I suggested that for years, but people don't want to know; perhaps doing so would make them feel guilty. I view people as "spenders" or "savers" which I've seen play out. I am a saver, always have been; I think it is in my DNA. I still keep a full set of books on our finances, just to track them, and for when I need to look up something. Our Social Security covers our living expenses, so I don't really budget our spending. We spend when we need to, but are still frugal/tight with our money. Maybe it's my Dutch grandfather and my wife's Scottish ancestors whose genes we inherited!
It’s called an “IP PIN,” originally established for victims of identity theft. Eventually, all taxpayers were allowed to obtain one. I’ve used one since anyone could get one. Another layer of security to add. I’d advise everyone to get one.
I almost always login to get my EOBs. Yesterday I received a paper copy from my supplemental (even though I am to receive digital) for PT. I will login to MC to download the EOB because I didn’t receive email notification of it. I’m happy because my share is $0.00. It’s the accountant in me😁
To your flat tax comment, I always ask “what percentage rate would you use and, to what income would would you apply that rate?” We have TI and more than one AGI/MAGI. There is a snowball’s chance of politicians resolving those questions. The first page of the IRC states “Thou Shall pay taxes,” every page thereafter provide exceptions. Committee Reports provide interesting reading.
Mark, your post is simply stating the facts of your investment strategy and process, and there is nothing wrong with that. I’m very similar, other than I’m slowly moving from Index funds to ETFs (in our taxable account) to avoid the year end CG distributions, which have caught me off guard a few times!
I work for food. I delivered yard tools to my son (200 miles RT) and he smoked ribs and a brined pork loin. I installed a new ceiling fixture for my daughter, and her husband grilled burgers, plus a beer!
In my mind, people are either spenders or savers, with few in the middle; 40 years as a CPA bore that out. I have always been a saver, as I suspect most Humble Dollar readers are. One of the partners at a firm I worked at once told me "some people weren't meant to have money."
Comments
I enjoy how your mind works! We need more humor in this world!!
Post: Yes, I am a NIIT wit
Link to comment from February 11, 2026
I suggested that for years, but people don't want to know; perhaps doing so would make them feel guilty. I view people as "spenders" or "savers" which I've seen play out. I am a saver, always have been; I think it is in my DNA. I still keep a full set of books on our finances, just to track them, and for when I need to look up something. Our Social Security covers our living expenses, so I don't really budget our spending. We spend when we need to, but are still frugal/tight with our money. Maybe it's my Dutch grandfather and my wife's Scottish ancestors whose genes we inherited!
Post: The Monthly Mystery of the Vanishing Paycheck
Link to comment from February 11, 2026
It’s called an “IP PIN,” originally established for victims of identity theft. Eventually, all taxpayers were allowed to obtain one. I’ve used one since anyone could get one. Another layer of security to add. I’d advise everyone to get one.
Post: 2025 Tax Return Time – Overview of Changes
Link to comment from February 10, 2026
I almost always login to get my EOBs. Yesterday I received a paper copy from my supplemental (even though I am to receive digital) for PT. I will login to MC to download the EOB because I didn’t receive email notification of it. I’m happy because my share is $0.00. It’s the accountant in me😁
Post: Less Paper, More Fraud
Link to comment from February 3, 2026
To your flat tax comment, I always ask “what percentage rate would you use and, to what income would would you apply that rate?” We have TI and more than one AGI/MAGI. There is a snowball’s chance of politicians resolving those questions. The first page of the IRC states “Thou Shall pay taxes,” every page thereafter provide exceptions. Committee Reports provide interesting reading.
Post: Your effective tax rate
Link to comment from February 1, 2026
Mark, your post is simply stating the facts of your investment strategy and process, and there is nothing wrong with that. I’m very similar, other than I’m slowly moving from Index funds to ETFs (in our taxable account) to avoid the year end CG distributions, which have caught me off guard a few times!
Post: Owning My Sin Premium
Link to comment from January 16, 2026
I work for food. I delivered yard tools to my son (200 miles RT) and he smoked ribs and a brined pork loin. I installed a new ceiling fixture for my daughter, and her husband grilled burgers, plus a beer!
Post: Fantasy Retirement Billable Hours
Link to comment from November 25, 2025
Dan, your article reminds me of “Car Talk” on PBS radio. Often, they talked about anything other than cars.
Post: Not Just About the Money
Link to comment from November 21, 2025
God gave us a brain; I think He expects us to use it!
Post: Seniors are a frustrating lot. Here’s why…IMO
Link to comment from October 30, 2025
In my mind, people are either spenders or savers, with few in the middle; 40 years as a CPA bore that out. I have always been a saver, as I suspect most Humble Dollar readers are. One of the partners at a firm I worked at once told me "some people weren't meant to have money."
Post: I Really Don’t Get It, But I Guess That’s OK
Link to comment from October 21, 2025