About
Editorial Policy
Every SmartPath Finance page aims to be accurate, impartial and genuinely useful. This policy explains how we research and review content, how we handle corrections, and how we keep commercial relationships separate from editorial decisions.
Last reviewed
Our standards
- Accuracy. Facts, figures and rules are checked against primary sources wherever possible, such as the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Federal Trade Commission, FDIC, IRS, Social Security Administration and federal regulators.
- Impartiality. We present pros, cons and alternatives. We don't tell readers a product is "best" without explaining why and for whom.
- Clarity. We write in plain English and explain any necessary terms. Our glossary defines common terms.
- No invented content. We do not publish fabricated statistics, reviews, testimonials, ratings, authors or credentials.
Research and review
Content is researched and written by the SmartPath Finance editorial team and reviewed before publication. Each page shows a "last reviewed" date. We review pages periodically, and sooner when laws, rates or regulations change.
Examples and illustrations
Worked examples use clearly hypothetical numbers to illustrate concepts. They are not predictions or guarantees, and your own results will differ.
Advertising and affiliate relationships
SmartPath Finance may display advertising and use affiliate links. When a page contains affiliate links, we label it with a disclosure. Our editorial team decides what to cover and what to say independently of advertisers and affiliate partners. Compensation may affect where and whether a product link appears, but never our explanations, criteria or conclusions.
Not personalized advice
Our content is general education. It doesn't consider your individual circumstances and isn't a substitute for advice from a qualified professional such as a fee-only fiduciary financial planner, tax professional or attorney.
Corrections
If you spot an error, please tell us through our contact page and choose "Content correction." We review every report and update pages promptly when a correction is warranted.