Saving for a down payment still a barrier for people looking to buy a home, Realtor.com says

An analysis by Realtor.com is forecasting homeownership in 2026 to be more affordable as mortgage rates decline.  But saving for a down payment is still a barrier for many people looking to buy a home.

These states are increasing the minimum wage in 2026

Significant wage hikes kick in Jan. 1 for millions of workers across these states. See if your area made the list.

Your 2026 tax guide: All the changes to know before filing

New tax deductions have been enacted for many working Americans and seniors. Here’s what you need to know about the new laws that could impact your return.

New year, new laws in Washington
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Big changes are coming to Washington state in 2026, many of which could impact you and your wallet.

Oak Harbor, WA cancels 2025 New Year's Eve fireworks show

Oak Harbor’s annual New Year’s Eve fireworks show has been canceled, according to a Dec. 29 post from the city’s Chamber of Commerce.

SNAP junk-food purchase restrictions take effect Jan. 1 in five states, others to follow in 2026 — see where

The new year brings new restrictions on food purchases by SNAP recipients. On Jan. 1, five states are banning SNAP recipients from using their taxpayer-funded food assistance benefit to purchase junk food.

WA's minimum wage is going up in 2026. Here's how much

Washington’s minimum wage — the highest statewide rate in the nation — is going up again in 2026. Here’s what it means for workers and employers.

Here's why plastic bag fees go up in WA in 2026

A slew of new laws are going into effect on January 1 in Washington. One of them is a plastic bag fee increase, but is it working?

IRS reveals updated retirement contribution limits for 2026

The IRS unveiled contribution limit changes for popular retirement plans, including 401(k) plans and IRAs.

American Airlines ends advantage miles program for basic economy fares

American Airlines has made a change that affects how millions of travelers earn rewards on its cheapest tickets — and now the airline is facing some backlash for it.

Ford shatters decade-old recall record with 152 safety alerts issued this year alone across multiple models

Ford Motor Company logged far more recalls in 2025 than any other automaker, according to federal safety data, eclipsing a decade-old industry record and underscoring ongoing quality issues affecting millions of vehicles across multiple model lines.

Gov. Ferguson backs millionaire income tax
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Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson says he supports a proposed 9.9% income tax on earnings over $1 million and is prepared to sign it into law next year.

WA Gov. Ferguson backs income tax on WA residents earning over $1M

The so-called “millionaires tax" could raise $3 billion annually, starting in 2029. It would likely face legal challenges and need to go to voters for approval.

Student loan borrowers in default face wage garnishment starting Jan. 7

The Department of Education will begin garnishing wages from borrowers who have defaulted on federal student loans starting in early January.