Before I became a Chief Investment Officer and financial advisor, I spent a good chunk of my life competing in various sports. As a competitor you don’t stop competing. You're always looking for the optimal strategy, the best outcome, and the smartest way to protect your family's future.
Congratulations, graduates! You've worked hard, gained valuable skills, and are now standing on the precipice of an exciting new chapter. Whether you've earned a degree or a trade certification, you're about to embark on your first career job, and with it, your first taste of substantial income. This pivotal moment presents a unique and often overlooked opportunity to lay a financial foundation that will change your life.
It's that time of year again when most General Motors employees are eligible to receive their annual profit-sharing check at the end of February (2026). This year, approximately 47,000 U.S. hourly workers will receive $10,500 in profit-sharing. Although this is the lowest profit sharing since 2022, this is a major annual event for many General Motors employees.
It's that time of year again when most Ford Motor Company employees will be eligible to receive their annual profit-sharing check on March 12, 2026. This year, approximately 56,300 U.S. hourly workers will receive up to $6,780 in profit sharing.
When it comes to planning for your education, there is no better vehicle than a 529. A 529 is a tax-advantaged account designed to help pay for education. 529 Plans grow tax-deferred, and withdrawals are tax-free if they are used for qualified educational expenses. The downside if proceeds are not used for qualified educational expenses, any earnings will come out as ordinary income and a 10% penalty is tacked on. However, recent legislative changes now allow for greater flexibility with leftover or unused 529 plan funds!
Will Social Security benefits be lost? While the program has long been underfunded, those already receiving or nearing retirement benefits are unlikely to be affected. Several policy changes, such as raising the retirement age or increasing payroll taxes, could stabilize the system, but younger individuals should prepare for saving for retirement now.
General Motors employees will be eligible to receive their annual profit-sharing check in February. This year, approximately 45,000 U.S. hourly workers will receive up to $14,500 in profit sharing. Here are the 4 steps you should take once you receive this check.