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How to Pass Wealth to Your Heirs While Minimizing Taxes
Without proper planning, taxes and administrative costs can significantly reduce what your heirs ultimately receive. A thoughtful strategy can help preserve more of your legacy.
Read MoreWhy You Need a Financial Plan for Your 70s, 80s, and Beyond
Your 70s, 80s, and beyond bring new financial considerations that require a thoughtful and updated approach. A solid plan during this stage of life can help protect your assets, support your lifestyle, and provide peace of mind.
Read MoreHow to Reduce Taxes on Your Retirement Withdrawals
After years of saving for retirement, the last thing you want is to lose more of your income to taxes than necessary. With the right strategy, you can keep more of what you have worked so hard to build.
Read MoreWhat to Do With Old 401(k) Accounts When You Change Jobs
A new job presents an exciting step in your career, but it often leaves one important financial question unanswered: What should you do with your old 401(k) account? Many people leave the account where it is, but there may be better options
Read MoreHow to Help Adult Children Without Hurting Your Retirement
The desire to help family is natural. However, it is important to balance your generosity with financial security, especially when retirement years are approaching.
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Why Emergency Funds Matter More Than Ever
An emergency fund is one of the most basic yet powerful tools in your personal financial plan. It will provide stability during unexpected situations and could help you avoid costly financial decisions when life throws a curveball.
Read MoreHow Required Minimum Distributions Can Impact Medicare Premiums and Taxes
For retirees, Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) are an important part of retirement planning, but they can also create unexpected consequences if not managed carefully.
Read MoreThe Risks of DIY Retirement Planning Using Online Calculators
Online retirement calculators have become increasingly popular. While these tools can offer a helpful starting point, relying on them alone to plan your retirement can expose you to significant financial risk.
Read MoreWhat Tax Documents Should You Gather for Your 2025 Tax Return?
Preparing these items ahead of time can help your tax preparer work more efficiently, reduce errors, and potentially uncover valuable tax-saving opportunities.
Read MoreWhy Long Term Strategy Matters More Than Short Term Noise
It is natural for investors to feel uneasy during periods of volatility, but reacting often does more harm than good. A disciplined, long-term strategy remains one of the most reliable ways to build and preserve wealth.
Read MoreUsing Annual Bonuses and Raises Wisely in the New Year
While it can be tempting to spend extra income right away, using these funds thoughtfully can strengthen your financial position and support long-term goals.
Read MoreWhy the Beginning of the Year Is the Best Time to Meet With Your Financial Advisor
Financial planning is not a one-time task. It is an ongoing process that benefits from regular attention. Starting the year with a meeting gives you clarity, direction, and confidence.
Read MoreRetiring Soon? Here’s Why Location Can Make a Big Difference
Affordability is playing a major role in where retirees choose to settle in 2026. The list highlights how living costs vary dramatically across the country and why it matters for your retirement plan. Here are the 12 most affordable places.
Read MoreImportant Updates to 2026 Retirement Plan Contribution Limits
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has increased contribution limits for 401(k) plans and IRAs for the 2026 tax year. These changes give you an extra opportunity to boost your savings and potentially take further advantage of tax benefits.
Read MoreUnderstanding Donor-Advised Funds: A Smart Option for Charitable Giving
A donor-advised fund (often called a DAF) deserves a spot on your radar. This vehicle offers a streamlined approach to philanthropy.
Read MoreHow to Incorporate Charitable Contributions Into Your Financial Plan
When integrated thoughtfully, charitable contributions can create tax advantages, support long-term wealth planning, and leave a lasting legacy.
Read MoreWhat the Rising Cost of Living Means for Your Retirement Plan
Inflation and rising everyday costs have become a major concern for many households. Here’s what increasing living costs may mean for your retirement plan and how to stay ahead of the curve.
Read MoreWhy Fall is a Smart Time to Schedule a Financial Planning Check-In With Your Advisor
Whether you’re fine-tuning for year-end or preparing for the year ahead, a fall financial review can ensure your goals stay on track.
Read More4 Reasons to Review Your Estate Plan Before the Holidays
Your estate plan is more than just a legal document. It is a way to protect your family, provide clarity, and create a lasting legacy. Reviewing it before the year ends ensures that your plan is current and aligned with your future vision.
Read MoreHarvesting Tax Losses Before Year-End
As the end of the year approaches, many investors are looking for strategies to improve their financial position. One approach that can be especially effective is tax-loss harvesting. This strategy involves selling investments that...
Read MoreIs Passive Investing Still Smart in a Changing Market?
Passive investing has grown in popularity over the past two decades, offering investors a cost-effective way to track market performance. Index funds and exchange-traded funds have allowed many to enjoy steady returns with relatively...
Read MoreTop 5 Retirement Risks, and How to Protect Yourself From Them
Without careful planning, common risks can derail even the best-laid plans. Check out these top five retirement risks, along with some useful strategies to protect yourself.
Read MoreFive Year-End Moves That Could Save You Money in Retirement
As the year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to take proactive steps to reduce taxes and strengthen your retirement readiness. Small adjustments now can lead to big savings later.
Read MoreFinancial Lessons From the Changing Seasons: Planning for Life’s Next Chapter
Life moves in seasons, and your financial strategy should evolve alongside them. The fall season is a natural reminder to “take stock.”
Read MoreHow to Turn Your Retirement Accounts into Reliable Income Streams
Once you retire, the challenge becomes turning your savings into income that supports your lifestyle for decades. Thankfully, with a thoughtful strategy, your retirement accounts can provide a stable and reliable cash flow.
Read MorePlanning for Early Retirement: Fantasy or Achievable Goal?
The idea of retiring early sounds like a dream, but for many people, it is an achievable goal with the right planning and commitment.
Read MoreHow to Audit Your Personal Budget Without Feeling Overwhelmed
With a simple, step-by-step approach, you can gain control of your finances and reduce stress about where your money is going.
Read MoreThe Top Retirement Planning Mistakes People Make in Their 50s
With retirement approaching, the financial decisions you make now carry greater weight than ever before.
Read MoreThe Financial Impacts of Big Life Changes
Some of the most emotional life transitions can significantly impact your finances. Preparing for the financial side of these events can help you move forward with confidence and clarity.
Read MoreBuilding Wealth as a Family: Teaching Kids About Money at Every Age
Teaching your children about saving, spending, and investing from a young age sets the foundation for lifelong financial confidence.
Read MoreHow to Reclaim Your Share of $1.6 Trillion in Lost Retirement Money
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, there is approximately $1.6 trillion in forgotten retirement accounts, such as old 401(k)s, left behind due to job changes, company closures, or outdated contact information.
Read MoreHow Much Money Do You Really Need to Retire Comfortably?
While conventional wisdom suggests aiming for 70 to 80 percent of your pre-retirement income, recent findings from the Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI) highlight that many retirees face financial challenges, even with careful plan
Read MoreHow to Create a Retirement Plan That Works for You
Relying on Social Security alone may not offer the income you need for a comfortable retirement. The key is to create a retirement plan that blends Social Security with your savings and investments.
Read MoreThe Pros and Cons of CalSavers for Employers and Employees
Whether you are an employer trying to understand how CalSavers affects your business or an employee weighing whether to stay enrolled, this article outlines the benefits and challenges on both sides.
Read MoreEmployer Responsibilities Under CalSavers: What Business Owners Need to Know
Business owners in California must understand their responsibilities under the CalSavers Retirement Savings Program. While the program is designed to help workers save for the future, it also places specific requirements on employers.
Read MoreWhat Is CalSavers? Understanding California's State-Mandated Retirement Savings Program
Understanding how CalSavers works and what it means for both employers and employees becomes important as the program continues to expand across the state.
Read MoreThe Benefits of Investing Your HSA
When you utilize them wisely, HSAs also offer powerful long-term investment opportunities that can enhance your financial plans and even your retirement strategy.
Read MoreShould You Pay Off Your Mortgage Before Retiring?
While the idea of living mortgage-free is appealing, the right choice for you will ultimately depend on your overall financial picture.
Read MoreUsing a 529 to Save for College: Benefits and Pitfalls
While 529 plans can be a valuable part of your financial strategy, they’re not without their complexities. Here, we review the benefits and potential pitfalls of a 529 plan, so that you can weigh your options and make the decision that work
Read MoreHow to Invest in a Bull Market: Tips for Staying on Track
Despite some volatility in the past month or so, markets eventually trend in an upward direction. When bull markets happen (stock prices rising) opportunities present themselves for investors, but it also requires discipline.
Read MoreUnderstanding the Different Types of Retirement Accounts
Depending on your circumstances, one of these types of accounts will best help you meet your planning needs. Here’s an overview of the most common options:
Read MoreThe Biggest Mistakes People Make When Saving for Retirement
Whether you’re just starting out or nearing retirement, avoiding these common pitfalls can help ensure a comfortable and financially stable retirement.
Read MoreBusiness Succession Planning: Passing Your Business on to Heirs
Have you planned for what happens when it’s time to retire or step away? Without a clear business succession plan, your heirs could face tax burdens, legal complications, or disputes over ownership.
Read MoreRetirement Planning with Tax Considerations in Mind
A well-structured retirement plan considers tax implications, ensuring you keep more of your hard-earned savings.
Read MoreTax Changes for 2025: What You Need to Know
Whether you’re an individual taxpayer, a business owner, or planning for retirement, understanding new tax laws can help you make informed decisions and potentially reduce your tax burden.
Read MoreUnderstanding the Social Security Fairness Act
Here’s what you need to know about the new Social Security law and how it could impact your retirement planning.
Read MoreWithdrawal Penalty Exceptions to the 59 1/2 Rule
While withdrawals from retirement accounts like IRAs or 401(k)s before age 59 1/2 generally incur a 10% penalty, there are several exceptions that allow you to avoid this extra cost.
Read MoreThe Difference Between Traditional IRA and Roth IRA
Understanding how traditional and Roth IRAs differ can help you choose the best fit for your needs.
Read More7 New Year’s Resolutions to Get Your Finances in Better Shape
The start of a new year is the perfect opportunity to take control of your finances. Here are seven resolutions that can help you set yourself up for financial success.
Read MoreMaking Charitable Contributions Correctly to Reap Tax Benefits
To ensure your generosity maximizes its impact—for both the recipient and your tax return—it’s important to follow the rules for deducting charitable contributions.
Read MoreMaking a Plan for 2025: Adjust Retirement Contributions to Maximize Benefits
Now is the perfect time to evaluate your savings strategy and make adjustments to take full advantage of increased limits for 2025.
Read MoreUnderstanding Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) and Year-End Deadlines
RMDs are mandatory withdrawals from certain retirement accounts, and understanding how they work is essential to minimize tax impacts.
Read MoreMaximize Your Tax Savings Before the New Year: Strategies for Investors
If you address these strategies before December 31st, you could set yourself up for an easier transition and lower taxes in 2025..
Read MoreYear-End Financial Checklist: Key Actions to Take Before December 31st
Consider these essential tasks for your year-end financial checklist.
Read MorePreparing for 2024 Income Taxes: Why You Should Start Early
By taking action now, you can avoid a last-minute scramble when filing your 2024 income taxes and potentially lower your tax liability.
Read MoreWeighing the Cost of Moving to a New Location in Retirement
Moving to a new location in retirement can be appealing, but before making this significant decision, carefully weigh the financial and practical considerations.
Read MoreAccessing Your 401(k) Early with the Rule of 55: What You Need to Know
The Rule of 55 could offer flexibility if you plan to retire early or if you’ve left your job and need to access your retirement savings.
Read MoreSocial Security COLA for 2025: What You Should Know
Based on recent data, the projected COLA for 2025 is expected to be around 2.6%. This marks a decrease from the 3.2% adjustment in 2024, reflecting a cooler inflation rate.
Read MoreRetirement Health Care and Long-Term Planning: Are You Prepared for the Unexpected?
Without proper preparation, healthcare costs can quickly erode your savings and impact your financial security in retirement. The key to being ready for the unexpected is to anticipate these expenses and develop a solid financial strategy.
Read MoreLegacy Planning: Preparing Your Estate Plan Before Year-End
Legacy planning ensures that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, helping to avoid family disputes, reduce taxes, and provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
Read MoreDeadline Looms for Employers to Setup Up Employee Retirement Accounts
Start setting up SIMPLE IRA or Safe Harbor 401(k) accounts for your employees right away. By doing so, you'll not only comply with the October 1, 2024, deadline but also demonstrate your commitment to your employees' financial well-being.
Read MoreNavigating Financial Planning After a Divorce
With a strategic approach, you can regain control over your finances and secure a stable future after a divorce.
Read MoreHow to Create a Sustainable Withdrawal Strategy in Retirement
A well-thought-out retirement plan balances your income needs with the longevity of your assets, helping you to maintain financial security and peace of mind.
Read MoreThe Benefits of Downsizing in Retirement
Downsizing, or moving to a smaller home, can offer numerous benefits that enhance your retirement lifestyle and financial well-being.
Read MoreThe Importance of Starting Your Retirement Plan Early
The earlier you start, the better prepared you'll be to enjoy your golden years without financial stress. Here's why beginning your retirement plan early is so important.
Read MoreWhy Dividend-Paying Stocks Can Be Ideal for Retirement Portfolios
When planning for retirement, it's crucial to construct a portfolio that provides both growth potential and income stability. Here’s why dividend-paying stocks can be an ideal component of retirement portfolios.
Read MoreRetirement Savings Strategies in Times of High Inflation
With strategic planning, you can protect and even grow your retirement savings in a high-inflation environment. Here are some effective strategies to consider.
Read MoreUnderstanding the SECURE 2.0 Act: New Opportunities for Retirement Planning
The recently enacted SECURE 2.0 Act takes it a step further. The SECURE 2.0 Act aims to enhance retirement savings and financial security for Americans. Here’s a breakdown of its key provisions.
Read MoreReal Estate in Retirement: Should You Downsize, Rent, or Relocate?
Deciding whether to downsize, rent, or relocate in retirement requires careful consideration of your financial situation, lifestyle preferences, and long-term goals.
Read MoreRetirement Living on a Cruise Ship: Is It Right for You?
You might have heard that some people retire on a cruise ship. It certainly sounds like a lot of fun! But how does it work? And could it be possible for you?
Read MoreIRS Revenue Ruling 2023-2: Implications for Irrevocable Trusts
Over the past decade, families increasingly turn to irrevocable trusts to safeguard assets from spend-down, allowing them to qualify for government benefits like Medicaid and VA Aid and Attendance.
Read MoreUnderstanding Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)
It's important to be aware of required minimum distributions (RMDs) – a potential downside of tax-deferred retirement accounts. Since RMDs can pose challenges, it’s important to learn how you can address them.
Read MoreSpring Clean Your Finances: Revitalize Your Financial Plan for Success
Just as we tidy up our living spaces, spring cleaning our finances can set us on the path to greater financial health and prosperity. Start today and reap the rewards of a clean and organized financial life.
Read More6 Tax-Efficient Strategies for a Smoother Tax Season Next Year
With a bit of foresight and planning, you can implement tax-efficient strategies throughout the year to ease the burden and potentially reduce your tax bill come next tax season.
Read MoreNew Tax Credits for Small Business Owners Adopting Retirement Plans
Recent developments in tax law offer a promising solution: the introduction of tax credits for those who establish employer-sponsored retirement plans.
Read MoreWhy Women Have Proven to be Better Investors for Retirement
Despite facing unique financial challenges and societal barriers, women have consistently demonstrated savvy investment behavior that positions them for long-term financial success. But why?
Read MoreSteps to Take During National Retirement Planning Month
Whether retirement is on the horizon or still a distant goal, now is the perfect time to assess your retirement preparedness and make informed decisions to secure a comfortable and fulfilling future.
Read MoreHow Much Life Insurance Should You Have?
While there's no one-size-fits-all answer, considering several key factors can help you determine how much life insurance coverage you need to adequately protect your loved ones financially in the event of your passing.
Read MoreNavigating Life Insurance Transitions: Planning Ahead for Retirement
Here's a guide on what to do when your employer-sponsored life insurance expires upon retirement or if you've recently learned about such impending changes.
Read MoreSafeguarding Legacies: The Imperative of a Trust for California Homeowners in Estate Planning
Homeowners in the Golden State face distinct challenges when it comes to estate planning, making the establishment of a trust a crucial component in safeguarding legacies and ensuring a seamless transition of assets.
Read MoreInvesting in the Future: Consider Life Insurance While You’re Young
Life insurance often elicits procrastination, especially among young people. But there are compelling reasons why it's a strategic decision to invest in life insurance while you're young, healthy, and easily insurable.
Read MoreSupplementing Your Retirement Income with Work-From-Home Opportunities
Work-from-home jobs can be a valuable addition to a retiree's life, offering financial, mental, and social benefits. However, it's vital to approach this decision with care.
Read MoreEstate Planning and Your Retirement: Protecting Your Legacy
By engaging in thoughtful estate planning alongside your retirement strategy, you create a comprehensive roadmap for the future.
Read MoreMaking Roth IRA Contributions in an Employer-Sponsored SIMPLE IRA
From 2023 onwards, individuals are able to make Roth contributions to their Simple IRAs, a significant change from the previous limitation to only pre-tax contributions.
Read MoreCharitable Giving Strategies to Consider Before the Year Ends
Before the calendar turns, consider implementing these charitable giving strategies to maximize your impact and potentially gain tax benefits.
Read MoreHoliday Spending Without Breaking the Bank
Let's explore some smart strategies to help you keep your finances in check while still enjoying the spirit of the season.
Read MoreMaximizing Retirement Contributions for 2023
One crucial aspect of financial planning that should not be overlooked at this time is maximizing contributions to your retirement plans before the calendar flips to the new year.
Read MoreEnd-of-the-Year Charitable Gifting Strategies to Consider
To make the most of your charitable giving, it's essential to consider some strategic approaches as you plan your year-end donations.
Read MoreThe Upcoming Estate Tax Exemption Sunset: What You Need to Know
With the 2025 estate tax "sunset" approaching, we must prepare estate plans for changes that may significantly impact your wealth transfer strategies.
Read MoreIRS Announces Increased 2024 Retirement Plan Contribution Limits
In 2024, both individual retirement accounts (IRAs) and 401(k) plans will see adjustments in their contribution limits. These changes can have a significant impact on your retirement savings strategy.
Read MoreMaking the Most of Employer-Sponsored Retirement Plans
By understanding the ins and outs of these plans and strategically managing contributions, individuals can maximize their benefits and pave the way for a financially robust future.
Read MoreLiving Your Dreams in Retirement: Creating a Realistic Retirement Budget
A well-structured budget is the cornerstone of a successful retirement plan, enabling individuals to align their finances with their desired lifestyle and ensure sustainability throughout their retirement years.
Read MoreEnsuring a Smooth Transition of Wealth to the Next Generation
The following elements of estate planning can help you get started, but do consult with an experienced estate planning attorney to establish a secure estate plan that addresses your wishes and concerns.
Read More9 Tips for Maximizing Social Security Benefits
It's essential to understand how the system works and explore strategies for optimizing your payments. Here are some valuable tips to help you maximize your Social Security benefits.
Read MoreEconomic Trends and Your Retirement: Strategies for Adapting to Market Changes
While you can't predict the future, you can prepare for market changes by adopting adaptable strategies that safeguard your financial well-being during retirement. Here are some essential tips to help you navigate economic trends.
Read MoreCreating a Tax-Efficient Retirement Strategy
It's important to create a tax-efficient strategy. Minimizing your tax liability in retirement can help you keep more of your hard-earned savings. Here are some key steps to create a tax-efficient retirement strategy.
Read MoreIncorporating Philanthropy into Your Financial Plan
Giving back to society not only brings positive change to the lives of others but can also have surprising benefits for your own financial well-being.
Read MoreRetiring Abroad: Exploring Your Options for an International Retirement
For many individuals, retiring abroad has become an appealing option. The prospect of living in a different country brings forth a sense of adventure, cultural enrichment, and the allure of a more affordable lifestyle.
Read MoreHow Compound Interest Can Transform Your Savings
As the saying goes, "Time is money," and when it comes to building your retirement savings, nothing exemplifies this more than compound interest.
Read MoreEstimated 2024 Social Security COLA Might be Lower Than You Hoped
Because Social Security COLA is tied to the inflation rate, the payment increase in 2024 is not likely to be as large as it was this past January.
Read MoreHow to Transition Smoothly into Retirement
Some retirees are surprised at the difference between living on their former income and their new, fixed retirement income. Following these five tips can help you make a smoother transition.
Read MoreBorrowing Money, the Smart Way
Debt isn’t always bad; it’s how we access and use it that matters. So having said that, how can you borrow money the smart way?
Read MoreHow Social Security is Changing in 2023
The new, larger monthly checks were no doubt a welcome change for those struggling with the impact of inflation. But that’s not all of the changes Social Security has seen in 2023.
Read More5 Ways to Save Money in Retirement
These five tips can help you save money on routine expenses, so that you can devote more of your funds to hobbies, travel, and relaxation.
Read MoreWant to Retire in 10 Years? Here’s What You Should Be Doing Now
If you’re hoping to retire in the next ten years, here’s what you should be doing next.
Read MoreHow Do Some People Manage to Retire Early?
What about people who planned to retire early, and actually succeeded? What’s their secret?
Read MoreA ‘Silent Crisis’ is Set to Impact Retirement Savings
Larry Fink, CEO of BlackRock, recently warned investors in his annual Chairman’s Letter about a global “Silent Crisis” that is soon to impact retirees.
Read MoreShould You Pay off All Debts Before Retirement?
If you’re making a plan to pay down debts before you retire, it’s important to know that not all debts are created equal. Some are definitely more important and deserve more of your focus than others.
Read MoreWhen Should You Update Your Beneficiaries?
In order to ensure that the right people inherit your assets when you pass away, you should review your beneficiary forms every few years
Read More5 Reasons Millennials Should Plan for Retirement Now
Millennials who skip retirement planning now will likely come to regret it later. Retirement planning is now even more important than ever, due to these five factors.
Read MoreIs the Housing Market Set for a Crash?
What’s going on in the housing market, and are we set for a crash soon? No one can answer that question for sure, but three aspects of current market conditions point toward concern.
Read More5 Last Minute Tax Planning Tips
Before you file your taxes, consider these five last-minute tax planning tips. They might save you a bit of money.
Read MoreDon't Have a Power of Attorney Yet? This Is Why You Should
If you haven’t established a power of attorney yet, here’s why you should.
Read More3 Signs You Should Consider Moving in Retirement
Many retirees later discover that their old home simply does not suit them anymore and need to make changes to their retirement plans. It would be a good idea to investigate this topic now.
Read MoreHow to Boost Your Tax Savings with Last-Minute IRA Contributions
Are you looking for a smart way to lower your tax bill and boost your retirement savings? If so, it's time to learn more about IRAs!
Read More3 Signs You’re Getting Close to Retirement
Once you can say “yes” to these three goalposts, you’re probably getting close to retirement.
Read MoreYou Can Still Contribute to Your Retirement Account for 2022 Tax Season
You can still set aside money in a retirement account and receive a deduction on your 2022 tax return.
Read MoreTurning 62 This Year? 5 Things You Need to Know About Social Security
You’ve just reached the age of Social Security eligibility (assuming you would file an early claim for benefits), so here's what you need to know at this time.
Read MoreLarger Social Security Checks in 2023 Could Bring a Tax Surprise
Like many retirees and those planning an imminent retirement, you might have felt thrilled to hear of the recent cost of living adjustment to Social Security benefits. The 8.7 percent increase represented one of the largest-ever...
Read MoreThe 5 States with Lowest Taxes for Retirees
Of all the things you’re looking forward to in retirement, the freedom from an office is probably number one. Not only will you escape the pain of a daily commute; you won’t be tied to a particular location at all....
Read MoreThe New RMD Age of 73 starts in 2023
As you might already know, the SECURE Act made a number of changes to retirement account rules. Specifically, the age at which required minimum distributions (RMDs) must begin was raised from 70 ½ to 72, giving retirees a bit more...
Read MoreTake Your RMDs On Time to Avoid Possible Penalties
If you miss the deadline for taking your first RMD, you could put yourself in jeopardy regarding potential penalties. Here’s what you need to know.
Read More6 Things to Know About Year-End Charitable Gifting
Use these tips to strategize your generosity, and you can benefit yourself and others at the same time.
Read MoreReminder: Tax Season is Just Around the Corner
Take the time to address these tax planning steps before the end of the year.
Read More4 Ways to Manage Your Healthcare Costs in Retirement
Because healthcare can become a considerable expense after age 65, you should carefully consider different methods of managing those expenses.
Read More5 Forms of Non-Taxable Retirement Income
Because you will likely be living on a fixed income in retirement, you want to minimize the impact of any “surprises” at this time of life. For some retirees, income taxes can come as a major shock. Yes, income taxes are...
Read MoreRetirement Plan Contribution Limits Increase for 2023
How much should you save for retirement from each paycheck? That’s one of the most common questions in the financial planning world. We generally recommend that our clients save as much as possible, for several very important...
Read MoreYes, You Can Still Retire During an Uncertain Economy
If you’re due to retire soon, it would be understandable if you’re feeling a bit nervous about the uncertain state of the economy.
Read MoreSocial Security Beneficiaries Will Receive a Raise in 2023
If you’re concerned about the impact of a COLA on taxes or your retirement budget in general, do get in touch with us to discuss your options.
Read MoreA Simple Way to Keep Medical Costs Lower in Retirement
Once you enter retirement, your out-of-pocket spending on healthcare is likely to increase. But you do have some options to keep costs down.
Read MoreThe Two Most Common Retirement Fears
Normally, we focus on retirement goals when putting together a plan. Once we help our clients identify their objectives, we create a strategy for a retirement income that hopefully provides for their future lifestyle. But we...
Read MoreWhat Happens When You Claim Social Security at 70?
Many of us tend to view age 65 as a target retirement age. That’s when you become eligible for Medicare, but it’s early enough that you hopefully still have many healthy years ahead of you. But some of us are ready to...
Read MoreThe Retirement Risk You Haven’t Addressed
Most of us feel a bit of anxiety as we approach our target retirement date. You want to be sure that you’ve planned for everything, but as you know, some things in life cannot be planned. Instead, we can only plan how to handle...
Read MoreIt’s Almost Fall: Start Thinking About Tax Planning Now!
Because adequate advance planning can help you better strategize your tax return, you should think about it before the end of the year.
Read More6 Surprises You Might Encounter in Retirement
Life will always throw us little surprises. But if you anticipate some of the possibilities, you can at least accommodate the possibility within your plans.
Read MoreStates that Don’t Tax Social Security and/or Retirement Benefits
Because individual states do impose their own tax code, choosing a location can be critical in the retirement years. That’s why so many retirees choose to relocate after their working years have ended.
Read More5 Steps to Creating Successful Financial Goals & Why it Matters
Here are 5 components to help you create sustainable & achievable goals.
Read More3 Aspects to Creating an Effective Budget
A core element to financial health is to spend less than you make. It is simple until you put it into action. Here are 3 qualifiers to measure your budget by.
Read More9 Things You Might Not Know About Social Security
Are you wondering what’s so confusing about Social Security? Here are nine of the most commonly surprising facts that many people don’t know.
Read More4 Steps to Reduce Your Debt Before Retirement
When we talk about retirement planning, most of us tend to focus on saving money and setting up one or more reliable streams of income for the future. But there’s another important component of planning for your retirement: How...
Read MoreHow Will Inflation Impact Your Retirement Income?
With inflation rising rapidly, how will your retirement income and lifestyle be impacted?
Read MoreThe Best Way to Pay off Debts Before You Retire
You might feel tempted to utilize a somewhat controversial method of paying off debts as your target retirement date approaches… But should you?
Read MoreIf You’re Retired or Soon to Be, Take Note of This Change
Once you enter retirement, you will need to switch your strategy from saving to taking withdrawals. And while doing so, you must navigate complicated IRS rules.
Read MoreHit Age 50 Yet? Time for a Financial Check-Up
Because life tends to bring so many surprises, there are never any guarantees when it comes to retirement savings and planning. But this quick check-up can help you decide if you’re on the right track.
Read MoreHow Does Social Security Work When a Spouse Dies?
It is important to consider what happens to each of you if the other spouse passes away first. In most cases this is an unpredictable part of life.
Read MoreWhat Happens if I Start Collecting Social Security, But Then I Change My Mind?
At some point, you might feel that you’re ready to - or need to - claim your benefits. What if that decision turns out to feel like a mistake, and you regret it? Can you change your mind and delay your benefits until later?
Read MoreNew Year - Time to Review Your Beneficiaries and Make any Needed Changes
Read More
What You Need to Know About Estate Planning Right Now
Over the past year and half, we’ve all thought about contagious diseases and healthcare much more than we normally would. Living through a state of emergency can prompt us to rethink many of our plans, including our estate plans....
Read MoreHave You Considered the Cost of Healthcare in Retirement?
Have you set a target retirement date yet? Or, are you still evaluating your options? Either way, it is likely that you will continue to reevaluate your budget even after you retire! That’s because the costs of various goods and...
Read MorePandemic Fallout Triggered an Early Retirement for Some
If there’s one thing that can change nearly every aspect of society, from broad trends down to individual lives, it’s a pandemic. As we’ve seen, the consequences of the Covid pandemic have affected us at every level....
Read MoreShould You Pay Off the House Before You Retire?
Ask ten different people about their dreams for retirement, and you might get ten different answers. But one theme will pop up regularly: Many of us envision a debt-free life. And in particular, paying off the mortgage before...
Read More4 Financial Lessons We Can All Learn from Baby Boomers
As Einstein once said, “Information is not knowledge. The only source of knowledge is experience.” Experience, whether intentional scientific experiments or simply life lessons, is the best way to gain wisdom. But we can...
Read MoreWhat is a Debt Ceiling, and How Does It Affect Us?
Washington lawmakers never fail to keep us entertained (or concerned, depending upon your perspective). But the latest news seems a bit confusing for many of you. What exactly is the debt ceiling, and why do they want to raise it...
Read MoreAvoid These 5 Money Mistakes as You Head Into Retirement
After decades of working, planning, and saving, you’re finally beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel! But now, as you head into the final stretch of your career, you must avoid a few common mistakes. Make wise...
Read MoreWhat’s the Difference Between Traditional And Roth Retirement Accounts?
Ideally, retirement planning begins early in your career and then continues for decades. You will make a number of decisions when you first open a retirement account, and then reevaluate those decisions throughout your career as you...
Read MoreSmall Businesses in California Must Provide a Retirement Plan
Many Americans worry that they are under-prepared for retirement, citing insufficient savings and a rising cost of living. Even worse, according to the Federal Reserve one quarter of working adults have no retirement savings at all. In...
Read MoreNew Retirement Statistics Might Make You Think Twice
Are you planning to retire sometime within the next decade? Many of us have been planning for this moment for many years, and now we’re in the home stretch of our careers. We hope you’re feeling confident about your plans,...
Read MoreAs Prices Rise, What Will Happen to Social Security Checks?
No, it is not your imagination. The cost of many goods and services has risen over the past year, and some of those price hikes are significant. Most household budgets have been impacted, and the measures of inflation are indeed...
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