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Author: Moneywise

  • This Detroit man used to sleep in his van — then he took $27 of cleaning supplies and turned it into $1,000,000. Here’s how Mario Kelly got rich (and how you can too, starting with just $100)

    This Detroit man used to sleep in his van — then he took $27 of cleaning supplies and turned it into $1,000,000. Here’s how Mario Kelly got rich (and how you can too, starting with just $100)

    We adhere to strict standards of editorial integrity to help you make decisions with confidence. Some or all links contained within this article are paid links.

    Not so long ago, Mario Kelly was homeless and sleeping in his van in Detroit, parked outside the kind of expensive homes he dreamed of owning one day.

    Now the self-made millionaire lives in one of those homes, and was featured as 2024’s Entrepreneur of the Year in Beautiful + Machine Magazine.

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    He tells his story — and how it all started with a $6,500 fixer-upper and $27 worth of cleaning supplies — in his book, The $27 Millionaire.

    From homeless to high-value entrepreneur

    Kelly shared his story with Fox 2 Detroit.

    Once married with a job at Ford, Kelly eventually found himself divorced, unemployed and living in his van. He told Fox 2 that what kept him going was his belief in a better future.

    One day, he noticed police placing an abatement notice on a run-down house, warning of hazards inside. Kelly learned more about problems with the home and believed he could tackle them himself.

    He tracked down the owner and bought the home for $6,500. Room by room, he fixed it up, building skills along the way.

    If you dream of making a small investment in real estate pay off big, consider Arrived, a real estate investing platform backed by world class investors like Jeff Bezos.

    Arrived allows you to invest in shares of SEC-qualified investments in rental homes and vacation rentals without taking on the responsibilities of property management or homeownership.

    You can get started with just $100, not $6500, and you don’t need Kelly’s cleaning skills or passion for DIY. Browse their curated selection of homes, each vetted for their appreciation and income potential.

    Once you find a property you like, you can choose the number of shares you want to buy and start investing in real estate in minutes.

    Read more: Car insurance premiums could spike 8% by the end of 2025 — thanks to tariffs on car imports and auto parts from Canada and Mexico. But here’s how 2 minutes can save you hundreds of dollars right now

    From $27 to a fortune

    Kelly soon put the skills he learned to work on a larger scale.

    While touring a Shinola factory, Kelly overheard an employee complain about the poor job their current cleaning service was doing.

    Seizing the moment, Kelly said he had a cleaning company. In fact, all he had was $27 worth of cleaning supplies. He landed the Shinola cleaning contract and 313 Cleaning was born.

    "I’m the cleaning guy," he said. "My whole journey started with cleaning, so let’s show them where it started at, where the $27 started at."

    If you think it sounds impossible to turn $27 into a million, you might be underestimating just how far a few dollars can go. Acorns is an automated investing and saving platform that simplifies the process of growing your wealth, starting with your spare change.

    By signing up and linking your bank account, Acorns automatically rounds up the price of each of your purchases to the nearest dollar and deposits the difference into a smart investment portfolio for you.

    Let’s say you purchase a doughnut for $2.30. Before you’re done licking the sugar off your fingers, Acorns will round the amount to $3.00 and invest the 70-cent difference for you. Look at this math: $2.50 worth of daily round-ups add up to $900 per year — and that’s before your savings earn money in the market.

    In fact, just $27 per month invested in the stock market can turn into $61,053 in 30 years, assuming an average rate of return of 10%.

    Plus, if you sign up now, you can get a $20 bonus investment.

    What to read next

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

  • ‘It’s sad’: Florida’s condo fee crisis could trigger the ‘next wave of homeless people’ in the state, says one representative — with seniors on fixed incomes at highest risk

    ‘It’s sad’: Florida’s condo fee crisis could trigger the ‘next wave of homeless people’ in the state, says one representative — with seniors on fixed incomes at highest risk

    We adhere to strict standards of editorial integrity to help you make decisions with confidence. Some or all links contained within this article are paid links.

    A new building safety law that was passed in the wake of the Surfside tragedy in Florida has resulted in a tremendous amount of financial pressure on condo owners. Now, one state lawmaker warns it could prompt the "next wave of homeless people," with elderly residents living on fixed incomes at the forefront.

    The law requires associations for condos three stories or higher to fully fund their maintenance reserves. Previously, they could waive filling these reserves, which potentially allowed damage to build up over decades. It’s also mandatory for buildings at least 30 years old to undergo structural assessments and address any critical issues. Many owners have blamed these rules for adding upwards of tens of thousands of dollars in new fees.

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    Rep. Mike Caruso rang the alarm after the issue was dropped from a special session in January.

    "It’s sad, and we’re not going to address it here in the Florida House," Caruso told the Miami Herald. "I’m shocked by it."

    Here’s what has Caruso concerned about elderly condo owners.

    New building safety law

    In 2021, 98 people died when Champlain Towers South, a 12-story condominium in the Miami suburb of Surfside, partially collapsed. Legislators rushed to pass safety reforms and a new bill was signed into law.

    But there was a problem. Many condo associations were short on reserve funds. This means that the costs for now-mandatory inspections and repairs were passed on to unit owners. These extra fees, or special assessments under Chapter 718 of the Florida Statutes, are typically levied in addition to existing fees.

    Seniors on a fixed income are especially vulnerable to sudden maintenance fee increases. This is even more true for seniors still paying off a mortgage on their condo. What’s more, Florida has one of the highest proportions of Americans over 65 in the country at 21.70% of the population, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

    Taken together, this can put seniors on a fixed income in dire straits.

    Downsizing to a smaller place or refinancing the mortgage rate on your current home could be challenging in this economy — with 30-year fixed-rate mortgages hovering at 6.67% as of March, 2025.

    Shopping around for mortgage rates can help you find the lowest rate possible or negotiate better terms with lenders. Those who received two or more quotes from lenders saved, on average, up to $76,410 over the lifetime of a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage, according to a 2024 study from LendingTree.

    If you bought your home when mortgage rates were hovering around 23-year highs of 8% or have built up better credit, refinancing your loan could potentially result in lower payments.

    You can find the lowest refinancing rates near you or shop around for a mortgagethrough Mortgage Research Center.

    The process is simple: answer a few questions about yourself and the type of property you wish to refinance or buy, and Mortgage Research Center will match you with vetted lenders best suited to your needs.

    Read more: Car insurance premiums could spike 8% by the end of 2025 — thanks to tariffs on car imports and auto parts from Canada and Mexico. But here’s how 2 minutes can save you hundreds of dollars right now

    Another source of financial stress

    Florida, which is prone to natural disasters, is also facing an insurance crisis. Prominent home insurance providers like Farmers, AAA, and Progressive have been steadily reducing or permanently shutting down operations.

    Home insurance prices in Florida are among the highest in the nation. The average annual premium for a $300,000 dwelling in the state was $5,340 as of March 24, nearly two-and-a-half times the national average of $2,242, according to Bankrate.

    But this doesn’t mean you can’t get affordable insurance coverage for your home.

    OfficialHomeInsurance.com is an online marketplace that lets you compare rates offered by leading aggregators near you for free. A side-by-side comparison of insurance premiums and other features can help you save up to $482 a year on average.

    After entering basic details about yourself and your home, OfficialHomeInsurance will sort through its database of over 200 insurance companies and display the best deals for you.

    From here, you can find the lowest home insurance rates available in only minutes.

    What to read next

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

  • ‘No turning back’: This Wall Street ‘permabear’ has been predicting the biggest market crash since 1929 — How you can prepare your portfolio if he’s right

    ‘No turning back’: This Wall Street ‘permabear’ has been predicting the biggest market crash since 1929 — How you can prepare your portfolio if he’s right

    We adhere to strict standards of editorial integrity to help you make decisions with confidence. Some or all links contained within this article are paid links.

    Mark Spitznagel, chief investment officer of Universa Investments, told Business Insider in 2024 that he thinks the “worst market crash since 1929” is coming. Now, he claims that the recent market correction is just the beginning.

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    “I expect an 80% crash when this is over. I just don’t think this is it. This is a trap,” Spitznagel wrote to MarketWatch on April 3.

    After Trump unveiled Liberation Day tariffs on most countries — with some exceeding 100% — major market indexes entered bear market territory. The CBOE Volatility Index, also known as Wall Street’s fear gauge, hit its highest level since the COVID-19 pandemic.

    “This is another selloff to shake people out. This isn’t Armageddon. That time will come as the bubble bursts,” Spitznagel continued to MarketWatch. “This is a most contrarian view right now. Promise.”

    During an interview with the Wall Street Journal, he noted the high levels of national debt and the Federal Reserve’s aggressive rate hikes as contributing factors towards the “greatest credit bubble in human history.”

    “Credit bubbles end. They pop. There’s no way to stop them from popping,” he said, adding that the Fed has brought the economy to a place “where there’s no turning back.”

    Spitznagel’s advice to everyday investors is to not chase the market but build a portfolio that can withstand the next market crash instead.

    Preparing for a crash

    Spitznagel’s advice to investors is unorthodox.

    “Diversification is not the holy grail as it’s been touted by many people. That is a big lie actually.”

    While a diversified portfolio is traditionally held as the best way to protect your fortune against a fluctuating market, if Spitznagel’s advice has you unsure, speaking with an experienced financial professional could help bring you clarity and peace of mind.

    With Advisor.com — a modern wealth platform — you can connect with professionally vetted financial advisors in as little as three minutes and find the right match for you

    When you answer a few questions about yourself, the platform will match you with professionally vetted advisors that fit your needs. Then you can choose your favorite and book a free consultation with no obligation to hire.

    Gold

    Gold has long been touted as a safe haven asset during market uncertainty.

    Gold is regarded as a hedge against inflation for a simple reason: It can’t be printed out of thin air like fiat money.

    One way to invest in gold that also provides significant tax advantages is to open a gold IRA with the help of Thor Metals.

    Gold IRAs allow investors to hold physical gold or gold-related assets within a retirement account, thereby combining the tax advantages of an IRA with the protective benefits of investing in gold, making it an attractive option for those looking to potentially hedge their retirement funds against economic uncertainties.

    To learn more, you can get a free information guide that includes details on how to get up to $20,000 in free metals on qualifying purchases.

    Read more: Car insurance premiums could spike 8% by the end of 2025 — thanks to tariffs on car imports and auto parts from Canada and Mexico. But here’s how 2 minutes can save you hundreds of dollars right now

    Real estate

    If you’re searching for an investment that offers both stability and potential for tempting returns, commercial real estate might be the answer. Unlike the stock market, which can be highly volatile, commercial real estate can provide steady income streams with generally lower volatility and a low correlation to the S&P 500, according to Nareit data.

    Platforms like First National Realty Partners (FNRP) make it easier than ever to get started in this sector with professionally-vetted deals. FNRP gives you access to necessity-based real estate — such as grocery stores or health care facilities. That means the properties are essential to the local community, often leased by national brands, and likely to remain desirable.

    Once a deal is closed, FNRP’s team of experts manages the property, so you can focus on finding your next deal. While commercial real estate can provide stability, residential real estate also offers a strong opportunity for further portfolio diversification.

    With real estate investments averaging 10% returns over the past two decades, it’s no wonder the market is attractive. However, high prices and mortgage rates have made it increasingly challenging for buyers — until now.

    Instead of buying a property outright or taking on an expensive mortgage, there’s are crowdfunding platforms that take a different approach by allowing you to invest directly in in residential properties without the hefty price tag of buying and managing a property yourself.

    New investing platforms are making it easier than ever to tap into the real estate market.

    For accredited investors, Homeshares gives access to the $36 trillion U.S. home equity market, which has historically been the exclusive playground of institutional investors.

    With a minimum investment of $25,000, investors can gain direct exposure to hundreds of owner-occupied homes in top U.S. cities through their U.S. Home Equity Fund — without the headaches of buying, owning or managing property.

    With risk-adjusted internal returns ranging from 12% to 18%, this approach provides an effective, hands-off way to invest in owner-occupied residential properties across regional markets.

    If you’re not an accredited investor, crowdfunding platforms like Arrived allows you to enter the real estate market for as little as $100.

    Arrived offers you access to shares of SEC-qualified investments in rental homes and vacation rentals, curated and vetted for their appreciation and income potential.

    Backed by world-class investors like Jeff Bezos, Arrived makes it easy to fit these properties into your investment portfolio regardless of your income level. Their flexible investment amounts and simplified process allows accredited and non-accredited investors to take advantage of this inflation-hedging asset class without any extra work on your part.

    Another alternative to the stormy stock market

    Over the past 25 years, contemporary art has shown itself to be a unique opportunity to diversify your portfolio outside the stock market.

    In fact, fine art has historically outperformed the S&P 500, with contemporary art achieving an annual return of 11.5% from 1995 to 2023, compared to the S&P 500’s 9.6% during the same period.

    Now, retail and accredited investors can easily invest in blue-chip art with Masterworks. Masterworks’ team scours the art market for the best deals, buys them at a discount, and offers shares to members. The Masterworks community of more than you 60,000 investors has access to exclusive shares in modern art by the likes of Picasso, Banksy and Jean-Michel Basquiat.

    Sign up now to get VIP access and skip the waitlist and start building your portfolio outside the volatile stock market.

    What to read next

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

  • How much cash do you plan to keep on hand after you retire? Here are 3 of the biggest reasons you’ll need a substantial stash of savings in retirement

    How much cash do you plan to keep on hand after you retire? Here are 3 of the biggest reasons you’ll need a substantial stash of savings in retirement

    We adhere to strict standards of editorial integrity to help you make decisions with confidence. Some or all links contained within this article are paid links.

    During your working years, it’s important to have cash savings for unplanned expenses. These could run the gamut from home repairs to medical emergencies to a period of unemployment.

    But what if you’re retired and are therefore relying on your savings and investments to fund your lifestyle? In that case, the guidelines for keeping cash on hand change quite a bit.

    Here’s what you need to know before you retire.

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    Why do retirees need cash?

    In the context of retirement, cash can mean funds in a checking or savings account, or certificates of deposit (CDs) —essentially, money that’s shielded from market fluctuations.

    Here are some reasons you’ll need cash as a retiree.

    1. You’re living off of savings now

    While Social Security offers income, the average benefit of $1,918 per month may not cover all expenses. Once that’s spent, cash allows you to handle surprises like car repairs or home maintenance without selling stocks or draining your savings.

    If you want to grow your savings more efficiently, you can so just that with a high-yield cash account like the one offered by Wealthfront.

    Wealthfront is a financial services platform offering a range of products, from automated investing to cash accounts. The Wealthfront Cash Account offers 5.00% APY — that’s 10x the national average.

    With full access to your money at all times, Wealthfront also offers fast (and free) transfers to internal Wealthfront investing accounts, as well as external accounts

    To get started, you can fund your cash account with as little as $1 and start stacking up your savings.

    To compare all the best savings options, you can check out Moneywise’s Best High Yield Savings Accounts of 2025 to find some savvy savings options that earn you more than the national average of 0.4% APY.

    Like the sound of high-yield account rates?

    Then you might also be interested in exploring certificates of deposit (CDs). A CD is a low-risk savings option that can yield interest comparable to, or even higher than, the top savings accounts. The trade-off for this higher rate is that your money stays locked in the account for a set period.

    With SavingsAccounts.com you can shop and compare top certificates of deposit rates from various banks nationwide.

    Their extensive database shows the most competitive rates, with daily rate updates and personalized recommendations based on your risk preferences and time horizon so you can find the right CD to meet your retirement savings goals.

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    2. You will face unplanned expenses

    For workers, an emergency fund doesn’t just safeguard against a job loss. It can also be the ticket to covering surprise expenses without going into debt. And being retired doesn’t make you immune from surprises.

    Many retirees face home repairs as their properties age alongside them. Your monthly Social Security check may not be enough to replace a water heater, or cover hospital expenses if you encounter a medical emergency.

    If you’re concerned that Medicare might not cover your expenses, there are other insurance options you can consider.

    Long-term care insurance offers coverage for the costs of in-home assistance, nursing homes or assisted living facilities.

    Without proper planning, paying for long-term care could deplete your retirement fund. In many cases, the burden of paying for care often falls on family members – potentially straining their finances.

    When considering long-term care insurance, GoldenCare offers different options based on your needs, including hybrid life or annuity with long-term care benefits, short-term care, extended care, home health care, assisted living, and traditional long-term care insurance..

    If your health is excellent, you may be able to cover your health care expenses with relative ease. If you have multiple health issues, it’s a good idea to stockpile extra cash in case your bills start to mount at a time when it’s not advantageous to tap your investments.

    3. You want to protect yourself from investment losses

    You may have the majority of your retirement savings in a portfolio of investments that include stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. The upside of holding these investments in retirement is that they can continue to generate growth, giving you access to more money. The downside is that their value can change based on market conditions.

    If you have a riskier portfolio more concentrated in stocks, then you may want more cash on hand to balance that out. If your portfolio is largely bonds, you might get away with less cash, since bonds are less volatile than stocks and can provide predictable interest payments that you can use as income.

    If you’re optimizing your investments for stability, gold is typically more stable than stocks during economic downturns and recessions. In fact, gold has increased in value sevenfold over the last 100 years.

    Opting for a gold IRA gives you the opportunity to hedge against market volatility by allowing you to invest directly in physical precious metals rather than stocks and bonds.

    These days, you don’t even have to go to a bullion shop to buy precious metals. There are plenty of online platforms that offer a wide selection of gold and silver bars and coins and fair pricing.

    Priority Gold is an industry leader in precious metals, offering physical delivery of gold and silver. Plus, they have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and a 5-star rating from Trust Link.

    If you’d like to convert an existing IRA into a gold IRA, Priority Gold offers 100% free rollover, as well as free shipping, and free storage for up to five years. Qualifying purchases will also receive up to $10,000 in free silver.

    To learn more about how Priority Gold can help you reduce inflation’s impact on your nest egg, download their free 2025 gold investor bundle.

    How much cash should you aim for in retirement?

    Just as there are different opinions when it comes to building an emergency fund for your working years, the guidance varies over how much cash you might need in retirement.

    Remember that it’s never a bad idea to speak with a qualified financial advisor.

    Based on your expenses, needs, and investment portfolio, services like Advisor.com may help you find a financial professional who can strike the ideal balance in your portfolio so you have enough cash on hand without going overboard.

    FinancialAdvisor.net is a free online service that helps you find a financial advisor who can help you create a plan to reach your financial goals. Just answer a few questions and their extensive online database will match you with a few vetted advisors based on your answers.

    You can view advisor profiles, read past client reviews, and schedule an initial consultation for free with no obligation to hire.

    What to read next

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

  • Jason Kelce says he lost ‘all my money’ in New Orleans at Super Bowl LIX — at one point it was a ‘bigger bloodbath’ than the Chiefs’ blowout loss. Here’s what happened and what you can learn

    Jason Kelce says he lost ‘all my money’ in New Orleans at Super Bowl LIX — at one point it was a ‘bigger bloodbath’ than the Chiefs’ blowout loss. Here’s what happened and what you can learn

    We adhere to strict standards of editorial integrity to help you make decisions with confidence. Some or all links contained within this article are paid links.

    Travis Kelce, along with the Kansas City Chiefs, suffered a crushing loss at Super Bowl LIX after being obliterated 40-22 by the Philadelphia Eagles. But his brother, Jason, also turned out to be a loser over the course of that eventful weekend.

    The retired NFLer revealed that he lost "all my money" gambling while in New Orleans for the big game Feb. 9.

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    "Casino’s right next door, and because I won so much money last year at Las Vegas [at the Super Bowl], I thought, ‘You know, hey, we’ll just keep this rolling, this will be great,”’ Jason Kelce recalled during an episode of the "New Heights" podcast he hosts along with Travis.

    But the magic didn’t work this time. He described one point while playing craps as being "a bigger bloodbath than the game."

    Jason failed to take his own advice before hitting the tables.

    "I don’t normally go to the casino," he said. "It’s just like handing them money."

    Fortunately for Jason, after earning $80-plus million over 13 years as a player and signing a $24-million contract with ESPN last May, he likely can absorb the loss.

    Why people lose money gambling

    Jason’s case isn’t surprising. With sports betting and other forms of gambling becoming increasingly popular, the problem has spread like wildfire.

    About 85% of U.S. adults have gambled at least once in their lives, according to the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), while 60% have gambled within the past year.

    The problem, though, is that gambling can lead to serious financial losses. The NCPG estimates that problem gambling costs Americans $14 billion per year in the form of gambling-related criminal justice and health-care spending, job loss, bankruptcy and other consequences.

    Build healthy money habits

    One of the problems with gambling is that it can start as a social activity and turn dark quickly. It can be hard to say no when friends invite you to a casino to celebrate a birthday or bachelor party. But even a single night of gambling could have serious financial consequences.

    One thing you may want to do is only bring cash with you to a casino. Leave your credit and debit cards at home to avoid the temptation to gamble more or "win back" your losses. Another option is to say no to gambling altogether if it’s something you’re uncomfortable with.

    Once you feel like you’re in control, start practicing healthy money habits and set aside a portion of your paycheck for investments.

    Start small but be consistent

    You don’t have to invest significant sums of money or time the markets perfectly in order to build a nice portfolio. The trick, according to legendary investor Warren Buffett, lies in investing consistently and harnessing the benefits of compound interest.

    You can turn everyday spending into an investment opportunity with Acorns. When you link your credit and debit cards, Acorns automatically rounds up your purchases to the nearest dollar and deposits the excess in low-cost diversified ETFs.

    So, your $4.25 morning coffee becomes a 75-cent investment in your future. While spare change from everyday purchases might not seem like much, it adds up over time. Just $2.50 worth of daily round-ups amounts to over $900 in a year — and that’s before it compounds and earns money in the market.

    Sign up with Acorns within minutes and get a $20 bonus investment.

    Put your cash to work

    You probably hold some amount of cash to cover your monthly expenses or in your emergency fund. Financial planners typically suggest keeping three to six months’ worth of monthly expenses in the fund.

    Instead of hoarding the money in a traditional savings account, consider opening a high-yield account and let your cash work harder for you.

    For example, Wealthfront’s high-yield cash account offers 4.00% APY on deposits — roughly 10 times the national average of 0.41% as of April 25.

    The best part? You don’t have to pay any account fees and can enjoy 24/7 withdrawals. If you register for direct deposit, you can get your paycheck up to 2 days early and start earning interest. Assuming you get paid bi-weekly, that’s a 14% boost on interest you could earn from your paycheck.

    Get started with just $1.

    If you want to browse further or compare your options, check out Moneywise’s high-yield savings accounts of 2025 list.

    Read more: Car insurance premiums could spike 8% by the end of 2025 — thanks to tariffs on car imports and auto parts from Canada and Mexico. But here’s how 2 minutes can save you hundreds of dollars right now

    Know where your money is going

    Tracking your spending is key to building a healthy relationship with money. Once you know how much money is coming in and how much you’re spending, you can set up goals for yourself for financial freedom.

    Monarch Money helps you track all your accounts in one place — helping you know where your money is going at all times. You can get custom reminders for upcoming bill payments, ensuring you never miss a payment.

    You can also track how your net worth is growing over time by linking your investment accounts and real estate. What’s more, Monarch Money’s Advice Wizard Tool provides personalized recommendations on how to achieve your financial goals faster.

    You can get a 7-day free trial as well as 30% off your subscription for the first year when you sign up with Monarch Money.

    Invest in your future

    Tariff-driven uncertainty has stoked inflation fears as well as increased the odds of a potential recession.

    But opting for relatively safer assets like real estate can somewhat hedge your portfolio from market risks. Plus, you can generate a passive income source by investing in rental properties, helping you boost your income.

    Even better, you don’t need to take out a new mortgage in order to be a landlord.

    Backed by world-class investors like Jeff Bezos and Marc Benioff, Arrived lets you invest in single-family residential properties and vacation rentals across the country.

    Arrived handles all the paperwork and management throughout the lifecycle of the investment, allowing you to sit back and become a landlord without having to deal with any hassles. Plus, Arrived distributes any rental income from properties as monthly dividend checks, helping you set up a passive income source from the comfort of your home.

    Arrived’s total returns range from 6%-10% annually. In comparison, the S&P 500 index’s annualized returns of just over 10.13% since 1957. But, with Arrived, you also get the added benefit of diversification, real estate can act as a hedge against stock market volatility.

    Get started and become a landlord with just $100 here.

    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 65, have $120,000 saved, collect Social Security of $1,700/month — but monthly expenses total $3,900. How can I make sure money doesn’t run out without sacrificing lifestyle?

    We adhere to strict standards of editorial integrity to help you make decisions with confidence. Some or all links contained within this article are paid links.

    At age 65, a $120,000 nest egg isn’t going to produce as much income as you might hope.

    Assuming you follow the 4% rule, you’ll only be able to withdraw $4,800 annually ($383 a month) from your retirement savings. — That rule would ensure your nest egg lasts 30 years.

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    Add a $1,700 Social Security check to that and you have about $2,000 to cover your stated expenses each month — about $1,900 shy of the $3,900 you need, not including emergency medical bills and expenses.

    Factor in taxes, and you’re in trouble. In fact, if you take this much money out of your savings, your money would only last 5 years if your investments earn 7% and you’re in the 22% tax bracket.

    You need to figure out another solution. Here are some options.

    Increase your income

    If your retirement spending needs are higher than your income, consider a part-time job, if not a full-time job.

    You can collect Social Security benefits while you’re working, but if you haven’t hit the full retirement age of 67, the government can claw back your benefits. In 2025, you’ll lose $1 in benefits for every $2 earned above $23,400 if you won’t reach FRA all year.

    The good news is that if you earn too much and lose some or all of your Social Security benefits, this is temporary. Your payment will be recalculated after you hit full retirement age.

    So, working can help you in two ways, by providing you with a livable income, and potentially giving your Social Security benefits a boost when you reach full retirement age.

    If you’re a homeowner you may be able to tap into your home equity to generate cash flow — for example, through a home equity loan or even selling your home and downsizing, then investing the difference.

    With home values higher than ever, you can make your home work harder for you by making the most of your equity. The average homeowner sits on roughly $311,000 in equity as of the third quarter of 2024, according to CoreLogic.

    Having access to your home equity could help to cover unexpected expenses, pay substantial debt, fund a major purchase like a home renovation or supplement income from your retirement nest egg.

    Rates on HELOCs and home equity loans are typically lower than APRs on credit cards and personal loans, making it an appealing option for homeowners with substantial equity.

    Unlock great low rates in minutes by shopping around. You can compare real loan rates offered by different lenders side-by-side through LendingTree.

    Just answer a few simple questions, and LendingTree will match you with up to 5 lenders with low rates today.

    Investments that pay dividends can also help you to add a much-needed boost to your monthly income, but you should also consider investing outside of the stock market to spread your risk.

    With only $120,000 in savings, you may assume investing in the stock market is out of the question, but new investing platforms are making it easier than ever to tap into the real estate market.

    For accredited investors, Homeshares gives access to the $36 trillion U.S. home equity market, which has historically been the exclusive playground of institutional investors.

    With a minimum investment of $25,000, investors can gain direct exposure to hundreds of owner-occupied homes in top U.S. cities through their U.S. Home Equity Fund — without the headaches of buying, owning or managing property.

    With risk-adjusted internal returns ranging from 12% to 18%, this approach provides an effective, hands-off way to invest in owner-occupied residential properties across regional markets.

    If you’re not an accredited investor, crowdfunding platforms like Arrived allows you to enter the real estate market for as little as $100.

    Arrived offers you access to shares of SEC-qualified investments in rental homes and vacation rentals, curated and vetted for their appreciation and income potential.

    Backed by world-class investors like Jeff Bezos, Arrived makes it easy to fit these properties into your investment portfolio regardless of your income level. Their flexible investment amounts and simplified process allows accredited and non-accredited investors to take advantage of this inflation-hedging asset class without any extra work on your part.

    One income source that many overlook is making their essential spending go further. With Acorns, you can automatically invest spare change from your everyday purchases into a diversified portfolio of ETFs managed by experts at leading investment firms like Vanguard and BlackRock.

    For example, if you buy a donut for $3.25, Acorns will round up the purchase to $4 and invest the change in a smart investment portfolio. So a $3.25 purchase automatically becomes a 75-cent investment in your retirement fund.

    Sign up today and get a $20 bonus investment.

    Read more: Car insurance premiums could spike 8% by the end of 2025 — thanks to tariffs on car imports and auto parts from Canada and Mexico. But here’s how 2 minutes can save you hundreds of dollars right now

    Reduce your spending

    Cost-cutting will be essential if a job is out of the question and you can’t dip into home equity or generate additional income.

    Some people manage to get by on Social Security alone, but it means a less comfortable, more frugal lifestyle in retirement. The Social Security Administration reports that 39% of American men and 44% of American women get at least half their income from Social Security.

    Meanwhile, for the 12% of men and 15% of women who count on Social Security to provide 90% or more of their income — not ideal as the benefits are intended to replace 40% of pre-retirement income — it can be hard to make the numbers work.

    If you have to survive on Social Security, cost-cutting may be easier if you make one or two big changes, like moving to a cheaper place rather than reducing lots of discretionary spending. One big cut can be easier to sustain than many small cuts.

    One great place to trim your spending is on your transportation costs. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), the total cost of owning and operating a new vehicle in 2025 has climbed to around $12,297 per year — or $1,024.71 per month.

    Insurance can make up a sizable chunk of this monthly expense. According to Forbes, the national average cost for full-coverage car insurance in 2024 was $2,149 per year (or $179 per month). However, rates can vary widely depending on your state, driving history and vehicle type.

    Shopping around for better rates can cut down your costs. With OfficialCarInsurance.com, you can instantly compare quotes from multiple insurers, such as Progressive, Allstate and GEICO.

    In just two minutes, you could find rates as low as $29 per month.

    Get expert advice

    Consider working with a financial advisor to explore all your options and help you make the right decisions going forward. An advisor can help with your budgeting and may even identify potential income sources you’ve missed.

    Advisor.com can help you find someone that’s right for you.

    This online platform connects you with vetted financial advisors in minutes. How it works is easy: Just answer a few quick questions about yourself and your finances, and the platform will match you with a financial advisor best suited to helping you make your money last in retirement.

    From here, you can view their profile, read past client reviews and schedule an initial consultation for free with no obligation to hire.

    What to read next

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

  • How much is the average Social Security check of a middle-class retiree?

    How much is the average Social Security check of a middle-class retiree?

    We adhere to strict standards of editorial integrity to help you make decisions with confidence. Some or all links contained within this article are paid links.

    Social Security is an important piece of the retirement puzzle, particularly for middle-class retirees who count on the safety net to supplement their post-career income.

    But if you see Social Security as an income centerpiece, not just icing on the cake, a closer look at the numbers may prompt you to think again.

    U.S. Census Bureau data from 2022 shows the national middle-class income range is between $49,271 and $147,828 — a span heavily influenced by location and cost-of-living considerations.

    Don’t miss

    The Bureau says the median household income in the U.S. that year was $74,580. A 55-year-old earning that amount today and planning to take Social Security at age 62 would get an estimated monthly benefit of about $1,869 a month — or $22,428 a year. (This figure was reached using the AARP’s Social Security calculator.)

    Presuming the retiree has no savings and would rely on Social Security alone, that’s dangerously near the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ 2024 poverty line ($15,060) for one person.

    Social Security benefits vary greatly but generally depend on how long one is willing to defer their benefit. Planning for a retirement that doesn’t count on Social Security, some argue, makes sense given persistent questions about the safety net’s sustainability.

    Getting more from Social Security

    Getting the most from Social Security comes down to strategy, forethought and planning — along with a decent understanding of how the system works. Here are several strategies middle-class retirees can employ to increase their benefits:

    Delay claiming benefits

    While starting your Social Security draw early may make sense in some scenarios, the most effective way to increase your monthly check is to delay the benefit.

    While retirees can start receiving benefits as early as age 62, doing so results in a reduced monthly benefit. Each year you wait, up until age 70, significantly increases the benefit amount.

    One way to invest in gold that also provides significant tax advantages is to open a gold IRA with the help of Thor Metals.

    Gold IRAs allow investors to hold physical gold or gold-related assets within a retirement account, thereby combining the tax advantages of an IRA with the protective benefits of investing in gold, making it an attractive option for those looking to potentially hedge their retirement funds against economic uncertainties.

    To learn more, you can get a free information guide that includes details on how to get up to $20,000 in free metals on qualifying purchases.

    Consider the tax consequences

    Social Security benefits can be taxable depending on the retiree’s total income. It’s essential to understand how other sources of income, such as pensions or investment withdrawals, impact the taxability of Social Security benefits. Proper tax planning can help minimize Uncle Sam’s share of your money.

    FinancialAdvisor.net is a free online service that helps you find a financial advisor who can help you create a plan to reach your financial goals. Just answer a few questions and their extensive online database will match you with a few vetted advisors based on your answers.

    You can view advisor profiles, read past client reviews, and schedule an initial consultation for free with no obligation to hire.

    Explore other investments and savings vehicles

    While maximizing Social Security is important, it should be part of a broader retirement strategy. Middle-class retirees should also consider other sources of income, such as part-time work, rental income and investments to supplement their Social Security benefits.

    Read more: Car insurance premiums could spike 8% by the end of 2025 — thanks to tariffs on car imports and auto parts from Canada and Mexico. But here’s how 2 minutes can save you hundreds of dollars right now

    Investing

    Both residential and commercial real estate have long been solid choices for investors looking to diversify and add stability to their portfolios — especially while saving for retirement. Since having a place to live is essential, real estate remains a stable, relevant asset.

    New investing platforms are making it easier than ever to tap into the real estate market.

    For accredited investors, Homeshares gives access to the $36 trillion U.S. home equity market, which has historically been the exclusive playground of institutional investors.

    With a minimum investment of $25,000, investors can gain direct exposure to hundreds of owner-occupied homes in top U.S. cities through their U.S. Home Equity Fund — without the headaches of buying, owning or managing property.

    With risk-adjusted internal returns ranging from 12% to 18%, this approach provides an effective, hands-off way to invest in owner-occupied residential properties across regional markets.

    If you’re not an accredited investor, crowdfunding platforms like Arrived allows you to enter the real estate market for as little as $100.

    Arrived offers you access to shares of SEC-qualified investments in rental homes and vacation rentals, curated and vetted for their appreciation and income potential.

    Backed by world-class investors like Jeff Bezos, Arrived makes it easy to fit these properties into your investment portfolio regardless of your income level. Their flexible investment amounts and simplified process allows accredited and non-accredited investors to take advantage of this inflation-hedging asset class without any extra work on your part.

    For example, First National Realty Partners specializes in grocery-anchored commercial real estate properties with historically strong return potential.

    FNRP has developed relationships with the nation’s largest essential-needs brands, including Kroger, Walmart and Whole Foods, and provides insights into the best properties both on- and off-market.

    If you’re a newer investor, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed by the prospect of getting into investing, especially if your retirement fund is riding on it. That being said, investing doesn’t have to be all that complex with platforms like Acorns which put your investments on autopilot.

    Once you’ve downloaded the app and linked your bank account, Acorns will round up every purchase you make to the nearest dollar and invest the spare change into a diverse portfolio of ETFs. That way, you can work towards your savings goals a few cents at a time — without even thinking about it.

    Saving

    Saving for retirement is no small feat, but using the right savings vehicles can take a bit of the pressure off.

    You might also consider checking out the Moneywise list of the Best High Yield Savings Accounts of 2025 to find some great options that can earn you more than the national average of 0.45% APY.

    What to read next

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

  • ‘We’re not robots’: As recession looms, Americans may be unsure about what to do with their 401(k) — here’s what experts recommend

    ‘We’re not robots’: As recession looms, Americans may be unsure about what to do with their 401(k) — here’s what experts recommend

    We adhere to strict standards of editorial integrity to help you make decisions with confidence. Some or all links contained within this article are paid links.

    Since 1950, the US has weathered 11 recessions, proving time and again that downturns aren’t a question of if, but when.

    After a strong performance from the S&P 500 in 2024 — which experts hailed as a “very good year” — storm clouds are forming. Trump’s aggressive tariff policies have rattled markets with the S&P 500 entering correction territory in April 2025.

    Don’t miss

    Times like these may have long-term investors wondering what they should do to protect their portfolios. The answer? Do nothing and stay the course.

    “Generally, the advice boils down to staying invested. But I firmly believe that just saying ‘stay invested’ doesn’t work on days when stocks are in free-fall and the world feels terrible,” Callie Cox, chief market strategist for Ritholtz Wealth Management, said to The Washington Post.

    “We’re not robots, we’re humans with emotions, and we need to honor that in times like these.”

    Why you shouldn’t panic sell

    Watching the portfolio you’ve built for retirement fluctuate can be unsettling, especially when market downturns threaten the very assets you plan to rely on.

    However, selling and moving your money to the sidelines is typically not the best course of action.

    “Seventy-eight percent of the stock market’s best days have occurred during a bear market or during the first two months of a bull market,” according to Hartford Funds, an asset management firm that includes Schroders and Wellington Management. “If you missed the market’s 10 best days over the past 30 years, your returns would have been cut in half. And missing the best 30 days would have reduced your returns by an astonishing 83%.”

    The importance of a diversified portfolio

    One way for investors to diversify a portfolio is by buying into international assets, with well-known asset management firm Vanguard suggesting at least 20% in international stocks and bonds as a benchmark.

    However, diversification isn’t just about protecting your portfolio — it’s about building resilience. That’s why holding investments beyond the S&P 500 can act as a cushion when the economy hits a rough patch.

    But stocks aren’t the only way to diversify your portfolio.New investing platforms are making it easier than ever to tap into the real estate market.

    For accredited investors, Homeshares gives access to the $36 trillion U.S. home equity market, which has historically been the exclusive playground of institutional investors.

    With a minimum investment of $25,000, investors can gain direct exposure to hundreds of owner-occupied homes in top U.S. cities through their U.S. Home Equity Fund — without the headaches of buying, owning or managing property.

    With risk-adjusted internal returns ranging from 12% to 18%, this approach provides an effective, hands-off way to invest in owner-occupied residential properties across regional markets.

    If you’re not an accredited investor, crowdfunding platforms like Arrived allows you to enter the real estate market for as little as $100.

    Arrived offers you access to shares of SEC-qualified investments in rental homes and vacation rentals, curated and vetted for their appreciation and income potential.

    Backed by world-class investors like Jeff Bezos, Arrived makes it easy to fit these properties into your investment portfolio regardless of your income level. Their flexible investment amounts and simplified process allows accredited and non-accredited investors to take advantage of this inflation-hedging asset class without any extra work on your part.

    Another popular hedge against inflation with investors is gold, which historically performs well when the market is shaky, and hit an all-time high in early April.

    When you open a gold IRA with the help of Priority Gold, you can roll over existing 401(k) or IRA accounts into a precious metals IRA without tax-related penalties. Qualifying purchases can also receive up to $10,000 in free silver.

    Learn more about why Priority Gold has 5-star reviews on Trustpilot and the Better Business Bureau when you download their free 2024 guide on investing in precious metals.

    Read more: Car insurance premiums could spike 8% by the end of 2025 — thanks to tariffs on car imports and auto parts from Canada and Mexico. But here’s how 2 minutes can save you hundreds of dollars right now

    Nearing retirement

    As you near retirement, market volatility and ongoing inflation can make the road ahead feel precarious, but reacting to short-term turbulence with long-term portfolio changes can be a costly misstep. Instead it can pay to prepare your portfolio for retirement by slowly switching your investments to low-risk options.

    Christine Benz, director of personal finance and retirement planning at Morningstar, told The Post that allocating 25% to 30% of your portfolio to short and intermediate-term bonds is a good approach for those approaching retirement.

    But make sure you don’t give up on growth entirely.

    “Remember that even though retirement is a few years away, that is just the start of retirement,” Corbin Blackwell, senior manager of financial planning at Betterment, told The Post. “For most people, their money needs to last decades, so don’t lose sight of your real-time horizon.”

    If you’re unsure of the best approach for you, it might be worth speaking with a financial advisor who can help craft a retirement strategy that fits your goals — and gives you peace of mind as you step into your next chapter.

    Advisor.com can help you find someone that’s right for you.

    This online platform connects you with vetted financial advisors in minutes. How it works is easy: Just answer a few quick questions about yourself and your finances, and the platform will match you with a financial advisor best suited to helping you make your money last in retirement.

    From here, you can view their profile, read past client reviews and schedule an initial consultation for free with no obligation to hire.

    What to read next

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

  • ‘You will pay more’: Dave Ramsey explains how Trump’s tariffs will impact Americans ‘on a personal level’ — says ‘there’s no question’ prices will go up. Here are 4 ways to help your wallet

    ‘You will pay more’: Dave Ramsey explains how Trump’s tariffs will impact Americans ‘on a personal level’ — says ‘there’s no question’ prices will go up. Here are 4 ways to help your wallet

    We adhere to strict standards of editorial integrity to help you make decisions with confidence. Some or all links contained within this article are paid links.

    While global tensions rise and billion-dollar trade battles make headlines, Brianna from Washington, D.C., had a straightforward question for hosts of The Ramsey Show in a clip posted Feb. 24: "Can you explain how President Trump’s new executive order on tariffs will affect me on a personal level?”

    Don’t miss

    As of April 10, the Trump administration has imposed a baseline 10% tariff on imported goods from most countries, along with a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum products, a 25% tariff on foreign-made cars and auto parts, and a minimum 145% tariff on a number of Chinese goods. There also may be more to come, as Trump put a 90-day pause on previously announced reciprocal tariffs.

    All of this activity has left many ordinary families wondering what it means for their household budget.

    Dave Ramsey and co-host Ken Coleman set clear expectations on tariffs: higher costs for everyone.

    Supercharging the cost of living

    Economists and financial experts broadly agree that the costs of trade barriers and import taxes are eventually passed along to consumers.

    “You will pay more, no question about it, 100%," Ramsey said. "Companies do not eat taxes.”

    For many Americans, these added costs come at a time when they’re already struggling with high living costs. The good news is that while the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017 is set to expire on Dec. 31, 2025, President Trump and Congress are considering extending the program.

    Either way, consumers should brace themselves for higher costs and more uncertainty in the months ahead. If you’re worried about your household budget, consider bolstering your savings and look for domestic alternatives for essential products.

    Here are our four top tips for coping with rising prices.

    1. Cut costs where possible

    This is a great time to review your budget and look for ways to trim your expenses. Even if your grocery bill is on the rise, some of your essentials may be available for cheaper than you’d think.

    For example, shopping around for better insurance rates could save you hundreds of dollars per year. OfficialHomeInsurance.com makes it easy and convenient to browse offers tailored to your needs — from a list of over 200 reputable insurance companies.

    Simply fill in a bit of information and quickly find the coverage you want for the lowest possible cost. In just a few clicks, you could save roughly $482 a year. While you’re saving money on home insurance, you may also consider whether your auto insurance is optimized for coverage and expense.

    OfficialCarInsurance.com helps you instantly sort through the best policies from car insurance providers in your area, including trusted names like Progressive, GEICO and Allstate. With rates as low as $29 per month, you can find coverage that suits your needs and will also potentially save you hundreds of dollars per year.

    To get started, fill in your information and OfficialCarInsurance.com will provide a list of the top insurers in your area.

    Read more: Car insurance premiums could spike 8% by the end of 2025 — thanks to tariffs on car imports and auto parts from Canada and Mexico. But here’s how 2 minutes can save you hundreds of dollars right now

    2. Prioritize your emergency fund

    You probably already know that it’s recommended to have six months of expenses saved in your emergency fund. But with prices rising, it may be tempting to dip into that savings for purchases that aren’t real emergencies.

    To keep your resolve, make sure that cash is still making money by stashing it in a high interest savings account that you can watch grow every month.

    While the national interest rate average is an APY of 0.4%, online banks can offer you much more competitive returns, sometimes 10x more than the national average . So if you’re not shopping around for better rates, you’re leaving money on the table.

    Our top picks for Best High-Yield Savings Accounts of 2025 can help you compare your options and start building your cash reserve more efficiently.

    3. Pay off high-interest debt

    If you’re carrying credit card debt or other high-interest loans, you may be losing out on hundreds of dollars a month in interest fees. You can consider paying down this debt and getting more financial freedom with a reverse mortgage.

    Reverse mortgages let you tap into your home equity to supplement your income, pay off substantial debt or fund renovations. You can choose to borrow the funds as a lump sum or fixed monthly payment — and can spend it however you want.

    Check out this list of industry-leading companies offering reverse mortgages on Money.com.

    Compare offers instantly and request a free information guide to help you understand how to get started.

    4. Continue to invest

    While you may see some of your investments shrinking, a market downturn is a great time to begin investing — as the stock market is cyclical and stock prices have historically bounced back after major dips.

    If you’re new to investing and feel that you need a great deal of time or money to get started, you may be surprised to learn that you can open an investment account with pennies on the dollar — literally!

    Acorns is an automated investing and saving platform that simplifies the process of setting aside extra funds.

    When you sign up and link your bank account, Acorns automatically rounds up the price of each of your purchases to the nearest dollar and deposits the difference into a smart investment portfolio for you, allowing you to grow your wealth without even thinking about it.

    Plus, if you sign up now, you can earn a $20 bonus investment.

    What to read next

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

  • Dave Ramsey warns nearly 50% of Americans are making 1 big Social Security mistake — here’s what it is and 3 simple steps to fix it ASAP

    Dave Ramsey warns nearly 50% of Americans are making 1 big Social Security mistake — here’s what it is and 3 simple steps to fix it ASAP

    We adhere to strict standards of editorial integrity to help you make decisions with confidence. Some or all links contained within this article are paid links.

    With over 30 years of fielding listener calls and cultivating a devoted audience, Dave Ramsey has become one of the rare experts truly in tune with the nation’s financial heartbeat. His company’s surveys and reports deliver unique insights into how Americans earn, save and spend their money.

    Ramsey’s 2023 "Today’s Retirement Crisis" study based on a 2016 survey highlights a surprising statistic — 42% of Americans are not currently saving for the future. This is also reflected in the Fed’s 2022 Survey of Consumer Finances, which shows that only 54.4% of families had retirement accounts.

    "Even among savers, few are setting aside enough to afford a truly secure retirement. In fact, only one-in-10 Americans save 15% or more of their income — the amount industry experts recommend individuals set aside in order to build adequate savings — for retirement," according to the Ramsey Solutions study.

    Don’t miss

    This “alarming” information could indicate that many people are facing dire retirement prospects.

    “Instead of packing their bags for their dream vacations in their 60s and 70s, millions of Americans will be packing their lunch for another day at the office,” Ramsey’s team wrote in a March 2025 update on average retirement savings in the United States.

    Nearly 60% of retired Americans say Social Security is a “major source” of their retirement income, according to Gallup. These benefits typically replace just 40% of pre-retirement income. What’s more, the estimated average monthly Social Security retirement benefit for Jan. 2025 was $1,976, which translates to an annual income of $23,712 — much less than what a comfortable retirement would usually require.

    Here are the three steps you can take to start stitching together a safety net that can protect your golden years.

    1. Create a saving benchmark

    The first step for anyone looking to retire with a comfortable nest egg is to set a benchmark for minimum monthly savings to help secure your future.

    As of Feb. 2025, the U.S. personal savings rate was just 4.6%, according to the Federal Reserve. This is the ratio of personal savings to disposable personal income, and it is simply too low to fund a robust retirement. Ramsey recommends setting the benchmark significantly higher at 15% of gross income. This also assumes you already have an emergency fund and you’re out of debt.

    For example, a person earning $100,000 a year who manages to save 15% of their income and invests it in an asset that delivers 10% returns annually could accumulate roughly $1.5 million within 25 years. This means it’s possible to retire as a millionaire even if you start saving and investing in your early 40s.

    When the market shifts, investors of all stripes look for reliable and safe savings vehicles to cushion their nest egg. Wealthfront’s cash account is designed for those savers. With full access to your money at all times, Wealthfront offers fast and free transfers to Wealthfront investing accounts as well as external accounts.

    You can also check out Moneywise’s top picks for the Best High-Yield Savings Accounts of 2025 to find more options to compare, and start building out your cash reserve more efficiently.

    If you feel like you can’t set aside enough of your income to invest each month, you can still make your purchases productive with Acorns.

    Acorns is an automated investing and saving platform that simplifies the process of setting aside extra funds.

    By signing up and linking your bank account, Acorns automatically rounds up the price of each of your purchases to the nearest dollar and deposits the difference into a smart investment portfolio, allowing you to grow your wealth without even thinking about it.

    Read more: Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now become a landlord for as little as $100 — and no, you don’t have to deal with tenants or fix freezers. Here’s how

    2. Max out tax-advantaged accounts

    Reducing your tax liability could be just as important as maxing out your savings rate. Every penny saved in taxes is another penny that can be used to invest and compound your wealth over time.

    For most people, the best way to mitigate taxes is to utilize tax-advantaged accounts like 401(k)s and Roth IRAs.

    Unfortunately, many Americans neglect these accounts. In 2023, the average defined contribution plan balance was $134,128 while the median balance was just $35,286, according to Vanguard. Those aged 65 and over had an average balance of $272,588 and a median balance of only $88,488.

    None of these balances are enough to fund a secure retirement. But raising your contributions and maxing out these accounts can help you get ahead of your peers.

    Another option to fund your retirement is investing directly in precious metals.

    Gold IRAs allow investors to hold physical gold or gold-related assets within a retirement account, combining the tax advantages of an IRA with the protective benefits of investing in gold. This can make it an attractive option for those looking to potentially hedge their retirement funds against economic uncertainty.

    One way to open a gold IRA is with the help of Thor Metals. They offer a free information guide that includes details on how to get up to $20,000 in free precious metals with qualifying purchases.

    3. Go beyond the bare minimum

    Saving 15% of your gross income and maximizing your tax-advantaged accounts are the bare minimum for a comfortable retirement, according to Ramsey. However, if you’re looking to retire sooner, want a better lifestyle in retirement or simply waited too long to get started you may need to go beyond this minimum threshold.

    Consider adding sources of passive income, such as rental property, to augment your annual earnings. For example, Arrived allows you to invest in shares of rental homes and vacation rentals without taking on the responsibilities of property management or homeownership.

    With Arrived, you can browse a curated selection of homes, each vetted for their appreciation and income potential. Once you find a property you like, you can choose the number of shares you want to buy and start investing in real estate with just $100.

    Finally, it can’t hurt to cover your bases by regularly re-negotiating your salary, or looking for a lateral career change that can earn you more.

    Regardless of your current financial situation, there are usually a few ways to make improvements and boost your chances of a successful retirement —- from investing to budgeting best practices.

    What to read next

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