AmaWaterways: AmaMaya, AmaRudi, AmaFiora

Debut dates: October 2026; April 2027; spring/summer 2027

AmaWaterways’ three upcoming river ships visit ports around the world and all feature the line’s signature “twin-balcony” design (a combined French balcony and step-out veranda). Each ship is also committed to AmaWaterways’ health-focused sailings, with perks like onboard wellness coaches and fitness amenities. The line aims to operate more than 50 vessels by 2032.

Debuting in fall 2026, AmaMaya sails Southeast Asia along the Mekong River, carrying 120 passengers across 60 staterooms. Highlights include a top-deck swimming pool and top-notch dining venues reflecting the local cuisines of the region.

In Europe, AmaRudi floats out along the Danube starting in April 2027, while AmaFiora will be stationed on the that spring or summer. AmaRudi holds 196 guests and features spacious rooms suited to every type of cruiser, from to families. There are multiple restaurants and lounges on board, including a wine bar and a chef’s table experience, as well as a spa, a fitness center, and a small pool and whirlpool. AmaFiora is a slightly smaller ship, carrying 152 passengers. Its public spaces include an outdoor pool, a sun deck and deck club, a shopping boutique, and massage and fitness facilities.

American Cruise Lines: American Ranger, American Anthem

Debut dates: September 2026; April 2027

Launching in fall 2026, American Ranger carries 130 passengers and offers unique lounges and public spaces. Cruisers will especially enjoy the panoramic Sky Lounge and Sky Walk walking track. The Patriot Class vessel also features a special bow design for deeper drafts.

Meanwhile, the upcoming American Anthem riverboat is an identical sister ship of American Encore (which began sailing in May 2026); it hosts 180 guests and features modern decor, spa-like bathrooms (including tubs with river views and heated floors), walk-in closets, a gym and a multistory glass atrium.

Additional ships set to launch include American Mariner (May 2027), American Navigator (July 2027) and American Grace in 2028. American Cruise Lines sails waterways throughout the United States, including the , the Hudson and other domestic rivers.

Celebrity River Cruises: Celebrity Compass, Celebrity Seeker

Debut dates: August 2027; October 2027

A popular line with roughly 15 ocean vessels, makes its in summer 2027, with the debut of Celebrity Compass that August followed by Celebrity Seeker in October.

The sleek 172-passenger ships are virtually identical, with highlights like king-sized beds in every room, smart in-room tech, complimentary minibars and continental breakfast in bed, luxurious bathrooms, Skylight Infinite Balcony Suites, and numerous dining and lounging venues. Shore excursions, meals, select alcoholic beverages and Wi-Fi access are included in the base fare.

Looking ahead, Celebrity plans to launch three additional riverboats in 2028: Celebrity Wanderer, Celebrity Roamer and Celebrity Boundless. While upcoming itineraries are set to explore the Danube and Rhine rivers, the cruise line aims to operate 20 river ships worldwide by 2031.

CroisiEurope Cruises: RV Brasilian Dream

Debut date: January 2027

CroisiEurope Cruises currently sails 50-plus vessels throughout Europe, Asia and Africa, carrying between 16 and 200 passengers at a time (depending on the ship).

The launch of the RV Brasilian Dream in the new year marks CroisiEurope’s first sailing in South America — a big move for the value-focused European line. The holds just 32 cruisers and was built with sustainability in mind, including a hybrid power setup involving batteries and solar panels, as well as an advanced wastewater treatment system to protect the waterways.

As travelers cruise the , they can enjoy the catamaran-inspired ship’s sun deck, swimming pool, spa, gym, restaurant and lounge. Comfortable cabins, which are dressed in warm wood finishes and white linens, feature Wi-Fi access, private balconies and separate sitting areas.

Scenic Group (Emerald Cruises/Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours): Emerald Lumi, Scenic Aria

Debut dates: March 2027; September 2027

Split into two separate cruise lines — Emerald Cruises and Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours — Scenic Group currently operates nearly 30 river ships across Europe and Asia. The cruise provider plans to launch several more ships in the coming years, including Emerald Nova in Europe (June 2027), Scenic Spirit II on the (early 2028) and multiple luxury yachts.

Built to navigate the Seine River, Emerald Lumi will carry 130 passengers to explore historic ports across France when it debuts in spring 2027. The state-of-the-art vessel has a heated indoor pool area that changes to a cinema at night; roomy staterooms with private balconies; self-service laundry facilities; and more.

Meanwhile, Scenic Aria is set to debut in fall 2027, sailing two itineraries along Portugal’s Douro River. Aria is smaller than some of Scenic’s other vessels, welcoming just 96 passengers in its luxury accommodations — all of which come with butler service, plush robes and other cozy amenities. Public spaces include a walking track, an outdoor terrace and a small pool.

Tauck: MS Saudade, MS Reverie

Debut dates: Both April 2027

All-inclusive travel company Tauck plans to unveil two new riverboats in spring 2027. MS Saudade is designed to traverse historic villages along the Douro River. It has capacity for 84 guests and features a small pool on the sun deck, multiple dining venues with open seating, and a mix of suites and standard staterooms to suit every type of traveler.

Meanwhile, MS Reverie carries 124 passengers to picturesque destinations along the Seine. The ship features a sparkling swimming pool with an outdoor bar and dining area, spacious cabins, walk-in closets, a massage room, and enrichment experiences like culinary demonstrations and musical entertainment in the piano lounge.

In 2028, Tauck plans to launch another river ship along the , joining sister vessel MS Lumiere (which debuted in March 2026). Tauck currently sails a variety of river itineraries throughout Europe, from the Danube to the Rhine.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises: S.S. Marlene, S.S. Sao Rafael, S.S. Audrey

Debut dates: March 2027 (S.S. Marlene and S.S. Sao Rafael); April 2027 (S.S. Audrey)

Highly regarded for its pampering service, gourmet cuisine and boutique hotel-style ship design, Uniworld has a handful of new Super Ships on the horizon.

In March 2027, S.S. Marlene and S.S. Sao Rafael make their debut. S.S. Marlene — which holds 154 guests — will traverse the Danube. Common areas include a sun deck at the top of the ship, an indoor lounge, a main restaurant and a bar. Meanwhile, S.S. Sao Rafael joins sister ship S.S. Sao Gabriel (debuted in 2021) along the Douro River, offering amenities like a cozy wine bar, an outdoor swimming pool, a spa and a fitness center.

Covering the Rhine, Main and Moselle rivers, S.S. Audrey holds 154 cruisers across roughly 75 rooms, ranging from classic cabins to luxurious suites. Standard amenities across every accommodation include marble bathrooms, individual thermostats and other pleasantries, while high-level suites add perks like butler service, Nespresso coffee machines and complimentary daily snacks.

Viking River Cruises: Viking Sekhmet, Viking Brahmaputra

Debut dates: November 2026; late 2027

Known for its massive fleet of luxury river and ocean vessels, Viking plans to debut 22 new river ships (most of which are the line’s signature Longships) by 2028 — 10 with inaugural sailings in 2026. While many of these vessels will sail the waterways of Europe, two of Viking’s most notable new ships voyage through ports in Egypt, and another two will be introduced in India.

Viking Sekhmet (and identical sister ship, Viking Ptah) joins Viking’s rapidly expanding fleet of Egypt river vessels in fall 2026. With capacity for 82 guests, Sekhmet will explore pyramids, mosques and other historic sites along the . The riverboat offers a pool and sun deck, an alfresco dining venue and lounge, an onboard library, and several cabin categories to choose from — all of which include either a picture window or private balcony.

In late 2027, travelers looking to take an India river cruise can book the all-new Viking Brahmaputra, which carries 80 passengers and visits bucket-list destinations like Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, India, plus Kaziranga National Park. All staterooms and suites feature a private veranda, and public spaces include a spa and fitness center, an open-air bar and floor-to-ceiling windows across the vessel.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

manages U.S. News’ rankings — so she always has her finger on the pulse of the cruise industry. She has more than a decade of writing and editing experience, and she’s been interviewed by media outlets including , the and MarketWatch for her cruise expertise.

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Fortunately, if you’re wondering how to save money on gas, there are ways to reduce fuel costs without driving less. We’ve rounded up some of the best gas-saving apps available for Android and iPhone. All are free to download.

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1. GasBuddy

GasBuddy is arguably the best-known gas app, and it’s been around since 2000. Enter your ZIP code to compare gas prices at nearby stations. The app relies on user-reported prices along with station data, so while prices may not always be exact, they’re generally accurate.

If you’re looking for an app to find the cheapest gas near you, GasBuddy is a reliable option.

GasBuddy also offers a free card that connects to your bank account through its Pay with GasBuddy program. You’ll need to provide your address, driver’s license information and checking account routing number. By using the card for shopping and dining purchases, you can earn GasBack rewards to spend at the pump. The company says users can currently save up to 25 cents per gallon.

If you drive frequently, you can also sign up for GasBuddy Premium, which guarantees savings of 20 cents per gallon on up to 50 gallons each month, with discounts that can reach 50 cents per gallon. Membership costs $9.99 a month or $99 a year.

To use the app, you enter your ZIP code and gas prices appear for various gas stations in the area. The app relies on other users to report prices and data furnished by gas stations, so while it may not always be exact, it’s generally on the mark.

2. Gas Guru

Offered by Yellow Pages, Gas Guru shows gas prices in your area, and you can filter results by price, fuel grade and distance. The data comes from the Oil Price Information Service, or OPIS, which tracks retail fuel prices. You can also see what’s near each , making it easier to combine errands or find nearby restaurants.

3. AAA TripTik Travel Planner

AAA TripTik Travel Planner isn’t strictly a gas-price app, but it can help you save on fuel costs. While a paid AAA membership includes roadside assistance, TripTik is available to everyone at no cost.

The app shows gas stations and prices along your route and can also help you plan road trips. It includes information on more than 100,000 gas stations and EV charging locations nationwide.

4. MapQuest

While best known for navigation, the MapQuest mobile app can also locate gas stations along your route, compare prices and identify lower-cost options. It also offers traffic information, turn-by-turn directions and restaurant reservations.

5. Upside

Upside offers cash back on gas and on purchases at participating s and restaurants. Depending on the offer, you may need to upload a receipt through the app.

The app guarantees at least 1 cent per gallon in cash back, although rebates of 10 cents per gallon or more are common. You can receive your cash back through PayPal, your bank account or a digital gift card.

PayPal withdrawals under $15 and bank transfers under $10 each carry a $1 fee.

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6. Fuelio

Fuelio helps you monitor fuel costs in addition to finding cheaper gas. It tracks fill-ups, logs fuel economy and helps manage vehicle expenses, including maintenance, tolls and parking.

7. Earnify

If you fill up at BP gas stations regularly, the Earnify app offers savings of 5 cents per gallon. Amazon Prime members can link their account for an additional 5-cent discount, bringing total savings to 10 cents per gallon.

You’ll also earn points with every purchase. Points can be redeemed for additional fuel discounts or purchases inside participating convenience stores.

New members currently receive a 250-point welcome bonus.

8. Shell Fuel Rewards

You can use the Shell app to sign up for the Shell Fuel Rewards program and save 10 cents per gallon on your first fill up, 20 cents on your second and 30 cents on your third. After that, your savings depend on your membership tier.

Silver members receive 3 cents off per gallon. Gold members, who fill up at least six times within three months, receive 5 cents off per gallon. Drivers who fill up at least 12 times in three months, purchasing at least 10 gallons each visit, qualify for Platinum status and receive 10 cents off per gallon, along with additional in-store rewards and offers.

9. Speedy Rewards

Speedy Rewards rounds out our list of the best gas apps for Android and iPhone. Speedway customers can earn points on purchases such as gas and snacks.

Members earn 10 points per gallon of fuel and 20 points for every $1 spent on merchandise. Points can be redeemed for discounted gas or convenience store items. The app also lets users select monthly perks that can boost point earnings.

How Much You Spend on Gas Depends On Your State

Where you live plays a major role in what you’ll pay at the pump. Factors such as proximity to oil refineries, state fuel taxes, environmental regulations and transportation costs all influence gas prices.

Historically, drivers in many Western states tend to pay the highest prices, while states along the Gulf Coast often have some of the nation’s lowest prices because of their proximity to refineries.

Gas prices change frequently, so these ranges for regular fuel are only a snapshot based on recent .

Gas Savings Tips Summer 2026: Other Ways to Save

If you’re still looking for ways to lower your fuel costs, consider these strategies:

— Keep your tires properly inflated: Every tire has a recommended PSI (pounds per square inch) listed on the driver’s door jamb or in the owner’s manual. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, underinflated tires can reduce fuel economy by about 0.2% for every 1 PSI drop in average tire pressure. Properly inflated tires can also improve safety.

— Use the air conditioner sparingly: Running the air conditioner at maximum settings can increase fuel consumption.

— Fill up early in the week: A February 2026 GasBuddy analysis found that Sundays typically have the lowest gas prices, with average savings of 4 to 9 cents per gallon compared with later in the week. Mondays also tend to offer lower prices.

— Consider warehouse clubs: Warehouse clubs such as Costco, Sam’s Club and BJ’s Wholesale Club often sell gas at lower prices. Savings can range from 5 to 30 cents per gallon, but membership fees and travel distance may offset some of the benefit. This strategy makes the most sense if you already shop at the warehouse regularly.

— Use a rewards credit card: can provide 2% to 5% cash back or equivalent rewards on fuel purchases. For example, the Sam’s Club Mastercard offers 5% cash back on gas purchases on the first $6,000 spent annually, then 1% afterward. Combining a rewards card with lower-priced gas stations can increase your overall savings.

— Choose a more fuel-efficient vehicle: If you’re shopping for a new vehicle, consider one with better fuel economy or an electric vehicle to reduce or eliminate gasoline expenses.

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An index is simply a rules-based benchmark that determines which securities are included, how much weight each receives and when the portfolio is rebalanced. Those securities can include stocks, bonds, commodity futures and even cryptocurrencies.

For example, the S&P 500 is an index of large-cap U.S. companies selected based on factors such as size, liquidity and earnings consistency, with final additions and deletions approved by a committee. In general, investors cannot invest directly in an index because it is a mathematical construct.

A fund, by contrast, is an investment vehicle that owns a portfolio of securities. An is simply a fund that seeks to track the performance of a benchmark, either by replicating its holdings in full or via sampling a representative subset.

For retail investors, index-based strategies can be accessed via , which are open-ended pooled investment vehicles, and ETFs, whose shares trade throughout the day like stocks on exchanges such as the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq.

“For example, the Vanguard 500 Index Fund is available in both ETF (ticker: ) and mutual fund () form,” says Rodney Comegys, chief investment officer of Vanguard Capital Management and head of global equity at Vanguard. “Both offer exposure to the same index, have low costs and operate under the same regulatory structure.”

The key takeaway is that an index fund can be structured as either a mutual fund or an ETF, but not every ETF is an index fund. Many ETFs are actively managed, using research, quantitative models or manager discretion instead of tracking a benchmark.

For passive investors, the decision is more about whether they want an index-tracking strategy delivered through a mutual fund or ETF structure, where differences in trading, pricing, tax efficiency and transparency become most important.

So, at the end of the day, the question comes down to the difference between index mutual funds and index ETFs. Here’s a look at some of their key differences:

— Trading mechanics.

— Premiums and discounts.

— Tax efficiency.

— Portfolio transparency.

Trading Mechanics

Both index mutual funds and index ETFs are open-ended investment funds, meaning the number of units outstanding can expand or contract as investors add or withdraw money.

For mutual funds, those investor subscriptions and redemptions occur directly at the fund’s net asset value, or NAV, which is calculated by taking the total value of the fund’s assets, subtracting its liabilities and dividing by the number of units outstanding.

A mutual fund NAV is calculated once each trading day after the market closes. Investors can submit buy or sell orders throughout the day, but every order is executed at that single end-of-day NAV. As a result, mutual funds do not support intraday trading or limit orders.

ETFs work differently. Although they are also open-ended funds with a continuously calculated NAV, investors buy and sell ETF shares on a stock exchange rather than directly with the fund. Buyers transact at the ask price, sellers transact at the bid price. The difference between the two is known as the spread.

“Investors who value the flexibility to trade in real time with a variety of order types might prefer ETFs, while investors who prefer the simplicity of buying and selling shares only at the daily closing NAV might prefer a mutual fund,” says Comegys.

For most mutual fund investors, placing an order is straightforward because the only decision is how much money or how many shares to buy or redeem. ETFs, by contrast, trade like individual stocks. Investors can use different order types, including market orders, limit orders and stop orders, giving them greater control over execution, but also more room for error. The bid-ask spread is therefore important to monitor. ETF issuers typically publish the 30-day median bid-ask spread on each fund’s webpage. All else equal, narrower spreads reduce trading costs, while wider spreads increase them. Investors should factor this into the total cost of ownership for an ETF.

Finally, many ETFs also support listed options. These options allow more advanced investors to buy or sell calls and puts to hedge an existing position, speculate on future price movements or generate additional income through buy-write strategies. However, options trading can introduce extra risk.

“ETFs make it easy to react to every market headline, which is a feature until it becomes a liability, whereas an index mutual fund encourages patience,” argues Michael Ashley Schulman, partner at Cerity Partners. “An overlooked point is that convenience has a cost even when the expense ratio is the same; the easier it is to tap buy or sell, the more temptation creeps in.”

Premiums and Discounts

Investors buy and redeem mutual fund shares directly with the fund company at NAV, which is calculated once each trading day after the market closes. Because every investor transacts at that single NAV, there is no separate market price and therefore no possibility of trading at a premium or discount.

Because ETFs trade throughout the day, their market price can differ from their NAV. When the market price is above NAV, the ETF is said to trade at a premium. When it is below NAV, it trades at a discount. ETF issuers publish historical premium and discount data on their fund pages for investors to monitor.

In practice, however, premiums and discounts for most ETFs tend to remain small. The reason these pricing differences typically stay limited is the ETF mechanism, which allows specialized institutional participants called authorized participants to arbitrage away meaningful price discrepancies.

“While ETF shares trade throughout the day at market-determined prices, the creation and redemption process helps keep an ETF’s market price closely aligned with the value of its underlying holdings,” explains Carole Okigbo, global head of ETF capital markets and broker and index relations at Vanguard.

For example, if selling pressure becomes large enough that an ETF’s shares begin trading at a discount to NAV, an authorized participant can step in and arbitrage the difference.

The authorized participant buys the ETF shares on the stock exchange, exchanges a large block of them, called a creation unit, with the ETF sponsor for the underlying basket of securities, and then sells those securities at their full market value to earn a low-risk profit.

The buying pressure lifts the ETF’s market price, while redeeming shares reduces their supply, helping eliminate the discount and bring the ETF’s market price back toward its NAV.

The reverse occurs when strong investor demand pushes an ETF to trade at a premium to its NAV. In that case, an authorized participant purchases the underlying basket of securities, delivers it to the ETF sponsor and receives a creation unit of newly created ETF shares.

Those new ETFs shares are then sold on exchanges, increasing the ETF’s supply in circulation and helping bring its market price back down toward its NAV.

Tax Efficiency

In a mutual fund, when investors sell shares, the fund manager must raise cash to meet those redemptions. If there is not enough cash on hand, the manager may need to sell appreciated securities. Those realized capital gains accumulate and are typically passed through to all remaining shareholders as taxable capital gains distributions in December, even if they did not sell any fund shares themselves.

ETFs largely avoid this problem. Because transactions are completed “in kind” rather than by selling securities for cash, the ETF generally avoids realizing taxable capital gains inside the fund. As a result, ETFs have historically distributed far fewer capital gains than comparable mutual funds.

That said, index mutual funds remain substantially more tax-efficient than actively managed mutual funds. This is because their holdings generally change only when the underlying benchmark is rebalanced or reconstituted. For example, VFIAX has an annual portfolio turnover rate of just 2.4%.

Active mutual fund managers frequently buy and sell securities in an effort to outperform their benchmark, realizing gains whenever profitable positions are sold. Higher portfolio turnover generally increases the likelihood of year-end taxable capital gains distributions.

This is one reason many investors prefer actively managed ETFs, where the ETF creation and redemption mechanism can help offset some of the associated with higher portfolio turnover.

Portfolio Transparency

The final major difference investors should consider is portfolio transparency. Mutual funds generally disclose their portfolio holdings to the public on a quarterly basis through filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These reports may also include management commentary discussing notable contributors and detractors to performance, although such discussion is not always provided.

ETFs offer a much higher level of transparency. Most index ETFs publish their complete portfolio every trading day, allowing investors to see the exact basket of securities and their respective weights. Daily disclosure supports the ETF creation and redemption process, helping authorized participants accurately value the underlying portfolio and keep the ETF’s market price closely aligned with its NAV.

“With ETFs, real-time holdings are disseminated to allow investors to know exactly what they own, when they own it and how it fits into a broader portfolio,” says Matthew Bartolini, managing director and global head of research strategists at State Street Investment Management.

For ETF investors, that transparency provides several practical benefits. It makes it easier to monitor portfolio concentration, sector exposures, country allocations and individual holdings without waiting for quarterly filings. It also allows investors to identify style drift, verify that a fund continues to follow its stated strategy and better understand how it fits within an overall portfolio.

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And over the past few years, disruptions to supply chains have proven that agricultural commodities and related agricultural stocks involved in production can provide unique investing opportunities.

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With inflation rates running at more than 4% in 2026, chances are the tailwind for this sector won’t slow down anytime soon, either. So whether you’re looking to benefit from higher crop prices or simply add to your portfolio, these agricultural stocks and exchange-traded funds offer tactical ways to gain exposure to the long-term trend of growing global food demand:

*Denotes net asset value for ETFs. **Trailing-12-month yield.

Archer-Daniels-Midland Co. ()

Archer-Daniels-Midland is one of the world’s largest agricultural processors and commodity traders. Its primary business includes supplying ingredients for food and animal feed, and its product lineup includes grains, edible oils, flour, plant-based proteins and other agricultural ingredients. The company benefits from its global scale, diversified operations and more than a century of operation. Of note for income investors, ADM has also built a reputation as a reliable , with nearly a century of uninterrupted dividend payments and more than 50 consecutive years of dividend increases, making it an attractive option for long-term dividend growth.

Corteva Inc. ()

One of the world’s largest pure-play agriculture companies, Corteva was formed in 2019 when then-DowDuPont spun off its agriculture division as an independent company. Today, Corteva operates through two core segments: seeds and crop protection. Because nearly all of its revenue is derived from agriculture, this stock offers investors focused exposure to rising global food demand and farm productivity. One item of note, however, is that the company is expected to restructure in the fourth quarter of this year. Corteva plans to separate into two publicly traded companies: an independent seed and genetics business (Vylor) and a separate herbicide and pesticide company. Both these stocks may also be strong agriculture stocks to buy, but it will take real-world earnings reports to prove the wisdom of this move in the long run.

Bunge Global SA ()

Global farm products giant Bunge buys, processes and sells crops like soybeans, grains and oilseeds then turns these crops into products for end users. That includes everything from animal feed to biofuels to specialty additives. Its wide global network and involvement across the supply chain help it benefit from shifts in crop demand and pricing, and the company is well positioned to capitalize on steady long-term growth as populations grow and energy needs evolve. The megatrend of growth for both demand and pricing in foodstuffs is creating a big tailwind for this leading agriculture stock, as evidenced by expectations for roughly 30% revenue growth this fiscal year.

Deere & Co. ()

Deere is one of the best-known names in agriculture thanks to its iconic green and yellow farm equipment. The company manufactures tractors, combines, precision agriculture technology and construction equipment used around the world. Farmers tend to invest in new machinery when crop conditions and farm income are healthy, making Deere’s business somewhat cyclical. However, its strong brand, large dealer network and growing focus on precision farming technologies have helped it remain a leader in the industry. For investors seeking exposure to agricultural equipment and innovation, Deere remains one of the sector’s premier companies.

Nutrien Ltd. ()

Nutrien is one of the world’s largest agricultural input companies. It produces fertilizer and also operates an extensive retail network that supplies seeds, crop protection products, farm equipment and financial services to farmers. Its footprint spans across North and South America, Australia, and other regions. Fertilizer prices can fluctuate significantly, causing earnings and share prices to rise and fall with commodity markets. However, Nutrien’s business model at the front of the agricultural food chain, plus global reach and leadership in potash production, make it well positioned to benefit from long-term growth in agricultural productivity.

VanEck Agribusiness ETF ()

Looking beyond individual stocks, the VanEck Agribusiness ETF offers broad exposure to the agricultural industry. The fund invests in companies involved in farming equipment, fertilizers, seeds, livestock health and agricultural processing. Its holdings include many of the sector’s largest companies, including Corteva, Deere and Nutrien, as top positions. MOO has been the leading agribusiness stock ETF since its inception in 2007 and currently commands almost $1 billion in assets to make it the largest and most established option for investors.

Invesco DB Agriculture Fund ()

Even bigger is this $1.2 billion Invesco fund, which ranks as the largest agriculture ETF by assets, as well as one of the largest on Wall Street. It takes a different approach by investing in agricultural products directly via futures markets rather than publicly traded stocks. Its holdings include contracts for cattle, corn, wheat, soybeans and sugar. Because commodity prices move separately from the typical Wall Street stock pressures, that can provide diversification and returns that are not correlated to other investments. That can be good in certain circumstances, but also disappointing if Wall Street rallies while the performance of agricultural futures lag. Keep this unique nature in mind when looking for the right agricultural stocks and ETFs for your personal portfolio.

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If you’re caring for an aging loved one and sometimes feel like you need a break, it might be time to consider a trial, respite or short-term stay in an . These lower-commitment placements can enable family caregivers to work, travel or do other things they need to without worrying that an older loved one is being cared for properly in their short-term absence.

Here, we unpack what you need to know about trial and short-term stays in assisted living communities.

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What Are Short-Term Assisted Living Stays?

Alicia M. Brown, a nurse and marketing director at Everlasting Services, a Phoenix-based assisted living community that specializes in caring for adults with traumatic brain injuries, strokes and memory loss, says the short-term stays are exactly that: brief durations of living in the assisted living community on a trial basis.

“Our ‘trial stay’ is widely known as ‘,'” Brown says, and this is ideal for individuals who’ve been cared for at home by a significant other or family caregivers for years.

Particularly as both the caregiver and the resident ages, the care often becomes more demanding. In a recent, 42% of caregivers reported feeling constantly or often overwhelmed by their caregiving duties. Respite care can provide a much-needed break to help prevent caregiver burnout.

In addition to providing a break for caregivers, starting with a trial or respite stay allows families that are looking for long-term care options the opportunity to test the waters and see whether a particular community is a good fit, Brown explains. It’s understandable to try it before you buy it, so to speak, because moving to an assisted living community is “a big decision,” she notes.

What’s more, to another assisted living can be difficult on residents and particularly confusing for those with memory care issues. Such moves can erode trust and make convincing them it’s time for placement even more difficult, she says.

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Who Needs an Assisted Living Trial Stay?

Anyone who needs a caregiving break or wants their loved one to try out a community before fully committing can usually take advantage of a . Not all communities offer them, but many do.

Ashley Gloystein-Klatt, senior vice president of marketing and communications at Agemark Senior Living, a senior living company headquartered in Orinda, California, says that at Agemark, “short-term stays are based on space and availability, and there may be minimum or maximum stay limits depending on available spaces and state regulations.”

Nevertheless, she says Agemark likes offering short-term stays because these can “help families or caregivers who need to work, travel or take a short break from caregiving responsibilities.” They provide a supportive environment for the older person while the caregiver does what they need to do.

Second, Gloystein-Klatt says these stays allow families to “dip a toe in the water” and test out living at a community before making a long-term decision. “It’s rare to be able to test your new home before actually making a commitment, so it’s a really smart thing for families and potential residents to take advantage of this,” Gloystein-Klatt says.

Getting to experience a place before committing to living there indefinitely can help both the individual and caregiver feel more comfortable with the big decision to move.

Finally, Gloystein-Klatt says short-term stays can be a good bridge between a medical procedure and a return home. “We’ve had people take advantage of living with us for a short time to rehabilitate, use our amenities/facilities, complete doctor-ordered services such as or access our therapy services on their own and recuperate so they can safely return home,” she says.

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How Long Should an Assisted Living Trial Stay Be?

Trial stays can vary depending on the community and the reason the person needs short-term care or is considering moving to a particular assisted living facility longer-term.

“There is quite a bit involved to set up a stay,” Brown notes, which can include:

— Obtaining a completed plan of care or paperwork from an ordering provider

— Getting family caregivers to fill out necessary paperwork, including a respite agreement or other short-term contract

— Ordering prescriptions

— Getting a room ready

— Learning about and how best to cater to them

— Strategizing for how to manage any difficult behaviors the individual might display

“It can take a marketing coordinator several days, hours a day, to track down all the documents necessary,” Brown adds. This could include copies of the person’s durable , guardianship paper, living will and so on.

Because of all this work, Brown says, “a two- to three-day stay doesn’t make fiscal sense on the part of the assisted living community, and often they require at least a week-long stay.”

How Much Do Short-Term Stays Cost?

Families may be charged a daily rate based on a number of factors including geographic location and services provided.

“The more services needed, the higher the daily rate,” Brown explains. But, she says, you should expect to pay $300 to $500 per day or more for respite stays that include meals, medication administration, around-the-clock staffing and the cost of the room.

At Lakeshore Woods Senior Living in Michigan, respite stays typically about $350 per night, says Steven Larsen, owner of Lakeshore Woods Senior Living and founder and CEO of the Michigan Cognitive Recovery Center. But prices vary across facilities and services provided.

At Lakeshore, short-term stays typically require a four- to five-night minimum, he says. But, “pricing can vary based on the market, apartment type and the type of care needed.” He recommends reaching out to the community you’re considering for price details because “there is no universal rate.”

Potential Drawbacks to Short-Term Stays

Because short-term stays entail a formal move-in process, Larsen says that some individuals may find that short-term stays can and lead to emotional distress and confusion.

They can also cost more than a permanent placement, especially if the stay is extended rather than committing to a longer-term arrangement, Larsen says.

“Availability can also be hard to find at times, so the right bed or schedule may not always be available when caregivers need,” Larsen notes.

How to Select a Good Assisted Living Community for a Trial or Short-Term Stay

Finding the right community takes time and research. Brown recommends you’re considering first to make sure it can meet your loved one’s needs.

If your loved one is still active, she recommends looking for they will enjoy.

And when touring, consider whether other residents seem happy and well cared for and whether staff members are trying to meet their needs appropriately. Talk to staff members, ask about staff-to-resident ratios and get a sense for whether this feels like a place that can look after your loved one as well as you do.

FAQ

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A comprehensive of 98 studies found that about one in five older adults worldwide is malnourished, and in the Americas specifically, that number climbs to more than 20%. The more rigorous criteria, which are now endorsed by major scientific societies worldwide, revealed an even greater prevalence of malnutrition, reaching 50% among older patients who are hospitalized or who live in .

Malnutrition is re-emerging as a leading cause of death in the aging U.S. population, with deaths related to malnutrition among the oldest Americans rising nearly 6% annually for the past two decades, according to . Despite its impacts on longevity and , malnutrition is routinely overlooked and undertreated, especially among older adults.

[READ: ]

The Impact of Malnutrition on Healthy Aging and Longevity

Malnutrition sets off a cascade of physiological harm that can shorten life. It , slows recovery from illness, prolongs hospital stays and increases the risk of premature death.

One of the most alarming consequences is , the progressive loss of muscle mass and strength. When is chronically insufficient, the body essentially cannibalizes its own muscle tissue for fuel. on the “malnutrition-sarcopenia syndrome” shows that when these two conditions occur together — as they frequently do — the risk of mortality rises substantially compared with sarcopenia alone.

A related condition called osteosarcopenia, or the combination of sarcopenia and low bone density, is also gaining attention. A found an overall prevalence of 21% among older adults, with females significantly more vulnerable. Osteosarcopenia is associated with an , fractures, hospitalization and death.

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What Causes Malnutrition in Older Adults?

Malnutrition doesn’t happen overnight. It builds slowly, often invisibly, as a result of multiple forces.

“As we age, a variety of factors can make it more difficult to consistently meet your nutrition needs, including a , changes in taste and smell, dental issues, certain medications, chronic health conditions and difficulty shopping or preparing meals,” says Liz Weiss, a longevity-focused registered dietitian and founder of

“These challenges can make it harder to consume enough on a regular basis,” she says. “As a result, older adults are at greater risk for falling short on key nutrients.”

In particular, Weiss notes that some of those key nutrients that older adults often fall short on include:

— Protein

—

—

— Calcium

— Zinc

—

One of the most significant changes is a phenomenon sometimes called , a gradual decline in appetite that affects an estimated 15 to 30% of older adults. Several physiological changes associated with aging can lead to this loss of appetite, including:

— Slower gastric emptying, which creates a persistent feeling of fullness

— Hormonal changes that reduce hunger signals.

[READ: ]

6 Common Nutrient Deficiencies in Seniors

For each of the nutrients mentioned as common deficiencies, here’s why seniors are at risk for that particular nutrient, as well as the health impacts of not getting enough of each.

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Warning Signs and Physical Symptoms of Malnutrition in Seniors

One of the most challenging aspects of malnutrition in older adults is that its signs are easy to miss, both by older adults themselves and by the clinicians and family members who care for them.

“Malnutrition is not simply a matter of looking thin,” says a professor of nursing at Drexel University and prominent researcher on healthy aging. “An older adult can have poor intake, muscle loss, or nutrient deficiencies even when they are overweight or obese.”

Families should watch for changes from the older person’s usual patterns, such as declining strength, more fatigue, trouble walking, or less ability to shop, cook or feed themselves, says Dimaria-Ghalili.

Malnutrition can also result from food insecurity, says a registered dietitian and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. “Not having enough to eat, especially for financial reasons, may feel shameful and cause a person to keep their struggles hidden.

For those experiencing food insecurity, there are many community programs to help older adults with food access, Bruning says. Some also include a , and in some states,are more easily accessible for older adults.

Physical signs of malnutrition to watch for include:

— Dry, thin or papery skin

— Hair loss or thinning

— Sunken eyes

— Prominent bones

— Difficulty swallowing

— Persistent mouth sores

Fatigue, and reduced appetite are so commonly written off as “normal aging” that genuine malnutrition often goes unaddressed for months or years.

The key is knowing the difference between the gradual, predictable changes that come with age and the more urgent signals that warrant a closer look.

Assessing malnutrition in older adults

The is a validated screening tool that can identify adults 65 and older who are malnourished or at risk of malnutrition.

If you or your parent has experienced any of the following in the past three months, a more detailed nutrition evaluation and a conversation with a physician or may be needed:

— Unintentional weight loss, even modest

— Reduced appetite or noticeably smaller meals

— Acute illness, surgery or hospitalization

— , or loss of a spouse

— Increased difficulty chewing or swallowing

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Strategies to Prevent and Address Malnutrition

Malnutrition is not an inevitable part of aging. Prevention is possible and it doesn’t require a perfect diet, says Weiss. “Often, it’s the small daily habits — eating regularly, prioritizing nutrient-dense familiar foods, and addressing barriers to eating — that help support good nutrition over time.”

Here are some strategies to stay well-nourished:

— Prioritize protein at every meal

— Consider food swaps to boost nutrient density

— Make meals social

— Consider nutrition supplements

— Work with a registered dietitian

Prioritize protein at every meal

Older adults need more protein than younger adults to maintain muscle. As we age, our muscles become less responsive to protein — something called “anabolic resistance.” That’s why 1.0 to 1.5 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily, substantially above the general adult . This translates to 25 to 30 grams of protein per meal.

“Rather than saving protein for dinner, include a source of protein at each meal and snack,” says Weiss. She recommends , , cottage cheese, fish, chicken, tofu, lean ground beef, and lentils at each meal. For protein-rich snacks, Weiss suggests cheese, nuts, hummus and ready-to-drink protein shakes.

Consider food swaps to boost nutrient density

When appetite declines with age, it’s important to make every bite count. “By making a few simple swaps and additions, older adults can boost their intake of protein and other key nutrients without significantly increasing portion sizes,” says Weiss.

Some small food substitutions can add up to meaningful nutrient gains:

— Choose Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt for extra protein, and use in place of mayonnaise in chicken salad, egg salad or dips.

— Instead of white toast with butter, choose a slice of toast topped with an egg, cottage cheese or peanut butter.

— Top salads with diced grilled chicken, salmon, beans, hard-cooked eggs or cheese instead of eating vegetables alone.

— Replace broth-based soups with heartier versions that contain beans, lentils, chicken or lean ground beef.

— Keep ready-to-drink protein shakes on hand for days when preparing snacks feels overwhelming.

— Fortify everyday foods by stirring powdered milk or into oatmeal, mashed potatoes, soups or casseroles.

[SEE: ]

Make meals social

and isolation are among the strongest predictors of poor nutritional intake in older adults, reveal. People tend to eat more and enjoy meals more when they eat with others. Weiss suggests sharing meals with family members, inviting a neighbor for lunch, joining a friend or loved one over Zoom, FaceTime or another video platform.

Meals on Wheels, senior nutrition programs, congregate dining sites and food banks specifically serving older adults can be lifelines for those with limited mobility, finances or social isolation. consistently shows that home-delivered and congregate meal programs improve calorie and protein intake in vulnerable older adults. For many people, these programs are a cornerstone of.

Consider nutrition supplements

Protein shakes and fortified beverages are practical ways to increase calorie and protein intake for older adults who struggle to meet needs through food alone. These work best as additions to meals, not . Talk with a registered dietitian about whether are appropriate and which products fit specific needs and medical conditions. have shown that oral nutrition supplements during and after hospitalization improved health outcomes and decreased risk of death in malnourished older adults.

Work with a registered dietitian

Registered dietitians, especially those with geriatric expertise, are a valuable resource to conduct nutrition assessments and create individualized eating plans that account for medical conditions, medications and food preferences.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has launched the to provide guidance on the prevention and treatment of malnutrition in older adults, says Bruning. The guidelines identify oral , food fortification, and home-delivery and congregate meals as effective strategies that should be considered for nutrition care.

The Bottom Line

For older adults, maintaining adequate nutrition is not simply about avoiding hunger. It is about preserving mobility, and independence.

Malnutrition is an underestimated threat that requires awareness, early action and the right support to prevent. The most powerful tool in the fight against it is paying close attention to what, and how much, older adults are eating and treating nutrition with the same urgency as any other vital sign.

Healthy isn’t just about avoiding disease, it’s about nourishing the body with what it needs to function, heal and thrive at every decade of life. For older adults, that means eating with intention, recognizing when something feels off and asking for help when eating becomes a struggle.

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In January 2026, the released a new vaccine schedule that reduces the number of vaccines it recommends for children and teens. The vaccines it recommends protect against 11 diseases, such as and polio, compared with 17 previously.

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How the CDC Vaccine Guidance Has Changed

The CDC has shifted how it recommends several vaccines. Instead of being routine for everyone, some shots are now reserved for specific high-risk groups or designated for “shared clinical decision-making.” This means that you and your child’s doctor should talk it over and decide together if the vaccine is right for your family.

This applies to vaccines for:

—

— Hepatitis A

— Hepatitis B

— Influenza

— Meningococcal disease

—

The vaccine guidance from the CDC veers away from existing guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics, which still endorses a more comprehensive vaccine schedule for children and teens.

The has been formally endorsed by 12 medical organizations, including the American Medical Association and the Infectious Disease Society of America. And more than 230 medical and health organizations support the updated AAP immunization schedule, the reports in March 2026.

Due to a lawsuit filed by the American Academy of Pediatrics, a court order has temporarily blocked the CDC’s reductions, meaning the CDC is technically still using its older, more comprehensive 2025 schedule.

“Parents and families rely on a coordinated message from authorities they trust, whether it’s the CDC or the AAP,” says Dr. Graham Tse, a board-certified and chief medical officer of MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital in Long Beach, California. “This (disagreement) leads to lower vaccination uptake, vaccine hesitancy and ultimately, fewer vaccines.”

The disagreement comes as the U.S. has seen an increase in vaccine-preventable illnesses. The CDC reported more than in the first two months of 2026. In 2025, there were 2,281 confirmed cases, which was the highest total since 1992.

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Vaccine Guidance for Your Children

Recent vaccine recommendation changes can make it difficult to find reliable information about which vaccines your children need.

“It’s even confusing for myself as a pediatrician. My advice is to stop, pause and take a breath. There are resources and help,” Tse says.

The best first step is to meet with your child’s physician and find out which vaccines they think your child needs.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions if anything is unclear.

“Speaking with your trusted pediatrician and asking any questions in a personal setting is the best way to get the information from someone you can trust who knows your child,” says Dr. Katharine Clouser, a pediatric hospitalist with at Hackensack University Medical Center in Edison, New Jersey.

In addition to information from the AAP’s website at HealthyChildren.org and the the CDC’s Vaccines for Your Children site, experts recommend finding information at:

— , a nonprofit site that provides up-to-date vaccine information,

— , maintained by the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia

“Lean on experts you trust, not political messaging,” Tse advises.

[See: ]

Are Vaccines for Children and Teens Safe and Effective?

Yes. Studies have found that vaccines are safe and effective in preventing illness. Between 1994 and 2023, childhood vaccines prevented an estimated 508 million illnesses, 32 million hospitalizations and 1.13 million deaths, according to a 2024 from the CDC.

The most common side effects of childhood vaccines include:

— Fatigue

— Fussiness

— Redness or swelling at the injection site

“Parents can administer after the vaccines if needed for some of these side effects,” says Dr. Danelle Fisher, a board-certified pediatrician at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California.

[Read: ]

Vaccine Side Effects vs. When to Call the Doctor

A major driver of vaccine hesitancy is fear of adverse reactions. This chart helps parents distinguish between normal immune responses and rare, serious symptoms.

Is Spacing Out Vaccines OK?

While healthcare providers may give multiple shots at milestone age visits, some parents still want to space them out

However, experts say it’s not necessary to space them out for the following reasons:

— Spacing leaves your child vulnerable if they’re exposed to a virus or bacteria and don’t have protection for it.

— It doesn’t increase vaccine uptake or effectiveness by the immune system.

— It doesn’t lessen the chance of side effects.

— You’ll likely have to return to the provider’s office for more shots, which could be even more stressful for your child. Plus, those extra appointments may fall off your schedule as life gets in the way.

“If a baby were to have a side effect, we would likely be able to figure it out,” says Dr. Molly O’Shea, an American Academy of Pediatrics spokesperson and a pediatrician with Birmingham Pediatrics + Wellness Center in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. “Getting the vaccines as scheduled is the sweet spot for protection, timing and immune stimulation.”

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15 Recommended Vaccines for Children

Here are the vaccines recommended by the, the or both.

1. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV-mAb)

is a viral infection that usually affects the nose and throat but also can affect the lungs. It’s especially serious for infants and young children, although its initial symptoms are similar to a cold.

Before the RSV vaccine was introduced, it was the top cause of infant hospitalization, according to the .

Much like the flu, RSV has a season that runs from October to March and peaks during the winter.

RSV vaccine schedule for children

RSV may be one of the first two vaccines your child is given, as it’s recommended to be given within one week after your child is born. However, a during weeks 32 to 36 of pregnancy can protect a child from RSV.

Who recommends the RSV vaccine: Both the CDC and the AAP recommend this vaccine if the mother didn’t previously have protection or if their RSV vaccine status is unknown.

2. Hepatitis B (HepB)

The vaccine for hepatitis B protects against a viral type of liver infection that can lead to liver failure, liver cancer and death.

HepB vaccine schedule for children

A HepB vaccine is recommended to be given within 24 hours of birth, with two more doses being given before 18 months, for a total of three doses.

Who recommends this vaccine: The AAP recommends the HepB vaccine for all children, regardless of their mother’s infection status.

The CDC recommends it for infants with mothers who have tested positive for hepatitis B or whose hepatitis B status is not known. The CDC says this vaccine should be part of shared clinical decision-making, meaning between parents and the child’s physician.

3. Haemophilus Influenzae Type B (Hib)

Hib is a bacterial infection that can affect different parts of the body, including the brain and spinal cord. It can lead to meningitis (a severe type of inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord) and pneumonia.

Hib is highly contagious, as its symptoms appear after a person is already contagious. Outbreaks of Hib at a daycare or in the home can be very dangerous, which is one major reason why this vaccine is recommended.

Hib vaccine schedule for children

The Hib vaccine is another two-month vaccine, and it’s given in three or four doses with the final dose being given before 18 months.

Who recommends the Hib vaccine: Both the CDC and the AAP recommend the Hib vaccine.

4. Pneumococcal Conjugate (PCV15, PCV20)

The pneumococcal conjugate vaccine fights against the pneumococcal infection, or various types of that can affect a child’s bloodstream, ears, lungs or sinuses. Although the pneumococcal conjugate can’t prevent all types of pneumonia, it fights against the most serious types.

PCV vaccine schedule for children

The pneumococcal vaccine is recommended at two months of age, and is given in a set of four doses before 18 months.

Who recommends PCV15/PCV20 vaccine: Both the CDC and the AAP recommend the pneumococcal vaccine.

5. Inactivated Poliovirus (IPV < 18 yrs)

The inactivated poliovirus vaccine fights against polio disease, a viral infection that can affect the brain and nerves. It can lead to paralysis and death.

Some people may recall polio cases from when they were younger, with severe patients having to use an iron lung to breathe. Since the polio vaccine was introduced in 1955, it’s been nearly eradicated globally. Cases have decreased by 99% since the late 1980s, according to the .

IPV vaccine schedule for children

Starting at two months, and given in four doses (3 before the age of 18 months, one final dose between four and six years).

Who recommends this vaccine: Both the CDC and the AAP recommend the IPV vaccine.

6. Rotavirus

Rotavirus is a viral infection affecting the gut that can cause severe . It’s the leading cause of diarrheal disease in children, and before the development of the vaccine, nearly every child in the United States would have a rotavirus infection before the age of five.

Rotavirus vaccine schedule for children

Starting at two months, the rotavirus vaccine is given in either two or three doses depending on the brand given.

Who recommends this vaccine: The AAP recommends it for all children.

The CDC says this vaccine should be part of shared clinical decision-making, meaning between parents and the child’s pediatrician.

7. COVID-19

COVID-19’s potential impact is no mystery. It’s caused by a virus, and while it’s no longer dictating our day-to-day lives, COVID is still a very dangerous disease, especially for young children and for older adults.

COVID-19 vaccine schedule for children

can start at six months, and can be repeated yearly.

Who recommends this vaccine: The AAP recommends it for all children.

The CDC says this vaccine should be part of shared clinical decision-making, meaning between parents and the child’s physician.

[READ: ]

8. Influenza

The protects against this viral infection of the nose, throat and lungs. It can lead to pneumonia, sinus and ear infections or death. Every year, the flu vaccine is updated based on predictions of which strains will be prevalent each flu season.

Flu vaccine schedule for childrenVaccination can start at six months, and can be repeated yearly.

Who recommends this vaccine:The AAP recommends it for all children.

The CDC says this vaccine should be part of shared clinical decision-making, meaning between parents and the child’s physician.

9. Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)

The MMR vaccine fights against three infections.

Measles, mumps and rubella (also called German measles) are all types of viral infections.

Both measles and mumps can lead to brain swelling and death; mumps also can lead to deafness.

Rubella is particularly harmful for pregnant women as it can cause a , stillbirth or severe birth defects.

MMR vaccine schedule for children

Two doses, starting at one year of age.

Who recommends the MMR vaccine:Both the CDC and the AAP recommend the MMR vaccine.

10. Hepatitis A

The hepatitis A vaccine protects against hepatitis A, a viral infection that can lead to liver failure or death.

Hepatitis A vaccine schedule for children

This two-dose series is recommended at one year of age, or possibly younger in certain situations.

Who recommends this vaccine: The AAP recommends it for all children.

The CDC recommends it for those traveling to areas where hepatitis A is more common. The CDC says this vaccine should be part of shared clinical decision-making, meaning between parents and the child’s physician.

11. Chickenpox (Varicella)

The varicella vaccine protects against chickenpox, which can cause brain swelling, pneumonia or death.

Chickenpox is also known for its familiar spot-like rash blisters. Chickenpox spreads easily in the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks or if someone touches infected blisters.

Chickenpox vaccine schedule for childrenTwo doses, starting at one year of age.

Who recommends this vaccine:Both the CDC and the AAP recommend the chickenpox vaccine.

12. Diphtheria, Tetanus, Acellular Pertussis

This vaccine is called DTaP for those under 7 years old. Tdap refers to the reduced-strength booster for ages 7 and older.

The DTaP vaccine protects against three different infections:

— Diphtheria is caused by a bacteria that can affect the nose, throat or skin. It can lead to swelling of the heart, heart failure or even death.

— Tetanus, also called lockjaw, is an infection caused by bacteria. It can affect the brain and nerves and possibly lead to seizures, breathing problems or death.

— Acellular pertussis, better known as whooping cough, is a type of contagious bacterial infection that’s especially harmful for babies. It affects the lungs and airways and can lead to pneumonia or death.

DTaP vaccine schedule for children

DTaP is the full-strength version of the vaccine, given in four or five doses starting at two months of age. Tdap is the reduced-strength version given as a booster shot around age 11 or 12.

Who recommends DTaP/Tdap for children:Both the CDC and the AAP recommend DTaP.

13. HPV (Human Papillomavirus)

Human papillomavirus is a type of viral infection spread during sex and close skin-to-skin contact. It can cause genital warts and several types of cancers, including , penis and throat cancer. Getting the vaccine can prevent more than 90% of the cancers caused by HPV, according to the . Since the vaccine was introduced, the number of pre-cancers in vaccinated women has decreased by 40%, the CDC reports. There has also been a decrease in the number of genital warts cases since the vaccine was introduced in 2006.

HPV vaccine schedule for children

Given starting at 9 to 12 years (AAP guidance) or 11 to 12 years (CDC guidance) as part of a two-dose series.

Who recommends the HPV vaccine: Both the CDC and the AAP recommend the HPV vaccine.

In its updated guidelines, the CDC switched from recommending two doses of the HPV vaccine to just one dose, stating that research has found it is as effective as the previous two-dose series.

14. Meningococcal Disease (MenACWY and MenB)

Meningococcal disease is a bacterial infection that can lead to brain swelling (meningitis) or infection in the bloodstream, also called sepsis. Symptoms can come on quickly and be life-threatening. There are two main types of vaccines, the MenACWY vaccine, which protects against A, C, W and Y serogroups, and the MenB vaccine, which protects against serogroup B disease.

MenACWY and MenB vaccine schedule for children

MenACWY is a two-dose series that’s usually recommended for children starting at age 11, but can be given much earlier in certain situations.

Who recommends this vaccine: The AAP recommends it for all teens.

The CDC now recommends MenACWY only for certain high-risk groups, first-year college students and those going to countries where meningococcal disease is more common. It recommends MenB for high-risk groups, such as those with anatomic or functional asplenia. Some colleges may highly recommend the MenB vaccine in addition to the MenACWY vaccine.

The CDC says the meningococcal vaccine should be part of shared clinical decision-making, meaning between parents and the child’s physician.

15. Dengue

The dengue vaccine protects against an infection that spreads via an infected mosquito. It can lead to liver or heart damage, seizures and death.

Who recommends this vaccine: Both the CDC and AAP recommend it for children living in areas where dengue is endemic (more common) and who have a previous laboratory confirmation of dengue infection. The affected areas include American Samoa, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

[SEE: ]

Where to Find Vaccines If They Aren’t at the Provider’s Office

If your child’s provider is out of a certain vaccine or doesn’t offer vaccines, there are other places where you can turn. These include:

— Your local Department of Health

— Community vaccination events

— Some

— Vaccine events held at local schools

— Your local pharmacies (although there may be some age restrictions)

Bottom Line

While conflicting guidance from top health institutions can make decisions difficult, it’s important to remember that you and your child’s doctor both have the same goal: Everyone agrees that keeping your child safe and healthy is the highest priority. Work with your child’s provider to learn more about vaccinations, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

“We want to hear what you’re thinking. We won’t judge you or assume you’re ‘anti-vax’ if you have questions, so please ask,” O’Shea says.

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Here’s everything you need to know about down payments, from how they impact your mortgage and homebuying experience to choosing the ideal amount for your specific circumstance.

[See: ]

What Is a Down Payment?

A down payment is the lump sum you initially pay out of pocket when you buy a home, usually a percentage of the home’s purchase price. How much you put down will affect your going forward, as well as certain loan terms.

For most homes, a down payment will usually be five figures, though it could reach six for higher-priced homes. For example, going by the national home median sales price of $$440,600 (as of June 2026, according to data from the National Association of Realtors), here’s what different down payments might look like:

— 3% down: $13,218

— 5% down: $22,030

— 10% down: $44,060

— 20% down: 88,120

Deciding how much to put down really depends on your situation. “The good thing is that we do have a lot of programs with down payment options as low as 3% all the way up to as much as you want to put down,” says Miguel Alcacio, community home lending advisor for Chase Home Lending in Chicago.

Should You Put Down 20%?

Many borrowers think the magic number to get a home mortgage is 20% down. But according to Jeremy Schachter, branch manager at Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation in Phoenix, that’s not the case. “The misconception of 20% down as a minimum down payment is common since 20% down on a conventional loan is how you avoid mortgage insurance,” he says.

If you have the means, go for it. Making a down payment of 20% or more can put you in a more favorable loan, allow you to avoid paying mortgage insurance and reduce your monthly payments. However, you can certainly go lower to make your homeownership dreams come true a bit sooner.

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What Are the Minimum Down Payment Requirements?

If you’re in a position where you are ready to buy a home but haven’t amassed a lot of cash, you may be wondering what is the least amount you can put down. Here are the minimum requirements based on loan type.

— : 3%. “The majority of conventional loans are backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, and they are the most common choice for first-time and repeat borrowers,” says Schachter. “If you are a first-time home buyer, conventional loans require 3% down as a minimum down payment.” Repeat buyers can put down 3% to 5%.

— : 3.5%. The Federal Housing Administration loan is a government-backed loan that allows first-time homebuyers to put down just 3.5% on a 1-4 unit property. FHA loans are also available to people with lower credit scores from 500 to 579. For that group, the minimum down payment is 10%.

— : 0%. If you are a veteran or a military service member, you could qualify for a Veterans Affairs loan with no money down. “VA loans also do not have mortgage insurance included in their payment,” says Schacter, making it a very attractive option if you are eligible.

Other types of loans, such as or nonconforming loans, may have higher down payment requirements that vary by lender.

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Larger vs. Smaller Down Payment

According to the National Association of Realtors, the median down payment in 2025 was 19% for all home buyers, 10% for first-time home buyers and 23% for repeat home buyers. In other words, there is wiggle room for you to work with.

“A simple way to look at the down payment question is like a seesaw: you have the down payment on one side and the monthly mortgage payment on the other,” explains Kevin Watson, a senior home loan strategist with Churchill Mortgage in Brentwood, Tennessee. “The larger the down payment, the lower the monthly mortgage payment. And vice versa, of course.”

The Case for Larger Down Payments

Larger down payments can be beneficial in many ways. For example, it may help you qualify for lower rates and fees based on the lower loan size, says Watson. “Mortgage insurance monthly payments are also reduced with larger down payments until you get to 20% down, when you can eliminate mortgage insurance altogether,” he adds.

Other benefits of a large down payment include:

— More up-front equity in the home

— Makes you a more attractive buyer if there are other bidders

— More loan options available to you

— Less cost over the life of the loan

When a Smaller Down Payment Makes More Sense

While it might appear that putting all available funds toward your down payment is the best route, leaving yourself with limited cash can be risky. In fact, sometimes putting down too much of your available money is referred to as being “house poor.”

“A lot of first-time homebuyers are going to end up buying a fixer-upper, and might want to have some reserves to be able to make that happen,” says Alcacio. Not to mention, it’s always a good idea to have an ample cash reserve in case you face a financial emergency, such as losing your job or a health crisis.

Making a smaller down payment leaves you extra cash for:

— Covering

— An

— Home maintenance and repairs

— Other life goals and investment opportunities

Finding Your Down Payment Sweet Spot

While you aren’t required to put down 20%, you can also put down more than the minimum required. Work with your home lending advisor and perhaps loop in your financial advisor, too, to find an amount you’re comfortable with.

“We try to go over options like, what does a 5% payment look like, or a 10% payment?” says Alcacio. You can also use a to look at the numbers on your own if you’re still in the early planning stages.

Ultimately, your aim should be to put as much as possible down to reap the benefits of a higher down payment, while also leaving yourself a financial cushion you can tap if needed.

[Read: ]

FAQs

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Update 07/15/26: This story was previously published at an earlier date and has been updated with new information.

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More and more information, analytics and useful tools these days are hiding behind paywalls, but there are still plenty of great free . In fact, many platforms have both free and paid tiers, allowing users to choose to pay for a more in-depth experience if they want.

You don’t need to pay more than $30,000 per year for access to a Bloomberg Terminal to monitor global markets. In fact, you don’t even have to pay a dime for high-quality stock screeners, stock chart analysis tools, access to sell-side analyst research or even financial filings and disclosures directly from public companies.

There are plenty of lackluster free stock analysis resources out there that are free for good reason. However, the following five platforms are popular among professional traders for providing high-quality services and tools free of charge:

— FinViz.

— TradingView.

— Yahoo Finance.

— SEC EDGAR.

— Online brokerages.

FinViz

FinViz offers plenty of useful and in-depth features for free, but it is best known for its advanced stock screening capabilities.

Sometimes, an investor may have an idea about what types of stocks to buy, but actually tracking down the stocks that fit that idea can be more difficult than it seems. FinViz’s free stock screener allows users to filter stocks by dozens of different descriptive, valuation, technical and performance metrics. Stock screeners don’t necessarily provide much research depth, but they can narrow down a group of stocks and provide an excellent starting point when choosing which stocks to buy.

The platform’s help page is also an excellent resource for investors who are just beginning to or even for experts who need a refresher on what certain fundamental and technical terms mean and how they are calculated.

In addition, FinViz has helpful charts and heat maps that can help traders easily visualize market trends.

All the FinViz features mentioned above come absolutely free, but the platform also has a paid Elite Tier subscription that includes features such as interactive multi-layout charts, screening with more than 20 additional advanced filters, real-time market data and the ability to export financial data via FinViz APIs.

TradingView

For technical stock traders or even for casual investors who want to visualize a stock’s trading patterns, a stock chart is the first place to start. But not all stock charts are created equal.

TradingView is a leading financial platform that provides world-class charting as well as advanced technical analysis indicators and multi-asset screeners. In addition to its core stock charts, TradingView also has a large social network of traders that allows users to share trading ideas, backtested strategies and custom indicators and settings.

TradingView’s free tier gives users access to the company’s signature charting platform, which comes with more than 100 built-in indicators and drawing tools. These tools and features go well beyond the classical technical indicators like RSI, MACD and Bollinger Bands. In fact, TradingView even has its own programming language, Pine Script, that traders can use to code proprietary indicators and strategies that can be added to a stock chart and used for analysis.

TradingView even allows users to practice potential trading strategies with and track macroeconomic data by plotting economic indicators directly onto stock charts.

In addition to its free subscription tier, TradingView offers four premium subscription tiers with varying amounts of additional advanced features ranging in price from $12.95 to $199.95 per month.

Yahoo Finance

There are plenty of financial news and media platforms out there, but Yahoo Finance stands out from the pack as a free hub for real-time U.S. stock quotes and analysis, portfolio tracking and breaking stock market news. Yahoo Finance’s free users have access to analyst estimates, corporate financial statements, press releases and historical pricing data for stocks and other assets.

Yahoo Finance’s free users can read breaking financial news coverage from more than 100 media sources covering stock market news, economic news, housing market news and other important, market-moving areas. They also have access to several newsletters, including the daily Morning Brief and Daily Movers newsletters and the weekly Week in Tech and Mind Your Money newsletters.

The free tier includes basic equity, mutual fund, ETF, futures and other screeners. It also comes with features such as custom watchlists, earnings calendars, stock comparison tools, a currency converter, portfolio monitoring, stock charting and dozens of other benefits.

If you’re looking for even more features, Yahoo Finance also has Bronze, Silver and Gold premium subscription tiers that cost $6.95, $24.95 and $49.95 per month, respectively.

SEC EDGAR

Instead of reading second-hand accounts of stock market news, investors can access it straight from the companies themselves by using the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis and Retrieval system, or SEC EDGAR.

SEC EDGAR is the U.S. government’s official database of corporate financial filings by all publicly traded companies. The SEC legally requires public companies to file documents such as quarterly 10-Q statements, insider trading disclosures and annual 10-K filings directly on SEC EDGAR. When financial news outlets report on things like company earnings reports, management changes, asset sales and other material events and news alerts, they are often getting that information directly from new company filings on SEC EDGAR. And the best part about the platform is that it’s completely free for the public to access.

The EDGAR platform boosts transparency for public companies, but there are also downsides to using it. First, the search function is not particularly user-friendly, and there may be multiple companies or subsidiaries of companies that have very similar names, adding to the confusion. In addition, official financial documents are often full of formal accounting language and legal terminology, making them more difficult to decipher than standard press releases found on company websites.

Online Brokerages

To find one of the best free sources of stock analysis and research tools, look no further than your . Whether you have a trading account with Fidelity, Charles Schwab, E-Trade or any other popular online brokerage, it’s likely you have access to a treasure trove of stock screeners, interactive charting features and third-party analyst research reports.

For example, provides free access to research reports from Zacks Investment Research, Reuters and Argus, as well as its own Equity Summary Score, a consolidated, accuracy-weighted indication of analyst sentiment for each stock.

provides users with its own proprietary Schwab Equity Rating system, grading more than 3,000 stocks on an A to F scale based on their outlooks. Schwab’s thinkorswim platform also includes advanced charting, stock pattern scanning, real-time data visualization and other features.

These particular online brokerages are well known for their free features, but most others also offer at least basic analyst research, real-time charts, stock screeners and newsfeeds.

If you happen to have a bare-bones brokerage account on a platform that does not offer many analysis and research tools, you can always sign up for free accounts at other brokerages to get a preview of the types of features they offer before you begin trading.

[Read: ]

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originally appeared on

Update 07/15/26: This story was previously published at an earlier date and has been updated with new information.

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“With each passing week, sometimes daily, we are hearing hints of a higher COLA coming in 2027,” says Martha Shedden, co-founder and president of the National Association of Registered Social Security Analysts. “It is not surprising, given the increase in energy costs and everyday expenses we’re experiencing.”

The COLA is an annual cost-of-living adjustment to Social Security benefits and is based on the consumer price index. The CPI is a common measure of inflation and calculated monthly by the BLS.

The , which regularly releases estimates, predicts the 2027 COLA will be 3.8% based on the most recent economic data. The organization uses the consumer price index, Federal Reserve interest rate and unemployment rate when making its projections.

[Read: ]

Inflation Predictions for 2026

The Social Security COLA is based on the consumer price index for urban wage earners and clerical workers. Known as the CPI-W, this index is based on the price of a basket of goods and services commonly purchased by consumers. The COLA is based on the average annual CPI-W from the third quarter of the previous year.

The CPI-W can vary from the CPI for all goods. However, in June 2026 the CPI for all goods and the CPI-W were the same at 3.5%. In May, the numbers were 4.2% and 4.4%, respectively.

In 2025, the average annual CPI-W for the third quarter was 2.8%. That translated into a 2.8% increase in Social Security benefits beginning in January 2026. At the start of the year, many experts expected inflation to decline in 2026, meaning next year’s COLA would be lower. Now, some are revising their estimates upwards to account for the impact of the war with Iran. Most notably, energy prices in June 2026 were up 15.7% compared to 12 months earlier.

Here are what some economists have predicted for inflation this year and when their predictions were made:

— 2.7% to 4.1%, according to the (June 2026)

— 2.5% to 6.0%, according to a survey of professional forecasters by the (May 2026)

— 3.6%, according to (April 2026)

Some of these estimates are based on the price index for personal consumer expenditures, which can vary slightly from the CPI.

“The BLS indicates that key drivers are due to geopolitical conflict with energy gains…and the price of gasoline up,” Shedden says. “The repercussions of higher transportation costs, due to these increases, have a domino effect on the costs of goods and services in many sectors.”

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Factors That Could Affect the 2027 Social Security COLA

The actual Social Security COLA for 2027 could be influenced by factors such as the conflict in Iran, tariffs, tax cuts and the labor market.

For instance, the was arguably the most impactful legislation passed in 2025. “We think it’s going to be inflationary long-term because of the tax cuts,” says Corey Briggs, director of wealth planning at the Plaza Advisory Group with Steward Partners in St. Louis.

The bill included an additional senior deduction, which Briggs describes as “huge tax savings,” as well as expanded the state and local tax deduction and extended the qualified business income deduction. These, along with declining interest rates, could spur spending, which in turn drives inflation.

Meanwhile, the role of could also have an effect, Briggs says. If AI is able to replace workers, that could mean higher unemployment and less money flowing into the economy, which may slow inflation.

“There are obviously so many unknowns,” Shedden says. She thinks tariffs, trade and the labor market could all play a role in this year’s inflation rate and the 2027 Social Security COLA.

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Changing the CPI Could Change the COLA

Changing the CPI used to calculate the Social Security COLA could also affect how much more retirees receive in benefits in 2027.

There are multiple versions of the CPI, and some argue that the CPI-W doesn’t adequately reflect the spending habits of those receiving Social Security.

“Older Americans aren’t buying many products,” Shedden says. “They are spending a disproportionate amount of their money on health care and prescriptions.”

However, medical care services are only a small part of the CPI-W. Instead, some argue that the CPI-E, which was designed to track the expenses of the elderly, would be a more appropriate measure for the Social Security COLA.

A change to the CPI-E could increase the annual Social Security COLA by 0.2 percentage points on average, according to Briggs. For instance, if the CPI-E were used, the 2026 COLA might have been 3% rather than 2.8%.

The Social Security Expansion Act was introduced in 2025 to make that change, among other amendments to the Social Security program. More recently, the Social Security 2100 Act was introduced to adjust the minimum Social Security benefit to 125% of the federal poverty limit. That bill is the “gold standard of Social Security reform,” according to Shannon Benton, executive director of The Senior Citizens League.

“The reality is that poverty is increasing rapidly among American seniors, who make up the fastest-growing portion of the homeless population,” Benton said in a press release. “Adjusting the minimum benefit to above the federal poverty line would almost certainly slow this trend, although more holistic efforts may be required to stop it entirely.”

Not everyone thinks bills that would increase benefits will see action by Congress, though. “I don’t think that has traction because we’re already losing money,” says Steve Parrish, professor of practice and a scholar in residence at the Cary M. Maguire Center for Ethics in Financial Services at The American College of Financial Services.

With the in less than a decade, Parrish doesn’t think Congress will change the CPI in a way that will increase the annual COLA. Moving to a chained CPI is more likely, he says, noting that it was the version of the CPI used for calculations in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017.

The chained CPI accounts for substitutions that consumers might make — such as buying chicken when beef is expensive, Briggs explains — and is typically lower than the CPI-W. Using a chained CPI would likely result in a slightly lower COLA, but seniors may not have to worry about that change next year. There has been talk about moving to a chained CPI for years, and no action has been taken yet.

Medicare Increases Could Offset COLA

Regardless of the exact amount of the 2027 Social Security COLA, there is a good chance that much of it will go to pay for increases in Medicare costs.

“You’re really getting hit two ways with medical,” Parrish says. The CPI-W doesn’t accurately reflect senior health care costs, and seniors also have to contend with Medicare premiums that are increasing at a pace that far exceeds the COLA.

For 2026, monthly premiums went up 9.7% at a time when the COLA only increased Social Security benefits by 2.8%. Whatever the Social Security COLA in 2027 ends up being, seniors should be prepared for a large portion of it to be absorbed by rising health care costs.

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originally appeared on

Update 07/14/26: This story was published at an earlier date and has been updated with new information.

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What Is Experian Boost and How Does It Work?

Experian Boost is a free tool consumers can use to boost their credit score. After creating an account with Experian, consumers can see the option to sign up for Experian Boost. The feature adds up to two years of on-time payment history to your Experian credit file that would otherwise go unappreciated.

Eligible payments include:

— Phone bills (mobile and landline)

— Utility bills (gas, water, electricity and solar)

— Insurance (excluding health insurance)

— Residential rent (if paid online)

— Internet, cable and satellite providers

— Streaming services

[Read: ]

These types of payments aren’t normally considered when calculating your FICO score. But by adding them to your Experian credit file, the number of on-time payments increases — which accounts for .

This is how consumers are able to see an updated score in as little as a few minutes. Myself included.

It’s worth noting, however, that if you see a score increase after using Experian Boost, you will only see it in your Experian score. If a lender pulls your Equifax or TransUnion score, the changes won’t be reflected there.

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Who Benefits From Experian Boost the Most?

According to Experian, consumers with little to no credit and those with very poor to fair credit scores will see the biggest benefit from the tool. Also, more specifically, Experian Boost can help improve your FICO Score 3, 8, 9 and 10, as well as your VantageScore 3 and 4.

Why I Decided to Try Experian Boost

I tried Experian Boost in 2019 when the program first launched. At the time, a tool like Experian Boost seemed too good to be true, so I was skeptical. But I figured it couldn’t harm my credit score and decided to take a leap of faith.

I did everything from my phone, inputting information like the checking account I use to pay my bills. After that, Experian Boost asked me to confirm it had all the right information — and then I waited. Ten minutes later, I saw the effects happen right before my eyes.

[Read: ]

My Results

My Experian score went up 44 points in real time.

I was able to see my new score in the Experian app right away. I also saw what bills the tool pulled: 13 utility payments and 21 internet payments were collected.

Also, Experian Boost only pulls positive payment history, so there’s no need to worry the tool might pick up derogatory data.

My Review of Experian Boost

If you’re working on your credit, Experian Boost is definitely a tool to consider. It’s a great way to give you a little leg up and could mean the difference between a and an unsecured credit card, for example.

Now, there’s no guarantee your score will go up. I was lucky that my score went up so much, but that’s because it was so low at the time. I was just starting to rebuild my credit, and Boost was able to turn my lowest score into the highest.

If Boost improves your Experian score, capitalize on the momentum and continue working on your overall credit score. Using and applying for the right credit card can help turn a win into a winning streak.

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Update 07/14/26: This story was published at an earlier date and has been updated with new information.

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— The Platinum Card® from American Express Exclusively for Charles Schwab

— The Platinum Card® from American Express Exclusively for Morgan Stanley

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[SEE: ]

Common Benefits of American Express Platinum Cards

Platinum cards have similar benefits and earning power for customers, which provides a common experience for cardholders and a unique advantage over competing cards from other issuers. All six Platinum cards have the following features in common:

— No foreign transaction fees

— Global Entry or TSA PreCheck reimbursement

— Cellphone protection

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A Look at Each American Express Platinum Card

American Express Platinum Card®

You’ll pay an annual fee of $895. You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $12,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.

Rewards

— Earn five points per dollar on flights booked directly or through American Express Travel (up to $500,000 per year) or hotels booked through American Express Travel.

— Earn one point per dollar on all other eligible purchases.

Top Perks

— Complimentary access to the Global Lounge Collection

— CLEAR+ credit

— Airline, hotel and ride-hail credits totaling $1,000

— Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors?Gold Status

— Annual spending credits with Walmart+, Equinox, Uber and more

— Premium car rental privileges

— Travel and purchase protections and luxury hotel benefits

_{Note: Enrollment is required for select benefits.}

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express features one of the largest welcome bonuses of any Platinum card.

Pay an annual fee of $895. You may earn as high as 300,000 points after you spend $20,000 within the first three months.

Rewards

— Earn five points per dollar on flights or hotels booked directly through American Express Travel.

— Earn two points per dollar on purchases of $5,000 or more, and on eligible purchases with U.S. construction material and hardware suppliers, shipping providers, electronic goods retailers, and software and cloud system providers. This is capped at $2 million per year.

Unique Feature

— It offers over $1,000 in annual credits to merchants like Dell, Indeed, Adobe and wireless telephone providers.

Top Perks

— 35% points back after you pay with points for flights booked through Amex Travel with your selected qualifying airline, on up to 1 million points per year

— Complimentary access to the Global Lounge Collection

— CLEAR+ credit

— Hotel and airline fee credits of up to $1,000

— Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors?Gold Status

— Premium car rental privileges

— Travel and purchase protections and luxury hotel benefits

_{Note: Enrollment is required for select benefits.}

The Platinum Card from American Express Exclusively for Charles Schwab

Schwab is a popular investing platform, and the company partnered with American Express to customize a Platinum card with exclusive benefits for its clients. Rewards can be redeemed for deposits into an eligible brokerage account.

You’ll pay an $895 annual fee. You may earn as high as 150,000 points after you spend $12,000 within the first six months. Rewards

— Earn five points per dollar on flights booked directly or through American Express Travel (up to $500,000 per year) or hotels booked through American Express Travel.

— Earn one point per dollar on all other eligible purchases.

Unique Features

— Earn an annual appreciation bonus up to $1,000, depending on the size of your Schwab holdings.

— Schwab customers can redeem Membership Rewards for deposits into an eligible Schwab brokerage account.

Top Perks

— Complimentary access to the Global Lounge Collection

— CLEAR+ credit

— Airline, hotel, ride-hail, dining and digital entertainment credits totaling over $1,000

— Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors?Gold Status

— Annual spending credits with Walmart+, Uber and Lululemon

— Premium car rental privileges

— Travel and purchase protections and luxury hotel benefits

_{Note: Enrollment is required for select benefits.}

The Platinum Card From American Express Exclusively for Morgan Stanley

Morgan Stanley is another investment firm that offers a version of the Platinum card for its clients, and several unique features make its card one of the best available if you can qualify. Cardholders can redeem rewards for deposits into their Morgan Stanley brokerage account.

You’ll pay an $895 annual fee. You may earn as high as 150,000 points after you spend $12,000 within the first six months. Rewards

— Earn five points per dollar on flights booked directly or through American Express Travel (up to $500,000 per year) or hotels booked through American Express Travel.

— Earn one point per dollar on all other eligible purchases.

Unique Features

— Qualify for a $695 annual engagement bonus if you hold a Platinum CashPlus account with Morgan Stanley.

— Add one additional Platinum card for no annual fee.

Top Perks

— Complimentary access to the Global Lounge Collection

— CLEAR+ credit

— Airline, hotel, ride-hail, dining and digital entertainment credits totaling over $1,000

— Annual spending credits with Walmart+, Uber and Lululemon

— Premium car rental privileges

— Travel and purchase protections and luxury hotel benefits

_{Note: Enrollment is required for select benefits.}

Kyle Stewart of Scott & Thomas, a boutique luxury travel agency, recommends the Morgan Stanley Platinum for retirees receiving Social Security, a pension or other recurring retirement income. In order to receive the annual $895 credit, you must have a Platinum CashPlus account with a $25,000 balance and $5,000 in monthly deposits. However, “Social Security benefits of any amount also qualify.”

Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card

This card earns Delta SkyMiles instead of Membership Rewards points. Additionally, its benefits center around Delta Air Lines flights rather than being a general travel card.

You’ll pay a $350 annual fee. Limited Time Offer: Earn 100,000 Bonus Miles after spending $8,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 7/15/26.

Rewards

— Earn 3 miles per dollar on Delta and hotel purchases.

— Earn 2 miles per dollar at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets.

— Earn 1 mile per dollar on other eligible purchases.

Unique Features

— Receive $2,500 Medallion Qualification Dollars each year and earn $1 MQD toward elite status for every $20 spent.

— Receive a Companion Certificate each year after card renewal.

— Enjoy up to $150 in DeltaStays credit.

— Earn a 15% discount on Delta flights when you use miles to book travel.

— Pay nothing for your first checked bag worldwide and second checked bags (on domestic flights).

— Receive 20% back on in-flight Delta purchases.

Top Perks

— Up to $120 in Resy statement credits each year

— Up to $120 in ride-hailing statement credits each year

— Premium car rental privileges

_{Note: Enrollment is required for select benefits.}

[Read: ]

Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card

Like its consumer card, the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card earns miles instead of points — and rewards business expenses.

You’ll pay an annual fee of $350. Earn 100,000 Bonus Miles after spending $8,000 in purchases in your first six months with the card.

Rewards

— Earn 3 miles per dollar on Delta and hotel purchases.

— Earn 1.5 miles per dollar on transit, with U.S. shipping providers and on single eligible purchases of $5,000 or more. This is capped at $100,000 of combined eligible purchases per year.

— Earn 1 mile per dollar on other eligible purchases.

Unique Features

— Receive $2,500 MQD each year and earn $1 MQD toward elite status for every $20 spent.

— Receive a Companion Certificate each year after card renewal.

— Enjoy up to $200 in DeltaStays credit.

— Earn a 15% discount on Delta flights when you use miles to book travel.

— Pay nothing for your first checked bag worldwide or second checked bag on domestic flights.

— Receive 20% back on in-flight Delta purchases.

Top Perks

— Up to $120 in Resy statement credits each year

— Up to $120 in ride-hailing statement credits each year

— Premium car rental privileges

_{Note: Enrollment is required for select benefits.}

More from U.S. News

originally appeared on

Update 07/14/26: This story was previously published at an earlier date and has been updated with new information.

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At some point you may need to move your loved one from one or to another. A transfer or move can occur for a variety of reasons, sometimes people move a loved one from one senior care facility to another. It could be closing or . You may find that it’s too expensive. You may feel the quality of care is lacking. Your loved one’s health may be worsening, and you may want a facility that can better handle their health condition. Or you may simply want them closer to you.

If you end up relocating a parent to senior living, you’ll quickly be wondering: How are we going to move to a facility with the same level of care, if not better?

That can be a challenge, especially if you have to make the transfer in a hurry. But here are some rules of the road that you’ll want to consider.

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A 30-Day Timeline: Leading Up to Moving Day

There’s no blueprint that anyone has to follow as they move a relative from one nursing home to another, but there is a lot to do. Here’s a guide to give you a sense of how things will build up over the weeks before the move happens to make moving day go more smoothly.

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Knowing Your Rights: Senior Care Facility Eviction & Discharge Rules

There are six legal reasons that a nursing home can evict or discharge a resident, which came about after the Nursing Home Reform Act of 1987 was passed:

— The needs of a nursing home resident are greater than what the facility can provide.

— The nursing home resident isn’t paying for nursing home care and hasn’t applied for Medicare or Medicaid.

— The resident is healthy and no longer needs a nursing home.

— The resident is jeopardizing the health of other residents.

— The resident’s presence is jeopardizing the safety of other residents.

— The nursing home facility is closing.

In some situations, you may be requesting the move, but if you didn’t ask for the move and you feel your loved one is being unfairly evicted, you’ll want to know your rights and know what senior care facilities can legally do — and what they can’t.

“Nursing homes can only involuntarily discharge someone for a few legally defined reasons and usually have to provide 30 days written notice and a safe discharge plan,” says , a certified senior advisor and certified aging in place specialist in Silicon Valley. He also runs Team Sixty Plus, a professional network and resource platform for adults over 60.

“You can appeal, and you should call your local long-term care ombudsman the day that notice comes. The ombudsman program is free and is one of the most underused resources in senior care,” Frey says.

Most states have a Department of Aging, and that’s generally where you’ll find the ombudsman program. Also, .

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How an Elder Law Attorney Can Help Prevent Eviction

If you believe you have a case and shouldn’t be evicted, an can advise you. You can find a lawyer at the . Check out their “resources” page.

There are so many ways an elder law attorney can help a nursing home resident. For starters, if you have a parent facing an eviction, they can file an appeal to halt the process and buy you some time. But even beyond that a good elder law attorney can help with a variety of services including:

— Asset protection, so your parent doesn’t lose all of their savings to healthcare costs

— Applying to Medicaid

— Fighting an unjust Medicaid rejection

— Renegotiating a bad or unjust contract with a nursing home

— Connecting you with free government advocates, who can help you navigate senior care

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Senior Care Facility Transfer Checklist: Organizing the Paperwork

Organizing and requesting necessary paperwork for the new nursing home or assisted living facility could potentially save you time and money: time, since later, you won’t have to hunt for paperwork; money, since, well, you never know what hidden fees you might uncover.

One common hidden fee is the bed hold fee.

These are fees a nursing home will sometimes charge your loved one for leaving the facility temporarily, such as if your parent is in the hospital. If you haven’t signed a bed-hold agreement, your loved one could return, only to find their bed was given away to somebody else.

If you’re trying out a new facility, you might want to sign a bed-hold agreement, so your relative has somewhere to return if it doesn’t work out. That’s a fine strategy — nothing wrong with that, but Frey cautions to be careful with signing the agreement and especially to not forget about it.

“Those bed-hold charges are adding up at the daily rate, so decide up front if that safety net is worth the cost,” Frey says. “Make sure any prepayments will be refunded, ask for a final detailed statement and don’t treat the account as closed until you have checked it once your loved one has left the facility.”

[READ: ]

Recommended paperwork when relocating from one senior living community to another

Mid-month transfer strategies: tips to avoid paying double rent

Similar to moving from one apartment to another, where you could have rent overlapping with each other, and security deposits to pay or get back, you’ve got a lot of money transferring when you move from one senior care facility to another.

Social workers and case managers can point out if they see you about to make a decision that is going to waste money. You want to avoid paying two nursing homes at the same time, and that can happen, especially in the middle of the month, since housing is typically paid for monthly. You don’t want to experience overlapping nursing home costs.

If you’re working with experts, they can suggest mid-month transfer strategies and tips to avoid paying double rent, such as requesting prorated billing from each facility when the move is occurring.

[READ: ]

Expect Stress — and Try to Plan For It

Moving a relative from one senior care facility to another can be anxiety-inducing for everyone. But if you know that from the outset, you might be able to make decisions that . For starters, don’t be a hero. No need to feel like you have to do this all by yourself.

“Moving a loved one with mobility challenges can be complicated, but families are not expected to navigate the process alone,” says , owner of CareBuilders at Home North Central Texas, an in-home care company for seniors. “Social workers, case managers and care teams often help identify what level of care the person needs and what resources will make the transition smoother.”

And you really are being smart to lean on professionals for help. They know what money traps to look for.

And when you’re looking for a new facility, Kemp suggests trying to find one that offers multiple levels of care, which may help prevent future moves as your loved one’s needs change.

“It’s also important to consider location carefully,” she says. “Keeping a senior close to family members and loved ones can help prevent isolation and depression.”

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Comparison Shop

You may not have much time, but ideally, “the same research process used to choose the first facility should happen again,” says Kemp.

You can start with U.S. News’ . It’s an exhaustive look at the quality of nursing homes and other senior living centers. U.S. News analyzed data from more than 540,000 resident and family survey responses at more than 3,200 senior living communities nationwide. The survey asked residents and family members about their satisfaction with community safety, caregiving, activities, management, staff, food, value and other aspects of community life.

You can or , and see what senior living communities are near you, and can see what amenities they have and what they’re recognized for. Or if you have a specific senior living facility in mind that you want to learn more about, type the name in, and you’ll quickly get a full picture of the place you’re interested in.

Another great resource, Kemp says, “is Medicare’s facility comparison tools at , which provide star ratings and other information for licensed facilities. These ratings are based on factors such as inspections, quality measures and feedback from people who have used the services.”

She also recommends looking into working with senior placement services or senior relocation services.

“Many of these organizations provide guidance at no cost to families because they are compensated by the communities they partner with. Caregiving agencies can also be valuable resources when navigating the process,” she says.

Once the Move is Done, Don’t Exhale Yet

You know the drill. You’ve done this before. You’ll want to make sure your loved one is really receiving the care they deserve.

Frey suggests showing up unannounced at least twice, to the facility. “Go once during a mealtime and once on a weekend or evening when staffing is often at its lightest,” he says. “Federal law gives nursing home residents open visitation rights, so no one can turn you away for showing up without an appointment. Watch how staff address the residents, ask about caregiver turnover, and if you’re an outgoing person, talk to family members you see in the hallway. They’ll tell you things no admissions director ever will.”

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Membership eligibility is different for each credit union and is often restricted to those living in a certain area or working for select employers.

However, there are many credit unions throughout the country that provide alternative ways to become a member, opening their eligibility to anyone. If you’re interested in joining a credit union, here is a list of institutions you may be able to join.

[See: ]

What Is a Credit Union?

A is a nonprofit financial institution that operates as a member-based cooperative. Opening an account with a credit union gives you a small ownership share, meaning any profits that a credit union earns are returned to you and other members.

Credit unions usually offer slightly better interest rates on their products than banks, although they may not have as many products to offer their members. Similar to banks, credit unions are federally insured by the , or NCUA, for deposits up to $250,000.

Many credit unions are based in the community through which they were founded and tend to service a regional membership base. The local connection can help them build relationships with their members. Credit unions may not have as many branch locations as banks, opting to provide more online banking and ATM access.

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8 Credit Unions Anyone Can Join

1. Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union

Easiest way to join:

You can earn membership eligibility by making a one-time dues payment of $25 to the Affinity Plus Foundation. If you live, work, worship or study in Minnesota, you are also eligible to become a member.

Why you should: Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union offers good rates on and . Members are also automatically enrolled in a rewards program where they can earn points based on account activity.

2. Alliant Credit Union

Easiest way to join: Eligibility can be granted through a $5 contribution to the Alliant Credit Union Foundation. The credit union will donate the $5 on your behalf.

Why you should: has competitive interest rates on its and CDs. Members can also enroll in free overdraft protection and utilize the credit union’s 24/7 customer support.

3. FourLeaf Federal Credit Union

Easiest way to join: If you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident with $5 to put toward a , you are eligible to join FourLeaf (formerly known as Bethpage).

Why you should: FourLeaft Federal Credit Union offers competitive rates and a low minimum deposit of $50 on CDs. Students are eligible for high on savings accounts.

4. Boeing Employees Credit Union

Easiest way to join: You can become a member by opening a savings account.

Why you should: BECU offers free Member Advantage checking and savings accounts with high APY on the first $500. The credit union also offers a with no annual fee and 1.5% back on all purchases.

5. Digital Credit Union

Easiest way to join: Digital Credit Union offers membership eligibility through several affiliate associations. Of those, Reach Out for Schools has the lowest membership fee of $10.

Why you should: DCU offers competitive rates on savings accounts with balances up to $1,000. Members also have access to over 80,000 ATMs through the CO-OP, Allpoint, and SUM networks. DCU and First Technology Federal Credit Union (also a credit union anyone could join) recently merged.

6. Lake Michigan Credit Union

Easiest way to join: Donating a minimum of $5 to the ALS West Michigan Chapter will grant you eligibility to become a member.

Why you should: Lake Michigan Credit Union offers good rates on checking, certificate and money market accounts. Members can access over 55,000 ATMs as part of the Allpoint network.

7. Pentagon Federal Credit Union

Easiest way to join: Similar to FourLeaf, membership can be earned by applying for a Regular Savings account with a minimum deposit of $5.

Why you should: offers low- or no-cost checking and savings accounts, as well as high APYs on CDs.

8. Wings Credit Union

Easiest way to join: You can become a member of the credit union by making a $5 donation to the Wings Financial Foundation.

Why you should: Wings Financial Credit Union offers good rates on checking accounts and CDs. Members do not pay any monthly service fees.

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How to Choose a Credit Union

There is a wide variety of credit unions throughout the country serving . Keep these tips in mind as you search for a credit union to join.

— Rates and fees. Credit unions tend to offer lower fees and better interest rates on their products than banks, but that is not always the case. Review the credit union’s rates page before making the decision to join.

— Products and services. While credit unions may not have the wide variety of products that banks have, they may offer more specialized products to members.

— Eligibility. Not all credit unions are open to everyone, but you may be eligible. Check your local credit unions to see if you could join based on where you live or work.

— Access. Credit unions are often smaller than banks. To make up for this, they emphasize service. See if the credit unions you’re interested in offer robust online banking services and extended access to customer service.

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Trying to decide where to cash a check? Read this guide on how to cash a check, including information about the fees you might end up paying.

Cashing a Check at Your Own Bank

Here’s what to consider when cashing a check at your own bank:

Your bank or typically lets you cash a check at a branch, at an ATM or through a mobile app. But if you’re depositing a check at an ATM or through a mobile app, you might not get the entire amount of the check right away, depending on your financial institution’s policies and the amount of the check. The first $225 typically is available immediately or in one business day, with the rest of the money being released on the second business day.

Your bank or credit union normally won’t charge a fee if you’re cashing a personal, payroll, government, insurance or business check. If you’re cashing a check in person, bring at least one piece of identity verification, such as a driver’s license or passport.

Cashing a Check at a Different Bank

Here’s what to consider when cashing a check at a different bank:

If you don’t cash a check at your own bank or credit union, you should cash it at the bank or credit union that issued the check. The name of the issuer appears on the front of the check. Generally, you can do this without paying a fee.

You also can try to cash a check at a financial institution that’s not yours and not the one that issued the check. You might be charged a check-cashing fee of about $5 to $10. Keep in mind that a bank or credit union isn’t required to cash your check. Therefore, the financial institution might turn down your check-cashing request. Just as you would at your own bank or credit union, bring at least one form of photo ID with you.

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Electronically ‘Cashing’ a Check

Here’s what to consider when “cashing” a check electronically:

Many banks and credit unions offer mobile apps that let you . This isn’t the same as the traditional way of cashing a check, but it’s close. To deposit a check with an app, you typically must snap a photo of the front and back of the check and then follow the financial institution’s directions for completing the mobile deposit. A mobile deposit normally clears in one business day, although it can take longer to access your money. Financial institutions generally don’t charge fees to use their apps for check deposits.

Stores like offer another way to electronically “cash” a check. Walmart’s free MoneyCard app enables you to deposit a check at no cost and get your funds within five business days. Payment apps like and also allow mobile check deposits.

PayPal, for example, charges no fee to cash your check. But you must wait 10 days to access your money. If you want to speed up the process at PayPal, you can pay a 1% fee to deposit a payroll or government check or a 5% fee for other approved checks. The minimum fee for each transaction type is $5.

Cashing a Check at a Retail Store

Here’s what to consider when cashing a check at a retail store:

If you’re seeking a quick, convenient way to cash a check, try a retail store or a supermarket. Just keep in mind that you’ll probably pay a fee for this convenience. The Kroger grocery chain, for example, lets you cash payroll, government, business and child support checks, among others. Kroger generally won’t cash a check exceeding $5,000. If you hold a Kroger Shopper’s Card and have a check that’s up to $2,000, you’ll typically pay a $3 fee. Cashing a check up to $5,000 usually costs $5.50 if you have a Shopper’s Card.

Retail stores might not cash certain checks, such as personal checks. If you are heading to a store to cash a check, don’t forget a form of ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.

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Loading a Check Onto a Prepaid Card

Here’s what to consider when loading a check onto a prepaid card:

Some issuers of prepaid cards let you load the card with a check. For example, Green Dot lets you cash a check at Walmart and have that money loaded onto your prepaid card. You’ll be charged a reload fee of $3.74 and may be hit with a check-cashing fee as high as $4.

Loading a check onto a prepaid card might be limited to preprinted checks like payroll checks and benefits checks. The amount of money you’re able to add to a prepaid card may also be restricted. For instance, Green Dot caps check-to-card transactions at $5,000.

Be sure you’ve got a form of ID with you when you’re loading a check onto a prepaid card.

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Cashing a Check at a Check-Cashing Store

Here’s what to consider when cashing a check at a check-cashing store:

If you don’t have an account at a bank or credit union, one option for cashing a check is a check-cashing store. However, fees charged by these stores — perhaps up to 2% — eat into the amount of cash you’ll actually leave with.

Aside from potentially high fees, check-cashing stores come with another risk. Some of these stores might try to rope you into taking out a high-interest payday loan. The annual percentage rate for these loans can be 400% or more. As with other options, if you are sure about visiting a check-cashing store, remember to bring a form of ID with you.

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originally appeared on

Update 07/14/26: This story was previously published at an earlier date and has been updated with new information.

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