MKR Blog
Mismanaged money, investment duds, a blown budget (or no budget), bad habits, the proverbial hole in your pocket. If financial regrets weren’t a thing, we wouldn’t need the Dave Ramseys of the world, but there’s a difference between splurging on an artisan cup of...
March Madness is upon us, and while that term often refers to college basketball, if you’re like the majority of Americans, it can also apply to tax season. The IRS tax deadline will be here before we know it, and while it might be late in the game to do much about...
As the values of homes around the country continue to rise, as well as the cost of rent, home ownership looks more and more appealing. In the past, homeowners have been able to deduct certain expenses on their tax returns. Yet, with the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017...
Many workers dream of retiring early. Not everyone has a choice in the matter, but if you do, there are some disadvantages and challenges to be aware of. Even if you can afford to retire early, you might not want to. Here are some disadvantages to be aware of when it...
The end of 2018 is quickly approaching, but there are a few key money moves you should make before the new year, especially in light of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. The higher standard deduction means more Americans will ditch itemizing their 2018 federal tax returns....
The Treasury Department has announced retirement plan contribution limits, which are adjusted annually, for 2019. Because inflation has gone up a bit recently, contribution limits are also going up, which means you can save more money next year. The maximum pre-tax...
Financial advisors commonly advise their clients to seek investments with high returns in order to maximize their retirement funds, but most investors don’t realize that high fees are eating into those earnings. While fund fees have steadily declined in recent years,...
You have several options when you inherit an IRA, so it’s no wonder that most people on the receiving end have questions about taking distributions, tax implications, and incorporating the inheritance into their existing financial plan. For starters, it helps to...
President Trump signed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in December of last year, but the income tax credits, deductions, and individual tax rates aren’t applicable until the 2019 tax-filing season. Various factors, such as your tax bracket, can influence whether your taxes...
Congress originally designed the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) to make sure wealthy taxpayers who take advantage of multiple tax breaks and itemized deductions would still pay their fair share in federal income taxes each year. The AMT produces around $60 billion a...
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...
What you choose to do with your tax refund can significantly impact your long-term financial health. Instead of splurging, consider using this extra cash to strengthen your finances. Smart strategies, such as building an emergency fund, paying off high-interest debt,...
Medicare is undergoing significant changes in 2025, impacting costs, prescription drug coverage, telehealth access, and caregiver support. Retirees should prepare for these updates to manage their healthcare expenses effectively. Below, we break down the key Medicare...
After a period of workforce reductions and aggressive cost-cutting measures, major retail companies are shifting toward optimization strategies—investing in technology, process improvements, and operational efficiencies that enhance productivity without sacrificing...
The Trump administration’s tariffs on key trading partners, including Canada, Mexico, and China, could have far-reaching consequences for U.S. consumers. With a 25% tariff on Canadian and Mexican goods, a 10% tariff on Chinese imports, and a lower 10% tariff on...
As veterinary medicine continues to evolve, 2025 promises to be a transformative year. Industry professionals face emerging legislation, possible new roles, energized investor interest, and shifting dynamics in the pet insurance market. Here are the top trends shaping...
Tax season 2025 is here, and staying on top of important deadlines is essential for avoiding late fees and penalties. Knowing key dates like the federal income tax filing deadline, quarterly estimated tax payment due dates, and extensions can help you stay organized...
Running a small business in 2025 presents both challenges and opportunities. To stay ahead of the competition, you must adopt a proactive approach to planning and execution. By focusing on the following strategies, you can set your business up for success this year...
For construction companies, growth and profitability often hinge on that company’s ability to overcome progress barriers. Whether it’s delays in project timelines, inefficiencies in communication, or outdated practices, construction firms need innovative solutions to...
After Donald Trump’s win in November, taxpayers are wondering how a second Trump term could reshape U.S. tax policy. Trump’s first term saw sweeping changes under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017. With key provisions of that legislation set to expire in 2025,...