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Medicare can be complex and costly if you are not prepared when the time comes to enroll. Consider this Top 10 list to help you understand what Medicare is, what to do, and how it works, what not to do, and how it may impact you now...

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...

Tax identity theft is a serious type of fraud that affects individuals of all ages and stages of life. To steal a person's tax identity, a scammer uses that person's Social Security number and other personal and financial information...

As a retiree, you've likely spent a lifetime planning ahead by saving for the future, guarding your health, and building a legacy. But while gifts of cash or keepsakes are always appreciated, there’s another gift to consider that’s...

For members of the "Sandwich Generation"—those currently in their 40s and 50s who are caring for children and their parents who are over 65 years old—estate planning may seem like a low priority. After all, when you're juggling...

Every year, the holiday season inspires a beautiful wave of generosity. Donations surge. Volunteer sign-ups spike. People go out of their way to support those in need or brighten someone’s day. But what if that spirit of giving didn’t...

As the leaves begin to fall and the year winds down, autumn offers more than pumpkin spice and cozy sweaters. It’s also a good time to clean up your finances. Just like spring cleaning helps freshen your home, fall financial cleaning...

If you’re nearing age 65 or already enrolled in Medicare, it’s important to stay up to date on how the program is evolving. Every year brings small changes, and 2025 is no different. Whether you’re planning your first enrollment or...

A high-yield savings account (HYSA) is one of the tools you may use to manage your money. When interest rates are significantly higher than those of traditional savings accounts, HYSAs may be used for building an emergency fund, saving...

When it comes to repaying your student loans, one size does not necessarily fit all. The key to a manageable repayment plan is to find a strategy that works well for your goals, budget, and lifestyle. Here are some questions to help...

The time has finally arrived: your child is preparing for college and getting ready to take that next big life step. It is an exciting time, but for many parents, the financial responsibility and impact on their wallets can be...

Back-to-school season is always a busy time, but in 2025, it comes with a bigger-than-normal price tag. Between inflation, tariffs, and general economic uncertainty, everything from pencils to laptops may cost more this year. According...

Once you are in your 60s, you are likely to focus less on growing your retirement funds than answering, "When do I retire?" And once you crack open your nest egg, how should you allocate its contents? The answer often lies in a...

If you are lucky enough to retire early before you become eligible for Medicare at age 65, you may have to contend with an expense you haven’t had to worry about while employed—the cost of health insurance. Health insurance isn’t...

For many, the expenses of college or technical school can be overwhelming. But, with financial aid programs, tuition, room and board, books, and other college-related costs can become more affordable. To determine if your student...

You probably already know that insurance is something you should have in case of unforeseen events. When it comes to estate planning, insurance helps manage the distribution of your assets the way you see fit. It may also help prevent...

Suppose an emergency strikes and your family needs to quickly access important financial and personal information. Now, ask yourself—are these documents organized, secure, and easily accessible? Having a system for storing your crucial...

As a military family, you face challenges and opportunities in managing your finances. Planning for your financial future is important, regardless of where you are in your journey. Here are a few key financial considerations for...

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,...

Required minimum distributions, often called RMDs, are IRS-mandated account withdrawals that the retirement account owner must take. These distributions must begin when the account owner reaches a certain age. Understanding RMD...

Social Security is a vital component of retirement income for many. This government program provides monthly benefits and is funded primarily through payroll taxes. Understanding Social Security benefits and taxation is essential to...

As a small business owner, getting financing may be crucial to your success. However, with so many types of loans available, you may be unable to identify the appropriate one(s) for your business. Learn more about the most common types...

There are often red flags you may notice that indicate your parents have reached a point where they need help with their finances. At first, your parents might be resistant to this, believing they can still manage their financial lives...

The holidays are a season of giving, rejoicing, and celebrating. And sometimes, being joyous means having to spend some money. If you feel the pinch when the season ends, don’t worry! The following tips may help you get back on your...

Living a healthy lifestyle doesn’t just impact your body. It does wonders for your brain health as well. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, an estimated 6.9 million Americans are suffering from Alzheimer’s dementia, and the...

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...

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...

As the year comes to a close, there are some important deadlines that you shouldn’t ignore. These deadlines affect your taxes, savings, and, perhaps, your financial future. Here’s a simple guide to help you stay on track before this...

The “medical IRA” offers triple-tax benefits and is a unique retirement tool As retirement planning becomes increasingly complex, one vehicle is gaining attention for its potent blend of savings and tax advantages: the Health Savings...

You probably know it's important to have homeowner's insurance to protect your dwelling and belongings. But are you really taking advantage of all the benefits available to you? Below are ten ways you can get the most your homeowner's...

Planning and communication are your best tools to beat life-stage fright There are many seasons of life: a tapestry woven with threads of experience, love, and loss. There is a wedding season. Then, a homebuying season; and then, for...

Fall is a magical time of the year throughout much of the country. Waking to crisp autumn mornings, the changing of the leaves to reds, oranges, yellows, and the nostalgic scent of smoke from the cooking fires as if straight from a...

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...

Medicare is complex with many different moving parts involved. First and foremost, it is always beneficial to gain a solid understanding of your options. There are two main types of Medicare: Original Medicare Medicare Advantage (also...

Many dream of working toward early retirement, but getting there generally doesn’t happen by accident. Retiring early requires financial independence that can last for decades, but that is much easier said than done. To get there...

Growth investing and value investing are similar yet different financial concepts that motivate investors depending on several factors. These motivations vary from person-to-person based on their personality, upbringing, short—and...

Nearly every American worker includes Social Security benefits as part of their comprehensive retirement plan. As a member of the workforce, you pay Social Security taxes, which earn you “credits,” that go toward your Social Security...

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...

As we go through various stages of life, our insurance needs may vary significantly. Here’s a breakdown of the different stages: Early Adulthood (20s and 30s) Considerations: Affordability. Life insurance will be less expensive if an...

Although inflation is down from an all-time high, people are still pinching their family wallets—especially when it comes to back-to-school shopping.1 Whether you're buying for one student or several (or even for yourself), you may...

Although many teens are loath to admit it, they rely heavily on advice from trusted adults in their lives—especially their parents. As these teens begin moving out and heading to college, it becomes even more important to set them on a...

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...

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. On Financial Professional Day, explore how working with a...

If you're like some, you may have spent large parts of your working life missing the carefree summer days of your childhood. That is, of course, assuming you had a happy childhood. If not, try to imagine how it might be if your...

Building on our 2024 outlook, this midyear update dives deeper into the evolving economic and market environment, exploring its potential influence on your investment strategy.

Estate planning is a comprehensive process that involves organizing your assets and making informed decisions concerning how your wealth will be handled before and after death. It is a critical phase of wealth management, essential for...

To maintain good physical health, most people must exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, and keep stress to a minimum. Achieving financial wellness is no different. It requires careful planning, smart decision-making, and...

“A penny saved is a penny earned.” This nugget of financial wisdom from Benjamin Franklin, shared in the late 1700s, remains as relevant today as it was then. Despite living in a different era, our founding fathers were remarkably...

As the economic landscape continues to shift and evolve, one specter looms ominously over the horizon: inflation. For pre-retirees, individuals who are on the cusp of transitioning into their golden years, the effects of inflation can...

The aviation industry has grown since more and more passengers have taken to the skies to travel to their destinations. Jobs in the aviation industry have also been expanding and evolving, providing many with rewarding and fulfilling...

As a small business owner, having the right insurance coverage can be the difference between success and bankruptcy. While your specific insurance needs may vary widely depending on the nature of your business, there are several types...

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...

For many families, there’s a sense of excitement and anticipation that fills the air as high school seniors prepare to embark on their next journey: college. Graduation holds significant importance for students and their families, as...

Having your children move out of the house, leaving you and your spouse with an “empty nest,” is a life-altering experience. It will likely not be a quick adjustment, but preparing yourself mentally, emotionally, and even financially...

529 plans are tax-advantaged savings vehicles designed to accumulate contributions and help pay for the beneficiary's qualifying education expenses. Sometimes, 529 plans have unused funds after the beneficiary graduates or decide to...

Who doesn’t remember their first job, receiving your first paycheck, and even applying for and using a credit card for the first time? Access to money provides a sense of freedom and the ability to buy things you want with your own...

Most American workers who earn wage income and pay Social Security taxes via withholding receive Social Security benefits at some point in retirement. While the Social Security Administration has tried to make the process easier to...

If you are worried about being able to afford college costs for your children or teens, a 529 education plan might be one way to boost your savings. These plans allow you to save and invest for college while perhaps enjoying tax...

Members of the "sandwich generation"—those taking on the care of their aging parents while also raising children or financially supporting adult children—may feel stressed and overextended. Most current sandwich generation members are...

Spring is a time of renewal and rejuvenation, as the world awakens from its winter slumber and new life begins to bloom. As the saying goes, "April showers bring May flowers", and this sentiment can also apply to your financial life....

For real estate investors eyeing opportunities, 2024 could mark a pivotal moment in the market, according to insights from Cohen & Steers, a renowned asset manager with decades of experience in real estate investment. As the commercial...

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. Even so, it's important to consider the potential impact of taxes when making many types of...

As Samuel Goldwyn once said, "The harder I work…the luckier I get!" But when it comes to investing, luck may play a huge role in outcomes—no matter how hard you work. Below, we discuss some ways that luck may...

Today, there are an estimated 12.3 million women-owned businesses. To give that some context, approximately 43% of entrepreneurs worldwide are women. A study conducted by Fidelity Investments showed that women are often less prepared...

An executor of an estate or trust plays a pivotal role in the legal system, especially when dealing with the responsibilities and tasks related to a deceased person's property and financial matters. The executor acts as the manager and...

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...

Whether you want to save money, pay off debt, or simply gain a better understanding of your financial habits, it’s essential to keep a close eye on your spending. This article explores five essential strategies to help you track...

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....

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...

Retiring early as a couple is a goal shared by many, and if planned comprehensively, it may provide opportunities for travel, passion projects, and more quality time together. Retiring simultaneously can bring many benefits, such as...

Sometimes, based on the movement of the market and your risk tolerance, you may look for investment opportunities with a strategy encompassing wealth growth while mitigating the risk of unanticipated loss. There are two popular...

The holiday season is a wonderful time for relaxing and having fun with family and friends, but it can also add a lot of extra stress to an already tight budget. Perhaps you spent more than you originally planned, or maybe you...

Recently, the IRS announced it was raising the contribution limit for 401(k)s to $23,000 for 2024, up from $22,500. Having the ability to put more money away can help you prepare for a retirement that may be here faster than you think.

Whether your retirement is within the next couple of years or the next five, the new year is the perfect time to make financial resolutions to help you toward your retirement goals. Below are just a few financial resolutions to consider...

With the end of the year approaching, charitable giving often comes to mind. The tax benefits associated with charitable giving could potentially enhance your ability to give and should be considered as part of your year-end tax planning.

The end of the year serves as a natural checkpoint for many financial and personal processes, and with the arrival of the final months of the year, proactive preparation becomes essential. Whether you are an individual looking to...

Tax season is almost here, and could be a good time to get prepared for filing your taxes. If you make your living in the agricultural industry, there are a few year-end tax tips that might help make the process go more smoothly....

It can be difficult to put time aside for fitness at this time of year; your household’s or family’s calendar can fill up with get-togethers and to-dos. “These days, it seems like a struggle to keep our family moving...

American Express created Small Business Saturday in 2010 to provide small businesses with a holiday season boost on the heels of Black Friday. The day comes after one of the biggest shopping sales events and serves as a reminder to...

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...

You may have thought your digital identity was safe and not a likely target of a cybercriminal until one day, the bank calls wondering if purchases made at a store that you have never been to, 2,000 miles away, were made by you. Every...

The crude oil and natural gas industry has faced significant challenges since the COVID pandemic, including supply disruptions, price volatility, and rapid inflation. However, heavy cash flow for oil and gas companies has led to a...

Managing money may seem stressful at times. Unexpected expenses, changes in employment, and changes in family or lifestyle may all lead to money issues. Making sure you have money saved up for the unexpected is crucial. Here are some...

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,...

IRMAA, which stands for Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount, is a term that may not be familiar to everyone. However, for individuals enrolled in Medicare, IRMAA can have a significant impact on their healthcare costs. Here are...

For many, autumn is the best time of year. The return of cool breezes, comforting foods, and pumpkins can be invigorating. It’s also a bookmark of sorts, especially for your finances—a perfect time to take stock of your...

On September 13, 2023, it was announced that August saw inflation record its biggest monthly increase for all of 2023 as energy prices rose significantly....

At a time when your career is reaching a peak and you are looking ahead to your own retirement, you may find yourself in the position of having to help your children with college expenses or the financial challenges of young adulthood...

Age plays a role in many aspects of life, and business is no different. Unfortunately, many have a perception of youth being something essential when it comes to succeeding in business. However, history has shown that this is hardly...

Go out into your yard and dig a big hole. Every month, throw $50 into it, but don't take any money out until you're ready to buy a house, send your child to college, or retire. It sounds a little crazy, doesn't it? But that's what...