Pensions have become less and less prevalent over the decades and are solidly outnumbered by their defined contribution (401k, TSP, 529, etc.) cousins. Many people view this change as just another sign the world is getting harder for the average worker. However, if you plan to retire early, then defined contribution plans I think are…

Something I have learned is that talking about money can be very off putting to most people. i can think of few other topics that while not lewd or violent can evoke such a strong reaction. There are a plethora of reasons for this and acknowledging some of those reasons may help us be able…

I was listening to a podcast a couple of weeks ago and the gentlemen being interviewed said that the common person thinks personal finance is 90% math and 10% everything else. After spending a lot of time reflecting on personal finance, I think it more appropriate to say personal finance is 10% math, 20% rules…

I feel like this quote can be used in a dozen different ways on a dozen different topics. It is important to show others grace, and it as important to show yourself grace. Regarding finance, the most important part is to start making progress on your finances. Whether that is reducing your debt or increasing…

Old age is coming for everyone. One of most common themes in stoicism is welcoming old age. Seneca says, “Let us Cherish and love old age; for it is full of pleasure, if you know how to use it. The best morsel is reserved for last.” I certainly believe this can be true, but is…

Since the creation of the 24 hour news cycle, they have become incredibly efficient at keeping you glued to the television awaiting the next tragic event that has happened in some corner of the United States. However, when you consider the increase in population, then the world has become much more safer over the decades.…

Their are a plethora of investment products on the market and with the most complex then the people selling you them often do not understand them. The advisors just understand that they get the biggest paychecks with increasingly complex products. Also, often people are understandably overwhelmed by the vast amounts of complex invest options. However,…

The only thing guaranteed with the stock market is volatility including both ups and downs. For some reason, I enjoy checking on my funds daily. I remember reading a Fidelity Study that one group of people who have above average returns in the market are the deceased. You read that right; the dead are excellent…

Taxes are a big cost, but takes priority after getting your spending in control and learning about index funds. You want to pay all the taxes that you owe, but you need to take advantage of all tax advantaged accounts. 401k and 401k equivalents delay paying taxes which allows your full amount of money earned…

An index is a list. An index fund is a list of companies that the fund buys blindly. Index funds are the easiest and best investment for several reasons. First, index funds are extremely low cost. An index fund may have an expense ratio as low as .03%. Some Fidelity funds are free. Unlike most…