The Internal Revenue Service reported higher tax refund checks for millions of Americans this filing season. Early data show a rise in average refunds compared to last year, providing financial respite to many households as spring approaches. In the week ending February 20, the average federal tax refund was $3,804. The weekly refund average was…
When a significant winter storm is coming, buyers rush to buy snow shovels, rock salt, generators, and other emergency goods. Prices often rise during these periods. Many shoppers fear illegal price gouging. That’s not always the case under New Jersey law. A declaration of emergency is needed to enforce price gouging in New Jersey. State…
The termination of COVID-19-era federal premium tax subsidies has thousands of New Jersey residents evaluating their health insurance choices this year. State officials claim the loss of that additional financial aid has already reduced enrollment and changed people’s coverage choices through GetCoveredNJ. According to Gov. Mikie Sherrill’s administration, 4,000 fewer people signed up for state…
First-time homebuying is exciting and scary. Make a budget, apply for a loan, collect checks, and sign closing paperwork. Beginners often make costly, distressing, or avoidable house-buying blunders. Prepare for these hazards to simplify the trip and make good financial decisions. First-time homebuyers generally underestimate property ownership costs. Property taxes, homeowners insurance, repairs, utilities, and…
New 2024 Census Bureau data shows how much New Jersey families make and how income levels vary by community. The figures demonstrate that despite the state is one of the highest-income, not all households benefit. The 2024 American Community Survey median household income in New Jersey was $104,294. Median income indicates half the families earn…
New Jersey households should check their mailboxes this week. State Treasury Department officials say all authorized Stay NJ property tax relief payments will arrive by paper check. Stay NJ benefits will not be deposited online like ANCHOR benefits. State officials say all qualified homeowners will get their payout via mail. Residents should carefully scrutinize their…
New Jersey homeowners face record property tax bills again. According to the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, the average property tax payment last year was $10,570. This is the second year in a row that the statewide average has exceeded $10,000, confirming New Jersey’s reputation for hefty property taxes. A $475 rise in the…
New Jersey drivers face the highest vehicle insurance rate hikes in the nation in 2026. New Jersey drivers will receive a 10.46% rate hike, the most in the nation, exceeding Nevada, California, and New York. New Jersey ranks eighth in car insurance costs, and these increases are raising them further. Experts say rates are raised…
Property taxes in New Jersey reached a record high in 2025, putting households under financial hardship again. New Jersey has the nation’s highest property taxes, and the average property tax bill has topped five figures for the second year in a row. Recent state data shows that the average New Jersey homeowner paid $10,570 in…
A one-time military housing payment delivered in December 2025 is tax-free, according to the IRS and Treasury. Eligible U.S. military personnel received $1,776, which is not taxed under federal law. This clarification helps military families who got the payout and were wondering if they needed to disclose it on their taxes. Under federal tax law,…
