For decades, American families have been led to believe that college is an attainable dream—an investment in the future that, with a little planning, is within reach. Yet, beneath this reassuring narrative lies a troubling discrepancy: while most parents project confidence at the outset, that belief often dissolves the moment they see the tangible bills.
Personal
In 2025, the shadow of mounting credit card debt casts a long and foreboding pall over the American financial landscape. While many perceive a resilient economy, the reality beneath the surface reveals a fragile equilibrium tipping into perilous territory. Directly from recent reports, the sharp increase in household credit card balances—adding $27 billion in just
When President Donald Trump signed into law the expansion of the SALT deduction cap, many saw it as a win for taxpayers, especially those in high-tax states. The new legislation temporarily raises the allowable deduction from the previous cap to $40,000 starting in 2025, with incremental yearly increases before reverting to the original $10,000 in
For decades, Southwest Airlines has distinguished itself by bucking the airline industry’s standard model: no assigned seats and the commitment to ‘first-come, first-served’ boarding. This approach fostered a sense of fairness among travelers, emphasizing spontaneity and equality. However, recent developments signal a troubling shift—Southwest has begun selling assigned seats, introducing new boarding groups and tiered
In contemporary discourse surrounding retirement readiness, the emphasis on emergency savings as a safeguard for future financial stability is widespread. The narrative subtly implies that a few dollars tucked away can serve as a safety net, preventing premature tapping into retirement accounts. However, this oversimplifies the complex reality faced by many households, especially those reliant
In the face of overwhelming personal tragedy, well-meaning legislation emerges as a beacon of hope, yet often falls short of delivering true empowerment. Consider Brandon Dickerson, a man caught in the cruel aftermath of a ruptured brain aneurysm. His journey from vitality to severe impairment underscores a systemic failure to provide comprehensive support. While new
For more than a decade, Katy Punch dedicated herself to public service, spending her days fostering knowledge as a librarian in North Carolina. Like many, she believed that her commitment would be rewarded with relief from the crushing weight of student debt through the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. This policy, born out of
Despite earning six-figure salaries or more, many Americans are still grappling with financial instability and a persistent sense of unfulfillment. This phenomenon, often labeled as the plight of “HENRYs”—High Earners, Not Rich Yet—exposes a stark disconnect between income and genuine wealth. The narrative that earning a substantial paycheck equates to financial security is fundamentally flawed.
Despite the promising headlines surrounding President Trump’s recent legislative efforts, the reality for student loan borrowers remains far more complicated and burdensome than it appears on paper. The so-called “big beautiful bill” initially seemed to herald a brighter future for those burdened by student debt. It promised certain relief measures, yet beneath this veneer lies
In recent discussions, President Trump’s consideration of abolishing capital gains taxes on home sales has sparked both hope and skepticism among homeowners. While lofty political promises often paint a picture of immediate relief, the reality is far more complex. Relying solely on legislative changes can be risky—politicians may delay, water down, or even abandon such