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Avantax Planning Video: Tax-Loss Harvesting
View this month's planning video as host, Rob Jackson, Vice President of Advisory Solutions at Avantax discusses tax-loss harvesting. Watch Video
Read MoreHappy Thanksgiving 2022
The warmth of the holiday meal beckons. Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones and observing gratitude. So, as you gather around the table, look around and give thanks for the family and friends surrounding you. Give...
Read MoreGiving Tuesday: A Day to Give Back
The Tuesday after Thanksgiving is “Giving Tuesday” – a day when individuals, communities, and companies focus on giving to charities and to the less fortunate. Giving Tuesday started in 2012 in New York City,...
Read MoreReasons Not to Write Your Own Will
Ever considered writing your own will? While you can draft a will on your own, there are plenty of reasons why you may not want to go that route. Most people do it to save money, but they may overlook or forget to take care of some...
Read MoreAvantax Market Update – November 2023
In an effort to consistently provide you with timely market updates, we thought you might enjoy the most recently published market commentary by our partners at Avantax. In this month’s market update video, Ivan Gruhl, CFA®...
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Charitable Giving - Avantax Planning Update
In this month's planning video, Mark Jaeger, VP of Tax Operations at Avantax, talks about charitable giving and donor-advised funds and how they may impact your taxes. Watch Video
Read MoreSECURE Act 2.0: An Overview
In the final days of 2022, Congress passed a new set of retirement rules designed to make it easier to contribute to retirement plans and access those funds earmarked for retirement. The law is called SECURE 2.0, and it's a follow-up...
Read MoreReady for Medicare Open Enrollment?
Medicare’s annual open enrollment period begins October 15 and ends December 7. During this time, current Medicare beneficiaries have the option to adjust their coverage for the coming year. Any changes to your plan will go into...
Read MoreFeatured in the TCBN! The Bucket Approach to Retirement Spending
A bucket plan can help you prepare for a comfortable retirement. But don’t wait until your retirement date is set to put a plan into action.
Read MoreAvantax Market Update – October 2023
In an effort to consistently provide you with timely market updates, we thought you might enjoy the most recently published market commentary by our partners at Avantax. In this month’s market update video, Ivan Gruhl, CFA®...
Read MoreAre You Prepared for an Estate Tax Sunset?
Did you know the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is scheduled to sunset in 2026? Here’s what’s at stake if the act is allowed to expire: for wealthy families, the $25.84 million federal estate tax exemption (as of 2023 for a married...
Read MoreMay is Disability Insurance Awareness Month
Think you don’t need disability coverage? Think again. We draft a will. Create an estate strategy. And purchase life insurance. But few of us consider disability insurance – the coverage that can help us maintain our...
Read MoreCommunication from Avantax
In the coming days, you will receive a letter from Avantax in the mail. This is a required regulatory notice about Avantax, Inc. entering into an agreement to be acquired by an affiliate of Cetera Financial Group, Inc. (Cetera). If...
Read MorePlan for Long-Term Care with Confidence
As we age, the need for long-term care becomes more prevalent, and without proper planning, it can have a significant impact on your financial wellbeing. The cost of long-term care can be high, and if you’re not prepared, it can...
Read MoreAvantax Planning Video: Risk Management and Insurance
View this month's planning video as host, Jason Allen, Life Insurance Sales Specialist at Avantax, discusses a key piece of a comprehensive, tax-smart plan - risk management and insurance. Watch Video
Read MoreAvantax Market Update – September 2023
In an effort to consistently provide you with timely market updates, we thought you might enjoy the most recently published market commentary by our partners at Avantax. In this month’s market update video, Ivan Gruhl, CFA®...
Read MoreProtecting Your Future
Even the best investment and financial plans can crumble if you have not properly prepared for the risks that exist. Should something happen to you or a family member such as a job loss, disability, illness, natural disaster or...
Read MoreAre you ready to yield healthier financial and investment decisions?
Did you know that we offer comprehensive wealth management that has helped clients like you make choices that yield healthier financial and investment decisions? Every financial decision you make has tax implications. You need to be...
Read MoreAvantax Planning Video: Tax-Intelligent Planning
View this month’s planning video as host Andy Watts, VP, Planning & Growth Solutions discusses the importance of comprehensive, tax-intelligent planning. Watch Video
Read MoreBefore You Claim Social Security
Before You Claim Social Security A few things you may want to think about before filing for benefits. Whether you want to leave work at 62, 67, or 72, claiming the retirement benefits you are entitled to by federal law is no casual...
Read MoreWasn't There Supposed to be a Recession?
In advance of 2023, the recession drum beats were so loud it was deafening. Market pundits warned that as the Fed raised interest rates, it was just a matter of time before the economy entered a recession. But it’s July now, and...
Read MoreAvantax Market Update – August 2023
In an effort to consistently provide you with timely market updates, we thought you might enjoy the most recently published market commentary by our partners at Avantax. In this month’s market update video, Ivan Gruhl, CFA®...
Read MoreThe best laid plans…
Even the most thought-out financial strategy may need to be adjusted for unexpected events, such as changes to your family life or career, or shifts in your family priorities. These are important opportunities for us to connect and...
Read MoreWho Is Your Trusted Contact?
Who Is Your Trusted Contact? This vital investment account question should be answered sooner rather than later.Investment firms have a new client service requirement. They must now ask you if you would like to provide the name and...
Read MoreWhen your spouse passes away, are you prepared for the financial impact?
When your spouse passes away, are you prepared for the financial impact?Losing a spouse creates an emotional crisis for you and your family. What’s worse, it leaves many partners with financial uncertainty and questions like,...
Read MoreSummertime Checkup
Summer’s here, and the time is right for vacations, outdoor activities, and fun. It’s also a good time to consider a few financial matters. Here are some questions to ask yourself mid-year.Goals still the same for 2023? Has...
Read MoreAvantax Market Update – July 2023
In an effort to consistently provide you with timely market updates, we thought you might enjoy the most recently published market commentary by our partners at Avantax.In this month’s market update video, Head of Research at...
Read MoreFive Savings Secrets
Are you saving for the future?People often come to me asking for financial guidance. Some want to know how to invest or diversify the money they’ve saved, but others admit to me they’re just not sure how to save. If...
Read MoreFinancial Planning Strategies Through a Tax-IntelligentLens
Forty years ago, a CPA who felt his clients weren’t getting the investment advice they needed founded a revolutionary new firm that uses tax information to identify substantial opportunities and vulnerabilities to help maximize...
Read MoreBringing home a new baby? Are you financially prepared?
Bringing home a new baby? Are you financially prepared?Having a baby is an incredible experience, but it can also fill you with financial anxiety. No need to worry! Time is on your side. Developing a solid financial plan now will...
Read MoreHow will you pay for college tuition?
Remember when a college education was reasonably priced? In the past 20 years, the cost of college tuition for public universities has risen 165%. College students and their families have been taking on more and more debt, and they are...
Read MoreNow That the Debt Ceiling is Over, What's Next?
Now that the debt ceiling negotiations are behind us and President Biden has signed the measure, what will Wall Street's wandering eye focus on next?Inflation? Interest rates? Recession? Artificial intelligence?More than likely,...
Read MoreAvantax Market Update – June 2023
In an effort to consistently provide you with timely market updates, we thought you might enjoy the most recently published market commentary by our partners at Avantax.In this month’s market update video, Avantax Chief...
Read MoreCan Life Insurance Help Minimize Taxes for You and Your Family?
As your financial plan becomes more complex, your insurance needs may change with it. When you’re just starting out, the primary focus is often on protecting your family if something should happen to you. Although that may...
Read MoreTax-Loss Harvesting
Tax-Loss HarvestingA useful year-end move to counteract capital gains.Even though this may end up being a subpar year for stocks, you may realize capital gains, which is a taxable event. What can you do about them? You can do what some...
Read MoreFinancial Planning Strategies Through a Tax-Smart Lens
Forty years ago, a CPA who felt his clients weren’t getting the investment advice they needed founded a revolutionary new firm that uses tax information to identify substantial opportunities and vulnerabilities to help maximize...
Read MoreA Smaller Social Security Bump May Be On the Way
I wanted to take a moment to update you on the potential changes to Social Security benefits for 2024. As I'm sure you know, the Social Security Administration calculates annual cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) based on the Consumer...
Read MoreAre you ready to yield healthier financial and investment decisions?
Did you know that we offer comprehensive wealth management that has helped clients like you make choices that yield healthier financial and investment decisions?Every financial decision you make has tax implications. You need to be...
Read MoreAvantax Market Update - May 2023
In an effort to consistently provide you with timely market updates, we thought you might enjoy the most recently published market commentary by our partners at Avantax.In this month’s market update video, Avantax Chief...
Read MoreFinancial Literacy Month - Asset Protection
So you've prepared for your goals and you believe you are on track for your financial goals. That's wonderful. What now?April is Financial Literacy Month. If you haven't put some thought into Asset Protection Strategy, now...
Read MoreFinancial Literacy Month - Financial Literacy for Children
Many young adults are not only wayward financially, but also pessimistic about ever becoming wealthy. Could it be that our children just aren't getting the financial education they need?April is Financial Literacy Month. This is...
Read MoreFinancial Literacy Month - Recovering from Financial Hardship
If your finances are not where you would like them to be, what can you do about it?April is Financial Literacy Month. This is a great time to start picking up the pieces and learn how to rebuild with confidence. After all, a little...
Read MoreFinancial Literacy Month - Defining SMART Financial Goals
Are your financial goals well-defined? While "I want to have lots of money" may sound like a great goal, it's just too vague. How much is "lots?" If you don’t know … how will you know when you have it? And will the...
Read MoreAvantax Market Update - April 2023
In an effort to consistently provide you with timely market updates, we thought you might enjoy the most recently published market commentary by our partners at Avantax.In this month’s market update video, Avantax Chief...
Read MoreFinancial Literacy Month - Budgeting Today for Wealth Tomorrow
Spend today, save tomorrow?Okay, we've all been there. But if it seems you're always living paycheck-to-paycheck and never able to save anything for the future, then it may be time to make a change .April is Financial Literacy Month....
Read MoreApril Is Financial Literacy Month
April marks the start of Financial Literacy Month, a nationally recognized movement to promote and support financial understanding in children and teens. For many, it's a fantastic opportunity to teach and connect with their children...
Read MoreSaving Early & Letting Time Work for You
Saving Early & Letting Time Work for YouThe earlier you start pursuing financial goals, the better your outcome may be.As a young investor, you have a powerful ally on your side: time. When you start investing in your twenties or...
Read MoreInflation Math for Today’s Retiree
You may have heard the saying, “inflation hurts savers and benefits borrowers.” The expression suggests that borrowers benefit from inflation because they pay back lenders with dollars worth less than when the money...
Read MoreBefore You Claim Social Security
Before You Claim Social SecurityA few things you may want to think about before filing for benefits.Whether you want to leave work at 62, 67, or 72, claiming the retirement benefits you are entitled to by federal law is no casual...
Read MoreAre you ready to yield healthier financial and investment decisions?
Did you know that we offer comprehensive wealth management that has helped clients like you make choices that yield healthier financial and investment decisions?Every financial decision you make has tax implications. You need to be...
Read MoreMonthly Economic Update for March 2023
In this month’s recap: Stocks stumbled as investors worried that the Fed would maintain its tight monetary posture due to ongoing inflation.U.S. MarketsStock prices stumbled in February owing to growing worries that the Fed would...
Read MoreAvantax Planning Video: Retirement Planning
View this month's planning video as host Jeffrey Steinberg discusses the importance of retirement planning and creating a plan to ensure you don't outlive your money. Watch Video
Read MoreLower the cost of your life insurance.
Here’s a little-known fact that may help you save money on life insurance: when it comes to underwriting, insurance carriers typically rate clients to their closest birthday.What does that mean? It means that if you are 39 years...
Read MoreWhat Determines Car Insurance Rates?
What Determines Car Insurance Rates?Driver history is just one factor; there are many others.Your auto insurance premium is based on more than your driving history. The amount you pay for auto insurance is determined by a complicated...
Read MoreAvantax Planning Video: Risk Management and Insurance
View this month's planning video as host, Jason Allen, Life Insurance Sales Specialist at Avantax, discusses a key piece of a comprehensive, tax-smart plan - risk management and insurance. Watch Video
Read MoreCan Life Insurance Help Minimize Taxes for You and Your Family?
As your financial plan becomes more complex, your insurance needs may change with it. When you’re just starting out, the primary focus is often on protecting your family if something should happen to you. Although that may...
Read MoreWords of Wisdom from Warren Buffett
The stock market can provide some head-scratching moments, which is why I like Warren Buffet’s quote, “...don’t watch the market closely.”Stocks have been strong this year, and they rallied sharply before...
Read MoreAvantax Market Update - February 2023
In an effort to consistently provide you with timely market updates, we thought you might enjoy the most recently published market commentary by our partners at Avantax.In this month’s market update video, Head of Research,...
Read MoreLet's Review Your Life
Life doesn’t stand still. Neither do your life insurance needs.If you have a quote or policy and haven’t reviewed it lately, you may be surprised to discover that what worked for you then may not not meet your needs now...
Read MoreIs the Bear Market Over?
"Is the bear market over?"That's a question I've been asked a number of times in recent weeks. And my answer is the same, "Let's give it a little time."But people are quick to remind me that stocks are off to a good start in 2023,...
Read More2023 Economic Update
We invite you to join us for a 2023 Economic Update presented Mark Eibel, CFA, Director, Client Investment Strategies. Mark serves as a principal spokesman for Russell Investments’ investment process and...
Read MoreInflation Is Trending Lower. Now What?
The December inflation report had some encouraging news. It showed that consumer prices trended lower for the month, but more importantly, it confirmed that overall prices have been trending lower for the past six months.Now the ball...
Read MoreIs it time for a 401(k) review?
As one year ends and another begins, you naturally think about the state of your business – what is working well, and what could improve in the future. When was the last time you thought about the state of your company’s...
Read MoreOutlook 2023: What's Next for Interest Rates?
What does the bond market know that the Fed isn’t telling us?Fed officials recently have said that short-term rates will need to climb to over 5 percent to bring inflation under control. But in the table below, you can see that...
Read MoreSocial Security 2023 COLA Increase Kicks In
While you probably already found your notice in the mail, you may be curious about the COLA increase happening for Social Security recipients in the New Year. Starting in January, beneficiaries will see an 8.7% increase to help offset...
Read MoreSECURE Act 2.0 Passed in Final Days of 2022
Congress spent the final days of 2022 on new reforms designed to help Americans save more for retirement.You may hear the changes called SECURE Act 2.0, which is a follow-up to the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement...
Read MoreAvantax Market Update - January 2023
In an effort to consistently provide you with timely market updates, we thought you might enjoy the most recently published market commentary by our partners at Avantax.In this month’s market update video, Avantax Chief...
Read MoreJanuary Is International Wealth Mentality Month
January is International Wealth Mentality Month, a time to remind people to make arrangements for their financial strategy.For me, it’s time for me to connect with new clients and discuss their financial situation and aspirations...
Read MoreHappy New Year - 2022 into 2023
A new year is on the horizon. Each day that comes presents something new and exciting both for you and the people in your life.Is this the year you open the door to something new and exciting? Embark on some new travel adventure? Or...
Read MoreOil Prices Make a Round Trip in 2022
The financial markets are complex systems. They can move from one event to the next so quickly that it's hard to know what’s driving prices.For example, look at the roundtrip oil prices in the chart below.Oil prices surged to...
Read MoreHappy Holidays!
Just wanted to take a moment to wish you a safe, happy, and beautiful Holiday season. May your celebrations include those you love, good times, and great memories.
Read MoreDiscussing Finances Over the Holidays
The holiday season is upon us; from story time with sorely missed grandchildren to laughter with friends and family over long-cherished memories, there's little doubt that "the most wonderful time of the year" has arrived.For my family...
Read MoreAvantax Market Update - December 2022
In an effort to consistently provide you with timely market updates, we thought you might enjoy the most recently published market commentary by our partners at Avantax.In this month’s market update video, Avantax Chief...
Read MoreAvantax Planning Video: Risk Management and Insurance
View this month's planning video as host, Jason Allen, Life Insurance Sales Specialist at Avantax, discusses a key piece of a comprehensive, tax-smart plan - risk management and insurance. Watch Video
Read MoreIs the Fed Ready to Pause?
Over the years, the Fed has followed a similar pattern with interest rates. It raises interest rates, then pauses, so it can see how the economy is adjusting to the higher rates. The chart below shows the Fed’s pattern with...
Read MoreHappy Thanksgiving 2022
The warmth of the holiday meal beckons. Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones and observing gratitude.So, as you gather around the table, look around and give thanks for the family and friends surrounding you. Give...
Read MoreWarren Buffett on Contrarian Investing
You may have heard the phrase “contrarian investing,” but did you know that one of the most reliable contrary indicators is individual investors?Retail investors often do the wrong thing at the wrong time. But this year,...
Read MoreAhead of the Midterms 2022
The midterm elections are underway. In many states, ballots have been delivered and, in several cases, already returned by Americans exercising one of the most sacred of their Constitutional rights.Election Day is always the Tuesday...
Read MoreAvantax Market Update - November 2022
In an effort to consistently provide you with timely market updates, we thought you might enjoy the most recently published market commentary by our partners at Avantax.In this month’s market update video, Avantax Chief...
Read MoreNew Retirement Contribution Limits for 2023
The Internal Revenue Service has released new limits for the coming year. After months of high inflation and financial uncertainty, some of these cost-of-living-based adjustments have reached near-record levels.Individual Retirement...
Read MoreHave a Hopeful Halloween
Lately, "inflation" seems to be the media's favorite word. Everywhere you turn, there's another story about the impact of inflation. For example, many news outlets have reported that confectionary prices have surged over 30% from last...
Read MorePutting Interest Rates Into Perspective
Traditionally, I’ve been a little cautious when people say, “it’s different this time.” After all, the past few years have seen more financial “firsts” than most.But despite that skepticism, this...
Read MoreJOLTS of Optimism for the Markets?
We measure the jobs market in many ways, but the Job Opening and Labor Turnover Survey or JOLTS report seems to be of particular interest to Fed Chair Jerome Powell.The JOLTS report tells the Fed how many job openings there are each...
Read MoreAvantax Market Update - October 2022
In an effort to consistently provide you with timely market updates, we thought you might enjoy the most recently published market commentary by our partners at Avantax.In this month’s market update video host Austin Schaul,...
Read MoreAvantax Planning Video: Social Security
View this month's planning video as host, Scott Walloch, Avantax Financial Planning Consultant discusses a key piece of a comprehensive, tax-smart retirement plan – Social Security. Watch Video
Read MoreThese Months are More Volatile Than Others
We’re entering a tricky time of year: September and October have a reputation for bringing an extra measure of market volatility.Some of the stock market’s most challenging events have hit in September and October, and...
Read More1% Moves in S&P 500
If you’ve felt like stock prices were a little more volatile in 2022 than in recent years, your “spidey senses” are right on the money.The S&P 500 has posted 81 daily moves of at least 1% through August. Of those...
Read MoreRecession or Growth Scare? Your Guide
I’m hearing a lot of mixed messages these days about the economy. Some headlines say we’re already in a recession; some say one is looming. Others hint that we’ll avoid a recession and have a soft landing. It makes...
Read MoreAvantax Market Update - September 2022
In this month’s market update video, Avantax Chief Investment Officer, Ivan Gruhl, CFA®, provides a market update for September. He recaps market returns, discusses the economy, the Federal Reserve and our outlook for the...
Read MoreConsiderations During Medicare’s Open Enrollment
How long has it been since you’ve reviewed your Medicare policy? With open enrollment fast approaching, there are a few questions you may want to ask yourself before you renew, add, drop, or switch coverage.Have you switched...
Read MoreImportant Details on Student Loan Relief
The White House recently forgave up to $10,000 to student loan borrowers as part of a larger debt forgiveness program. There are still quite a few questions to be answered, but here are some key points to know.Pell vs. non-Pell: Loan...
Read MoreLet's Review Your Life
Life doesn’t stand still. Neither do your life insurance needs.If you have a quote or policy and haven’t reviewed it lately, you may be surprised to discover that what worked for you then may not not meet your needs now...
Read MoreWhere There's A Will
"Where there's a will, there's a way." Sage advice that applies not only to our lives but to your estate strategy.When was the last time you reviewed your will or estate strategy? August is National "Make a Will" Month, an excellent...
Read MoreAvantax Planning Video: National Financial Awareness Day
August 14th is National Financial Awareness Day, which is designed to encourage individuals and families to evaluate their finances and establish standards, goals, and a plan to build a solid financial future. View this...
Read MoreAvantax Market Update - August 2022
View this month’s market update video as host Austin Schaul, CFA®, Head of Research at Avantax Planning PartnersSM, recaps July’s market returns and discusses the economy slowing in the second quarter, an outlook on...
Read MoreAvantax Market Update - July 2022
View this month’s market update video as host Ivan Gruhl, Chief Investment Officer of Avantax provides an update and discusses market returns, the economy and our views as the economy slows. Watch Video
Read More1.02 Billion Reasons to Be Prepared
What would you do with a windfall? It’s a question I’ve read or heard a lot lately. Considering the Mega Millions jackpot has now grown to $1.02 billion, it’s safe to say most of us have thought about what it would be...
Read MoreCompanies Winning Despite Sour Economy
Sometimes, it’s a good idea to get a second opinion.And this may be one of those times.Government reports are telling a rather bleak story about the economy. The headlines talk about high inflation, rising interest rates, and a...
Read MoreHow SECURE 2.0 Might Change Retirement
The SECURE Act of 2019 represented the biggest update to retirement law in over a decade. Now, Congress is deliberating on what “SECURE 2.0” legislation might entail.In March, the House passed the Securing a Strong...
Read More3 Tips for the Second Half of 2022
With half the year behind us, now is a great time to consider what the remainder of 2022 may hold. However, with inflation and economic uncertainty causing many of us to delay or cancel vacations, large purchases, and more, it can be...
Read MoreAvantax Market Update - June 2022
View this month’s market update video as host Ivan Gruhl, Chief Investment Officer of Avantax provides an update and discusses market returns, the Federal Reserve and our view on the risk of a recession as the economy slows....
Read More3 Shrewd Maneuvers in a Down Market
It’s natural to think “defense” during a bearish market season. But why not mix in some “offense” with your defense? Here are three moves we can discuss together that may be helpful during the current...
Read MoreSearching for the Goldilocks Economy
At the risk of slowing economic growth, the Fed has driven short-term rates higher to rein in inflation. But it’s a tricky proposition.Raise rates too much, and you may trigger a recession. Don’t raise rates enough, and you...
Read MoreSummertime Checkup
Summer’s here, and the time is right for vacations, outdoor activities, and fun. It’s also a good time to consider a few financial matters. Here are some questions to ask yourself mid-year.Goals still the same for 2022? Has...
Read MoreAvantax Market Update - June 2022
View this month’s market update video as host Ivan Gruhl, Chief Investment Officer of Avantax provides an update and discusses market returns, the Federal Reserve and our view on the risk of a recession as the economy slows....
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