Personal Finance

I’ve tested dozens of brand-new cars in 2026 for USA TODAY Cars to help consumers make informed leasing and purchasing decisions. There were some models I’d consider buying and some models I couldn’t wait to return. I test vehicles for a period of five to seven days and use them…

Dealing with IRS penalties and incorrect tax assessments can be frustrating. This is especially true when you believe the charges are unfair or that they resulted from circumstances beyond your control. In these scenarios, Form 843 is the IRS mechanism for requesting relief from penalties, interest and certain tax overcharges. A…

A successor beneficiary is someone who inherits an individual retirement account (IRA) from a prior beneficiary rather than directly from the original owner. That second-generation inheritance can affect distribution deadlines, annual required minimum distributions (RMDs) and tax-planning considerations. Because of these implications, it’s especially important to understand the original beneficiary’s…

Sprouts Farmers Market continues to grow, and a new store could soon be opening near you. The Arizona-based grocery chain opened its first location in Chandler, Arizona, in 2002 and currently operates more than 480 stores across 25 states, according to the company’s website. Sprouts focuses on fresh, natural and…

Selling your home is one of the biggest financial transactions you’ll ever make. While many homeowners worry about a large tax bill, the reality is that rules like the Internal Revenue Code Section 121 can allow you to keep much, or even all, of your profit. Here’s how capital gains…

Auto industry analysts have already declared the death of the sub-$20,000 car in the United States as new car prices continue to rise, and cars that cost less than $30,000 are also disappearing fast. With consumers paying an average of $49,855 for new cars in July 2026, according to Cox…

Setting up a trust can be a powerful way to manage and protect assets. However, it also comes with important tax responsibilities. One of the first steps many trustees face is obtaining a tax ID, or EIN. This allows the trust to operate as its own financial entity. Understanding when…

You have spent decades climbing the ladder, paying the mortgage, and putting out daily fires at work. The finish line of traditional retirement is still over a decade away, but the daily grind is already wearing you down. Quitting your job entirely is financial suicide. But the thought of spending…

You’ve seen them — those lucky travelers who breeze past the standard king room and head straight for a corner suite with a view. You might think they’ve got a secret handshake or a massive corporate expense account, but usually, they’re just playing the game better than you are. The…

Transferring property with a quitclaim deed may seem like a quick and tax-free move, especially among family members. However, the reality can be far more complicated. These transfers often avoid immediate taxes. However, they can quietly set the stage for a much larger capital gains bill down the road. Understanding…