Saving for a down payment still a barrier for people looking to buy a home, Realtor.com says
An analysis by Realtor.com is forecasting homeownership in 2026 to be more affordable as mortgage rates decline. But saving for a down payment is still a barrier for many people looking to buy a home.
Affordable Care Act subsidies expire, millions of Americans now faced with steep health insurance hikes
The Enhanced tax credits that have helped millions of Americans offset the cost of the Affordable Care Act health insurance for the last four years expired as 2025 came to a close.
These states are increasing the minimum wage in 2026
Significant wage hikes kick in Jan. 1 for millions of workers across these states. See if your area made the list.
Your 2026 tax guide: All the changes to know before filing
New tax deductions have been enacted for many working Americans and seniors. Here’s what you need to know about the new laws that could impact your return.
Sports betting group sues Chicago over new tax on sports wagers
A lawsuit from a group of sports betting companies seeks to stop Chicago's new tax on sports wagers from going into effect.
IRS giving out major tax break for certain expenses in 2026: What you need to know
People who use their cars for work will be able to deduct more money per mile on their taxes in the new year.
SNAP junk-food purchase restrictions take effect Jan. 1 in five states, others to follow in 2026 — see where
The new year brings new restrictions on food purchases by SNAP recipients. On Jan. 1, five states are banning SNAP recipients from using their taxpayer-funded food assistance benefit to purchase junk food.
CPS board president threatens members over leak to reporter: Sources
Tensions are rising following a quiet vote by the Chicago Board of Education to raise property taxes. Fox Chicago reporter Paris Schutz says he learned about the special meeting in advance and shared the information publicly. Paris says he later learned that the board president referenced his post, telling members he would try to identify the source of the leak and force a resignation.
Crucial strategies for saving money in 2026
Illinois State Comptroller Susana Mendoza shares tips on budgeting, saving, and reducing debt as part of New Year’s resolutions to help families start 2026 on a stronger financial footing.
Dog biscuits recalled due to possible salmonella contamination
Dog biscuits sold in several states have been recalled due to possible salmonella contamination.
Chicago Board of Education quietly votes to raise property taxes
The Chicago Board of Education voted to increase property taxes during a secretive meeting on Monday.
Shoppers who purchased beef in certain years may be eligible for cash payment: See eligibility and how to file
Shoppers in several states may be eligible for part of an $87.5 million antitrust class action lawsuit settlement with several beef processors.
IRS reveals updated retirement contribution limits for 2026
The IRS unveiled contribution limit changes for popular retirement plans, including 401(k) plans and IRAs.
American Airlines ends advantage miles program for basic economy fares
American Airlines has made a change that affects how millions of travelers earn rewards on its cheapest tickets — and now the airline is facing some backlash for it.
White House teases housing affordability plan
As interest rates stay high, the White House weighs ideas like 50-year and portable mortgages, raising questions about whether fixes for housing affordability could bring unintended consequences.
Social Security January payment schedule: Here's when recipients get their checks
Social Security payments for millions of Americans are set to begin as we move into the new year.
Ford shatters decade-old recall record with 152 safety alerts issued this year alone across multiple models
Ford Motor Company logged far more recalls in 2025 than any other automaker, according to federal safety data, eclipsing a decade-old industry record and underscoring ongoing quality issues affecting millions of vehicles across multiple model lines.
New GDP numbers show U.S. economy grew faster than expected last quarter
The latest Commerce Department report shows the U.S. economy grew 4.3% in the third quarter, beating expectations as officials and analysts debate whether the momentum can last.
Student loan borrowers in default face wage garnishment starting Jan. 7
The Department of Education will begin garnishing wages from borrowers who have defaulted on federal student loans starting in early January.
Stimulus payment December 2025, IRS direct deposit relief payment & tariff dividend fact check
Hold off on that purchase! Online rumors of new stimulus checks by year’s end are out there.