Interest

3 Simple Tax Terms That Have Been Redefined to Confuse Us

Is the U.S. tax code designed to be confusing? At more than 70,000 pages, its complexity is hard to overstate. But forget its size: Even in its most basic terms, the IRS seems determined to muddy the waters. To help you out, we've unpacked a few of the most weaselly weasel words.

Are Higher Interest Rates on the Way?

Federal Reserve officials raised concerns last month that a big jump in energy prices could weaken the economy and unleash inflation, prompting a few to suggest the possibility of tightening credit -- and increasing interest rates -- this year.

How Long Is America's Road Back to Full Employment?

There's no way to sugarcoat it: The U.S. job deficit is huge, and it will take years to fix. But investors shouldn't become too pessimistic. America's economy has the capacity to adapt and renew itself faster than many folks expect.

This Year's Federal Deficit: About 10% of the GDP

The federal deficit will amount to the equivalent of approximately 10% of U.S. gross domestic product for the fiscal year, which ended Sept. 30, according to a Treasury official. That's about the same percentage as the previous fiscal year.

No More Do-Overs for Social Security?

A provision that allows retirees to correct the mistake of tapping their benefits too early has been used by some as a fairly lucrative investment strategy. Now, the Social Security Administration wants to end the practice.