The Basics of Social Security Retirement Benefits
Financial Planning: Helping You See the Big Picture
Newsletters
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HOT TOPIC: The Shutdown is Over: What Now?
The longest government shutdown in U.S. history ended on November 12, 2025. This article looks at the bill that ended the shutdown, issues that are unresolved, and estimates of the economic impact.
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Location, Location, Location: The Premium Parents Pay for Top Schools
Homes in neighborhoods with access to top schools tend to cost significantly more than a typical home in the surrounding area.
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Media Trends: Where Have All the Readers Gone?
The majority of Americans read few books over the last year, while the number of weekly podcast listeners has been rising.
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Key Retirement and Tax Numbers for 2026
This article provides 2026 contribution limits for retirement plans and various tax deduction, exclusion, exemption, and threshold amounts.
Calculators
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Taxable Equivalent Yield
Calculate the rate of return you would have to receive from a taxable investment to realize an equivalent tax-exempt yield.
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Estate Taxes
Use this calculator to estimate the federal estate taxes that could be due on your estate after you die.
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Retirement Plan Early Distribution
Estimate how much would remain after paying income taxes and penalties if you took an early distribution from a retirement plan.
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Life Expectancy
Knowing your likely life expectancy is an important factor in making long-term financial plans.