How to use the ‘Bucket Strategy’ to optimize your retirement savings

You’ve finally reached the retirement date that’s been circled on the calendar for the past 5 years. You’ve done everything you’re supposed to do and have accrued a nice pension, a plan for social security, and a healthy balance in your Thrift Savings Plan, or other investment accounts. Maybe you’ve even done some tax planning […]

How to decide on your retirement corpus

I work in the IT industry and have plans to retire in the next 10 years. I have already planned for my daughter’s education expenses and kept ₹50 lakh aside for this. At present, this amount looks good based on her education plans. I have invested in two properties that are valued at ₹1.2 crore […]

How much money Americans in their 40s have in their 401(k)s

If you’re in your 40s and have over $40,000 saved for retirement, you’re ahead of most people in your age bracket. However, you may need to take some proactive steps in order to retire comfortably. The median 401(k) balance for Americans ages 40 to 49 is $38,600 as of the fourth quarter of 2023, according […]

EPF: How to know your UAN? A step-by-step guide

The Universal Account Number (UAN) is the identity number for all EPFO (Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation) subscribers which works like PAN for income tax payers. It works like a common identification ID for EPF subscribers who may have multiple employers in quick succession. This effectively means subscribers can have numerous member IDs given by as many […]

How to save over $1 million for retirement in your 30s

If you’re in your 30s and don’t have much saved for retirement, you’re not alone. As of the fourth quarter of 2023, the median 401(k) balance for account holders in their 30s was around $20,400, according to data from Fidelity Investments, the nation’s largest 401(k) provider. That’s a far cry from the $1.46 million the […]

How to check your EPF account balance? A step-by-step guide

The Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) stands as an excellent avenue for retirement savings in India. It promotes consistent savings by involving contributions from both employees and employers. The automatic deduction from your salary for EPF renders it an exceedingly convenient method for retirement savings. Below is an outline of the contribution framework: Employee’s contribution: Typically, […]

How to avoid the ‘survivor’s penalty’ before a spouse passes

Jessie Casson | Digitalvision | Getty Images It’s hard to lose a spouse, and a costly surprise makes it even more difficult, especially for older women — higher taxes. But financial experts say there are several ways to prepare. In 2022, there was a 5.4-year life expectancy gap between U.S. sexes, according to data from […]

The Budgetnista Tiffany Aliche: How to start budgeting

A young woman in her early 20s riding a chopper cycle. Karan Kapoor | The Image Bank | Getty Images Having a strong budget can help you build financial wellness. “A budget is a picture of what your money is doing,” Tiffany Aliche, also known as The Budgetnista, told CNBC during a Women & Wealth […]

How to manage your anticipated salary appraisals?

This season marks the period when employers are actively evaluating their employees’ performance before determining their respective appraisals. The appraisal review often results in a salary increase for many, creating opportunities for financial growth. Achieving a salary increase is a significant milestone, but it’s crucial to employ a strategic approach in utilizing those extra funds. […]

How to reduce health-care costs during Medicare Advantage open enrollment

Andreswd | E+ | Getty Images Certain retirees can now change their health coverage during Medicare Advantage open enrollment, which runs until March 31. Medicare Advantage is health coverage provided through private companies that are paid by Medicare to cover your benefits. If you’re already on a Medicare Advantage plan, you can take advantage of […]