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Your Year-End Estate Planning Guide: An 8-Step Checklist
When it comes to your estate plan, you don’t just have it drafted and put away until it is time for your loved ones to manage your lifetime of affairs. As your world changes year by year, it is critical that you review your...
Read MoreTake Steps to Protect Your Confidential Docs
Safeguard your personal, financial and medical records at home and work With several past and present events involving the White House, data breaches, or classified documents being leaked, the importance of safeguarding confidential...
Read MoreTips for Organizing Your Financial Documents
In an increasingly paper-free society, organizing your financial documents can still be a challenge. No matter how simple or complex your financial picture might be, it takes some thought-out organization to keep your tax...
Read MoreThe Ultimate Downsizing Checklist Before Retiring
By focusing on goals and priorities, you can create a new, simplified lifestyle As retirement approaches, many older adults consider downsizing their home as a way to simplify their lives, reduce expenses, and focus on what truly...
Read MoreTips to Navigate Tax Filing Season and the IRS
Be proactive and follow these steps to ensure accuracy and compliance. Tax filing season can be a stressful time for many individuals. Dealing with the IRS and ensuring compliance with tax regulations can seem daunting. However, with...
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A Financial Checklist for Life-Changing Events
When it comes to financial planning, people often think of financial professionals as people who assist with strategies for retirement planning. That is one aspect of their job; however, financial planning and working with a financial...
Read MoreReal Estate Cyber-Security and Fraud Prevention
According to statistics from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), real estate is the second most targeted industry for cyber-attacks. The FBI reported almost $150 million in real-estate-related fraud in 2018, with scams aimed at...
Read MoreU.S. Credit Rating Downgraded
For the second time in the nation’s history, the U.S. debt rating was downgraded by a rating agency, Fitch Ratings, from the highest rating, AAA (Exceptionally Strong), to AA+ (Very Strong). The last time this occurred was in...
Read MoreWho Needs Disability Income Insurance?
I am all set. I’ll be fine. I’ve got plenty of insurance already. Have you thought the same about insurance or made these statements before? Maybe you do have an appropriate amount of coverage, but do you have plans to...
Read More4 Reasons Financial Services Are Not as Scary as You Think
For some people, the thought of using financial services is a scary experience. It involves planning for a future where you may not know how the economy may be, how your health may be, or what your financial needs might be. One of the...
Read MoreMake Your Life a Success
What does a successful life mean to you? Whether it is as grand as owning a business or as simple as finding a way to balance work and family life, we all want our lives to be a reflection of success. But what steps are you taking to...
Read MoreDisaster Preparedness for Businesses
As a successful business owner, you don't want to think about your operations being interrupted by a natural disaster or other unexpected event. Yet the possibility is a real one. Natural catastrophes represent just a portion of the...
Read MoreTax Planning Tips: Life Insurance
Understanding the importance of life insurance is one thing. Understanding the tax rules is quite another. As insurance products have evolved and become more sophisticated, the line separating insurance vehicles from investment...
Read MoreIndependent and Thriving: What to Consider In Your Later Years
While you never know your needs as you age, the first step is thinking about your financial situation and health today so you can plan for your later years. With a one in four chance of making it to our 90th birthday, being independent...
Read MoreThe Ultimate Juggling Act: 4 Ways to Save for College and Retirement
With the average price for private college tuition and fees hitting $43,750 for the 2021-2022 school year and public college attendees paying more than $28,000 per year, many parents are nervously anticipating what will happen after...
Read MoreInvesting for Major Financial Goals
Go out into your yard and dig a big hole. Every month, throw $50 into it, but don't take any money out until you're ready to buy a house, send your child to college, or retire. It sounds a little crazy, doesn't it? But that's what...
Read MoreStocks: Tax Planning
What is investment tax planning for stocks? Investment tax planning for stocks takes advantage of the tax rules with the goal of achieving the best after-tax return on these investments. Strategies will differ depending on whether you...
Read MoreIntroduction to Designing and Managing an Investment Portfolio
Once you've identified your financial and investment goals and assessed your investing personality, you'll need to create an investment portfolio that fits your needs and understand what's involved in managing that portfolio on an...
Read MoreLPL Financial Research Midyear Outlook 2023: The Path Toward Stability
Our 2023 investing outlook started with a theme of returning to normalcy. Considering 2022’s market volatility and the aftereffects of the pandemic, the idea of finding balance was certainly a welcomed change. It’s a theme...
Read MoreAn Introduction to Estate Planning for the Sandwich Generation
For members of the "Sandwich Generation"—those currently in their 40s and 50s who are caring for children and their parents who are over 65-years old—estate planning may seem like a low priority. After all, when you're...
Read MoreHome Equity Loans and Lines of Credit
Are you interested in remodeling your outdated kitchen? Perhaps you're drowning in a sea of high-interest credit card debt, or need to find the money to send your child to college. Or maybe you just want the comfort of a cash reserve...
Read MoreInvestor Summer School: 3 Investing Moves to Make Before Summer is Over
Many investors still adhere to the old adage—"sell in May and go away"—while others remain fully invested even as the summer heat waves begin. What goes unsaid is that if your asset allocation accurately reflects your risk...
Read MoreDebt Ceiling & Potential Impact on Asset Classes
Failing to raise the ceiling by June 1st could lead to short-term challengesThe debt ceiling, a crucial aspect of fiscal policy, has long been a subject of debate and concern within the United States. As the nation grapples with the...
Read MoreRetirement Annuities Explained: What They Are and How They Work
Having enough retirement income is a top concern for many Americans nearing or in retirement. Even though they may have saved consistently throughout the working years, they may be concerned that their retirement plans will succeed. A...
Read MoreTips for Controlling the Rising Cost of Healthcare
Businesses can shift to a value-based care model which can reduce costsKeeping a lid on rising healthcare costs will likely remain at the forefront for organizations this year, for good reason. A confluence of factors – including...
Read MoreGetting Started: Establishing a Financial Safety Net
In times of crisis, you don't want to be shaking pennies out of a piggy bank. Having a financial safety net in place can ensure that you're protected when a financial emergency arises. One way to accomplish this is by setting up a cash...
Read MoreBank Failures Shine Light on Interest Rate Risks
Financial markets reacted turbulently to the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) on March 10, 2023, followed two days later by the failure of Signature Bank of New York. With $209 billion in assets and $175 billion in deposits, SVB...
Read MoreUnderstanding the Retirement Bucket Strategy
An investment approach that can help you work towards a confident retirement.Retirement is a significant milestone in one's life, which requires careful planning and foresight to pursue a confident and stress-free transition. One...
Read MoreFactors Leading to a Cooling Housing Market
Stay informed and adapt your strategies to changing market conditionsOver the past several years, the housing market has been on a relentless upward trajectory, with home prices reaching record levels and demand outpacing supply...
Read MoreWhat To Do If You Miss the Tax-Filing Deadline
Five steps to take to mitigate any penalties and consequencesThe tax deadline for individuals in the United States is usually April 15, but in some years it can be moved due to various reasons. This year, the tax deadline was moved to...
Read MoreWorking with an Advisory Team
What is working with an advisory team?Mismanagement is often the reason for new business failure. Therefore, a wise business owner surrounds himself or herself with the talented and experienced people it takes to make a business...
Read More"A Long Way to Go and is Likely to Be Bumpy"
Powell’s comments suggest the Fed is likely to raise rates higher and fasterThe Federal Reserve, commonly referred to as the Fed, plays a crucial role in the U.S. economy. In fact, technically speaking, since the late 1970s, the...
Read MoreBank Alternatives for Diversifying Cash Holdings
As a business owner, you may have heard about the recent failures of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank. These two events highlight the importance of diversifying your cash holdings ...
Read MoreDissecting Recent Bank Failures
Bank Failures Raise Market DistressStock and bond market activity was materially shaken last week as Silicon Valley Bank (SVB), the California bank subsidiary of SVB Financial Group (SIVB), fell into FDIC receivership. SVB is...
Read MoreThinking About Working in Retirement? Here's What to Consider
If you're thinking about working in retirement, you must consider a few things before making your decision. As you get older, the question of when to collect Social Security retirement benefits and how your monthly payment may be...
Read MorePay Down Debt or Save for Retirement?
You can use a variety of strategies to pay off debt, many of which can cut not only the amount of time it will take to pay off the debt but also the total interest paid. But like many people, you may be torn between paying off debt and...
Read MoreA Beginner’s Guide to Investing
When you start to consider if investing is an appropriate option for you, you may have questions. You might want to ask:How do I invest money, and where? How much money will I need? What are some common strategies for someone that has...
Read MoreWealth Due to Inheritance
What is it? If you're the beneficiary of a large inheritance, you may find yourself suddenly wealthy. Even if you expected the inheritance, you may be surprised by the size of the bequest or the diverse assets you've inherited. You'll...
Read MoreTop 5 (Almost Guaranteed) Predictions for 2023
The year 2022 will be remembered by investors as a very difficult year as almost all financial assets struggled. Stocks struggled, bonds struggled, housing struggled and cryptos got hammered as the Fed tried to reel in inflation by...
Read MoreHelp! I Can't Pay My Tax Bill
You're almost done with your federal income tax return, and you're already thinking of ways to spend your refund. Then, the unthinkable happens — instead of a refund, you find that you owe $3,000. Or perhaps you've just received...
Read MoreTop 10 Provisions in SECURE 2.0 Enacted in December 2022
Congress recently enacted landmark retirement legislation known as SECURE 2.0 that will incentivize individuals to save for retirement, while increasing access to workplace plans. The new law includes a number of provisions intended to...
Read More5 Ways to Give Tax-Free Gifts
If you plan to gift a sizable amount of money to a loved one, gift tax should be on your radar. Gift tax is a federal tax imposed on transfers of cash or property valued above a certain threshold. Gift tax is paid by the gift giver,...
Read MoreGet Over the Postholiday Hump
The first day back to work after the holiday season is difficult, there’s no doubt about it.But knowing that this day will come, there are ways you can help yourself, if just a little bit, to get over the physical and mental...
Read More3 Ways to Tackle Your Financial Goals
Though the New Year may bring with it a new opportunity to set and achieve financial goals, the thought of making sweeping changes to your budget and lifestyle may be overwhelming. What can you do to improve your odds of success in...
Read MoreCheers to a New Year of Investing
For many investors, this year has been a wild ride—with interest rate increases, a crypto implosion, and whipsawing values in the major market indices. It might be tough to catch one's breath and look ahead to next year. But the...
Read MoreTop Year-End Investment Tips
Just what you need, right? One more time-consuming task to be taken care of between now and the end of the year. But taking a little time out from the holiday chores to make some strategic saving and investing decisions before December...
Read MoreLPL 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 that we might be striving for more balance. Whether it’s about the markets...
Read MoreGetting Help from a Financial Professional
Are you unsure about whether you're on the right track with your savings and investments? Finding yourself with new responsibilities, such as the care of a child or an aging parent? Facing other life events, such as marriage, divorce,...
Read MoreLeaving Your Job? Your Retirement Savings Plan Options
Are you leaving your job and considering whether to take a distribution from your 401(k), 403(b), or governmental 457(b) plan? if so, make sure you've considered all your options.In general, you have the following four options when...
Read MorePersonal Deduction Planning
Taxes, like death, are inevitable. But why pay more than you have to? The trick to minimizing your federal income tax liability is to understand the rules and make the most of your tax planning opportunities. Personal deduction...
Read MoreGive the Gift of a Lifetime
If you ask someone their favorite part of the holiday season, giving or receiving gifts will likely be their response nine times out of ten. Gift-giving is a huge part of the holidays—it’s why there are entire days...
Read MoreYear-End Charitable Giving
With the holiday season upon us and the end of the year approaching, we pause to give thanks for our blessings and the people in our lives. It is also a time when charitable giving often comes to mind. The tax benefits associated...
Read MoreCreating a Legacy of Change through Charitable Giving
Philanthropy today is different than it was in the past. It was once common for donors to distribute their wealth through smaller grants to numerous organizations. Over time, best practices for charitable giving have evolved, and...
Read MoreFinancial Aid Resources for Your Incoming Freshman
College is expensive for many people. The average tuition and fees at a college or university for the 2019 to 2020 academic year at a four-year institution was $9,4001. This may include the cost of tuition, books, and housing. For some...
Read MoreReal Estate Cyber-Security and Fraud Prevention
According to statistics from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), real estate is the second most targeted industry for cyber-attacks. The FBI reported almost $150 million in real-estate-related fraud in 2018, with scams aimed at...
Read MoreEarly Detection: Beating the Breast Cancer Odds
With so many contradicting recommendations and myths, it can be difficult to decipher breast cancer facts from fiction. However, there are plenty of agreed-upon risk factors, as well as best practices for testing, that are essential to...
Read MoreTactical Asset Allocation in Today’s Market?
Understanding relative strength (momentum) and counter-trend analysisWise investors alter their approaches as market cycles shift, from bull to bear to something in between. A consistent strategy can be far riskier than one that...
Read MoreStudent Loan Forgiveness: Everything You Need to Know
On Aug. 24, 2022, President Biden announced an unprecedented plan to eliminate student loan debt for millions of borrowers.1 This plan forgives up to $20,000 in federal student loan debt for qualified borrowers, including those holding...
Read More401(k) Rollover Options to Consider
When people are leaving their employer, one of the decisions they need to make is what to do with their 401(k). A retirement plan participant typically has four options (and may engage in a combination of these options), each choice...
Read MoreThe Differences Between Growth, Core & Value
Understanding your style of investing is an important step – especially todayAre you a Growth investor or a Value investor? Or do you prefer a mix of the two?Understanding your style of investing is an important step in deciding...
Read MoreAmerica’s Best Beaches for a Family Getaway
If you have a family, you know that long gone are the days of saving up your dollars and cents in a coffee can for a lively weekend at the beach with friends, where the only worries you had were how many suits you needed to pack for a...
Read MoreRetirement Planning Tips for Women
Women often face special challenges when planning for retirement.For example, if they are the primary caregivers in their families, their careers may be interrupted to care for children or elderly parents, which means they may spend...
Read MoreBack to Basics - Diversification and Asset Allocation
Why is diversification so important? The simple reason is that it helps manage the risk of loss in your portfolio.When investing, particularly for long-term goals, there are two concepts you will likely hear about over and over again...
Read MoreWhat to Know About Multigenerational Estate Planning
Baby Boomers — those born between 1946 and 1964 — hold about $20 trillion in wealth.1 Over the next few decades, many Boomers may transfer this wealth to their Gen X, millennial, and Gen Z children, perhaps incurring a...
Read MoreStaying on Track with Your Retirement Investments
All investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal, and there can be no assurance that any investment strategy will be successful. And asset allocation and diversification alone cannot guarantee a profit or eliminate...
Read MoreWhy 9.1% Inflation Is Likely to Go Even Higher
The Producer Price Index is higher than the Consumer Price IndexOn July 13th, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (inflation) increased 1.3% in June after rising 1.0%...
Read MoreCustomizing Trusts
What is customizing trusts?A trust is created when you (the grantor, settlor, or donor) transfer property to another person or persons (a trustee or trustees, which could also be you) for the benefit of a third person or persons (the...
Read MoreCaught in the Middle: Sandwich Generation Stress and the Importance of Social Wellness
The "Sandwich Generation" wakes up every morning with a lot on their plates. They not only have to provide support for themselves and their own children but also help to take care of aging parents. For many, this is both physically and...
Read MoreFinancial Freedom vs. Financial Independence: Key Differences and How to Work Towards Both
Working towards financial independence can often be a lifelong process.But for many, financial freedom may come far sooner—and include some fun along the way. What are the differences between financial independence and financial...
Read MoreRethinking Social Wellness for Your Employees
Corporate wellness programs have been key tools in improving productivity, employee retention, and creating a more desirable corporate culture. While many companies have put a strong focus on physical wellness plans, many are just...
Read MoreWellness in Retirement: The Benefits of Social Wellness for Retirees
Social isolation makes people more susceptible to illness and death.1 While retirement is a time for relaxation and enjoyment from a lifetime of work, it may lead to a lack of purpose if you have depended on work for social activities...
Read More3 Golf Tips to Keep Your Retirement Plan on Course
3 Golf Tips to Keep Your Retirement Plan on CourseIn golf, as in finances, there are a few rules of thumb that may improve your game: keep a level head, avoid traps, practice before trying something new and stay the course. Applying...
Read MoreBenefits of Homeownership
Owning a home has long been part of the American dream. But did you ever consider why this is? Sure, for some it’s a good investment: their money goes toward their own equity rather than a landlord, and many people can make a...
Read MoreAnnuities: What Every Retiree Should Be Aware Of
Planning for retirement is essential as a step toward financial security. Most investors are familiar with 401(k)s, Traditional IRAs, or Roth IRAs but often may not know about an annuity's benefits in retirement. Knowing if retirement...
Read MoreKeep Your Homeowners Coverage Up To Date
When you sign up for a homeowners or condominium owners insurance policy, you take the first step in protecting what may be one of your largest assets. It is important to be knowledgeable about the appropriate amount of coverage needed...
Read MoreDawn of a New Era for Core Bonds
Core bond investors have experienced the worst start to the year ever. However tough this year has been so far though (and it has been tough), the potential for future returns has improved meaningfully, in our view. Starting yields...
Read More6 Ways to Minimize Your Tax Liability Throughout the Year
You don't need to wait until the end of the year to look for ways to minimize your tax liability. Tax planning should take place throughout the year to have you prepared well ahead of tax season. Here are six ways to minimize your tax...
Read MoreWhat Role Does Social Security Play in Your Retirement Income Strategy?
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Protecting Yourself from Tax Identity Theft
Tax identity theft is when someone steals your Social Security Number, files a tax return with your number, and directs a refund to their own bank account. In other cases, this type of identity theft may involve a scam artist calling...
Read MoreFocus on Your Wellness This Holiday Season
The holidays are prime time for eating delicious food, celebrating with loved ones, and creating long-lasting memories. However, all this cheer can be both physically and mentally draining. That’s why it is essential to focus on...
Read More2022 Contribution Limits
Preparing for retirement just got a little more financial wiggle room. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) recently announced new contribution limits for 2022. Staying put for 2022 are traditional Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs),...
Read More8 Tips to Stay on Track with Your Holiday Budgeting
It’s hard to believe we are already approaching the end of another year, and holiday season will soon be here. Since holiday spending doesn’t include just gifting, it’s essential to set your budget now. You may likely...
Read MoreA Financial Review Can Pay Off at Year End
Today, many people find themselves bombarded by a constant stream of financial news from television, radio, and the Internet. Yet, does all this “information age” data really help you manage your finances any better now...
Read MoreWhat to Do If (When) Your Taxes Start Going Up
Not knowing what Congress will do should not stop you from planning One variable that is hard to plan for in retirement is taxes. There are steps you can take, though, despite the uncertain tax landscape. We don’t even know what...
Read MoreCybersecurity Awareness: What You Need to Know
October 2021 marks the 18th Cybersecurity Awareness Month—and cybercrime continues to evolve.1 Though you may not get as many emails promising bodily enhancements or asking you to keep some overseas funds in your checking account...
Read MoreGet Your Exterior Halloween-Ready
Between the never-ending candy supply and the various costume options, it’s hard to not get into the Halloween spirit. Whether you’re going for a scary or festive look, these themed decoration ideas will ensure that the...
Read MoreInherited IRAs: What You Should Know
The rules and consequences of IRA beneficiary arrangements are complex The rules pertaining to Individual Retirement Account (IRA) beneficiaries can be complicated. Here is a quick look at the limitations the Internal Revenue Service...
Read MoreHurricane Ida Reminds Us to Ask If It’s Covered
When was the last time you actually read your homeowner’s policy? Hurricane Ida made landfall near Port Fourchon, Louisiana, on Sunday, August 29 as an extremely dangerous Category 4 hurricane packing winds of 150 mph, the...
Read MoreA Trip For Your Senses: Fall Foliage Road Trip
From bright yellows to fiery reds, fall foliage is something to be admired. Regardless of where you’re located, there are multiple routes within each region where you can experience the greatest colors. Charge your camera, pack...
Read MoreYour Fall Maintenance Checklist
As the summer draws to a close and the first chilly winds of autumn blow through, it’s time to think through the way you’ll clean up, fix up, and maintain your home for fall. By keeping up with your home’s maintenance...
Read MoreWhy You Should Resist the Temptation To Cash Out Your 401(k) Early
America's major stock market indexes, including the Dow Jones Industrial, S&P 500, Nasdaq Composite and Nasdaq 100, all hit record highs on July 7, 2021.1 For some investors, it might be tempting to tap into your 401(k) to help pay...
Read MoreFour Tips for Gaining Financial Independence
The golden rule of financial planning: if you can plan it, you can achieve it Over the past July 4th, we celebrated our country’s history of declaring independence and guaranteeing basic human freedoms. But true freedom requires...
Read MoreFive Useful Beach Hacks
There’s certainly a reason why trips to the beach are one of the most desired summer vacations. From basking in the sun to indulging in delicious boardwalk treats, a beach trip is sure to create unforgettable memories with both...
Read MoreThe Cost to Raise Your 6-Year Old Is How Much?
Your financial professional can help you plan for the rising costs of kids and college If you have a child in kindergarten, you may want to dust off a report from 2015 that explains just how expensive raising kids can be. And...
Read MoreFive Financial Mistakes You Should Avoid
These simple steps might save you a great deal of money and heartache We all make mistakes, and through them, we learn. But when it comes to finances, it is best not to take the trial-and-error approach. Maybe you’re making some...
Read MoreThe Sandwich Generation: Juggling Family Responsibilities
At a time when your career is reaching a peak and you are looking ahead to your own retirement, you may find yourself in the position of having to help your children with college expenses while at the same time looking after the needs...
Read MoreA Look at College Savings Options
As time goes by, planning for a child’s college education is more challenging than ever before. The savings method you choose will depend on your child’s age, as well as your financial resources. Other considerations, such...
Read MoreAnnuities and Market Risk: What You Need to Know
Market risk is something all investors may worry about, but those close to retirement have limited time to recover from market loss. If you are within ten years of retirement, now is a critical time for your portfolio to continue to...
Read MoreDad’s Day Out: Must-Visit Destinations for Father’s Day
When it comes to shopping for Father’s Day, it can be tricky to avoid the old clichés of a new tie or a seventh (unnecessary) screwdriver for his toolbox. Besides, what if your dad isn’t the businessman or handyman...
Read MoreMaintaining the Investment You Made in Your Home
For many Americans, the home is the single biggest purchase made during their lifetime.[1] As a result, it's important to do everything possible to keep it in good condition. Even moderate or short-term neglect can be dangerous, as...
Read MoreDelegate Your Way to Success
If you are like many small business owners, there may never seem to be enough hours in the day. Yet, once a company reaches a certain size, it can become increasingly difficult to rely solely on the efforts of one person alone to keep...
Read MoreIncome Tax Planning and 529 Plans
The income tax benefits offered by 529 plans make these plans attractive to parents (and others) who are saving for college or K-12 tuition. Qualified withdrawals from a 529 plan are tax free at the federal level, and some states also...
Read MoreSmall Business and Insurance: What Do You Really Need?
Insuring your business against various forms of financial loss is a common small business strategy. While you have much to attend to with the day-to-day needs of your small business, insurance considerations are equally as important....
Read MoreComparing Life Insurance Policies
Like anyone else, you want a life insurance policy that meets your needs and budget. But how do you find the right policy when there are so many to choose from and many of them seem so similar? The key is knowing how to compare...
Read MoreWhat Retirement Plans Are Available?
When securing your financial future, saving for retirement usually is a no-brainer. But between an IRA, Roth IRA, 401(k), 457(b), SEP IRA, and the other retirement vehicles, how can you know which plan or plans are right for you? The...
Read MoreThe Perils of Trying to Time the Stock Market
One year after the COVID-market-bottom, were you fully invested? The end of March 2021 marks the one-year anniversary of the stock market bottom and the end of the shortest bear market on record. Since then the U.S. stock markets have...
Read MoreDisability Income Insurance: Typical Policy Features
Although there is no such thing as a standard disability policy, you're likely to see most of the following terms, conditions, and benefits included and explained in most individual disability contracts. Definition of disability...
Read More5 Types of Retirement Plans for Small Business Owners
Small business owners are different from the average hourly employee in a lot of ways. One often-overlooked difference is how they plan for retirement. Although small business owners may offer a classic 401(k) for their workers along...
Read MoreThree Tips for Planning Your Income in Retirement
If you've been diligently saving for your retirement, you may often find yourself wondering when you can afford to set an official retirement date. The answer to this question can often depend on how much monthly or annual income your...
Read MoreChanges to Paycheck Protection Program
On Monday, Feb. 22, the White House announced several changes to the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) that went into effect on Wednesday, Feb. 24. These changes are intended to further target “the smallest businesses and those...
Read MorePhysicians: Why You Need a Financial Professional Who Understands Your Industry
As a physician, you've devoted a lot of time to educating yourself, building a career, and providing top notch care that enriches your patients lives, and in the midst of all that, it can be easy to overlook your finances. To ensure...
Read More3 Tax Strategies Every Doctor Should Consider
Being a doctor comes with a lot of stressors, but planning for taxes should not be one of them. As a doctor, you have been through years of hard work and may be looking for ways to help limit your tax liability and preserve as much of...
Read MoreWhat Physicians Should Know About Choosing a Financial Professional
As a group, physicians are among the highest-earning professionals out there—and this specialized and life-saving career comes with some specific financial needs. Because of this, physicians should seek out a financial...
Read MoreWhat Should Grandparents Know About 529 Savings Accounts?
Grandparents can often find themselves in a better financial position to save for their grandchildren's education than their own children are. The parents of prospective students may still be contending with competing priorities like...
Read MoreTime to Revisit Your Resolutions
Budgeting should always be the centerpiece of your financial resolutions Did you make a New Year’s resolution about seven weeks ago? For 2021, many Americans are making the resolution to adopt healthy habits – concerning...
Read MoreIRA Beneficiary Rules Directly From the IRS
Know what to do if you inherit an IRA from a spouse or someone else As we get older, it is likely that we might inherit an IRA from mom or dad – or we need to counsel mom or dad as they inherit an IRA after one of them dies. The...
Read MoreSectors to Consider if Inflation Continues to Rise
The beaten-down sectors from 2020 might be worth another look in 2021 In general terms, the bond market will rally when increases in the Consumer Price Index (inflation) are small and the bond market will fall when increases in the CPI...
Read More10 Ways to Stretch Your Money
We all want more money, and many of us would like to work less, as well. This may seem like a dilemma, yet there is a solution. The best way to increase money without working is to avoid spending it in the first place. Some people call...
Read MoreHow To Keep All Your Financial Accounts & Assets Neatly Organized
Don’t let disorganization become one of your biggest money problems. It’s easy to lose or misplace money. But unlike finding $20 in an old jacket, what if a bank or investment account containing thousands goes untouched for...
Read More5 Economic Effects from the Democratic Sweep in Washington
Joe Biden will inherit among the most challenging political and economic environments of any US president. With America reeling from the storming of the Capitol by pro-Trump insurrectionists, not to mention a raging pandemic, President...
Read MoreConsolidated Appropriations Act Provides Relief to Individuals and Businesses
On Sunday, December 27, 2020, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (CAA 2021) was signed into law. A $900 billion emergency relief package is included as part of this omnibus spending bill. It is intended to assist individuals and...
Read MoreTips for Tax Preparation
In 2020, the government gave taxpayers an automatic six-month extension due to the coronavirus. Individuals who were affected by the damaging wildfires were also given additional time to meet most tax deadlines. However, in 2021, the...
Read MoreHealth Care Costs Expected to Jump in 2021
Will your 2021 benefits include telehealth and mental health services? As we approach the end of the year, employees and employers are both wrestling with changes to employee benefits for 2021. While every year always brings about...
Read MoreChoosing a Retirement Plan for Your Business
There are a lot of options to consider, depending on your business model You’re an entrepreneur and you’re not looking back. You’ve opened your own business, whether alone or with partners, and you’ve achieved...
Read MoreCapital Gains for the 2020 Season Could Be Huge
When an investor sells a stock for more than the purchase price, the investor experiences a capital gain (it is simpler to call it a profit, but let’s stick to some technical terms for a minute). For example, if you bought Amazon...
Read MoreSmart Shopping During the Holidays
The holiday shopping season is in full swing. Shopping for holiday gifts is stressful but also a little fun, especially when you think about the joy you will bring to those who receive them. But in all the rush to get everything done...
Read MoreMaintaining Cybersecurity While Working from Home
With businesses around the country reducing their in-office staff to essential personnel only—in some cases, literally overnight—many remote workers found themselves setting up a full home office on short to no notice. But...
Read MorePutting the Best GDP Increase in Perspective
Remember back on July 30, the Commerce Department reported that Gross Domestic Product (GDP) decreased at an annual rate of 32.9% in the second quarter of 2020. It was the worst quarterly decline in history. And unfortunately, that...
Read More4 Reasons to Do Your Shopping on Small Business Saturday
When Thanksgiving rolls around, the holiday shopping season comes into full swing. While many people prepare their strategy for Black Friday shopping, a lot of them forget about the second shopping holiday that weekend: Small Business...
Read MoreEnd of Year Planning: Set Goals and Reduce Taxes
By the last third of the calendar year, you're likely to have a pretty good idea of what your annual income will be and whether any major expenses or big life changes await you. This can allow you to engage in more robust tax planning,...
Read MoreCoping With Market Volatility in Uncertain Times
Dealing with market volatility during uncertain times can be stressful, and these tips may help. 1. Focus on What You Can Control During times of economic uncertainty, you may be worried about your investments, your business, your job,...
Read MoreCOVID-19 Upended the Growth vs. Value Debate
History says that Value should have outpaced Growth during COVID – nope Are you a Growth investor or a Value investor? Or do you prefer a mix of the two? Understanding your style of investing is an important step in deciding...
Read MoreOpen Enrollment Season is Around the Corner
Reviewing your benefit choices to maximize what your employer offers: Open enrollment for employee benefits kicks off on November 1st. Before you plan your Thanksgiving menu, you should make the time to review your benefit choices....
Read MorePlanning for Retirement? Don't Forget About Long-Term Care
Your plans for retirement may include travel, home improvements, and more time spent with family. Few people enter retirement with the expectation (or even the thought) that they soon may be unable to live independently. However, this...
Read MoreTips for How to Start Your Estate Planning Process Today - For Your Future
Many people postpone the planning of their estates because they assume that estate planning is only for the affluent. Others may think that estate planning is similar to tax planning, which can always be done “later.” In...
Read More10 Tips for Small Biz Owners
Small businesses owners should conduct an annual assessment of their personal finances. Owners of small businesses have much the same concerns as everyone else, except they are personally responsible for the fortunes of their...
Read MoreStaying on Top of Your 401(k) Can Pay Dividends
Don’t just set it and forget it – tips for looking after your retirement money: Lots of investors never bother to check on their 401(k) regularly. But you should keep a constant eye on your funds’ risk level, whether...
Read MoreWondering Whether You Missed the Recovery?
It is only natural that investors would want to find some way to sit out bear markets and get back just in time for the next bull run. The belief that you can foresee the direction of the stock market is a seductive one. Some investors...
Read MoreThe Financial Planning Process: Why and How
Whether your goal is to build or protect your assets, the sooner you start planning your personal finances, the better. Having a financial plan in place can help you address common concerns such as funding your retirement, saving for...
Read MoreFinancial Planning for Every Generation
Financial planning is an important part of securing your current lifestyle as well as preparing yourself for what you wish to do in your eventual retirement. And while this importance may look different during each stage of your life,...
Read MoreRecord-Breaking 2020 Wildfires Are Not Over
Here are steps to take today to prepare your family for when an emergency strikes. California and the Pacific Northwest have to contend with wildfire season for six months of every year from May through October, with the last two months...
Read MoreInvesting in an Election Year
The world's events always affect the markets, and making smart investment choices requires you to look at what's happening around the world. But what about during an election year? How should you invest while the country is deciding...
Read MoreAvoid the Market Timing Trap in Retirement
After decades of adding to your retirement accounts, making the mental switch to withdrawal mode can be a challenge. It may be tempting to try to time the market to mitigate the risk of any sudden drops or ongoing turbulence. However,...
Read More12 Estate Planning Must-Dos
Many of you already have estate documents, probably executed many years ago. You need an estate attorney to look over your documents every 10 years or so. Here are a dozen points to review. 1. Do you have a will and powers of attorney...
Read MoreHow to Protect Your Wealth as You Get Older
As you get older and closer to retirement, your financial practices need to shift slightly as you transition from working and saving to relying on your nest egg. As you approach this stage of your life, you need to take steps to...
Read MoreWhat to Do If You're Working from Home Longer than Expected
As the threat of the coronavirus swept through the nation in March, many businesses sent their workers home, and now, as fall looms around the corner, many people are continuing to work from home. If you're working home longer than...
Read MoreAppropriate Checklists for Year-End Tax Planning
What are appropriate checklists for year-end tax planning? Tax planners often develop checklists to guide taxpayers toward year-end strategies that might help reduce taxes. Typically, suggestions are grouped into several different...
Read MoreDisaster Preparedness: Protecting Your Family & Your Property
Planning for a disaster is no different from other measures you probably take to protect yourself and your family from potential hardship, such as insuring your life, saving for retirement, and getting regular medical check-ups....
Read MoreHow Financial Planning Helps You Work Towards Your Self-Improvement Goals
Many self-improvement goals focus on stability and personal growth — and financial goals are often no different. From buying your first home to saving for retirement, planning your finances can also help you work toward your...
Read MoreStock Market Flirting Again With Record Highs
We might look back and marvel how during the dog-days of August 2020, the stock market reached a new high not seen since pre-COVID. Remember when the S&P 500 closed at a then record high of 3,386 on February 19th? And just three short...
Read MoreHow We Think About Money
Examining whether you have a healthy relationship with money is important. The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped our lives in unprecedented ways, forcing us to live closer together with some people, rely on video conferencing to connect...
Read MoreIs COVID-19 Delaying Your Retirement Date?
Recent surveys have indicated that many of us are rethinking our retirement plans because of COVID-19. In fact, one survey from the nonprofit group Life Happens suggests that a whopping 43% of Americans say they plan to postpone and...
Read MoreOverconfidence vs. Consumer Confidence
One is a significant financial risk whereas the other is a financial guidepost. One of the biggest obstacles on so many financial journeys is the inability to identify risk. That blindness to risk is due to a variety of reasons, but one...
Read More3 Retirement Questions to Ask Yourself
We’ve all been there: scratching our heads wondering what to do with all the retirement savings accounts. Too many choices can be overwhelming, until you step back and realize that there are actually only three questions. Once...
Read MoreAt Mid-Year, Keep Your January 1st Pledges
Do you have a will, investing in education or building a Freedom Fund? Amid the heat of mid-summer, do you remember your New Year’s resolutions regarding your personal financial planning? How are you coming with your to-do list?...
Read MoreGasoline & Food Prices Drive June's CPI Increase
All investors should account for inflation to maintain future purchasing power. You hear it all the time: you should make sure your retirement savings at least keep pace with inflation. But what is inflation and how does it really...
Read MoreHow to Keep Yourself on the Savings Track
While preparing a financial budget is a difficult task, committing to it over the long haul may be even more difficult. Here are a few tips to help you start your budget planning and keep yourself on the savings track: 1) Watch what...
Read More529 Plans vs. Other College Plans
529 plans can be a great way to save for college, but they're not the only way. When you're investing for a major goal like education, it makes sense to be familiar with all of your options. Mutual funds Mutual funds are an option to...
Read MoreHow Are We Really Doing During COVID-19?
Young adults and those making less money are hardest hit by the pandemic. The United States Census Bureau has been collecting data in as close to real-time as possible in order to provide empirical insights into how Americans are really...
Read More3 Financial Planning Steps
Organization, efficiency and discipline are the three primary steps of financial planning. Organization is knowing where your money comes and goes. An efficient portfolio means a better chance of profits, and discipline keeps you on...
Read MoreIRS Offers Relief to Retirement Plan Participants
New guidelines for retirement loans and distributions due to COVID-19 On June 19, 2020, the Internal Revenue Service announced new guidelines to help those affected by COVID-19 gain more access to retirement plan distributions and...
Read MoreRetail Sales Set Record Jump Going Back to 1992
Combined with surprising jobs numbers, hopes for a faster recovery heat up On June 16, 2020, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that U.S. retail sales surged a whopping 17.7% in May, as consumers returned to shopping and spending....
Read MoreFinancial Planning Tips for Small Business Owners
When you're a small business owner, you need to pay extra careful attention to both your business and personal finances. Your financial planning strategies should simultaneously encourage the success of your business while also working...
Read MoreHow to Make Savings Last Longer in Retirement
Whether you dream of a travel-filled retirement or would prefer to relax and enjoy spending more time at home, you're probably wondering what you can do to make your golden years as stress-free as possible. For many who have spent the...
Read MoreThe Ripple Effect of Housing on Our Economy
Housing starts down, construction jobs way down and lumber prices are up? As states begin to ease stay-at-home orders, communities across the county are starting to see “For Sale” signs planted in neighbors’ lawns...
Read More10 Tips for Your Financial Future
However much you make or save now doesn’t promise you a bright financial future. Life is unpredictable. Follow these 10 tips to prevent you and your family from money troubles. 1. See a lawyer and make a will. If you have a will,...
Read MoreABCs of Investing for College
Invest early. Invest often. Invest for growth. These are the basic principles of saving for your child’s college education. The earlier you begin a savings program, the more time you have to benefit from the power of compound...
Read MoreFitbit Reports That Americans Are Walking Less
The makers of the fitness tracking device Fitbit reported that Americans were less active during the spread of coronavirus, as we stayed-at-home and practiced social distancing...
Read MoreThe COVID-19 Risks of Trying to Time the Market
For the past two months, the market declines and market rallies have been historic, as COVID-19 introduced a level of uncertainty that was difficult to...
Read MoreHow to Use Your Stimulus Check
To help people suffering from business closures, stay-at-home orders, and other effects of the coronavirus, the government has decided to send out stimulus checks. If your adjusted gross income is up to $75,000 for an individual or...
Read MoreSmall Business Owners Guide to the CARES Act
As part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, the government has funded a number of initiatives to help small businesses. As you navigate this difficult time, you may want to look into the following...
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