John F. Wasik, Contributor Oct. 13, 2021 The Social Security Cost-of-Living Adjustment, or COLA, is going to be 5.9% next year. While that’s a nice bump for retirement benefits, don’t order the party favors just yet. Sure, everyone wants to keep pace with the cost of living. And Social Security is one of the few government programs to do that. Your 401(k) and IRA withdrawals are not indexed to inflation. You get dinged even more when you pay income taxes on that money. Keep i

Ron Carson, Contributor Oct. 12, 2021 The month of October is known for a lot of things, shorter days, cooler temperatures, falling leaves and the arrival of pumpkin spice everything—from baked goods to coffee, yogurt, smoothies, beer—and yes, even pumpkin spice turkey. It also marks the start of Medicare’s annual open enrollment period, which begins on October 7 and ends on December 15, 2021. Why is the start of open enrollment important? Even if you’re years away from eligi

Roger Whitney, Contributor Oct. 11, 2021 If you're within 5 years of retiring, you have a window of opportunity. Don't miss it. A little intentionality now can set the stage for a successful retirement. Years ago, I planned a backpacking trip through the Grand Tetons in Wyoming. I started by casting my vision for my adventure: the trails I'd hike, the team I'd work with, the sights I wanted to see. Then I started working on the logistics and assessing my equipment, deciding o

What do you think of those five words! Pretty inspiring, and according to Asher, this is our family motto! One of his history projects was to create a 'Coat of Arms', with the definitions and meanings of each, and also to develop a family motto. He did such a great job! Speaking of a Coat of Arms and Family Motto's, November 11th is Veterans Day; we would love it if you join us at HFC in honoring current, former, widows and family members of the US Armed Forces, also Fire and