All Posts By

Tarra Jackson

How Health Care and Surgery Compare Between America and Panama

By Money Management No Comments

 Read about one person’s experience with knee replacement surgery in each country. 

Doctors perform surgery on a patient in a hospital operating room
Satyrenko / Shutterstock.com

My mom’s knee had been giving her trouble for years. By the time she finally saw a doctor, there was barely any cartilage left — it was just bone grinding on bone. Back in 2021, my parents were living in the Pacific Northwest. My mom’s doctor, chosen because of proximity and her insurance, decided that a knee replacement was her best option. Before the surgery could happen, she had to go…

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What Happens When the Keys to AI Change Hands?

By Money Management No Comments

 Big Tech’s AI feud could reshape your digital life, from what you see to what you pay. Here’s what’s shifting. 

Meta headquarters -- Menlo Park, California
askarim / Shutterstock.com

Meta, the parent company of Facebook, just spent $14.3 billion to buy nearly half of Scale AI; the deal is prompting Google to reevaluate its AI partnerships. Scale AI might not be a household name, but it’s the behind-the-scenes powerhouse that helps train AI (artificial intelligence) models through reinforcement learning from human feedback. The shakeup could influence how tech giants train…

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4 Smart Estate Planning Strategies the Ultra-Rich Swear By

By Uncategorized No Comments
[[{“value”:”Image source: Getty Images
High-net-worth families don’t leave anything to chance. They use estate planning not only to distribute wealth, but to protect it — from the IRS, from court battles, and sometimes even from their own heirs.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. If you have a house, retirement savings, or kids, a smart plan matters more than you think. And you don’t need millions in the bank to get started. You only need the right tools and a little strategy.1. Trusts built for more than just probateThe ultra-rich love trusts because they give control and protection that wills can’t match.A revocable living trust avoids probate and keeps your affairs private.A dynasty trust can pass wealth down for generations, skipping estate taxes along the way.Spousal Lifetime Access Trusts (SLATs) let couples remove assets from their estate without losing all access to the money.These strategies used to be reserved for the 1%, but now, many attorneys are building trust-based plans for regular families, too.Want to know what type of trust is right for your situation? With our partner, SmartAsset, you can get matched with up to three fiduciary advisors so you can get professional advice.2. Life insurance that doubles as a wealth transfer toolPermanent life insurance can be a tax-free way to pass money down to loved ones. Many high-net-worth families own their policies inside an irrevocable life insurance trust (ILIT) to keep the death benefit out of their taxable estate.It’s a powerful play:Pays out income-tax freeAvoids estate taxHelps heirs cover taxes or debts without selling off family assetsThis isn’t just about coverage — it’s about control.3. Gifting early to shrink future tax billsRight now, you can give away $18,000 per year, per person (as of 2025) without touching your lifetime exemption. Couples can double that. Many wealthy families use this rule to move serious money out of their estate while they’re still alive.Bonus: The current federal estate tax exemption is scheduled to drop in 2026, which means now may be the smartest time to act.Not sure how much you should give or how gifting impacts your estate? Our partner SmartAsset’s no-cost quiz makes it easier to find a fiduciary financial advisor.4. Family LLCs to pass wealth and keep controlWealthy families often bundle their investments, real estate, or even business interests into a family limited liability company (FLLC). Then they pass on “shares” of the LLC to heirs at a discounted value.Here’s what that does:Keeps day-to-day control with the parentsReduces the taxable value of the estateCreates a structure for multi-generational wealth managementSetting up a family LLC requires expert help — but it can be a game-changer for families who want both structure and flexibility.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

Couple talking with financial advisor and looking at paperwork.

Image source: Getty Images

High-net-worth families don’t leave anything to chance. They use estate planning not only to distribute wealth, but to protect it — from the IRS, from court battles, and sometimes even from their own heirs.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

If you have a house, retirement savings, or kids, a smart plan matters more than you think. And you don’t need millions in the bank to get started. You only need the right tools and a little strategy.

1. Trusts built for more than just probate

The ultra-rich love trusts because they give control and protection that wills can’t match.

  • A revocable living trust avoids probate and keeps your affairs private.
  • A dynasty trust can pass wealth down for generations, skipping estate taxes along the way.
  • Spousal Lifetime Access Trusts (SLATs) let couples remove assets from their estate without losing all access to the money.

These strategies used to be reserved for the 1%, but now, many attorneys are building trust-based plans for regular families, too.

Want to know what type of trust is right for your situation? With our partner, SmartAsset, you can get matched with up to three fiduciary advisors so you can get professional advice.

2. Life insurance that doubles as a wealth transfer tool

Permanent life insurance can be a tax-free way to pass money down to loved ones. Many high-net-worth families own their policies inside an irrevocable life insurance trust (ILIT) to keep the death benefit out of their taxable estate.

It’s a powerful play:

  • Pays out income-tax free
  • Avoids estate tax
  • Helps heirs cover taxes or debts without selling off family assets

This isn’t just about coverage — it’s about control.

3. Gifting early to shrink future tax bills

Right now, you can give away $18,000 per year, per person (as of 2025) without touching your lifetime exemption. Couples can double that. Many wealthy families use this rule to move serious money out of their estate while they’re still alive.

Bonus: The current federal estate tax exemption is scheduled to drop in 2026, which means now may be the smartest time to act.

Not sure how much you should give or how gifting impacts your estate? Our partner SmartAsset’s no-cost quiz makes it easier to find a fiduciary financial advisor.

4. Family LLCs to pass wealth and keep control

Wealthy families often bundle their investments, real estate, or even business interests into a family limited liability company (FLLC). Then they pass on “shares” of the LLC to heirs at a discounted value.

Here’s what that does:

  • Keeps day-to-day control with the parents
  • Reduces the taxable value of the estate
  • Creates a structure for multi-generational wealth management

Setting up a family LLC requires expert help — but it can be a game-changer for families who want both structure and flexibility.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

Homes With These 3 Architecture Styles Are Gaining Value Fastest

By Money Management No Comments

 Some home styles have soared in value in recent years, while others have recorded more modest gains. 

Front porch of a gray ranch house with an American flag
MargJohnsonVA / Shutterstock.com

Home shoppers often look for an architectural style that appeals to them aesthetically. But a recent Realtor.com analysis noted that a home’s architectural style can have a big impact on how much it appreciates in value. “Architecture isn’t just about aesthetics; it often reflects where and when a home was built, and what buyers prioritized. This report highlights the rich diversity of American…

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What the Senate Tax Plan Could Mean for State and Local Tax Deductions

By Money Management No Comments

 Find out what the latest SALT standoff could mean for your tax bill. 

The exterior of the US Capitol Building which houses the Senate and the House of Representatives in the United States capital city of Washington DC.
Adam McCullough / Shutterstock.com

The federal deduction for state and local taxes (SALT) is back in the spotlight. Senate Republicans unveiled their tax plan Monday, leaving millions of Americans wondering what it means for their wallets. If you live in a high-tax state or own property, this political tug-of-war could significantly impact your tax bill. SALT helps you avoid double taxation on the same income.

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Will Savings Account Rates Fall After the Fed’s June 17-18 Meeting?

By Uncategorized No Comments
[[{“value”:”I’ve been really enjoying my 4.00%+ APY on my high-yield savings account the past couple of years. But I know it won’t last forever.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. Right now, futures traders predict a 99.8% chance that the Federal Reserve won’t change interest rates at its June 17-18 meeting, according to CME FedWatch. And while that might sound like good news for people earning strong returns on cash, here’s the twist: Even without a rate cut this month, savings account yields could still fall soon.Here’s what that means for your money — and more importantly, how you can protect your earnings.The Fed is likely standing pat (for now)While no rate changes are expected in June, the Fed’s post-meeting comments could signal a shift.If Fed policymakers signal that inflation is cooling toward their 2% target, markets may take that as a sign that rate cuts are on the horizon.Unless something unexpected flares up, many experts think the Fed could start easing later this year anyway — starting as early as September.Why savings account rates may drop anywayEven without a Fed rate cut, banks don’t need permission to lower your savings account rate. They can (and do) adjust rates based on market trends, internal goals, or just plain strategy.So even if the Fed stands still in June, some banks may start front-running future rate cuts. (In fact, we’ve already seen a few quietly shave down their APYs in recent weeks.)That said, today’s top savings rates are still historically high. And some banks are offering generous perks to win new customers — so there’s still time to lock in great value.Check out the best high-yield savings accounts today, offering up to 4.40% APY. If you’ve got cash sitting idle and want to put it to work, now’s a smart time to explore your options.How to lock in today’s high ratesIf you’re looking for a guaranteed return, short-term CDs are worth a serious look. You can still find CDs paying over 4.00% APY for 6-month or 1-year terms — which is a solid return if you don’t need that cash immediately.These CDs let you lock in today’s high rates before they start to slip. And they’re especially useful if you want to avoid the guesswork of a savings account that could drop its APY at any time.Want to compare options? Explore today’s top CD rates and find the best one for your timeline and goals.No matter the term length, just make sure you’re comfortable leaving the money untouched until the CD matures.Final thoughtsRates may not drop right away. But even if the Fed stays put this month, some banks won’t wait for the rate cuts that are expected later this year.If you’ve been thinking about moving your savings — or locking in a rate with a CD — this is a great time to explore your options. A few small steps today can help your money go further tomorrow.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

Piggy bank sitting on pile of silver coins on baby blue background.

I’ve been really enjoying my 4.00%+ APY on my high-yield savings account the past couple of years. But I know it won’t last forever.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

Right now, futures traders predict a 99.8% chance that the Federal Reserve won’t change interest rates at its June 17-18 meeting, according to CME FedWatch. And while that might sound like good news for people earning strong returns on cash, here’s the twist: Even without a rate cut this month, savings account yields could still fall soon.

Here’s what that means for your money — and more importantly, how you can protect your earnings.

The Fed is likely standing pat (for now)

While no rate changes are expected in June, the Fed’s post-meeting comments could signal a shift.

If Fed policymakers signal that inflation is cooling toward their 2% target, markets may take that as a sign that rate cuts are on the horizon.

Unless something unexpected flares up, many experts think the Fed could start easing later this year anyway — starting as early as September.

Why savings account rates may drop anyway

Even without a Fed rate cut, banks don’t need permission to lower your savings account rate. They can (and do) adjust rates based on market trends, internal goals, or just plain strategy.

So even if the Fed stands still in June, some banks may start front-running future rate cuts. (In fact, we’ve already seen a few quietly shave down their APYs in recent weeks.)

That said, today’s top savings rates are still historically high. And some banks are offering generous perks to win new customers — so there’s still time to lock in great value.

Check out the best high-yield savings accounts today, offering up to 4.40% APY. If you’ve got cash sitting idle and want to put it to work, now’s a smart time to explore your options.

How to lock in today’s high rates

If you’re looking for a guaranteed return, short-term CDs are worth a serious look. You can still find CDs paying over 4.00% APY for 6-month or 1-year terms — which is a solid return if you don’t need that cash immediately.

These CDs let you lock in today’s high rates before they start to slip. And they’re especially useful if you want to avoid the guesswork of a savings account that could drop its APY at any time.

No matter the term length, just make sure you’re comfortable leaving the money untouched until the CD matures.

Final thoughts

Rates may not drop right away. But even if the Fed stays put this month, some banks won’t wait for the rate cuts that are expected later this year.

If you’ve been thinking about moving your savings — or locking in a rate with a CD — this is a great time to explore your options. A few small steps today can help your money go further tomorrow.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More