Estate Planning: The Four Documents You Need Money Unscripted podcast

14:28

Student loans. Car loans. Mortgages. Credit cards. There are a lot of ways debt can pile up. Fast. On this episode of Money Unscripted, we talk with Sheyna, who shares how she got control of her finances and paid off $45,000 of debt. Host Ally Donnelly also sits down with Fidelity Financial Consultant Mark Greenfield to learn strategies we can all use to help pay down debt, curb spending, and set ourselves up for the future. Budget & Debt Calculators: https://www.fidelity.com/calculators-tools/budgeting-debt-management How I paid off over $40,000 in debt: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/personal-finance/how-I-paid-off-debt View all episodes here: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/money-unscripted . New episodes drop bi-weekly on Tuesdays. Have a comment or episode idea? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at moneyunscripted@fidelity.com . Be sure to follow, like, and share Money Unscripted! © 2025 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.…

Money Unscripted

1
Employee stock purchase plans explained 21:11

5 weeks ago21:11

21:11

Does your company offer an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP)? If so, it could be a way to save for a new house, your child’s education, or build your retirement nest egg—all while investing in your company. Money Unscripted host Ally Donnelly and Fidelity pro Emily Cervino walk through the potential advantages, crunch the numbers, and break down the tax implications behind this often-overlooked workplace benefit. Watch now. Invest in your work and your future with an ESPP: https://www.fidelity.com/go/stock-plan-services/employee-stock-purchase-plans 6 employee stock plan mistakes to avoid: https://www.fidelity.com/viewpoints/personal-finance/stock-plan-mistakes-to-avoid View all episodes here: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/money-unscripted . New episodes drop bi-weekly on Tuesdays. Have a comment or episode idea? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at moneyunscripted@fidelity.com. Be sure to follow, like, and share Money Unscripted! © 2025 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.…

Money Unscripted

1
Estate planning: The four documents you need 17:45

7 weeks ago17:45

17:45

Estate planning is a process that’s full of emotions. And full of questions. Where do you start? Who should be part of the conversation? And what are the key documents you need? On this episode of Money Unscripted, host Ally Donnelly and Fidelity’s Pamela Pirone-Benson break down everything from writing a will and setting up a trust to choosing your power of attorney and navigating estate taxes. Watch now. 5 steps to create an estate plan: https://www.fidelity.com/viewpoints/wealth-management/estate-planning-made-easy 10 Estate planning pitfalls to avoid: https://www.fidelity.com/viewpoints/wealth-management/estate-planning-common-pitfalls View all episodes here: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/money-unscripted . New episodes drop bi-weekly on Tuesdays. Have a comment or episode idea? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at moneyunscripted@fidelity.com . Be sure to follow, like, and share Money Unscripted! © 2025 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.…

Money Unscripted

1
Boost your investing confidence 17:21

9 weeks ago17:21

17:21

So, you’re investing in your 401(k) or other retirement accounts. Awesome. But maybe you're ready for more. That's how Irene Li, owner of Mei Mei Dumplings, was feeling. She has a brokerage account but wants to learn more so she can invest with confidence. On this episode of Money Unscripted, host Ally Donnelly and Fidelity’s Leanna Devi n ney walk us through the flexibility and potential benefits of a brokerage account. They explain how asset allocation, diversification, and tax-smart strategies can help you try and grow your money and reach your goals. Investing beyond your 401(k): https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/trading-investing/taxable-brokerage-account 6 ways busy people can help build their wealth: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/personal-finance/how-to-build-wealth View all episodes here: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/money-unscripted . New episodes drop bi-weekly on Tuesdays. Have a comment or episode idea? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at moneyunscripted@fidelity.com . Be sure to follow, like, and share Money Unscripted! © 2025 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.…

Money Unscripted

1
How to be a super saver 18:33

11 weeks ago18:33

18:33

How can you save and invest to live the life you want now and in the future? On this episode of Money Unscripted, host Ally Donnelly and Fidelity’s Gina Gillespie look at ways to leverage your investments while maximizing your saving. From setting clear goals and spending intentionally to leaning into tax-advantaged accounts and automating your savings, they cover key steps to help you become a super saver. 4 keys to an effective, dynamic savings strategy: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/wealth-management-insights/four-keys-dynamic-spending-strategy Is financial independence possible? https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/personal-finance/financial-independence-retire-early-FIRE View all episodes here: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/money-unscripted . New episodes drop bi-weekly on Tuesdays. Have a comment or episode idea? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at moneyunscripted@fidelity.com . Be sure to follow, like, and share Money Unscripted! © 2025 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.…

Money Unscripted

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Building wealth: Creating your own blueprint 15:54

13 weeks ago15:54

15:54

You earn money. But how can you build wealth? On this episode of Money Unscripted, host Ally Donnelly and Fidelity Financial Consultant Dani Braun, talk through ways to create your own financial blueprint. From defining your goals and establishing emergency savings to building a portfolio and leveraging tax-smart investing strategies, see how you can draft a solid plan. 4 keys to an effective, dynamic savings strategy: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/wealth-management-insights/four-keys-dynamic-spending-strategy 5 small steps that can make a big impact: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/personal-finance/money-management View all episodes here: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/money-unscripted . New episodes drop bi-weekly on Tuesdays. Have a comment or episode idea? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at moneyunscripted@fidelity.com . Be sure to follow, like, and share Money Unscripted! © 2025 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.…

Money Unscripted

1
529 Plans: The tax-smart way to help save for college 23:53

16 weeks ago23:53

23:53

College: It’s the number one savings priority for parents, according to the Fidelity 2024 College Savings Indicator Study. Y et, families are only on track to cover 30% of the expected costs. It’s why, on this episode of the Money Unscripted podcast, we’re taking a deep dive into 529 plans. How do these flexible, tax-advantaged accounts work? Who can contribute? What kind of expe nses do they cover? And what happens if your child doesn’t go to college? Join host Ally Donnelly and Fidelity’s Cory Latham as they hit the books to help you try and ace your college savings plan. Watch now. College savings calculator: https://www.fidelity.com/misc/college-savings/college_savings.html Check out Fidelity’s hub for all things college planning: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/life-events/prepare-for-college View all episodes here: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/money-unscripted . New episodes drop bi-weekly on Tuesdays. Have a comment or episode idea? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at moneyunscripted@fidelity.com . Be sure to follow, like, and share Money Unscripted! © 2025 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.…

Money Unscripted

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Are you on track to retire? 17:13

18 weeks ago17:13

17:13

Retirement looks different for everyone. Maybe you want to grab your passport and see everything. Maybe you want to grab a beach chair and do nothing. Whatever your goals, there are key questions to ask yourself before you take the leap. Who are you planning for? What do you want your retirement to look like? And are you on track to meet your goals? On this episode of Money Unscripted, host Ally Donnelly and Fidelity’s Andy Alvarez get to the heart of planning your retirement income, setting a realistic budget, and strategies to help you make your savings last. Watch now. Retirement strategies for every age: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/personal-finance/retirement-strategies Preparing for and living in retirement: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/personal-finance/retirement/planning-your-retirement View all episodes here: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/money-unscripted ?ccsource=p_PodDir_031125 . New episodes drop bi-weekly on Tuesdays. Have a comment or episode idea? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at moneyunscripted@fidelity.com . Be sure to follow, like, and share Money Unscripted! © 2025 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.…

Money Unscripted

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401(k) contribution limits in 2025 7:46

20 weeks ago7:46

7:46

This year, you can save more in your 401(k) than ever before. Contribution limits are up–and there’s a new super catch-up contribution for older workers. Watch this episode of the Money Unscripted podcast as host Ally Donnelly and Fidelity’s Kirsten Hunter Peterson share a rundown of the numbers, the facts about employer matches, and strategies to try and super charge your savings. Watch now. How much should I contribute to my 401(k)? https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/smart-money/how-much-should-i-contribute-to-my-401k Investing beyond your 401(k): https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/trading-investing/taxable-brokerage-account View all episodes here: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/money-unscripted New episodes drop bi-weekly on Tuesdays. Have a comment or episode idea? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at moneyunscripted@fidelity.com. Be sure to follow, like, and share Money Unscripted! © 2025 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.…

Money Unscripted

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Roth and Traditional IRAs: What’s new in 2025 7:36

22 weeks ago7:36

7:36

Did you make too much money to contribute to a Roth IRA last year? Good news: There are new income limits in 2025 that could allow you to contribute more. So, what are the new limits? How much can you contribute? What are the potential tax benefits of a Roth? And how do your savings stack up against other people your age? For strategies to help you boost your retirement savings, watch this episode of Money Unscripted with host Ally Donnelly and Fidelity’s Rita Assaf. How much should I contribute to my 401(k)? https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/smart-money/how-much-should-i-contribute-to-my-401k Investing beyond your 401(k): https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/trading-investing/taxable-brokerage-account View all episodes here: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/money-unscripted New episodes drop bi-weekly on Tuesdays. Have a comment or episode idea? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at moneyunscripted@fidelity.com. Be sure to follow, like, and share Money Unscripted! © 2025 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.…

Money Unscripted

1
Year-end money moves: Deadlines and limits 14:36

35 weeks ago14:36

14:36

To help you start the new year strong, check out our year-end financial checklist. Join Money Unscripted host Ally Donnelly and Fidelity’s Leanna Devinney to see how to make the most of your 401(k), how to stay on top of HSA contribution limits and deadlines, and how to master strategies like tax-loss harvesting. 6 year-end deadlines to know: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/personal-finance/year-end-money-deadlines 5 tax moves to consider before year-end: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/personal-finance/yearend-tax-planning-2023 What is an HSA and how does it work? https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/money-unscripted/hsa Roth IRAs -- What to know: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/money-unscripted/roth-IRA View all episodes here: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/money-unscripted Have a comment or episode idea? Email us at moneyunscripted@fidelity.com . New episodes drop bi-weekly on Tuesdays. Be sure to follow, like, and share Money Unscripted! © 2024 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.…

Money Unscripted

1
The pros and cons of 401(k) loans 15:31

38 weeks ago15:31

15:31

Maybe your car breaks down or an unexpected medical bill pops up. You need money and don’t have enough in the bank. What if you borrowed the cash from your 401(k)? On this episode of Fidelity’s Money Unscripted, join host Ally Donnelly for a deep dive on 401(k) loans. We look at how they work, how much you can borrow and what to consider before tapping your retirement savings. Thinking about a 401(k) loan? https://www.fidelity.com/viewpoints/financial-basics/taking-money-from-401k?ccsource=401kLoan_pod How to save for emergencies: https://www.fidelity.com/viewpoints/personal-finance/save-for-an-emergency?ccsource=401kLoan_pod View all episodes here: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/money-unscripted . New episodes drop bi-weekly on Tuesdays. Have a comment or episode idea? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at moneyunscripted@fidelity.com . Be sure to follow, like, and share Money Unscripted! © 2024 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.…

Money Unscripted

1
What is a health care proxy and how to get one 20:02

40 weeks ago20:02

20:02

The Bakers had just sent their daughter off to college when they got terrible news. She had been hurt in an accident and was in a coma. Because Baylie was a legal adult and didn’t have a health care proxy, her parents could not make medical decisions on her behalf. On this episode of Money Unscripted from Fidelity Investments, learn why this document is so important for any unmarried, adult child. Ally Donnelly talks with Fidelity's David Peterson to understand what a health care proxy is, how to get one, and the important conversations you need to have to help protect your family. For more info on health care proxies, check out: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/personal-finance/health-care-proxies Learn more about the Baker Family’s mission at: www.baylieswish.org . Watch all Money Unscripted episodes here: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/money-unscripted?ccsource=HCProxy_pod . New episodes drop bi-weekly on Tuesdays. Have a comment or episode idea? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at moneyunscripted@fidelity.com . Be sure to follow, like, and share Money Unscripted! © 2024 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.…

Money Unscripted

1
Make the most of a career change 17:21

42 weeks ago17:21

17:21

A career change can be exciting. And a little daunting. Whether you’re 25 or 55, there are important things you can do to try and make the most out of the financial end of the equation. On this episode of Fidelity’s Money Unscripted, host Ally Donnelly and Fidelity pro Meredith Stoddard cover it all—from salaries and benefits to stock options and rolling over your old 401(k). Check out Fidelity’s career planning resources: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/life-events/career-planning?ccsource=pod_092424 See what you can do with your old 401(k): https://www.fidelity.com/viewpoints/retirement/what-to-do-with-an-old-401k?ccsource=pod_092424 View all episodes here: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/money-unscripted?ccsource=CareerChange_pod New episodes drop bi-weekly on Tuesdays. Have a comment or episode idea? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at moneyunscripted@fidelity.com . Be sure to follow, like, and share Money Unscripted! ©2024 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.…

Money Unscripted

1
Life insurance: Protecting your loved ones 23:58

44 weeks ago23:58

23:58

You know life insurance is important. And maybe you have some coverage through your employer. But how much do you really need? How does it work? And what’s the difference between term and whole life insurance? Join us on Money Unscripted from Fidelity Investments as host Ally Donnelly and Regional Planning Consultant Amy Sutton explore ways to help you protect your loved ones. Learn more about life insurance: https://www.fidelity.com/viewpoints/wealth-management/things-to-know-about-life?ccsource=pod_091024 Determine your coverage need: https://www.fidelity.com/life-insurance/life-insurance-planning/how-much-life-insurance?ccsource=pod_091024 Considering term life insurance? Get your quote: https://digital.fidelity.com/prgw/digital/termquote/?ccsource=pod_091024 Watch all of our episodes here: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/money-unscripted . New episodes drop bi-weekly on Tuesdays. Have a comment or episode idea? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at moneyunscripted@fidelity.com. Be sure to follow, like, and share Money Unscripted! ©2024 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.…

Money Unscripted

1
Investing for beginners 25:37

51 weeks ago25:37

25:37

There are lots of reasons you may not have started investing: lack of knowledge, confidence, or time to name a few. So, on this episode of Money Unscripted, host Ally Donnelly tracks down the answers to your top investing questions. How do you get started? What’s the difference between saving and investing? How do you balance paying off debt vs. investing? Should you do it yourself or go to a pro? Join us as we break down the basics to help you make your money work harder. More answers to your investing questions here: https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/trading-investing/investing-for-beginners Join us at http://www.fidelity.com/MoneyUnscripted . New episodes drop bi-weekly on Tuesdays. Have a comment or episode idea? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at moneyunscripted@fidelity.com . Be sure to follow, like, and share Money Unscripted! © 2024 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.…

Money Unscripted

1
What is an HSA and how does it work? 22:11

1 year ago22:11

22:11

You’ve heard of health savings accounts or HSAs. But who’s eligible? What expenses do they cover? What are their contribution limits? How are they different from FSAs? How can money in the account be invested, and what are the potential tax advantages? On this episode of Money Unscripted from Fidelity Investments, join host Ally Donnelly and Fidelity pro Amy Richardson as they explore ways an HSA could help you now and in retirement. Join us at http://www.fidelity.com/MoneyUnscripted . New episodes drop bi-weekly on Tuesdays. Have a comment or episode idea? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at moneyunscripted@fidelity.com . Be sure to follow, like, and share Money Unscripted! © 2024 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.…

Money Unscripted

1
How to start a small business 21:18

1 year ago21:18

21:18

Opening a small business is a big leap, yet more and more people are now working for themselves. On this episode of Money Unscripted from Fidelity Investments, join host Ally Donnelly as we dive into the ins and outs of launching a business. From writing a business plan and securing loans to tracking income and protecting your time and assets, we’re covering the A-Z of becoming your own boss. Join us at http://www.fidelity.com/MoneyUnscripted . New episodes drop bi-weekly on Tuesdays. Have a comment or episode idea? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at moneyunscripted@fidelity.com . Be sure to follow, like, and share Money Unscripted! © 2024 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.…

Money Unscripted

1
Roth IRAs: What to know 23:15

1 year ago23:15

23:15

Roth IRAs. What are they? How are they different from a traditional IRA? What are the benefits? Who can contribute and how much? What are the income limits? Could I get one for my child? On this episode of Money Unscripted, join host Ally Donnelly and Fidelity’s Rita Assaf for what you need to know about this powerful retirement savings tool. Join us at http://www.fidelity.com/MoneyUnscripted . New episodes drop bi-weekly on Tuesdays. Have a comment or episode idea? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at moneyunscripted@fidelity.com . Be sure to follow, like, and share Money Unscripted! © 2024 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.…

Money Unscripted

1
Estate planning: Pass on your things, not family drama 25:39

1 year ago25:39

25:39

From a great aunt’s favorite china to grandad’s trusty toolbox, our most cherished possessions tell our families’ stories. How can you or your loved ones pass along your heirlooms without passing on drama ? Join Money Unscripted host Ally Donnelly as we explore an important piece of the estate planning process. We share tips on starting the conversation, taking inventory, and trying to divide things fairly to head off family conflict. Join us at http://www.fidelity.com/MoneyUnscripted . New episodes drop bi-weekly on Tuesdays. Have a comment or episode idea? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at moneyunscripted@fidelity.com . Be sure to follow, like, and share Money Unscripted! © 2024 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.…

Money Unscripted

1
Home buying: A strategic guide 17:21

1 year ago17:21

17:21

How much house can I afford? Do I really need 20% down? Could I borrow money from my 401(k)? What if I want to buy a house with a friend? On this episode of Money Unscripted, join Ally Donnelly and our Fidelity pros for the tips and tools you need to create a blueprint for your own home sweet home. Join us at http://www.fidelity.com/MoneyUnscripted . New episodes drop bi-weekly on Tuesdays. Have a comment or episode idea? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at moneyunscripted@fidelity.com . Be sure to follow, like, and share Money Unscripted! © 2024 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.…

Money Unscripted

1
Tackling student loan debt 15:43

1 year ago15:43

15:43

You get your diploma and just like that, you’re an adult. You’re starting a career. You’re making plans. You might also be carrying some serious student debt. On this episode of Fidelity Investment's Money Unscripted, join host Ally Donnelly as she discovers how to get organized, prioritize payments, and still save for the future you want. View transcript . Join us at http://www.fidelity.com/MoneyUnscripted . New episodes drop bi-weekly on Tuesdays. Have a comment or episode idea? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at moneyunscripted@fidelity.com . Be sure to follow, like, and share Money Unscripted! © 2024 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.…

Money Unscripted

1
Financial literacy: What we wish we had learned in school 26:35

1 year ago26:35

26:35

Ever feel like everyone else has it all together when it comes to money? Spoiler: they don't. We all have questions (some we're too embarrassed to ask). It's why on this episode, we're tackling the financial basics. Join Ally Donnelly, as we talk strategies for budgeting and saving to managing debt and investing 101. We're sharing the pro insights from Fidelity Investments that can help you plan for your family and future. View transcript . Join us at Fidelity.com/MoneyUnscripted . New episodes drop bi-weekly on Tuesdays. Have a comment or episode idea? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at moneyunscripted@fidelity.com . Be sure to follow, like, and share Money Unscripted! © 2024 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.…

Money Unscripted

1
Side hustle money moves 18:23

1 year ago18:23

18:23

Some side hustles pay the bills. Some feed the soul. The best do both. On this episode of Money Unscripted, join host Ally Donnelly as she dives into this booming gig economy. From staying organized with both your time and money to prepping for tax season, get the professional insights from Fidelity Investments that can help make your side hustle hustle harder for you. View transcript . Join us at Fidelity.com/MoneyUnscripted . New episodes drop bi-weekly on Tuesdays. Have a comment or episode idea? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at moneyunscripted@fidelity.com . Be sure to follow, like, and share Money Unscripted! © 2024 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.…

Money Unscripted

1
Doing retirement differently 24:40

1 year ago24:40

24:40

How much is enough? How can I invest? What about health care costs in retirement? On this episode of Money Unscripted, a new podcast from Fidelity Investments, Ally Donnelly talks with one man about finally pursuing his dream in retirement. Plus, our Fidelity pro weighs in with insights and money-smart strategies to help you retire your way. Join us at www.fidelity.com/moneyunscripted . Have a comment or episode idea? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at moneyunscripted@fidelity.com . View transcript…

Money Unscripted

1
Teaching teens smart money habits 25:23

1 year ago25:23

25:23

Say “money” to a teenager and their eyes light up. Say “budget” and eyes start rolling. So how can you teach your kids smart financial habits without putting them to sleep? On this episode of Money Unscripted, a new podcast from Fidelity Investments, host Ally Donnelly sits down with a Fidelity pro to see how to start the conversation that’ll help set your teen up for success. Join us at www.fidelity.com/moneyunscripted . Have a comment or episode idea? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at moneyunscripted@fidelity.com . View transcript…

Money Unscripted

1
Welcome to Money Unscripted! 1:08

1 year ago1:08