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A Holiday Survival Guide for Your Finances
The average family spends an extra $1,000 or more during the holiday season. From gifts and travel to dinners, shows, and decorations, each purchase adds up.1 How might you take full advantage of holiday cheer while avoiding the...
Read MoreYear-End Giving: Should You Go Big or Spread It Out?
Year-end charitable giving is often associated with the spirit of doing good during the holiday season. It gives the donor a feeling of satisfaction and, in some cases, a substantial tax write-off. However, one question that often...
Read MorePotential Slowdown in Holiday Spending: What Business Owners Should Know
For many small businesses, the holiday season is the busiest and most profitable time of year. That's how “Black Friday” got its name; it often marked the first time businesses' books were finally "in the black" (showing profits) for...
Read More10 Things to Know About the Ten-Year Rule
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...
Read MoreCharitable Giving: A Family Affair
Booker T. Washington once said, "Those who are happiest are those who do the most for others." In 2025, according to Giving USA, Americans are predicted to donate an estimated $615.3 billion to charitable organizations, making America...
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The Business Owner’s Guide to Social Security: Planning for Your Future
Yes, even if you are a business owner or self-employed, you can receive Social Security benefits as long as you have been paying Social Security tax each year. The Social Security Administration defines you as self-employed if you...
Read MoreGive Back from The Heart
Charitable donations almost always increase during the holiday season. While it helps to donate money to your favorite charities, there’s a way you can give back that is equally helpful and fulfilling to those around you—volunteering...
Read MoreTaking Care of Our Caregivers
It is a special person that becomes a healthcare professional. They are nurturing, kind, and generous with their time and patience. Every day they go to work and care for another person’s needs. Over the past couple of years, with the...
Read MoreDon't Let Probate Cast a Spell on Your Loved Ones
Navigating the probate process is a legal, mental, and emotional process. The combination of grief, legal terminology, and a potentially lengthy process can be overwhelming. However, it is possible to weather this challenging time with...
Read MoreHow High Earners Can Build a Strong Retirement with Their 401(k)
Approximately 70 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...
Read MoreA Conscious Approach to Spending
Every day, you drive past the same storefront and glance longingly into the window. Wouldn’t it be nice to just stroll in, hand over your credit card, and walk out with that kitchen appliance, new outfit, or smart gadget you’ve been...
Read MoreWhy Financial Literacy is Crucial for Business Owners
Everyone needs to have some level of financial literacy to help manage their finances. However, financial literacy becomes even more crucial when you're a business owner. You need to become familiar with common terminology and business...
Read MoreUnderstanding Umbrella Insurance for Luxury Asset Protection
Owning luxury assets such as exquisite homes, cars, yachts, and priceless art pieces requires safeguarding them against potential risks or loss. This situation is where umbrella insurance comes into play. It acts as an extra layer of...
Read MoreThe Complex Waters of Aging Parents’ Finances
Tips to guide your parents with confidence As professionals, managing our own finances can be a challenge. However, one area that we often overlook, yet is vitally important, is understanding and navigating our aging parents' finances...
Read MoreShould You Keep Your Inheritance with Your Parents’ Financial Professional?
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...
Read MoreWhy High Earners Need Life Insurance Too: Helping Your Family and Preserving Your Finances
There are several ways high-net-worth individuals can benefit from life insurance. It is a vehicle that could provide loved ones with an income stream, it can be used as an investment strategy, it may help to lower your estate tax...
Read MoreHow to Keep Track of Changing Interest Rates on Educational Loans
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....
Read MoreGet to Know the Rich Relationship Between Your Financial and Social Life
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...
Read MoreHow Chess Can Help You Work Toward Becoming a Grandmaster of Investing
In a single game of chess, there are approximately 400 possible moves after each move played. When investing, there is also a seemingly endless selection of choices and critical decisions. The basics of chess could potentially help you...
Read MoreCaring For Your Family Members While Preparing For Retirement
The newest generation of upcoming retirees is facing a more unique and prominent dilemma than past generations have experienced: caring for family members at the same time they’re preparing for retirement. There are plenty of reasons...
Read MoreThe Quest for Perfection: Baseball and Investing
A Major League pitcher’s perfect game and an investor’s perfect portfolio Achieving perfection in any field is a remarkable feat, requiring a combination of skill, talent, focus, and a touch of luck. In the world of Major League...
Read MoreWealth, Success, and Mental Health: Finding the Balance Between Wealthy and Healthy
Today is a great opportunity to shed light on a topic often overlooked in the world of high-net-worth investors, which is mental health. For anyone who is used to managing substantial wealth, the pressure to sustain success may take a...
Read MoreWhy Financial Literacy is Crucial for Business Owners
Everyone needs to have some level of financial literacy to help manage their finances. However, financial literacy becomes even more crucial when you're a business owner. You need to become familiar with common terminology and business...
Read MoreFinances and Fireworks: 5 Strategies to Help Preserve and Celebrate Your Financial Freedom
Your finances are probably one of the last places you want to experience fireworks—unless they are celebratory. With new year's resolutions firmly in the rearview mirror, the summer months allow you to revisit your financial goals and...
Read MoreHow to Address Wealth Management in Today's Market Environment
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...
Read MorePlanning for Succession of a Business Interest
Business succession planning — what is it? One of the important decisions a business owner must face is when and how to step out of the business — in other words, business succession planning. Do you expect to retire from your...
Read MoreHow You Can Apply “7 Habits of Highly Effective People” to Your Investment Strategy
In 1989, Stephen Covey, an American author, educator, and businessman, published his groundbreaking self-help book, 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. Regardless of income level, age, or career, anyone can learn and practice the...
Read MoreShould You Be Concerned About the State of Social Security?
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...
Read MoreHow Artificial Intelligence (AI) May Impact Life Insurance
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...
Read MoreGenerational Wealth and the Gift of Financial Freedom
Those who receive an inheritance with the passing of a loved one are potentially given the gift of financial freedom if they choose to manage the wealth carefully. Did you know that only about one-third of adults have a prepared will,...
Read MoreFortifying Your Business: Asset Protection Essentials For Women Entrepreneurs
Asset protection is a crucial aspect of entrepreneurship that women entrepreneurs must be aware of, regardless of the industry in which they operate. In our current economic climate, where lawsuits and creditor claims are becoming...
Read MoreEstate Tax Changes in 2025
Understanding the anticipated changes in tax laws and regulations in 2025 will become increasingly crucial. One area that requires attention is the estate tax sunset at the end of 2025. The estate tax, also known as the inheritance,...
Read More10 Powerful Ways Women Business Owners May Gain a Competitive Edge
Starting and running a business may be exciting and challenging. If you’re a woman and a business owner, you may face some obstacles, but there are many ways to gain a competitive edge. Here are ten tips to help you succeed and stand...
Read MoreHow a 529 Plan Can Benefit You: Estate Planning and Wealth Transfer
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...
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 hefty tax bill....
Read MoreWhat’s New for Life Insurance in 2025?
As we look ahead to the life insurance landscape, numerous changes are taking place that seek to benefit consumers. The impact of global events has underlined the importance of having a life insurance policy, leading to an increase in...
Read MoreHigh Income, High Debt: 10 Ways High Earners Can Prevent a Credit Crisis
A personal credit crisis is something many people fear, as it can lead to financial ruin and burden an individual with immense debt. Fortunately, steps can be taken to avoid such a crisis, even for high earners who may seem...
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...
Read MoreLuck of the Investor: Making Your Own Luck on St. Patrick's Day
As Samuel Goldwyn once said, "The harder I work…the luckier I get!" 1 But when it comes to investing, luck may play a huge role in outcomes—no matter how hard you work.2 Below, we discuss some ways that luck may impact your investing,...
Read MoreBuilding Credit Confidence: Empowering High-Earning Women on the Path to Financial Success
As high earners not rich yet (HENRYs), women may find themselves in a position where their earning potential is high, but they may still have uncertainties about building their credit confidence. Establishing and managing credit is a...
Read MoreLTC Planning for High-Net-Worth Families
Long-term care (LTC) planning is a significant financial decision that requires thoughtful consideration and precise planning. This undertaking can be more complex for high-net-worth families due to a more extensive and diverse asset...
Read MoreFinancial Planning Challenges and Strategies for the Sandwich Generation
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...
Read MoreHow Portfolio Diversification Can Be Sweet Like a Box of Chocolates
In the world of investing, risk and reward go hand-in-hand. To help manage risk and reward, investors often utilize a portfolio diversification strategy that mitigates risk while working toward accumulation across asset classes....
Read MoreStrategizing for Success: The Parallels Between Estate Planning and a Super Bowl Game Plan
Just as a winning team meticulously plans its Super Bowl plays, individuals and families may benefit from developing a comprehensive plan for their estate. Estate planning isn't just for the wealthy. Estate planning is a strategic...
Read MoreDeath and Taxes: How To File Taxes After the Death of a Family Member
The death of a family member is an upsetting, traumatic time. Beyond the loss, there are also the day-to-day details, such as the deceased's last tax return. It’s a task that may feel overwhelming; however, if this effort is your...
Read MoreHow To Factor Taxes Into Your Retirement Planning
Retirement planning is not just about saving money — it’s about surviving on the money you saved and may receive in retirement, such as Social Security benefits. Tax considerations are easy to overlook when establishing a retirement...
Read MoreThe Mix of Investment Instruments You Choose is Essential to Your Retirement Investing Strategy
The percentage of adult Americans who invest toward retirement is nearing an all-time high at over 63%.1 These days it is far easier to pursue different investment instruments to manage and preserve wealth and over the past few decades...
Read MoreWhat You Need To Know for the 2024 Tax Season About Credits, Deductions, and Policies
The 2024 tax season is approaching, so be prepared for any changes that could affect your return. As credits, deductions, and tax laws change frequently, it pays to plan ahead to get all the tax breaks you deserve and take advantage of...
Read MoreOne Last Gift: Wrapping Up All of Your Financial Contributions Before the New Year
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...
Read MoreCreating Couple Goals for a Fulfilling New Year
While starting a new year might bring a time of reflection and renewal for many couples, for others, it’s filled with planning and implementation for exiting the relationship. January has been dubbed “Divorce Month.” At the beginning...
Read MoreFirst Time Donor? Here’s How to Start Your Philanthropic Journey
High-net-worth (HNW) individuals play a crucial role in fostering positive change and impact on a global scale. However, for many first-time donors, the world of philanthropy can seem overwhelming or challenging to navigate. This...
Read MoreThe Dark Side of Deals: Beware of These Cyber Monday and Black Friday Scams
Black Friday and Cyber Monday are great times to find amazing deals, but they’re also a prime time for scammers. While you’re hunting for bargains, stay alert to avoid getting caught in a scam. Here are some common tricks to watch out...
Read MoreFortifying Your Business: Asset Protection Essentials For Women Entrepreneurs
Asset protection is a crucial aspect of entrepreneurship that women entrepreneurs must be aware of, regardless of the industry in which they operate. In our current economic climate, where lawsuits and creditor claims are becoming...
Read MoreThe Pros and Cons of Locking Your Credit and Freezing Your Social Security Number
Your credit and Social Security number are two of the most important pieces of personal information that you have when it comes to safeguarding your finances and even your identity. Having compromised credit significantly limits your...
Read MoreLong-Term Care Considerations for Military Families
Military families often face challenges. Planning for the future is no exception. One important thing to think about is long-term care. This means making sure that you or a loved one has the help you need as you get older or when you...
Read MoreWhat Investors Need to Know During an Election Year
Election years are a time of uncertainty and excitement for many people. There may be concerns with social and public policy, and the implications of legislature on the market and personal finances. Historically, elections haven’t had...
Read MoreTaking Your Savings One Step at a Time: A Guide for HENRYs
National Savings Day, celebrated October 12, is a reminder of how important it is to build a solid financial foundation. For High Earners Not Rich Yet (HENRYs), the path to financial security can seem both promising and challenging....
Read MorePrepare, Don't Repair: Engaging a Financial Professional Before Crisis Strikes
Between work commitments, children’s schedules, and fall cleaning, how much time is left in our busy days to think about financial planning? Many of us choose to delay thinking about our finances until much later or to manage them on...
Read MoreOvercoming Market Uncertainty: Financial Strategies for Retirement Savers
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...
Read MorePrescribing Financial Wellness: A Pharmacist's Guide to Wealth Management
Like many other medical professionals, pharmacists often have much on their plate. Between managing medications, consulting patients, and keeping up with the pharmaceutical industry's ever-changing landscape, they may need more time to...
Read MoreThe Scary Truth About Loss Aversion and Fear of Investing
Loss aversion, or the phenomenon of experiencing losses much more severely than gains, can lead to unwise investment decisions. Whether you're hanging on to a loser of a stock for longer than you should or are afraid to invest at all...
Read MoreThe Motherhood-Career Dilemma: How Women are Balancing Both Without Sacrificing Either
For generations, the story that we as women have been told regarding how to strike the balance between motherhood and paid work has felt contrived and unrealistic. But increasingly, today’s women will write this same story for our...
Read MoreElevate Your Retirement Savings: What to Do After Maxing Out Your 401(k)
The 401(k) plan is an excellent way for HENRYs, high earners not rich yet, to save for retirement. Hitting the maximum contribution limit is a goal many work toward to reap the benefits of this tax-deferred saving strategy fully. But...
Read MoreSchool's In! Money Management Tips for Parents, Back-to-School Edition
Education has become increasingly expensive for parents, especially for those hoping to help their children stave off the burden of massive student debt. This may include having to contend with soaring inflation, spikes in cost of...
Read MoreWhy Retirement is a Prime Time to Start a Business
Many near-retirees view their upcoming retirement as a time to kick back, relax, and make memories with loved ones. But for some, retirement may offer the opportunity to work for yourself instead of working for someone else....
Read MorePreparing for The Great Wealth Transfer: What Every Millennial Should Know
Over the next few decades, one of the most significant wealth transfers in history is that baby boomers will pass down an estimated $30 trillion in assets to their heirs. Termed 'The Great Wealth Transfer,' this immense wealth transfer...
Read MoreBeachside Investing: Navigating the Financial Seas
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,...
Read MoreThe Sandwich Generation and Retirement
Overcoming the Dual-Caregiving Dilemma The "Sandwich Generation" is composed of adults who are ‘sandwiched’ between competing financial responsibilities. Many Sandwich Gen members support their aging parents while also providing for...
Read MoreNavigating Debt and Student Loans as a HENRY
Steps Towards Financial Freedom For HENRYs — High Earners [who are] Not Rich Yet — this high salary often comes at the expense of hefty student loans or other types of debt. Tackling this debt now can allow you to put your salary to...
Read MoreGiving Both Rewards the Soul and Benefits the Wallet
Ten Benefits of Charitable Giving for High-Net-Worth Individuals Charitable giving is an integral part of many high-net-worth (HNW) individuals' financial strategy, not only as a means of helping others but also for the numerous...
Read MoreBudgeting: Calculating Your Net Worth
What Is Net Worth? Your net worth is your personal bottom line. It's what your total holdings are worth after subtracting all of your financial obligations. In financial terms, your net worth is equal to your total assets minus your...
Read MoreThe Risks of Being Rich
Insurance Coverage Considerations for High-Net-Worth Families Financial affluence often comes with various benefits and challenges, including the requirement for suitable insurance coverage. High-net-worth (HNW) families typically have...
Read MoreHigh Earners and Homeownership: Why It's More Than Just a Status Symbol
For generations, homeownership has been billed as the hallmark of the American Dream. However, for high earners, it can also be a way to reduce taxes, receive more favorable capital gains treatment, and invest in their family's future....
Read MoreAnnuities Unveiled: The Secret Weapon for Wealthy Investors
Annuities are investment strategies offered by insurance companies that provide a steady income stream in retirement. These financial vehicles may particularly appeal to high-net-worth (HNW) investors for various reasons. At their core...
Read MoreRich vs. Wealthy - Is There Really a Difference?
The terms "rich" and "wealthy" are often used interchangeably. But are they really the same? As the saying goes, "Money talks, but wealth whispers." Here are some of the differences between being rich and being wealthy in terms of...
Read More529 Plans Demystified: What Affluent Families Need to Know
As an affluent family, planning for your children's education is likely a top priority. You want to ensure that they have access to the best education possible without worrying about the high cost of tuition; this is where 529 plans...
Read MoreWhy High Earners Need Life Insurance Too
Helping Your Family and Preserving Your Finances There are several ways high-net-worth individuals can benefit from life insurance. It is a vehicle that could provide loved ones with an income stream, it can be used as an investment...
Read MoreMilitary Benefits for Former Service Members, Veterans, and Families
Just because your military service is up doesn’t mean your benefits disappear. You spent many years of your life serving and protecting your country. With that sacrifice, you can access various benefits created to help you readjust to...
Read MoreTackle Your Tax Burden with a Well-Designed Life Insurance Policy
For many high-net-worth (HNW) individuals, managing finances and minimizing their tax burden are top priorities. One strategy that often gets overlooked in the pursuit of reducing taxes is life insurance. While life insurance is...
Read MoreWorried About Life After Work?
Get More Out of Your Social Security Benefits With These Tips Social Security benefits are critical to retirement planning. These monthly benefits provide a financial safety net for millions of Americans. But you must navigate the...
Read MoreWealth, Success, and Mental Health
Finding the Balance Between Wealthy and Healthy April marks Stress Awareness Month, which provides a great opportunity to shed light on a topic often overlooked in the world of high-net-worth investors, which is mental health. For...
Read MoreThriving Through Financial Stress
Lessons for High-Net-Worth Families April is Stress Awareness Month, and there's no better time to reflect on and address the stressors that may impact our lives. Financial stress is an interesting challenge for high-net-worth...
Read More10 Tips to Help HNW Individuals Avoid an "F" On Their Financial Literacy Report Card
Financial literacy is essential for everyone but can be crucial for high-net-worth (HNW) individuals who may have more wealth to lose than others. Navigating the complex financial landscape is no small task, and having the foundation...
Read MoreHow can we Prevent the Cornerstones of our Communities from Crumbling?
Ways to Support Mom-and-Pop Businesses Mom-and-pop shops have always been the cornerstone of our economic communities, especially the smaller ones. These entities consist of smaller, commonly family-owned-and-operated businesses...
Read MoreDon’t Let Someone Go on Vacation on Your Dime
How to Keep Your Money Safe from Scammers Technology continues to grow and evolve, allowing us to stay connected and perform many daily tasks from home. There is a drawback to technology, however. It often leaves us more vulnerable to...
Read MoreHow to Navigate Credit Card Debt as a HENRY
Credit card debt can be a daunting challenge for anyone, but it may also be burdensome for a specific demographic exhibited in the acronym HENRY - high earner, not rich yet. HENRYs, often characterized by high incomes, may experience...
Read MorePearls of Wisdom: Wealth Preservation for High-Net-Worth Women
Wealth preservation is essential for high-net-worth (HNW) individuals, but it warrants a gender-specific focus, too. Particularly for HNW women, understanding the complexities of wealth preservation is crucial. Whether due to...
Read More4 Tax Planning Tips for High-Net-Worth Families
Tax planning might be complex, but it's also essential—especially for high-net-worth families, where missing tax breaks or failing to optimize income could cost significant dollars, maybe millions, over a lifetime. And even in...
Read MoreLegacy of Love: 10 Questions to Help Families Prepare for a Wealth Transfer
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...
Read MoreStrategizing for Success: The Parallels Between Estate Planning and a Super Bowl Game Plan
Just as a winning team meticulously plans its Super Bowl plays, individuals and families may benefit from developing a comprehensive plan for their estate. Estate planning isn't just for the wealthy. Estate planning is a strategic move...
Read MoreStrategic Spending: Wise Habits for Long-Term Care For High-Net-Worth Individuals
As high-net-worth individuals navigate the complexities of financial planning during their working years, one critical aspect often goes overlooked—long-term care. In 2021, the median monthly cost of a private room in a nursing...
Read MoreProtecting Your Tax Identity Doesn't Have to Be Taxing
When you think of identity theft, you may think of unauthorized credit card payments or new lines of credit. However, tax identity theft is one of the most common types of identity theft — and it’s also the most common...
Read MoreKey Financial Wellness Metrics for Near-Retirement Individuals
As one approaches retirement, monitoring your financial situation by understanding your net worth and assessing the assets and resources needed to maintain a comfortable lifestyle throughout retirement is vital. This article explores...
Read MoreFinancial Resolutions for Individuals Nearing Retirement
Getting close to retirement is exciting, but it often brings a little worry about your financial future. The closer you get, the more you may be concerned with the rising living costs and if your finances are on track to allow you to...
Read MoreHealthy Financial Behaviors for High-Net-Worth Individuals
For high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), implementing healthy financial behaviors is crucial to maintaining their assets and growing wealth. Regardless of having significant financial means, embracing healthy financial behaviors must...
Read MoreStock Market Stocking Stuffers
How To Give Stock as a Gift If you struggle to find a gift for the person who has everything—or want to do your holiday shopping without having to leave the house—consider giving stock as a gift. Doing so is easier than you...
Read MoreThe Fundamentals of Disability Insurance
Disability insurance pays benefits when you are unable to earn a living because you are sick or injured. Most disability policies pay you a benefit that replaces a percentage of your earned income when you can't work. Why would you...
Read More3 Steps to Strategic Philanthropy
What would you do if you had unlimited funds to donate to charity? Would you focus on causes and organizations that make a difference locally or donate to international organizations? Are your donations providing immediate relief to...
Read MoreYour Traditional 401(k) Year-End Review Checklist
A 401(k) plan is one of the most popular and effective techniques for saving for your retirement. A company will automatically withdraw and contribute money from each paycheck to your 401(k) plan. Some employers will even match a...
Read MoreCaregiving: A Decision That May Impact Your Retirement Savings
Many women have been a caregiver while raising children. Still, now many are caring for a loved one out of necessity as the older family member can no longer care for themselves. The Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies report,...
Read MoreMaximizing Military Retirement Benefits
Retiring from the military is a profound accomplishment. For many, this retirement will provide you with positive things, including the time and geographic stability you need to start a new career or simply enjoy leisure activities...
Read MoreHigh-Net-Worth Individuals and the Benefits of Philanthropy
High-net-worth (HNW) individuals have investable assets of a million dollars or more. Their substantial monetary resources often put them in a position to contribute monetarily and significantly improve society. The value of...
Read MoreWhat Gen Xers, Millennials, and Baby Boomers Need to Know About Financial Planning?
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...
Read MoreSuccession Planning for Women Business Owners
Women entrepreneurs face a unique set of hurdles when it comes to starting new businesses, particularly in a post-pandemic world. In 2021, women started about 40 percent of all new businesses, and this figure has remained fairly steady...
Read MoreHow secure is your data when it’s stored in the cloud?
As cloud storage becomes more common, data security is an increasing concern. Companies and schools have been increasing their use of services like Google Drive for some time, and lots of individual users also store files on Dropbox,...
Read MoreA Business Owner’s Guide to Long-Term Care Planning
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...
Read MoreMoving Your 401(k) to a Roth IRA Tax-Free?
Question I made after-tax contributions to my 401(k). When I retire, can I roll that money into a Roth IRA tax-free? Answer Yes. After-tax funds can be segregated from other funds in the account and transferred directly to a Roth IRA....
Read MoreA Growing Trend: Women Entrepreneurs
The business landscape is continually changing—technological advances, corporate downsizing, restructuring, and telecommuting have reshaped the marketplace. Although these improvements and modifications have a great impact...
Read MoreABCs of Financial Aid
It's hard to talk about college without mentioning financial aid. Yet this pairing isn't a marriage of love, but one of necessity. In many cases, financial aid may be the deciding factor in whether your child attends the college of his...
Read MoreCommon Cents: Financial Tips Everyone Should Know
Few U.S. high schools have comprehensive personal finance programs, which means that some teens enter adulthood without a deep base of knowledge on topics like investing, budgeting, and consumer debt. Even those who feel they're fairly...
Read MoreThe Facts of LIFE (Living Independently For Elders): Financial Planning and Senior Independence
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 planning? What steps can you take now to help you be prepared...
Read MoreCreative Ways to Lower the Cost of College
Even with all of your savvy college shopping and research about financial aid, college costs may still be prohibitive. At these prices, you expect you'll need to make substantial financial sacrifices to send your child to college. Or...
Read More10 Terms Every Investor Should Know
If you're new to investing, you may encounter some unfamiliar jargon. Understanding the following terms may help you become a more confident investor.PortfolioAn investment portfolio is a collection of investments owned by an...
Read MoreTips to Shape Up Your Fiscal Fitness this Summer
Many people realize that the best way to stay in shape is to develop an appropriate fitness regimen and then stick with it. If you start a fitness program and drop out, you never give yourself a chance to become physically fit. In the...
Read MoreThe Great Wealth Transfer: Is Your Family Prepared?
Over the next twenty years, a wealth transfer will occur that exceeds $30 trillion as the Baby Boomer generation passes the remainder of their wealth to the Millennials and subsequent generations. The Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964) are...
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 MoreAcquaint Grown Children with Your Financial Affairs
Many parents may feel it is unnecessary to inform their adult children about their personal, financial affairs. However, as your children grow older, it can work to your advantage—and that of your entire family— to share...
Read MoreFinances and Fireworks: 5 Strategies to Help Preserve and Celebrate Your Financial Freedom
Your finances are probably one of the last places you want to experience fireworks—unless they are celebratory. With new year's resolutions firmly in the rearview mirror, the summer months allow you to revisit your financial...
Read MoreSmall Business Owners: Are You Retirement Ready (or Not)?
Whether you are an employee in corporate America or a small business owner, retirement is a part of life. For many, the thought of retiring and whether or not you are ready to take those first steps might be overwhelming or...
Read MoreThe Sandwich Generation: Caring for Parents and Children Simultaneously
As the U.S. population continues to age, the “sandwich generation” is caught in the middle, supporting both their parents and their children, whether financially, physically, or emotionally. This...
Read MoreBoosting Employees’ Savings and Keeping Talent
Employer-sponsored retirement plans, such as 401(k) or 403(b) plans, have become an essential part of the benefits package offered by companies to attract and retain employees. One of the key features of these plans is the employer's...
Read More3 Ways Planning For Retirement is Like Planning For Summer Break
For kids, teens, and college students, summer break often represents freedom from schedules, responsibilities, and all those other drains on your time. Retirement actually can provide a similar level of freedom, but only if you've...
Read MoreBusiness Planning for Continuity
For the owner of an interest in a small- to medium-sized business, such as a proprietorship, partnership, or corporation, the problem of an untimely death cannot be underscored too markedly.In the first place, the very viability of the...
Read MoreTips for Controlling the Rising Cost of Healthcare
Keeping a lid on rising health care costs will likely remain at the forefront for organizations this year, for good reason. A confluence of factors – including widespread inflation, economic instability and increased health care...
Read MoreEmployers Need to Offer Employees Uber-Tech
In today's hyper-connected world, employees expect more than just a paycheck from their employers. They want to be part of something bigger, feel valued and appreciated, and work in an environment that fosters growth and development....
Read MoreMedical Professionals - A Prescription for Your Financial Health
The demands on medical practitioners today can seem overwhelming. It's no secret that health-care delivery is changing, and those changes are reflected in the financial issues that health-care professionals face every day. You must...
Read MoreEmployee Benefits for Special Circumstances
Most competitive employee benefit packages provide retirement, vacation, health, vision, dental, basic life, and disability insurance benefits, yet business owners might also consider additional programs to grab the attention of...
Read More5 Trends Will Define Employee Benefits in 2023
Employee benefits are an important part of any company's strategy to attract and retain top talent. As the workforce continues to evolve, employee benefit trends are also changing to meet the needs of employees. Here are five trends...
Read More5 Stress Management Secrets to Avoiding Business Owner Burnout
Starting a company from scratch can be stressful, no matter how well-prepared you are. Many entrepreneurs can be vulnerable to burnout, which can quickly turn a dream business into a nightmare. What can business owners do to reduce...
Read MoreOffering Employee Benefits
What is it? In today's competitive job market, an attractive employee benefit package can be a useful tool to help you recruit new employees and retain those who are crucial to your company's success. In addition, the tax benefits you...
Read MoreBank Alternatives for Diversifying Cash Holdings
Options for biz owners in the wake of the SVB and Signature Bank failuresAs 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...
Read MoreSilicon Valley Bank Is the 2nd Largest Bank Failure
The FDIC-seizure of Silicon Valley Bank is the second-largest US bank failure in history as it held $209 billion in assets at the time of its collapse. Even after adjusting for inflation, by assets it trails only Washington Mutual,...
Read More2023 Tax Guide to Fringe Benefits Released
The IRS has released the 2023 final version of its Publication 15-B (The Employer’s Tax Guide to Fringe Benefits).The “What’s New” section of the publication includes information on the 2023 business...
Read More6 Money Myths That Are Limiting Your Wealth
When people think of “myths,” they often think of such stories as Pandora’s Box (the woman who took the lid off of a jar releasing all of the world’s ills upon the world, were taxes one of them?), or the Tale of...
Read MoreIRS Increases 401(k) Limit By Record Amounts
On October 21st, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced that the amount individuals can contribute to their 401(k) plans in 2023 has increased to $22,500, up from $20,500 for 2022. The IRS today also issued technical guidance...
Read MoreSaving for Retirement Through 403(b) Plans
For all employers, offering retirement benefits can play a fundamental role in recruiting and retaining qualified employees. Yet, despite the obvious advantages that come with helping workers save for retirement, many not-for-profit...
Read MoreBenefits of Incorporating Lifetime Income Strategies in Your Company’s Retirement Plan
Lifetime income (LTI) strategies, such as target income payout funds or annuities within company-sponsored retirement plans, are designed to help investors plan for and manage their accumulated wealth after retirement. However, these...
Read MoreRetirement Plan Sponsors Have Ultimate Responsibility for Operational Compliance
Retirement plan sponsors have incredibly important responsibilities to their plan participants—and even sponsors who rely on third-party administrators (TPAs) to administer their plans maintain this fiduciary duty. What should...
Read MoreWhy Plan Sponsors Are Feeling More Responsible for Employee Financial Wellness
Bank of America's Workplace Benefits Report recently revealed that a whopping 19 in 20 surveyed employers felt responsible for their employees' financial wellness.1 But because financial wellness is such a holistic concept,...
Read MoreWhat Business Owners and Employers Need to Know About State-Mandated Retirement Plans
State-mandated retirement plans result from legislation requiring employers to provide their employees with retirement savings opportunities. Businesses can comply with these laws by enrolling their employees into a state-sponsored...
Read MoreWhat to Do after You've Been Automatically Enrolled in Your Company's Retirement Plan
At one time, the only way you could join your company's 401(k) plan, 403(b) plan, or 457(b) plan was to put pen to paper and sign yourself up by filling out the appropriate forms. Now, though, in an effort to help participants increase...
Read MoreBusiness Loans to Children: What Parents Should Know
Have you ever considered bankrolling your adult child’s business? Many young entrepreneurs seek parental assistance in launching their companies, especially if they encounter difficulty securing bank loans due to a lack of credit...
Read MoreDiversification and Your Qualified Plan
As a small business owner, you know that a qualified plan can make a big difference in your ability to attract and retain desirable workers. At the same time, you may or may not be aware that sponsoring a qualified plan requires the...
Read MoreFinding Focus with Financial Planning: A Step-By-Step Guide
You 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 financial condition and...
Read MoreA Year-End Wealth Planning Guide
As we approach the end of the year, you may want to review areas that may impact your wealth and estate planning next year. In this year-end planning guide, we examine four critical areas to consider that may affect your finances:1....
Read MoreHow to Minimize Taxes During Market Downturns
Market downturns could be a good time to adjust your fund portfolio to minimize the tax bite. Here’s how to calculate the best ways to do that – now and in the future.Taxable accounts you hold longer than a year incur...
Read MoreHow to Make Sense of Your Pension Options
Pension plans are still offered at many types of employers today. A pension plan is an employer-sponsored retirement savings plan the employer contributes toward to fund their employees' future retirement.There are two types of pension...
Read MoreUsing Charitable Trusts to Transfer Business Assets
What are charitable remainder and charitable lead trusts?Charitable remainder and charitable lead trusts are special types of trusts into which you transfer assets, retain either a present or future economic benefit for yourself or...
Read MoreAn Attitude for Gratitude: How Your Attitude About Money Shapes Your Financial Decisions
Are you a spender, a saver, or somewhere in between? Do you view your money with an "easy come, easy go" attitude or focus on saving all you can, "making hay while the sun shines"? Your overall financial philosophy doesn't just affect...
Read MoreLong-Term Care Insurance: Thoughts from a financial professional
You have worked hard to build up your assets and you’re probably wondering: what happens to my savings if I’m affected by a long-term care event? It’s a topic that is worth examining in detail. First, let’s define long-term care.
Read More6 Ways to Show Your Gratitude During National Veteran and Military Families Month
National Veteran and Military Families Month is one of the most recently created celebratory months, put in action by former President Trump starting in November 2020. While various service members are honored throughout the year, this...
Read MoreTrusts and Year-End Planning: A Checklist
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...
Read MoreThe Cost of Raising Children is Over $310k
If you have a child, you may want to read the recent analysis from the Brookings Institute which details just how expensive raising kids can be. It’s downright frightening.According to the Brookings Institute analysis, the...
Read MoreUse of Cash Flow Analysis in Creating Your Budget
What is cash flow analysis? Analyzing cash flow is a simple process that helps you avoid the problems of a cash shortage. A cash crunch doesn't necessarily mean you are broke, but it is a situation you should avoid if possible. Cash...
Read MoreWhat the Mid-Terms Might Do to the Stock Market
The S&P 500 does best when one party controls Congress and the WH tooThe 2022 Midterm Elections will feature hundreds of hotly contested races at the state and local level and will decide whether the Democrats maintain...
Read MoreFour Common 401(k) Mistakes to Avoid
A lot of 401(k) investors end up making the same mistakes when choosing their investments. The results are low returns and unbalanced portfolios. Avoiding these four mistakes is a good start for getting more out of your 401(k).There is...
Read MoreSaving for Retirement and a Child's Education at the Same Time
You want to retire comfortably when the time comes. You also want to help your child go to college. So how do you juggle the two? The truth is, saving for your retirement and your child's education at the same time can be a challenge....
Read MoreAging Gracefully: 6 Healthy Ways to Enjoy Your Retirement
Retirement is an exciting time. You have worked hard all of your life and now get to take advantage of the fruits of that hard labor. While retirement is the perfect time to tackle to-do lists and all of the things you have always...
Read MoreLife Insurance and Estate Planning
Life insurance has come a long way since the days when it was known as burial insurance and used mainly to pay for funeral expenses. Today, life insurance is a crucial part of many estate plans. You can use it to leave much-needed...
Read MoreSix Keys to More Successful Investing
A successful investor maximizes gain and minimizes loss. Though there can be no guarantee that any investment strategy will be successful and all investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal, here are six basic...
Read MoreMoney Saving Tips Everyone Should Know
We’ve all heard this advice before: if you want to save money, you need to cut back on spending. However, it’s not always so easy. Identifying senseless spending in the following areas can help you save more each month. But don’t fret...
Read MoreFinancial Basics for Millennials
Poor money management can lead to debt, stress, and dependency on others. Fortunately, good money management skills can make it easier for you to accomplish your personal goals. Become familiar with the basics of planning now, and your...
Read MoreSetting and Targeting Investment Goals
Setting investment goals means defining your dreams for the future. When you're setting goals, it's best to be as specific as possible. For instance, you know you want to retire, but when? You know you want to send your child to college...
Read MoreA Financial Planning Guide for Families with Disabilities
There may be financial benefits available to those whose disabilities leave them unable to hold down a job. However, these benefits may come with strict rules and regulations, such as limits on the assets a disabled person may own.
Read MoreFinancial Planning Challenges and Strategies for the Sandwich Generation
Being caught between two generations of loved ones who require care can be both financially and emotionally draining, but there are ways to reduce the pressure. Here are three financial planning challenges the sandwich generation can face.
Read MoreCelebrating Independence and Independent Retailers During Independent Retailer Month
July is Independent Retailer Month, which is the perfect time to show your support for locally owned businesses that rely primarily on community support. Independent retailers are essential to communities as they are more likely to put mone
Read MoreAre You Retirement Ready? 5 Ways to Help Your Parents Prepare for Retirement
The key for many people in the sandwich generation is to provide guidance and support to their parents without derailing their own life and long-term goals. Here are some tips that may help.
Read MoreBasic Facts of Life Insurance
Thinking of a future without ourselves in it, is not the most pleasant of thoughts…however, it is necessary to do so for the financial future of your family. Keep reading to learn the basic facts of life insurance.
Read MoreThe Road Home: A Homebuyer's Guide to Financial Planning
If you're getting ready to buy a home, there are a few key steps you can take to prepare your finances for this major lifestyle shift. Here we discuss three things you can do to make the transition to homeownership as smooth as possible.
Read MoreGet Set… Hike!
Going on vacation doesn’t mean you have to throw your workout routine and money out the window. See the world, workout, save money, and start hiking! Never Hiked? Follow these simple steps to get started.
Read MoreAlzheimer’s Disease: Caring for Your Loved One
Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, is generally diagnosed in people over 65 years old, causing memory loss, changes in mood and behavior, and the gradual inability to maintain independence in daily living activities.
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 MoreWhat You Should Do When Facing a Bear Market
The first challenge when facing a bear market is recognizing it Every investor knows that his or her portfolio is at least partially at the mercy of the market itself, with overall market conditions playing a huge role in general gains...
Read MoreIs the NASDAQ Correction a Buying Opportunity?
Smart investors can cushion market corrections with proper diversification About halfway through January of 2022, NASDAQ closed in correction territory (on January 19th, NASDAQ closed down 10% from its recent high on November 29th), as...
Read MoreGiving Back to Your Community While Improving Your Bottom Line
Regardless of size, companies can benefit when the community in which they do business thrives. For entrepreneurs, giving back to the community may be more than just a charitable act; it can also make good business sense. If you have...
Read MoreFive Common Misconceptions About Retirement
Retirement is not what you retire from, but what you retire to When you plan for retirement, an exciting new phase of life, double-check your expectations. They may not match the reality. Baby boomers, currently in their 50s and 60s,...
Read MoreExperts say the 4% rule, a popular retirement income strategy, is outdated
KEY POINTS The 4% rule, a popular strategy to gauge withdrawals from one’s retirement portfolio, won’t work as well in coming decades due to lower projected stock and bond returns, according to a Morningstar paper published...
Read MoreHow do Black Friday and Cyber Monday retail sales affect the stock market?
We all read and hear about various special deals, “doorbusters,” price cuts, and early opening hours on Black Friday. We also read and hear about the Cyber Monday deals. These sales days offer retailers a big chance to...
Read MoreMid-November Means Open Enrollment Time
Reviewing your benefit choices will maximize your employment benefits Open enrollment for employee benefits kicks off this month. While you plan your Thanksgiving menu, review your benefit choices. Even if little changed in your life...
Read MoreSocial Security Gets Massive 5.9% Raise in 2022
Social Security Gets Massive 5.9% Raise in 2022 The largest cost-of-living-adjustment since 1982 impacts 90% of seniors On October 13th, the Social Security Administration announced that Social Security and Supplemental Security Income...
Read MoreWhat Veterans Should Know About Retirement Planning
What Veterans Should Know About Retirement Planning Veterans' retirement benefits are among some of the most generous out there, in large part due to the risks and sacrifices that come from military service. But navigating this array...
Read MoreYour 2021 Year-End Planning Checklist
Your 2021 Year-End Planning Checklist It may be easy to forget we're nearing the end of the year. Even during the busy end of year rush, it's a good time to reevaluate your 2021 finances and turn an eye toward 2022. What can you do now...
Read MoreYour Financial Professional’s Field of Dreams – Part II
“Field of Dreams” is a 1989 baseball movie inspired by W.P. Kinsella’s 1982 novel “Shoeless Joe.” Starring Kevin Costner, James Earl Jones, Ray Liotta, Amy Madigan and Burt Lancaster, it is about a famer...
Read MoreYour Financial Professional’s Field of Dreams – Part I
“Field of Dreams” is a 1989 baseball movie inspired by W.P. Kinsella’s 1982 novel “Shoeless Joe.” Starring Kevin Costner, James Earl Jones, Ray Liotta, Amy Madigan and Burt Lancaster, it is about a famer...
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