Kiplinger's Personal Finance Magazine - April 2025

In this issue

Is a Robo Adviser Right for You? - Computer-driven investment advice, frequently paired with some human assistance, is more popular than ever—with more
options than ever, too.
Cleaning Up Can Give You a Lift - Tidying your financial affairs may both lower your stress and save you money.

DON'T PAY MORE THAN NECESSARY TO PREPARE YOUR TAX RETURN

Many DIY taxpayers have access to free options, but whether you qualify depends on the fine print.

3 mins

INTERVIEW: PLANNING SUMMER TRAVEL? YOU'LL HAVE LOTS OF COMPANY

To save money, book your tickets well ahead of time, use technology and avoid popular destinations.

3 mins

HOW TO HELP VICTIMS OF LOS ANGELES WILDFIRES

Recovery could take years, and victims will need assistance long after the fires have been extinguished.

2 mins

THE HIGH STAKES OF A TRADE WAR

INFORMATION ABOUT THE MARKETS AND YOUR MONEY

1 min

IS A ROBO ADVISER RIGHT FOR YOU?

Use our guide to assess the growing array of low-cost, computer-driven investment managers.

10+ mins

TRY THESE TURNAROUND STOCKS

A struggling company with a strong makeover plan can pay off for intrepid investors.

6 mins

TEMPER THE RISK IN YOUR TECH STOCKS

A recent rout in AI stocks has some investors thinking more defensively.

2 mins

How to Survive Market Mayhem

AMONG my missions is to advise smart readers against doing dumb things out of haste or panic.

2 mins

In Defense of Defense Stocks

OVER the past few years, global wars have been on the rise. Russia's invasion of Ukraine, a sovereign European nation, has killed hundreds of thousands and cost hundreds of billions of dollars. The October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas has led to death and destruction not just in Israel and Gaza but in Lebanon, Syria, Yemen and Iran. The Armed Conflict Location & Event Data index shows that global conflicts have doubled in five years.

5 mins

WHAT TO EXPECT IN THE HOUSING MARKET

Most likely, mortgage rates will stay above 6%, and home prices will climb moderately. But that shouldn't dissuade buyers who are ready to make a move.

8 mins

WHAT RETIREES NEED TO KNOW ABOUT TAXES

Take steps to avoid a surprise tax bill and underpayment penalties.

8 mins

Retirees Are Less Satisfied

RECENTLY, I wrote about the results of the Retirement Confidence Survey, conducted annually by the Employee Benefit Research Institute (see \"Living in Retirement,\" Dec.). EBRI followed up with a deeper dive into spending trends among retirees with its 2024 Spending in Retirement Survey. I spoke with Bridget Bearden, research and development strategist with EBRI and author of the study, about its conclusions.

2 mins

FUND INVESTORS: DO A LITTLE DIGGING TO KNOW WHAT YOU OWN

Investors should make sure to read the prospectus carefully and look under the hood at the fund's actual holdings.

4 mins

A Smart Way to Empower People With Disabilities

An ABLE account can improve your loved one’s quality of life.

2 mins

WHY YOU MAY NEED A MEDALLION STAMP

Transferring securities from one account to another often requires this extra step.

2 mins

THE BEST REWARDS CREDIT CARDS

Whether you want simple cash-back rewards or points to put toward travel purchases, we have something for you.

10+ 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.