Ask Carrie
The personal side of money
Retirement
Should I File for Social Security Now or Later?
You don’t have to file for Social Security the moment you retire. In fact, most people will benefit by waiting.
Have You Considered These 4 Retirement Risks?
There are many unknowns when it comes to planning for retirement. Make sure you have a plan to address the biggest risks.
Gig Workers: How Are You Managing Your Money?
As an independent contractor, you're not only your own boss, you're your own CFO. And there's a lot to think about.
Need a Retirement Plan for Your Small Business?
Own a small business? Don't miss out on these opportunities to save for retirement and decrease taxable income.
Can I Afford to Live My Retirement Dream?
Retirement can be an opportunity to make big changes—provided you also take care to protect your finances.
Have You Made Your 3 Big Medicare Decisions?
Medicare can be complicated, but there are just three big decisions you need to make when turning 65.
Investing
Should You Care About Rising Interest Rates?
Will rising interest rates affect you personally? Most likely. No need to panic, but best to be aware.
Spooked by Market Declines? Don't Panic—S.T.O.P.
When it comes to investing, our emotions are not our friend. Instead of panicking, S.T.O.P.
What Can Fishing Teach Us About Investing?
What can a new investor learn from fishing? You might be surprised.
Explore more topics
Saving and budgeting
Say Yes to the Dress… But No to the Rest
Despite pricing and social pressures, you can still have a memorable and beautiful wedding without breaking the bank.
Can You Tactfully Give Mom—or Dad—Financial Help?
Parents may not be comfortable being on the receiving end of financial help, but there's a way to do it tactfully.
Stock Market Investing Is—and Isn't—Black & White
The 2022 Schwab-Ariel Black Investor Survey shows both progress and opportunities for addressing wealth inequality.
How Can We Boost Teens' Financial Literacy?
We've made progress in teaching our nation's teens about money, but there's much more to do.
Gig Workers: How Are You Managing Your Money?
As an independent contractor, you're not only your own boss, you're your own CFO. And there's a lot to think about.
Budget Busters and Boosters for a Fresh Start
The new year can be the ideal time to give your finances a fresh look—and a fresh start.
College-Bound Student? It's Time to Fill out the FAFSA®!
Don't assume you won't qualify for college financial aid; file the FAFSA® early to maximize your opportunities.
First Steps for Your Baby’s Financial Future
New baby? There's a lot to think about—including your child's financial future. College is a major savings goal, but there's even more to consider.
Help! My Student Loans Are Due Again!
With the right strategy, you can pay off debt while at the same time building a strong financial foundation.
Is Your Lifestyle Creeping Up on You?
Making more money but not sure where it's going? Don't let lifestyle creep catch you by surprise.
Taxes
Paying for College: Are Scholarships Taxable?
Scholarship money is generally tax-free provided the student is a candidate for a degree at an eligible institution and the money is used to pay for qualified expenses.
Is Rental Income From a Vacation Home Taxable?
Renting out a vacation home part-time can mean extra income. But remember, Uncle Sam wants some of it too!
Does Your Teen Need to File a Tax Return?
Whether or not your teen needs to file a tax return, a first job and first investments can be a great start to their financial education.
For families and couples
