The anticipated annual raise for workers in 2025 is set to decrease to 4.1%, a drop from the 4.5% seen this year. This change is primarily attributed to the dynamics of the supply and demand of labor, with affordability and industry-specific conditions playing secondary roles. The survey conducted by WTW, a consulting firm, with data
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Despite data indicating a strong U.S. economy, a significant number of Americans believe otherwise. A recent survey conducted by Affirm revealed that 3 out of 5 adults view the country as being in a recession. This perception is fueled by factors such as rising costs and financial difficulties, which have led many to believe that
As the frontrunner for the Democratic nomination following President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the election, Vice President Kamala Harris is under scrutiny for her tax policy proposals. While Harris has not provided a detailed outline of her economic agenda, experts suggest that her vision may align closely with Biden’s plans. This could involve increased taxes
As Gen Xers are reaching age milestones that enable penalty-free access to retirement funds, it is crucial for them to exercise caution when considering early withdrawals. While turning 59½ allows for penalty-free withdrawals from IRAs and 401(k)s, it is important to remember that it should be a last resort. Despite the appeal of accessing these
In a world where pop music reigns supreme, the lyrics and melodies often mirror the society we live in. Today, despite positive economic indicators such as expanding economy and low unemployment rates, recent pop hits tell a different story. Artists like Taylor Swift and Beyoncé have captured the essence of a collective malaise in their
With the looming possibility of Project 2025 coming into effect, there is a lot of speculation about how it will reshape the landscape of U.S. income tax policies and revamp the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The initiative, spearheaded by conservative think tank The Heritage Foundation in collaboration with over 100 other right-leaning organizations, aims to
Recent years have seen a significant increase in the popularity of so-called paycheck advance programs, also known as earned wage access. These programs allow workers to access their paychecks before payday, typically for a fee. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has taken notice of this trend and proposed an interpretive rule stating that these
The Biden administration’s new student loan repayment plan, known as the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) plan, has faced a setback with a federal appeals court temporarily halting its implementation. The St. Louis-based 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals blocked the entire SAVE plan, which was described as “the most affordable student loan plan
The clock is ticking for Social Security’s funds, with projections showing a grim future for the program. The combined trust funds are expected to last until 2035, after which only 83% of benefits will be payable. The retirement benefits fund is even worse off, projected to run out by 2033, leaving only 79% of benefits
Recent studies have shown that workplace engagement is on the decline, with only one-third of employees being actively engaged in their work. This trend has been highlighted in a 2023 Gallup poll, which revealed that roughly 50% of employees are not engaged, while another 16% are actively disengaged. This lack of engagement has led to