Blog
Difficulties handling ageing parent's finances?
A growing number of families are facing a quiet but serious problem: adult children are being forced to step in and manage aging parents’ finances before anyone has prepared for it.
Read MoreMake Time After Tax Time
Taxes can be a snapshot of our money, and tax season can make most of us feel like we have a clear view of that photo. But is that photo clear?
Read MoreBreaking Down the Parts of Medicare
Generally, the different parts of Medicare help cover specific services. Most beneficiaries choose to receive their Parts A and B benefits through Original Medicare, but there are
Read MoreGoodbye Jerome Powell. Hello Fed Chair Warsh?
Get ready to start seeing the name “Fed Chair Kevin Warsh” when you receive updates about the Federal Reserve on your news feeds.
Read More7 Common Tax Mistakes To Avoid
Tax season is stressful enough without avoidable errors derailing your plans or costing you money with the IRS. These 7 common mistakes can be avoided.
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Are People Leaving Low-Cost Mortgages?
Just over 50 percent of homeowners still have mortgages with rates under 4 percent. But that number has been trending lower, especially in the past year.
Read MoreNew Retirement Contribution Limits for 2026
The Internal Revenue Service recently released new limits for 2026. Although these adjustments won’t bring any major changes, there are some minor elements to note.
Read MoreForth Quote for January 2026
James W. Frick, former vice president for public relations, alumni affairs and development at the University of Notre Dame, gave us our quote for January.
Read MoreFocusing on Healing with Effective use of Technology
When you’ve just lost a loved one, even finding the ‘share screen’ button can feel overwhelming.
Read More2026 Forecasts for the S&P 500
When you see the word “forecast,” it should be closely followed by, “Forecasts are based on assumptions and are subject to revisions over time. So "be prepared"!
Read MoreFickle Fed Focused on Jobs
It seems like just yesterday the Fed was all about inflation. So why are Jerome Powell & Crew now talking about jobs?
Read MoreForth Quote for December 2025
Robert Kiyosaki's quote about financial freedom isn’t about a bigger paycheck. It’s about turning your paycheck into assets that pay you back.
Read MoreWhat's the Outlook for Interest Rates?
The business of making forecasts can be a slippery slope. But some investors are willing to “put their money where their mouth is” when it comes to making predictions about what’s next for short-term interest rates.
Read More"When your partner’s health sidelines their career overnight, what happens to your plan?"
One spouse back at work, the other facing long-term disability after multiple strokes and cardiac surgery. We mapped out three moves to help navigate when life threw a curveball.
Read MoreForth Tip for November
Credit card debt in Florida is currently at record highs, with the state ranking third in the nation for total credit card debt as of late 2025.
Read More“Can we finish the new pool without sinking our retirement?”
“Can we finish the new pool without sinking our retirement?” A recently retired couple is juggling construction draws, rising interest, and fixed-income checks. We sat down to look at the options.
Read MoreWhat Will You Do With Your Bonus or Windfall?
In 2024, the average work bonus was roughly 2.8 percent of the worker's annual salary, across all industries. What would you do with yours?
Read MoreForth Quote for October 2025
This classic quote from Mark Twain reminds us that overconfidence in false beliefs causes more trouble than simple ignorance.
Read MoreWhat's the Purpose of a Retirement Strategy?
“What’s the purpose of a retirement strategy?” It’s a simple question, but most get the answer wrong. Artificial intelligence got it wrong. Learn why I only gave it partial credit.
Read MoreUnderstanding a Government Shutdown
What happens during a government shutdown, and how might this affect you? Unless the government employs you or you are planning a trip to the Smithsonian, you might not even notice.
Read MoreForth Tip for October
Sunny Sarasota, Florida offers more than just amazing beaches and culture... it gives your financial future a chance to grow.
Read MoreThe Fed Cut Rates: What’s in It for Me?
The Fed lowered short-term interest rates at its September 2025 meeting, but the question on most people’s minds is, “What’s in it for me?” That’s a fair question, so here are some ideas to consider.
Read MoreForth Quote for September 2025
"The key is not to prioritize what's on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities." Stephen R. Covey was a renowned leadership expert, educator, and author best known for his book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
Read MoreWhat Happens When the Fed Adjusts Rates?
Hardly a day goes by that someone doesn’t say to me, “I’m putting off a decision until the Fed changes interest rates.” But I’m quick to remind people that the “rate dominoes” don’t always fall as you may expect.
Read MoreForth Quote for September 2025
Dave Ramsey’s advice is popular because it’s simple, no-nonsense, and proven.
Read MoreThe Retirement Bucket Rule—Tailored for Sarasota, Florida Residents
Retirement is a milestone we plan for decades, diligently saving and strategizing to ensure our golden years are secure. That's where the "bucket strategy" comes in—a time-tested system for fear-free spending.
Read MoreShipping Traffic to US Nears an All-Time High
Sometimes unconventional indicators can shed some light on what’s happening with the economy. Traffic from 20-foot ocean containers is at its highest level since January 2022.
Read MoreForth Quote for July 2025
Warren Buffett's advice is valuable because it emphasizes protecting your capital by avoiding unnecessary risks and encourages long-term, disciplined investing in high-quality businesses rather than chasing quick gains or bargains.
Read MoreA quick glance at the latest tax law overhaul
Just before the July 4th holiday, Congress passed a domestic policy bill that extended the 2017 tax cuts that were set to expire this year while making some of the 2017 rules permanent.
Read MoreIs TINA Managing Your Money?
Who the heck is TINA? TINA is an acronym that stands for “There Is No Alternative” to stocks. And for most retirement-minded investors, TINA is their money manager.
Read MoreLatest "Bring A Friend Event" Features Great Food & Meaningful Discussions
Guest speaker Brad Brownstein from Dignity Memorial shared insights on pre-planned funerals with a “Honoring Your Life, Your Way.” presentation to an intimate & engaged group over fantastic dinner & meaningful conversations.
Read MoreEgg-onomics: A Lesson in Price Moves
Isaac Newton might be smiling if he looked at the charts for eggs, cocoa, and coffee prices. To traders, they are a lesson on how markets can reach an extreme and then correct. But to Newton, they are simply a lesson in gravity....
Read MoreForth Quote for June 2025
Antonio Damasio's famous quote which helps define how we approach many decisions - including financial ones.
Read MoreWhat's Next for Interest Rates, Inflation?
The Fed’s May meeting was pretty much a humdrum event. Even Fed Chair Powell's post-meeting press conference was uneventful. “We are always going to do the same thing,” he said. “We are going to use our tools to foster maximum...
Read MoreBuffett on Retirement, Investing
Warren Buffett, 94, said in early May he will ask the board of directors to have Greg Abel replace him as CEO at the end of 2025.
Read MoreAre You Making the Most of Super Catch-Up Contributions?
The SECURE Act 2.0 has introduced catch-up contribution choices for those aged 50+, designed to help boost your retirement savings. These enhanced catch-up provisions are available if you're participating in workplace retirement plans...
Read MoreYour Home: Asset or Liability?
Have you ever heard the expression, “It’s a buyer’s market?” That phrase describes what’s happening with today’s residential real estate: homes are selling for under their asking price and are taking longer to sell. Good news for...
Read MoreTariffs Stir Market Volatility
Every investor knows there are highs and lows during the year. The challenge is remaining focused during the lows. As the 2025 tariff talks have progressed, stock prices have seen more down days than up days as the details get rolled out.
Read MoreTake a Timeout from Tariff Talk
When Warren Buffett said, “Be fearful when others are greedy and be greedy when others are fearful,” he wasn’t just talking about investing. He championed contrarian thinking and urged people to capitalize when groupthink can result...
Read MoreHurricane Milton - Financial Planning Amid Hurricane Milton
As Hurricane Milton rapidly intensifies and nears the Florida coast, it’s essential to think not only of personal safety but also of your financial well-being. This Category 5 hurricane, with sustained winds reaching 160 mph, is poised...
Read MoreSocial Security 2025 COLA: Projected 2.5% Increase
More than 71 million Social Security beneficiaries can expect a 2.5% cost of living adjustment (COLA) increase in 2025, based on the Q3 inflation data so far. In other words, the COLA will raise the average benefit by $48 to $1,968 a...
Read More401(k) Millionaires Are on the Rise
As we continue through 2024, I wanted to share some data that many may find positive. Fidelity Investments just announced that 440,000 retirement savers reached an incredible milestone in 2023: $1 million in their 401(k).1 That's...
Read MoreWhy Insurance is a Must-Have Element of Estate Planning
Insurance provides some financial support for your family, which might cover estate taxes, debts, and other expenses.
Read MoreHow to Be an Olympian
As the Olympic Games are being held this year in Paris, I thought it would be interesting to explore how the Olympians earn their chance at gold, silver, or bronze. It turns out that, just like in the world of finance, the path to the...
Read MoreAnnuities: The Missing Piece in Your Retirement Puzzle
One key—and often overlooked—part of the retirement puzzle is the annuity. These financial products are uniquely versatile and have tax benefits that often aren't available with other retirement options.
Read MoreRetirement Planning - The Ultimate Endless Summer Adventure
Here are some tips and tricks to help manage your retirement to have the goal of being carefree and relaxing as a child's summer vacation.
Read More6 Telltale Signs You're Not Saving Enough for Retirement
How can you be sure if you need to save more? Consider these six telltale signs to help you decide if today is the day you need to change your saving strategy.
Read MoreA Quick Guide to 529 Plans and College Savings: Dispelling Common Myths and Misconceptions
529 plans are a tool for those looking to save for college for their children, grandchildren, or any family member. While most people know that they are one of the most popular saving methods for college, many myths surrounding these...
Read MoreFive Planning Strategies for Turbulent Markets
Market turbulence is a challenge, but also an opportunity if faced head-on In times of economic upheaval, the natural reaction for many investors is to react with fear and anxiety. Market volatility can unsettle the most seasoned of...
Read MoreTurning Profits into Wealth: A Guide for High-Earning Business Owners
Growing a business is impressive, but it takes more than just turning a profit to build wealth: It requires a mind shift from short-term gains to long-term prosperity. A business owner must focus on the company's financial confidence...
Read MoreTips for Navigating Inflation as a Small Business Owner
Small business owners face many challenges, which may become even more significant during inflation. As inflation hit new highs in recent years, small business owners are being tested and challenged by high costs and high interest...
Read MoreSmart Strategies for Staying Ahead in Uncertain Markets
Staying ahead during uncertain market activity seems impossible, but smart strategies exist that can help you mitigate some of the risk of investing, particularly during uncertain market periods.
Read MoreSocial Security Isn’t Enough: How Social Security Fits into a Well-Rounded Retirement Plan
If you're nearing retirement age, you know the Social Security process and how much you will likely receive. With that information, you may have also anticipated that your Social Security benefit would not be enough to sustain you in...
Read MoreAsking for Help Is a Strength, Not a Weakness. Here Are 10 Ways a Financial Professional Can Assist
Often, there is a misconception that seeking financial help indicates incompetence or lack of financial self-sufficiency. However, seeking help is the exact opposite. High-performing individuals who excel in their respective fields...
Read MoreIt’s Not Too Late to Become Financially Literate
Financial literacy is crucial to a solid financial future and an enjoyable retirement. No matter your age, when you understand how to manage your money and finances, you can make sound financial decisions.
Read More5 Ways a Financial Professional May Help Propel High Earners Towards High-Net-Worth Status
The journey to prosperity involves more than just a high income. It requires strategic planning, wise investment decisions, and a keen understanding of your financial landscape.
Read MoreTax Season News and Survival Tips
It's not easy to keep up with complex tax laws that always seem to be changing, much less figure out how they might affect you personally.
Read MoreNavigating Credit Wisely as a HENRY: Strategies for Financial Success
One crucial aspect of managing your finances includes understanding how to use credit and credit cards wisely.
Read MoreDon’t Let Someone Go on Vacation on Your Dime: How to Keep Your Money Safe from Scammers
There is a drawback to technology, however. It often leaves us more vulnerable to scammers who hide behind the anonymity that technology provides and find ways to scam us out of our hard-earned money.
Read MoreYou want to start a business? Now what?
Starting a new business is no small feat. It involves several of steps, from the early planning stages to filling out the necessary legal documents. Here are 10 steps to consider when starting a new business.
Read MoreYou’re About to Retire: Here are 7 Tips to Stay Independent
Want to ensure your chance of living independently during your retirement? Below are a few tips to put you on the path toward an independent future.
Read MoreHow Portfolio Diversification Can Be Sweet Like a Box of Chocolates
In this article, we explore portfolio diversification by using concepts related to chocolate to make it more understandable – and palatable.
Read More4 Pre-Medicare Strategies for Managing Healthcare Costs
If you are close to your desired retirement age but are still a little ways off from Medicare eligibility, below are a few strategies for navigating healthcare costs during that gap period.
Read More6 Tips for Reducing Social Security Taxes
Determining how your income impacts Social Security (SS) taxes is important for tax planning. Factors that determine how much pay SS tax you pay, depending on your circumstances, include
Read MoreSuggestions for Staying Safe Online from the IRS
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is helping families, teens and senior citizens learn about the continued importance of protecting personal information in helping fight identity theft and tax fraud.
Read MoreOutlook 2024: A Turning Point
In 2024, we believe markets will make a definitive turn to a more recognizable place. En route, the transition will be marked by meaningful shifts in a few key areas. Inflationism going down.
Read More5 Financial Bad Habits to Cut This Year
When it comes to financial bad habits, the most common are also well known — don’t spend too much, don’t take on unsustainable debt, and avoid living paycheck to paycheck.
Read MoreThe History of New Year’s Resolutions: Learning From the Past to Influence Your Financial Behaviors
People have been making New Year’s resolutions for at least 4,000 years, beginning with the Babylonians, who supposedly made promises to the gods. The idea of transforming our lives for the better, from one year to the next, is powerful.
Read MoreSocial Security Benefits Set to Increase in 2024
In a welcome development for millions of Americans relying on Social Security, the Social Security Administration has recently announced a substantial increase in retirement and disability benefits. Starting in January 2024
Read MoreWill You Be Naughty or Nice To Your Finances This Holiday Season?
‘Tis the season for fun, family, and a lot of spending. Whether you plan to spend money on holiday gifts for the family, are planning a holiday event, or like to use the holiday season as your time for contributing to worthy causes.
Read MoreYour Year-End Estate Planning Guide: An 8-Step Checklist
When it comes to your estate plan, you don’t just have it drafted and put away until it is time for your loved ones to manage your lifetime of affairs. As your world changes year by year, it is critical that you review your estate plan
Read MoreNovember to Remember
Solid gains for both stocks and bonds gave investors a November to remember. As financial markets continue to defy skeptics
Read More5 Common RMD Mistakes That Could Ruin Your Retirement
According to US New Money, 62% of Americans aren’t even aware that they have to take an RMD, and a fair share of those that do make mistakes they could have avoided. Here are a five common RMD mistakes that could prove costly.
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