- Understanding Monetary and Fiscal Stimulus
When it comes to fixing an economy, the government has two main tools at its disposal: monetary stimulus and fiscal stimulus. This isn’t the limit of what a dedicated government can do, but most economic relief packages fall into these two categories. With the US government employing both strategies to stimulate a flagging economy in the… read more…
- How Lifestyle Inflation Hurts Your Finances
If you’ve ever heard the phrase, “The more you make, the more you spend,” you’re likely already familiar with the concept of lifestyle inflation. Lifestyle inflation is when you increase your household spending as your income levels rise. Learn how this… read more…
- HMO vs. PPO: What’s the Difference?
When shopping for a healthcare plan, you’ll want to compare costs, the size of the network and the flexibility of various plans. Two common types of healthcare plans are health maintenance organization (HMO) plans and preferred provider organization (PPO) plans.… read more…
- Non-Profit vs. Not-for-Profit: What’s the Difference?
Non-profit and not-for-profit organizations sound similar but they’re quite different in terms of tax status and fundraising. Whether you’re interested in setting up a non-profit or not-for-profit, or you’re planning to make donations to either one as part of a… read more…
- How to Use a Pour-Over Will in Estate Planning
When creating an estate plan, a pour-over will be a valuable tool for ensuring that any assets not already placed in a living trust are seamlessly transferred upon your passing. This specialized type of will works alongside a revocable living trust to provide a safety net, capturing any overlooked or newly acquired assets and directing… read more…
- Guide to Coronavirus Student Loan Relief
One of the main provisions of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was payment forbearance for all federal student loans, as well as 0% interest on those loans until Sept. 30, 2020. That meant no payments were due until that date and there would be no accrued interest until then. Despite these obvious benefits for… read more…
- Coronavirus Stimulus and Relief Program Guide
As the coronavirus pandemic intensifies, Americans are facing not only a public health crisis but an economic one as well. To help you navigate this uncertain period and protect your financial well-being, SmartAsset has gathered a list of resources to help you answer the difficult money questions you may have. We’re updating this page daily,… read more…
- Business Interruption Insurance: What You Need to Know
When a natural disaster or man-made crisis strikes, businesses often must suspend operations or operate at reduced capacity for a time. Business interruption insurance can protect business owners against income losses in these situations. However, it doesn’t normally cover infectious… read more…
- How to Retire in India: Costs, Visas and More
India is known for its vibrant culture of food, architecture and colorful festivals contributing to a millennia-old history. Whether you’re a city dweller, a mountain climber, or a beach bum, India has something for you. All these options, paired with… read more…
- How To Start a Business In Arizona
Arizona is perhaps best known for its hot climate and natural beauty, but it’s developing a high profile for business as well. The state’s population is growing, as is its economy. On the downside, Arizona has higher costs than most states.… read more…
- How to Start a Business in Colorado
Colorado’s population is growing, its workforce is younger than the national average, and it ranks among the top states for higher education attainment. The Centennial State is also a popular retirement destination and a favorite of snow skiers and those who… read more…
- Wyoming Inheritance Laws: What You Should Know
Wyoming does not have a state inheritance tax or estate tax. However, the state has laws concerning intestate succession, probate, taxes, what makes a will valid and more. If you want professional guidance for your estate planning, or if you need… read more…
- Inheritance Laws in Wisconsin
Wisconsin does not have a state inheritance or estate tax. However, like every other state, Wisconsin has its own inheritance laws, including what happens if the decedent dies without a valid will. We’ll discuss what Wisconsin has to say about that… read more…
- Vermont Inheritance Laws: What You Should Know
Vermont has no inheritance tax but it does have its own estate tax. In this article, we go into detail about that tax, and break down the state’s other inheritance laws: what happens if you die in the state without a valid… read more…
- Futures vs. Options: What’s the Difference?
Did you know that it’s possible to earn a profit in the stock market even when share prices are falling, or in the commodities market when prices drop? Typically, we think of the classic “buy low, sell high” strategy, but you can reverse this approach and still achieve gains. Two popular methods for profiting in… read more…
- Value vs. Growth Stocks: What’s the Difference?
Investing in the stock market can help you build wealth, but deciding what types of stocks to invest in can be challenging. For example, you may be deciding between value and growth stocks and weighing how each of these two styles… read more…
- How to Prepare Your Finances for a Recession
In times of economic uncertainty, understanding how to prepare for a recession can provide a sense of stability and control over your financial future. A recession, characterized by a decline in economic activity, can impact jobs, investments, and overall financial well-being. By taking proactive steps, such as reviewing your budget, building an emergency fund, and… read more…
- How to Retire in the Caribbean: Costs, Visas and More
The Caribbean offers a sunny oasis for retirees. With the laid-back lifestyle, affordable healthcare, and tax incentives, retirees are drawn to the Caribbean islands. But before you throw your winter clothes away and spend your golden years under a palm… read more…
- 8 Things You Can Do to Navigate a Recession
Navigating a recession requires an intelligent, fleet-footed strategy to safeguard your money and protect your financial future amid the downturn and uncertainty. Truth be told, no one, including the experts, knows how any economic slowdown will turn out in the… read more…
- An Introduction to Options Trading
An option contract is a versatile financial instrument classified as a “derivative.” By purchasing an option contract, you gain the right – but not the obligation – to buy or sell an underlying asset under specific terms. These terms include a predetermined price (known as the strike price) and a set expiration date. As the… read more…
- How to Retire in Nicaragua: Costs, Visas and More
Nicaragua is a small country in Central America that has coasts on both the Pacific Oceans and the Caribbean. The country also boasts mountainous regions and the largest lake in Central America, so the climate and abundance of outdoor activities… read more…
- What Do Asset Management Services Include?
When managing your portfolio and growing wealth, many investors turn to a financial professional for help. Often this means finding a financial advisor who offers asset management services. Asset management can cover a wide range of services to help you achieve… read more…
- How to Retire in Malta: Costs, Visas and More
Malta is a small five-island archipelago 100 miles south of Sicily, Italy. This Mediterranean nation and European Union member offers spectacular cities and crystal-clear waters. It’s no wonder retirees are flocking to this destination. But before you move thousands of… read more…
- How to Start a Business in Wisconsin
Thinking of starting a business in Wisconsin? The Badger State has a highly rated education system but a relatively heavy burden of regulation compared to other states. The combination makes it an enticing but challenging place to start a business. If… read more…
- How to Start a Business in Ohio
A decade ago Ohio ranked below average on many lists of state business climates. In recent years, however, the Buckeye State has risen considerably in such rankings. Still, Ohio has its share of unique regulatory, tax and other requirements for… read more…