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Monday, May 4, 2026

Discover how to accelerate your retirement savings during your peak earning years. Learn about catch-up contributions, the "triple tax advantage" of HSAs, and how Roth conversions can create financial flexibility for your future.

Monday, April 20, 2026

With gas prices on the rise, efficiency is key. From tire pressure to driving habits, learn simple, actionable strategies to improve your car’s fuel economy and keep your travel costs down without the need for expensive gadgets.

Wednesday, March 18, 2026

Money skills aren’t always taught in school — but they can start at home. Here’s an age-by-age guide to the financial terms every parent should teach their kids, from saving and budgeting to credit scores and retirement accounts.

Wednesday, March 4, 2026

The Winter Olympics remind us that setbacks are part of success. From dramatic falls to inspiring comebacks, discover four powerful lessons about resilience, growth, and long-term financial progress.

Wednesday, February 25, 2026

Important Updates for the 2025 Tax Year Last year, Congress passed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBB). Among other things, this new law made some important changes to our nation’s tax code. In fact, it’s the most significant tax...

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Wednesday, February 11, 2026

A 2026 financial checklist covering RMD updates, super catch-up contributions, Roth rules for high earners, and key estate planning reviews to start the year strong.

Thursday, January 29, 2026

Kick off 2026 with practical financial resolutions—from workplace benefits and insurance reviews to estate planning and long-term goal strategies.

Thursday, January 15, 2026

If international travel is on your horizon over the next few years, timing matters more than most people realize. Airfare, hotels, and even daily expenses can vary widely depending on the month you travel — sometimes by hundreds or even tho

Friday, December 12, 2025

Explore the most common charitable giving vehicles—Donor Advised Funds, Private Foundations, and Trusts—and discover how each can help you give back while aligning with your long-term financial and tax goals.

Monday, November 24, 2025

Medicare and private insurance premiums are projected to jump in 2026. Learn what’s driving the increases, who’s most affected, and how early planning can help you prepare for higher healthcare costs.

Monday, November 10, 2025

Year-end is a great time to connect with your CPA on contributions, charitable gifting strategies, loss harvesting, documentation, and projected AGI to help position next year’s planning.

Wednesday, October 8, 2025

Health insurance premiums—including Medicare Parts B & D and private plans—are projected to rise significantly in 2026. Learn what’s changing and how to prepare for higher costs.

Wednesday, September 24, 2025

September is Financial Preparedness Month! Take steps to organize documents, safeguard records, and build readiness so your finances stay steady no matter what life brings.

Thursday, September 11, 2025

Learn four popular retirement withdrawal strategies—buckets, 4%, proportional, and guardrails—and how they can be customized to support your long-term income needs.

Friday, August 29, 2025

On July 4th, President Trump signed into law the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (BBB), a sweeping piece of legislation that touches nearly every corner of the economy—from the debt ceiling and Medicaid to immigration and taxes. As you...

Tuesday, August 19, 2025

Investment scams are costing Americans billions. Discover how to recognize red flags, avoid common traps, and explore smarter options with a professional financial partner. In today’s fast-paced digital age, investment opportunities...

Wednesday, July 23, 2025

They are the kind of terms that frequently make headlines in the Wall Street Journal or on CNBC. “Company X increases their dividend to $2.50 per share.” “Company Y announced a new buyback program of their shares today.” “Investors...

Saturday, July 12, 2025

When it comes to planning for the unexpected, establishing a Power of Attorney (POA) is a critical piece of the puzzle. Whether it's managing finances, making healthcare decisions, or handling property matters, a POA allows someone...

Wednesday, July 2, 2025

On May 12, President Trump announced that tariffs on Chinese goods would be temporarily lowered from 145% to 30%.1 China, meanwhile, agreed to cut duties on American imports from 125% to 10%.1 While this isn’t really a trade deal, in...

Tuesday, June 17, 2025

Why “Do-It-Yourself” Estate Planning Can Cost You More Than You Think. Let’s be honest—there are plenty of things you can do yourself with the help of the Internet: change a tire, fix a leaky faucet, maybe even tile a backsplash. But...

Thursday, June 5, 2025

Protect your retirement from unexpected expenses. Learn why an emergency fund is essential and how to build one to stay financially secure when life throws curveballs your way.

Tuesday, May 27, 2025

It’s graduation season—a time of celebration and new beginnings. For families with college seniors, this time can bring both excitement and uncertainty. While some graduates have jobs lined up, many others still are navigating job...

Wednesday, May 14, 2025

As summer approaches, your thoughts may drift toward escaping your daily routine. Whether your idea of a perfect vacation is sitting on a pristine beach, fishing in a mountain lake, or playing the back nine between pickleball matches,...

Wednesday, April 16, 2025

April is a pivotal time in the college admissions process. After years of preparation, saving, and investing—not to mention the countless hours spent on exam prep, campus visits, and perfecting applications and essays—the finish line...

Tuesday, April 1, 2025

April isn’t just about filing taxes—it’s also Financial Literacy Month, a perfect opportunity to reflect on your financial habits, expand your knowledge, and take meaningful steps toward improving your financial well-being. Whether...

Tuesday, March 25, 2025

One of the greatest gifts you can give your loved ones is a thoughtful estate strategy that outlines your wishes after you are gone. Discussing estate details with your team of professionals is another way to help manage your legacy...

Tuesday, March 11, 2025

March is Women’s History Month, and according to a recent survey, 49% of women consider themselves to be the chief financial officer of their households, up from 41% in 2021.1 Those numbers are even more impressive when you consider...

Wednesday, February 26, 2025

You've worked hard throughout your life to build assets to support your retirement. As financial professionals, one of the most critical functions we provide is helping clients determine their retirement income needs and structuring a...

Tuesday, February 11, 2025

Tax season brings a new wave of identity theft risks, with criminals ready to exploit your personal data to file fraudulent tax returns in your name. Imagine the shock of discovering that a criminal beat you to filing your...

Wednesday, January 15, 2025

Social Security is often misunderstood or underestimated in retirement strategy. However, as financial professionals, we've seen how it can play a crucial role in our clients' overall financial strategy, regardless of their income...

Wednesday, January 1, 2025

Looks like New Year's resolutions are still going strong in 2024! A recent Pew survey found that about a third of Americans kicked off the year with at least one resolution, and many people actually went for multiple goals. It's...

Wednesday, December 18, 2024

As we approach the end of 2024, it's an opportune time to reflect on the year's financial developments and consider what 2025 may bring. We believe in understanding both the past and potential future of our economic landscape, which...

Wednesday, December 11, 2024

As you approach retirement, a critical aspect of your retirement strategy can catch even the most financially savvy individuals off guard: healthcare costs. For decades, you may have enjoyed employer-sponsored health insurance. As...

Thursday, November 21, 2024

Financial professionals typically have a year-round focus on monetary goals and wealth management strategies. However, we also believe that true financial well-being is intrinsically linked to your overall life satisfaction and...

Tuesday, October 22, 2024

As financial professionals, we’ve noticed a trend among our clients: an increasing interest in electric vehicles (EVs). To help address some of your questions, we’ve compiled this high-level guide to provide insights into the financial...

Tuesday, October 8, 2024

Statistics show that nearly 33% of Americans have faced some identity theft attempts in their lives, and experts estimate there is a new case of identity theft every 22 seconds. As financial professionals, one of our primary goals is...

Wednesday, September 18, 2024

The Impact of Elections on the Markets and Tax Policy With Labor Day behind us, we're in the final stretch of the 2024 presidential election race. As we follow the news and parse the most recent polls, some may ask, "How might what...

Wednesday, September 4, 2024

Don’t Be A Victim Of The Retirement Crisis If you think the United States has a retirement crisis, you are not alone. A recent survey found that 79% of working-age Americans believe the same thing. That percentage is up from 67% in...

Thursday, August 15, 2024

In 1999, Bill Gates wrote, “How you gather, manage, and use information will determine whether you win or lose.” Companies looking to be successful in the future should heed these words when making decisions about implementing...

Thursday, August 1, 2024

Sending a child off to college is a major milestone for any family, whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or close friend. It’s an exciting time, filled with anticipation and perhaps a bit of trepidation. There’s so much to do, and...

Wednesday, July 17, 2024

If you are a small business owner—or plan to be one—you should be aware of a new reporting requirement. The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), passed in 2021, changed beneficial ownership rules, which is expected to impact 32 million...

Wednesday, July 10, 2024

Legacy preparation can play a key role in any financial strategy. Legacy management lets you consider what happens to everything you’ve accumulated—and may continue to accumulate—throughout your lifetime. But far too often, we’ve seen...

Tuesday, June 25, 2024

Election years often create a mix of excitement and uncertainty in financial markets. Investors are typically anxious about the short-term effects that political outcomes will have on their investment portfolios. Undoubtedly, with...

Friday, June 14, 2024

As we enter the traditional wedding month of June, we wanted to explore the range of expenses that can be related to this special event. The average US wedding costs $35,0001 According to The Knot Real Weddings Study of nearly 10,000...

Tuesday, June 4, 2024

Sir John Templeton once said, “The four most expensive words in investing are: ‘This time it’s different.'” And normally, we would agree. But the phrase “This time it’s different” may apply to what's happened in financial markets in...

Wednesday, May 22, 2024

A few years ago, there were ads from financial services companies asking, “What’s your number?” The number was the money you needed to retire comfortably. This was an effective way for financial services companies to get people...

Thursday, May 9, 2024

Managing the financial aftermath of loss is challenging, yet with professional guidance and planning, you can safeguard assets and aid both the deceased and survivors. While it may not alleviate emotional distress, attending to finances off

Wednesday, May 8, 2024

There isn’t a week that goes by when you don’t read about some data breach. Safeguarding your personal information starts with understanding cybersecurity risks, knowing what to look for, and doing everything you can to help protect...

Tuesday, April 16, 2024

At the end of 2025, portions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) are set to expire. Many changes will come with the sunsetting of many rules, including the possibility that federal estate and gift tax exemption levels will revert to...

Tuesday, April 2, 2024

Give your children the gift of financial literacy. They’ll thank you later! As a parent, you are well aware of your responsibility in helping your children grow up happy and healthy. Once they enter their teen years, the pressure can...

Tuesday, March 26, 2024

As the presidential election race heats up, a common question on investors’ minds is, “How might the looming White House vote impact the markets?” Some may wonder if they should tweak their portfolios or sit tight...

Tuesday, March 12, 2024

Experts estimate there are more than 44 million people with disabilities in the U.S., representing 13.4% of the population.1 Many parents of children with disabilities choose to establish a special needs trust. This can help provide...

Thursday, February 22, 2024

Much is written about the classic financial mistakes that plague start-ups, family businesses, corporations, charities, etc. Some classic financial missteps have been known to plague retirees, too. Calling them "missteps" may be a bit...

Monday, February 12, 2024

2/12 The Psychology of Love and Money Money can be a touchy subject, especially regarding our closest relationships. Whether we like it or not, finance plays an integral role in our partnerships, families, and friendships. So, how can...

Tuesday, February 6, 2024

2/6 Rules and Regulation Changes That Could Impact Your Finances in 2024 In the ever-evolving financial landscape, staying informed about the latest changes and potential implications for your retirement savings is crucial. Shifts in...

Tuesday, January 2, 2024

In 2024, LPL Research believes markets will make a definitive turn to a more recognizable place. En route, the transition will be marked by meaningful shifts in a few key areas. Inflation is going down. The risk of a recession is...

Wednesday, December 27, 2023

While we haven’t yet said goodbye to 2023, it’s not too early to begin thinking about any tax changes that may be on the horizon.  The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017 was designed to overhaul the federal tax code...

Wednesday, December 20, 2023

We’re coming to the end of tax season, but that doesn’t mean we should stop thinking about taxes.   In fact, this is the perfect time to make a game plan to make tax planning more proactive than reactive....

Wednesday, December 6, 2023

You know how important it is to plan for your retirement, but where do you begin? One of your first steps should be to estimate how much income you'll need to fund your retirement. That's not as easy as it sounds, because retirement...

Wednesday, November 15, 2023

Balancing work and family is a highly personal endeavor, and there is no magic formula. It takes planning and resolve, and you'll need to make choices along the way that align with what's important to you.

Sunday, November 5, 2023

By definition, estate planning is a process designed to help you manage and preserve your assets while you are alive, and to conserve and control their distribution after your death according to your goals and objectives. But what...

Friday, October 27, 2023

You know how important it is to plan for your retirement, but where do you begin? One of your first steps should be to estimate how much income you'll need to fund your retirement. That's not as easy as it sounds, because retirement...

Monday, September 11, 2023

Choosing a Retirement Plan that Fits Your Business If you have yet to develop a retirement plan for your business, or if you're not sure the plan you've chosen is the right one, here are some things to consider. How much can my...

Tuesday, July 25, 2023

You're beginning to accumulate substantial wealth, but you worry about protecting it from future potential creditors. Whether your concern is for your personal assets or your business, various tools exist to keep your property safe...

Friday, July 14, 2023

LPL Financial Research Midyear Outlook 2023: The Path Toward StabilityOur 2023 investing outlook started with a theme of returning to normalcy. Considering 2022’s market volatility and the aftereffects of the pandemic, the idea...

Tuesday, July 11, 2023

As we finalize the log on the first six months of 2023, we believe there’s value in reflecting on recent months gone by. Doing so can help crystallize key learnings and help chart a course through the rest of the year. Looking...

Wednesday, June 14, 2023

If you care about what happens to your money, home, and other property after you die, you need to do some estate planning. There are many tools you can use to achieve your estate planning goals, but a will is probably the most vital....

Wednesday, June 7, 2023

It is crucial that your estate plan meets your state’s legal requirements to ensure your final wishes are honored, so expert help is recommended. Consult with an estate planning attorney to ensure that documents are correctly prepared, ....

Thursday, May 25, 2023

As you grow older, your housing needs may change. Maybe you'll get tired of doing yardwork. You might want to retire in sunny Florida or live close to your grandchildren in Illinois. Perhaps you'll need to live in a nursing home or an...

Wednesday, April 19, 2023

Myths and misstatements of fact frequently circulate on the Internet, in email and on websites, and are repeated in endless loops of misinformation. One common set of such misinformation involves the history of the Social Security system.

Wednesday, April 5, 2023

Claiming Social Security benefits can be one of the more complicated topics for most of people.  There are a multitude of rules that can have a significant and lasting impact on your future income steam and overall financial...

Thursday, March 23, 2023

Insurance serves many purposes for a business. You'll need insurance to protect your business from property damage, personal injury suits, and other forms of financial loss. In addition, you may want to provide your employees with...

Friday, March 10, 2023

The IRS announced that January 23 was the start of the 2023 tax season—or the date the IRS began accepting 2022 tax year returns. If you have yet to file, most taxpayers have until Tuesday, April 18, 2023, to submit their tax...

Tuesday, January 24, 2023

Without a doubt, you’re hearing about the SECURE Act 2.0. It seems like every day there’s a new headline in the news, which only serves to create a lot of questions. Let’s face it, headlines – and even the stories that follow

Tuesday, January 17, 2023

The Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement Act of 2019, popularly known as the SECURE Act, was signed into law in late 2019.Now called SECURE Act 1.0, it included provisions that raised the requirement for mandatory...

Monday, December 19, 2022

LPL Financial Research Outlook 2023: Finding Balance . Through all the challenges, newfound opportunities, and every high and low we’ve experienced during the last couple of years, it’s no surprise why we might be striving for...

Friday, December 9, 2022

It's nice to own stocks, bonds, and other investments until it's time to fill out your federal income tax return.  At that point, you may be left scratching your head. Just how do you report your investments and how are they taxed?

Tuesday, October 25, 2022

A successful investor maximizes gain and minimizes loss. Though there can be no guarantee that any investment strategy will be successful and all investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal, here are six basic...

Wednesday, October 12, 2022

Risk management is a key component in any successful business plan. In today's world — where data breaches are common occurrences — it's especially important for business owners to understand the digital risks they...

Thursday, September 15, 2022

Whether you're seeking to manage your own assets, control how your assets are distributed after your death, or plan for incapacity, trusts can help you accomplish your estate planning goals. Their power is in their versatility —...

Tuesday, August 23, 2022

I’m hearing a lot of mixed messages these days about the economy. Some headlines say we’re already in a recession; some say one is looming. Others hint that we’ll avoid a recession and have a soft landing. It makes...

Wednesday, August 17, 2022

You've worked hard over the years to accumulate wealth, and you probably find it comforting to know that the assets you leave behind after your death will continue to be a source of support for your family, friends and important ones...

Thursday, May 19, 2022

When choosing a dog, you must consider your lifestyle and explore different dog breeds for seniors that are a good fit. This article covers dog breeds for seniors that compliment active and quiet lifestyles.

Thursday, April 21, 2022

This article provides ideas for quick vacation destinations for busy seniors so you can enjoy travel and downtime in retirement. Whether you work part-time or volunteer, you can escape your daily routine and enjoy these quick getaways.

Thursday, April 14, 2022

Thursday, April 7, 2022

Updated life expectancy tables have been released by the IRS. This will have an impact on those currently taking required minimum distributions on inherited IRA's, as well as those who haven't yet reached their RMD age.

Thursday, March 17, 2022

This article provides an overview on how retirees can become mentors and what “responsibilities” come when you decide to take on this role. The knowledge, life lessons, and empowerment your mentee receives can be life changing for them.

Tuesday, March 8, 2022

This is a tough time for everyone as compassionate human beings and as investors. Russia’s aggression is unsettling and the images of the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine are disheartening.

Thursday, March 3, 2022

Investment accounts were secured by SIPC insurance. The same could be said about FDIC-insured bank accounts. And, if you spotted a fraudulent charge on your credit card, all that was required was a quick phone call to the number on the back

Thursday, February 24, 2022

With tensions running high in Eastern Europe, we’ve had many questions come in asking what could happen to stocks if Russia indeed did attack or invade Ukraine.

Thursday, February 17, 2022

This article provides retirement planning tips for single women that have the potential to help you save enough to retire. Because, as a woman retiring alone, you’ve only got one income to count on, so you must prepare for that.

Thursday, February 10, 2022

One way to address stress is to take positive action by conducting a year-end review of your financial plan. That may not sound like it will reduce your stress but taking control of something you can control may really help. You’ll be able

Tuesday, February 1, 2022

It is essential that retirees keep up to date on the latest rules and regulations regarding both Medicare and Social Security to ensure that they are getting the most out of the benefits they have earned.

Thursday, January 27, 2022

The beginning of a new year is the perfect time for us to have a conversation about the various factors that can influence your planning.

Thursday, January 20, 2022

A fair number of Americans have adopted vegetarian, vegan, and various other versions of plant-based diets only to discover they missed eating meat. A 2020 Packaged Facts survey of Americans reported that...

Thursday, January 13, 2022

Thursday, January 6, 2022

Thursday, December 16, 2021

Thursday, December 2, 2021

5 Year-End Strategies for Charitable Giving With these year-end giving strategies, you can make charitable donations in ways that are most beneficial to your financial situation. Many people have charitable inclinations, however, they...

Thursday, November 18, 2021

If you are a business owner, these 2021 tax planning tips for businesses will help you prepare for the upcoming tax filing date. There are only a few more months left this year to prepare and perhaps minimize your income tax liability...

Thursday, November 4, 2021

As this year draws to an end, it’s time to think about your income taxes due on April 15. Impacts of the lingering coronavirus pandemic afforded many Americans temporary financial relief in some areas. But these emergency...

Thursday, October 21, 2021

We are two years into a pandemic we hoped would not last long, and Americans continue to face challenges presented by COVID-19. As variants have mutated, so have its life-changing impacts on our health, wealth, and well-being. To top...

Thursday, October 7, 2021

As it goes within political wheelings-and-dealings, there have been changes to some initial provisions in Biden’s infrastructure bill. Keep in mind, our lawmakers are still hammering out additional details and provisions, and we...

Thursday, September 16, 2021

There are many pros of retiring early, but the top perks are considerable: no hectic work schedule; the ability to vacation when you want to; time freedom to have fun with your spouse, children, and grandchildren. If you’ve...

Thursday, September 2, 2021

Every year, the Social Security Administration reviews pertinent data to determine potential changes in the amount of monthly benefit payouts to recipients. In simple terms, these cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) are based on...

Thursday, August 19, 2021

Roth IRA conversions have the potential to present big benefits in retirement planning, especially if you anticipate being in a higher tax bracket in retirement than you are now. However, this strategy may not be beneficial to...

Thursday, August 5, 2021

It’s not unusual for Americans to see a flurry of legislation changes after a presidential election when one party replaces the last in a new administration. This year is no exception. We are almost eight months into President...

Thursday, July 15, 2021

As you already know, retirement is a new phase of life that will understandably require some adjustment. There are countless books and articles written on this topic every day. For example, our blog is a great resource for learning...

Thursday, July 1, 2021

People commonly call IRAs they inherit an “inherited IRA.” However, an inherited IRA is an account most beneficiaries open to move funds into from an IRA or 401(k) left to them by a loved one or a friend. In times past,...

Thursday, June 17, 2021

Like getting married or having children, retirement is a new phase of life that will obviously require some adjustment. This is especially true if you and your spouse both work and decide to retire together—at the same time....

Thursday, June 3, 2021

What happens to your online accounts when you are no longer able to sustain them? Retirement planning, estate planning, and heritage planning are familiar lifecycle topics. But in light of today’s automated world, one’s...

Thursday, May 20, 2021

The Investment Company Institute reports that at the end of 2020, retirement market assets in the United States totaled $34.9 trillion. Collectively, that’s a large number. But there are a great many Americans who are unsure if...

Thursday, May 6, 2021

Reaching retirement is a monumental life goal. As a wonderful reward for many years of hard work, you can now see those retirement dreams come true and set new and exciting goals. Whether your dreams and goals include consulting,...

Thursday, April 15, 2021

Last year the federal government implemented legislation within the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act that included more than a few generous income tax provisions structured to provide financial relief to...

Thursday, April 1, 2021

According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the top three fraudulent scams of 2020 were:imposter scams that include people posing as official governmental workers, friends or family, and legitimate businesses in order to gain...

Thursday, March 18, 2021

Whether they have to or because they want to, many retirees continue to work in retirement. Some need to supplement retirement income. Others just enjoy the daily structure, social interaction, and purpose a job provides. There are...

Thursday, February 18, 2021

The coronavirus pandemic has impacted everyone, regardless of our age group. Whether we realize it or not, we’ve probably all experienced the pandemic blues. We are unable to socialize like we used to; we have lost loved ones;...

Thursday, February 4, 2021

Some people are unaware that Social Security income is subject to tax. But a portion of it is and understanding how that income is taxed is a crucial part of successful financial planning in retirement—especially since you live...

Thursday, January 21, 2021

Volunteering for your local nonprofits is a wonderful way for retirees to live influential lives by sharing talents, helping others, starting new hobbies, or presenting ways to stay engaged with people. However, the current COVID-19...

Thursday, January 7, 2021

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, along with the CARES Act assistance made available to Americans in 2020, you may have incurred certain tax implications that you haven’t considered. This may very well be the year you enlist the...

Thursday, December 17, 2020

Retirement benefits are numerous. From finding new hobbies to enjoy to being able to spend more time helping others to having the time to travel, retirement is typically considered a more relaxing and less stressful time in our lives....

Thursday, December 3, 2020

When you begin gathering information you need to file your income taxes, there 2020 tax-planning strategies you should know. And, you definitely want to make the most of how the CARES Act impacts your tax planning and potential...

Wednesday, November 11, 2020

If you are depending at all on Social Security to help support you when you retire, even as supplemental income, there are a few things you need to know. You are probably aware that Social Security is in danger of becoming deficient or...

Thursday, October 22, 2020

A living trust is a smart estate-planning strategy that enables you to fully organize your finances, assets, and wishes before you die. A will does much of the same, but living trusts offer a faster and streamlined transfer of assets...

Thursday, October 8, 2020

When your adult children ask for help during tough financial times, curtailing your natural parental instinct to fix everything can be difficult. But if not careful, financially assisting your adult children could interfere with your...

Thursday, September 24, 2020

It’s no big secret that the solvency of Social Security benefits has been on shaky ground for quite a while. The last time we saw reform was in 1983 when Ronald Regan was president. That reform was designed to preserve and...

Thursday, September 10, 2020

Rest and relaxation are likely the first two words that come to mind when you think about retirement living. Afterall, traveling and spending more time with family are some of the most enjoyable perks of retirement. While these are...

Thursday, August 27, 2020

Children learn from their parents in multiple ways. They learn by observing, following an example, and receiving feedback or advice. However, many children often learn by experimenting and making mistakes—a natural part of...

Thursday, August 13, 2020

Typically, you must be over 59 ½, to withdraw funds from your retirement plan without paying an early withdrawal penalty. But, the government has relaxed the rules a bit to help Americans during the coronavirus pandemic. The...

Thursday, July 23, 2020

Roth IRAs and traditional IRAs are popular individual retirement arrangements that have similar and different benefits. Traditional IRAs offer tax-deferred savings. Roth IRAs offer tax-free growth and tax-free distributions provided...

Thursday, July 9, 2020

Our post-COVID economy is not making retirement planning easier. Thanks to stock market volatility and an uncertain economy, millions of job losses, and the threat of the pandemic spreading—many Americans are facing tough...

Monday, June 29, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetA jump in COVID-19 cases dampened investor enthusiasm last week, sending stock prices lower on worries that rising infections could derail the economic recovery. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slumped 3.31%,...

Thursday, June 25, 2020

When you retire, you’ll finally have the freedom to be your own boss, to live where you want, and to do what you want. But, believe it or not, transitioning into retirement can be stressful. We recommend you consider retirement...

Monday, June 22, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetStocks moved higher last week on news of more Federal Reserve market support and diminished concerns that new COVID-19 cases might lead to another economic shutdown. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.04%,...

Monday, June 15, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetInvestor sentiment turned negative last week, amid an increasing number of COVID-19 cases in states where reopening has been underway as well as a subdued economic forecast from the Federal Reserve. The Dow Jones...

Thursday, June 11, 2020

These tips apply to single retirees regardless of what’s going on in the world. Loneliness and isolation are often experienced by retirees leaving the workforce. But, until more is known about this virus, below are tips for...

Monday, June 8, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetA positive jobs report sent stocks soaring last Friday, capping a solid week as evidence of a global economic recovery outweighed concerns over civil unrest and tensions with China.The Dow Jones Industrial...

Monday, June 1, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetThe shortened week, which began with a powerful two-day rally of trading, was enough to drive the markets into another week of solid gains. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 3.75%, while the Standard &...

Monday, June 1, 2020

As we know, college students who finance their education with student loans can expect to be saddled with debt for years to come. Facing that debt is a deterrent for teens who want higher education but can’t afford it on their...

Tuesday, May 26, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetUpbeat comments by the Federal Reserve Chairman and more signs of an economic turnaround combined to help fuel a powerful rally in the stock market last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 3.29%, while...

Monday, May 18, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetStocks drifted lower last week, weighed down by Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell's unsettling comments on the economy and signs of renewed tensions with China.The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 2.65%,...

Thursday, May 14, 2020

If something happened to you tomorrow—where would that leave your minor children? That’s a heart-stopping question, and we mean for it to be. Here are a few more: Who will they live with? Is there enough money for their...

Monday, May 11, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetDespite a historic downturn in employment, stocks managed to climb higher last week as investors were emboldened by the pace of economic re-openings, both here and abroad.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 2...

Monday, May 4, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetStock prices ended the week slightly lower, despite news of positive results from a test trial of a COVID-19 drug treatment and several states easing their economic lockdowns. The Dow Jones Industrial Average...

Monday, April 27, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetStock prices bounced around last week as investors reacted to wild swings in the price of oil and reports that called into question the efficacy of two potential virus treatments.The Dow Jones Industrial Average...

Thursday, April 23, 2020

The Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act passed in late 2019, providing many different ways to help Americans save for retirement. But, one not-so-helpful provision is the elimination of the stretch IRA...

Monday, April 20, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetStock prices pushed higher last week as news of a White House plan to reopen the economy and reports of a potential COVID-19 treatment helped the market overcome weak economic data and an ugly start to the...

Monday, April 13, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetThe stock market staged a broad rally this week, buoyed by the prospect that COVID-19's grip on the nation may be easing and news of another Federal Reserve program to help stabilize businesses.The Dow Jones...

Monday, April 6, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetModest declines in stock prices this week masked the volatile inter- and intraday price swings as investors digested poor economic data and a warning from the president that the worst days of the COVID-19...

Thursday, April 2, 2020

The Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act delivers some impressive features for small businesses and their employees moving forward. If you fall into either category, here’s what you need to know...

Monday, March 30, 2020

An open-ended commitment by the Federal Reserve to support American businesses and capital markets along with the passage of a $2 trillion aid package improved investor sentiment and drove a strong rally in stock prices. The Dow Jones...

Monday, March 23, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetThe stock market suffered through another volatile week as it wrestled with the health and economic fallout of the domestic spread of the coronavirus. Swift and decisive actions by the Federal Reserve and policy...

Thursday, March 19, 2020

The Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act passed in December 2019, implementing extensive changes to retirement planning and saving. Two of those changes impact traditional IRA contributions and required...

Monday, March 16, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetMarkets remained exceptionally volatile, buffeted by the spreading impact of coronavirus, uncertain responses from federal policymakers, and the sudden drop in oil prices.The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 10...

Thursday, March 12, 2020

Anyone who’s tried to get a loan or credit card understands the importance of a good credit score. If you are a college student or a young adult, this can be tricky. You have your whole life to build a great credit history, yet...

Monday, March 9, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetHeightened coronavirus fears, falling yields, and Super Tuesday primary results sent stocks on a rollercoaster ride of sharp price swings, leaving stocks marginally higher for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial...

Monday, March 2, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetStocks fell sharply last week as Wall Street considered how the coronavirus outbreak might influence global business activity and household spending.The selloff became a correction for the U.S. markets. The S&P...

Thursday, February 27, 2020

From increasing deductibles and premiums, to new plans and plans that are no longer available, there are many Medicare changes in 2020. Most people are familiar with Medicare Parts A, B, and D. Part A covers hospital stays, skilled...

Monday, February 24, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetTraders paid close attention to coronavirus developments and earnings last week, while wondering how the former might eventually impact the latter. Concern over updated infection numbers moderated risk appetite.A...

Tuesday, February 18, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetDaily headlines about the coronavirus had little impact on stock market averages last week. Earnings and mergers had more influence. All three Wall Street benchmarks improved. The Nasdaq Composite rose 2.21%,...

Thursday, February 13, 2020

Do you dream of retirement and the days when you can relax and travel? You’ve worked the majority of your life, maybe raised a family, and your desire of travel and seeing the sites got lost in life’s shuffle. Well,...

Monday, February 10, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetStocks advanced four days out of five during the past market week, erasing the losses of the week before. The Nasdaq Composite surged 4.04%, the S&P 500 3.17%, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average 3.00%. Foreign...

Monday, February 3, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetStock benchmarks declined for a second straight week as coronavirus news tempered risk appetite.The S&P 500 fell 2.14% on the week. The Nasdaq Composite dipped 1.76%, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average, 2.55%....

Monday, January 27, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetStock prices fell last week as investors considered the potential health and economic risks of the flu-like coronavirus.Foreign stock markets, as tracked by the broad MSCI EAFE index, fell 1.03% for the week....

Thursday, January 23, 2020

Are you one of many Americans who look forward to income tax refunds this time of year? Lots of people do and even count on that money to help with their finances. But you should be aware of fraudulent activity that can affect that...

Tuesday, January 21, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetTraders were in an upbeat mood last week, reacting to news out of Washington: the signing of the phase-one trade deal between the U.S. and China as well as the Senate passage of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement...

Tuesday, January 14, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetThe market had a choppy five days, with traders reacting to geopolitical developments and weaker-than-expected jobs data. Even so, the three major U.S. equity indices posted weekly gains and continued their...

Thursday, January 9, 2020

The year 2020 marks a historic precedent in terms of Social Security payments. For the first time since trust funds were established in 1983, Social Security payments will exceed more in this year than the funds accumulate. While this...

Monday, January 6, 2020

The Week on Wall Street Stocks descended from record highs Friday, as traders reacted to a U.S. drone strike that killed Iran's top military officer. Oil prices rose more than 3% following the breaking news.[1] Wall Street benchmarks...

Thursday, December 26, 2019

There are several monumental milestones we look forward to in life. Growing up, getting married, having a baby, finding our dream job…and then enjoying our golden years. Retirement should be everything you dream of, and more! So...

Thursday, December 12, 2019

Spousal benefits for Social Security are allowed for current and ex-spouses (provided you were married for more than ten years before divorce). The amount you’re entitled to depends on a few factors, such as the work history of...

Thursday, November 28, 2019

Traditionally, November is the time of year people reflect on things they’re thankful for. You may see gratitude challenges on social media encouraging you to list something that you’re grateful for every day for the month....

Thursday, November 14, 2019

In case the SECURE Act passes Congress, we could be facing the elimination of the stretch IRA. But, there are a few maneuvers people can make to continue to protect their wealth and pass it down to their children. The proposed...

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

What do you really know about your future spouse? Are they a spender or a saver? Do you both have the same goals? Do they want to buy a house or rent, and which would you prefer? How much debt do you both bring to the table? How about...

Thursday, October 10, 2019

From basic activities to the bucket lists of the rich and famous, adult summer camps are designed with everyone in mind. Adults can have fun, learn new skills and hobbies, visit places they’ve never been and forge new friendships...

Thursday, September 26, 2019

When looking for a new home and especially if you’re relocating, a lot of questions come into play. Do you want to be close to your job? What’s the best school district for the kids? Two-story with a pool or sprawling...

Tuesday, September 17, 2019

Medicare parts A and B provide basic healthcare coverage for Americans 65 and older, but as we know, that coverage does not pay all the bills. Hospital stays or major illnesses can bring about ridiculously large deductibles, co-pays,...

Thursday, September 12, 2019

Okay, so now you’re retired! What are you going to do? If you are like many Americans, perhaps you plan to embark on your dream of traveling across the globe. But, as exciting as this can be, there are a few things you need to...

Thursday, August 22, 2019

Most Americans have heard of 401(k) retirement plans. These are typically employer-sponsored plans that allow pre-tax contributions by the employee along with employer contribution or a profit-sharing feature. However, if you are a...

Thursday, August 8, 2019

Prenups and trusts are two distinct tools that offer protection in the event of a divorce. Now, no one wants to think about divorce when you’re getting married. But, in the same breath and especially if you already have children,...

Thursday, July 25, 2019

So, you made it to retirement! Life is smooth sailing from here on out, right? This is the era of your life you’ve been diligently working towards since you got your first job. Now you have exited the stage of 9 to 5 employment,...

Thursday, July 11, 2019

The IRS allows individuals aged 50 and older to make catch-up contributions to retirement plans. These are set amounts you can contribute above and beyond the annual contribution or elective deferral amount your plan allows each year....

Thursday, June 27, 2019

Retirement is something many adults look forward to most of their lives. They work and raise their children and dutifully sock away income for retirement, anticipating one day living out the dream of their golden years. However,...

Thursday, June 13, 2019

Did you know the IRS has provisions to their 10 percent early-withdrawal rule for IRAs? Yes, it’s true! You don’t have to pay that penalty if you withdraw funds for specific reasons before you turn 59 ½ years old. Of...

Thursday, May 23, 2019

These days, many of us are more aware of the benefits of exercise than older generations were. Seriously, how many of your Baby-Boomer (1946-1964) or Silent Generation (born before 1945) parents and grandparents went jogging regularly,...

Thursday, May 9, 2019

Most parents are a source of stability for their children throughout their lives. But, as time goes on, roles begin to shift, and often, parents are the ones who need assistance. This is a difficult transition, especially if the adult...

Thursday, April 25, 2019

Teenagers have a lot on their minds these days. Getting summer jobs, buying their first car, social media stress, peer pressure, SAT scores, college credits, retirement. Wait—retirement? It’s safe to say that retirement is...

Thursday, April 11, 2019

Whether you’re new to Medicare or have been with the program for a while, it’s important to know how it works and what options are available to you. The federal insurance program has undergone many changes over the years,...

Thursday, March 28, 2019

Depending on where you live and how your contributions stack up at the end of the year, you may be able to claim a tax credit if you contribute to a 529 plan. If you’re considering opening one to save for your child’s (or...

Thursday, March 14, 2019

There are many investors who play the game of market timing. Perhaps they enjoy trying to time their exit from the S & P “just right” to avoid losses. Or, maybe they believe avoiding those losses is better than missing out...

Thursday, February 28, 2019

Saving for your retirement can be tricky business and taking distributions from your retirement accounts can be even trickier. You must understand how required minimum distributions (RMDs) work so when you reach the age of 70 ½,...

Thursday, February 14, 2019

If you haven’t started already—you had better get moving, especially if you don’t want to file an extension on reporting your income taxes for 2018. Below are dates and other important items to help you complete any...

Thursday, January 24, 2019

It’s that time of year again—the time when you should take stock of your retirement portfolio to ensure you’re on the right track to retire comfortably. Below are four tips to help you build more wealth in your...

Thursday, January 10, 2019

We want it all. We want that house on the rolling hill behind the white picket fence. Or maybe some of us want the penthouse on or around Park Avenue. How about that fast, sporty car? Frequent vacations to foreign lands? More time to...

Thursday, December 27, 2018

The Tax and Jobs Cut Act presented sweeping changes, introducing benefits to all classes of Americans. Below are some of the most important tax law provisions you should be aware of as we enter the 2018 tax reporting season. Some of...

Thursday, December 13, 2018

Health savings accounts (HSAs) are highly underrated and underused, in our opinion. Many people don’t understand the significant impact these accounts have on offsetting retirement income, as well as the long-term investing...

Thursday, November 29, 2018

Baby boomers are still bouncing back from the 2008 financial crisis, along with being victims of the switch from defined benefit pension plans to 401(k)s, which ultimately led to insufficient contributions and proper growth in their...

Thursday, November 8, 2018

Getting divorced is never easy. Dividing assets is not fun. And, one of the largest assets many married couples have is their 401(k)—which can be tricky to divide because the rules for doing so are complex. The division of these...

Thursday, October 25, 2018

Tax season is right around the corner, which means many people are seeking ways to reduce their tax liability. In the past, charitable donations were a popular avenue to make this happen. However, with the new tax law provisions,...

Thursday, October 11, 2018

Prepping Your Financial House for Income Tax Season It may only be October, but tax season is just around the corner. Time flies when you’re having fun (and even when you’re not!), but don’t let April 15 sneak up on...

Thursday, September 27, 2018

If you plan to pay for your child’s college education, chances are you know what a 529 plan is. What you may not know is that you can also use a Roth IRA for college savings. There are significant pros and cons of each savings...

Thursday, September 13, 2018

Roth IRAs are a powerful investing tool many individuals favor to save for retirement. Thanks to the Tax and Jobs Act of 2017, the income limits for eligibility have been expanded, allowing more savers to own and convert to Roth IRAs....

Thursday, August 23, 2018

The Tax and Jobs Act of 2017 delivered some pretty significant changes regarding Roth IRA conversions. The Roth IRA as an investing vehicle is attractive thanks to the tax advantaged savings it provides. The fact that funds could be...

Thursday, August 9, 2018

There are quite a number of savvy individuals in the financial world who are well-equipped to help you navigate your own financial realm. Some of these professionals have carved out a selective niche, others enjoy diving into your...

Thursday, July 26, 2018

The term “financial professional” is a broad designation that encompasses a certain class of people who are qualified to oversee your finances. Simple definition, right? But, what’s complex for some is determining why...

Thursday, July 12, 2018

While we are all aware that we must continue paying income taxes when we retire, some people fail to fully calculate those pesky little (or big) expenses into their budgets. Especially without a trusted wealth planner or savvy CPA on...

Thursday, June 21, 2018

Chances are you cleverly crafted your estate. You worked hard to ensure your wills and trusts were set up properly to suit your personal needs in the now, as well as the desires for your heirs when you pass. Because it can be a...

Thursday, June 7, 2018

In a world of ever-changing healthcare options (or lack thereof), navigating Medicare is confusing for most. If you plan to work past the age of 65, you should clearly understand how Medicare works and enroll when required to. There...

Thursday, May 24, 2018

There are many tax reforms that have come into play in 2018 since the Tax Cut and Jobs Act of 2017 (TCJA) took effect. Perhaps a few of the most exciting are provisions regarding 529 education savings accounts (ESAs). ESAs are an...

Thursday, May 10, 2018

Many divorces are complicated and so is understanding how Social Security benefits work after divorce. Except, it’s actually pretty cut and dry: By law, those benefits are not included in the settlement. The fact that Social...

Thursday, April 26, 2018

There are many different ways financial professionals advise you to create a retirement budget. In fact, experts recommend helpful lists that contain from 5 to about 100 categories (seriously) that you can use to find your magic number...

Thursday, April 12, 2018

Have you ever heard of second quarter financial resolutions? Maybe you have and maybe you haven’t, but either way, we’re going to explain. Because, remember those New Year’s resolutions you made a few months ago? You...