In theory, the maximum possible Social Security benefit in 2021 for someone who retires at full retirement age is $3,148, up 2.6% YoY. However, in order to collect the maximum benefit, you would need to earn the maximum taxable amount for 35 total years. Given the maximum taxable amount was $142,800 for 2021, this was no easy feat. According […]
The Average Social Security Benefit Is Not Enough For Retirement Read More »
Here are the best rewards credit cards for your review. I’ve spent dozens of hours analyzing the best cash back and sign-up bonuses today. There once was a time I was rich, but never famous as I traveled internationally four times a year for business. Each destination hosted loads of other folks who wanted to
Who Should Get A Black Card? Probably Not You! Read More »
Are you wondering: What should I do before quitting my job? You’re in the right place because I “quit” my job in 2012 and have never been back! Whether you are a millennial with ADD or a parent going through a mid-life crisis, it’s natural to want to do something new after a while. I
What Should I Do Before Quitting My Job? 15 Things To Consider Read More »
Did you know that 41 states currently do not tax Social Security benefits? Both Missouri and Nebraska decided to stop taxing Social Security benefits in 2024. Now that you know, it behooves all of us to retire to states with fantastic weather, great food, and amazing scenery when it’s time to collect Social Security! Taxes and ever-rising
States That Don’t Tax Social Security Benefits Read More »
The majority of us are middle class, defined as neither rich nor poor. Seriously, that’s the official definition of middle class, because depending on who you talk to and where they live, you’ll get different answers. A $50,000 household income for a family of four is absolutely middle class in Des Moines, Iowa. However, in
What’s A Middle-Class Income? Bet You Don’t Know! Read More »
Over the years, many readers have asked, “What does it take to become a Financial Samurai? Do you have a set of core principles to follow?” I resisted putting anything formal together because to do so felt a little bit arrogant and presumptuous. But after 15 years of running Financial Samurai and having over 1,000
Way Of The Financial Samurai: Core Principles For Achieving Financial Independence Read More »
According to the Federal Reserve’s Survey of Consumer Finances, the average US household net worth is a whopping $692,100! And that’s based on data from 2016, when the stock market and real estate markets were much lower. Therefore, the average household net worth in America in 2022 is likely at least 20% higher, or close
The Average Household Net Worth In America Is Huge! Read More »
These are the best rewards credit cards today. They have the best cash back credit card rewards and the highest sign-up bonuses. I used to receive a ton of credit card solicitations in the mail until I finally put my address on the do not spam list. Some of the credit card rewards offers really
Don’t Let A Credit Card Rewards Program Change Your Spending Habits Read More »
Let’s look at ways to add more income to a retirement portfolio. After all, as a retiree, your main goal is to live off your passive income so you don’t ever have to work again. I retired in 2012 with about $80,000 in passive income. However, now that I have a non-working spouse and two
Ways To Add More Income To A Retirement Portfolio Read More »
Augh, someone just stole your credit card. Now what? Well this happened to me recently. Just when I said nothing much happens with my credit card, somebody goes ahead and steals my credit card! But perhaps “stealing” is the wrong word to use in this situation, so let me clarify. Then I’ll cover the steps
Someone Stole My Credit Card – What To Do? Read More »
