TW Smith Planning & Investments

04/21/2026

The latest inflation data shows consumer prices continued to rise at a moderate pace in February.

The Consumer Price Index increased 0.3% for the month, bringing the 12-month inflation rate to 2.4%. Core inflation, which excludes food and energy, rose 0.2% for the month and 2.5% over the past year.

Housing and services were among the categories contributing to monthly increases, while some goods prices declined. Food prices rose 0.4% during the month, though egg prices were significantly lower compared with a year ago.

Overall, the report suggests inflation remained relatively stable, though still slightly above the Federal Reserve’s long-term target.



Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2026/03/11/cpi-inflation-report-february-2026.html

Disclosure:
For informational purposes only. Not investment advice or a recommendation. Data believed reliable but not guaranteed. Source: CNBC.

The consumer price index in February was expected to show a 2.4% increase from a year ago, according to the Dow Jones consensus.

03/09/2026

Missed your first chance to sign up for Medicare during the initial enrollment period? The General Enrollment Period runs each year from January 1 to March 31.

This window is for people who didn’t enroll when they were first eligible. If that’s you, now’s the time to take a closer look.

For full details on eligibility and enrollment, visit Medicare.gov.

03/02/2026

Just over 50 percent of homeowners still have mortgages with rates under 4 percent. But that number has been trending lower, especially in the past year. Are you thinking about making a change?

02/23/2026

April 15 is just under two months away! Just a friendly reminder that Tax Day is just around the corner. While many may have their ducks in a row, tax-wise, today is a good time to connect with your tax professionals to confirm you've met all the deadlines or make any necessary arrangements!

02/17/2026

https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/28/fed-rate-decision-january-2026.html

The Federal Reserve held its benchmark interest rate steady at its first meeting of 2026, signaling increased confidence in economic growth while noting that inflation remains somewhat elevated.

In its statement, the Fed pointed to steady expansion, slower but stabilizing job gains, and signs that labor market conditions are leveling out. Policymakers also suggested they are weighing inflation and employment risks more evenly than in recent months.

While rates remain unchanged for now, future decisions will continue to depend on incoming economic data and evolving conditions.

The Federal Reserve on Wednesday released its decision on interest rates.

02/09/2026

Even as overall inflation has cooled, food costs remain a persistent pressure for many households. New data shows U.S. food prices are up nearly 19% since 2022, driven by a combination of supply constraints, higher input costs, and ongoing demand.

Some of the factors contributing to higher prices include:
➡️ Rising costs for staples such as beef, coffee, and produce
➡️ Higher labor, transportation, and utility expenses across the food supply chain
➡️ Increased costs for dining out compared with grocery purchases
Because food is a frequent, unavoidable expense, changes like these tend to be felt quickly in household budgets, offering a clear snapshot of how inflation shows up in everyday spending.


Source:

Food prices in December saw their biggest jump in more than three years, data shows, while the cost of eating out has also risen.

02/02/2026

Big News for Your 2026 Retirement Plans!

The IRS announced new contribution limits for 2026 in November, and there's a lot to look forward to! Here's a quick breakdown:

🔹 401(k), 403(b), 457 Plans & TSP: Contribution limit increased to $24,500 (up from $23,500 in 2025). If you're 50 or older, you can contribute up to $32,500 annually!

🔹 IRA Contributions: Limit increased to $7,500. Catch-up contributions for those 50 and older are now $1,100.

🔹 Roth IRA & Saver’s Credit: Income phase-out ranges have increased, making it easier to qualify and maximize your savings.

🔹 SIMPLE Accounts: Contribution limit up to $17,000, with higher limits for certain accounts.

🔹 Medicare Part B: Monthly premiums will rise to $202.90, impacting how much of your Social Security COLA you'll see.

Stay up-to-date with details about your retirement savings! For full details, check out Notice 2025-67 on the IRS website.

With most retirement accounts, once you reach age 73, you must begin taking required minimum distributions. Roth accounts are the exception. Withdrawal penalties may apply if you take the money before age 59½. Roth IRA distributions must meet a 5-year holding requirement and occur after the account holder reaches age 59½.



Sources:
IRS.gov, November 13, 2025
CNBC, November 17, 2025

01/27/2026

https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/08/irs-accepting-tax-returns.html

The IRS has announced that it will begin accepting and processing individual federal tax returns for the 2026 tax season starting on January 26.

Here are a few important points to keep in mind:
➡️ Most individual returns are due by April 15 to avoid penalties and interest.
➡️ Filing early may help reduce delays related to processing or identity verification.
➡️ Refund amounts can vary based on withholding and recent tax law changes.

As tax season gets underway, reminders like these can help individuals stay aware of important dates and avoid last-minute filing challenges.

The 2026 tax season starts on Jan. 26, according to the IRS. Here are some key things filers need to know.

01/17/2026

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/economy-2026-outlook-affordability-rates-jobs-markets/

As the U.S. enters 2026, economists are watching several key factors that may influence the economic landscape in the year ahead. While growth held up better than expected in 2025, many households continue to feel pressure from elevated costs.

Among the biggest questions are whether inflation will continue to cool, how the Federal Reserve may respond to changes in employment, and whether housing affordability will improve gradually over time. Experts are also monitoring how the adoption of artificial intelligence could affect job growth and productivity, as well as whether stock market gains can be broadened beyond a small group of leading companies.

Taken together, these factors suggest a year shaped less by dramatic shifts and more by gradual adjustment, as businesses and consumers respond to evolving economic conditions.

From stubbornly high living costs to a softer labor market, economists say these are the forces that will shape the year ahead.