Blog
Celebrating Earth Day
Each spring, a particular holiday reminds us that we need to care about the planet every day. April 22 is Earth Day, an occasion to think about the land, the rivers, the lakes, the oceans, the air, and what we can do on their behalf....
Read MoreExamining The National Debt & Budget Deficit
We strive to keep you regularly updated with important information and news.Please find an informative whitepaper from Phil Blancato, Osaic’s Chief Market Strategist, attached below. This paper provides research, analysis, and...
Read More5 Reasons Why Women Need to Invest
Despite progress toward financial planning and saving, women often face challenges regarding their financial security. These challenges can include more time away from the workforce (often caring for children or for parents), the...
Read MoreYour Wealth Is Waiting
Are you waiting to invest until you have more funds to work with? Don’t wait! The size of your portfolio 20, 30, or 40 years from now won’t reflect the dollar amount you start with today; rather, it will almost entirely rely on the...
Read MoreSaving vs investing: Two Very Different Things!
Many people believe investing and saving are the same thing, but they’re definitely not. Though they are often used interchangeably, it’s essential to understand their unique differences and how properly understanding these two words...
Read MoreShow All
To Spend or Invest... That is the Question!
When asked why they haven’t committed to investing for the future, many folks use a common excuse: they don’t have extra money to invest. However, if you want to start investing but don’t have money saved, implementing minor spending...
Read MoreLast Minute Tips Before Tax Day
Fewer things are more reliable than Tax Day, even if the deadline has shifted around a bit in recent years. This year, it’s April 15th for most taxpayers, and recent legislation changes include substantial increases to standard...
Read More8 Ways to Protect Yourself Online
January 28 is Data Privacy Day, an internationally recognized day to empower companies and individuals to discuss and implement ways to safeguard data and respect online privacy. In other words, it's an excellent excuse to get your...
Read MoreCelebrate Financial Wellness Month
With the hustle and bustle of the holidays behind us, it’s a great time to mention that January is Financial Wellness Month. How should you observe this ‘holiday’? Consider it a reminder to prioritize and pay closer attention to your...
Read MoreHow You Can Protect Your Parent From Fraud
When you were young, your parent most likely warned you not to trust strangers. As your parent grows older, it's time to return the favor. Seniors are frequent targets for financial scams, and many have considerable assets and...
Read MoreYear-End Financial Strategies
As we approach the end of the year, it’s an opportune time to review and optimize your financial and tax strategies. Here are some key considerations: 1. Tax-Advantaged Accounts: Contribute fully to retirement accounts, including any...
Read MoreNot all Debt is Created Equal
When we meet with clients to determine the most efficient ways to maximize retirement savings, it’s not unusual for us to come across debt in their portfolio. This always prompts the million dollar question, “Is it better to use my...
Read MoreReady for Medicare Open Enrollment?
Medicare’s annual open enrollment period began on October 15 and ends December 7. During this time, current Medicare beneficiaries have the option to adjust their coverage for the coming year. Any changes to your plan will go into...
Read MoreMedicare & Long Term Care – Working Together
While it may be hard to think of now, it’s likely you’ll need some type of healthcare or daily living assistance as you age. People often believe that Medicare covers long-term care (provided either at home or in a nursing facility)....
Read MoreMaking the Most of Medicare
For years, you (and your spouse, if you have one) have been contributing to Medicare. Now, the time is approaching when you can finally reap the rewards. For most people, aging comes naturally. Unfortunately, what doesn’t come...
Read MoreSeptember is Life Insurance Awareness Month
Life is an amazing journey full of challenges and triumphs. No matter where you are on the journey, preparing can be a key part of success. That’s why we are happy to remind you that September is Life Insurance Awareness Month. Life...
Read MoreDeciphering the Murky Realm of Investment Terms
If you’re new to investing, you’re discovering the vast and diverse vocabulary of financial terms, tools, and acronyms used in the financial world. It can feel overwhelming to make sense of them all. To help you navigate this complex...
Read MoreTax Deferred Retirement Accounts vs Taxable Brokerage
Are the restrictions inherent with tax deferred retirement accounts worth it compared to freedom of investing in a taxable brokerage account? This is a question I posed using Copilot AI. The answer is pretty good, I think. At the end...
Read MoreA Retirement Plan Isn’t a Luxury – It’s a Necessity
As a small business owner, you’re always looking to attract and retain top talent. One of the most effective ways to do this is by offering a retirement plan. Not only does this provide your employees with a competitive benefits...
Read MoreHappy Older Americans Month
May is a month to celebrate the older Americans in our country and honor their lives and the accomplishments they still have ahead of them. Older Americans Month was established in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy to bring awareness...
Read MorePreparing Your Business for Crisis
One thing we all learned throughout the Covid pandemic is that life is unpredictable. That's why it's essential to have a documented Business Continuity Plan (BCP) in place to help your company stay afloat during unexpected times of...
Read MoreWhy You Should Stay the Course
In light of recent events which have significantly impacted the markets, we wanted to proactively reach out and remind you that we’re here to support you as we navigate these times of uncertainty. Knowledge is power, and we’re...
Read MoreExamining The National Debt & Budget Deficit
We strive to keep you regularly updated with important information and news. Please find an informative whitepaper from Phil Blancato, Osaic’s Chief Market Strategist, attached below. This paper provides research, analysis, and...
Read MoreLiberation Day
We strive to keep you regularly updated with important information and news. Please find an informative whitepaper from Phil Blancato, Osaic’s Chief Market Strategist, attached below. This paper provides research, analysis, and...
Read MoreApril Is Financial Literacy Month
April marks the start of Financial Literacy Month, a nationally recognized movement to promote and support financial understanding in children and teens. For many, it's a fantastic opportunity to teach and connect with their children...
Read MoreYou Can Celebrate Retirement Stress-Free
Congratulations on your recent retirement! You’ve devoted a lifetime to accumulating wealth, and now the focus has abruptly shifted to spending it. Naturally, many new retirees aren’t quite sure what that transition (from earner/saver...
Read MoreBuilding a Nest Egg for Two
Whether you’re a newlywed or have celebrated many anniversaries, you already know you can accomplish more working together towards the same goal. The same goes with retirement savings. Both spouses can and should be involved in...
Read MoreA History of Tariffs
We strive to keep you regularly updated with important information and news. Please find an informative whitepaper from Phil Blancato, Osaic’s Chief Market Strategist, attached below. This paper provides research, analysis, and...
Read MoreThe Pros and Cons to an Inherited IRA Lump Sum Payout
Sometimes a beneficiary’s financial situation makes cashing out all of the money in one lump sum stand out from the alternatives. Transfer the funds to your existing account (spouses only). Transfer the funds to an Inherited IRA. Take...
Read MoreWhere Should You Put Your Money? It Depends.
Clients and friends ask all the time where they should put their money. That’s a great question, and it would be even better if there were a one-size-fits-all answer. Unfortunately, though, market performance is fickle. The same funds...
Read MoreHealth Savings Accounts for Today and Your Retirement Years
Suppose you are covered by a high-deductible health plan (HDHP) and not contributing to a health savings account (HSA). In that case, you are missing out on a great way to cover your healthcare expenses. HSAs allow you to save money...
Read MoreSuper Catch-Ups for 2025
Are you in your early sixties and hoping to make a splash in your retirement strategy? The SECURE Act 2.0 introduced a $11,250 catch-up contribution for those aged 60-63. This “super catch-up” is part of a new tiered catch-up...
Read MoreWhat will 2025 hold?
With 2024 coming to a close, I want to share my thoughts on America's current fiscal policy, geopolitical elements, and other factors that may help shape 2025's financial landscape. This transition period offers both challenges and...
Read MoreGuess the 5 Most Forgotten Retirement Expenses?
The secret to financial independence starts and ends with a good budget. I can’t stress this enough. You may or may not be aware of how much your budget will change from your earning years to your active retirement ones. Will yours go...
Read More3 Ways to Set Goals You’ll Keep
The new year is an opportunity for new beginnings – including setting new goals! Wheth. . er big or small, setting resolutions can help create a path to greater happiness and freedom. Here’s the thing – setting and keeping resolutions...
Read MoreResolutions That Save You Money And Stick!
With the new year comes the annual tradition of setting a resolution. We’re sure you won’t be surprised to hear that we are in favor of resolutions that change your financial habits for the better. Here are a couple of financial...
Read MoreMedicare & Long Term Care – Working Together
While it may be hard to think of now, it’s likely you’ll need some type of healthcare or daily living assistance as you age. People often believe that Medicare covers long-term care (provided either at home or in a nursing facility)....
Read MoreCaregiver Readiness… Are You Prepared?
There are lots of positives to adulthood. You make your own money, you make your own rules, and you make your own decisions. But with freedom comes responsibility, and one of those responsibilities is making plans for the future....
Read More6 Tips for Philanthropic Giving
Did you know… with thoughtful, advanced planning, you can extend your legacy of charitable giving beyond your lifetime, creating lasting benefits for the organizations you care about? And if you have a desire to give back to society...
Read MoreAre You Getting the Most Out of Giving?
Making charitable contributions is a great way to help people in need while maximizing tax benefits, creating a win-win. Donations to qualified 501(c)(3) organizations can shrink taxable income, saving hard-earned cash. Here are four...
Read MoreLong-Term Care Could Save Your Nest Egg
During our working years, many of us have access to an employer-sponsored health insurance plan either through our job or our spouse's job. But when it comes to retirement, we typically rely on Medicare and Medicare supplemental...
Read MoreOpen Enrollment for the Affordable Care Act Health Insurance Marketplace
As a reminder, the 2025 Open Enrollment Period for the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Health Insurance Marketplace is November 1 through January 15, 2025. Anyone looking to enroll, re-enroll, or opt out of private health, vision, and...
Read MoreMedicare 101: Understanding the Basics
One of the biggest decisions to make in retirement is ensuring you have the health care coverage you need, when you need it. Unfortunately, Medicare can be a complicated program to navigate; as you approach the time you can begin...
Read More10 Common (and Costly) Medicare Mistakes
As we age, one consideration that weighs on most people is the cost of healthcare in retirement. While we can’t truly predict the cost, we can take time to educate ourselves about the options or resources available to help pay for...
Read More6 Helpful Tips to Get Started on Your Estate Plan
If you’re wondering if estate planning is right for you, it’s important to know it’s not just for the wealthy. Even people with modest assets need a written plan. And right now, is a great time to take the next step and get started....
Read MoreIt’s Cyber Security Awareness Month!
Every October, the government and the tech industry come together to raise awareness about cyber security. Their goal is to reinforce the proactive role we all need to play in keeping our personal and workplace accounts cyber secure...
Read MoreLife Happens; Be Prepared
One minute you’re tooling down the sidewalk as you scroll through your phone looking for that important text message from yesterday… the next minute, WHAM! You’re broadsided as you absentmindedly step off the curb into the path of...
Read MoreIs Your Retirement Account as Large as it Could Be?
When you change jobs, it’s critical to remember to create a plan for past employee sponsored retirement accounts. While you have the choice to simply leave it, you also have the option to consolidate past plans which brings all funds...
Read MoreSeptember is Life Insurance Awareness Month
Life is an amazing journey full of challenges and triumphs. No matter where you are on the journey, preparing can be a key part of success. That’s why we are happy to remind you that September is Life Insurance Awareness Month. Life...
Read MoreLet's Review Your Life
Life doesn’t stand still. Neither do your life insurance needs. If you have a quote or policy and haven’t reviewed it lately, you may be surprised to discover that what worked for you then may not not meet your needs now. Luckily,...
Read MoreIt’s Time for a Mid-Year Check-In.
With the first half of the year in the rearview mirror, summertime is a great chance to touch base. A mid-year financial review can help to take stock of your accomplishments thus far and uncover any needs for adjustments. It’s...
Read More8 Financial Planning Tips for LGBTQ Couples
LGBTQ+ couples can benefit from financial planning but often have unique circumstances that require specific strategies. Knowing where federal and state laws may impact a financial plan is essential, whether the couple is married or...
Read MoreAge My Way in May
May is a month to celebrate the older Americans in our country and honor their lives and the accomplishments they still have ahead of them. Older Americans Month was established in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy to bring awareness...
Read MoreMedicare and Travel – What to be Aware of
Retirement evokes different dreams for everyone, but for many, travel is part of the image. If travel is part of your retirement vision, before you leave town, it’s important be aware of whether Medicare coverage will protect you...
Read MorePreparing Your Business for Crisis
One thing we all learned throughout the Covid pandemic is that life is unpredictable. That's why it's essential to have a documented Business Continuity Plan (BCP) in place to help your company stay afloat during unexpected times of...
Read MorePreparation Pays for Business Owners
As a business owner, you know the importance of planning ahead. But did you know that 60% of older generation business owners plan to transition their business in the next 10 years, and more than half do not have a formal succession...
Read MoreLearn the Estate Planning Essentials
You’ve worked hard to establish a legacy you can be proud of, one that your family can continue to build upon for years to come. And as you know, a comprehensive estate plan is an essential piece of your financial puzzle. However,...
Read MoreMake Sure Your Beneficiaries Are Up to Date
When you think about the various accounts you possess (insurance, investing, retirement, savings, 529, etc.), are you confident your beneficiary designations on all of those accounts are accurate? Unless you’ve reviewed them recently,...
Read MoreDoes Your Retirement Plan Support Your Employees?
As a business owner, it makes sense to provide employees with a way to save for retirement. When you help your team save for the future, you support their long-term financial goals and retirement readiness. You’re also helping build...
Read MoreApril Is Financial Literacy Month
April marks the start of Financial Literacy Month, a nationally recognized movement to promote and support financial understanding in children and teens. For many, it's a fantastic opportunity to teach and connect with their children...
Read MoreWhere Should You Put Your Money? It Depends.
Clients and friends ask all the time where they should put their money. That’s a great question, and it would be even better if there were a one-size-fits-all answer. Unfortunately, though, market performance is fickle. The same...
Read MoreDaylight Savings – Tips to Spring Forward
The time is here again! Twice a year, we adjust our clocks and disrupt sleeping patterns, work schedules, and the balance of our day. Even though it’s only an hour, springing forward for Daylight Saving Time each March is always...
Read MoreHappy International Women's Day
In 1920, women earned the right to vote. In 1974, single and divorcedwomen were finally able to get a credit card without needing a male cosigner. We’ve come a long way, and this year we are celebrating International...
Read MoreSpring into financial transparency
The time following Valentine's Day has always served as a reminder that Spring is on the way. The days are getting longer, the birds and the bees are doing their thing, and people everywhere are thinking about future travel and...
Read MoreTop Retirement Challenges for Women
One of the biggest financial challenges women often face is preparing for (and saving enough for) retirement. There are numerous reasons why these challenges exist, but through continued awareness and planning, those challenges can be...
Read MoreLast Minute Tips Before Tax Day
Fewer things are more reliable than Tax Day, even if the deadline has shifted around a bit in recent years. This year, it’s April 15th for most taxpayers, and recent legislation changes include substantial increases to...
Read MoreA Retirement Plan Isn’t a Luxury – It’s a Necessity
As a small business owner, you’re always looking to attract and retain top talent. Offering a retirement plan is an excellent way to provide employees with a competitive benefits package while helping them save for the future....
Read More8 Ways to Protect Yourself Online
January 28 is an internationally recognized day to remind us about data privacy. Also known as Data Privacy Day, January 28 aims to empower companies and individuals to discuss and implement ways to safeguard data and respect...
Read MoreMake 2024 Your Best Year Ever
The New Year means taking a new look at your finances. The most important thing is to make sure you feel like you have the cashflow you need to do the things you want to do. So, let’s set some goals this year to build on last...
Read MoreJanuary Is Financial Wellness Month
January is Financial Wellness Month, a time to remind people to make arrangements for their financial strategy. For me, it’s time for me to connect with new clients and discuss their financial situation and aspirations for their...
Read MoreYour Wealth Is Waiting
Are you waiting to invest until you have more funds to work with? Don’t wait! The size of your portfolio 20, 30, or 40 years from now won’t reflect the dollar amount you start with today; rather, it will almost...
Read MoreLong-Term Care Could Save Your Nest Egg
During our working years, many of us have access to an employer-sponsored health insurance plan either through our job or our spouse's job. But when it comes to retirement, we typically rely on Medicare and Medicare supplemental...
Read MoreMemorable Holiday Recipe Ideas!
The holidays are a time of year when we’re inspired to perfect every home-cooked meal to try and capture the magic of the season. But trying out a new recipe mid-holiday could be a recipe for disaster if it’s a flop!...
Read MoreMedicare & Long Term Care – Working Together
While it may be hard to think of now, it’s likely you’ll need some type of healthcare or daily living assistance as you age. People often believe that Medicare covers long-term care (provided either at home or in a nursing...
Read MoreInsurance 101 – What is Long-term Care Insurance?
Long-term care insurance (LTC) is a critical but often overlooked component of retirement planning. Many people think they don’t need LTC because they’ll get Medicare when they retire. But Medicare often...
Read MoreHappy 🎂 Birthday (Now Take Your RMD!)
Happy Birthday! Hitting age 73 is no small feat, and it’s worthy of celebration!! But also please heed this important reminder! At age 73 you will likely need to start taking a Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) from your...
Read More3 Common Myths About Annuities
Annuities have garnered fans and critics over the years and often are the subject of many misconceptions. But, especially in an environment of rising interest rates and high inflation, an annuity might be a great addition to your...
Read MoreSecure Your Credit With a Freeze
As more and more people become dependent on technology, the chance of your finances being attacked through cyberspace is increasing tremendously. And one of the most common and devastating ways this happens is through identity theft...
Read MoreShould Investors Be Worried About Israel/Palestine Conflict?
There’s no denying we live in a world where tragic headlines seem to occur daily. From floods, earthquakes, and devastating wildfires to inflation, political discord, and world hunger, the bad news can be hard to stomach some...
Read MoreSigning Up for Medicare
Turning 65 is the trigger point for most Americans to enroll in Medicare. This milestone birthday sets the stage for your initial enrollment period (IEP), during which you can sign up. Therefore, you need to be aware of dates and...
Read More10 Common (and Costly) Medicare Mistakes
As we age, one consideration that weighs on most people is the cost of healthcare in retirement. While we can’t truly predict the cost, we can take time to educate ourselves about the options or resources available to help pay...
Read MoreIt’s Cyber Security Awareness Month!
Every October, the government and the tech industry come together to raise awareness about cyber security. Their goal is to reinforce the proactive role we all need to play in keeping our personal and workplace accounts cyber secure...
Read MoreThings to Know About Life Insurance
September is Life Insurance Awareness Month, making it a good time to review things you may not know about life insurance, such as: Policies differ widely. Term life insurance pays out a death benefit if you die within the specified...
Read MoreLet's Review Your Life
Life doesn’t stand still. Neither do your life insurance needs. If you have a quote or policy and haven’t reviewed it lately, you may be surprised to discover that what worked for you then may not not meet your needs now....
Read MoreThe Financial Impact of Caring for Those with Dementia
Caring about the health and welfare of loved ones is a daily occurrence for all of us. But as you may already know, caring for someone with dementia can be challenging and emotionally draining. And what is often overlooked is the...
Read MoreYour Wealth Is Waiting
Are you waiting to invest until you have more funds to work with? Don’t wait! The size of your portfolio 20, 30, or 40 years from now won’t reflect the dollar amount you start with today; rather, it will almost...
Read MoreSaving vs investing: Two Very Different Things!
Many people believe investing and saving are the same thing, but they’re definitely not. Though they are often used interchangeably, it’s essential to understand their unique differences and how properly understanding these...
Read MoreDeciphering the Murky Realm of Investment Terms
If you’re new to investing, you’re discovering the vast and diverse vocabulary of financial terms, tools, and acronyms used in the financial world. It can feel time-consuming and overwhelming to make sense of it all. To...
Read More4 Tax-Advantaged College Funding Strategies
You know the old adage, "Nothing in life is certain but death and taxes." Add to that a third certainty: college education costs will continue to outpace inflation. Ouch.There are numerous tax-efficient strategies that could help fund...
Read MoreNot all Debt is Created Equal
When I meet with clients to determine the most efficient ways to maximize retirement savings, it’s not unusual for me to come across debt in their portfolio. This always prompts the million dollar question, “Is it better to...
Read MoreLife Events that Impact your Financial Plan in a Big Way!
When you have a major life event such as getting married, having a child, or buying a home, your financial situation and priorities may change. As your life changes, your financial decisions must stay in line with your goals, values,...
Read MoreStudy: Hobbies Keep You Sharp
Did you know that hobbies can help you live a longer and more fulfilled life? Many scientific studies have found that having a hobby can improve your physical and mental health, keep you sharp on the job, and help your relationships....
Read MoreInflation Math for Today’s Retiree
You may have heard the saying, “inflation hurts savers and benefits borrowers.” The expression suggests that borrowers benefit from inflation because they pay back lenders with dollars worth less than when the money...
Read MoreWall Street Focuses on Debt Ceiling
Would it surprise you to hear that investors have moved past worrying about inflation? They have, at least for now.Wall Street has shifted its attention to Washington’s budget negotiations and how the debt ceiling will be...
Read MoreThoughts on the Debt Ceiling
We strive to keep you regularly updated with important market changes and news.Please find the Market Analysis from Phil Blancato, Advisor Group’s Chief Market Strategist attached below. This update provides an overview of...
Read More3 Investment Terms You Should Know
Even if you’ve been investing for years, the language of investing can sometimes feel confusing. Getting a better grip on investing terminology (which is often a complex combination of legalese, colloquialisms and slang) can help...
Read MoreYou Can Celebrate Your Milestones!
With each season of life, new milestones will impact your budget. However, when you enter your 30s and 40s, these milestones have a much heftier price tag. The sheer costs can be intimidating, whether it's a wedding, a new home, or...
Read MoreAll-American Pastime: Baseball or Investing?
Yankees great Yogi Berra once quipped, “90% of baseball is mental; the other half is physical.”Math aside, Yogi’s point is well-taken: to excel at any sport on a professional level, mental tenacity counts for as much...
Read MoreWomen 🚺 Should Know These 7 Things About Social Security
Did you know… You should start preparing a Social Security Strategy by age 55! Most people don’t even think about Social Security until they’re facing retirement, but it really pays to be informed. There are so many...
Read MoreSECURE 2.0: Key Provisions & Planning Considerations
The SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022 builds on the original SECURE Act legislation, with some of the retirement savings enhancements taking effect this year. Many will be phased in over the next few years. Check out this summary from Putnam...
Read MoreSilicon Valley Bank (SVB) - Update
We strive to keep you regularly updated with important market changes and news.Please find the Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) - Update from Phil Blancato, Advisor Group’s Chief Market Strategist attached below. This update provides...
Read MoreLearn the Estate Planning Essentials
You’ve worked hard to establish a legacy you can be proud of, one that your family can continue to build upon for years to come. And as you know, a comprehensive estate plan is an essential piece of your financial puzzle. However...
Read MoreYou can't time the market, so focus on time IN the market
The dream of a secure retirement, college funding, or a vacation home may be the financial “prize” you’re keeping your eyes on. But it’s hard for investors, even seasoned ones, to stay focused in the face of...
Read MoreCashflow for the Kiddos!
We always hope our clients feel confident discussing money with their families. The truth is, talking about money can be uncomfortable! Where do you begin? What’s the right age? The good news is, it’s never too early to...
Read More5 Questions to Help Determine if a Roth IRA Conversion is Appropriate for You.
Wouldn't it be nice to pay less income tax in retirement? One way is with a tax-advantaged strategy called a Roth IRA conversion. This action can help lower your taxable income later in retirement. A Roth IRA conversion involves...
Read MoreWhat is the Cost of Missing a Market Rebound?
Panic selling is not an investment strategy. Repeat: panic selling is not an investment strategy.Investors who pull the emergency brake and bail out during a market decline almost always lock in a loss on their investments. And if they...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Mixed Results Following Weak Economic Data
Stocks showed mixed results last week as recession fears resurfaced in response to weak economic data and a tepid start to a new corporate earnings season. The Dow Jones Industrial Average skidded 2.70%, while the Standard &...
Read MoreCelebrate Financial Wellness Month
With the hustle and bustle of the holidays behind us, it’s a great time to mention that January is Financial Wellness Month. How should you observe this ‘holiday’? Consider it a reminder to prioritize and pay...
Read MoreWhat is a Backdoor Roth IRA Conversion?
Like it or not, taxes are a way of life. They fund great things like roads, libraries and parks, but nobody wants to pay more than they absolutely have to. We often get questions like, “How can I balance my tax obligations with...
Read More10 Common (and Costly) Medicare Mistakes
As we age, one consideration that weighs on most people is the cost of healthcare in retirement. While we can’t truly predict the cost, we can take time to educate ourselves about the options or resources available to help pay...
Read MoreHow will you pay for college tuition?
Remember when a college education was reasonably priced? In the past 20 years, the cost of college tuition for public universities has risen 165%. College students and their families have been taking on more and more debt, and they are...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Recession Concerns, Fed Talk Keep Stocks Cold
Hawkish comments by the Fed and weak economic data heightened investors’ recession concerns and sent stocks lower last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.66%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 retreated 2.08%. The...
Read MoreWhat's This Talk About a Recession?
In recent weeks, the word recession has started creeping into business news and financial market coverage.Is that cause for alarm or just another attention-grabbing headline? There’s no simple answer.A recession is defined as two...
Read More6 Tips for Philanthropic Giving
Did you know… with thoughtful, advanced planning, you can extend your legacy of charitable giving beyond your lifetime, creating lasting benefits for the organizations you care about? And if you have a desire to give back to...
Read MoreHelpful Info About Midterm Elections & Market Performance
It is hard to believe we are in the midst of yet another election cycle. With inflation soaring, economic growth slowing, and extremely choppy markets, midterm elections seem like an afterthought. But on Tuesday, November 8th, 435...
Read MoreStop Stalling! Get Started on Your Estate Plan.
If you’re wondering if estate planning is right for you, it’s important to know it’s not just for the wealthy. Even people with modest assets need a written plan. And right now is a great time to take the next step...
Read MoreThe Energy Conundrum: An Informative White Paper
The energy topic has been central to many conversations during ongoing market volatility this year, and for a good reason. Oil and natural gas prices have fluctuated widely in recent years. Additionally, nearly every aspect of the...
Read MoreWhy You Should Set Up Your Online Social Security Account
For many of us, Social Security plays an important part in our financial plans for retirement or later stage of life. Even if you’re years away from applying for benefits, there are good reasons to set up your online Social...
Read MoreReady for Medicare Open Enrollment?
Medicare’s annual open enrollment period begins October 15 and ends December 7. During this time, current Medicare beneficiaries have the option to adjust their coverage for the coming year. Any changes to your plan will go into...
Read MoreOptimistic Sign In a Fear-Filled Market?
"Be fearful when others are greedy and greedy when others are fearful," according to legendary investor Warren Buffett.It's a great quote but complex advice to follow, especially in 2022 when stock prices are down double-digits. It...
Read MoreKeeping your eyes on the goal
As the struggle to control COVID-19 drags on, many of us experience periodic fatigue from distancing, negative headlines and future uncertainties. Staying disciplined when weary is difficult but crucial to short-term financial wellness...
Read MoreTime – Not Timing – Is the Best Way to Protect Gains
Good days and bad days are a fact of life in the market. Sometimes it’s up and we celebrate. But when it dips, we worry…and if it tanks, forget it: the first instinct for most of us is panic, and we wonder if we should just...
Read MoreThree Ways the Inflation Act Could Impact You
Have you heard? The Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law on Tuesday, August 16. While the $430 billion package includes many provisions, I thought I’d highlight three key areas where you may benefit the most.Tax credits...
Read MoreThings to Know About Life Insurance
September is Life Insurance Awareness Month, making it a good time to review things you may not know about life insurance, such as:Policies differ widely. Term life insurance pays out a death benefit if you die within the specified...
Read MoreMind Over Markets – A Behavioral Guide to Investing
When market volatility is headline news and account values start to fall, it’s easy to understand why investors get jittery. Even with a boatload of historical data to support us, in times of stress we all struggle to overcome...
Read MoreCan a Disability Derail Your Retirement?
Most of us take for granted our ability to earn an income and save for retirement. What if something happens to you and you can no longer work? Not only would your day-to-day expenses start piling up, but your retirement contributions...
Read More5 Great Finance Blogs
Ever heard of the phrase ‘search cost?’It’s an economic term that refers to the effort, time and money someone spends looking for something they want. The hours you devoted to researching your next car or vacation?...
Read MoreJune 2022: Retirement Readiness
Our newsletter this month features an overview on when to talk to your financial professional about changes in your situation, if your retiree health care coverage goes with you overseas, includes a pre-retirement checklist to...
Read MoreDoes Your Retirement Plan Support Your Employees?
As a business owner, it often makes sense to offer your employees a way to save for their retirement. By helping your team save for the future, you support their long-term financial goals and retirement readiness. You’re also...
Read MoreFather’s Day is June 19th!
It’s hard to believe we’re nearly half-way through 2022! As kids and grandkids finish the school year, it’s surprising how the days seem to get busier in addition to getting longer. As the summer rolls in, so do...
Read MoreHow to Buy I Bonds Direct from the Treasury
With inflation hovering near 40-year highs, some investors are looking for alternative ways to weather the storm. For many, a Series I Savings Bond is just the ticket. I Bonds give investors a rate of return plus inflation protection...
Read MoreHow much retirement savings do you need to live comfortably?
The 4% rule can help a retiree determine how much to withdraw from retirement savings each year.
Read MoreDon't Panic - A Bull Case for Equities
It’s hard to ignore current news about persistent market volatility, and we’re guessing this has resulted in some anxiety about what (if anything) you should be doing. Please be assured that we are actively monitoring the...
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