Blog

Wednesday, November 29, 2023

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or any other form of dementia, this can be an extremely challenging time.

Wednesday, November 15, 2023

According to recent statistics, data breaches have become common in today's digital world. However, individuals can take steps to protect themselves and minimize the impact of a breach. CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, November 1, 2023

We look back at the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act to review provisions that sunset in 2025 and how you should prepare for them now. CL(Taxes)

Wednesday, October 25, 2023

Although the new laws will impact all savers in some ways, navigating the changes is a bit like putting a puzzle together, so we outline the highlights of what provisions of SECURE 2.0 go into effect next year. CL(Taxes, Retirement)

Tuesday, October 17, 2023

Top 3 ways that 2023's COLA adjustments will impact your 2024 finances. CL(Social Security, Taxes)

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Monday, October 9, 2023

As we close out 2023, it is time to think about year-end financial strategies to help set up your finances for 2023. CL(Taxes, Personal Finance)

Wednesday, September 20, 2023

Like most transformative innovations throughout history, AI’s possibilities have been met with a combination of excitement, skepticism, and fear. We discuss AI's origins and impacts. CL(Investments)

Wednesday, September 13, 2023

A Q&A designed to help you better understand what to expect from Social Security. CL(Social Security)

Wednesday, September 6, 2023

Over the last 25 years, returns in September have been weak. We take a look at the global anomaly that has become known as the "September Effect." CL(Investments)

Wednesday, August 23, 2023

This article will explain what wills are and share some benefits of creating a will in honor of National "Make a Will" Month. CL(Estate Planning)

Wednesday, August 16, 2023

Despite giving some returns over the last month, markets have been good to investors in 2023. We discuss what's been driving markets in our latest Market Monitor. CL(Market Commentary)

Wednesday, August 2, 2023

Credit card debt has recently hit record highs due to a number of factor. If you're in credit card debt, you're not alone. Here are some innovative strategies to help you manage your credit card. CL(Personal Finance)

Monday, July 31, 2023

Sending your kid off to college comes with a hefty pricetag. As you begin the college planning process, keep these 5 common mistakes in mind. CL(Education)

Wednesday, July 26, 2023

Looking for something to do while you hide inside from the summer heat? It may be time to organize that pile of documents. Here are some tips on what documents you should keep and what documents you should shred. CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, July 19, 2023

It's scorching hot out right now, and that includes the markets. We break down what's driving investments this summer. CL(Market Commentary)

Tuesday, July 11, 2023

While protection is never a bad thing, you want to make sure the value of the coverage outweighs the added cost. CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, July 5, 2023

If you find yourself with a bit of extra time on your hands in the upcoming months, you may want to use this time to check in with your family’s finances. CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, June 28, 2023

Estate taxes have changed over time, and will continue to do so. CL(Taxes)

Wednesday, June 21, 2023

Inflation is down to 4%, but the Fed says that's not enough. We take a look at what's been going on for markets recently. CL(Market Commentary)

Wednesday, June 14, 2023

In honor of Father's Day, we're sharing financial lessons from famous dads! Have you taken any of this advice? CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, June 7, 2023

A look at some Social Security basics everyone should have in mind as they approach retirement age. CL(Social Security)

Wednesday, May 31, 2023

Happy Military Appreciation Month! To celebrate, we're sharing our top 5 simple financial tips for military members and their families. CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, May 24, 2023

Mortgage rates are at the highest levels since 2002. To add insult to injury, a new mortgage fee rule will impose additional fees, at least on some. Find out how you might be impacted here. CL(Personal Finance)

Sunday, May 14, 2023

The debt ceiling showdown is adding uncertainty to the markets already dealing with challenges. Despite that, returns have been good this year. We break down what's been driving markets recently. CL(Market Commentary)

Wednesday, May 10, 2023

Women have unique strengths, and it just so happens that it shows in their investing. We break down what gives women investors their superpowers. CL(Investments)

Wednesday, May 3, 2023

Retirement is a major life change, and no matter how much you prepare, you won't know exactly how it will go. Planning and flexibility help deal with the big retirement risks. Here's how. CL(Retirement)

Monday, April 24, 2023

Since 1963 we have been celebrating National Small Business Week by recognizing and honoring the businesses that help grow our economy. Connect to your community and explore the small businesses that makeup America. CL(Personal Finance)

Tuesday, April 18, 2023

After a nice first quarter, the Easter bunny has delivered a strong start to this quarter as well. We discuss some drivers of today's markets. CL(Market Commentary)

Wednesday, April 12, 2023

With Financial Literacy Month upon us, it's time to review some basic financial concepts. Here are some tips to help you become more financially confident. CL(Personal Finance)

Monday, April 3, 2023

Investing can be difficult, even for the rich and famous! You won't believe some of these bad celebrity investments. CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, March 29, 2023

With inflation hovering near 40-year highs, you may want to consider an investment that can keep up with prices. Here’s how to get started with I Bonds. CL(Investments)

Saturday, March 18, 2023

March madness is here. The bank failures and stresses have caused turmoil in the market over the last few weeks. We discuss what's been happening and what's next for the banks here. CL(Market Commentary)

Sunday, March 12, 2023

FDIC insurance is insurance offered by the government to help protect your deposits at an insured bank. Learn more about FDIC insurance, including what it covers. CL(Investments)

Tuesday, March 7, 2023

Getting stuck with an unexpected tax bill can be stressful and unsettling. Here are five ways to reduce your tax bill to a more manageable size. CL(Taxes)

Tuesday, February 21, 2023

History is seemingly on our side for a good year in the market, but does that mean we are out of the woods yet? Not quite. We take a look at what's been driving the markets recently. CL(Market Commentary)

Monday, February 13, 2023

Saying “I do” later in life comes with a list of critical financial considerations. Here are a few things you should consider before you plan your ceremony and honeymoon. CL(Personal Finance)

Tuesday, February 7, 2023

It’s important to keep your personal data safe, both on- and offline. Learn some important identity theft prevention tips here. CL(Personal Finance)

Tuesday, January 31, 2023

Before you jump the gun and file your taxes, consider these essential tax tips to help ease the burden of the filing season. CL(Taxes)

Wednesday, January 25, 2023

Will the SECURE Act 2.0 change how or when YOU retire? We made a quick video highlighting a few key changes that take effect in 2023 and how they may impact your retirement. Click to watch! CL(Retirement, Video)

Monday, January 23, 2023

A new year, a new chapter, but the same storylines persist. We take a look at the markets and where we are at today. CL(Market Commentary)

Tuesday, January 17, 2023

The SECURE Act 2.0 is into law and brings multiple changes for retirement accounts, including changes to the required minimum distributions. We break down what's new here. CL(Retirement)

Monday, January 2, 2023

Start the year off right by getting started on these five top financial goals.

Wednesday, December 14, 2022

We are in the home stretch of a year in which nothing seemed to go according to plan. We take a look at how we got here, as well as some year-end planning moves. CL(Market Commentary)

Wednesday, December 7, 2022

The more you read the more you know! These 5 children's books are sure to entertain and teach fundamental money skills to your little ones. CL(Education)

Tuesday, November 29, 2022

Setting up a retirement strategy is one thing, but when and how do you adjust it? Our article will help you understand. CL(Retirement)

Tuesday, November 22, 2022

Giving season often puts a bigger smile on your face than buying things for yourself. We have five simple tips to make the most of your year-end charitable giving. CL(Charitable Giving)

Tuesday, November 15, 2022

Recently bad news for the economy has been treated like good news for the markets. We discuss why in this month's market monitor. CL(Market Commentary)

Tuesday, November 8, 2022

It's time to get in gear for your year-end tax planning. Before you go into full-blown holiday mode, consider these tax moves that can pay off when it comes time to file. CL(Taxes)

Tuesday, November 1, 2022

A small silver lining of inflation is that tax brackets, deductions, and contribution limits are adjusted for it. This may set you up for some tax savings and the ability to save more in future years. Here's how. CL(Taxes)

Wednesday, October 26, 2022

Since Halloween is known for tricks and treats, it seems fitting that Cyber Security Awareness Month ends on Halloween. Protecting yourself and your assets is essential. We review some of the best practice guidelines. CL(Personal Finance)

Thursday, October 20, 2022

After a rocky year, take advantage of tax-loss harvesting opportunities to cut your tax bite. We explain when this may make sense for you. CL(Taxes, Video)

Sunday, October 16, 2022

With stubborn inflation and strong jobs numbers, the Fed remains vigilant in tightening monetary policy to weaken demand. We discuss what's been going on with markets. CL(Investments)

Wednesday, October 12, 2022

You may be eligible for Medicare soon, but do you know the ins and outs of your coverage options? Here's a breakdown of Medicare Parts A, B, C & D. CL(Retirement, Insurance)

Tuesday, October 4, 2022

Did you know that you can claim a spousal benefit for social security? We detail a few important situations where you can claim spousal benefits for social security, even if you're widowed or divorced. CL(Social Security)

Monday, September 26, 2022

Inflation has soared, increasing expenses on many things like groceries. Here are simple tips to help reduce the inflation bite from your groceries. CL(Budgeting)

Thursday, September 22, 2022

Market and economic news can be especially stressful because we have no idea what’s going to turn into major headaches or cause a market meltdown. We have three simple strategies you use to beat the stress. CL(Video, Investments)

Wednesday, September 21, 2022

The latest inflation report hit like a gut punch, changing market perspectives, at least for the short term. We discuss drivers of the recent market movement. CL(Market Commentary)

Tuesday, September 13, 2022

Continuing care retirement communities provide retirees with a viable option for aging in place. We look at the basics of what they are and how they work. CL(Retirement)

Tuesday, September 6, 2022

Homeowner's insurance and its storm coverage can get confusing. We dive into details about what's covered, what isn't, and how you can adequately protect your home. CL(Insurance)

Wednesday, August 31, 2022

It's been an eventful summer in Washington, with multiple bills and acts passing. We highlight some impacts for individuals. CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, August 24, 2022

Starting with age 50, many years signify financial milestones that should not go unmentioned. We breakdown which birthdays have financial benefits you should know. CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, August 17, 2022

After retiring early during the Covid shutdowns, a significant number of people are un-retiring. Wondering how those earnings can impact Social Security benefits? We discuss it in our quick video. CL(Video, Social Security)

Tuesday, August 16, 2022

It's still summertime temperatures out, and inflation and jobs readings are still running hot. Can the Fed look forward to cooling temps in the coming months? CL(Market Commentary)

Monday, August 8, 2022

Creating a good work-life balance is not just for the working years. You still have to find that balance in retirement. Here's how a spending plan can help. CL(Budgeting)

Sunday, July 31, 2022

In honor of National "Make a Will Month," we discuss what wills are and share some of their benefits. CL(Estate Planning)

Wednesday, July 27, 2022

When life hands you lemons, make lemonade is the proverbial phrase that has stood the test of time to encourage optimism and a positive can-do attitude in the face of misfortune. CL(Investments)

Thursday, July 21, 2022

While we don't like to talk about credit, it is important, and recent changes have occurred. Settled Medical debt will no longer linger on your credit report. CL(Video, Personal Finance)

Wednesday, July 20, 2022

2022 markets have seemingly been defined by big inflation readings and the subsequent fed action. So far, July is turning no different. CL(Market Commentary)

Wednesday, July 13, 2022

The Thrift Savings Plan has come a long way since its inception in 1987 and made several big updates this June for plan participants. Let's break down some of the changes. CL(Retirement)

Wednesday, July 6, 2022

Want to learn more about investing? These 11 famous quotes should help! Explore the quotes and the meaning behind each one. CL(Investments, Personal Finance)

Wednesday, June 29, 2022

Inflation affects each of us differently depending on the goods and services we purchase. We are confident your expenses have increased. Here are some ways to help offset inflation during retirement. CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, June 22, 2022

The financial aspects of a retirement plan are essential, but finding meaning and purpose in your new life is also vital for success. Planning the personal side of retirement all starts with one basic question... CL(Retirement)

Wednesday, June 15, 2022

Inflation is driving the headlines and wreaking havoc on budgets. But for long-term investors – volatile markets are also in focus. So, how do you cope with the uncertainty and volatility? We have some pointers. CL(Investments)

Wednesday, June 8, 2022

Even though May was positive, 2022 remains a challenging year for the markets. We break down the key drivers for this year. CL(Market Commentary)

Wednesday, June 1, 2022

June 1st is the official start of hurricane season. Good preparation goes well beyond just getting supplies. Financial preparedness will also help you weather the storm. Here are some tips. CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, May 25, 2022

May 29th is national 529 plan day. What's a 529, how do you use it, and what are the benefits? We have the big 529 plan questions answered. CL(Education)

Thursday, May 19, 2022

May is military appreciation month. While it is always a good time to show thanks to service members, May is especially a good time to show that you care. We have a few good ideas for you to do just that. CL(Video)

Wednesday, May 18, 2022

Just as the birds and the bees talk was difficult during the teenage years, talking to your adult kids about your finances seems to bring the same angst. CL(Estate Planning)

Wednesday, May 11, 2022

In April, the market showers were stormier than we've had in a while. Do the April showers bring May flowers? CL(Market Commentary)

Wednesday, May 4, 2022

The Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) is an important retirement vehicle for service members, but what should they do with it when they leave their job? We break down the options available to you. CL(Retirement)

Wednesday, April 27, 2022

You might be able to plan for many of your retirement expenses, but there are likely going to be unexpected things that come up. CL(Retirement)

Thursday, April 21, 2022

We often feel like we "should" have it, but do we really need it? We go through three key questions to help you decide. CL(Video, Insurance)

Wednesday, April 20, 2022

t's time for spring cleaning, and if you are like most people, you are not really sure what you should be keeping and for how long. Here's what you should keep, and what you can toss. CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, April 13, 2022

The "roaring twenties" have been dramatic for the markets, continuing into the first quarter of 2022. What's been happening, and where do we go from here? CL(Investments)

Wednesday, April 6, 2022

Accumulating assets is only part of the plan. Learn how an umbrella policy can help protect your wealth. CL(Insurance)

Wednesday, March 30, 2022

College is expensive and sorting through the funding options can be confusing. We look at big picture ideas on how to overcome the potentially big expense. CL(Education)

Wednesday, March 23, 2022

Deciding whether a Roth IRA or Traditional IRA is better for you can be a confusing, but important, decision. Here are factors you should consider to help you decide. CL(Retirement)

Thursday, March 17, 2022

We are living in an age of overwhelming information, surrounded by social media and headlines designed to grab our attention. Here are three simple strategies you can use to avoid headline overload. CL(Video)

Wednesday, March 16, 2022

Just when it seems that the economy is putting COVID-19 in the rearview mirror, a new market-driving headline takes place. We share our thoughts on what's been going on in the markets here. CL(Market Commentary)

Wednesday, March 9, 2022

The Fed has signaled it is ready to raise interest rates this month. That can have impacts on your personal financial picture, especially your debt and investment portfolio. We have some ideas for you to be prepared. CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, March 2, 2022

Added to already high inflation and the market's uncertainty around the Federal Reserve, markets are now reeling from the added pressure of the war, sanctions, and its impacts.

Wednesday, February 23, 2022

There are a few exceptions to the 10% penalty on early retirement withdrawals from an IRA. Learn about one of the less known strategies that can be a valuable tool for those considering early retirement. CL(Taxes, Retirement)

Thursday, February 17, 2022

Markets are seeing frequent surges of volatility, and that's stressful. It is not a reason to panic and freak out, though. Volatility and corrections in the face of bad headlines are normal and occur regularly. CL(Video, Investments)

Wednesday, February 16, 2022

Ukraine + Earnings + Inflation = Volatility. A look at what's been going on in the markets through the first month and a half of the year. CL(Market Commentary)

Wednesday, February 9, 2022

Companies are giving the largest raises in a decade. It can be easy to spend that extra money on something big, fun, or exciting. Or you can turn the good news into a better plan. CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, February 2, 2022

The midpoint of your career typically corresponds with increased cash flows and responsibilities. That makes it more important to take the time to create a flexible financial plan. CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, January 26, 2022

Correction territory with crazy market swings stirs new headlines and can quickly usher feelings of panic and fear for some investors. Let's talk about market timing and if it works. CL(Investments)

Thursday, January 20, 2022

Three simple (but powerful) questions you can use to set the stage for an amazing 2022. CL(Video, Personal Finance)

Wednesday, January 19, 2022

Inflation, Omicron, and Labor shortages. 2022 has started out bumpy. Read our take in our latest market monitor blog post. CL(Market Commentary)

Wednesday, January 12, 2022

December's inflation number came in at nearly a 40 year high. We take a look at what the Fed is doing and what investors can expect in 2022. CL(Investments)

Thursday, December 16, 2021

It's that time of year when we realize just how fortunate that we are and when people tend to do most of their giving. Here are a few ideas for you to make the most out of your charitable donations. CL(Video, Charitable Giving)

Wednesday, December 15, 2021

It's not so easy to think about the final answer, how do you want your assets to pass when tomorrow starts without you. Here are five reasons to consider a trust as part of your estate plan. CL(Estate Planning)

Wednesday, December 8, 2021

The markets in November started out nicely before Omicron smacked that aside. Learn more about what's been going on in our most recent Market Monitor blog post. CL(Market Commentary)

Wednesday, December 1, 2021

We spend decades working and building up until the retirement finish line with hopes of rest, relaxation, and a life filled with the things that make us happy. Making that transition can be work too. CL(Retirement)

Wednesday, November 24, 2021

As a result of significant real estate value increases and inflation, you should be asking, “is my coverage enough?” It is a good idea to take a comprehensive look at your policy, what it covers, and how much you pay for it. CL(Insurance)

Thursday, November 18, 2021

It's getting close to the end of the year, but it's not yet time to shut down and go into holiday mode with your investments. We discuss three actions you should be considering now with your portfolio. CL(Video, Investments)

Wednesday, November 17, 2021

If you don't follow the Required Minimum Distribution rules, the IRS can quickly go from Uncle Sam to Uncle Scrooge. Fortunately, there are some strategies you can use to reduce your tax liability. CL(Retirement, Taxes)

Wednesday, November 10, 2021

October is known as one of the more volatile months, but it didn't turn out that way this time. We take a look at what's been driving the markets in our recent market monitor post. CL(Market Commentary)

Wednesday, October 27, 2021

Inflation has been rearing its ugly head, which makes it tough on fixed-income investors. Here are three moves to consider with your bonds to combat the impacts of inflation. CL(Investments)

Thursday, October 21, 2021

While the headlines are talking about the huge jump in benefits, we want to also let you know about some updates to the statements from Social Security and why you should be checking them regularly. CL(Social Security, Video)

Wednesday, October 20, 2021

Even if we consider ourselves open-minded, we have biases. Good, bad, or indifferent, these biases influence your feelings, behavior, and future decisions. We break down the four that we often see. CL(Personal Finance, Investments)

Wednesday, October 13, 2021

Markets had a case of the September scaries. Worries about inflation and a game of political chicken drove the headlines. Find out what's been going on in our latest post. CL(Market Commentary)

Wednesday, October 6, 2021

It's easy to begin daydreaming about retirement and the fun aspects of life after work. It's even easier to overlook one significant expense: taxes. Read more to learn 3 things you need to know about taxes in retirement. CL(Taxes)

Wednesday, September 29, 2021

The financial benefits of working in retirement are obvious, but the sense of community, purpose, and independence can also be invaluable. Learn more about how working into retirement can be a positive. CL(Retirement)

Wednesday, September 22, 2021

Round one of the tax proposals is finally here. While we do expect more changes in the coming weeks, here are three big things you should know about the first draft. CL(Taxes)

Thursday, September 16, 2021

Twenty years after the September 11th attacks, we look back and reflect on important investment lessons that continue to stand the test of time. CL(Video, Personal Finance)

Wednesday, September 15, 2021

Equity markets have advanced, even as the Delta variant has ravaged some states. What's been driving the recent market performance? We talk about that in our latest blog. CL(Market Commentary)

Wednesday, September 8, 2021

Before the pandemic, the Social Security Trust fund's finances looked bleak. After, it's even worse. Learn about what changed and how it may impact you. CL(Social Security)

Wednesday, September 1, 2021

Figuring out how to plan for tomorrow while living for today is challenging. Here are some tips to find the right financial balance for you.

Wednesday, August 25, 2021

While the housing market remains healthy, selling your home could be a good financial move that provides your retirement a nice boost. We've outlined 5 reasons to consider selling your house during retirement.

Wednesday, August 18, 2021

Although it's clear we are still dealing with the impacts of COVID-10, the pandemic sparked recession was relatively short. Markets have hit new highs this year. Learn about the key drivers in our recent commentary. CL(Market Commentary)

Wednesday, August 11, 2021

It's the time of year to get out the checkbook to pay for college education. Read the cliff note version of what you need to know to take penalty-free IRA withdrawals if you are under 59 1/2. CL(Education)

Thursday, August 5, 2021

Social Security taxation often feels confusing and complicated. Fortunately there are steps you can take to both learn how much of your benefit is taxable and strategize how to keep the tax bill down. CL(Taxes)

Wednesday, August 4, 2021

Millennials initially had a bad rap in the workforce. They also fell behind in wealth to previous generations when they were the same age. That gap is narrowing fast though. Read about ways here. CL(Personal Finance)

Thursday, July 29, 2021

If you go to the gas pump, lumber yard, or watch the news you know prices are going up, up, and up!!! Listen to us talk about the options you can consider to help protect your portfolio. CL(Video, Investments)

Wednesday, July 28, 2021

Is your estate plan a Dinosaur? As technology continues to integrate into our lives, your estate plan could be missing some essential strategies. Learn more about how to incorporate digital assets into your estate plan. CL(Estate Planning)

Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Things are getting hot this summer. Congress has a few impactful items for investors on their agenda for this month. Learn more about what's going on and what's been happening with the markets. CL(Market Commentary)

Wednesday, July 14, 2021

A common retirement goal is do not run out of money before you run out of life. One of the biggest risks is something called sequence of returns risk. Understand how this risk can affect a portfolio and ways to mitigate it. CL(Retirement)

Wednesday, July 7, 2021

Hurricanes can be unpredictable. Are you financially ready? CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, June 30, 2021

Depending upon your age and health, insurance can be relatively easy and inexpensive to come by; it's just a question of understanding the goal of insurance, the types of insurance available, and how much you need. CL(Insurance)

Wednesday, June 23, 2021

The dog days of summer have us thinking about, well, our dogs. Fortunately, dogs are pretty smart, and can even teach us a few tricks related to your 401(k) plan. CL(Retirement)

Tuesday, June 15, 2021

By far and away, the number one question we receive from investors recently relates to what actions investors should take with potential tax increases around the corner. Here are some things you should consider today. CL(Video, Taxes)

Wednesday, June 9, 2021

May had robust earnings, a lot of optimism, unexpectedly high inflation, and an apparent labor shortage. Despite that May posted another positive return. Learn more in our May recap and June Outlook. CL(Market Commentary)

Wednesday, June 2, 2021

While many people think of the will as the foundation of estate planning, trusts can be the cornerstone that allows you to name who will get your assets and control how they will get those assets. CL(Estate Planning)

Wednesday, May 19, 2021

You should treat your TSP as an important part of your benefits. If you haven't thought about yours lately, it might be time to do a little recon to make the most of your earned benefits. CL(Retirement, TSP)

Wednesday, May 12, 2021

The old adage “April showers bring May flowers” retrograded the calendar this year, as March showers, of cash in the form of stimulus, brought April flowers. CL(Market Commentary)

Wednesday, May 5, 2021

A change in the capital gains rules could necessitate some re-jiggering of estates to attempt to protect assets as much as possible from estate taxes. We talk about possible changes and what you can do. CL(Taxes)

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Let's step back and understand the differences between investing and trading and when each strategy may make sense. CL(Investments)

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

Worried about potential tax increases and how they can impact you? You are not alone. Read about strategies to consider to optimize today's tax code before any changes come about. CL(Taxes)

Wednesday, April 14, 2021

Inflation fears and rising bond yields created some volatility. Still, they have been no match for the stimulus, easy money, and the prospect of a “once in a generation” infrastructure package. CL(Investments)

Wednesday, April 7, 2021

A common question among people preparing for retirement is whether it is beneficial to pay off a mortgage early. The answer involves more than just financial math; it's also about peace of mind. CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, March 31, 2021

As you go about your family's Easter traditions, think about the lessons you can learn about investing. CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, March 24, 2021

Most advisors nowadays like to shout their fiduciary status. While they talk the talk, can they walk the walk? CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, March 17, 2021

Rising rates and stimulus checks are two of the factors driving the markets so far this year. Mid-way through March, here's what's happened with stocks and bonds year to date.

Wednesday, March 10, 2021

By taking steps to prevent IRS identity theft in the first place, you can hopefully avoid the headache and extra time commitment in dealing with the IRS. Consider these steps. CL(Taxes)

Wednesday, March 3, 2021

No one would just hand the keys to the brand-new car to a 16-year-old with a new driver's license, but no experience. We also shouldn't hand the keys to our finances to our adult children without getting them ready. CL(Estate Planning)

Wednesday, February 24, 2021

Florida homeowner's insurance rates have been going up. What's going on, and what can you do about it? CL(Insurance)

Wednesday, February 17, 2021

Winter is still here, the economy hasn't quite turned the corner, yet the markets have hit fresh new highs. These same few themes have generally driven the lofty values. CL(Market Commentary)

Wednesday, February 10, 2021

Deciding how to manage yours, mine and ours while planning your financial future can be the key to your success. Unfortunately, as with many things when it comes to finances, one size does not fit all. CL(Retirement)

Wednesday, February 3, 2021

It was more of a blue ripple, then a blue wave, but Democrats still have control of Government. The Democrats slim majority likely will pose some problems for them, here's why. CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, January 20, 2021

Markets have been anything but muted since the bottom on March 23rd, 2020. Stocks have shrugged off negative headlines, appearing to focus instead on vaccine and stimulus instead. CL(Market Commentary)

Wednesday, January 13, 2021

Just a few days into January and we already have surprises; a blue wave, the storming of the capital, and challenges to our freedom of speech. CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, January 6, 2021

An effective retirement plan has a lot of moving parts to it. It’s a good idea to think through the various decisions you need to be comfortable with before making the final leap to early retirement. CL(Retirement)

Thursday, December 17, 2020

For those that anticipate they will owe taxes and potentially penalties, some quick year-end planning can help you save money and reduce the “tip” you may be required to pay your least favorite Uncle Sam. CL(Taxes)

Wednesday, December 9, 2020

2020 seemed to turn the world upside down, with November being no different. With the markets looking ahead at vaccine rollouts, November delivered "all gas, no brake." CL(Market Commentary)

Wednesday, December 2, 2020

Donor-advised funds are known as the fastest-growing charitable giving vehicles in the United States. They can help everyday people gain several financial benefits on top of the heartfelt gift. Here's how: CL(Charitable Giving)

Wednesday, November 25, 2020

This crazy year, with seemingly more people in need, you may be inclined to participate more than usual during this giving season. Here's how to do your homework on a charity before giving. CL(Charitable Giving)

Wednesday, November 18, 2020

How do Coronavirus Related Distributions work, and who should consider taking advantage of them? CL(Taxes)

Thursday, November 12, 2020

Good news! The IRS thinks you will live longer. That means lower Required Minimum Distribution amounts starting in 2022. CL(Retirement)

Wednesday, November 4, 2020

While we would not blame investors for wanting to bury their heads in the sand for the rest of the year, there are still potential year-end tax saving moves to consider. CL(Taxes)

Wednesday, October 28, 2020

Try your skill at identifying fraudsters with a quick cyber security quiz as well as some steps you can take to protect yourself with your Schwab accounts. CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

Three things investors should know ahead of the 2020 presidential election. CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, October 14, 2020

The third Thursday in October is “Get Smart About Credit Day.” Even during retirement, good credit is still salient. CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, October 7, 2020

Worried about what happens with the market after November 3rd? Here's what we think investors should be doing... CL(Investments, Video)

Wednesday, September 30, 2020

HSA accounts are the most tax-efficient way to save for the medical segment of retirement expenses. If you can use the HSA as a stealth retirement account, why wouldn’t you? CL(Taxes, Retirement)

Wednesday, September 23, 2020

With college tuition rates remaining stagnant for the past six years, the Florida Prepaid plan is offering refunds and reduced payments for some participants. Who qualifies, and what do you need to do? CL(Education)

Thursday, September 10, 2020

Challenging events, like this year's pandemic, provide experiences that lead to wisdom over time, but only if we learn from those experiences. CL(Investments)

Wednesday, September 9, 2020

Check on your nest egg and make sure you are not making these common mistakes. CL(Retirement)

Wednesday, September 2, 2020

Starting with age 50, many birthday years bring different financial rules that you should be aware of. CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, August 26, 2020

The economist Thomas Sowell is quoted as saying, “It doesn’t matter how smart you are unless you stop and think.” Let’s stop and think about some stupid things that we see smart people commonly do with their investments. CL(Investments)

Monday, August 17, 2020

An update to our previous blog post, with updated rates and info about new fees that may make a refinance more expensive in the near future. CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, August 12, 2020

The state of Florida has 2 billion dollars' worth of unclaimed property. The problem is, most people don't even know they have lost property. Could that be you? CL(Personal Finance)

Tuesday, July 28, 2020

The impacts of the coronavirus is widespread and can quickly change a person’s economic outlook. Those over the age of 62 may have an income lifeline with Social Security benefits; should you take it? CL(Retirement, Social Security)

Tuesday, July 21, 2020

These ridiculously low rates should have you wondering, is it time to refinance your mortgage? Here are a few things to consider when looking at your options. CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, July 15, 2020

With the lower 2020 tax liability combination, the possibility of future income tax increase in current circumstances created a game-changing environment for Roth conversions. CL(Retirement)

Wednesday, July 8, 2020

Arguably, the most boring investment is also the most important. Here's why: CL(Personal Finance)

Monday, June 29, 2020

One provision in the CARES Act changed Required Minimum Distribution options for 2020. We re-post this blog from March of this year with updated guidance from the IRS. CL(Retirement)

Wednesday, June 24, 2020

Are you blindly following these 3 retirement rules of thumb? CL(Retirement)

Tuesday, June 16, 2020

Over the last several weeks, many have gone from having the fear of the financial impacts and bear market to the fear that investors are missing out on once-in-a-lifetime investment opportunity. CL(Investments)

Monday, June 8, 2020

Knowing if you are financially ready to retire can be tough. Here are 4 questions to ask yourself to help get you started. CL(Retirement)

Thursday, May 28, 2020

The end of 2019 brought changes to 529 plans that may open new strategic opportunities for you. Here's what you should know. CL(Education)

Tuesday, May 26, 2020

The CARES Act creates temporary special rules that change the impacts of loans and withdrawals from retirement plans, including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). CL(TSP)

Tuesday, May 19, 2020

There is no magic bean to become a millionaire. Instead, it is a slow, deliberate and rewarding process. Here are 3 steps to get you headed in the right direction. CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, May 13, 2020

Whether a buyout offer is right for you depends on your unique situation. If you receive a buyout offer, there are some important questions to consider before you make your decision. CL(Retirement)

Tuesday, May 5, 2020

As Florida's economy starts to re-open, follow the rules, focus on your health, and go out of your way to help our local Jacksonville businesses. Here are some ways to support our local shops and restaurants.

Wednesday, April 29, 2020

The potential benefits of the CARES Act go much further than the most widely known benefit of the stimulus money being deposited into your account. The CARES Act includes financial planning changes that can help you. CL(Personal Finance)

Wednesday, April 22, 2020

Let’s be honest. Between running our kids around to soccer practice, making dinner, and tackling that mountain of laundry, sometimes lessons we need to be teaching our children take a backseat. CL(Personal Finance)