Author: Money Mechanics

KEY TAKEAWAYS States with higher-ranking Medicare programs generally had plans with better coverage and easier access to providers.Medicare enrollees in the lowest-ranking states had a hard time accessing care due to a lack of transportation, fewer local providers, and increased requirements that delay services.Beneficiaries in rural areas were less likely to have a regular health care provider and spent more on care. Open enrollment for 2026 Medicare plans nationwide began last week, but a new report found that the quality of care Americans experience varies widely depending on where they live. One in five Americans is currently on Medicare, the…

Our September 5 article, The Unsung Hero of Aisle 5: A Tale of Forgotten Change and Compassion at the Supermarket, led to many comments from readers across the country, including this email from “Wyatt,” a grocery store manager in the Midwest:”Your story about forgotten change and kindness has been commented on in blogs by store personnel across the country who, on a daily basis, help families struggling to keep food on the table.”You highlighted an aspect of our lives that is seldom acknowledged by the media. Often, contrary to explicit corporate instructions to toss food that is technically expired —…

Applying for retirement benefits is one of the most important financial decisions you’ll make, impacting your monthly income for decades. This quick, 10-question True or False quiz will test your knowledge of the key rules, eligibility requirements and filing strategies. See if you know the facts about claiming early, delayed credits, earnings limits, and more! Get started and see if you’re truly ready to file.And don’t worry if you miss an answer, you can follow the links below the quiz to brush up on your knowledge.More on Social Security, from the Kiplinger team: From just $107.88 $24.99 for Kiplinger Personal…

Many people believe they are moving to state tax havens, but they really are not. That often is the case with people who move in retirement. When all types of taxes are added, taxes are one of the top three expenses of many retirees.That’s why many Americans want to move to low-tax states after retiring. But retirees often don’t reap all the tax benefits they expected, because they didn’t examine the details of state and local taxes. The details are important.Finding a true state retirement tax haven can be tricky. States and localities assess many different types of taxes: income,…

Key Takeaways Apple shares remain in the spotlight after hitting a new record high for the first time this year on Monday following signs of a strong start to iPhone 17 sales.After breaking below a pennant earlier this month, the stock made a swift reversal to close above the pattern on Monday, creating a potential bear trap scenario.Bars pattern analysis forecasts a potential upside target around $308 and indicates the move may last until late November or early December. Investors should also watch key support levels on Apple’s chart near $250 and $237. Apple (AAPL) shares remain in the spotlight…

You have a good grip on your finances.You have a joint account with your spouse at a brokerage firm, where you buy and sell securities. Each of you also has an IRA account at that brokerage firm to take advantage of the tax benefits available in such accounts.You may even have a 529 college savings plan for each of your children (or your grandchildren) so you can take advantage of tax-free savings for education. From just $107.88 $24.99 for Kiplinger Personal Finance Be a smarter, better informed investor. CLICK FOR FREE ISSUE Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free Newsletters Profit and…

For millions of Americans, Social Security provides a vital, inflation-adjusted income base that lasts throughout retirement. Yet, navigating the system’s complex rules is notoriously difficult, and a single, uninformed decision can cost you — and your spouse — tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars over a lifetime.Understanding common Social Security errors — from permanently reducing benefits by claiming too early to overlooking spousal strategies and hidden taxes — is the crucial first step toward maximizing your guaranteed lifetime income.Here is a breakdown of the 10 critical missteps you must avoid to secure the retirement benefits you’ve earned. From…

While mortgage interest rates for 30-year loans were north of 7% at the start of the year, they’ve been slowly easing down. With interest rates trending lower, you might be wondering if now’s the right time to scoop up a vacation home.A second home can be more than just a weekend retreat. It can double as an investment property that earns income and appreciates over time. But if you’re not careful, that dream getaway could quickly turn into a financial headache.Before you start house hunting, it’s important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks. Here’s what to consider before buying a…

Key Takeaways Intel shares are expected to see an above-average move after the chipmaker reports third-quarter results Thursday afternoon. Thursday’s report will be the company’s first since it agreed to give the federal government a nearly 10% stake, a deal that’s attracted investors like AI chip giant Nvidia and buoyed Intel’s stock. Intel (INTC) is set to report third-quarter earnings after markets close Thursday, and traders expect the stock to be unusually volatile following the results. Intel shares are expected to move nearly 10% in either direction the day after this week’s earnings report, according to recent options prices. A…

Key Takeaways Compared to other generations, baby boomers are the least prepared for retirement. Only 40% of boomers are on track to maintain their current lifestyle in retirement. This lack of retirement readiness is due to limited early access to retirement plans, like 401(k)s and less time to recover from under-saving.  When you think of retirement readiness, you might assume older generations are in the lead. However, less than half (42%) of Americans are on track for retirement, according to new Vanguard research. Of all the generations, baby boomers are among the least prepared, facing significant savings shortfalls and a…