At some point in your employment journey, you’re going to find yourself at a crossroads – whether you voluntarily quit a job for a new position or face an unexpected layoff. Amidst the emotional and logistical challenges of these changes, one crucial aspect that...
MKR Blog
How Social Security’s COLA Predicted for 2024 Could Affect Retirees
Every October, retirees and individuals planning for their retirement expect the Social Security Administration to announce the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for the following year. The COLA aims to counteract the eroding effects of inflation on retirees’...
The Secure Act 2.0 Delayed the Starting Age for Required Minimum Distribution, but is This a Good Move?
The passage of the Secure Act 2.0 in December of 2022 pushed back Required Minimum Distribution (RMDs) from age 72 to age 73 in 2023 (and age 75 in 2033). While proponents of this move argue that it provides advantages, such as allowing individuals more time to...
Here’s Why a Health Savings Account is Becoming a Valuable Retirement Tool
Retirement planning involves careful consideration of various financial strategies, and while traditional retirement accounts such as 401(k)s and IRAs are still go-to options, the Health Savings Account (HSA) is becoming a valuable retirement tool. Here’s why. What is...
Times in Life When You Should Pause or Slow Down on Saving for Retirement
Saving for retirement is an essential financial goal, but there are certain circumstances in life when it may be best to push pause on retirement contributions. By recognizing these situations, you can better allocate resources and make informed decisions. Read this article for more details and recommendations.
Use These Strategies to Minimize Taxes on Retirement Savings
A key approach to minimizing taxes, especially as you near retirement, is to implement tax planning strategies that can help you save money and maximize your retirement savings. Here are some tax-efficient strategies to consider. Contribute to Tax Advantage Retirement...
You Can Use IRA Funds for These Life Moments and Avoid the Early Withdrawal Penalty
Typically, withdrawing from an IRA before age 59 ½ will trigger a 10% early withdrawal penalty. However, there are some key milestones where that penalty is waived. Here’s when you can avoid the IRA early withdrawal penalty.
How to Take Retirement Withdrawals in a Down Market with Minimal Damage to Your Long-Term Financial Plan
Retirees routinely withdraw cash from retirement accounts to cover basic living expenses, but selling low could negatively affect your retirement portfolio. If the economy experiences a downturn during your retirement years, you can use the strategies discussed below to minimize the impact to your long-term financial plan.
Here’s What Retirees Can Expect from Social Security Benefits in 2023
Retirees are feeling the effects of soaring inflation, and it’s stretching their budgets. More than 70 million retired Americans depend on a Social Security benefit program as a source of income, especially during economic downturns, so annual changes to payouts are...
Retirement Planning Catch-Up Strategies for Late Starters
Approaching retirement planning when you’re late in the game can be a daunting task, but with the right strategies, you can get on track to build a nest egg that will provide some support by the time you reach retirement. Read on for proven catch-up options for late...
Surprising 401(k) Features That Can Boost Your Retirement Savings
A 401(k) is often thought of as a set-it-and-forget-it kind of account—set a contribution amount, bank on a company match, and let the market do its thing. But if you haven’t checked in on your plan lately, you might be missing out on some significant new features....
Proven Strategies to Help Construction Firms Streamline Bidding and Win More Contracts
Winning new business isn’t just about offering a competitive price. It’s about creating a well-structured and convincing proposal that shows why you’re the best choice for the job. Whether your company is established or still growing, improving your bidding process is...
2025 Construction Trends That Will Impact Your Business’s Bottom Line
As we move through 2025, construction businesses are navigating a mix of challenges and fresh opportunities. A steady economic rebound, higher levels of government investment, and rising demand for infrastructure, housing, and commercial development are driving growth...
Smart Money Moves to Make While Interest Rates Remain High
As the Federal Reserve continues to hold interest rates at elevated levels to combat inflation, consumers face both challenges and opportunities. While borrowing has become more expensive, savers can take advantage of higher yields and rethink their spending habits....
Tax Pitfalls of Venmo, PayPal, and CashApp: What the IRS Wants You to Know in 2025
If you use Venmo, PayPal, or CashApp to accept payments for freelance work, side gigs, or online sales, you’ll want to pay close attention to this year’s tax changes. New tax rules are making it harder to fly under the radar, even if you only earn a few thousand...
Rethinking Retirement: Why More Americans Are Turning to Roth Accounts Amid Market Volatility
As markets continue to experience turbulence driven by renewed tariffs, trade tensions, and global uncertainty, you might be rethinking how you save for retirement. One increasingly popular strategy is converting traditional retirement savings into Roth accounts....
2025 HIPAA Overhaul: How Healthcare Practices Can Navigate the Coming Changes to Stay Compliant
As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is implementing a major overhaul of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in 2025. These changes reflect shifting priorities in data...
SBA Launches New Initiative to Accelerate Small Business Growth and Revitalize U.S. Manufacturing
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has introduced a new program as part of its 'Made in America' initiative to boost domestic manufacturing and help small businesses expand. The initiative focuses on two critical areas: cutting regulatory red tape and...
Professional Services Trends 2025: How AI and Automation Are Driving Profitability and Growth
The professional services industry is undergoing a significant transformation in 2025, driven by rapid advancements in AI and automation. As firms seek greater efficiency, enhanced decision-making, and improved client service, AI-powered solutions are reshaping how...
Missed Quarterly Tax Payments? How to Avoid Penalties and Fix Your Situation Now
If you're self-employed or earn income without tax withholding, you’re likely required to pay quarterly estimated taxes. Missing these payments can result in penalties and interest charges from the IRS, but don’t panic—you have options to correct the situation and...