Matt Bell's blog

Three of the Toughest Decisions You'll Face in Retirement

A lot of financial decision-making goes into retirement. Once you reach your golden years, you have a few more questions to answer.

What to Do If You're Retiring With Debt

Debt's a burden at any age. For retirees on fixed or reduced income, it can feel especially heavy.

4 Red Flags That Your Retirement Plan May Be Off Track

Is your retirement off course? If these red flags apply to you, it just might be.

This One Mental Bias Is Harming Your Investments

The biggest threat to your investments isn't a market downturn — it's your own brain.

The Financial Basics Every New Grad Should Know

Congrats, grad! You undoubtedly learned a lot in your college career, but now it's time to learn these personal finance basics.

Here's How Rate of Return Can Help You Invest Smarter

It's easy to get bogged down with investment terminology. Rate of return is an important one to know.

4 Questions You Need To Answer Before Relocating in Retirement

Relocating is a common post-career plan. But before pulling up stakes, you better find out where the road will take you.

Does Your Net Worth Even Matter?

You may not be raking it in like Warren Buffett, but yes, your net worth still matters.

Half of Americans Are Wrong About Their Retirement Savings

Most Americans have no idea what their retirement outlook is, for better or worse. Are you one of them?

5 Ways to Invest Like a Pro — No Financial Adviser Required

You don't need to hire a financial pro to invest like one. Try these DIY tips, and watch the confidence roll in.

Want Your Investments to Do Better? Stop Watching the News

If you want to be a better investor, consider stepping away from the market "news."

The Fiduciary Rule Is Under Review — How Will This Affect Your Investments?

The Trump administration is holding the fiduciary rule in limbo. How could this affect you and your retirement?

3 Reasons to Claim Social Security Before Your Retirement Age

Your Social Security benefits increase with every year you wait to claim them. But sometimes, sooner is better.

Your 401K in 2017: Here's What's New for You

2017 may not bring a lot of changes to your 401K, but you can still make sure you're making the most of your retirement plan.

How to Give Your Finances a Year-End Review

As the New Year begins, take a look back at how your money did last year and start planning for more financial progress this year.

These 5 Expenses Will Probably Cost You a Lot Less in Retirement

There's one silver lining to retirement planning: These five expenses are likely to dwindle in your golden years.

5 Financial Moves Now That You'll Regret When You Retire

Retirement may seem like a distant dot on the horizon, but if you make these costly money moves today, you'll really regret it later.

Everybody's Wrong About How Much House You Can Afford

Owning too much house often leads to your house owning you. Avoid becoming house poor with a radical approach to housing costs.

5 Essentials for Building a Profitable Portfolio

Investing is a bit of an art form, but it doesn't need to be a complicated one. Know the essentials, and you'll be on your way to great returns.

How to Stop Student Loans From Ruining Your Life

You got a higher education to improve your life — not to burden it. Don't let a student loan ruin everything.