Personal Finance
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Jean Folger is a freelance writer and editor specializing in real estate, retirement, investing, and other personal finance topics. She is passionate about helping people make better financial choices so they have more money and time to spend on the things that matter most. She believes investing in your health—whether to eat well, hit the gym, or try a new sport—is as important as saving for retirement.
Articles by Jean Folger
5 Best Self Directed IRAs for November 2024
You can use a self-directed IRA to invest in alternative assets like real estate and private equity. Learn more.
What Is the Secure Act 2.0?
President Biden signed the SECURE Act 2.0 into law in late 2022, bringing dozens of new provisions aimed at making it easier to save money and better prepare for retirement.
Open-End vs. Closed-End Funds: Differences & How To Choose
Open-end and closed-end funds are professionally managed portfolios that can provide diversification, but there are some key differences to consider before investing.
Should You Reinvest Dividends? A Practical Guide
Cash dividends provide immediate income, while dividend reinvestment lets you take advantage of the power of compounding. Learn the pros and cons of dividend reinvestment and DRIPs.
What is an FHA Loan?
FHA loans can be easier to qualify for than conventional loans, making them a good option if you have a lower credit score, higher debt, or a smaller down payment.
Venmo vs. PayPal: Which Is Your Best Option?
Venmo and PayPal are two of the most popular P2P payment apps. Here's what you need to know to decide if either is right for you.
5 Best Peer-to-Peer Lending Platforms for Investors
Peer-to-peer lending platforms connect individual investors with people and businesses needing money. Here’s how they work.
6 Proven Strategies To Invest In Real Estate in 2024
Real estate can be a lucrative investment, whether you invest directly in properties or indirectly through REITs, REIGs, and crowdfunding. Here are six ways to invest in real estate.
Private Banking: What It Is and How It Works
Private banking extends personalized financial services and higher yields on deposit accounts, but you’ll need to meet minimum asset requirements to qualify.
10 Best Index Funds for 2024
Index funds bundle a basket of securities into a single investment offering steady, low-cost growth. Learn more.
What Is A Custodial Account?
A custodial account can help you save and invest on a child's behalf until they're old enough to take it over.
Mega Backdoor Roth: What Is It, How It Works, What to Consider
A mega backdoor Roth lets you save an extra $43,500 in 2023, but not all workplace plans allow them.
How to Calculate the Return on Your CD
Thinking about opening a CD? Here's how to determine the interest you'll earn based on the CD deposit amount, term, and interest rate.
Masterworks Review 2024: Investing in Fine Art Made Effortless
Masterworks makes fine art investments accessible to a broader audience by offering fractional shares and handling the research, acquisition, management, and sale of artworks.
How to Accept Credit Card Payments as a Small Business
Most consumers prefer paying with a credit or debit card instead of cash. Here's how to accept cards so you don't miss out on sales.
Where to Keep Your Emergency Fund?
An emergency fund helps you stay afloat when facing unexpected expenses, without having to rely on high-interest loans or credit cards. Here are the best places to park your emergency fund.
How to Make Money on Instagram in 2024
Instagram influencers can earn hundreds or thousands of dollars per month. Learn the top five ways to make money on Instagram in 2024.
Small Cap Stocks: All You Need to Know
Small-cap stocks have market caps between $250 million and $2 billion. They can bring diversification and higher growth potential to your portfolio—but also risk. Here's what you need to know.
Equity Crowdfunding: What Is It, How Does It Work?
Equity crowdfunding is a way for startups and private businesses to raise capital online by offering equity ownership in exchange for a stake in the company.
How to Start an Online Business in 8 Steps
There’s never been an easier time to start an online business. Here are tips to help you choose a business model, write a business plan, develop your brand, and more.
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