Investment fraud is on the rise. Here’s how to protect yourself
South_agency | E+ | Getty Images Consumers lost $5.7 billion to investment scams in 2024 — more than in any other type of fraud and up 24% from 2023, according to new data from the Federal Trade Commission. Investment scams generally involve claims that a consumer will get big returns by investing in a hot […]
How to price your home to sell in 2025
Lifestylevisuals | E+ | Getty Images Selling a house involves much more than just putting up a “for sale” sign. In addition to some key things to consider — like knowing market conditions, preparing your home for showings and deciding whether to work with a real estate agent — it’s important to get the right […]
Here’s who qualifies and how to claim it
Coroimage | Moment | Getty Images If you worked remotely in 2024, you may be eyeing the home office deduction. However, qualifying for the tax break may be harder than you expect, experts say. Only 7% of companies allowed fully remote work in 2024, down from 21% in 2023, according to a ZipRecruiter survey that […]
Here’s how to get a faster tax refund this season, experts say
Andreswd | E+ | Getty Images It’s official: Tax season is open for individual filers and the IRS has started to process 2024 tax returns. If you’re expecting a refund, there are key things to know, according to tax experts. “There are some very simple tips to get the fastest refund possible,” said Mark Steber, […]
How to know if a rental listing is a scam, fraud experts say
Eleganza | E+ | Getty Images It’s exciting to find a new place to rent in your neighborhood or in a new city. That is, of course, unless you get duped. In so-called rental listing scams, scammers will make up listings that aren’t available for rent or simply do not exist in order to fraudulently […]
There’s a big inherited IRA change in 2025. How to avoid a penalty
Greg Hinsdale | The Image Bank | Getty Images Inheriting an individual retirement account is a windfall for many investors. However, a lesser-known change for 2025 could trigger a costly surprise penalty, financial experts say. Starting in 2025, certain heirs with inherited IRAs must take yearly required withdrawals while emptying accounts over 10 years, known […]
Here’s how to maximize your 401(k) plan for 2025 with higher limits
Lordhenrivoton | E+ | Getty Images If you’re eager to save more for retirement, you could be overlooking ways to maximize your 401(k) plan, including key changes for 2025. Some 40% of Americans are behind on retirement planning and savings, according to a CNBC poll conducted by SurveyMonkey, which polled 6,657 U.S. adults in August. […]
Here’s how to pay for taxes on your Roth IRA conversion, advisors say
Srdjanpav | E+ | Getty Images More from FA Playbook: Here’s a look at other stories impacting the financial advisor business. When a Roth conversion is completed, you’ll owe regular income taxes on the converted balance, based on your current-year taxable income. Ideally, you’re “managing the tax bracket,” said CFP Jim Guarino, managing director at […]
The stakes on tax policy are high as the election nears. Here’s how to prepare
Investors have a close eye on the Nov. 5 presidential election, but Congressional contests deserve attention — as they could shape tax policy and the next steps investors take to prepare. “Whatever happens with the election next week, it’s still going to take time for some significant tax law to come through,” said Stephen Bigge, […]
How to keep your portfolio steady in volatile times as the election approaches
The election is just a week away – and markets may be about to enter a rocky period – but investors can take a few steps to ensure their portfolios are ready to handle potential shocks. The S & P 500 is toting a 1.3% gain in October, but it’s up more than 22% in […]