Americans are more dependent on their tax refund than in years past 

This year, tax refunds have served as a lifeline for many Americans who are dependent on this windfall to make ends meet. While some people think of their tax refund as “free money,” today’s cost of living has made it so many have less of a choice in how they use those funds.  According to […] Continue reading

Cuts at the IRS spark refund worries and could invoke reckless behavior among some taxpayers 

As tax season rolls around, many Americans brace themselves for the stress and complexities that can come with filing, but this tax season brings an added layer of uncertainty with recent cuts at the IRS. While many fear potential delays in receiving their refunds, some see it as an opportunity to take risks, making this […] Continue reading

Supermarket struggle: Rising costs force unhealthy choices, skipped meals, and financial challenges 

Weekly grocery hauls cost a lot more than they used to, and it’s dramatically impacting Americans, from resorting to unhealthy options and skipped meals to general financial strain. Whether it’s feeding a family of six or dinner for one, the rising cost of essentials is not only changing the way consumers shop and budget, but […] Continue reading

The Tariff effect: Spending habits are split among Americans 

The flurry of tariff announcements that have taken place these past few months have Americans on notice, with many adjusting their wallets as a result.  According to a new study conducted by Qualtrics on behalf of Intuit Credit Karma among 2,000+ U.S. adults ages 18 and older, roughly three quarters of Americans (73%) say they […] Continue reading

Gen Z feels burned after taking financial advice from social media

When TikTok exploded in popularity during the pandemic, many Americans started posting and consuming content around choreographed dances, baking bread and “get ready with me” videos. But over time, social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram and YouTube have become go-to destinations young people turn to for information about more serious topics like mental health, foreign […] Continue reading

The high stakes of sports betting: financial fallout and family strain

The rise of sports betting has made placing bets easier than ever, but the hidden cost of this convenience – both financial and emotional – is far reaching. Factor in major events like the Super Bowl and March Madness, and what starts as a friendly wager can quickly spiral into a dangerous cycle of gambling […] Continue reading

Many millennials rely on tax refund to make ends meet; tax filing brings Gen Z and self-employed to tears

January 27 marks the official opening of the IRS, but the “scaries” are in full effect as many Americans dread filing, and for some, their looming tax bill. While plenty of Americans wait until the last minute to file, many taxpayers eagerly await their refund out of necessity.  According to a new study conducted by […] Continue reading

America’s sandwich generation grapples with a lower quality of life

Adulting is hard. It brings forth new roles and responsibilities that can feel like you’re carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders. Yet, it likely doesn’t compare to the many Americans who shoulder double the burden – providing caregiving and financial support to both their child(ren) and parents/relatives, also commonly known as the […] Continue reading

Americans had a savings problem in 2024, but commit to better financial habits in the new year 

The new year symbolizes a fresh start, but for the countless Americans heading into 2025 with debt, that might be wishful thinking. According to a new study conducted online by The Harris Poll on behalf of Intuit Credit Karma among 2,092 U.S. adults ages 18 and older, 70% of Americans have financial regrets from 2024, […] Continue reading

Social media aesthetics like “Old Money” drive many young Americans to spend 

Time and time again, social media platforms drive spending sprees among America’s youth. While rightful blame often points to sophisticated algorithms and seamless, few-click checkout experiences, the lure may also stem from culture – what’s hot right now, and who is promoting it?  According to a new study conducted online by The Harris Poll on […] Continue reading