief Investment Officer of Royal Fund Management, explains why he believes the current bull run still has room to grow. While talk of bubbles and overvaluation fills the… Continue reading Why a Market Correction Could Be Good News for Investors
As Q4 begins, now is the time to review your 401(k) plan and make sure your retirement strategy is on track. Waiting until December often means scrambling or missing out entirely. But acting now can allow you to adjust contributions, rebalance your portfolio, and make proactive changes that may benefit you both at tax time… Continue reading Get Serious about Your 401(k) Strategy This Q4
If you’re 50 or older and planning to make catch-up contributions to your 401(k), big changes are on the way – especially if you’re a higher-income earner. The IRS recently issued final regulations under the SECURE 2.0 Act, and they clarify exactly how these contributions must be handled starting in 2026. Here’s a breakdown of… Continue reading IRS Finalizes Rules on 401(k) Catch-Up Contributions
