For most families, few things affect daily life as noticeably as gas prices. Recently, gas prices in the Birmingham area have seen a significant jump, with Alabama’s average exceeding $3.40 per gallon, and the national average surpassing $3.70. These spikes are often driven by global factors beyond our control, such as recent volatility in Middle […]
A report from Vanguard in 2026 highlights that a record 6% of 401(k) participants withdrew funds from their accounts for financial hardships in 2025. This marks a steady increase from 4.8% in 2024 and 3.6% in 2023. While having access to these funds can serve as an important safety net, withdrawals should generally be considered […]
The sports world recently said goodbye to coaching legend Lou Holtz, who passed away on March 4th, 2026. His passing has led many to reflect on the lasting impact he made. Holtz was known not only for his success on the field but also for the wisdom he imparted that stayed with people long after […]
Spring is the peak season for the residential real estate market. As the weather warms, curb appeal improves, more homes become available, and families aim to relocate before the new school year begins. Buyers motivated by early-year goals or those who receive tax refunds and bonuses often dive into the market during this season as […]
Valentine’s Day may have come and gone, but it left me thinking about another influential relationship that can shape both your daily life and your future: your relationship with money. For many people, it’s complicated. Money can bring stress, guilt, or even the urge to avoid checking in at all, especially when life is busy […]
Like many people, I have not always had a clear vision of where my career would ultimately lead. I grew up in a family of medical providers, so for a long time, I assumed I would follow a similar path. However, that expectation quickly faded when I realized two things: I don’t particularly handle blood […]
Valentine’s Day is a moment to appreciate love and your relationships. While money isn’t the most romantic topic, it is one of the most practical ones because it affects so many of the decisions you make together. This simple financial checklist is designed to help married couples create clarity, work together, reduce surprises, and avoid […]
Why 2025 Tax Refunds May Be Higher If you’re filing your 2025 tax return in early 2026, you may notice your refund looks larger than expected. One reason may be the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), signed into law in July of 2025. This legislation made several Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) elements […]
Catch-up contributions can give you a chance to boost your retirement savings, especially if earlier years were focused on family needs, career growth, or major expenses like a mortgage. As of January 1, 2026, 401(k) catch-up contributions for people age 50 and older may work a bit differently than they have in the past. Financial […]
In college football, the end of the season brings a familiar routine: coaches review film, evaluate the roster, make adjustments, and quickly begin preparing for what’s next. The past season, good or bad, becomes a learning tool, not a destination. The start of a new year can serve a similar purpose in your financial life. […]