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Author: Emma Caplan-Fisher

  • Forget Florida — these two unexpected states are the new retirement hot spots, offering lower costs, tax perks and a better quality of life for retirees

    Forget Florida — these two unexpected states are the new retirement hot spots, offering lower costs, tax perks and a better quality of life for retirees

    Retirees are flocking to certain states in large numbers. While their motivations aren’t entirely clear, the growing cost of living — especially property taxes — is a likely factor.

    A John Burns Research and Consulting study ranked states based on their highest and lowest median property tax rates.

    While it can be tempting to save money, retirees should fully understand their finances, including their budget and spending habits, before relocating. This ensures they can afford the move, no matter how financially appealing it may seem.

    Those who are ready might look to West Virginia and South Carolina — two states standing out as retiree hotspots, with property taxes of under 0.5%. Here’s what they offer and what retirees should consider.

    West Virginia

    West Virginia is ranked second best for retirement, just behind Delaware. While an official annual retiree count isn’t available, the U.S. Census Bureau reports that as of 2024, the state has a population of approximately 1.77 million, with over 21% of the population aged 65 and older.

    Dr. Joshua Price, an associate professor of economics with WVU Tech, told 59News that West Virginia offers a low cost of living — 16% below the national average — along with tax incentives. This could likely entice Americans to migrate there — something John Burns data scientist Ian Kennedy predicts, along with its low property taxes.

    As one of the country’s most affordable states, West Virginia residents can better manage inflation than those in many other states. Price noted this as another sticking point, particularly for retirees.

    For example, the state has the ninth-lowest average property tax rate in the U.S. (0.55%). In West Virginia’s capital, Charleston, the median home sale price results in a monthly property tax of less than $120.

    Additionally, taxes on Social Security benefits will be phased out by 2026, benefiting those approaching retirement.

    But West Virginia’s appeal stretches beyond finances. Charleston offers laid-back, scenic mountain living with big-city amenities, as well as a thriving arts and culture scene.

    Nearby towns like Hinton and Point Pleasant are known for their tight-knit, welcoming retirement communities.

    Outside the capital region, popular retirement destinations include:

    • Lewisburg, known for historic architecture and quaint boutiques.
    • Morgantown, a vibrant college town with great health care facilities.
    • Wheeling, offering a low cost of living and recreational options along the Ohio River.

    Of course, no retirement destination is perfect. Challenges in West Virginia include access to health care facilities in rural areas, colder winters with significant snowfall and fewer job opportunities for retirees to supplement their fixed income.

    South Carolina

    South Carolina’s affordability has improved since 2023. However, the overall cost of living remains above average, at about 95.9% of the national mark.

    Utility costs contribute to the higher expenses, while housing remains affordable. Other costs, such as groceries, are around the national average. House prices vary by region, but the state’s median home price — just under $297,000 — is about 17% below the U.S. average.

    What makes South Carolina stand out is its tax structure. There’s no estate tax, Social Security benefits aren’t taxed and 401(k) and IRA withdrawals are only partially taxed.

    The state offers a diverse range of retirement options:

    • Myrtle Beach, known for its iconic waterfront and golfing.
    • Charleston, has rich culture and historic antebellum architecture.

    With nearly 200 miles of coastline, retirees can also find idyllic communities on islands like Kiawah and Seabrook.

    While South Carolina’s mild winters and sunny summers appeal to many, retirees should consider the region’s hot summers (with July highs of 89°F), as well as the risks of hurricanes and flooding. Another potential drawback is the state’s relatively high health care costs.

    All told, John Burns senior vice president of research, Chris Porter, predicts that South Carolina will become a more attractive destination for retirees. "If you were to rank these states over time, I think the Carolinas are moving up that list for sure," Porter told Realtor.com.

    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • I’m 36, with 2 kids, and in the middle of a divorce. I’m moving home to my parents’ for a bit to save money — and I want to invest at least $3.5K/month for my future. Where do I start?

    As a 30-something, rebuilding your life post-divorce can feel daunting, especially if there are a couple of kids involved.

    However, if you’ve moved back in with your parents and you’re starting with no debt and a steady monthly savings goal of $3,500, you’re in an incredibly strong position.

    Don’t miss

    Moving back home may feel like a step back mentally and emotionally, but financially, it’s a strategic move that could help fast-track your goals, especially if you’re ready to invest aggressively.

    Here’s a breakdown of smart, efficient ways to put that $3,500 to work.

    Prioritize retirement accounts

    Before anything else, max out your retirement contributions. If you have access to a 401(k) through your employer, particularly one the company matches, make sure you’re contributing at least the full match amount. That’s free money you shouldn’t pass up.

    Beyond a 401(k), consider opening a Roth individual retirement account (IRA), income limit permitting (for the current tax year, it’s $150,000-$165,000 for single and head-of-household tax filers).

    As someone under 50 years old, you can contribute up to $7,000 for the year. Roth IRAs grow tax-free, and qualified withdrawals are also tax-free, making them ideal for younger investors with a long time horizon.

    If your income is too high for a Roth IRA, don’t worry — you can still use a "backdoor Roth" strategy.

    This involves making a non-deductible contribution to a traditional IRA and converting that account to a Roth IRA. Each month, consider allocating about $1,500 to your 401(k) and $500 to a Roth IRA, until it’s maxed out.

    Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

    Stay flexible with a taxable brokerage account

    Once you’ve hit your limit on retirement contributions, you could open a taxable brokerage account for investing. This type of investment account is held with a brokerage firm that lets you buy stocks, mutual funds, bonds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and other products.

    The firm completes investment transactions as you request. Taxable brokerage accounts are flexible, as funds can be used before retirement without penalty (though you’ll owe taxes on gains).

    Consider setting up automatic monthly investments to stay disciplined and benefit from dollar-cost averaging, a strategy that lowers volatility impact by regularly spreading out your purchases over time, so you’re theoretically not buying shares at a continuously high price point.

    Invest in your kids’ futures

    If your children are young and you want to help with their education, you could keep things simple with one or two ETFs that go to your kids on their 18th birthdays. But there are a couple of savvier investments that might help you (and by association, them) earn even more.

    For example, a 529 college savings plan is a powerful tool. Contributions grow tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified education expenses are tax-free as well. Some states even offer tax deductions or credits for contributions.

    Not sure if college is in the cards? Open a custodial brokerage account (Uniform Gifts to Minors Act/Uniform Transfers to Minors Act) instead.

    These accounts don’t offer the same tax perks as a 529, as only a portion of earnings is tax-exempt (currently up to $1,350). However, they’re more flexible and can be used for any purpose once your kids become adults.

    While individual priorities and circumstances vary and there’s no concrete, standard figure, advisors recommend contributing about $150–$350 per month per child to build a substantial education fund over time.

    What to read next

    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • I’m 39 and saddled with $25K in student loan and credit card debt. The monthly payments are absolutely crushing me — I don’t even have any retirement savings. How do I manage this mess?

    I’m 39 and saddled with $25K in student loan and credit card debt. The monthly payments are absolutely crushing me — I don’t even have any retirement savings. How do I manage this mess?

    When most people are in their 30s, there’s a lot of pressure to be in good financial standing. But what if you’re $25,000 in debt from a mix of student loans and credit card balances, and you only make $4,000 a month?

    If those monthly payments are stretching you thin, that likely means you haven’t even started saving for retirement. Although it’s a fairly common situation, and can feel overwhelming, there are ways to turn things around.

    In August 2024, Equifax Canada’s Market Pulse Consumer Credit Trends and Insights Report found that consumer debt levels rose to $2.5 trillion in the second quarter of 2024; this is a 4.2% increase since the same quarter in 2023. Card holders carry over $4,300 in credit card balances on average, which is the highest level since 2007

    So no, you’re not alone — but it’s time to make a plan. Here are three strategic options to help dig yourself out of debt and start building a better future.

    Prioritize and simplify your debts

    When you’re juggling multiple debts, the first step is to organize and prioritize.

    Start by separating your high-interest debt — typically your credit cards — from your lower-interest student loans. You may want to explore the following options:

    • Use the avalanche method. Focus on paying off the debt with the highest interest rate first while making minimum payments on the rest. This reduces the total amount you’ll pay over time. As one balance is paid off, redirect those payments to the next highest-interest debt.

    • Consider a debt consolidation loan. Even if your credit score isn’t very good — that is, below 660 according to Equifax — you may still qualify for a personal loan with a lower interest rate. You can use it to consolidate your credit card balances into one monthly payment, ideally at a fixed rate. Just be sure to avoid adding new credit card debt during the payoff process.

    • For student loans, look into federal repayment programs. If your federal student loans are unmanageable, see if you are eligible for the government’s Repayment Assistance Plan.

    Rebuild breathing room in your budget

    You don’t need to suffer endlessly, but you do need to restructure your spending. Start by creating a simple budget with breathing room.

    Every dollar should have a purpose, whether it’s rent, food, debt or savings. Here’s how to find extra space:

    • Pause or cancel non-essentials. Think subscriptions, takeout or unused memberships.

    • Renegotiate bills. Call your internet, phone and utility providers. Many offer promotions or hardship plans.

    • Use an app to track spending. Net worth tracking apps like You Need a Budget make it easy to see where your cash is going.

    • Add a side hustle. Things like freelancing, tutoring and rideshare driving can bring in extra cash. Even an extra $200 a month can make a big difference when applied to debt.

    Start saving for retirement — even just a little

    It’s tempting to delay retirement savings until you’re out of debt, but even small contributions now can compound significantly over time.

    You can start by opening a Tax Free Savings Account, which provides a tax-free shelter to grow your wealth while offering flexibility if you need to withdraw your money at any time.

    Sources

    1. Equifax Canada: Economic Pressures Could Impact Credit Performance of Consumers, Especially Young Adults (Aug 27, 2024)

    2. Equifax Canada: What is a good credit score?

    3. Government of Canada: Repayment Assistance Plan- How it works

    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • I’m 31, make $117K/year, cover all household bills — yet my fiance refuses to chip in. Insists his cash is for ‘fun’ while I handle ‘responsibilities.’ Can I fix this before we get hitched?

    I’m 31, make $117K/year, cover all household bills — yet my fiance refuses to chip in. Insists his cash is for ‘fun’ while I handle ‘responsibilities.’ Can I fix this before we get hitched?

    For some, the road to marriage can look financially lopsided. Those in their 30s earning their fair share — say, more than $100,000 a year — may be used to covering 100% of their individual household expenses.

    However, it doesn’t typically feel good when a fiance refuses to contribute, claiming their money is only for “fun,” not “responsibilities.” This scenario isn’t as uncommon as you might think.

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    According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average American household spent about $77,280 annually on expenses in 2023, including housing, transportation, food, insurance and health care.

    In a two-person household, those costs can quickly add up. And when only one person is footing the bill, the financial and emotional burden becomes even heavier.

    The red flags of an unequal dynamic

    While differences in income are normal, refusing to contribute entirely can trigger long-term problems.

    When one partner sacrifices and handles 100% of the financial responsibilities, their personal finances may suffer down the road, while the other partner gains.

    This creates several challenges.

    Budget strain. Even with a six-figure salary, carrying the full weight of household costs limits your ability to save, invest or spend on yourself.

    Lifestyle imbalance and negative emotions. When one person is financially constrained while the other uses their full income for leisure, it can foster resentment.

    Power imbalance. Financial inequality can also seep into decision-making. The partner who pays for everything may feel overburdened and unheard, while the non-contributing partner may avoid accountability.

    Future financial insecurity. Without shared financial planning, big goals — from buying a home to starting a family — may be delayed or derailed entirely.

    It’s about more than just paying the bills: aligning your values, goals and decisions is important in a successful relationship.

    Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

    How to address it before saying ‘I do’

    Before walking down the aisle, a couple in this situation needs to be candid, in a productive, structured way. If you see yourself as the "giving" half of your relationship, here are a few practical steps to hopefully see change.

    1. Have a values-based conversation

    Frame the conversation not as a confrontation, but as a shared planning session for your future.

    You can try something like: “I want us to feel like we’re building something together. Can we talk about how we want to manage money as a team?”

    Focus on shared goals, like housing, travel, kids and retirement, and how to achieve them together.

    2. Consider financial counseling

    If emotions are running high, a third party can help. Premarital or financial counseling can uncover deeper money beliefs and create shared understanding.

    Resources like the Financial Therapy Association can help you locate professionals near you.

    3. Propose a fair cost-sharing model

    A practical approach is using a cost-sharing model like a proportional contribution one.

    Under this, you’d figure out the proportion of total household income you each bring in. This system keeps contributions equitable while acknowledging income disparities.

    For example, say you earn 70% of your combined income and your partner earns 30%. You’d each contribute these proportions toward shared costs.

    So, if those costs are $65,000 annually, you’d pay $45,500 per year, while your partner would pay $19,500 per year.

    4. Set boundaries and deadlines

    If your partner continues to resist contributing, it’s worth asking yourself if this is a difference in values or a refusal to partner in life. Marriage is a financial partnership as much as an emotional one.

    Put yourself first by setting a deadline to revisit the conversation and being honest with yourself about your limits.

    What to read next

    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • The FBI says an Arizona father–son duo scammed $280M — with an elaborate ‘lie’ meant to ‘exploit and defraud investors.’ Here’s how it allegedly happened, and how to avoid frauds like this

    The FBI says an Arizona father–son duo scammed $280M — with an elaborate ‘lie’ meant to ‘exploit and defraud investors.’ Here’s how it allegedly happened, and how to avoid frauds like this

    Arizona father and son, Randy and Chad Miller, have reportedly been indicted in an alleged scheme that targeted investors looking to fund a sports complex.

    The elaborate plot, which resulted in more than $280 million in defrauded funds, involved municipal bonds linked to a large sports complex in the city of Mesa.

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    Federal prosecutors allege the pair deceived investors about prospective interest in the use of Legacy Park (formerly Bell Bank Park). The Millers used forged documents to sell what were essentially worthless bonds, according to prosecutors.

    The father–son duo now face four major charges, with victims ranging from individuals to organizations, including one that promotes athletes living with disabilities.

    What happened?

    According to federal investigators, the Millers orchestrated an elaborate fraud centered on Legacy Park, a massive sports venue near Mesa Gateway Airport.

    The pair reportedly created fake demand by forging "binding" letters of intent from sports groups and customers, falsely claiming that the venue would be fully occupied and generate more than $100 million in its first year — more than enough to cover bond payments.

    In some instances, prosecutors allege that the Millers directed others to sign letters without permission or copied forged signatures onto fabricated documents.

    “Essentially, the Millers made solicitations … particularly through bonds that were based on false statements and misrepresentations,” criminal defense attorney Jason Lamm told AZ Family.

    The fraudulent documents misled investors into believing the project had significant, credible backing. However, the project began unraveling soon after opening in 2022.

    By October of that year, the park had defaulted on its bond payments and filed for bankruptcy the following spring. Despite the estimated $284 million raised, federal officials say less than $2.5 million was ultimately used to repay bondholders. The complex was eventually sold for less than $26 million.

    The FBI’s assistant director in charge, Christopher G. Raia, remarked to AZ Family: “Randy and Chad Miller allegedly chose to use a planned sports complex as a means to exploit and defraud investors … the FBI will continue to ensure a level playing field by holding fraudsters accountable.”

    Prosecutors said the money was allegedly used to enrich the Millers personally, with things like a home, SUVs and inflated salaries.

    Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

    The father-son duo has been charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and securities fraud, one count of securities fraud, one count of wire fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft.

    “The Millers allegedly executed the scheme using fraudulent documents to lie about the status of the proposed project in order to raise hundreds of millions of dollars which they used to enrich themselves,” Raia said.

    How to spot similar investment scams

    Investment scams involving municipal bonds or large development projects often prey on good intentions, especially when tied to community efforts.

    Awareness and skepticism are your best defense. Here are some red flags and practical tips to avoid being deceived.

    Lack of transparency. If financial documents, contracts or project plans aren’t readily available, that’s a warning sign.

    Pressure to act quickly. Scammers often create a sense of urgency to discourage due diligence.

    Unrealistic returns or projections. Promises of high or guaranteed returns, especially on municipal bonds, should raise suspicion.

    Missing independent verification. If third-party audits or evaluations are unavailable, it may signal fraudulent intent.

    Follow these tips to protect yourself:

    • Verify bond issuers. Check with the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board and Electronic Municipal Market Access database to confirm a bond offering’s legitimacy.
    • Consult financial advisors. Before investing significant sums, especially in unfamiliar financial products, speak with a licensed investment advisor or securities attorney.
    • Research the project thoroughly. Look for third-party confirmations, such as news reports, planning commission documents or business filings.
    • Don’t rely on just the pitch. If the only source of information is the promoter, it’s time to ask questions and dig deeper.

    What to read next

    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • After the storm: How to financially weather home repairs and rising insurance costs

    After the storm: How to financially weather home repairs and rising insurance costs

    Some Florida homeowners hardest hit by hurricanes Milton and Helene must now also see their homes completely demolished or, if they’re lucky, elevated.

    This follows a federal mandate that impacts majorly damaged homes — those impacted by natural disasters. Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) 50% rule dictates that if a house is in a flood zone and local building officials deem it to be substantially damaged, straightforward repairs may not be sufficient.

    The complex regulation kicks in when the repair costs exceed 50% of the home’s market value (the test for “substantially damaged”), amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars for the homeowners.

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    The impact of hurricanes Milton and Helene

    Hurricane Milton took at least 24 lives in Florida and caused over $34.3 billion in damages last October, while just days prior, Hurricane Helene’s aftermath killed 34 in the state and caused over $78.7 billion in damages across the U.S.

    The west coast barrier islands of Pinellas County were one of the state’s most impacted areas. Redington Shores resident Derek Brunney has lived in his home for over 20 years and has had to contend with it being demolished.

    “You start seeing different events you had on the property. Weddings, birthdays, things like that. It just rehashed everything," Brunney told WFLA News Channel 8 On Your Side about the aftermath. "It’s one step forward, two, or three steps back. You get punched in the eye at the same time.”

    The trouble for many homeowners like Brunney is that they still must pay for their insurance and utilities. But he — and many other Florida homeowners — still hold out hope for a better future.

    “It’s slow,” he said. “It’s daunting. It’s exhausting, but it’s the only way you’re going to move forward right now until you get to the end of it.”

    How to budget for the unexpected

    When it comes to home repairs and rising insurance costs, you often can’t anticipate when they’ll hit. The key is to be prepared. While this isn’t a simple feat for many, there are some practical things you can start doing today to budget for the future and any rebuilding efforts.

    Set aside emergency savings. Aim to save what you can each year for emergency repairs and maintenance. Ideally, your fund will cover three months worth of minimum monthly expenses, but if you’re in a disaster-prone area, you’ll need to prepare for more than the bare minimum because such expenses fall beyond the parameters of regular expenses. To get a sense of what you’d need to put away, you can try using a savings goal calculator, or plain old pencil and paper. While those funds sit tight, invest them independently in something that earns interest yet keeps them separate and accessible, like a high-yield savings account.

    Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

    Understand your insurance plan and exactly what you are and aren’t covered for. Review your home insurance policy in detail every year, and don’t hesitate to contact your agent to clarify terms. Ask questions. Document answers. Make sure you understand deductibles, exclusions and any limits on claims.

    Prepare and save for increased premiums. Track trends in local insurance rates and adjust your budget accordingly. Even if you aren’t in an area of direct impact when it comes to natural disasters like fires and hurricanes, you may be surprised to learn, your premiums may still be going up. Others in “high-catastrophy states” may also need to prepare. Understand why this may be the case, and prepare to shop around for the best rates for the coverage you need, if necessary.

    Future-proof your home against natural disasters. Start with small projects like installing storm shutters and sump pumps, reinforcing your roof and replacing lighter materials with more durable alternatives. Then, consider larger upgrades like hurricane resistance or seismic retrofits, and flood barriers. Fireproofing his home made all the difference for this California resident.

    Look into state-wide programs to help offset costs. For example, Elevate Florida, the state’s first elevation mitigation program, was designed to "enhance community resilience by mitigating private residences against natural hazards." It provides eligible homeowners with at least 75% of their costs for structure elevation, mitigation reconstruction, acquisition/demolition or wind mitigation. Research and use all the programs and funds available to you.

    With these measures, you can rest assured you are being proactive in protecting your home and your future.

    What to read next

    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • ‘Pay close attention’: Suze Orman says many Americans underestimate this critical cost in retirement — 5 ways to prepare before it’s too late

    For many retirees, budgeting becomes an art of precision — cutting travel, downsizing homes and seeking out seniors’ discounts.

    But there’s one expense that still manages to take a surprising toll, even for those who think they’ve planned their golden years well.

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    Financial expert Suze Orman has warned that many Americans underestimate a critical cost in retirement, with one particular health-related expense she says is often overlooked.

    Enjoying retirement stress-free may be a matter of understanding and mitigating this critical expense as soon as possible.

    The true cost of health care

    That crucial retirement expense, according to Orman, is health care — more specifically, the often misunderstood and underestimated costs of Medicare.

    Most Americans assume that Medicare will cover most, if not all of their medical needs after retirement. But Orman cautions that this is a dangerous belief.

    While Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) is generally premium-free, the 2025 inpatient hospital deductible is $1,676 per stay (up from $1,632 last year) — just one example of unexpected out-of-pocket costs.

    Plus, Original Medicare (Parts A and B) doesn’t cover essentials such as dental, vision and hearing. Orman’s key advice is to get a solid Medigap policy to fill these gaps.

    “Anyone with Original Medicare should also have a robust Medigap policy,” Orman wrote in a blog post in December 2024. “It will cover that 20% you are on the hook for.”

    While Medigap plans do require paying more in monthly premiums, Orman believes the tradeoff is worth it to protect against large, unpredictable medical bills. These policies help with costs like coinsurance, copayments, deductibles and additional hospital and health care expenses.

    According to Fidelity Investments, the average retired couple will need about $330,000 to cover health care costs after age 65, a steep figure underscoring Orman’s warning that Medicare doesn’t mean free.

    Moreover, it doesn’t include expenses like over-the-counter medications and long-term care.

    "I sure hope those of you who are not yet 65 pay close attention, too," Orman wrote in her blog post. "Understanding all the costs Medicare requires enrollees to cover out-of-pocket can be an eye-opener that can motivate you to save up more in your retirement accounts, calibrate your spending or even consider post-retirement opportunities to earn some income."

    Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

    Smart strategies to reduce health care costs in retirement

    The numbers may seem daunting, but there are steps you can take to reduce health care costs in retirement.

    1. Build a health savings account (HSA) before you retire. If you’re still working and enrolled in a high-deductible health plan, an HSA offers three tax advantages: tax-deductible contributions, tax-free growth and tax-free withdrawals for qualified medical expenses. Unused funds roll over and can be a powerful tool to offset medical costs in retirement.

    2. Set up a dedicated health emergency fund. Beyond general savings, consider setting aside a separate fund just for health care needs. This keeps you disciplined in saving for health care specifically, while helping to avoid drawing down your retirement accounts too fast when significant expenses arise.

    3. Consider long-term care insurance. Fidelity’s health care cost estimate excludes long-term care, which can cost upwards of $100,000 annually in some states. Purchasing long-term care insurance early can protect your retirement nest egg from these steep costs.

    4. Reduce your income to lower Medicare premiums. Medicare Part B premiums are based on your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI). If you’re nearing retirement, consult a financial planner about reducing MAGI through Roth conversions, charitable giving or other tax strategies to avoid premium surcharges.

    5. Stay healthy. It might sound obvious, but regular exercise, healthy eating, preventive care and looking after your mental health can dramatically reduce your health care needs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes about 90% of the country’s annual $4.1 trillion health care expenditure is due to chronic diseases and mental health conditions. Many of these conditions are preventable.

    For those who have already retired, another way to cut down on health care costs is to ask your doctor if a generic version of your medication is available. Switching to generics or using telehealth platforms or pharmacies can also significantly lower costs.

    What to read next

    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • Colorado businesses facing $8 million in fines for employment law violations, including hiring unauthorized migrant workers — but here’s why undocumented workers are paying the highest price

    Colorado businesses facing $8 million in fines for employment law violations, including hiring unauthorized migrant workers — but here’s why undocumented workers are paying the highest price

    Three Denver-area businesses face a combined $8 million in fines for allegedly employing unauthorized migrant workers in contravention of employment law.

    U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) special agent Steve Cagen told Fox31 News that the fines are designed to uphold the law and “promote a culture of compliance."

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    “The employment of unauthorized workers undermines the integrity of our immigration system and puts law-abiding employers at a disadvantage,” he said.

    The agency announced the fines publicly on X.

    Who was fined and why

    ICE said CCS Denver, Inc. — a commercial cleaning and facility maintenance company — knowingly hired and employed at least 87 unauthorized workers. It faces the largest fine: $6.19 million.

    According to ICE, Denver’s PBC Commercial Cleaning Systems, Inc. demonstrated “a pattern of knowingly employing at least 12 unauthorized workers.” It was fined nearly $1.6 million.

    Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

    Green Management Denver was fined $270,195 after ICE identified 44 unauthorized employees.

    ICE said its enforcement actions follow workplace audits. John Fabbricatore, a former field office director for ICE. said such audits have been going on for decades.

    “They performed an I-9 audit in which they found multiple Social Security number (probably) mismatches and no matches,” Fabbricatore told Fox31.

    “So, they went through with a civil violation of that and fined these companies for employing people who are unlawfully present in the United States and unauthorized to work (there).”

    Undocumented workers pay a price

    While the businesses face financial consequences from such audits, undocumented workers pay a high price on the job. Here’s how they’re typically impacted.

    Wage theft

    When employers knowingly hire unauthorized workers, they sometimes exploit that status to skirt labor laws, resulting in wage theft.

    According to a report from the Economic Policy Institute, workers lose over $15 billion each year due to minimum wage violations alone — a burden that disproportionately affects immigrant and undocumented workers.

    Benefits loss and job instability

    Undocumented workers are rarely offered employee benefits like health insurance, paid sick leave or unemployment protections.

    Their precarious legal standing often prevents them from reporting labor violations like unsafe conditions, wage theft or harassment.

    For many, this is due to fear of retaliation or immigration consequences, including deportation.

    But some workers also have visas tied to a specific employer, meaning that employer controls their visa status along with their livelihood.

    Financial strain and tax implications

    Although many undocumented workers pay taxes — often through Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs) — they’re ineligible for many public benefits funded by those taxes.

    They’re also more likely to face budgeting strain due to unpredictable income, lack of formal employment contracts and vulnerability to sudden job loss during enforcement actions.

    What to read next

    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • This Chicago man did something wild when alleged squatters wouldn’t leave his home — he moved in with them. Here’s how his ‘nightmare’ unfolded and why you should never follow his lead

    This Chicago man did something wild when alleged squatters wouldn’t leave his home — he moved in with them. Here’s how his ‘nightmare’ unfolded and why you should never follow his lead

    When Marco Velazquez, a Chicago homeowner, discovered squatters living in his South Side property, he didn’t leave. Instead, he stayed the night.

    “I couldn’t believe it,” Velazquez told ABC 7 News, after finding the home he was preparing to sell was already occupied. “It was like a nightmare.”

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    What went down

    The intruders, a woman named Shermaine Powell-Gillard and her boyfriend, Codarro, claimed they had purchased the property and even produced a mortgage document for police. But when Velazquez checked with Cook County officials, no such mortgage was on record.

    To his shock, the police couldn’t help.

    “The worst thing happened when police told me they couldn’t do anything. It needs to go to a civil court,” he said, indicating that Illinois law prevented officers from removing the pair without a court order, despite Velazquez holding the deed.

    Determined not to let go of his home, Velazquez made an unusual choice.

    “I said, ‘I’m not going to leave.’ Called a couple friends, stayed overnight and I knew they were not going to like that,” he told ABC 7’s I Team.

    He, his wife and some friends camped out in the living room while the alleged squatters took one of the bedrooms.

    “We stayed a whole night with them … watching the door,” Velazquez recalled.

    The next morning, Velazquez was given an ultimatum.

    “They were like, we want $8,000 of what we paid, so we can leave your property,” he said.

    Though reluctant, Velazquez eventually negotiated a cash-for-key deal. He paid the couple $4,300 in exchange for their leaving and signing a release, as he feared what might happen otherwise.

    “We didn’t want to give them money, but we heard really bad stories about squatters taking over properties for six, eight, 10 months, even a year,” he said.

    Weeks later, a police detective told Velazquez that Powell-Gillard had also allegedly squatted in another home owned by Marcia and Carlton Lee. In that case, Powell-Gillard was arrested and charged with burglary, forgery, obstructing identification and criminal residential trespassing.

    Powell-Gillard has denied all accusations, stating that claims she is a squatter are “false and unfounded,” and emphasized that she is “innocent until proven guilty,” says ABC 7.

    The Chicago Police Department has not confirmed if they’re investigating Velazquez’s case. No one has been arrested or charged.

    Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

    Why police can’t always act — even when it’s your house

    Velazquez’s case underscores a broader legal issue: why property disputes involving squatters often fall under civil — not criminal — law.

    In Illinois and many other states, once someone establishes “possession” of a home, even wrongfully, it can be difficult to distinguish them from a legal tenant. That means a legal eviction process must occur before law enforcement can step in.

    Under the current Illinois law, police often need clear evidence of criminal behavior, like a break-in or vandalism, to act. Like in Velazquez’s case, if the squatter presents a lease, mortgage, utility bills or other documents — whether forged or not — police typically don’t have the authority to assess authenticity on the spot.

    Instead, the dispute moves to civil court, where a judge can determine rightful ownership.

    But this may not be the case for much longer. ABC 7 reports that Senate Bill 1563 is working toward allowing police to remove squatters and skip the eviction process. The bill still has to be passed by the full Illinois House and would then be sent to the governor’s desk for final approval.

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    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • US Secret Service seizes a second website tied to ‘pig butchering’ scam that defrauded mostly older Americans of more than $4.5M — here’s how to keep your loved ones safe

    US Secret Service seizes a second website tied to ‘pig butchering’ scam that defrauded mostly older Americans of more than $4.5M — here’s how to keep your loved ones safe

    The U.S. Secret Service in New York has seized a second web domain tied to a growing type of cryptocurrency scam known as “pig butchering,” in which scammers build trust with their victims before financially gutting them through fake crypto investment platforms.

    The Secret Service reports that from November 2023 to March 2024, the domain NFT-UNI.com was used in a scheme that defrauded a New York State victim out of $172,405.61. Other victims of the same site reportedly lost more than $4.5 million combined.

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    “By seizing this website, we are able to strike a blow to a criminal organization that financially victimized numerous individuals, including a member of our community and senior citizens around the country,” said United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III.

    This follows the seizure of another domain, OKEX-NFT.net, in May 2024. Both sites were part of a larger operation designed to lure victims into fake crypto investments that vanished without a trace once the funds were transferred.

    What are pig butchering scams, and how do they work?

    “Pig butchering” scams get their name from the process scammers use. Like fattening up a pig before slaughter, victims are groomed over time through fake online relationships, only to be financially exploited at the end.

    Many people have lost a lot through these types of relationships, including their entire life savings and their homes.

    Scammers typically initiate contact via social media, dating apps or messaging platforms. They create a friendly or romantic bond, slowly introducing the idea of investing in cryptocurrency. Once trust is gained, the scammer sends the victim a link to a professional-looking, but fake, trading platform — such as NFT-UNI.com in the New York case.

    In this instance, the victim was led to believe they were participating in a legitimate crypto investment.

    After they transferred money as instructed, the funds — more than $172,000 — were quickly laundered through numerous bank accounts to hide the source, ultimately becoming unrecoverable.

    Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

    The rise of pig butchering scams

    Pig butchering scams are on the rise, particularly as cryptocurrency continues to become more mainstream and unregulated.

    The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) reported that investment scams cost victims more than $3.3 billion in 2022, with cryptocurrency-related schemes representing $2.57 billion — a 183% increase from $907 million the year before. Many of these were pig butchering cases.

    Among these cases, older Americans are specifically targeted. The FBI’s 2023 Elder Fraud Report noted individuals over 60 experienced losses of $3.4 billion in 2023, an 11% increase from the previous year.

    Tips to protect yourself from pig butchering scams

    Keep these things in mind to protect yourself — and your aging loved ones — from pig butchering scams.

    • Be skeptical of unsolicited online relationships, especially when conversations quickly shift to financial opportunities.
    • Verify any investment platform through independent research. If a site isn’t listed on FINRA’s BrokerCheck or doesn’t have verifiable company information, it may be fake.
    • Avoid apps or websites recommended by strangers, even if they look professional.
    • Never send money or crypto to someone you’ve only met online.
    • Consult a financial advisor or cybersecurity expert if you’re unsure about an investment opportunity.
    • Report suspicious activity to the FTC or local law enforcement immediately.

    What to read next

    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.