Americans are paying more than ever for credit. According to a recent report,1 credit cards now carry an average interest rate of over 17% -- a 35% increase from just five years ago, despite the prevailing low interest rate environment. Yet almost half of cardholders surveyed carry a running balance each month, paying high interest rates on their unpaid balances.

As the end of the year draws near, the last thing anyone wants to think about is taxes. But if you are looking for ways to minimize your tax bill, there's no better time for tax planning than before year-end. That's because there are a number of tax-smart strategies you can implement now that may reduce your tax bill come April 15 or in the years ahead.

The holidays can be a magical time of year, filled with the warmth of family and friends and the joy of giving -- or receiving -- the perfect gift. But if you're not careful, the holidays can also be a financial drain -- leaving bills that linger long after spring has returned.

Americans are woefully unprepared for retirement. As survey after survey has shown, the average person is simply not saving enough to provide for a comfortable retirement. That’s why Congress is currently proposing reforms to retirement plan rules.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, someone turning age 65 today has almost a 70% chance of needing some type of long-term care services and supports in their remaining years. Whether you or your spouse will require long-term care is difficult to predict. But it is wise to consider long-term care insurance and whether it may be a good idea for you.

A closely watched point on the Treasury yield curve has fallen negative for the first time in this economic cycle.