Cryptocurrency has emerged as a revolutionary, yet highly volatile, asset class, capturing the attention of investors worldwide. Since the advent of Bitcoin in 2009, thousands of digital currencies have been created, each with its own unique purpose and technology. As an investment vehicle, cryptocurrency presents a unique set of opportunities and risks that potential investors must thoroughly understand.

Cryptocurrencies, often lauded for their disruptive potential and criticized for their speculative nature, offer a distinctive alternative to traditional investments like stocks, bonds, and real estate. For those considering diving into this digital frontier, a balanced understanding of its advantages and disadvantages is crucial.

Determining "when you can retire" is a complex and highly personal question, as it depends on many factors specific to your individual circumstances, financial situation, and retirement goals. There's no single magic age or amount of money that applies to everyone.

• The Trump administration has made significant budget cuts to the U.S. Department of Education in recent days.

• An announcement regarding layoffs at the education department maintains that funding for special needs students will continue. However, disability advocates are expressing concern that recent cuts could affect special education services.

Insurance companies deny a significant number of health insurance claims for millions of people each year, including individuals with disabilities, but many denials can be successfully appealed.

Persistence, gathering supporting documentation, and seeking advocacy help, media involvement, or legal support can be crucial steps in challenging denied claims.

Successful appeals not only help individuals but also can lead to broader policy changes and legal precedents that benefit others.

Disability advocates are suing the Social Security Administration. The lawsuit highlights barriers to accessing Social Security services, including staffing reductions and long wait times, that unduly affect vulnerable populations.

For adults receiving disability benefits, pursuing a career is often not an option. To receive such benefits, an individual must not be able to engage in "substantial gainful activity." The federal government defines substantial gainful activity as earning more than $1,550 a month (in 2024) through employment.

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs-based program that provides financial assistance to individuals with limited income and resources, including adults 65 and older and people with disabilities.

• SSI recipients must report all sources of income, including earned income, unearned income, in-kind support and maintenance, gifts and financial assistance, and other resources. They can do so via several channels, including online, phone, and in person.

• Failure to report income accurately and on time can lead to overpayments, penalties, reduced benefits, or suspension of payments.

Thanks to recent changes in the tax law, families can now make limited transfers from existing 529 accounts to ABLE accounts with no tax consequences. Families with special needs children may be thinking about rolling existing 529 funds into ABLE accounts.