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Prices, rules and advice written for readers in United States.
33 articles · page 1 of 2
401(k) and IRA contribution limits 2027: $25,500 expected
2027 401(k) limits are projected at $25,500 with an $8,500 catch-up and $11,750 for ages 60–63; IRA stays near $7,500. Official 2026 figures, the Roth catch-up rule and what to do now.
How much life insurance do I need? 3 ways to work it out
Most families need 10–15 times income in term life insurance, but the right number depends on debts, kids and savings. Use the DIME method, a worked example and avoid the common mistakes.
HSA contribution limits 2027: $4,500 self-only, $9,000 family
The IRS set 2027 HSA limits at $4,500 for self-only and $9,000 for family coverage, plus a $1,000 catch-up at 55. HDHP deductible rules, deadlines and the triple tax break explained.
PMI explained: what it costs and how to get rid of it faster
Private mortgage insurance costs about 0.3%–1.5% of the loan a year when you put under 20% down. How PMI is priced, when it must end, FHA MIP rules and five ways to remove it sooner.
Social Security COLA 2027: 3.6% raise — what you'll actually get
Social Security benefits rise 3.6% in January 2027, about $75 a month on average. See your new amount, the 2027 earnings limits and tax cap, and why Medicare can shrink the raise.
AT&T data breach settlement: payment date, how much you'll get
The $177 million AT&T data breach settlement got final court approval on 2 October 2026. Who gets paid, estimated amounts for each tier, when payments may arrive, and how to avoid settlement scams.
Heat pump vs furnace: cost, efficiency and which to pick
A heat pump costs about $6,500–$13,000 installed and also cools; a gas furnace runs $5,000–$7,500. Here's how to pick the right one for your home.
15 ways to lower your electric bill in winter
From thermostat setbacks that save up to 10% to cold-water laundry and sealing drafts, here are 15 proven ways to cut your winter electric and heating bill.
401(k) and IRA contribution limits for 2026 (full table)
2026 limits: $24,500 401(k), $8,000 catch-up at 50+, $11,250 at 60–63, $7,500 IRA + $1,100 catch-up. Roth income limits, deduction phase-outs and the new Roth catch-up rule.
AC replacement cost in 2026: prices by size, SEER2 and brand
A new central AC costs $2,500–$7,500 installed; a 3-ton system runs about $3,000–$6,500. Prices by tonnage and SEER2, the refrigerant change, repair-or-replace rule and ways to save.
Attic insulation cost in 2026: blown-in, batts and spray foam
Blown-in attic insulation costs about $1.60–$2.75 per sq ft ($1,600–$2,750 for 1,000 sq ft); spray foam $3.80–$6.75. R-values by climate, air sealing, savings, DIY vs pro and rebates.
Bathroom remodel cost in 2026: prices by size, item and scope
A bathroom remodel averages about $15,600; most cost $6,500–$24,700. Small baths $12,700–$14,800, primary suites $22,400+. Item costs, timelines, ROI and ways to save.
Best thermostat settings for winter to save money
Set about 68°F when you're home, then 7–10°F lower overnight or while out — that can save up to 10% a year. Here's a schedule, plus heat pump tips.
Deck cost in 2026: price per square foot by material and size
A pro-built deck costs about $30–$60 per sq ft: $4,300–$8,600 for 12x12 and $9,600–$19,200 for 16x20. Wood vs composite, add-on costs, permits, upkeep and ROI.
Fence installation cost in 2026: price per foot by material
A new fence typically costs $2,000–$5,000, about $15–$25 per linear foot installed. Wood, vinyl, chain link, composite and iron compared, plus gates, permits, lifespan and savings.
Garage door replacement cost in 2026: single, double and openers
A single garage door costs $500–$2,500 and a double $750–$4,000 installed; about $1,200 on average. Materials, insulation, openers, repairs vs replacement and why it's a top resale project.
How credit scores work: FICO score ranges and what moves them
FICO scores run 300–850; 670+ is good and 740+ gets the best rates. The 5 factors and their weights, how to check free, fix errors and raise your score fast.
How much does a new furnace cost in 2026? Prices by fuel type
A new gas furnace typically costs $5,000–$7,500 installed for an average home. See prices for gas, electric, oil and propane, plus what raises a quote.
How much does it cost to run a space heater? (2026)
A 1,500-watt space heater costs about 27¢ an hour at the 2026 US average rate — around $65 a month at 8 hours a day. Here's the math for yours.
How to prevent frozen pipes (and what to do if they freeze)
Keep heat at 55°F or higher, let exposed faucets drip and insulate pipes in cold spaces. Here's a full checklist, plus how to thaw a frozen pipe safely.
How to stop spam calls: 8 steps that actually cut robocalls
Join the Do Not Call Registry, turn on your carrier's free spam blocking, silence unknown callers on iPhone or Android, report numbers to the FTC and never press 1. Step-by-step.
Kitchen remodel cost in 2026: minor, midrange and major budgets
Most kitchen remodels cost $14,600–$41,600 (about $27,000 on average); a minor remodel ~$28,500, major midrange ~$83,000. Costs by item, ROI, budget plans and how to save.
LLC vs sole proprietorship: which is right for your business?
A sole proprietorship is free and simple but leaves your personal assets exposed. An LLC adds liability protection for $50–$500 to start plus yearly fees. Taxes, costs by state, when to switch.
Mold removal cost in 2026: prices by area and when to DIY
Professional mold remediation costs $1,200–$3,750 (about $2,300 average), or $10–$25 per sq ft. Costs by room, testing, the EPA 10 sq ft rule, insurance, and how to stop mold coming back.