Many parents enter the college planning process with an optimistic outlook, believing they are well-equipped financially to handle the hefty costs ahead. According to recent findings, however, this confidence often proves to be a mirage. Over half of parents felt ready when their child was accepted into college, yet once the tuition bills started rolling
Personal
In 2025, the seemingly unrelenting growth of credit card debt signals a troubling shift in the financial landscape of American households. According to the latest data from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, credit card balances surged by $27 billion in just the second quarter, bringing the total to an astonishing $1.21 trillion —
Moneyed Americans, especially those in affluent tax brackets, often view legislative adjustments like the SALT cap increase as a victory, a sign of the government finally loosening its grip on hardworking taxpayers. However, beneath the surface, these reforms mask a more insidious reality. While the headline number might suggest relief—raising the SALT deduction cap to
For decades, Southwest Airlines earned a reputation for its straightforward, customer-centric approach—first-come, first-served boarding that fostered a sense of fairness and egalitarianism among travelers. This policy was emblematic of an airline that prioritized simplicity and transparency, aligning with its core identity as a beloved budget carrier. However, recent developments reveal a troubling departure from these
In today’s unpredictable economic landscape, the importance of building a robust emergency fund cannot be overstated. Yet, despite widespread awareness, a significant segment of workers—particularly hourly employees—continues to operate without this financial safety net. This deficiency not only jeopardizes immediate financial stability but also undermines long-term retirement security, revealing a systemic flaw in personal financial
Disability is a relentless, often invisible struggle that impacts millions of Americans, yet society’s response remains painfully inadequate. The story of Brandon Dickerson, a man who suffered a catastrophic brain aneurysm, exemplifies this harsh truth. At just 34, Brandon’s life was irrevocably altered, leaving him with severe cognitive and speech impairments. His sister, Geneva, now
For more than a decade, Katy Punch dedicated herself to her role as a librarian in North Carolina, embracing a career rooted in public service and education. Her commitment qualifies her for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, a policy designed to give relief to those who serve the public good. But beyond the
For decades, the American dream has been synonymous with climbing the income ladder, reaching for that elusive threshold where money supposedly brings happiness and security. Yet, recent data and expert insights reveal a startling paradox: a significant portion of high earners, the so-called “HENRYs,” find themselves far from truly rich, entangled in financial struggles that
For countless Americans, student loan forgiveness symbolizes relief—a beacon of hope in a sea of financial hardship. Yet, beneath the veneer of liberation lies a shadow that many fail to see: the looming threat of unexpected tax bills. The recent legislative move, often celebrated as a shift toward progressive policy, masks a perilous reality. While
In the ongoing debate over economic reform, the discussion around capital gains taxes on home sales often leans toward short-term political gains rather than the broader implications for society. President Trump’s consideration of eliminating taxes on primary residence sales appears to be a populist move aimed at stimulating the housing market. However, beneath this superficial