What are 'What If' scenarios?
These show alternative paths to reach celebrity wealth levels - like increasing your savings rate, achieving higher investment returns, or extending your timeline. They help you understand what cha...
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â Back to all articlesThese show alternative paths to reach celebrity wealth levels - like increasing your savings rate, achieving higher investment returns, or extending your timeline. They help you understand what cha...
Read moreYou only receive a tax benefit for donations if you itemize and your total itemized deductions exceed the standard deduction. Many donors âbunchâ 2â3 years of gifts into one year to surpass the thr...
Read moreDAFs allow a large, deductible contribution in one year with grants made over time. Useful for bunching strategy, donating appreciated stock, or smoothing giving while optimizing taxes.
Read moreDonating longâterm appreciated assets avoids capital gains tax and still provides a deduction for fair market value (subject to AGI limits). Often more taxâefficient than cash.
Read moreFor 501(c)(3) public charities, cash gifts are generally deductible up to 60% of AGI; appreciated assets up to 30% of AGI. Excess typically carries forward up to five years.
Read moreThis calculator uses USDA methodology updated with 2025 data from Brookings Institution and LendingTree studies. Actual costs vary based on personal choices, but estimates are within Âą15% for most ...
Read moreTypically ages 0-5 due to childcare costs. Full-time infant care averages $13,000-18,000/year in many states. Costs decrease when children enter school (ages 6+).
Read moreNo, this calculator covers birth to age 18 only. College costs are separate and calculated in the college savings module (optional).
Read moreAbout 25% cheaper per child due to hand-me-downs, shared bedrooms, bulk purchases, and reused baby gear. Third and subsequent children average ~33% savings per child.
Read moreChild Tax Credit ($2,000-3,600/child), Dependent Care FSA ($5,000/year), and other credits can reduce costs by $3,000-8,000 annually. Consult a tax professional for your situation.
Read moreYes, because it reduces your take-home pay. However, remember it's still YOUR moneyâjust saved for retirement. The retirement impact section helps you see this long-term benefit.
Read moreEnter your actual annual salary and adjust work expenses proportionally. For example, if you work 3 days/week, your commute and lunch costs would be 3/5 of full-time.
Read moreThis simplified calculator doesn't currently calculate specific tax credits, which is why we recommend using an estimated tax rate. For detailed tax planning, consult a tax professional or use IRS ...
Read moreResearch shows 5 years out of workforce can result in $700,000+ in total career impact (lost wages + retirement). Use the retirement impact section, and consider whether your field allows career gaps.
Read moreIf adding you to your spouse's plan costs extra, include that cost. If it's free or you're already on it, leave health insurance at $0.
Read moreEquipment financing terms are usually 2â7 years with APRs ~6â18% depending on credit, time in business, collateral value, and down payment (15â30% common).
Read moreYes, but expect higher down payments (20â30%) and rates. Lenders evaluate personal credit and may require 6â12 months bank statements and proof of revenue.
Read morePlan for 3â6 months of operating expenses ($20Kâ$40K+) to cover fuel, insurance, repairs, permits, and slow pay. Cash flow is the main failure point for new O/Os.
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