Stacy Garrels

1 week ago | financebuzz.com | Stacy Garrels |Lauren Wellbank

Estate planning can sound like something reserved for the ultra-rich with beachfront homes and big fat stock portfolios, dripping in financial success. But the truth is, estate planning is for everyone. Whether you're 25 or 75, if you have a bank account, property, or even just a strong opinion on who gets your personal stuff, estate planning matters. And, if you believe any of these common myths about inheritance, you could be setting up your family for stress, legal headaches, and financial loss.

1 week ago | financebuzz.com | Stacy Garrels |Laura Ratliff

Crafting a will is one of the most important steps to protect your wealth and ensure your legacy is honored long after you're gone. But even the most meticulous planners can overlook crucial details, leaving unnecessary stress and other unintended consequences for your loved ones to fight through. It's important to double-check your estate plan and make sure nothing is overlooked. To that end, here are 10 of the most common items people accidentally forget to include.

4 weeks ago | financebuzz.com | Stacy Garrels |Laura Ratliff

Assuming some investment risk now makes sense if you're just starting out inyour career. You have plenty of time to ride out the market's highs and lows andreap the long-term rewards. But the closer you are to retirement, the more vulnerable you are to suddenloss. If you're checking in on your own financial stability and things aren't as solid as you'd like. it's officially time to derisk. Derisking is a strategy that involves shifting some ofyour higher-risk assets into lower-risk ones.

1 month ago | financebuzz.com | Stacy Garrels |Laura Ratliff

Life is expensive. Just paying for housing, gas, and groceries can be a struggle. Many people seem strapped for cash — like your friend who never picks up the tab and tells you about their money woes between sips of their $8 coffee drink. There's a word for people like this: broke. Maybe this was you in your early 20s, or it's you right now. While broke people may struggle to pay their bills and save, many seem to always have funds for unnecessary purchases that keep them in debt.

1 month ago | financebuzz.com | Stacy Garrels |Laura Ratliff

We all know somebody who pinches pennies and gives themselves lopsided haircuts. But being frugal doesn't have to be about self-denial — or depriving yourself of non-crooked haircuts. Smart frugality is about making wise, intentional purchases that offer genuine long-term value, investing in products that will save money in the long run and enhance everyday living. Here are 12 buying habits that can help you save money on essentials and build a more sustainable lifestyle.