# DecisionsCalc

> Free cost calculators for life's big decisions (weddings, moving abroad, buying a home, a new baby, raising a child, retirement) for the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Ireland and Switzerland. Every figure names its source, a checked date and whether it is official or our estimate. General information, not financial, tax or immigration advice.

Each calculator exists in a country edition: the US version is at /tools/<slug>/, the others at /<country>/tools/<slug>/ (gb, ca, au, ie, ch, nz; New Zealand covers only the calculators with official NZ figures), using that country's currency, official rates and published averages. Methodology: https://decisionscalc.com/methodology/ Editorial standards: https://decisionscalc.com/editorial-standards/

## Calculators

- [Remote Work True Cost Calculator](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/remote-work-calculator/): Commute savings, home office costs, meals, clothing — your real annual net.
- [Salary Negotiation Calculator](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/salary-negotiation-calculator/): Lifetime earnings impact of negotiating vs. market salary benchmarks.
- [Debt Payoff Calculator](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/debt-payoff-calculator/): Avalanche vs. snowball with your real debts — interest saved and time to debt-free.
- [Emergency Fund Planner](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/emergency-fund-calculator/): Personalized target based on job stability, income type, and health.
- [FIRE Calculator](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/fire-calculator/): FIRE number, years to independence, retirement-benefit impact, projection.
- [Rent vs. Buy Calculator](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/rent-vs-buy-calculator/): True 5 & 10-year comparison with opportunity cost and break-even timeline.
- [Wedding Cost Calculator](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/wedding-cost-calculator/): Itemized budget by guest count, region, and style from real couple data.
- [Having a Baby True Cost Planner](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/baby-cost-planner/): State-specific year-one estimate: childcare, medical, gear, lost wages.
- [Cost of Raising a Child Calculator](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/cost-of-raising-a-child-calculator/): Birth to 18, year by year: everyday costs by age, childcare, housing and official child benefits.
- [Pet Cost Calculator](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/pet-cost-calculator/): Year-one setup, annual recurring, and lifetime total including vet bills.
- [Car True Cost of Ownership](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/car-ownership-calculator/): True 5-year cost: depreciation, insurance, fuel, maintenance, financing.
- [Home Buying True Cost Calculator](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/home-buying-cost-calculator/): Closing costs, mortgage insurance, taxes, insurance, maintenance — full year-one picture.
- [College True Cost Calculator](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/college-cost-calculator/): Tuition, room & board, loan interest, and opportunity cost — real 4-year total.
- [Chronic Illness Annual Cost Calculator](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/chronic-illness-cost/): Beyond copays — medications, lost work, lifestyle changes.
- [Aging Parent Care Financial Planner](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/aging-parent-planner/): In-home care, assisted living, memory care, and caregiver career impact.
- [Compound Interest Calculator](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/compound-interest-calculator/): Project savings growth from a starting amount, monthly contributions, rate and time — see contributions vs. interest.
- [UK Stamp Duty (SDLT) Calculator](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/uk-stamp-duty-calculator/): England & NI stamp duty at 2026/27 rates, band by band, with first-time buyer and additional-property options.
- [Scotland LBTT Calculator](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/scotland-lbtt-calculator/): Land and Buildings Transaction Tax, including the 8% Additional Dwelling Supplement charged on the whole price.
- [Wales LTT Calculator](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/wales-ltt-calculator/): Land Transaction Tax on Welsh Revenue Authority bands, including the separate higher-rate table for additional properties.
- [Australian Private Health Rebate Calculator](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/australia-private-health-rebate-calculator/): Income-tested rebate tiers against the Medicare Levy Surcharge — whether cover costs less than the surcharge.
- [Japan Trip Cost Calculator](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/japan-trip-cost-calculator/): Flights, hotels, food, the JR Pass and the 2026 departure and hotel taxes, in your own currency.
- [Budget 2027 Calculator (Ireland)](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-budget-2027-calculator/): Your take-home pay in 2027 against 2026: the new tax bands and credits, USC, rent credit and the PRSI rise.
- [Where Should My Money Go? (Ireland)](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-savings-investment-calculator/): State Savings, a deposit after DIRT, an ETF after exit tax, shares after CGT and a pension after relief: what is left for you in each.
- [Pension Tax Relief Calculator (Ireland)](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-pension-tax-relief-calculator/): Tax relief on pension contributions and AVCs: your age-related limit (15% to 40% of earnings up to €115,000), relief at 20% or 40%, what each contribution really costs and how much more you can add.
- [Landlord Tax Calculator (Ireland)](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-landlord-tax-calculator/): Tax on rental income: mortgage interest (RTB registered), wear and tear, the €1,000 landlord relief, income tax at your marginal rate, USC with the 3% surcharge and PRSI, for 2026 or 2027.
- [Inheritance Tax Calculator (Ireland, CAT)](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-inheritance-tax-calculator/): Gift and inheritance tax at 33% with the Budget 2027 thresholds from 7 October 2026 (€420,000 / €44,000 / €22,000), earlier gifts, the €3,000 small gift exemption and your deadline.
- [Rent Tax Credit Calculator (Ireland)](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-rent-tax-credit-calculator/): How much you can claim for 2022 to 2027: 20% of your rent up to €1,000 a year (€1,150 in 2027). 2022 claims close 31 December 2026.
- [Fuel Allowance Calculator (Ireland)](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-fuel-allowance-calculator/): Do you pass the means test? €534 limit for over-66s (€640.80 from January 2027), under-66 limits, savings, and €1,134 for the 2026/27 season.
- [What Can I Claim? (Ireland)](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-what-can-i-claim/): One check for your household: Child Benefit, Working Family Payment, Maternity Benefit, Carer’s Allowance, State Pension, Fuel Allowance and the Rent Tax Credit.
- [State Pension (Contributory) Calculator (Ireland)](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-state-pension-calculator/): Your weekly rate under the Total Contributions Approach: paid PRSI, credits, HomeCaring Periods and what is missing for the full pension.
- [Carer’s Allowance Calculator (Ireland)](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-carers-allowance-calculator/): The official means test: €2,000 couple disregard (€2,300 from July 2027), earnings after PRSI, savings bands and the €2.50 rate steps.
- [Working Family Payment Calculator (Ireland)](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-working-family-payment-calculator/): Do you qualify, and how much a week? Official income limits for 2026 and 2027, your pay after tax and pension, and the 60% rule.
- [Maternity Leave Pay Calculator (Ireland)](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-maternity-benefit-calculator/): Maternity, Paternity and Parent’s Benefit after tax against your normal pay: the household gap and what to save each month.
- [Ireland CGT Calculator](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-cgt-calculator/): Capital Gains Tax at the new 31% rate from 7 October 2026: gain, €1,270 exemption, losses and the date to pay.
- [Help to Buy Calculator (Ireland)](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-help-to-buy-calculator/): Your Help to Buy refund at the new €35,000 cap (Budget 2027), First Home Scheme equity by county, and the deposit you still need.
- [MyFutureFund Calculator](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-myfuturefund-calculator/): Ireland auto-enrolment: what you, your employer and the State pay at every phase (1.5% to 6%) and your pot at retirement.
- [Paid Family Leave Calculator (US states)](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/us-paid-family-leave-calculator/): Weekly paid family leave benefit, paid weeks and lost pay in the 12 states and DC with paid leave, on each state’s 2026 formula, with every state compared at your salary.
- [UK Voluntary NI from Abroad Calculator](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/uk-voluntary-ni-abroad-calculator/): Living outside the UK: which missing years you can still buy (Class 2 or Class 3), each year’s deadline, and what it adds to your UK State Pension after the April 2026 change.
- [KiwiSaver Calculator](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/kiwisaver-calculator/): New Zealand: your KiwiSaver at 65 under the 3.5% rules (4% from 2028), with employer ESCT, the government contribution, PIR tax and fees.
- [Canada EI Benefit Calculator](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/canada-ei-benefit-calculator/): Employment Insurance maternity and parental benefits, the insurable earnings ceiling, and standard versus extended.
- [Québec QPIP Calculator](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/quebec-qpip-calculator/): Québec Parental Insurance Plan (RQAP) benefits, basic or special plan, shared weeks split between parents, compared with EI.

## Country editions

- [United States](https://decisionscalc.com/)
- [United Kingdom](https://decisionscalc.com/gb/)
- [Canada](https://decisionscalc.com/ca/)
- [Australia](https://decisionscalc.com/au/)
- [Ireland](https://decisionscalc.com/ie/)
- [Switzerland](https://decisionscalc.com/ch/)
- [New Zealand](https://decisionscalc.com/nz/)

## Moving abroad: cost of moving between countries

- [Moving abroad hub](https://decisionscalc.com/moving/): visa fees, flights, shipping, deposit and first rent, setting up and a buffer, with official sources.
- [Cost of moving from the US to Ireland](https://decisionscalc.com/moving/us-to-ireland/)
- [Cost of moving from the UK to Australia](https://decisionscalc.com/moving/uk-to-australia/)
- [Cost of moving from the UK to Canada](https://decisionscalc.com/moving/uk-to-canada/)
- [Cost of moving from the US to Canada](https://decisionscalc.com/moving/us-to-canada/)
- [Cost of moving from Ireland to Australia](https://decisionscalc.com/moving/ireland-to-australia/)
- [Cost of moving from Ireland to Canada](https://decisionscalc.com/moving/ireland-to-canada/)
- [Cost of moving from the US to Australia](https://decisionscalc.com/moving/us-to-australia/)
- [Cost of moving from the US to the UK](https://decisionscalc.com/moving/us-to-uk/)
- [Cost of moving from Australia to the UK](https://decisionscalc.com/moving/australia-to-uk/)
- [Cost of moving from Canada to the UK](https://decisionscalc.com/moving/canada-to-uk/)
- [Cost of moving from Ireland to the UK](https://decisionscalc.com/moving/ireland-to-uk/)
- [Cost of moving from the UK to Ireland](https://decisionscalc.com/moving/uk-to-ireland/)

## Planners (paid spreadsheets, Excel and Google Sheets)

- [Wedding Budget Planner](https://decisionscalc.com/wedding-budget-planner/): $15 one-time; budget, payment schedule, quotes and guest list, six country editions.
- [Moving Abroad Planner](https://decisionscalc.com/moving-abroad-planner/): $29 one-time; costs, month-by-month timeline, savings target and checklist for Australia, Canada, Ireland and the UK.
- [Irish ETF Exit Tax Tracker](https://decisionscalc.com/irish-etf-tax-tracker/): $15 one-time; every holding's 8-year deemed disposal dates, exit tax due each year (38% in 2026, 35% from 2027) and the credit on sale. Free one-holding calculator on the page.
- [Parental Leave Planner](https://decisionscalc.com/parental-leave-planner/): $19 one-time; week-by-week leave pay for both parents, the household income gap and a savings target, with US (state paid family leave in 12 states and DC), UK, Australia, Ireland and Canada (EI and Quebec QPIP) editions. Free gap calculator on the page.

## For AI agents: calculators as tools (MCP)

- MCP server (Streamable HTTP, no key, read-only): https://decisionscalc.com/mcp ; server card: https://decisionscalc.com/.well-known/mcp/server-card.json ; docs: https://decisionscalc.com/for-agents/
- `ireland_what_can_i_claim` ([page](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-what-can-i-claim/)): Ireland: list the social welfare payments and tax credits a household may get (Child Benefit, New Baby Grant, Working Family Payment, Maternity Benefit, Carer’s Allowance, State Pension, Fuel Allowance, Rent Tax Credit) with estimated amounts, using official 2026/2027 rates.
- `ireland_working_family_payment` ([page](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-working-family-payment-calculator/)): Ireland: estimate the Working Family Payment (weekly, tax-free) for a family, from gross pay, number of children and hours worked, using the official income limits (2026, and +€30 from January 2027) and the 60% rule.
- `ireland_rent_tax_credit` ([page](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-rent-tax-credit-calculator/)): Ireland: how much Rent Tax Credit a renter can claim for each year 2022–2026 (20% of rent, capped per year), including back-claims. Claims for 2022 must be made by 31 December 2026 (Revenue four-year rule).
- `ireland_carers_allowance` ([page](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-carers-allowance-calculator/)): Ireland: estimate the weekly Carer’s Allowance from the official means test (income disregard €1,000/€2,000 from July 2026, €1,150/€2,300 from July 2027; savings bands; Department rate table).
- `ireland_fuel_allowance` ([page](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-fuel-allowance-calculator/)): Ireland: check the Fuel Allowance means test (66+: €534 a week single, €640.80 from January 2027; under 66 needs a qualifying payment) and the 2026/27 season amount (€38, then €43 a week; €1,134 in lump sums).
- `ireland_state_pension_contributory` ([page](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-state-pension-calculator/)): Ireland: estimate the State Pension (Contributory) weekly rate under the Department’s Total Contributions Approach (paid PRSI + up to 520 credits + HomeCaring Periods; 2,080 for the full rate).
- `ireland_budget_2027_take_home` ([page](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-budget-2027-calculator/)): Ireland: take-home pay in 2026 against 2027 after Budget 2027 (income tax bands and credits, USC, PRSI, rent credit), line by line.
- `ireland_maternity_leave_pay` ([page](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-maternity-benefit-calculator/)): Ireland: each parent’s take-home pay in the year of maternity/paternity/parent’s leave against a normal year (Maternity Benefit €299 a week in 2026, €309 from 2027; taxed but no USC or PRSI), the household gap and a monthly saving target.
- `ireland_help_to_buy` ([page](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-help-to-buy-calculator/)): Ireland: Help to Buy refund for a first-time buyer of a new build or self-build: the lesser of €35,000 (contracts from 7 October 2026; €30,000 before), 10% of the price, or income tax + DIRT paid in the previous 4 years; price limit €500,000; mortgage at least 70% of the price. Scheme runs to the end of 2029.
- `ireland_capital_gains_tax` ([page](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-cgt-calculator/)): Ireland: capital gains tax on a disposal (shares, crypto, property other than your home): 31% for disposals from 7 October 2026 (33% before), 33% on development land, €1,270 annual exemption, losses, and the payment deadline (15 December for January–November disposals). Not for Irish/EU ETFs or funds, which pay exit tax.
- `ireland_inheritance_gift_tax` ([page](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-inheritance-tax-calculator/)): Ireland: Capital Acquisitions Tax (CAT) on a gift or inheritance: group threshold by relationship (A child €420,000, B sibling/niece/nephew/grandchild/parent €44,000, C everyone else €22,000 from 7 October 2026; €400,000/€40,000/€20,000 before), 33% above the unused threshold after earlier benefits in the same group since 5 December 1991, the €3,000 small gift exemption, whether an IT38 return is needed (above 80% of the threshold) and the 31 October pay-and-file date. Spouses and civil partners are exempt; reliefs (dwelling house, agricultural, business, favourite nephew) are not applied.
- `ireland_myfuturefund_pension` ([page](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-myfuturefund-calculator/)): Ireland: MyFutureFund (pension auto-enrolment, started January 2026): what you, your employer and the State pay in (1.5/1.5/0.5% rising to 6/6/2% by year 10, on pay up to €80,000) and the projected pot at retirement.
- `ireland_where_to_put_savings` ([page](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-savings-investment-calculator/)): Ireland: compare where a lump sum ends up after tax over a number of years: State Savings (tax-free), a bank deposit (DIRT 33%), ETFs (exit tax with 8-year deemed disposal), shares (CGT 31%) and a pension (tax relief). Growth for market products is an assumption you set.
- `ireland_pension_tax_relief` ([page](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-pension-tax-relief-calculator/)): Ireland: income tax relief on personal pension contributions and AVCs (occupational scheme, PRSA, RAC, PEPP): the age-related limit (under 30 15%, 30-39 20%, 40-49 25%, 50-54 30%, 55-59 35%, 60+ 40% of earnings up to €115,000), relief at the marginal rate (2026 or Budget 2027 bands; no USC or PRSI relief), the net cost and the room left this year.
- `ireland_landlord_rental_tax` ([page](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/ireland-landlord-tax-calculator/)): Ireland: tax on residential rental income for an individual landlord: profit after mortgage interest (deductible only for RTB-registered tenancies), other expenses and 12.5% wear and tear, income tax at the marginal rate on top of salary (2026 or Budget 2027 bands), the Residential Premises Rental Income Relief (up to €1,000, 20% of profit), USC with the 3% surcharge on non-PAYE income over €100,000, and PRSI on unearned income over €5,000 for employees under 66.
- `uk_stamp_duty_england_ni` ([page](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/uk-stamp-duty-calculator/)): UK: Stamp Duty Land Tax for England and Northern Ireland at 2026/27 rates, band by band: standard, first-time buyer relief (nil to £300,000, up to £500,000) or additional property (+5% on every band), plus the 2% non-resident surcharge.
- `scotland_lbtt` ([page](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/scotland-lbtt-calculator/)): Scotland: Land and Buildings Transaction Tax at 2026/27 rates, band by band, with first-time buyer relief (nil band to £175,000) or the 8% Additional Dwelling Supplement.
- `wales_ltt` ([page](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/wales-ltt-calculator/)): Wales: Land Transaction Tax at 2026/27 rates, band by band (nil band £225,000 for everyone; no first-time buyer relief) or the higher rates for additional properties.
- `canada_ei_maternity_parental` ([page](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/canada-ei-benefit-calculator/)): Canada (outside Quebec): EI maternity and parental benefits for 2026: 55% of insurable earnings up to $729 a week (standard) or 33% up to $437 (extended), 15 weeks maternity, parental weeks, one-week waiting period.
- `quebec_qpip` ([page](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/quebec-qpip-calculator/)): Quebec: QPIP (RQAP) parental insurance for 2026 for both parents: basic or special plan, birth or adoption, earnings up to $103,000, weekly amounts and totals, with the shareable weeks split between parents.
- `australia_private_health_rebate_mls` ([page](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/australia-private-health-rebate-calculator/)): Australia: private health insurance rebate (1 April 2026 – 31 March 2027) and Medicare Levy Surcharge for 2026–27 by income tier, single or family, and age band: whether hospital cover saves you tax.
- `new_zealand_kiwisaver` ([page](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/kiwisaver-calculator/)): New Zealand: KiwiSaver balance at 65 under the 2026 rules (default and employer minimum 3.5%, 4% from April 2028; government contribution 25c per $1 up to $260.72; ESCT on employer contributions; PIR tax on returns). Returns are an assumption you set.
- `parental_leave_income_gap` ([page](https://decisionscalc.com/parental-leave-planner/)): Statutory parental leave pay for a birth parent and the income gap against normal pay (gross, before tax) in the UK (Statutory Maternity Pay), Ireland (Maternity Benefit), Canada (EI), Quebec (QPIP), Australia (Parental Leave Pay) or a US state’s paid family and medical leave (us-CA, us-NY, us-NJ, us-WA, us-MA and the rest; us-XX = no state program, FMLA unpaid), with an optional employer top-up.
- `uk_voluntary_ni_from_abroad` ([page](https://decisionscalc.com/tools/uk-voluntary-ni-abroad-calculator/)): UK State Pension for people living outside the UK: which gap years (2020–21 to 2026–27) can still be filled with voluntary National Insurance after the 6 April 2026 change, at Class 2 (£3.65/wk, years to 2025–26 only) or Class 3 (£18.40/wk), each year’s cost and 5 April deadline, and the State Pension gain (1/35 of £241.30 a week per year, up to 35 years) with payback.

## Guides

- [Help to Buy & the First Home Scheme in Ireland (2026)](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/ireland-help-to-buy-first-home-scheme/): Up to €30,000 back from tax you have already paid, plus shared equity of up to 30%. How Ireland two first-time buyer schemes work, what they are worth.
- [Cost of Living in Switzerland (2026): A Monthly Budget](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/cost-of-living-switzerland/): Swiss salaries look enormous until you see the outgoings. Rent, compulsory health insurance, groceries and tax.
- [The Swiss 3-Pillar Pension System Explained (2026)](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/switzerland-pension-three-pillars/): AHV, occupational BVG and private pillar 3a — what each pays, the 2026 maximums, the new 13th AHV payment.
- [Federal Student Loan Repayment Plans in 2026: What Changed](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/student-loan-repayment-plans/): SAVE is gone, RAP replaced most income-driven plans from 1 July 2026, and IBR is the only legacy plan that survives. What each plan costs and how to choose.
- [FAFSA and Financial Aid 2027-28: What You Will Actually Get](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/fafsa-financial-aid-guide/): The Student Aid Index, the Pell Grant maximum, and the OBBBA changes that alter who qualifies. How to read an aid offer and what the numbers really mean.
- [How Much Can You Borrow? UK Mortgage Affordability in 2026](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/uk-mortgage-affordability/): The 4.5× salary rule is widely misunderstood — it caps lenders, not you. How income multiples.
- [Land Transfer Tax by Province in Canada (2026)](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/land-transfer-tax-by-province-canada/): Land transfer tax ranges from nothing in Alberta to five figures in Toronto. The 2026 provincial rates, the Toronto double charge.
- [First Home Buyer Grants & Schemes in Australia (2026)](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/first-home-buyer-schemes-australia/): The federal 5% Deposit Scheme, Help to Buy, the First Home Super Saver and every state grant and stamp duty concession — what stacks, what does not.
- [Renting vs Buying in Australia (2026): The Real Numbers](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/renting-vs-buying-australia/): The honest Australian rent-vs-buy comparison — deposit, stamp duty, LMI, strata and rates against rent and the opportunity cost of your deposit.
- [Renting vs Buying in Ireland (2026): The Real Numbers](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/renting-vs-buying-ireland/): Ireland is one of the few markets where a mortgage can undercut rent from day one. The 2026 comparison — Central Bank deposit rules, stamp duty, Help to Buy.
- [Renting vs Buying in the UK (2026): The Real 5-Year Numbers](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/renting-vs-buying-uk/): The honest UK rent-vs-buy comparison — deposit, stamp duty, mortgage interest and maintenance against rent and the opportunity cost of your deposit.
- [Renting vs Buying in Canada (2026): The Real 5-Year Numbers](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/renting-vs-buying-canada/): The honest Canadian rent-vs-buy comparison — down payment, land transfer tax, CMHC premium, the stress test and the opportunity cost of your deposit.
- [Cost of Having a Baby in Australia (2026): Full Breakdown](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/cost-of-having-a-baby-australia/): What a baby actually costs in Australia — public vs private birth, the 26-week Parental Leave Pay change from 1 July 2026, Child Care Subsidy.
- [Baby's First Year Cost: 6-Country Comparison (2026)](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/cost-of-baby-first-year-by-country/): Year-one baby costs compared across the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Ireland and Switzerland — birth, childcare.
- [The True Cost of Buying a Home: 6-Country Comparison (2026)](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/cost-of-buying-a-home-by-country/): What it really costs to buy in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Ireland and Switzerland — typical prices, deposit rules.
- [How Much a Wedding Costs: 6-Country Comparison (2026)](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/wedding-cost-by-country/): Average wedding costs compared across the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Ireland and Switzerland — what drives the bill, and the levers that cut it most.
- [State Pension Age & Amount: 6-Country Comparison (2026)](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/state-pension-by-country/): When you can claim a public pension and how much you get in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Ireland and Switzerland.
- [Graduate Salary & Student Debt: 6-Country Comparison (2026)](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/graduate-salary-student-debt-by-country/): What graduates earn and owe in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Ireland and Switzerland — starting salaries and how student debt works (or barely exists) in.
- [How Much Remote Work Saves: 6-Country Comparison (2026)](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/remote-work-savings-by-country/): The real annual savings from working remotely in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Ireland and Switzerland — commuting, lunches, clothing.
- [The True Cost of Owning a Car: 6-Country Comparison (2026)](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/car-ownership-cost-by-country/): The real 5-year cost of car ownership in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Ireland and Switzerland — depreciation, insurance, fuel and tax.
- [Scotland Stamp Duty (LBTT) Rates & Bands 2026](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/scotland-lbtt-stamp-duty/): Scotland's LBTT for 2026/27 — the bands, the £175k first-time buyer relief, the 8% Additional Dwelling Supplement, worked examples.
- [Wales Stamp Duty (LTT) Rates & Bands 2026: What You Will Pay](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/wales-ltt-stamp-duty/): Wales Land Transaction Tax for 2026/27 — the residential bands, why there's no first-time buyer relief, higher rates for second homes.
- [Medicare Levy Surcharge 2026-27: Rates and Thresholds](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/medicare-levy-surcharge-australia/): The Australian Medicare Levy Surcharge for 2026-27 — the $105,000/$210,000 thresholds, the 1%/1.25%/1.5% tiers, what counts as income for surcharge purposes.
- [Parental Leave by Province in Canada (2026)](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/parental-leave-by-province-canada/): Job-protected maternity and parental leave length by province — Ontario, BC, Alberta and more — and how it differs from federal EI benefit weeks.
- [The True Cost of Buying a Home in Ireland (2026)](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/ireland-home-buying-costs/): Stamp duty, legal fees, Local Property Tax, the Central Bank deposit rules and Help to Buy — the full upfront cost, with a worked €387,000 example.
- [Renting vs Buying in Switzerland (2026): Why Most Swiss Rent](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/switzerland-rent-vs-buy/): Europe's lowest homeownership rate explained: the 20% deposit rule, the 5% affordability test, imputed rental value tax and cheap mortgages.
- [How Much Does Remote Work Really Save? 2026 Breakdown](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/how-much-does-remote-work-save/): Full data-backed breakdown: IRS mileage, lunches, wardrobe, home office costs, and salary adjustment strategies.
- [The True Cost of Having a Baby in 2026: State-by-State](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/true-cost-of-having-a-baby/): Most figures exclude childcare and lost wages. Here's the real year-one total by state, insurance type, and leave policy.
- [Nursing Home vs Assisted Living vs Home Care: 2026 Costs](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/nursing-home-vs-assisted-living-cost/): State-by-state data from Genworth 2023. What Medicare covers, what it doesn't, and the caregiver career impact.
- [Hidden Financial Cost of Chronic Illness: Beyond Copays](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/hidden-costs-chronic-illness/): Presenteeism, dietary changes, and transportation add $5,000–$20,000/yr on top of direct medical costs.
- [Home Buying Hidden Costs Beyond the Mortgage: 2026 Guide](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/home-buying-hidden-costs/): Closing costs, PMI, property taxes, HOA, and maintenance — up to $43,000 in year-one hidden costs.
- [4-Year College Cost Planning: What the Sticker Price Hides](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/true-cost-of-college/): Tuition is just the start. Loan interest and opportunity cost add $40,000–$100,000+ beyond the headline number.
- [How to Negotiate Your First Salary: 2026 Complete Guide](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/how-to-negotiate-your-first-salary/): Scripts, pay transparency law data, and the math behind why this 5-minute conversation is worth $150,000+ lifetime.
- [Debt Avalanche vs. Snowball: Which Saves More in 2026](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/debt-avalanche-vs-snowball/): Mathematical comparison with real numbers — and the psychology case for each method.
- [Roth IRA vs. Traditional IRA: Which Is Better in 2026](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/roth-ira-vs-traditional-ira/): 2026 income limits, contribution rules, and the tax math that tells you which account wins for your situation.
- [Wedding Costs in 2026: What Couples Are Actually Spending](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/wedding-costs/): Real data from 10,000+ US couples — category breakdown, city comparisons, and 8 money-saving moves that don't look cheap.
- [HSA vs. FSA: The Tax Savings Most Workers Miss in 2026](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/hsa-vs-fsa-guide/): The triple tax advantage explained, 2026 limits, and the advanced strategy that turns your HSA into a stealth Roth IRA.
- [Childcare Costs by State 2026: The Complete Map](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/childcare-costs-by-state/): Infant center care ranges from $7,200 to $24,000/yr. Full state-by-state data with tax strategies and subsidy programs.
- [Home Buying Closing Costs 2026: Complete Breakdown](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/home-buying-closing-costs/): Every fee itemized — from origination to transfer taxes — with state-by-state averages and negotiation tactics.
- [Remote Work Salary Negotiation: Keep Your Pay Going Remote](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/remote-work-salary-negotiation/): Scripts and tactics for negotiating fully remote arrangements, countering RTO mandates, and quantifying your WFH value.
- [Medicare 2026: Every Change That Affects Your Wallet](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/medicare-changes/): The Part D out-of-pocket cap ($2,100 for 2026), premium increases, and drug price negotiations — explained with dollar impact examples.
- [The True Financial Cost of Divorce in 2026](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/true-financial-cost-of-divorce/): Attorney fees, asset division, two households — the full breakdown from $15,000 uncontested to $150,000+ contested.
- [Social Security: When to Claim for Maximum Lifetime Benefit](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/social-security-when-to-claim/): The difference between claiming at 62 vs. 70 can exceed $200,000. Here's the math, the break-even analysis, and the married-couple strategy.
- [True Cost of Car Ownership 2026: Depreciation Is the Killer](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/car-true-cost-of-ownership/): New cars lose 15–25% in year one. The real 5-year ownership cost including depreciation, insurance, fuel, and maintenance.
- [529 Plans in 2026: Everything Changed with SECURE 2.0](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/529-plan-guide/): The Roth IRA rollover rule removes the main fear about over-funding. Complete 2026 guide to 529 plans, state deductions, and new rules.
- [FMLA vs Paid Leave: What New Parents Are Entitled To](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/fmla-paid-leave-guide/): Federal FMLA, state paid leave programs, and how to stack them for maximum paid time. Covers all 13 states with paid leave laws.
- [UK Stamp Duty Surcharges 2026/27: Second Homes & BTL](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/uk-stamp-duty-surcharges/): How the 5% additional-property surcharge and the 2% non-UK-resident surcharge work, who pays them, how they stack to standard+7%, worked examples at £290k.
- [UK Stamp Duty Rates 2026/27, and Every Year Since 2012](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/uk-stamp-duty-rates-by-year/): Current 2026/27 SDLT bands with worked examples, first-time buyer relief and the 5% surcharge, plus every change since 2012.
- [How to Avoid the Medicare Levy Surcharge (2026-27)](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/how-to-avoid-medicare-levy-surcharge/): Already know you are over the threshold? The practical guide to avoiding the MLS: what counts as appropriate hospital cover, the daily pro-rating rule.
- [UK AVC Pension Top-Ups 2026/27: Cost and Tax Relief](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/uk-avc-pension-top-up/): What Additional Voluntary Contributions are, the £60,000 annual allowance, how tax relief makes £100 in your pension cost £80/£60/£55 by tax band.
- [Budget 2027: What Changes for 10 Typical Irish Households](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/budget-2027-ireland-households/): Take-home pay in 2027 against 2026 for ten Irish households, from a single earner on €30,000 to a two-income couple, line by line.
- [Saving in Ireland 2026: DIRT and State Savings Explained](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/ireland-savings-dirt-guide/): How savings interest is taxed in Ireland — the 33% DIRT rate, which An Post State Savings products are DIRT-free, the over-65 exemption.
- [First-Time Buyer Stamp Duty Relief: What You Actually Pay](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/uk-stamp-duty-first-time-buyer-relief/): First-time buyer SDLT in England and NI: nothing to £300,000, 5% to £500,000, nothing above it. Who qualifies, the cliff edge, Scotland and Wales.
- [Stamp Duty Surcharge Refund: Reclaiming After You Sell](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/uk-stamp-duty-surcharge-refund/): Paid the 5% additional-property surcharge before selling your old home? Reclaim it in full — the three-year rule, the claim deadline, and how to apply.
- [Lifetime Health Cover Loading: The 2% a Year Rule](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/lifetime-health-cover-loading-australia/): How LHC loading works — 2% a year over age 30, capped at 70%, removed after ten continuous years of cover — and whether joining before 31 is worth it.
- [Capital Gains Tax When You Sell a UK Property](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/uk-capital-gains-tax-property/): CGT on a UK property sale in 2026/27: the 18% and 24% rates, the £3,000 allowance, the 60-day deadline, and what Private Residence Relief covers.
- [The Cost of Selling a House in the UK (2026): Full Breakdown](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/cost-of-selling-a-house-uk/): What it really costs to sell a UK home — estate agent fees (~1.42% inc VAT), conveyancing, EPC, removals, mortgage exit fees and CGT on second homes.
- [Scotland ADS 2026: the 8% Second-Home Surcharge](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/scotland-lbtt-additional-dwelling-supplement/): The Additional Dwelling Supplement on Scottish second homes and buy-to-let: 8% of the whole price, the £40,000 threshold, the 18-month repayment rule.
- [Wales LTT Higher Rates 2026: Second Homes & Buy-to-Let](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/wales-ltt-higher-rates-second-homes/): The higher residential rates of Land Transaction Tax for additional properties in Wales — the 5%-17% bands from 11 December 2024.
- [Maternity Leave in Ireland (2026–27): Pay, Weeks and How to Apply](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/maternity-leave-ireland/): 26 weeks paid plus 16 unpaid, Maternity Benefit of €299 a week (€309 from January 2027), the PRSI rules, deadlines and the real drop in income on your salary.
- [Fuel Allowance Ireland 2026–27: Who Qualifies, Rates and the January Change](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/fuel-allowance-ireland/): €38 a week, €43 from January 2027, and the over-66 income limit rises to €640.80. Who qualifies, the means test with worked examples, and why to apply now: it is not backdated.
- [UK State Pension from Ireland and Abroad (2026): Voluntary Class 2 and Class 3 After the April Change](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/uk-state-pension-from-abroad/): What changed on 6 April 2026, who can still buy missing UK years, Class 2 vs Class 3 costs by year, the 5 April 2027 deadlines, and what each year adds to your UK State Pension.
- [State Pension Ireland 2026–27: Rates, PRSI Contributions and HomeCaring](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/state-pension-ireland/): €299.30 a week at 66 in 2026, €309.30 from January 2027. How many PRSI contributions you need, what your record pays, and how HomeCaring Periods and credits raise it.
- [Capital Gains Tax Ireland 2026: 31% Rate, €1,270 Exemption and the 15 December Deadline](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/capital-gains-tax-ireland/): CGT fell to 31% on 7 October 2026. How to work it out, the €1,270 exemption, losses, the 15 December payment deadline, worked examples, and why most ETFs are not taxed under CGT.
- [Carer’s Allowance Ireland 2026–27: The €2,000 Couple Limit, Rates and How to Apply](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/carers-allowance-ireland/): €270 a week (€280 from January 2027). Since July 2026 a couple can earn €2,000 a week and still qualify, rising to €2,300 in July 2027. Worked examples, who qualifies and how to apply.
- [Ireland's Pension Auto-Enrolment, and When to Stay In](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/ireland-pension-auto-enrolment/): My Future Fund started in January 2026. Who is enrolled, what the 1.5% / 1.5% / 0.5% split is worth, the €80,000 cap, and when a PRSA beats it.
- [NZ Capital Gains Tax: What Each Party Proposes at the 2026 Election](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/nz-capital-gains-tax-proposal/): Labour’s 28% tax on investment and commercial property gains after 1 July 2027, what is exempt, where other parties stand, a worked example and today’s 2-year bright-line test.
- [Investing in Ireland (2026): Tax on ETFs, Shares & Funds](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/ireland-investment-tax-guide/): How investment returns are taxed in Ireland — the 38% exit tax and eight-year deemed disposal on ETFs/funds, 33% CGT on shares with the €1,270 exemption.
- [When to Take CPP: 60, 65 or 70](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/when-to-take-cpp-canada/): The CPP timing decision in Canada — a 36% cut at 60, a 42% increase at 70, where break-even actually falls, and how it interacts with the OAS clawback.
- [RRSP vs TFSA in Canada: Which Should You Fill First?](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/rrsp-vs-tfsa-canada/): The marginal-rate decision rule, contribution room mechanics, the withdrawal traps, and the practical default order for most Canadians.
- [HECS-HELP Explained: What Your Uni Debt Really Costs](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/hecs-help-explained-australia/): Income-contingent repayments, the CPI/WPI indexation cap, contribution bands, and when paying it down early actually makes sense.
- [UK State Pension 2026: How Much You Will Actually Get](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/uk-state-pension-guide/): The full new State Pension rate, qualifying years and NI gaps, the triple lock, and when buying voluntary contributions is the best deal in UK finance.
- [FHSA: The First-Home Account That Beats Both RRSP and TFSA](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/fhsa-first-home-canada/): Deductible going in, tax-free coming out — the $8,000/year FHSA rules, stacking with the $60,000 Home Buyers Plan, and the moves first-home savers miss.
- [Superannuation Guarantee 2026-27: 12% and Your Pay](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/superannuation-guarantee-australia/): The super guarantee at 12% from July 2025 — what employers must pay, what 12% compounds to over a career, salary sacrifice, the $32,500 concessional cap.
- [The Lifetime ISA, and the Two Traps In It](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/lifetime-isa-uk/): How the Lifetime ISA works in 2026/27: the £4,000 limit, the 25% bonus, the £450,000 cap frozen since 2017, and the exit charge that costs more than the bonus.
- [ISAs in 2026: Which of the Four Types Should You Use?](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/uk-isa-guide/): The £20,000 allowance, how Cash, Stocks & Shares, Lifetime and Junior ISAs differ, the LISA 25% bonus and its withdrawal trap.
- [The Cost of Raising a Child in the UK](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/cost-of-raising-a-child-uk/): What raising a child to 18 costs in the UK — the CPAG figures, why a lone parent pays more, and what Child Benefit and funded childcare take off the total.
- [Free Childcare Hours in England: Who Qualifies](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/uk-free-childcare-hours/): The working-parent entitlement from 9 months, the £100,000 income cliff, stacking Tax-Free Childcare on top, and the term-time maths that catches parents out.
- [Closing Costs in Canada: The 1.5–4% Nobody Budgets For](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/closing-costs-canada/): Land transfer tax by province, the Toronto double-tax, legal fees, the PST-on-CMHC cash sting, and the first-time buyer rebates that claw thousands back.
- [Child Benefit by Country (2026–27): US, UK, Canada, Australia, Ireland and Switzerland](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/child-benefit-by-country/): What each country pays families per child in 2026–27: the yearly maximum, the total to age 18 and who loses it as income rises.
- [Parental Leave Pay by Country (2026–27): UK, Ireland, Canada, Quebec and Australia](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/parental-leave-pay-by-country/): How much maternity and parental leave pays in five systems, with official 2026–27 rates: weeks paid, weekly amounts and the share of a year’s pay replaced at three salaries.
- [EI Maternity & Parental Leave Canada 2026: What You Get](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/ei-maternity-parental-leave-canada/): EI maternity and parental benefits for 2026 — the $729/week standard and $437/week extended caps, the 600-hour qualifying rule, standard vs extended.
- [Negative Gearing and the CGT Discount: What Changed](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/negative-gearing-cgt-australia/): What the May 2026 Budget changed for Australian property investors: negative gearing restricted from July 2027, the CGT discount replaced, and who is exempt.
- [Stamp Duty by State: The $20k–$40k Line on Your Settlement](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/stamp-duty-by-state-australia/): Indicative transfer duty on a typical home in each state, the NSW/VIC/QLD first home buyer thresholds, and why the same price closes tens of thousands apart.
- [Private Health Insurance Rebate 2026: Tiers & Thresholds](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/private-health-insurance-rebate-australia/): The 2025–26 rebate tiers and income thresholds, Medicare Levy Surcharge rates, and the age-31 Lifetime Health Cover loading.
- [Property Taxes by State 2026: What You Actually Pay](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/property-taxes-by-state/): Effective property tax rates from 0.28% to 2.49% by state. How to appeal your assessment, homestead exemptions, and exemptions for seniors.
- [401(k) at Your First Job: What to Know Before Skipping It](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/401k-guide-beginners/): Employer match math, vesting schedules, traditional vs. Roth 401(k), and the SECURE 2.0 auto-enrollment change.
- [FIRE Calculator: How Much You Need to Retire Early](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/fire-calculator-guide/): The 25x Rule, healthcare wild card, Social Security adjustment, and what FIRE numbers look like at different lifestyle levels.
- [Bridging to Pension Age: Funding Early Retirement](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/early-retirement-pension-bridge/): If you retire before 55-60 you cannot draw your pension, super or 401(k) yet. How the bridge years work, how big a bridge fund you need.
- [Long-Term Care Insurance 2026: Do You Need It?](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/long-term-care-insurance-guide/): Who should buy LTC insurance, when to buy it (before 60), policy features to compare, and the hybrid life/LTC option.
- [Job Offer Evaluation: 12 Factors Beyond Base Salary](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/job-offer-total-compensation/): The complete total compensation comparison framework — 401(k) match, healthcare cost, equity, PTO value, and remote work.
- [Home Equity Line of Credit 2026: Rules, Rates, and Risks](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/home-equity-heloc-guide/): When a HELOC makes sense and when it doesn't — current rates, draw period vs. repayment, and the deductibility rules.
- [PMI: What It Is, What It Costs, and How to Get Rid of It](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/pmi-what-it-costs-how-to-remove/): Private mortgage insurance costs $2,100–$5,400/yr. Here's how to calculate your PMI, when lenders must cancel it, and how to remove it early.
- [Credit Score 101: Build from Zero to 750+ in 12 Months](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/credit-score-guide-build-from-zero/): The five factors, which ones matter most, secured card strategy, credit utilization tactics, and the fastest legitimate paths to 750+.
- [Index Funds vs. Actively Managed Funds: The 20-Year Study](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/index-funds-vs-active-funds/): Over 20 years, 90%+ of actively managed funds underperform their index. The data, the math, and what to buy instead.
- [Student Loan Forgiveness 2026: Every Program Explained](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/student-loan-forgiveness/): PSLF, RAP, IBR and income-driven forgiveness in 2026: which applies to you, what replaced SAVE, and how forgiveness is taxed.
- [Freelance vs. Full-Time: Total Compensation Comparison 2026](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/freelance-vs-full-time-comparison/): Self-employment taxes, no benefits, variable income — here's the multiplier a freelancer needs to match a salaried job's true value.
- [Retirement Withdrawal Strategy: Which Accounts to Tap First](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/retirement-withdrawal-strategy/): The optimal withdrawal sequence — taxable first vs. tax-deferred first, RMD planning, and Roth conversion opportunities.
- [The Real Cost of a Pet: Year One and Lifetime](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/pet-true-cost-of-ownership/): Dogs cost $15,000–$55,000 lifetime. Cats $8,000–$25,000. The full breakdown including the veterinary expenses most new owners miss.
- [Life Insurance With Kids: How Much Do You Need?](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/life-insurance-how-much-do-you-need/): 10x income rule vs. DIME method vs. human life value approach — the right calculation for your specific situation.
- [Equity Compensation 101: RSUs, Options and Their Worth](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/equity-compensation-rsu-options/): How RSUs vest, when options expire, the tax hit on each type, and how to evaluate equity when comparing job offers.
- [Rent vs. Buy: The Real 5-Year Financial Analysis](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/rent-vs-buy-decision-guide/): The NY Times rent vs. buy calculator methodology, break-even analysis, and why "throwing money away" on rent is a myth.
- [The Hidden Financial Cost of Being a Family Caregiver](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/caregiver-financial-impact/): Lost wages, retirement impact, healthcare costs, and legal expenses — the $522,000 average lifetime cost caregivers bear.
- [Negotiating a Raise in 2026: Scripts That Work](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/salary-raise-negotiation/): Data on what raises are being given vs. what's being asked, the best timing, and exact scripts for every response.
- [COBRA vs ACA Marketplace: The Real Cost After Job Loss](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/cobra-vs-aca-marketplace/): COBRA costs $624/mo individual. ACA may be cheaper with subsidies. How to compare before you elect — the decision you have 60 days to make.
- [How Much Emergency Fund Do You Actually Need?](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/emergency-fund-how-much/): The 3–6 month rule is too vague. How to calculate your exact target based on job stability, income type, and health situation.
- [Medicaid Spend-Down Rules: What Your Family Needs to Know](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/medicaid-spend-down-rules/): Asset limits, exempt assets, look-back period, and spousal impoverishment protection — the rules that govern nursing home Medicaid qualification.
- [Reverse Mortgage 2026: Who It's For and Who It's Not](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/reverse-mortgage-guide/): HECM costs, eligibility, how payback works, and the situations where a reverse mortgage makes financial sense vs. when it doesn't.
- [529 vs. Roth IRA for College Savings: Which Wins in 2026](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/college-savings-529-vs-roth/): After the SECURE 2.0 rollover rule, the comparison changed. When to use each, and how to use both together.
- [The Real Cost of Burnout: Financial and Career Impacts](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/burnout-financial-cost/): Lost productivity, job loss risk, medical costs, and the 3-year career setback most people don't quantify before it's too late.
- [Estate Planning Basics: The Documents Everyone Needs](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/estate-planning-basics/): Will, trust, POA, healthcare proxy, POLST — when each is needed, what each costs, and the consequences of not having them.
- [Disability Insurance: The Cover Most People Skip](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/disability-insurance-guide/): You're 3× more likely to be disabled than to die during working years. How much coverage, what type, and how to get it.
- [Pay Transparency Laws 2026: Every State Rule](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/pay-transparency-laws/): Which states require salary ranges in job postings, how to use them in negotiations, and what the data reveals about pay gaps.
- [College Inflation 2026: What 4 Years Will Actually Cost](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/college-inflation-planning/): Published public four-year tuition fell 7% after inflation over the last decade. The real 2025-26 numbers, why the 4-5% rule overstates it.
- [The Real Cost of Retirement in Every State](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/retirement-cost-by-state/): Taxes on Social Security, income, and property vary dramatically. The best and worst states for retirement finances.
- [Dependent Care FSA 2026: The Limit Just Rose to $7,500](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/dependent-care-fsa-guide/): How the DC-FSA works, enrollment rules, the use-it-or-lose-it risk, and how to stack it with the Child Care Tax Credit.
- [Career Change at 35: The Real Financial Cost and ROI](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/career-change-financial-roi/): Income gap, retraining costs, credential costs, and the 10-year payback analysis for common career pivots.
- [Chronic Illness: Financial Resources You Didn't Know Existed](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/chronic-illness-financial-resources/): SSDI, SSI, ABLE accounts, patient assistance programs, and non-obvious tax deductions for people managing chronic conditions.
- [How Much House Can You Afford? Not What the Bank Says](https://decisionscalc.com/articles/how-much-house-can-you-afford/): Banks approve you for the maximum they'll lend — often more than you should borrow. The real affordability calculation.

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