Millions of workers left the labor force during the pandemic. Older workers have been slow to return, in part because many found themselves financially secure enough to retire.
Nearly 22 million people — more than half of qualifying borrowers — have signed up. The Biden administration says it is continuing to accept and review applications during the temporary hold.
Inflation is hitting Americans hard at home with prices soaring for electricity, groceries, rent, even breakfast. A carton of eggs is 30.5% more expensive than it was last year.
The highest rates in 20 years are dashing the dreams of some would-be homebuyers. Others stretch to buy but spend close to $1,000 a month more in monthly payments for a typical house.
Officials promised a robust review process before forgiving PPP loans, but most loans could be forgiven with a simple, one-page form. Meanwhile, just 2% of loans have gotten close, hands-on reviews.
New policies to keep medical bills from sinking credit ratings sound good but will likely fall short for many hit hardest by debt — especially Black Americans in the South, such as Penelope Wingard.
Russell Cook expected a quick, inexpensive visit to an urgent care center for his daughter after a car wreck. She wasn't badly hurt, but they were sent to an emergency room — for a much larger bill.
Stocks are down more than 20% this year. Usually when that happens bonds hold their value. But right now both are down sharply, hurting retirees and people saving for college in 529 plans.
Even after their babies died, hospital bills kept coming. These parents of fragile, very sick infants faced exorbitant bills — though they had insurance. "The process was just so heartless," one says.
Retailers have been complaining that credit card companies have the upper hand - charging them "swipe fees" when customers use cards. A bipartisan bill is in the works that could change that dynamic.