Author: Smart Wealthhabits

AYO Production / Shutterstock.comIf retirement planning strategies were just about saving more money, most people would be fine. But they are not. The difference between people who feel confident about retirement and those who don’t is usually due to a few judgments — not how hard they worked, how smart they are, or even how much they earned. According to the latest Fidelity State of Retirement Report (2026)…

Arcady/Shutterstock.comIf you haven’t yet started diversifying your investment portfolio beyond US borders, consider this a red flag. Most investors would agree that this is not the time to be 100% in the US stock market. The question is, where should you invest your capital instead? We say real estate abroad. We like hard assets, and, while US property markets are close to bubble territory…

The data shows that SCHD has become a notable anchor holding for long-term dividend-focused portfolios, and after looking at the numbers, the case for continued accumulation is worth examining. Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (NYSEARCA: SCHD) has attracted attention for three specific reasons. Reason 1: The dividend growth machine is real This fund doesn’t just pay yield and stops. dividend history tells a complex story It’s hard to ignore. In the fourth quarter of 2011, SCHD paid $0.1217 per share. Most Recent Payment: The Q1 2026 distribution came in at $0.2569 per share, paid on March 30, 2026. The quarterly…

Gemini/GoogleTax refunds are higher than ever, but car buyers aren’t using the extra cash to spend on new cars. According to data released on Friday, February 27, the Internal Revenue Service indicated that early filers saw an average refund amount of $3,804 as of February 20. That’s up 10.2% from the average of $3,453 for the same time frame a year ago. But new data released by Cox Automotive shows 93%

USA TODAY NETWORK/ReutersGas prices have started falling after a month of rise following the start of the US-Israel war against Iran. The national average gas price rose to $4.11 per gallon on April 15, according to the AAA Auto Club. This figure is lower than the national average of $4.16 a week earlier on April 8. “There has been a slight decline in gas prices in many states, less increase should be seen…”

How can I reduce my taxes now and in retirement? Do I have enough money to retire and will it last? As part of National Financial Literacy Month, AICPA and FinSCA answered some common questions individuals and families ask as they seek clarity and confidence in their financial lives. “National Financial Literacy Month reinforces that financial knowledge is an important life skill. When people understand the ‘why’ behind their decisions, they are more likely to act with confidence and purpose,” Carrie Sinnett, senior manager-personal financial planning at the AICPA, said in a news release. “Since CPAs have a unique vantage…

Weekend Images Inc. / iStock.com Commitment to our readers The GOBankingRates editorial team is committed to providing you with unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methods to evaluate financial products and services – our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our review methodology for products and services. 20 yearsHelping you become richer trusted by millions of readers The best mutual funds for Roth IRAs are typically low-cost funds designed for long-term growth, because qualified Roth IRA withdrawals grow tax-free in retirement. For many investors, this means broad U.S.…

Dividend stocks may not be attractive investments, but they can be reliable, especially if you’re concerned about the market. They can generate recurring income for your portfolio and help boost your overall returns, which can be crucial in a recession. Three stocks that could be attractive options for investors today AbbVie (ABBV +0.01%), beam (CVX 1.16%)And wiki properties (VICI 0.81%). They pay high yields, their fundamentals are strong and all of these stocks have outperformed S&P 500 In 2022, when the market went into recession. Here’s a closer look at why you might want to consider loading up on these…

Gemini/GoogleMercedes-Benz initiated the recall of more than 24,000 vehicles due to a malfunction in the propeller shaft, which could cause the vehicle to lose power while moving. According to a notice from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a Mercedes-Benz customer outside the United States reported “losing propulsion without warning” in October 2025.

USA TODAY NETWORK/ReutersA nail polish remover sold on Amazon has been recalled after dangerous chemicals were discovered that could potentially pose significant health risks. According to a recall notice published by the US, methylene chloride and chloroform found in Morrowan Gel Nail Polish Remover (15 mL) are of concern because they have been shown to cause cancer in animals and are likely to be harmful to human health.