Blog

6 Advanced Retirement Planning Strategies Every Wealthy Investor Should Consider

TYLER D. LEWIS

Tuesday, April 7, 2026

Do you consider yourself a wealthy individual? Most people tend not to categorize themselves or see themselves as anything more than a spouse, parent, sibling, neighbor, boss, or business owner. However, society does classify people....

How to Manage Concentrated Wealth: Tax‑Smart, Tactical, and Time-Tested Strategies

PATRICK J. CLIFFORD

Tuesday, March 31, 2026

In investing and wealth management, concentrated wealth refers to having significant exposure to a single asset or a few assets. There is a risk when an investor's portfolio is insufficiently diversified, tying an oversized portion of...

The Power of Early Tax Planning with a Financial Professional

TYLER D. LEWIS

Tuesday, March 24, 2026

Tax planning is a crucial component of personal finance and an essential part of your overall financial strategy. Failing to plan ahead can lead to missed opportunities for tax savings. The earlier you start, the more flexibility you have t

Building Wealth with Intention: A Guide for Young Professional Women

TYLER D. LEWIS

Tuesday, March 17, 2026

For young professional women, financial independence isn’t just a milestone—it’s a foundation for long-term security and empowerment. Yet, despite growing economic influence, women still face unique challenges: the gender pay gap,...

Passing the Torch: How Women Are Shaping the Future of Family Wealth

PATRICK J. CLIFFORD

Tuesday, March 10, 2026

The financial landscape is undergoing a historic transformation. Over the next two decades, an estimated $124 trillion will change hands in what experts call the Great Wealth Transfer. And here’s the headline: women will inherit most...

Elevate Your Financial Future: 5 Reasons You Should Partner with a Financial Professional

TYLER D. LEWIS

Tuesday, March 3, 2026

The journey to prosperity involves more than just a high income. It requires strategic planning, wise investment decisions, and a keen understanding of your financial landscape. On Financial Professional Day, explore how working with a...

Position Your Retirement Portfolio and Tax Strategy for Long-Term Wealth

PATRICK J. CLIFFORD

Tuesday, February 24, 2026

Managing retirement strategies and creating goals can help you stay focused and consistent in your financial efforts. It creates a sense of achievement while you make progress toward the pursuit of a fulfilling retirement and financial...

Smart Investment Strategies for Wealthy Retirees

TYLER D. LEWIS

Tuesday, February 17, 2026

When you retire, you need your money to work for you. After years of saving and investing, you want to know: "How do I make my money last?" Wealthy retirees are already at a great starting point. But even with a strong financial base,...

Legacy of Love: 10 Questions to Help Families Prepare for a Wealth Transfer

PATRICK J. CLIFFORD

Wednesday, February 11, 2026

Wealth transfer is more than just a financial transaction; it's an opportunity for families to pass on their values, wisdom, and a legacy of love. Navigating this process requires careful consideration, open communication, and a shared...

Guiding the Next Generation: The Role of Financial Professionals in Family Wealth Conversations

TYLER D. LEWIS

Tuesday, February 3, 2026

Passing down an inheritance can be a life-changing event and navigating the transfer of a significant amount of money and assets can pose certain challenges. Historically, inheritances don’t last. This is so common, it is described as...

Don’t Let Forgotten Assets Derail Your Estate Plan: What You Might Be Overlooking

PATRICK J. CLIFFORD

Tuesday, January 27, 2026

There are many factors to consider when creating a comprehensive estate plan. Forgetting or leaving out certain assets could potentially create time-consuming delays, financial complications, and family disputes. In some cases, dormant...

The Foundation of Financial Wellness May Be Simpler Than You Think

TYLER D. LEWIS

Tuesday, January 20, 2026

Do you believe you have to be a financial genius to manage your finances? Financial knowledge may seem like a lot to handle, and you don’t need us to tell you that. But we are here to tell you that financial wellness is much more about...

Fortify Your Legacy: Why Insurance Is the Missing Piece in Most Estate Plans

PATRICK J. CLIFFORD

Tuesday, January 13, 2026

A lesser-known estate planning strategy involves incorporating insurance into your estate plan. Including insurance in your estate plan is a way to provide your loved ones with a means of support and a way to safeguard assets from...

Your Financial Fresh Start: 12 Resolutions in 12 Months

TYLER D. LEWIS

Sunday, January 4, 2026

Do you want to get on top of your finances this year? Are you looking for ways to improve your fiscal health? Change may be difficult, especially when you try to change your financial habits. The process might be easier if you take an...

9 Essential Processes to Probate-Proof Your Estate Planning

PATRICK J. CLIFFORD

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Create a living trust The way a living trust can avoid probate is by legally owning the assets that then get distributed to beneficiaries according to the terms of the trust, thereby bypassing the court-supervised probate process....

Legacy Planning for Multi-Generational Families

PATRICK J. CLIFFORD

Friday, December 5, 2025

For many high-net-worth families, wealth is more than a financial asset—it’s a reflection of values, history, and vision. As families grow across generations, so does the complexity of managing and preserving that wealth. Legacy...

Spreading Good Cheer Through All the Year: How to Make Giving Back a Habit

TYLER D. LEWIS

Friday, November 28, 2025

Every year, the holiday season inspires a beautiful wave of generosity. Donations surge. Volunteer sign-ups spike. People go out of their way to support those in need or brighten someone’s day. But what if that spirit of giving didn’t...

Retiring on Your Own Terms: 7 Ways You Can You Work Toward an Early Retirement

PATRICK J. CLIFFORD

Friday, November 21, 2025

Many dream of working toward early retirement, but getting there generally doesn’t happen by accident. Retiring early requires financial independence that can last for decades, but that is much easier said than done. To get there...

Should You Keep Your Inheritance with Your Parents’ Financial Professional?

TYLER D. LEWIS

Friday, November 14, 2025

Many children will receive an inheritance after their parents pass on. In some cases, this may include significant assets. If you currently are or may become one of those individuals, it is critical to figure out how you plan to manage...

One Last Gift: Wrapping Up All of Your Financial Contributions Before the New Year

PATRICK J. CLIFFORD

Friday, November 7, 2025

The end of the year is not just a season for celebration and reflection but also a perfect time to ensure that our finances are in order. This includes crucial aspects such as wrapping up all financial contributions before the year-end...

7 Estate Planning Topics to Discuss with the Family over Thanksgiving Dinner

TYLER D. LEWIS

Friday, October 31, 2025

One of the more difficult conversations for family members to have is talking about estate planning. There are several reasons for this, including the reality of our own mortality and that of our loved ones. In some families, it is an...

Empowering Your Legacy: How to Create a Charitable Giving Plan

PATRICK J. CLIFFORD

Friday, October 17, 2025

Americans are very generous. According to Fidelity, Americans give over $400 billion to charities each year, most of which come from individual donors. Over the years, despite periods of economic downturn, giving has grown above the...

Safeguarding Your Social Security Benefits and Personal Information

TYLER D. LEWIS

Friday, October 10, 2025

Recent changes in the Social Security Administration and modifications to recipients’ accounts and payment structures due to the Social Security Fairness Act, which repealed the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government...

Preparing for Year-End Giving: A Thoughtful Approach to Philanthropy

PATRICK J. CLIFFORD

Friday, October 3, 2025

As the year draws to a close, many families begin reflecting on the causes they care about most—and how their financial resources can support those missions. Year-end giving is not only a meaningful way to express values and create...

How to Keep Track of Changing Interest Rates on Educational Loans

TYLER D. LEWIS

Thursday, September 25, 2025

In today's fast-paced economic environment, fluctuating interest rates on educational loans are standard. Keeping an eye on these changes is crucial as they can significantly impact one's repayment strategy and financial outlook....

Get to Know the Rich Relationship Between Your Financial and Social Life

PATRICK J. CLIFFORD

Thursday, September 18, 2025

When you think of your financial wellness, you are likely not considering how it may affect your social life or vice versa. While many factors may influence your financial situation, social influence is the component that is given the...

A Business Owners’ Guide to Tax-Smart College Planning

TYLER D. LEWIS

Thursday, September 11, 2025

It is estimated that about one-third of parents who are saving for their children’s college are concerned about how to pay for this education, and business owners are no exception.[i] You may worry about being able to manage college...

6 Tips for Small Business Owners to Promote Workplace Wellness

PATRICK J. CLIFFORD

Thursday, September 4, 2025

Work is stressful at times, and anxiety and stress among your employees may lead to performance issues and an overall lower productivity rate. By promoting wellness in the workplace, you may reduce employee burnout and make the work...

Wellness in Retirement: The Benefits of Social Wellness for Retirees

PATRICK J. CLIFFORD

Thursday, August 21, 2025

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...

How to Manage Your 401(k) Investments: DIY or Hire a Financial Professional?

TYLER D. LEWIS

Thursday, August 14, 2025

Managing 401(k) investments is crucial to planning one's financial future. Two primary ways to manage investments are to do it yourself (DIY) or work with a financial professional. However, the decision ultimately depends upon comfort...

Beat Inflation with Your Back-to-School Budget

PATRICK J. CLIFFORD

Thursday, August 7, 2025

Back-to-school season is always a busy time, but in 2025, it comes with a bigger-than-normal price tag. Between inflation, tariffs, and general economic uncertainty, everything from pencils to laptops may cost more this year. According...

401k Planning: 5 Questions to Ask

TYLER D. LEWIS

Thursday, July 31, 2025

When was the last time you took steps to optimize your 401k? If it has been a while, you are not alone. Research indicates that only one in three Americans utilize employer-sponsored 401k retirement accounts; even those contributing...

Retiring Early: How to Handle Health Insurance Until You Are Eligible for Medicare

PATRICK J. CLIFFORD

Thursday, July 24, 2025

If you are lucky enough to retire early before you become eligible for Medicare at age 65, you may have to contend with an expense you haven’t had to worry about while employed—the cost of health insurance. Health insurance isn’t cheap...

Investing in Your 60s and Beyond

TYLER D. LEWIS

Thursday, July 17, 2025

Once you are in your 60s, you are likely to focus less on growing your retirement funds than answering, "When do I retire?" And once you crack open your nest egg, how should you allocate its contents? The answer often lies in a...

What It Means to Be an Accredited Investor

PATRICK J. CLIFFORD

Thursday, July 10, 2025

Accredited investors are individuals characterized by their high net worth or substantial income. Being an accredited investor provides special access to various investment opportunities otherwise inaccessible to the general public....

How Artificial Intelligence (AI) May Impact Life Insurance

TYLER D. LEWIS

Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly becoming a fixture in many industries. For life insurance users, AI helps to target online advertising and helps customers learn more about what policy might work for them. AI also helps life...

Life Insurance vs. Annuities: Which is a Better Fit for You?

PATRICK J. CLIFFORD

Wednesday, June 4, 2025

Life insurance and annuities are essential financial planning tools for providing future independence. However, depending on the individual's goals, each may be part of a comprehensive financial plan. Life insurance- is used for death...

How to Make Credit Work for You as a Small Business Owner

TYLER D. LEWIS

Wednesday, May 7, 2025

Understanding and effectively using credit can be a game-changer for a small business owner. When managed wisely, credit can provide financial confidence to grow your business, expand your operations, and take advantage of new...

How a 529 Plan Can Benefit You: Estate Planning and Wealth Transfer

PATRICK J. CLIFFORD

Wednesday, April 30, 2025

A 529 plan may offer multiple benefits as part of an estate planning and wealth transfer strategy. It is a tax-advantaged savings plan that encourages saving for future education costs. These plans enable parents to save for their...

How to Optimize Your Social Security Retirement Benefits

PATRICK J. CLIFFORD

Monday, April 21, 2025

Social Security (SS) retirement benefits are a vital component of retirement income for many people. It consists of multiple benefits, including disability, survivor, and retirement benefits, and is an indispensable part of many...

How to Address Wealth Management in Today's Market Environment

TYLER D. LEWIS

Tuesday, April 8, 2025

Addressing wealth management comprehensively in today's market environment is essential for individuals and business entities. Given the dynamic nature of global markets and the ever-changing economic landscape, navigating investment...

Should You Be Concerned About the State of Social Security?

PATRICK J. CLIFFORD

Tuesday, April 1, 2025

Social Security, established in 1935, provides financial benefits to the elderly, disabled, and disadvantaged groups. However, there are concerns regarding its sustainability. Social Security is particularly concerning among younger...

From Passion to Profit: Top Reasons Women Should Start Their Business Journey Today

PATRICK J. CLIFFORD

Friday, March 21, 2025

Starting a business may seem scary, but it’s also a great way to turn something you love into a successful career. If you’ve ever thought about being your own boss, here are some top reasons why today might be the perfect day to begin....

Alimony and Child Support at Tax Time

PATRICK J. CLIFFORD

Friday, March 7, 2025

Alimony and child support are critical financial components often arising during divorce proceedings. These payments can significantly impact both parties' finances, particularly during tax time. Understanding how these payments are...

Aging Alone - Estate Planning for Single Adults

PATRICK J. CLIFFORD

Saturday, March 1, 2025

Many of us imagine a future shared with family or a significant other. But for a growing number of people, aging alone is a reality. If you don’t have immediate family or a partner, estate planning may feel overwhelming. You might...

Understanding the guidelines surrounding Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) becomes crucial as we navigate the complexities of personal finance and retirement planning. For those who have inherited retirement accounts or are...

The Social Security Fairness Act, HR 82 is a bill that was recently signed into law that repeals several decades-old provisions aimed at increasing Social Security payments for nearly 3 million former and current public employees that...

There are only two things in life you can count on happening at some point--death and taxes. In death, these two circumstances can come together at the same time. When a person dies, leaving a significant estate, there is the expense...

High-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) often face a complex financial landscape characterized by diverse investments and sophisticated financial concerns. They require comprehensive financial planning to preserve and manage their wealth....

Before the year ends, it’s important to review your finances with a financial professional. Here’s a simple checklist of nine things to double-check to make sure you’re in good shape for the new year. Review Your Tax Withholdings If...

Signing up for Medicare is essential to help provide you with the coverage you need as you age. But if you miss the deadlines, you could risk a lifetime of penalties. Here is what you stand to lose if you incur Medicare late penalties....

Periodically, companies will report massive data breaches, some impacting billions of records that contain personal information such as names, addresses, and Social Security numbers. Depending on the situation, it is possible that your...

Some may fastidiously plan the path they want their assets to take but not give their beneficiary information the attention it needs and deserves. Designating the appropriate beneficiaries is essential for proper asset planning....

Market uncertainty occurs when investors find it challenging to analyze current and future market conditions due to market volatility. Various factors, such as inflation, central bank policy changes, interest rate fluctuation, investor...

During the week of June 10, 2024, French markets were rocked by a government bond sell-off after a strong showing by the far-right National Rally party in the European Union election. With polls suggesting the party might win a...

The #1 goal of adaptive planning is to deliver superior outcomes Uncertainty is an inherent part of the financial sector, and nowhere is this more evident than in finance management and analysis. The reality is that perfect financial...

As we go through various stages of life, our insurance needs may vary significantly. Here’s a breakdown of the different stages: Early Adulthood (20s and 30s) Considerations: Affordability. Life insurance will be less expensive if an...

If you're someone who tends to avoid cable news programs, you may wonder about the best way to stay up-to-date on the current economic climate. Fortunately, there are more options than ever — and thankfully, not all of them need to...

If you're someone who loves nothing more than spending a relaxing day at the beach, you likely hope your retirement plans will let you spend much more time there. By applying ‘beach day’ lessons toward your investment strategies,...

A strategic roadmap for both DC plan sponsors and participants in 2024 In 2024, the landscape of financial independence is more daunting than ever, recalling the pervasive insecurity of the global financial crisis. Today, concerns that...

Potential pullback could lead to a new phase of economic adjustment As an integral component of the U.S. economy, consumer spending significantly influences economic trends and forecasts. Historically, consumer outlays have accounted...

Approximately 60 million workers contribute to a 401(k)-retirement plan. A 401(k) is a tax-advantaged retirement savings plan companies offer employees and is funded through elective salary deferrals. There are several benefits to...

Understanding the implications of CPI and PPI is crucial for investors In the ever-evolving world of finance, staying abreast of economic indicators is crucial for investors looking to make informed decisions. One such key indicator is...

Which One Fits Your Personality and Risk Tolerance? Both trading and investing involve purchasing financial assets for the purpose of growing the value of those investments and either earning a profit through a sale, the accumulation...

Did you know, according to CNBC, more Americans are expected to turn 65 through 2027 than at any other time in history? This rapid population increase of older adults is often called the “Silver or Gray Tsunami,” though many new...

Tips to set yourself up for a brighter future and enjoy the fruits of your labor Spring is a time of renewal and rejuvenation, as the world awakens from its winter slumber and new life begins to bloom. As the saying goes, "April...

Fixed-income investing means you loan money to a company, municipality, or the government. In return for the money contributed, they issue a bond, kind of like an IOU. The bonds have an interest rate attached to them, and you earn...

How can we Prevent the Cornerstones of our Communities from Crumbling? Mom-and-pop shops have always been the cornerstone of our economic communities, especially the smaller ones. These entities consist of smaller, commonly...

It’s your journey towards building a foundation for future financial growth For many younger adults, the dream of homeownership is often overshadowed by the looming challenges of student loan debt. The burden of educational expenses...

Financial literacy is crucial to a solid financial future and an enjoyable retirement. No matter your age, when you understand how to manage your money and finances, you can make sound financial decisions and take the needed steps...

Important 2024 Dates, Unveiling Tax Breaks for Homeowners & Tax Year 2024 and 2025 Adjustments The 2024 tax season is upon us, and it's time to get prepared for filing your taxes. Whether you're a seasoned taxpayer or a first-timer,...

Tips to pursue your financial aspirations with prudence and foresight Executive bonus plans represent a cornerstone of compensation packages for top-tier executives, offering a mix of incentives and rewards for performance and...

How financial professionals can help seasoned business executives For seasoned business executives, the allure of company stock can be undeniable. After years of dedication and hard work, owning a significant portion of one's company...

Backdoor vs. Mega Backdoor A backdoor Roth IRA transfers money from a traditional account to the Roth. The “mega” backdoor is a strategy employed by people with a 401(k) plan at work. It is often pursued by higher-income...

Independence is important in retirement. The more independent retirees are, the more fulfilling their retirement is likely to be. However, living independently as you age isn't always easy and may take some degree of planning well...

In a surprising turn of events, the Federal Reserve has taken a "dove"ish pivot, signaling a potential end to the rate-hiking cycle that has characterized its recent monetary policy stance. This shift has sent shockwaves through...

Sometimes, based on the movement of the market and your risk tolerance, you may look for investment opportunities with a strategy encompassing wealth growth while mitigating the risk of unanticipated loss. There are two popular...

Whether you’re 23 or 35, it’s important to know whether you are saving enough for your retirement. There is no time like the present to ensure you are allocating enough funds to your retirement account. With folks routinely...

The Gift of a Lifetime The primary purpose of life insurance is to provide financial resources for those that depend on you when you die. However, you can lessen the complexity of charitable giving through wealth transfer by using life...

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,...

Individuals and their families often seek to make positive societal and world change through philanthropic efforts. Philanthropy is one way families clarify their values and use their wealth to work together across generations to build...

A trust is a legal vehicle that protects your assets that contains instructions for your assets when you die or become incapacitated. When you set up a trust, you transfer assets from your name into your trust's name while you still...

Businesses generally are illiquid, which can create problems if a business owner requires care in a long-term care facility. LTC is ongoing care in a care facility, nursing home, or at home for those unable to perform a certain number...

Charity and philanthropy are two terms related to giving that are often used interchangeably, even though they differ. While the difference is subtle, it is essential to understand the differences between charity and philanthropy in...

Becoming a member of the military is not only a short-term experience where you can learn life skills and defend your nation during times of conflict, but you can also have a wonderful career, build a life, and grow your wealth with...

How to Avoid a Cyber Identity Crisis You may have thought your digital identity was safe and not a likely target of a cybercriminal until one day, the bank calls wondering if purchases made at a store that you have never been to, 2...

3 Reasons to Rethink Your Retirement Plan Retirement is a time that many of us look forward to our entire careers. It is the reward for a lifetime of work and the time to indulge in hobbies and enjoy much-needed vacations. While...

Talking about long term care (LTC) can be challenging, and it can be especially difficult to know where to start. How you choose to broach the conversation may depend on your loved one’s personality, age, health status,...

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...

The 20 percent down payment on a conventional loan is one of those “everybody knows” items, as in “everybody knows you have to put 20 percent down.” In reality, however, there are a variety of down payment...

Life insurance can be an excellent tool for charitable giving. Not only does life insurance allow you to make a substantial gift to charity at relatively little cost to you, but you may also benefit from tax rules that apply to gifts...

Nine of every 10 U.S. families with children have at least one working parent.1  Though working parents make up one of the largest demographic groups in the country, they face many challenges—from the cost of childcare to...

When it comes to 401(k) plans, some people may find themselves a bit confused about the 10% Federal income tax penalty for withdrawals prior to age 59½ and hardship withdrawals from a 401(k) plan. The Internal Revenue Service...

When your child first started school, you doled out the change for milk and a snack on a daily basis. But now that your kindergartner has grown up, it's time for you to make sure that your child has enough financial knowledge to manage...

Regardless of what you do or how much you earn, you deal with money on a daily basis. The more you understand about finances, the more effectively you will be able to manage yours.Yet, many people lack financial literacy skills. One...

In 2022, U.S. inflation hit a 40-year high, with prices for food, housing, gasoline, and other key staples increasing by nearly 10% over the previous year.1 During these uncertain times, stocks have continued a roller-coaster ride...

Do you know the answer if your financial professional asks you what type of investor you are? While it may be challenging to classify yourself off the top of your head, knowing what type of investor you are might help you avoid making...

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...

We all have dreams in life, and oftentimes those dreams cost money. If you have a financial goal or responsibility coming up soon or simply want to build up an emergency fund, follow these tips to help you spend less and save money...

The "sandwich generation" is the descriptive term for adults generally between the ages of 40 and 59 who are raising a minor child (or supporting a grown child) while also caring for a retirement-age or older parent. With financial...

Freedom is not won by sitting idly and hoping for a miracle. Financial freedom requires vision, courage, and sacrifice for a higher goal. The Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) movement is a part of that vision.What Is the...

At some point in your life, you'll probably be faced with the question of whether you need life insurance. Life insurance is a way to protect your loved ones financially after you die and your income stops. The answer to whether you...

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...

When you prepare to have your first child, the to-do list may seem endless—from purchasing a car seat to furnishing a nursery, lining up day care options, and planning for time off from work. These tasks, while sometimes...

In 2021, 44.7 million Americans are facing the burden of student loan debt. They owe more than $1.53 trillion in student loans. These alarming statistics prove the importance of saving for higher education. In the past, many...

What is a fixed annuity?Fixed annuities are long-term savings vehicles used mostly for retirement or as a safe holding place for accumulated money. Interest rates are credited by the issuing life insurance company for a specified...

529 plans are tax-advantaged savings vehicles designed to accumulate contributions and help pay for the beneficiary's qualifying education expenses. Sometimes, 529 plans have unused funds after the beneficiary graduates or decide to...

The Facts of LIFE (Living Independently For Elders)  Navigating elder care and elder care finances in the U.S. can be a challenge even for the most well-prepared households. So what, exactly, is involved in senior financial...

Getting Back on Track after a Post-Retirement Financial SetbackYou may have envisioned retirement as a second childhood—a time to relax, enjoy yourself, and devote your time to your favorite hobbies. Unfortunately, worry-free...

With all of the attention the life insurance industry has been receiving lately, it's easy for policyholders to overlook two important factors: 1) few investments, if any, meet the safety of life insurance and, 2) few investments offer...

If you've ever wondered why so many lottery winners (an estimated 70 percent) seem to blow through all their winnings so quickly, the answer often lies in two key traits: overconfidence and trusting the wrong people.1 The same...

Most people know that once they approach retirement age, their reward for years of work comes from Social Security payments they put money towards during their employment. Deciding when to file for your Social Security payments is...

Most often, the first question a prospective employee will ask is about your company’s benefit program. And in my experience, the two most often-asked questions are about health insurance and an employer-sponsored retirement...

Financial literacy refers to the skills and knowledge that allow an individual to make informed and effective decisions through their understanding of finances. Financial literacy starts by building a basic understanding of 'money...

Your credit report contains information about your past and present credit transactions. It's used primarily by potential lenders to evaluate your creditworthiness. So if you're about to apply for credit, especially for something...

Times to call your financial advisorMost of us go to see professionals when we’re in trouble or during times of crisis. Think about it. We go to the doctor when we’re sick. We go see a lawyer when we have a pending legal...

Searching for a new job is always stressful, even more so for older workers looking to change jobs or re-enter the workplace. As a more senior worker, you have the experience and wisdom but may be worried about competing with younger...

As more and more consumers search for financial information on the Internet, they may inadvertently leave themselves open to being “tracked” by certain companies and individuals. Visitors to financial websites have created...

It’s easy to carry the stress of home to work, and work to home. Doing so will most likely inhibit your time to relax with friends, family, and your productivity in the work place. Budget your time accordingly for each aspect of...

Getting Back on Track after a Post-Retirement Financial SetbackYou may have envisioned retirement as a second childhood—a time to relax, enjoy yourself, and devote your time to your favorite hobbies. Unfortunately, worry-free...

The romanticized image of entrepreneurs is a picture of youth: a 20-something individual with disruptive ideas, boundless energy and a still-sharp mind. Silicon Valley has bet on this image for years.But is this right?Far from it,...

Although the pandemic has put a strain on many household budgets, it hasn't been all bad news—in fact, more than five million people across the globe became millionaires during the pandemic.1 But even if you're not among...

Asking questions and planning will give you both peace of mindCombining love, lives and laundry is one thing. Combining your money is another. Newly married couples who both work would do well to think about what to do with two incomes...

A Step-By-Step GuideYou have probably heard about financial planning and its potential benefits, but you are unsure how to apply the principles to your life. A financial plan is a collection of steps that help you to evaluate your...

What is an estate tax return?When you die, you will leave behind all your property (everything you own) and debts (everything you owe). All this is called your estate. After the debts have been paid, the various items left in your...

Your Countdown to Financial HealthFor many people, a new year provides a new start—and nothing says "new start" like a fresh new set of financial goals. But setting these goals is easier said than done. What steps should you...

A framework to help you be among the 8% that sticks to resolutionsWill you make a New Year’s resolution this year? One of the smartest ones could be to get your finances in order. But keeping that promise to yourself is another...

What if you focused on your system instead of just your goals?Setting goals for a new year can feel overwhelming.  We all know that resolutions don’t last, but we also feel the energy that comes with a new year of...

Debt-to-Income Ratio ExplainedIf you’re considering purchasing a home, debt-to-income ratio (DTI) is an important term to familiarize yourself with. Your DTI can ultimately make it easier or harder for you to qualify for a...

There are chilling similarities – but fundamental differences, too.On December 7, 2001, a Gallup Poll ran the following headline:“Americans Say Sept. 11 Will Be More Historically Significant Than Pearl Harbor.”That...

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...

#GivingTuesdayConsider whether a donor advised fund can help build a more generous world.November brings us Thanksgiving – a day for simply giving thanks. The 11th month also brings us Black Friday and Cyber Monday – two...

What does an entrepreneur need to create a dynamic company? The right mindset is a big part of it.As an entrepreneur, you devote half your time or more to the daily hustle, making things happen and accomplishing goals. The other half...

Understanding Your OptionsOver the next 50 years, the age 85 and older population is expected to be the fastest growing segment of society. Unfortunately, along with aging, the chances of needing long-term care (LTC) increase. The...

Nearly 75% of American adults report that they don't regularly follow a budget, while 10% have no budget at all.1 A lucky few may earn enough, or have low enough expenses, making budgeting unnecessary. But for the rest of us, the...

Finances are dicey for those simultaneously caring for their parents and kidsOver the last 20 years, the median-age for Americans (the median age is the point where exactly half the population is older and the other half is younger)...

If you've never engaged in financial planning and are unsure how to get started, this article is for you. A financial plan starts by evaluating your current financial situation and future expectations and can be created independently...

Many parents pay for college with a combination of savings, current income, and financial aid. By learning the basics of financial aid, you'll be able to understand how the aid process works and compare the aid awards your child...

As your loved one ages, he or she may require medication for health conditions. He or she may also take over-the-counter pills, vitamins, herbs, and dietary supplements. While each medication may help manage symptoms, be sure that the...

If you've lost your job, or are changing jobs, you may be wondering what to do with your 401(k) plan account. It's important to understand your options.What will I be entitled to?If you leave your job (voluntarily or involuntarily),...

Life insurance has many uses, including income replacement, business continuation, and estate preservation. Long-term care insurance helps provide financial protection against the potentially high cost of long-term care. If you find...

Today, women have more financial responsibilities than ever before. How will your family or loved ones manage financially if you die? Whether you are single, married, employed, or a stay-at-home mom, you probably need life insurance....

One of the hardest things to do, by far, is realizing when a want is not a need.Budgeting is a balancing act. The secret to sustaining yourself from day to day while also working towards financial goals is building a budget that...

In 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 lessons from the golf course to your financial life...

If you're living paycheck-to-paycheck or stuck in a job you don't love just to pay the bills, it can be easy to feel as though you're financially trapped. But financial freedom doesn't need to be elusive—with some focused and...

We take it for granted that technology brings people closer together and improves our access to essential products and services. If you can’t imagine life without your smartphone, it’s easy to forget that people who...

Almost half of all adults are part of the "sandwich generation." These are adults in their 40s and 50s who are helping support or care for a parent while also supporting or caring for a child.1 Being caught between two generations of...

At some point in your life, you'll probably be faced with the question of whether you need life insurance. Life insurance is a way to protect your loved ones financially after you die and your income stops. The answer to whether you...

As recent graduates enter the workforce, they may need to make some financial decisions to help them prepare for potential economic uncertainty such as inflation, rising real estate prices, and a volatile stock market. If planned...

How long do you think you will live? How long does your money need to last? If you’re like most people, you get this age wrong.The consequence? Faulty retirement planning, overspending now, and running out of money before you...

You may or may not have heard of the Remembrance Poppy—but you’ve probably seen it. These red-and-black poppies symbolize those who lost their lives in combat, and it was these same poppies that inspired a profound poem...

With the average cost of tuition and fees at private colleges exceeding $43,750 in 2021-22—while out-of-state public college students are paying nearly $30,000 per year—saving for college might feel like a monumental task...

As a business owner, you may assume you do not need professional financial advice until you hit certain milestones such as $1 million in sales, having ten employees, or some other tangible measure. However, financial professionals may...

In late 2019, SECURE Act was passed as a way to help Americans save more for their retirement. In March 2022, the SECURE Act 2.0 has passed in the U.S. House of Representatives and aims to improve the goals of the original SECURE Act....

As a small-business owner, you may be looking for the next big thing—an investment that might double your profits within the next year or allow you to maintain your income while working just a few hours a week. However, business success may

Heading to your first meeting with a new financial professional may be a lot like going on a blind date. Can you have anything in common? Can you click? Can you trust this other person with what's most important to you?