by Kent McDillContributorServe in the U.S. military, get a college degree afterward. That’s long been the promise of the government and recent changes to make this benefit last a lifetime will continue under the Forever GI Bill.The bill now provides more money for qualifying veterans that study STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) subjects.The Forever GI Bill expanded the reach of the 1944 GI Bill (which was also expanded in 2001
by Rachel Christian, CEPF®, Carson KohlerAmericans donate billions of dollars each year to nonprofits — and hundreds of thousands recently to pro-life and pro-choice organizations. That money is essential to helping those nonprofits carry out their missions.But how do you know that money will be used the way you want?If you’re donating money to a charity, take a minute to make sure you know where your money is going first.
Real Answers for Life’s Money Challengesby Robin Hartill, CFP®Senior EditorMy partner and I have been together for 10 years. During that time, we have both had many mental and emotional struggles. It came out that he experienced sexual trauma as a child, and during that time he also had a close childhood friend die from a drug overdose. I had struggles of my own and got sober during that time. Now,
by Robin Hartill, CFP®Senior EditorA recession can wreak havoc on your finances. So it’s understandable if you’re worried by recent headlines. Economists are increasingly pessimistic, with those polled for Bankrate’s Second-Quarter Economic Indicator putting the odds of a recession at 52% in the next 12 to 18 months.If you’re worried about a recession, there are steps you can take to safeguard your money. But you’re probably facing some tough choices
by Mike BrassfieldSenior WriterDo you ever feel the whole financial system is conspiring against you?They don’t make it easy, do they? They make managing your money feel like tiptoeing across a tightrope. Take your eye off the ball for a second and you’ll fall into a pit of endless fees — overdrafts, ATM fees, dipping below daily minimums, ugh.What if there was a financial app that was totally on your
by Nicole Dow, Michael Archambault Let’s say it — shopping online is a blast. With only a few clicks or taps, your favorite items can show up at your door the next day. But, as fun as online shopping may be, it can certainly pull on your wallet. That is, of course, if you aren’t using a Chrome extension to help you save. From alerting you to price drops to
by Jenna Limbach, Adam Hardy If you’re looking to make some extra money, side gigs like babysitting and Uber are great options, but they aren’t the only ones. Whether the pandemic quarantine ignited a love of baking or the excitement of shopping in stores again hasn’t worn off, you can find ways to turn your interests into paying opportunities. Online platforms such as Facebook Marketplace, Etsy and Instagram as well
by Matt Reinstetle, Rachel Christian, CEPF®It’s the night before your big job interview. You’ve done your due diligence researching the company, the position and the people conducting the interview. You’re ready.But how will you respond when the hiring manager asks, “Do you have any questions for me?”This part of the job interview is a fantastic opportunity to make a lasting impression that sets you apart from other candidates.You should come
by JoEllen SchilkeContributorGetting a college degree is an expensive proposition. Students can get a lot out of the college experience, and one of the returns for the cost is hopefully a decent job.But the college major has a lot to do with getting a good-paying job. Of course, everyone has to pick the course of study that suits them but it might help to know about the best college majors
by Veronica MatthewsContributor Don’t have $1,000 to spend on an 18-inch vintage nautical pendant light or $4,000 for a textured linen weave chaise lounge? Such mind-bending prices may make you think you have no business stepping foot inside a Restoration Hardware gallery. But if you know a few hacks and tips, you can experience the thrill of bringing home a perfect piece from a cult favorite store, and still pay
