Kiplinger's Personal Finance Magazine - February 2025

In this issue

Get The Right Advice In Retirement - Big financial services firms want to help you manage your money. We show you how to evaluate the options.

Infrastructure Stocks and Funds to Buy Now.

Show You Care With Smart Planning

WHEN I assigned an article on estate planning for our February issue, I wasn't thinking about wrapping it into a Valentine's Day theme; it's not a topic that sparks thoughts of romance.

2 mins

HOW THE SECOND TRUMP TERM COULD AFFECT YOUR FINANCES

Income tax cuts are likely to be extended, but electric vehicle tax credits could disappear.

3 mins

CONFRONTING THE CHALLENGES FACING THE U.S.RETIREMENT SYSTEM

Many still lack access to a workplace retirement plan.

2 mins

MEDICARE PART B PREMIUMS TO RISE 6% IN 2025

But out-of-pocket costs for Part D prescription drugs will be capped at $2,000.

3 mins

CALENDAR FEBRUARY 2025

Today is Valentine's Day.

1 min

BITCOIN GETS A POST-ELECTION BOOST

Donald Trump's victory in the presidential election has been a boon for bitcoin.

1 min

WHAT TO DO WITH UNUSED GIFT CARDS

According to a recent Bankrate survey, 43% of Americans have at least one unused gift card sitting around and following the December holidays, you may find yourself among them.

1 min

FREE (OR CHEAP) COLLEGE COURSES FOR RETIREES

Across the country, retirees can take advantage of free (or close to it) college courses for older residents at various public and private institutions.

1 min

CASH IN ON THE INFRASTRUCTURE - BUILDING BOOM

Consider these stocks and funds to make the most of the U.S industrial renaissance.

10 mins

THE PROS AND CONS OF PRIVATE DEBT

Acting as banker to nonpublic companies can be lucrative for intrepid investors.

6 mins

IS A LOST DECADE AHEAD FOR STOCKS?

Some Wall Street strategists foresee stagnant returns, but not all agree.

4 mins

How to Hedge Against Tariffs

In keeping with the newly elected president's motto of \"promises made, promises kept,\" Donald Trump can be expected to boost tariffs on imports in the coming months.

4 mins

Aim for the Middle of the Curve

THE interest rate picture is clearing up, and so is my judgment as to where to find the most reward for the least risk.

2 mins

ESTATE PLANNING - Protect Your Wishes and Your Legacy

NO one likes to imagine getting seriously ill, injured or worse, but these occurrences are a reality of life.

10+ mins

CHECK YOUR COLLEGE'S FINANCIAL HEALTH

Declining enrollment has forced a growing number of small colleges to shut down.

8 mins

SHIELD YOURSELF FROM FRAUD

RECENTLY, one of my clients shared a harrowing experience.

2 mins

GET THE RIGHT ADVICE IN RETIREMENT

If you've saved up a decent-size nest egg with a financial services firm, chances are good it has offered you financial advice-for a price. Is it worth it?

7 mins

Lessons for Retirement Success

CHRISTINE Benz is director of personal finance and retirement planning for Morningstar and author of How to Retire: 20 Lessons for a Happy, Successful, and Wealthy Retirement (see a related podcast at Morningstar .​com).

2 mins

WATCH OUT FOR NUDGES THAT STEER YOU TO TRADE TOO MUCH

ANYONE who has shopped for groceries with a toddler knows to be on high alert for the impulse items the store has thoughtfully placed at a child's eye height.

4 mins

Give the Gift of Life Insurance

Show your love for your sweetheart by protecting against disaster.

2 mins

A TOOL 10 ADD 10 YOUR ID THEFT ARSENAL

Credit-monitoring services can help you detect fraud quickly.

2 mins

THE ALLURE OF SHOULDER SEASON TRAVEL

SHOULDER season can be a great time for a vacation.

9 mins

Read all stories from Kiplinger's Personal Finance

Kiplinger's Personal Finance Magazine Description:

Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting on your financial journey, Kiplinger's Personal Finance offers guidance tailored to your needs. From tips on saving for college and buying a home to optimizing your portfolio and planning for a secure retirement, the magazine equips readers with the knowledge and tools to achieve financial stability and prosperity.

With a legacy spanning over 70 years, Kiplinger's Personal Finance has been a go-to resource for individuals seeking practical advice, expert insights, and valuable tips to manage their money effectively.

Within the pages of Kiplinger's Personal Finance, you'll find a wealth of information on topics such as budgeting, investing, retirement planning, taxes, and much more. The magazine offers a mix of engaging articles, expert analysis, and real-life success stories, providing readers with actionable strategies to navigate the complexities of personal finance.

Discover the power of Kiplinger's Personal Finance and unlock the secrets to financial success. Let the magazine be your trusted companion as you embark on a path toward financial well-being and take control of your financial future.