We used to fix things. Then came mass production and making gave way to buying. But something’s shifting. Again. Welcome to the rise of the DIY economy. Here’s a look at what’s driving this shift and how you can participate. The solution is at your fingertips You no longer need a workshop full of specialized…

Money impacts nearly every part of life. Whether you’re just starting your career, running a household, or trying to grow your savings, understanding a few key terms can give you a real advantage. Here are 5 financial terms that you should understand to help better manage your money 1) Net Worth = Assets – Liabilities…

Consider conducting a final tax planning review now to see if you can still take actions to minimize your taxes this year. Here are some ideas to get you started. Review your income. Begin by determining how your income this year will compare to last year. Since tax rates are the same, this is a good…

In a time when information is always at our fingertips and digital tools dominate daily life, there’s something quietly appealing about picking up a pencil, winding a watch, or playing a record. Here’s what appears to be driving the trend to operate without screens or batteries. Imperfection is the new perfection Technology has continually moved…

A growing number of students are saying no to paying for higher education with student loans. Here’s how to join the growing number of students graduating debt-free, often by using unconventional approaches.   Serve before studying: Military service. Military enlistment remains one of the most reliable routes to a fully-funded education. The Post-9/11 GI Bill not only covers…

Property taxes are still on the upswing in many parts of the U.S. To help get a handle on your property taxes, here’s a look at what goes into determining your bill and a few ideas that may help to reduce it. Background Property taxes are typically calculated using two factors: The assessed value of…

The U.S. tax code is constantly changing. What saved you money last year might cost you this year. Between shifting income thresholds, changing deduction rules, and overlooked credits, you now need to stay focused on your tax plan throughout the year. Here are several bits of tax wisdom that can help you lower your bill…

It’s easy to overlook the ordinary. A zipper, a fork, a paperclip. Each plays a small but essential role in daily life. Yet behind many of these tools are extremely interesting, strange, or accidental histories. Here’s a closer look at the real origins of some of the objects we use every day. The paperclip: A…

Tax myths can spread quickly, leading to costly mistakes or missed opportunities. Here are several common tax myths along with best practices to help you stay grounded in reality. Myth: Moving into a higher tax bracket means you’ll take home less money Reality: The U.S. tax system is progressive, meaning your income is taxed in layers. There…