Pillar Financial Advisors, LLC

10/24/2026

"I'm so glad I live in a world where there Octobers."
- L. M. Montgomery

10/23/2026

10/23/2026

🎃 Filling the candy bowl is costing more this year.

Candy and chewing gum prices have climbed 8.1% over the past year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Chocolate prices are up, too, though estimates vary by source. 🍫

But higher prices aren’t necessarily keeping Americans out of the candy aisle.

The National Retail Federation expects Halloween spending to reach $13.5 billion this year, with 96% of Halloween shoppers expecting to buy sweets.

For many households, the holiday is one of those small traditions worth making room for, even when everyday expenses are taking a bigger bite out of their budgets.

Whether you’re picking up candy for trick-or-treaters or sneaking a few pieces for yourself, what’s the one Halloween candy you can’t resist? 🍬👻



Source:

Average prices for chewing gum and candy have soared 8.1% over the last year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

10/22/2026

Early estimates for the 2027 Social Security cost-of-living adjustment have moved lower as inflation moderates.

New projections suggest the 2027 COLA may fall between 3.4% and 3.6%.

The official adjustment has not been announced yet. The final number will depend on inflation data for July, August, and September.

Social Security COLAs are calculated using the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers, known as CPI-W.

July data showed CPI-W rose 3.4% over the past 12 months. The broader consumer price index also rose 3.4% year over year.

One estimate from AARP suggests a 3.5% COLA would raise the average retired worker’s benefit by about $73 per month.

For retirees and near-retirees, the COLA is an important reminder that inflation can affect income, purchasing power, household expenses, and long-term financial decisions.


Source:

New estimates show just how much Social Security benefits may increase in 2027, based on new government inflation data.

10/21/2026

Chris Rock once remarked, “You don’t pay taxes – they take taxes.” That applies not only to income, but also to capital gains.

Understanding how capital gains are taxed may help you refine your investment strategies.

10/20/2026

A common online security tool is now being used in a new type of scam.

Cybercriminals are increasingly using fake CAPTCHA prompts — the familiar “I’m not a robot” checks — to trick users into taking actions that can compromise their devices.

Instead of a simple verification, these prompts may ask users to click “Allow,” enable notifications, or follow additional steps that can lead to persistent pop-ups, phishing attempts, or unwanted software.

These scams often appear through ads, suspicious links, or redirected web pages, making them harder to spot at first glance.

Security experts note that legitimate CAPTCHA tests do not require enabling notifications, downloading files, or entering system commands — making those requests a potential red flag.

As these tactics evolve, staying cautious when interacting with unexpected prompts can help reduce exposure to online threats.


Source:

Cybercriminals are increasingly using fake CAPTCHA prompts to trick users into enabling malware and scam notifications Security experts warn the ta

10/19/2026

A few simple habits can go a long way toward helping keep your personal and financial information protected. How does cybersecurity connect to your broader financial picture? What steps are you taking at home and with your business?

10/16/2026

Do you have holiday travel plans outside of the U.S.?

Do you use Medicare? Here's what you need to know!

Medicare won't pay for hospitals, doctors, ambulances, dialysis treatment, or prescription drugs in foreign countries, except in extremely rare cases. There are some very complicated rules surrounding cruises too.

Bottom line? Don't count on Medicare in a foreign Country.

Travel

10/14/2026

Ever wondered what ETFs are (and no, we're not talking about electronic transfers)? Check out this simple guide that breaks down everything you need to know about this popular investment option!

Educational ETF infographic explaining benefits, types & mechanics. Features current statistics and citations.