The U.S. stock market has faced some challenges during the month of March, driven by concerns around tariffs, economic growth, and the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) creating uncertainty. However, there are still reasons to remain hopeful, especially for long-term investors.

Tax season is here, and while it can seem overwhelming, preparing ahead of time can make the process much easier. Whether you’re still working, newly retired, or enjoying the benefits of retirement, taking the right steps will help you file with confidence—and maybe even uncover opportunities for savings.

If you’re thinking about sharing some of your wealth with family members or loved ones, it’s helpful to understand the IRS rules around gifting. Gifting can be a wonderful way to support the people you care about, and it’s also an effective strategy for reducing your taxable estate. With a few guidelines in mind, you can make sure your generosity doesn’t come with any extra paperwork or tax surprises.

The Social Security Administration has announced that beneficiaries will see a 2.5% increase in their benefit payments in 2025. This annual cost of living adjustment (COLA) will impact over 72.5 million Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients.