Personal Finance

Explore a wealth of resources dedicated to personal finance, where you can find expert insights on legal aspects of financial planning, debt management, and estate planning. Our comprehensive articles and video interviews with attorneys provide valuable information on navigating financial legalities, protecting your assets, and understanding your rights. Whether you're seeking guidance on bankruptcy, investments, or credit issues, this category equips you with the knowledge to make informed financial decisions within the legal framework.

85 posts

Short-Term Rentals Are Now Illegal in 47 Cities — Is Yours on the List?

May 2, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

At least 47 U.S. cities now make certain short-term rentals illegal or heavily restricted through local ordinances. These rules commonly ban unhosted stays, cap rental nights, require permits, and impose fines for violations on Airbnb/Vrbo listings. This article explains what’s changing, how to check your local status, and practical compliance steps for hosts and owners. […]

Consumer Rights Government Regulations

Forced Internet and Cable Bundles Are Now Illegal — Here’s How to Opt Out

May 2, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

Forced internet and cable bundles are now illegal under new federal consumer protection rules. Providers can’t require you to buy cable TV to get internet service or preferred speeds, and you can request unbundled pricing and dispute bundled charges. This article explains what changed, how to opt out, and what to do if a provider […]

Estate Planning Homeownership

The Transfer-on-Death Deed – The Simplest Way to Skip Probate for Your Home

May 2, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

A transfer-on-death deed lets you name beneficiaries so your home transfers automatically at death, avoiding probate in states that recognize it. You keep full ownership and control during life, and the deed can usually be revoked or changed anytime. This article explains how TOD deeds work, their pros/cons, and when to use one. What Is […]

Blockchain Technology Cryptocurrency

Why a Crypto ‘Airdrop’ May Actually Be Taxable Income — Explained Simply

May 2, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

In the U.S., many crypto airdrops can be taxable as ordinary income when you gain “dominion and control” over the tokens, typically valued at their fair market value on the date you can access or sell them. The IRS generally treats newly received tokens like compensation or other income even if you didn’t pay cash […]

Cryptocurrency Divorce Law

Crypto Divorce – How Judges Are Dividing Bitcoin in 2026

May 2, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

In 2026, judges usually treat Bitcoin as marital property and award each spouse an equitable share—often close to 50/50—based on state law. Courts value coins at a specific cutoff date (separation, filing, or trial), require wallet tracing and exchange records, and can sanction concealment. This article explains valuation, tracing, division methods, and enforcement in crypto […]

Estate Planning Family Wealth Management

Probate Takes 9 to 18 Months – Here’s How to Skip It Entirely

May 2, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

Probate typically takes 9 to 18 months to complete. Delays come from court timelines, creditor notice periods, and paperwork needed to validate the will and transfer assets. This article explains what probate is, why it takes so long, and proven ways to skip it entirely. What Is Probate and Why Does It Take So Long? […]

Homeownership Housing Market

The Foreclosure Crisis Coming in 2026 — What Homeowners Should Do Today

May 2, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

Analysts are warning 2026 could bring a major foreclosure wave as mortgage resets, higher rates, and economic pressure hit stressed borrowers. Acting now—reviewing your loan, building reserves, and seeking help early—can reduce the risk of default and foreclosure. This article explains what’s driving the 2026 outlook and the practical steps homeowners should take today. Why […]

Consumer Protection Financial Fraud Prevention

Fraudulent Charities – The Quick IRS Search That Tells You Before You Donate

May 2, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search can confirm a charity’s 501(c)(3) status in under a minute. If it’s missing, revoked, or doesn’t match the name/EIN, treat it as a red flag and don’t donate. This article explains the quick IRS check plus other warning signs and safer ways to give. Why Charity Fraud Is More Common […]

Financial Planning Home Buying

The First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit That Expires This Year — Don’t Miss It

May 2, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

First-time homebuyers may be able to claim a federal tax credit worth up to $2,000, but it expires at the end of this year. The credit can reduce your tax bill dollar-for-dollar if you meet the eligibility rules and timing requirements for your purchase. This article explains who qualifies, key deadlines, how to claim the […]

Crypto Investing Cryptocurrency Taxation

The IRS Form 1099-DA – What Every Crypto Holder Must File in 2026

May 2, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

IRS Form 1099-DA is a new IRS information return that crypto brokers must begin using for 2026 tax-year reporting of digital asset transactions. It matters because it standardizes how sales and exchanges of crypto like Bitcoin and Ethereum are reported to taxpayers and the IRS, increasing matching and audit risk. This article explains what the […]

Housing and Real Estate Legal Advice

How to Legally Break a Lease Without Paying a Penny More

May 2, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

You can legally break a lease without extra cost in 5 common situations: landlord breach, uninhabitable conditions, active-duty military orders, domestic violence protections, or a valid early-termination clause. Your rights depend on state law and proper written notice with documentation. This article explains qualifying reasons, required steps, and how to avoid penalties. What Does It […]

Career Transition Employment Law

Severance Package Negotiation – The 7 Clauses Worth Real Money

May 2, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

Severance package negotiation can often increase total payout by 10–50% by improving pay, benefits, and tax treatment. Employers commonly expect edits to releases, noncompetes, confidentiality, and timing, especially for higher-risk terminations. This article explains 7 severance clauses that are worth real money and how to negotiate them. What Most People Don’t Know About Severance Agreements […]

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