Kathy Hilton

Introduction to the IRS’s Special Refund for Taxpayers in 2025 In December 2024, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issued an important reminder to approximately one million taxpayers who may still be eligible for a special refund. This refund, which can be as high as $1,400, is available to individuals who did not file a tax Continue reading

Governor Kathy Hochul’s promise to provide inflation relief checks to New York residents in 2025 has sparked a mix of hope and skepticism. Originally slated for delivery in February, the payments have been delayed due to budgetary talks and logistical hurdles, leaving many wondering whether these economic benefits will truly come to fruition. The $500 Continue reading

A growing number of Americans are tapping into their retirement savings earlier than ever before, reflecting the financial strain that many households are facing, despite strong employment numbers. According to recent data from Vanguard Group, in 2024, 4.8% of 401(k) account holders accessed their funds for hardship withdrawals, marking an all-time high. This figure represents Continue reading

If you live in Alaska, now is the time to apply for the 2025 Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) stimulus checks, which could provide significant financial relief later this year. These checks, derived from the state’s oil revenues, play a crucial role in supporting Alaskan residents. But how much can you expect to receive, and what Continue reading

In a significant policy shift, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced that starting March 27, 2025, it will revert to a 100% default withholding rate for overpaid Social Security benefits. This decision comes after concerns over the SSA’s previous practice of withholding only 10% of monthly checks. With this drastic change, beneficiaries who receive Continue reading

Introduction As you prepare for retirement, you may feel as though life will continue much the same way it always has. However, one crucial aspect that many retirees overlook is how their spending habits will change once they stop working. Retirement is often a time of lifestyle adjustment, and with those changes come opportunities to Continue reading

Ensuring uninterrupted Social Security payments is vital for millions of retirees across the United States. For many, Social Security is more than just a supplement—it’s a lifeline that helps cover essential living expenses like housing, food, and healthcare. However, as we move into 2025, retirees may face unexpected suspensions of their benefits if they fail Continue reading

Every year, millions of Americans claim the Child Tax Credit to reduce their tax burden, but small errors can delay your refund or even result in losing the credit entirely. In 2024, the Child Tax Credit can offer you up to $2,000 per child under 17, but the process isn’t as simple as it seems. Continue reading

The UK government’s Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has unveiled a new proposal that could reshape the future of sickness benefits for millions of claimants. These reforms aim to tighten the eligibility criteria, which could affect as many as 1.3 million people currently receiving benefits. For those who rely on these payments, whether temporarily Continue reading