Participant Insights

Portfolio rebalancing, how to budget your money, what’s an HSA and who needs one? Preparing for retirement is hard. From personal finance basics to retirement planning and everything in between, we’ve got a few ideas to make life a little simpler. Contact MCF with any questions.

Financial Wellness

Sticky Saving Goals to Suit Your Personality

March 8, 2026 Financial Wellness

The start of a new year is a natural time to set fresh financial resolutions, but unfortunately most don’t last past February. One reason may be that our money goals often don’t align with the way we naturally think or how we stay motivated once the initial enthusiasm fades. A study of more than 2,400 individuals published by American Psychologist found that people tend to save more successfully when their savings goals fit their personality — specifically their “Big Five” personality traits. Here’s how higher levels of these traits may influence everyday saving behavior…

How to Fit Your Student Loan Payments Back in Your Budget

February 28, 2026 Savings

After a multi-year pause during the pandemic, federal student loan payments resumed in October 2023. For many borrowers, this meant reintroducing a significant monthly expense. Even a few years later, those payments may still be putting pressure on your budget. Here are some practical steps you can take to regain control.

You Can Now Save More in Your 401(k). See Why That Matters

February 16, 2026 Savings

Most people don’t look forward to annual IRS announcements the same way they do the next season of their favorite Netflix show, but this one’s worth a look. Higher retirement plan contribution limits have been announced for 2026, and even a modest bump in your savings rate can make a big difference down the road.

The Retirement Summit: Reaching the Top with Small Increases

February 3, 2026 Savings

Saving for retirement doesn’t have to mean big sacrifices today. In fact, the real magic comes from small, steady increases over time. Think of it like climbing a mountain, you don’t leap to the summit; you take one step at a time. By gradually raising your contribution rate, you give compound growth more fuel to work with, and your retirement savings can grow significantly faster than if you stayed at the same level.

Six Retirement Plan Benefits You Might Not Know About

January 12, 2026 Retirement

When you think of the benefits of your retirement plan, tax-deferred savings and matching contributions are probably top of mind. But there’s more to your workplace retirement plan than meets the eye. Beyond the basics, retirement plans can come with a number of lesser-known advantages that can help you protect, grow, and pass on your savings more efficiently. Here are six perks you might not even realize you have.

Creating a Savings Budget that works for you?

January 6, 2026 Savings

Setting and maintaining a personal budget has never been more important. With inflation driving up the cost of housing, groceries, and everyday essentials, many households are finding it harder to maintain the lifestyle they once had. A realistic budget helps you stay in control and plan for both today and the future. When creating a realistic budget, try to stick to the 50/30/20 Rule. 50% of total monthly income to be spent on essential expenses, 30% allocated to discretionary expenses, and 20% dedicated to savings.