Jack Hawkins articles

Savings Account

My wife thinks we should adopt the "$27.40 rule" to save more money—I've never heard of it. Does it work?

My wife wants us to adopt the $27.40 rule to save more money—but does it actually work? Learn how this simple compound interest strategy reframes everyday spending, reduces impulse purchases, and can quietly grow your long-term wealth.
February 25, 2026 Jack Hawkins
Woman talking with a friend

My ex-husband made me take money out of my retirement to invest in stocks. I just found out about the repayment rule. Am I ever going to retire?

She withdrew retirement savings at her ex-husband’s urging and missed the 60-day repayment rule. Now she fears she’ll never retire. Here’s what the rules mean, the real damage done, and how to rebuild your nest egg with smart, practical steps.
February 25, 2026 Jack Hawkins

My husband of 10 years has suddenly blocked access to our joint bank accounts. Why can't I see our money and what can I do next?

My husband blocked access to our joint bank accounts after 10 years of marriage. What are my rights, and what steps should I take next? A practical, engaging guide to protecting your money and your future.
February 20, 2026 Jack Hawkins

I checked my taxes, and my boss put my salary as less than I made last year, when my pay remained the same. Why would he do that?

Think your boss underreported your salary on your taxes? Before you panic, this in-depth, easy-to-follow guide breaks down the most common reasons your W-2 income might appear lower than last year—even if your pay stayed the same. From 401(k) contributions and health insurance deductions to bonuses, payroll timing, and potential errors, we explain what really affects your taxable wages and what steps to take if something looks off.
February 20, 2026 Jack Hawkins

I'm about to renew my lease, but my landlord is suddenly demanding that I pay my rent in an envelope of cash. Is that legal?

Can a landlord legally require rent in cash when renewing your lease? Learn your tenant rights, the risks of cash-only payments, and how to protect yourself before agreeing to new lease terms.
February 20, 2026 Jack Hawkins

Financial Advice From Boomers That Doesn't Hold Up In These Tough Times

Is Boomer money advice still relevant in today’s economy? In this eye-opening and engaging article, we break down the old-school financial tips that simply don’t hold up anymore—from “just walk in and ask for a job” to “buy the biggest house you can afford.”
February 19, 2026 Jack Hawkins

My boss cut massage therapy from my insurance plan. I have a debilitating back issue that requires treatment. What can I do?

When your employer cuts massage therapy from your insurance but you rely on it for chronic back pain, what can you do? Learn your rights, explore accommodation options, appeal coverage decisions, and find practical ways to protect both your health and your paycheck.
February 17, 2026 Jack Hawkins

My mother took out student loans in my name to put her stepdaughter through college. Do I have to pay back the loan, even though I made no use of it?

Can your mom take out student loans in your name without you knowing? If you’ve discovered debt you didn’t agree to, you’re not alone. This article breaks down whether you’re legally responsible, how identity theft works in family situations, what to do if your signature was forged, and how to protect your credit. Learn the difference between federal and private loans, how to dispute fraudulent student debt, and the steps to safeguard your financial future.
February 17, 2026 Jack Hawkins

I'm very late this year to e-file my taxes; they're due tomorrow, and now the IRS website is down. Am I going to get fined?

Stuck trying to e-file your taxes because the IRS website is down on deadline day? Find out whether you’ll get fined, what the IRS actually does during outages, and how to protect yourself from penalties.
February 13, 2026 Jack Hawkins