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personalfinance: Archive

Zacks Equity Research

Form 1040A Explained: Who Qualified and How It Functioned

IRS Form 1040A was once a go-to tax return for simple finances. Here's what it included, how it was used, and why it no longer exists.

Zacks Equity Research

How to Avoid Paying High Capital Gains Tax on Rental Property Sales?

Selling a rental property can trigger hefty capital gains taxes. Here's how to cut your tax bill with smart timing, exemptions and reinvestment strategies.

Zacks Equity Research

Can You Collect Social Security Survivor Benefits From Grandparents?

Grandchildren may qualify for Social Security survivor benefits, but eligibility depends on proof of support, adoption rules and SSA requirements.

Zacks Equity Research

Are 529 Tax-Free Education Plans Suitable for Your Family?

The 529 plans offer tax-free growth, state perks and flexibility for education savings. However, penalties and limits mean that they may not be right for everyone.

Zacks Equity Research

Can I Access My 401(k) at 60 Without Penalties or Restrictions?

At 60, you can access your 401(k) without penalties, but smart withdrawal strategies are key to keeping your retirement savings on track.

Zacks Equity Research

Can You Withdraw From a Traditional IRA to Buy a Home?

Thinking of using your IRA for a home? First-time buyers can withdraw up to $10K without any penalty, but taxes and long-term costs still apply.

Meredith Margrave

The Termite Problem You Can't Ignore

Termites eat away at your home quietly. Inflation does the same to your money. Personal finance expert Meredith Margrave explains how inflation works, why the Fed's fix feels painful, and what it all means for your wallet.

Zacks Equity Research

Can You Contribute to a SIMPLE IRA if You Are Not Self-Employed?

You do not need to be self-employed to use a SIMPLE IRA. Eligibility depends on your employer offering the plan and meeting set rules.

Zacks Equity Research

Are Military Retirement Benefits Paid Out in Arrears?

Military retirement pay is issued monthly in arrears, starting the month after you retire, with amounts based on your service plan and DIEMS.

Zacks Equity Research

Renting vs. Selling a House: Which Saves More on Taxes in 2025?

Thinking of selling or renting out your house in 2025? The tax impact could be bigger than you expect. Here's how both options compare.

Zacks Equity Research

What Is a Taxable Entity, and How Does It Affect Your Business?

Knowing whether your business is a taxable entity shapes how profits, losses and liabilities are treated by the IRS. Here's what every entrepreneur should know.

Zacks Equity Research

Here's How to Dispute Social Security Overpayment or Tax Refund Offset

Are you facing a Social Security overpayment or tax refund offset? Learn the steps to dispute, appeal and negotiate repayment.

Zacks Equity Research

Are Joint Savings Accounts With Children Counted as Marital Assets?

Are joint savings with children safe in divorce? Learn how courts decide if these accounts count as marital assets and what steps protect them.

Meredith Margrave

How One Small Habit Can Make You a More Confident Investor

When personal finance editor Meredith Margrave stopped reacting and started forecasting, it took her trading to a new level. Here, she walks you through her process, step by step.

Zacks Equity Research

Can You Claim Social Security Benefits From Your Ex-Spouse?

If you were married for at least 10 years, you might be eligible to collect Social Security benefits on your ex-spouse's record. Here's what you need to know.

Zacks Equity Research

How to Use Series EE Bonds to Fund Your Grandkids' College?

Series EE savings bonds offer grandparents a safe, tax-smart way to help fund their grandchildren's education.

Zacks Equity Research

Can You E-File if You Are Married But Filing Separately in Texas?

In Texas, you can e-file as MFS, but community property rules and lost credits may impact your return.

Zacks Equity Research

Do You Need to Pay Taxes When Selling a House in a Trust?

Selling a house in a trust triggers different tax outcomes depending on the trust type, timing of sale and who receives the proceeds.

Zacks Equity Research

Here's How You Should Fill Out a W-4 to Avail a Tax Refund

Filling out your W-4 wisely can help you secure a tax refund by adjusting income, dependents and extra withholding.

Zacks Equity Research

Can Veterans With Two Years of Service Get Extra Social Security?

Extra Social Security credits for veterans can mean higher retirement checks. Learn how your service years may qualify.

Zacks Equity Research

Should You Spend Bond Funds Before Stocks in Retirement?

Are you deciding whether to spend bonds or stocks first in retirement? Learn strategies to stretch savings and safeguard long-term growth.

Zacks Equity Research

Does an SEP IRA Withdrawal Count as Taxable Income?

Withdrawals from a SEP IRA are taxed as ordinary income, with penalties for early access and required minimum distributions at age 73.

Zacks Equity Research

Can a Stepchild Get Social Security Benefits After a Stepparent Dies?

Stepchildren may qualify for Social Security survivor benefits after a stepparent's death, but strict eligibility rules determine who can claim.

Zacks Equity Research

Difference Between Bank Guarantee vs. Bond

Bank guarantees and bonds may sound similar, but they serve very different purposes. Here's how they work, and why it matters for businesses and investors.

Zacks Equity Research

How G10 Currencies Shape Currency Risk and Global Investing

Global investments offer diversification but come with currency risk. Here's how G10 currencies influence volatility and investor strategies.