Kristina Byas

Milwaukee

Contributor and Editor at Freelance

Writing the stories you didn’t know you needed, one word at a time.…..

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Articles

Thinking of Upsizing in Retirement? Here's What It Could Mean for Your Wallet

2 days ago | investopedia.com | Kristina Byas

When most people think about retirement, they imagine downsizing to a smaller home, thus enjoying fewer responsibilities and embracing a lighter financial load. Downsizing often brings perks such as reduced maintenance, lower utility bills, and freeing up extra money that can be spent on travel and hobbies. But for some, retirement sparks the opposite idea: upsizing.
How to Achieve FIRE on Less Than a Six-figure Salary

3 days ago | investopedia.com | Kristina Byas

Years ago, early retirement meant exiting the workforce in your late 50s or early 60s. But the financial independence, retire early (FIRE) movement is changing that, giving hope to those seeking to escape the nine-to-five grind long before their 60s. While many success stories highlight high-earners who retire in their 30s, the truth is you don't need a six-figure salary to achieve FIRE. With discipline and a long-term plan, even modest-income earners can be on a path to financial independence.
10 Weirdest Things Left Behind in Uber's This Year-and How You Can Get Them Back

1 month ago | investopedia.com | Kristina Byas

Riding in an Uber can be a convenient way to get from point A to point B, but it's also an easy way to lose your belongings in a stranger's car. Sometimes the distractions of a trip cause riders to leave behind more than just their phone or wallet. Uber's annual Lost & Found Index reveals some truly bizarre items that have been forgotten in the backseat, and tips for recovering them.
Won the Lottery? Here's How to Protect and Grow Your Newfound Wealth

1 month ago | investopedia.com | Kristina Byas

Winning the lottery can be life-changing, but it also presents unique challenges. The sudden wealth often comes with overwhelming decisions about how to manage, protect, and grow that money. Without careful planning, lottery winners can find themselves vulnerable to bad investments, excessive taxes, and even financial mismanagement. The excitement of winning the lottery can cloud judgment, leading to impulsive decisions that could ultimately deplete the winnings.
The Surprising Truth About Which Generation's Wealth Is Growing the Fastest

1 month ago | investopedia.com | Kristina Byas

Many people fell behind financially due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and some have not yet recovered. However, between 2019 and 2024, millennials managed to amass wealth at a pace that surpassed previous generations at their age. What was once seen as the financially burdened generation is now leading a wealth revolution. Key Takeaways Millennials' Financial Progress When the pandemic hit in March 2020, the markets tumbled, interest rates dropped, inflation soared, and uncertainty ruled.
How to Pass Down Real Estate Across Borders Without Tax Nightmares

1 month ago | investopedia.com | Kristina Byas

Passing down real estate to loved ones gets more complex when the property lies across international borders. Unlike domestic transfers, international real estate transfers involve navigating different legal systems, tax obligations, and reporting requirements. Luckily, there are legal structures and tax strategies that can minimize the complications and ensure that your property passes smoothly to your heirs.
What the 1% Get Right About Retirement Withdrawals

1 month ago | investopedia.com | Kristina Byas

The pressure to manage retirement funds wisely is real, as many retirees are concerned about running out of money. But there's a group that seems to navigate retirement with confidence and ease: the top 1%. Many of these high-net-worth individuals have learned to manage their retirement withdrawals with intention and discipline. While their wealth gives them advantages, their approach to retirement withdrawals offers valuable lessons that anyone can apply, regardless of income.
What Is Right for You?

1 month ago | investopedia.com | Kristina Byas

Charitable trusts and private foundations are powerful tools that allow individuals and families to support causes they care about. Both options allow you to create a meaningful legacy and ensure that your charitable giving continues long after you are gone. But the choice between a trust and a foundation will impact how donations are managed and distributed, as well as your control over your charitable giving.
When To Get A Fast Business Loan

Jan 28, 2025 | bankrate.com | Kristina Byas |Rob Watts

Companies needing quick cash to cover an expense or take advantage of an opportunity should consider fast business loans Fast business loans can be approved in as little as 24 hours Fast business loans may not have the best terms, so it’s important to consider all your options An emergency, limited-time growth opportunity or other unforeseen business expense can create an urgent need for working capital.
Financial Support For Black-Owned Businesses

Jan 23, 2025 | bankrate.com | Kristina Byas |Heidi Rivera |Rob Watts

Black-owned businesses in the U.S. employ around 1.6 million Americans, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Studies show that Black entrepreneurs face more challenges than their white counterparts to secure the capital they need. This is true, even if they have a stronger credit profile. Black-owned businesses play an essential role in reducing the racial wealth gap. Minority-owned businesses are those that are at least 51 percent owned, operated and controlled by a minority group.