Personal Finance

Breaking Down Inflation Under Trump vs. Biden

Inflation under Trump and Biden reflects two very different economic backdrops. During Trump’s first presidency, inflation remained modest, with rates generally staying below the Federal Reserve’s 2% target. Under Biden, inflation surged beginning in 2021, influenced by supply chain disruptions, stimulus spending and rising energy costs. Forecasts for a second…

Too Hot to Travel: Why Soaring Heat Is Burning Through Travel Funds

iurii / Shutterstock.comAdvertising Disclosure: When you buy something by clicking links within this article, we may earn a small commission, but it never affects the products or services we recommend. According to Forbes, over 7,000 flights were delayed in a single day as extreme temperatures gripped the nation from Nebraska…

Mortgage Rate History: 1970s To 2025

Key takeaways Looking at the past four decades, the average rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage peaked in 1981, rising just above 16 percent. The average 30-year fixed rate bottomed in 2021 at just under 3 percent. So far in 2025, the average 30-year mortgage rate has fluctuated between 6.67 percent…

The 15 Best Jobs for Flexibility, Low Stress and Great Pay

Nebojsa Tatomirov / Shutterstock.comIf you’re seeking jobs with the best work-life balance, you’re not alone. More people are prioritizing wellness, flexibility, and time outside of work. Fortunately, there are plenty of high-paying careers that don’t demand 60-hour weeks or constant burnout. Whether you’re entering the workforce, switching careers, or simply…

Charles Schwab Vs. Robinhood: Which Is Better For You?

Charles Schwab and Robinhood are two of the most popular online brokerages, letting clients buy and sell stock, options, exchange-traded funds and more. Millions of people trust these names to help them access the market, track investments and research stocks, among other things. Charles Schwab has a long-deserved reputation as…

Petflation Nation: Soaring Costs Are Hitting Pet Owners

Prostock-studio / Shutterstock.comAdvertising Disclosure: When you buy something by clicking links within this article, we may earn a small commission, but it never affects the products or services we recommend. Pet ownership comes with financial responsibility, but in the current economy, costs are climbing faster than ever, making it challenging…

Fed Holds Interest Rates Steady, Resisting Pressure From Trump

The Federal Reserve left interest rates unchanged for a fifth straight meeting, with policymakers stuck in a prolonged wait-and-see mode as President Donald Trump’s tariffs leave them wary of cutting borrowing costs too soon. The decision means the key interest rates that Americans pay to finance anything from a car…

How to Avoid Capital Gains Taxes in Washington State

Washington State imposes a 7% capital gains tax on the sale of certain long-term assets, including stocks and business interests, above an annual exemption threshold. Although the tax does not apply to all investments, many residents still seek legal strategies to avoid the Washington State capital gains tax. These can…

Income Annuities: What Are They And How Do They Work?

Imagine a retirement where you never worry about running out of money. No more fretting over market fluctuations or questioning if your savings will last. Income annuities are often hailed as the solution to longevity risk — that is, the risk of outliving your money. They allow you to swap…

How Much Can You Inherit Without Paying Taxes?

An inheritance can offer helpful financial support, but it may also come with tax considerations. The taxes you might owe depend on the type of asset, federal and state laws, and the size of the inheritance. Most estates are not subject to federal estate tax because of the high exemption…