Liz Opsitnik
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Articles by Liz Opsitnik
The Best Jobs in America in 2026
To choose a career, job seekers need to make a range of decisions about their personal priorities, strengths and goals. But there are some more universal, data-driven factors that can help identify worthwhile jobs in the marketplace. That's where U.S. News' Best Jobs rankings come in.
Best Travel Insurance Companies for Preexisting Conditions in 2026
Travelers of all abilities should feel confident in selecting a travel insurance policy that allows them to enjoy their vacation – and protects them in the event of a medical emergency, illness or flare-up on a trip, even if it stems from a preexisting condition. So, what exactly is a preexisting condition?
What Is the Social Security COLA for 2027?
Key Takeaways Social Security beneficiaries receive an annual cost-of-living adjustment to their payments, known as a COLA. The COLA is based on a measure of the rate of inflation. The Social Security COLA will be 2.8% in 2026, and early estimates place the 2027 COLA at between 2.4% and 3%. Factors such as the job market, tax cuts and Congressional changes could impact the final COLA amount. Each year, Social Security beneficiaries receive a cost-of-living adjustment, known as a COLA.
How Much Does It Cost To Spay or Neuter a Pet?
Our rankings, ratings, and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology. Key Takeaways Spaying a dog can cost anywhere between $250 and $600, while the cost for spaying a cat ranges from $50 to $500.
Will the 2026 Social Security COLA be Enough to Cover Seniors' Rising Costs?
Key Takeaways Social Security payments will increase 2.8% in 2026 as a result of an annual cost-of-living adjustment. Much of the Social Security COLA will be absorbed by Medicare premium and deductible increases. Inflationary increases in living expenses may outpace the amount beneficiaries receive from the Social Security COLA. Seniors may need to rethink their investment strategy, change Medicare plans or look for other ways to bridge budget gaps next year.
Should You Plan for a Retirement Without Social Security? Here's What the Experts Say
Key Takeaways The Social Security trust fund that is used to pay retirement benefits is expected to be depleted in 2033. Once the trust fund is depleted, retirees may only receive 77% of their benefit amount. It is widely believed Congress will make changes to the Social Security system before the trust fund is depleted. Finance experts say those changes shouldn’t affect older workers, but younger workers could see reduced benefits and should start investing more for retirement.
Your Guide to Umbrella Insurance: What It Is and Who Needs It
Our rankings, ratings, and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology. Key Takeaways Umbrella insurance extends your bodily injury and property damage liability coverage beyond your standard policy limits.
4 Best International Travel Insurance Companies of 2026
No, international travel insurance is not required unless you are visiting a country where it is mandatory. While many countries began mandating travel insurance for visitors during the COVID-19 pandemic, most have loosened entry requirements and dropped this condition.
How To Get Life Insurance After a Heart Attack
Our rankings, ratings, and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology.
Does Insurance Cover Food After a Power Outage?
Key Takeaways Reimbursement for food loss caused by power outages may be offered by homeowners insurance policies if the outage results from a covered event. Reimbursement amounts vary based on your policy guidelines and insurer. You may be able to purchase add-on coverage if your homeowners insurance doesn’t include food loss in its standard coverage. If your homeowners insurance includes food coverage, your frozen and refrigerated foods will be covered in the event of a power outage.
What Is Property and Casualty Insurance?
Our rankings, ratings, and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology.
How to Check if a Car Is Stolen
Our rankings, ratings, and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology. Key Takeaways If you end up buying a stolen car by mistake, you’re required to report it to the police.
How Does Inflation Affect Life Insurance?
Our rankings, ratings, and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology.
What Is Return of Premium Life Insurance?
Our rankings, ratings, and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology. Key Takeaways Return of premium life insurance is a category of term life insurance that repays premiums if you outlive the term of your policy.
Life Insurance While Pregnant
Our rankings, ratings, and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology. Key Takeaways Being pregnant typically won’t disqualify you from scoring approval for a new life insurance policy.
What Are Life Insurance Dividends?
Our rankings, ratings, and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology. Key Takeaways Life insurance dividends are payments offered by some companies to policyholders.
What Is Cash Surrender Value?
Our rankings, ratings, and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology. Key Takeaways When surrendering life insurance, policyholders may pay a fee, called a surrender charge.
What Is Equipment Breakdown Coverage?
Our rankings, ratings, and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology. Key Takeaways Equipment breakdown coverage protects home appliances and mechanical systems against electrical or mechanical failure.
Best Pet Insurance in Montana
Our rankings, ratings, and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology.
Best Pet Insurance in Arkansas
Our rankings, ratings, and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology. Key Takeaways Pumpkin offers a customizable accident-and-illness policy for dogs and cats who are at least 8 weeks old.
9 Best Cancel for Any Reason Travel Insurance Companies of 2026
The following describes our approach to researching and analyzing travel insurance companies to guide prospective consumers. U.S. News & World Report rates the best cancel for any reason travel insurance companies to help travelers determine what policy will help them protect their investment in their vacation and allow them to cancel a trip for any reason they wish.
The 25 Best Places to Retire in 2026
1/27 Credit Getty Images| View as article What makes a city a great place to retire? When considering where to spend their golden years, retirees often evaluate the affordability, safety, vibrancy and lifestyle offered by a city. U.S. News took those factors – and more – into consideration when determining the top 250 Best Places to Retire for 2026. The rankings examine more than 850 U.S. cities across thousands of data points.
U.S. News Unveils the 2024 Best Cars for Teens
Washington, D.C. – U.S. News & World Report, the global authority in rankings and consumer advice, today announced the 2024 Best Cars for Teens. The awards recognize new and used cars that come highly recommended by critics and score well in factors including predicted reliability, safety features and crash scores. Hyundai secured the most wins in the Best New Cars for Teens categories, with four awards.
Life Insurance Riders Explained
Our rankings, ratings, and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology. Key Takeaways You typically have to add riders to your policy when you sign up for coverage.
How Much Does It Cost to Spay or Neuter a Dog?
Our rankings, ratings, and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology. Key Takeaways Factors like your dog’s size and health can influence how much it costs to spay or neuter them.
What Are Life Settlements?
Our rankings, ratings, and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology. Key Takeaways Both term and permanent life insurance policies may be sold through a life settlement.
What Is Windstorm Insurance?
Our rankings, ratings, and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology. Key Takeaways Many standard homeowners insurance policies include coverage for wind damage.
The State of Equity in America
7:45 a.m.: Breakfast, Registration and Networking 8:15 a.m.: Welcome and Opening Remarks 8:45 a.m.: Panel: Examining Equity in America George L.
How to Retire at 55 on $1 Million
If you've accumulated $1 million, you've likely spent years saving for your future. You might be ready to retire at age 55 with a seven-figure nest egg. Depending on your expenses and retirement plans, you may find that the amount is enough to support your lifestyle. For those with higher costs of living, the amount might not carry you through the following decades. Before you retire at age 55 with $1 million, you'll want to: Plan for a long retirement. Think about withdrawal strategies.
Can I Retire at 50 With $2 Million?
As you think through whether $2 million is enough to retire on at 50, it can be helpful to calculate your annual cost of living. (Getty Images) If you're planning to retire at 50, you may be wondering how much is needed to sustain your household over the coming decades. For Americans between the ages of 45 and 54, the average savings is $254,700, according to data from the Federal Reserve Survey of Consumer Finances.
12 Ways to Avoid the IRA Early Withdrawal Penalty Original
Once you turn age 59 1/2, you can withdraw any amount from your IRA without having to pay the 10% penalty.(Getty Images) Distributions from individual retirement accounts before age 59 1/2 typically trigger a 10% early withdrawal penalty. But the IRA withdrawal rules contain several exceptions to the penalty if you meet certain circumstances or spend the money on specific purchases. If you understand the guidelines, you can avoid paying extra fees.
Reasons to Take Social Security Early at Age 62
Key Takeaways Taking Social Security at age 62 can make sense for retirees with health issues. If you're done working for good and do not expect to earn above the annual limit for Social Security earnings, taking benefits early can help cover living expenses. Those facing financial emergencies, such as a layoff or debt, may benefit from accessing Social Security early.
How Do Insurance Deductibles Work?
Our rankings, ratings, and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. Key Takeaways The amount you pay for an insurance deductible depends on the kind of policy you have. Opting for a higher deductible usually results in a lower premium.
9 Benefits of a 401(k) Plan You Haven't Considered
With only a fortunate few eligible for traditional pensions nowadays, the 401(k) plan has become the go-to retirement account for many workers. These employer-sponsored plans come with many benefits, the best-known being tax deductions and employer matches for contributions. However, there are also lesser-known perks of 401(k) plans that may appeal to employers as well as employees. These include different tax benefits, new ways to tap into fund balances and easier options to save for retirement.
What's the Difference Between a Pension Plan and a 401(k)?
While 401(k) plans make it easy for workers to see where their money is invested and how it is performing, there is no such option with a pension plan.(Getty Images) When you're ready to retire, you'll want to have more than Social Security to pay the bills. Those benefits typically only provide enough money to replace about 40% of average earnings. Covering the rest is up to you.
Factors to Consider Before Cashing Out a 401(k)
The amount you have set aside for retirement will drop significantly if you cash out. Getty Images If you lose your joband have a 401(k) through your previous company, you may have the option of cashing it out. Sometimes employees choose to take the money instead of keeping it in a retirement account. However, before accessing the money, it pays to evaluate your reasons for the withdrawal and the financial consequences that could result from the distribution.
7 Excellent Sales and Marketing Jobs for 2017
Sales and marketing jobs are ideal if you enjoy interacting with people. Your house, your SUV, the car insurance policy, your groceries and even the pair of jeans you bought at the mall recently all have something in common: Someone in the sales and marketing industry sold it to you, or at the very least, put it on your radar. Our list of the Best Sales and Marketing Jobs includes a variety of careers for those who love making deals and closing sales.
7 Outstanding Education Jobs for 2017
Educators enjoy the subject they teach, and they also enjoy watching their students learn and progress. Many of us can think back to a teacher who inspired us to work harder, set goals and reach for the stars. Not only are teachers on our list of the 2017 Best Education Jobs, but jobs like sports coach, teacher assistant and health educator also made our list. Click on to see which education jobs ranked highest among the U.S. News 2017 Best Jobs Rankings. 7.
Best Cars for College Students
Your kid is heading off to college in the fall and you want to help him or her buy a new car to take to school. You might even want to surprise your teen with the car for a high school graduation gift. Maybe grandma and grandpa are helping out with a down payment. While you might want to get your son or daughter a budget-friendly entry-level subcompact car, good things don't always come in small packages when it comes to crash protection.
At $139 A Month, Is An Electric Car Finally Worth Buying?
You’ve probably been behind one at a red light, wondering where the exhaust pipe is, and you’ve likely seen a commercial for one on TV. Though many consumers are somewhat familiar with electric cars, U.S. car buyers have been slow to embrace these vehicles. Fortune reports that in 2014, U.S. consumers bought 119,710 electric cars and plug-in hybrids, representing less than 1 percent of the 16.5 million vehicles that were sold in the U.S. last year.
2016 Chevrolet Malibu will be Lighter, Longer, Stronger
Chevrolet says the all-new 2016 Malibu, which makes its first public appearance April 1 at the New York International Auto Show, will be able to easily tackle terrible roads and potholes. That toughness could come in handy for many drivers who spend their winters dodging craters on their local roads. The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu will also be almost 4 inches longer than the 2015 Malibu, which Chevrolet says translates into more back-seat legroom.
Safest Cars for Teens
Slideshow: Safest Cars for Teens By Liz Opsitnik | Posted: Feb 26, 2015 09:27 a.m. ‹ (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) ›
2016 Mazda CX-3: Mazda Makes its Move on the Subcompact SUV Segment
As automakers continue to build even smaller compact SUVs, shoppers who want the utility and capabilities of an SUV in a small package have more options than ever. Mazda debuted its new 2016 CX-3 compact SUV at the Los Angeles Auto Show this week, which is the third SUV in the automaker’s lineup, slotting below the three-row midsize CX-9 and two-row compact CX-5.
Compact SUV Lease Deals Under $250 in November
Black Friday is a little over three weeks away, and if you’re in the market for a new small SUV, the good news is that you don’t have to wait to take advantage of the best lease deals this month. If you don’t feel like battling the crowds looking for Black Friday deals, there are plenty of lease offers available now with monthly payments of $250 or less.
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