Hynes Financial Partners

08/20/2026

Back-to-school season is bringing higher costs for many families.

A new analysis found that a typical basket of school items, including notebooks, lunch boxes, and index cards, is up nearly 8% compared with last year.

School lunches are also more expensive, with the cost of a typical packed lunch up 11%.

The analysis estimates families may spend roughly $4,000 per student on school supplies and lunches this year, including about $175 on school items and $3,800 on packed lunches.

Some items have seen especially sharp increases. Lunch boxes are up 27%, one-subject notebooks are up 23%, and index cards are up 22%.

Higher tariffs, imported school supplies, food prices, and energy costs are all contributing to the increase.

For families, back-to-school shopping is a reminder that seasonal expenses can add up quickly, especially when everyday costs are already stretching household budgets.


Source:

U.S. households will spend roughly $4,000 per student on school supplies and lunches this year, a new analysis found.

08/14/2026

The Common Cents Act has passed the House and now moves to the Senate for consideration.

The bill is tied to the phase-out of the penny and would create a national rounding standard for cash transactions.

Under the proposal, cash purchases would be rounded up or down to the nearest five cents when exact change is not available.

For example, a purchase totaling $10.02 would round down to $10.00, while a purchase totaling $10.04 would round up to $10.05.

Pennies would still retain their value under the act, even as the Treasury stopped minting them.

The bill is especially relevant for businesses that handle cash, including restaurants and retailers, because it could reduce confusion and legal risk around exact change.


Source:

New law aims to address how businesses and consumers should transact amid the phase-out of the penny.

08/04/2026

Life insurance is often framed as something you only think about "just in case."

But for many people, it can be part of a broader financial foundation—supporting both current flexibility and future considerations.

From how coverage works to what employer benefits actually provide, understanding the basics can make it easier to decide what fits your situation.

Several factors affect the cost and availability of life insurance. And any guarantees associated with a policy depend on the issuing insurance company's ability to continue making claim payments.

07/10/2026

If your kids are starting a summer job, why not look into a Custodial Roth account? Talk to your kids about how they can get started with tax-advantaged savings. Whether they put money in the account or you get it started for them with a gift, it’s a good way to start a great habit. For more information or to set up a meeting, drop us a note today!

We can explain the pros and cons of Custodial Roth IRA, and introduce you to some of the unique features of custodial accounts, including when kids can take control of the asset. Also, remember, with a Roth IRA, to qualify for the tax-free and penalty-free withdrawal of earnings, a Roth must meet a 5-year holding requirement and occur after age 59½. Tax-free and penalty-free withdrawals can also be taken under certain other circumstances, and the original Roth IRA owner is not required to take minimum annual withdrawals.

07/04/2026

Happy Birthday America 🗽

Thank you for an incredible first half of 2026, have a great 4th of July!

06/21/2026

Did you know that the first Father's Day was celebrated in 1910? It was established to recognize the vital role fathers play in the lives of their children and families. Take this opportunity to express gratitude and make your dad feel extra loved on this special day.

06/19/2026

Wishing you a meaningful Juneteenth! President Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, but it actually took a full two and a half years when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation June 19th 1965.

Reminder the stock market is closed today. Enjoy your weekend!

06/12/2026

This month in MassMutual history

In June 1925, MassMutual held a groundbreaking for its new home office building at 1295 State Street in Springfield. The building was erected on the site of a former brewery and would be completed in 1927.

06/02/2026

📅 June is National Men's Health Month.

☀️ With warmer weather around the country, it's a great time to reaffirm your dedication to your health.

👀 This means more than going for a run or going for a bike ride with the guys. It means taking a broader look at ways to take better care of both body and mind.

🩺 Don't skip your regular check in with your medical team. Don't ignore your mental health, either. And, yes, by all means, look into your fitness routine.

🌱 Taking steps now to improve your overall health will never be something you regret.