Blog
The future you want, the money to do it.
Education is a key component of our planning and investment process. We share our expertise with you through our blog so that you can have a deeper understanding of your finances and the decisions surrounding them.
The Latest From Our Blog
Determining a Personalized Inflation Rate
In an age of customization, is it possible to personalize your approach to inflation? Inflation is the general rise in prices and the concurrent decrease in purchasing power over a period of time. Most countries have an official inflation rate that's primarily based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI). But what if the generalized CPI doesn't...
Are HSA Contributions Tax Deductible? Answers to 11 Essential HSA Questions
If you’ve ever had questions about a Health Savings Account (HSA), you’re not alone. What are they used for? How do taxes work? Should I get one? Answering these and other questions can help you take advantage of the investment and saving options available to you. Contributing to an HSA allows you to save for medical expenses by putting...
Advisors Reveal the 5 Best Financial Tips for the New Year
January is a great time to reset your finances, regain control, and recommit to your plan. In today’s article, advisors from around the country share their top five financial tips for the new year. “Review your 2023 spending to adjust your 2024 budget.” - Erik Herstad; Auburn, IN Start with the basics: Discern where your budget and financial...
5 Simple Ways to Pursue Financial Freedom
It’s our tagline and, if nothing else, a nice turn of phrase. But how do we know if it’s true? After decades of partnering with hardworking Americans, we’ve seen the impact, the tears, the relief, and the joy as people reach their goals and know they will be okay. The sacrifices it takes to get there are worth it because when you are...
How to Know if You Can Retire Early
As we approach the new year, maybe the dream of an early retirement starts to take shape in your mind. Maybe you’re researching when you might first qualify for Social Security retirement benefits. (Hint: for Social Security income, the youngest age when you can apply is 61 years and nine months old – you would then receive your first Social...
Our View of 2024
Increasingly OptimisticConsumer health will dominate headlines in 2024 as the eventual recession becomes a reality. The onset of a recession is a lagging indicator and represents a normalized shift in the business cycle, one that has occurred every 6.5 years since WWII (on average). We are emphasizing a soft landing, which indicates slowing...
A Change to 401(k) Catch-up Contributions
The SECURE 2.0 Act has sparked retirement confusion and concerns. Retirement planning has become a puzzle of intricate legislation, and the recent changes brought about by the SECURE 2.0 Act have only added more complexity. While some alterations aim to enhance the retirement landscape, others have sparked confusion and concern, especially...
Last-Minute Year-End Retirement Deductions For Business Owners in 2023
The clock continues to tick. Your retirement is one year closer. Luckily, you still have time before December 31st to take steps to help fund the retirement you desire. Here are five things to consider. 1. Establish Your 2023 Retirement Plan First, a question: Do you have your (or your corporation’s) retirement plan in place? If not (and if you...
The Pros and Cons of Charitable Giving Strategies
Once you have provided for your own personal expenses and retirement, it may be time to consider how your money could benefit others. Giving away some of your money is a great way to support the people and organizations you love, but choosing the right strategy is essential for minimizing your taxes and meeting your personal goals. ...
Are The Federal Reserve’s Actions Working?
The Quick Take: The actions of the Federal Reserve in raising interest rates appear to be working. Retail sales slowed in October. Slower growth in spending does not mean that spending has halted. Inflation slowed once again last month, adding further credence to the Fed’s efforts. There’s room to go, but the trend remains intact to the...