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Thursday, December 7, 2023

View this month's planning video as host, Rob Jackson, Vice President of Advisory Solutions at Avantax discusses tax-loss harvesting. Watch Video

Thursday, November 30, 2023

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...

Thursday, November 23, 2023

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,...

Thursday, November 9, 2023

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...

Wednesday, November 8, 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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Thursday, November 2, 2023

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

Thursday, October 26, 2023

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...

Thursday, October 12, 2023

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...

Friday, October 6, 2023

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. 

Thursday, October 5, 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®...

Thursday, October 5, 2023

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...

Thursday, September 28, 2023

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...

Wednesday, September 27, 2023

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...

Thursday, September 21, 2023

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...

Thursday, September 14, 2023

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

Monday, September 11, 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®...

Thursday, September 7, 2023

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...

Thursday, August 24, 2023

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...

Thursday, August 17, 2023

View this month’s planning video as host Andy Watts, VP, Planning & Growth Solutions discusses the importance of comprehensive, tax-intelligent planning. Watch Video

Thursday, August 10, 2023

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...

Monday, August 7, 2023

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...

Friday, August 4, 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®...

Thursday, July 27, 2023

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...

Thursday, July 20, 2023

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...

Thursday, July 20, 2023

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,...

Thursday, July 13, 2023

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...

Wednesday, July 12, 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...

Thursday, July 6, 2023

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...

Thursday, June 29, 2023

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...

Thursday, June 15, 2023

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...

Thursday, June 8, 2023

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...

Thursday, June 8, 2023

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,...

Thursday, June 8, 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...

Thursday, May 25, 2023

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...

Thursday, May 18, 2023

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...

Tuesday, May 16, 2023

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...

Thursday, May 11, 2023

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...

Thursday, May 11, 2023

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...

Tuesday, May 9, 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...

Thursday, April 27, 2023

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...

Thursday, April 20, 2023

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...

Thursday, April 20, 2023

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...

Thursday, April 13, 2023

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...

Monday, April 10, 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...

Thursday, April 6, 2023

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....

Thursday, April 6, 2023

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...

Thursday, March 30, 2023

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...

Thursday, March 23, 2023

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...

Thursday, March 16, 2023

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...

Thursday, March 9, 2023

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...

Tuesday, March 7, 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...

Thursday, March 2, 2023

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

Tuesday, February 28, 2023

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...

Thursday, February 23, 2023

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...

Thursday, February 16, 2023

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

Thursday, February 9, 2023

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...

Tuesday, February 7, 2023

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...

Tuesday, February 7, 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,...

Thursday, February 2, 2023

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...

Thursday, February 2, 2023

"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,...

Friday, January 27, 2023

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...

Thursday, January 26, 2023

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...

Thursday, January 19, 2023

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...

Thursday, January 19, 2023

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...

Thursday, January 12, 2023

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...

Thursday, January 12, 2023

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...

Monday, January 9, 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...

Thursday, January 5, 2023

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...

Thursday, December 29, 2022

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...

Thursday, December 22, 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...

Tuesday, December 20, 2022

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.

Thursday, December 15, 2022

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...

Friday, December 9, 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...

Thursday, December 8, 2022

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

Thursday, December 1, 2022

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...

Wednesday, November 23, 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...

Thursday, November 17, 2022

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,...

Wednesday, November 9, 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...

Monday, November 7, 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...

Thursday, November 3, 2022

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...

Thursday, October 27, 2022

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...

Thursday, October 20, 2022

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...

Thursday, October 13, 2022

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...

Monday, October 10, 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,...

Thursday, October 6, 2022

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

Thursday, September 29, 2022

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...

Thursday, September 22, 2022

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...

Thursday, September 15, 2022

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...

Tuesday, September 13, 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...

Thursday, September 8, 2022

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...

Thursday, September 1, 2022

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...

Thursday, August 25, 2022

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...

Thursday, August 18, 2022

"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...

Thursday, August 11, 2022

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...

Thursday, August 11, 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...

Friday, August 5, 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

Thursday, August 4, 2022

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...

Thursday, July 28, 2022

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...

Thursday, July 21, 2022

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...

Thursday, July 14, 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...

Monday, July 11, 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....

Thursday, June 30, 2022

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...

Friday, June 24, 2022

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...

Monday, June 20, 2022

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...

Wednesday, June 15, 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....

Wednesday, May 25, 2022

Wednesday, May 18, 2022