(StatePoint) When a child is born or serious illness strikes, workers need time off, but for millions of Americans, it’s not that simple.

(StatePoint) When families have safe, stable housing, access to high-quality early development programs, and other supports that meet their needs, young children have a strong foundation to grow. However, too many families are struggling to meet children’s basic needs.

(StatePoint) American educators work every day to give their students a brighter future. Unfortunately, not all classrooms are equipped with tools and resources that match the dedication of teachers and the potential of students.

(StatePoint) Money management is not only a logistical challenge for many families, it can be an emotional one too, especially when it comes to transferring wealth from one generation to the next. Open, honest conversations about your financial values and intentions can cut through some of the stress, and help family members avoid resentment, confusion and even legal strife down the line.

(StatePoint) Greater income allows parents to better meet children’s basic needs, and financial stability can reduce parental stress. Advocates say that child tax credits (CTCs) provide one avenue for states to increase family resources and are encouraged by progress being made by Washington, D.C. and states around the country.

(StatePoint) Does homeownership feel out of reach? A manufactured home is an affordable alternative that you may not have considered before.

(StatePoint) Shopping for a new roof but unsure if metal is the right material for your home? Metal roofing is tougher, safer and longer-lasting than asphalt, with an expected lifespan of more than 50 years. Additionally, metal roof systems offer energy cost savings, withstand extreme weather, and boost resale value.

(StatePoint) Workplace retirement savings plans are an excellent way to invest in your future, and the earlier you start, the more opportunity your savings have to grow. Typically automated through payroll deductions, contributions to a plan like a 401(k) or 403(b) are tax-advantaged and easy to make.

(StatePoint) Launching and managing a small business offers a complicated mix of challenges and rewards.

(StatePoint) These days, shoppers may be paying more attention to where and how their products were made.

(StatePoint) What Americans want in their smartphone is changing rapidly, new research reveals.

(StatePoint) Early experiences during the prenatal period and first three years after birth shape brain development and the development of all other systems in the body — with substantial effects on learning, behavior, and physical and mental health. Unfortunately, there is a great discrepancy between the rising costs of raising young children and the level of federal government investment in them.

(StatePoint) Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) and paid sick leave help workers maintain their livelihoods while taking care of themselves and their families. And now, several states in the South have begun to expand worker access to these critical benefits.

(StatePoint) Looking to stretch your dollar further in 2026? Here’s how your family can get more bang for your buck on the items and services you use most:

(StatePoint) With extreme cold weather and energy bills on the rise, many homeowners are taking a closer look at heating alternatives like pellet heating. Beyond cozy ambiance and aesthetics, pellet heating offers many advantages.

(StatePoint) The beginning of the year is a natural time for a reset, especially when it comes to budgets and better-for-you habits. With cold and flu season still in full swing, it’s also a time when many people start thinking about how to stay healthy without spending more than they planned.

(StatePoint) The use of checks may be declining, but check crimes are actually on the rise due to new, creative criminal schemes. Once a check is stolen, it can be altered or signed on your behalf to withdraw money from your account, and there are online marketplaces where criminals will sell stolen checks for other criminals to use for fraud.

(StatePoint) What are homeowners focusing on right now? Impactful, affordable upgrades. New research highlights that painting remains one of the most popular home improvement projects expected in 2026, driven by tighter budgets and a desire for lasting design.

(StatePoint) Unprecedented. That’s the consensus for the 2025 economy.

(StatePoint) With a few smart updates, especially those that protect against winter’s biggest water woes, you can transform your home into the calming sanctuary you need during the coldest, darkest days of the year.

(StatePoint) Are you currently looking to rent a home or apartment? Then you need to protect yourself from rental fraud.

(StatePoint) Scammers don’t take days off. From phishing emails to package theft, fraudsters and scammers can cost you money. Fortunately, you can stay one step ahead of them with these simple tips to help protect yourself.

(StatePoint) Managing your finances can be challenging, especially when you’re not sure where to turn for help.

(StatePoint) Retirees become eligible to claim Social Security benefits at age 62, but the timing of when you claim can drastically impact your benefit amount. Still, when to claim will be entirely dependent on your unique situation. As you approach retirement, it’s important to understand the impact that timing has on your benefits.