If you’ve only just begun your career and are starting to collect a decent paycheck, the last thing on your mind is probably retirement planning. When you’re in your twenties and thirties, retirement can feel light years away, but it will get here much quicker than you can imagine. And when it does, you’ll want to be prepared.

The American Institute of CPA’s (AICPA) recently published a list of personal finance trends that we should all be concerned about. These trends highlight the fact that almost 63 percent of Americans today are unable to pass a basic financial literacy test.

Here are the troubling trends, as well as some tips on how to avoid them:

For those already receiving their Social Security benefits, they will automatically be enrolled in Medicare Part A and B when they reach Medicare age.

“I have found that the importance of having an investment philosophy—one that is robust and that you can stick with— cannot be overstated.”

—David Booth

Sometimes simple is best. Many of us tend to complicate our financial situation; overthinking our options while ignoring the basics.

But like anything else, the simplest rules are often the most important ones; and the ones most likely to be ignored. How many of these rules do you follow?

Taxpayers experienced the effects of the Tax Cuts and Job Act these past few months when it came time to file their tax returns. One of the biggest changes the legislation caused was the doubling of the standard deduction.

About two-thirds of Americans paid less income tax in 2018 under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 which went into effect last year. But many taxpayers were unhappy with their recent filing as they received a lower refund than they expected or even owed tax. People often count on their refund in order to fund a vacation, make a big purchase or use it for other purposes.

There are many ways that we support our favorite charitable causes. However, one of the most beneficial ways to support a favorite charity now and into perpetuity is through planned giving.

I have to comment on the End of Days December correction before we completely forget that it happened.