Planning a Shopping Trip? These Iowa Stores Will Be Closed Easter Sunday
Local News

Planning a Shopping Trip? These Iowa Stores Will Be Closed Easter Sunday

If you're planning to run errands or do a bit of shopping on Easter Sunday this year, it’s best to get ahead of the game. A growing number of major retailers across Iowa will be closing their doors on April 20th for a full 24-hour “shopping blackout,” according to a report from The Mirror. Big-name stores like Target, Costco, Aldi, Five Below, Macy’s, JCPenney, Kohl’s, and others have announced they’ll be closed for the day to give employees a well-deserved break. Here’s a List of Stores that Will Be Closed on Easter Sunday: Aldi Best Buy Costco Five Below H-E-B JCPenney Kohl's Lowe's Macy's Marshalls Michaels Publix Sam's Club Target TJ Maxx While closing shop might seem like a missed sales opportunity, it makes solid financial s...
Trump Plans $1 Trillion Spending Cut: What It Means for Americans?
US News

Trump Plans $1 Trillion Spending Cut: What It Means for Americans?

Donald Trump has revealed plans to significantly reduce U.S. government spending, aiming for cuts totaling around $1 trillion. In a post on his social platform, Truth Social, the American President shared details of a recent meeting with the Speaker of the House and several conservative lawmakers. "Today I had a very good meeting with the Speaker of the House and some of our more conservative members, all great people. I let them know that I AM FOR A BIG POWERFUL SPENDING CUT! WE ARE GOING TO DO A REDUCTION, hopefully over $1 trillion," Trump wrote. He added that the proposed cuts would be included in "one big, beautiful bill," and emphasized the urgency of passing the legislation. "I, along with members of the House and Senators, will be pushing very hard for these massive spending ...
Could You Get $12,000? JP Morgan Boss Pushes Bold Plan for Americans
US News

Could You Get $12,000? JP Morgan Boss Pushes Bold Plan for Americans

Jamie Dimon, CEO of JPMorgan Chase, is calling for a significant expansion of the earned income tax credit (EITC), proposing that the government nearly double the benefit and extend eligibility to include more low-income workers, particularly those without children. Why It Matters? The EITC, first introduced in 1975, is a refundable tax credit aimed at helping low- to moderate-income earners. Unlike tax deductions, it directly reduces the amount of taxes owed and can even lead to a refund if a person owes no income tax at all. Currently, the maximum EITC benefit is $7,830 for a working parent with three or more children, while workers without children can receive up to just $600. Dimon argues that increasing the credit would provide critical financial support to families strug...
Big Changes to Social Security ID Checks Coming April 14
Social Security

Big Changes to Social Security ID Checks Coming April 14

Starting Monday, April 14, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will implement a new anti-fraud measure for claims filed over the phone. According to an update shared by the SSA on X (formerly Twitter), the agency will begin conducting fraud risk checks on all telephone claims. Claims that are flagged as potentially fraudulent will require in-person identity verification before they can be processed further. Claims that are not flagged will continue through the normal process without the need for in-person verification. This change follows the SSA’s recent decision to end over-the-phone identity verification, a move aimed at curbing fraudulent benefit claims. A press release dated March 26 explained that, with some exceptions—including those receiving Social Security Disabil...
What Is the Social Security Deductible for Medicare?
Social Security

What Is the Social Security Deductible for Medicare?

Medicare is a government-run health insurance program in the United States, primarily designed for individuals aged 65 and older, as well as certain people with disabilities. One of the key elements that beneficiaries need to understand is the concept of the deductible—the amount they must pay out-of-pocket before Medicare coverage begins. This deductible can vary depending on the specific Medicare plan, making it important to be familiar with the distinctions. Medicare Part A, which covers hospital stays, typically comes with a higher deductible. This can result in significant costs, especially if a beneficiary faces an extended hospitalization. In contrast, Medicare Part B, which covers outpatient care such as doctor visits and medical services, has a lower deductible. However...
Social Security Crisis? Breaking Down What’s Really Happening Now
Social Security

Social Security Crisis? Breaking Down What’s Really Happening Now

The Social Security Administration (SSA) is experiencing rapid and significant changes, with fintech executive Frank Bisignano on track to become its next commissioner. After his Senate Finance Committee hearing in late March, his nomination has moved forward and awaits a final Senate vote. If confirmed, Bisignano will take the reins of an agency that’s seen sweeping transformations under the Trump administration and the controversial Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk. Since President Joe Biden signed the Social Security Fairness Act in January, removing benefit-reducing provisions like the Windfall Elimination Provision and Government Pension Offset, the SSA has seen dramatic changes, most initiated by DOGE and aimed at curbing “fraud, waste, and abuse...
A recession can have profound and lasting effects on the Social Security system in the United States.
Social Security

A recession can have profound and lasting effects on the Social Security system in the United States.

A recession can have profound and lasting effects on the Social Security system in the United States. Economic downturns influence employment rates, wage levels, and investment returns, all of which are critical to the funding and sustainability of Social Security. Understanding these impacts is essential for policymakers and the public to navigate and mitigate potential challenges.​ 1. Decreased Payroll Tax Revenues Social Security is primarily funded through payroll taxes collected from current workers and their employers. During a recession, unemployment rates typically rise, leading to a reduction in the number of individuals contributing to the system. For instance, during the subprime mortgage crisis of 2008–2010, increased unemployment significantly reduced payroll tax income ...
Colorado’s ‘Welcome Home’ Event Honors Veterans and Recognizes Their Challenges
Local News

Colorado’s ‘Welcome Home’ Event Honors Veterans and Recognizes Their Challenges

In a heartfelt tribute to those who have served in the U.S. military, Colorado hosted the "Welcome Home" event to honor veterans and address the challenges they face. The gathering, held in Denver, provided a space for appreciation, reflection, and discussion about veteran support programs. The event included speeches from veterans, government officials, and representatives from veteran organizations. One key issue discussed was the difficulty many veterans face when transitioning back to civilian life, including challenges related to employment, mental health, and accessing medical care. Veterans who attended the event shared their experiences, with many expressing gratitude for the support they received but also calling for more comprehensive assistance programs. One Vietnam War ve...
Transgender Community and Supporters Rally at Colorado Capitol for Rights and Visibility
Local News

Transgender Community and Supporters Rally at Colorado Capitol for Rights and Visibility

In a powerful demonstration of unity and advocacy, members of Colorado's transgender community, along with their allies, gathered at the state Capitol to push for greater recognition, rights, and protections. The rally, which drew a diverse crowd of activists, lawmakers, and concerned citizens, was a response to the increasing challenges faced by transgender individuals in the state and across the country. The event was organized by local advocacy groups in response to a series of legislative efforts that they say threaten the rights of transgender individuals, particularly in areas such as healthcare, education, and workplace protections. Speakers at the rally emphasized the importance of policy changes that safeguard the rights of transgender people, including access to gender-affirmi...
Colorado Overcharged Businesses $5 Million for Unemployment Insurance Last Year, Refunds Underway
Finance

Colorado Overcharged Businesses $5 Million for Unemployment Insurance Last Year, Refunds Underway

In a significant financial oversight, Colorado businesses were overcharged a staggering $5 million for unemployment insurance in the previous fiscal year. The state authorities have since acknowledged the miscalculation and are now initiating the process of refunding affected businesses. Unemployment insurance, a safety net for workers who lose their jobs through no fault of their own, is funded through payroll taxes collected from employers. However, an error in the tax rate calculation resulted in many businesses paying more than their fair share. This overcharge affected thousands of businesses across the state, ranging from small enterprises to large corporations. The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE) identified the miscalculation during an internal audit. Offici...