Understanding the Appeal Process While some highly selective colleges may have strict policies, most colleges treat the appeals process as a negotiation, even if they don’t label it as such. Students should approach it as an appeal or request for reconsideration rather than a negotiation to avoid negative connotations. Recognizing that it is, in essence, a negotiation can empower students to better navigate the process.
The changes to the FAFSA over the past two years open the door to more reasons to file this annual financial aid form for college students.
Your investment strategy may need to change, too. No longer are you saving for a date that is many years away. Now you are going to need to begin drawing on your assets to replace your income and that may have to continue for many years before Social Security benefits begins to kick in. Long term drawdowns of this type can increase the risk that your investments may not recover as easily if you keep an aggressive investment approach.
Are you ready for retirement? You may hear this question often as you enter your late 50’s and early 60’s. It is a loaded question with many elements to consider: the conclusion of your career; where/how you will live; your emotional readiness to face this milestone; your health status; changes in family dynamics and work social connections; opportunity for more leisure time and travel; and last but not least, financial readiness. This blog focuses on financial readiness and how you can be financially better prepared to retire.
These 3 tips will not only keep your child out of the red financially, but also reduce the money stresses that can derail their college experience
A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) can be an attractive option for homeowners looking for short-term financing. However, it’s important to understand that a HELOC isn't suitable for everyone. Years ago, I spoke with a man that had a good size 1st mortgage as well as a HELOC. The HELOC was used to buy two cars and to travel. Not ideal.