Should I Pay Off My Mortgage?
Being unsure whether to pay off your mortgage or not is a good problem to have. It means you have significant savings and have afforded yourself some choices. While the idea of being debt-free is appealing to many, there are also compelling reasons to keep your mortgage. Let’s explore both sides of the debate to […]
Long-Term Care Planning – Why you should start thinking about it now
Long-term care is a broad term that encompasses a range of services and support for those who can no longer care for themselves due to age-related struggles. In general, once someone can no longer complete the six core Activities of Daily Living shown below,1 it’s usually time to consider some form of long-term care, whether […]
Open Enrollment—Are you leaving money on the table?
Each fall, millions of workers face important decisions about their health, vision, and dental insurance options during Open Enrollment. Navigating these choices can be confusing, and misunderstandings about policies often lead to missed or underutilized benefits. As we approach this critical period in October, it’s crucial to understand your options to maximize protection and minimize […]
7 Keys to Navigating Market Volatility
Market volatility can be unsettling, especially when you see your investments fluctuating day by day. However, staying calm and sticking to a well-thought-out strategy can help you navigate these turbulent times effectively. Here are some key steps to consider when dealing with market volatility: Don’t Forget History Market downturns are a natural part of the […]
Having the “Money Talk” with Aging Parents
Discussing finances with aging parents is never easy. As a result, many families simply delay these conversations or avoid them altogether. This can lead to unexpected financial surprises, misunderstandings, and even conflicts down the road. By talking openly about money, you ensure both their future and yours are secure, prevent potential disputes, and help in […]
Are You Following the Financial Herd?
Herd mentality is the tendency to follow the actions of a larger group, even when those actions might not be in one’s best interest. When it comes to finances, herd mentality can have significant implications for your investments and retirement planning. The first step to avoiding this common bias is understanding its prevalence. Second, is […]
Investing 101: Compound Interest
Compound interest might sound complex, but it’s actually based on a very simple principle: earning interest on your interest. Here’s a clear and simplified way of understanding this important concept. Imagine you save some money, let’s say $100, which grows at 10% annually. At the end of the first year, you earn 10% interest on […]
Why Your College Student May Need a Healthcare Proxy
When it’s time to send our children to college, there’s a lot to think about—securing financial aid, moving their stuff, finding them a place to live. It’s easy to see how you might overlook their health. Once your child turns 18, they have the right to medical privacy. That means if they’re incapacitated and hospitalized, […]
Why Financial Teams?
When it comes to financial advice, the benefits of working with a team rather than an individual advisor become increasingly clear as your financial needs grow more complex. A team can offer a range of insights and perspectives, bringing a more comprehensive approach to managing your finances. There are a wide variety of teams out […]
How Your Financial Professional Can Help You Save for Your Children’s Education
When clients consult a financial professional, one of their most common goals is to put their children through college. They have questions on everything from how they should save to when they should start saving. By tailoring your savings strategy to your specific situation—income, number of children, timeframe of their education, and risk tolerance—you can […]