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Money Management

Ready or Not: Social Security Changes Rolling Out in 2025

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 Do you win or lose under the new rules? 

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From increased payouts for government retirees to appointment-only access at local offices, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is introducing changes that could affect millions of Americans’ budgets, according to AARP. While most media attention focuses on inflation-based increases, several other updates could put hundreds or even thousands of extra dollars in some recipients’ pockets.

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Here’s Why Expats Love This Sunny Spanish Destination

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 Spain is a popular destination for expats, and Valencia is one of its stars. 

City and beach in Valencia, Spain
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Sunny days, stunning beaches, happy people … A low cost of living, tons of cheap property, and tasty food … Healthy living, safe streets, and virtually free health care … It’s no surprise that 7.2 million expats call Spain home. This is the most popular second-home destination in all of Europe. Indeed, an InterNations survey of more than 12,000 veteran expats ranked not one … not two …

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Inflation Report Could Shake up Your Mortgage, Credit, and Savings Rates

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 Here’s how to prepare now, whether you’re planning a home purchase, carrying debt, or boosting savings. 

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An upcoming inflation report could give the Federal Reserve its clearest signal on whether to shift course on interest rates or hold steady. The stakes are rising for consumers: timing, strategy, and flexibility may matter more now than trying to predict what’s next. The latest Consumer Price Index data may further strengthen the case for cutting rates or delay relief.

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Switch and Save? What Costco’s $450 Phone Offer Really Delivers

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 Costco’s offer sounds tempting. Before you switch phone plans, here’s what it means — and what to weigh first. 

Coscto warehouse app
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With wireless prices creeping up, some phone users are reconsidering their options. That’s where promotional offers — like a new Costco and T-Mobile deal — come in. Between June 18 and July 20, 2025, Costco members can receive up to $450 per line when switching to T-Mobile and activating a new device on eligible plans, according to Costco Insider’s preview of the retailer’s July Coupon Book.

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Why Amazon Prime Video Is Starting to Feel Less Like a Perk

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 Is paying for ad-free streaming worth the extra cost? 

Amazon Prime Video's streaming service
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Amazon Prime Video has more than doubled its commercial time per hour, jumping from about two to three minutes to as much as six, according to a June 2025 report in Adweek based on feedback from advertising industry insiders. For the 180 million-plus members in the U.S. paying $139 a year, this change means a service that once provided nearly ad-free streaming now feels much more like…

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14 States That Offer Property Tax Exemptions for Retirees

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 Many states ease the property tax burden of residents who are 65 or older. 

Happy senior woman looking at a bill
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With age comes certain privileges, including lower property tax bills. More than one-quarter of states offer some type of property tax exemption to those who are 65 or older. A property tax exemption is a specific type of property tax break that reduces the assessed value of your home, which in turn typically lowers your property taxes themselves. Here’s a look at some states that offer…

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