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Even before your children can count, they already know something about money: it's what you have to give the ice cream man to get a cone, or put in the slot to ride the rocket ship at the grocery store. So, as soon as your children...

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...

What Can Packing a Suitcase Teach You About Life?

Carrie Turcotte CFP^®, RICP^®

Friday, March 6, 2026

What can packing a suitcase teach you about life? Recently a good friend of mine showed me her packing hack for traveling with a carry-on versus full-size luggage. And while she had told me how to do it before, the visualization of the...

Many parents may be hesitant to discuss their personal, financial affairs with their children. However, as your children grow older, it can work to your advantage—and that of your entire family— to share with them key financial,...

Losing a loved one can be an incredibly challenging time. Amidst the emotional turmoil, there's the daunting task of dealing with financial matters—one of which is filing income taxes. This article aims to guide you through the process...

Divorce can significantly change life and has considerable implications on taxes. Tax filing after divorce requires understanding new filing statuses, exemptions, child deductions, alimony, and property settlements, among other things....

Alimony and child support are critical financial components often arising during divorce proceedings. These payments can significantly impact both parties' finances, particularly during tax time. Understanding how these payments are...

Welcoming a baby is exciting, life‑changing—and full of new financial responsibilities. Here’s a streamlined checklist of the most important money moves to make in your child’s first weeks and months. 1. Add Your Baby to Health...

Becoming a grandparent is a joyful milestone—one that often inspires a desire to help support the next generation. Whether you want to contribute financially, plan for future education costs, or ensure your own financial health remains...

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...

Tax planning might be complex, but it's also essential—especially for wealthy families, where missing tax breaks or failing to optimize income could cost significant dollars, maybe millions, over a lifetime. And even in the short term,...

Credit card use can be beneficial to your finances if managed appropriately. Learning to balance credit card use with spending habits while also saving can positively impact your finances over time. Credit card use often helps increase...

Financial wellness is a state of being when one is in control of their finances, can cover expenses, and save for future goals. Consider financial wellness as your relationship with money; it can be either healthy or unhealthy....

Americans are very generous. According to Fidelity, Americans give over $500 billion to charities each year, most of which come from individual donors. Over the years, despite periods of economic downturn, giving has grown above the...

Single parents shoulder the responsibility of not only providing for their children's immediate needs but also planning for their future. Whether single, widowed, or divorced, establishing an estate plan is arguably the best gift one...

Booker T. Washington once said, "Those who are happiest are those who do the most for others." In 2024, Americans gave $592.5 billion to charitable organizations, making America one of the most generous nations in the world. The...

In times of economic uncertainty, it’s easy to let financial stress overshadow everything else. And sadly, the holiday season isn't exempt from this. But here’s a little insight you might overlook: Holiday cheer might be a rewarding...

One of the more difficult conversations for family members to have is talking about estate planning. There are several reasons for this, including the reality of our own mortality and that of our loved ones. In some families, it is an...

As the year winds down, it’s time to prepare for one of the most critical monetary tasks: year-end tax planning. Due to the nature of their holdings and dynamic financial situation, many often grapple with complex tax management issues...

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...

Those turning 65 this year have a 7 in 10 chance of needing long-term care (LTC) at some point.1 With the cost of a private room in a nursing home now topping $100,000 per year, the thought of paying this — or for a loved one — can be...

As wealthy individuals age, healthcare and health insurance coverage become increasingly important. One group that may overlook Medicare is wealthy individuals, because they may be unsure whether they qualify. The privileges of...

The holidays may still seem far away. But if you’re looking to save money and manage stress, now might be the time to start shopping, especially in today’s economic climate. Between rising prices, inflation-related cost increases, and...

Heading into your retirement years brings a slew of new topics to grapple with, and one of the most maddening may be Medicare. Figuring out when to enroll, what to enroll in and what coverage will be best for you can be daunting. To...

Taking care of a loved one as they age is difficult. You have to find the balance between allowing them to maintain a level of independence and ensuring they have the proper care when needed. If it comes to a point where your loved one...

Owning luxury assets such as exquisite homes, cars, yachts, and priceless art pieces requires safeguarding them against potential risks or loss. This situation is where umbrella insurance comes into play. It acts as an extra layer of...

For many families, having a family member act as the caregiver for an aging loved one seems like the perfect option. While it is usually most comfortable for the loved one to be cared for by a family member, it may become difficult for...

A critical part of financial planning that is often overlooked is insurance. Having various insurance policies will provide different benefits to your financial plan, ranging from protection to tax breaks. In fact, insurance is a...

Putting these habits into practice may help you work towards saving money. But don’t just go spend what you just saved – instead consider investing the “found money” into your retirement.

In today's fast-paced economic environment, fluctuating interest rates on educational loans are standard. Keeping an eye on these changes is crucial as they can significantly impact one's repayment strategy and financial outlook. Understand

Teaching children about money and financial literacy through games can make learning fun. Financial literacy games can also prepare children for financial confidence in adulthood while making parents and children comfortable talking about m

Money can be a confusing and unapproachable topic for adults, let alone for kids. The key is to teach children about money early so that they can develop a healthy relationship with it. Here are the best ways to give children a glimpse...

If you're a parent or grandparent, chances are you've either helped a child through school, are currently doing so, or are planning for future educational expenses—whether for children, grandchildren, or even yourself. The newly...

Back-to-school season is exciting, but it may also be financially overwhelming, especially if you're navigating it on a single income. Whether you're divorced, widowed, or a solo parent by choice or circumstance, you're already wearing...

On July 4th, President Trump signed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” which includes a broad range of tax reform provisions. The provisions listed in the bill may help offer small businesses much-needed tax relief. According to the...

On July 4th, President Trump signed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” which includes a broad range of tax reform provisions. The provisions listed in the bill may help offer the middle- and working-class Americans much-needed tax...

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...

We started 2025 on a high note, although we acknowledged that “no market environment is ever permanent, and that change is always potentially around the corner.” Well change did come, and with it, volatility...

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...

As climate patterns change and weather-related disasters become more frequent, purchasing a flood insurance policy or adding a rider to an existing policy has become a vital asset protection strategy. Before adding this specialized...

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...

Retirees often have the time, freedom, and desire to explore new destinations and make the most of their golden years. With careful planning and attention to detail, senior travelers can work towards preparing trips that are safe, enjoyable

Ever since a legal secretary named Ida May Fuller received the first retirement benefit check in 1940, women have been counting on Social Security to provide much-needed retirement income. Social Security provides other important...

Vacations are an investment. A lot of planning and money goes into having the best trip possible—but should you buy travel insurance to protect yourself in the event of unforeseen changes and emergencies? The guide below explains the...

I know that hurricane season starts on June 1. What should I be doing to protect my home (and my finances) from storms this summer? This is the perfect time to take steps to help your home avoid damage from summer storms and other...

For generations, homeownership has been billed as the hallmark of the American Dream. However, for high earners, it can also be a way to reduce taxes, receive more favorable capital gains treatment, and invest in their family's future....

Starting and running a business may be exciting and challenging. If you’re a woman and a business owner, you may face some obstacles, but there are many ways to gain a competitive edge. Here are ten tips to help you succeed and stand...

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,...

Most people know that once they approach retirement age, their reward for years of work comes from Social Security payments they put money towards during their employment. Deciding when to file for your Social Security payments is...

When was the last time you sat down with your insurance provider to review all your insurance coverages? Many people are unaware of the gaps in coverage they need. When you buy a home, one of the first things you do is protect it with...

A 529 Plan, also known as a "qualified tuition plan," is an investment vehicle that offers numerous benefits to parents seeking to save for their children's future education. 529s are versatile and provide significant advantages that...

Wealth and estate planning are vital for all individuals but are particularly essential for high-net-worth (HNW) individuals in the sandwich generation. "Sandwich generation" refers to individuals caring for their aging parents and...

A common characteristic of high achievers is they are generally voracious readers. Former Microsoft CEO Bill Gates claims to read 50 books annually and investing guru and chairperson of Berkshire Hathaway Warren Buffet reads between...

Studies have shown that most adults are only able to correctly respond to 50% of the questions related to what is considered “basic” personal finance, including topics in banking, credit, debt management, and savings (NEA, 2024). It is...

Navigating the intricacies of Social Security (SS) after divorce or death can feel overwhelming, but it does not have to be. Whether you are a divorcee or a surviving spouse, understanding the rules surrounding SS benefits can...

New research from Fidelity Investments gives a unique insight into how many women approach investing and other financial decisions.1 For example, more than half of all women, compared with just 43 percent of all men, say they would...

There are several reasons why it's important to spring clean your financial plan. Taking inventory, organizing, and setting new goals and priorities, to name just a few. Here are some tips to get started on your financial de-clutter project

If you don’t have immediate family or a partner, estate planning may feel overwhelming, but with a bit of thoughtful planning, you could create a roadmap for your assets that reflects your values, creating a blueprint for when you pass.

Divorce can have considerable tax implications. Tax filing after divorce requires understanding new filing statuses, child deductions, alimony, and more. Here are the steps to help navigate filing taxes the first year after divorce.

Less than a quarter of adult females feel they were prepared when it comes to financial matters, leaving many women struggling to handle their financial future. Here are some tips to help women take control of their financial futures.

The new month brings two major market-moving stories to digest. First is the advances in artificial intelligence (AI) by Chinese startup DeepSeek. Impending tariffs on our three biggest trading partners are also among the news...

Stephany Pedigo is The Chambliss estate planning team often helps families navigate the complexities of administering a loved one's estate. Challenges can arise in addressing the personal property in the estate. Wills commonly provide...

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...

Stocks had another very strong year in 2024. In fact, 2024 marked the first time the S&P 500 has enjoyed a +20% gain in back-to-back years since 1997–98. Last year didn’t start out so optimistically though...

Success is not solely reliant on talent or luck, but rather on dedication, perseverance, and pushing through challenges...

Alimony and child support are critical financial components often arising during divorce proceedings. These payments can significantly impact both parties' finances, particularly during tax time. Understanding how these payments are...

As the year draws to a close, it's a good time to consider strategies to minimize your federal tax burden for 2024. Here are three steps you can take...

Solid gains for stocks gave investors a November to remember. In fact, the S&P 500’s more than 5% advance marked its best month of 2024. Several factors played into the stock market’s continued move higher...

Giving is more than just writing a check. It represents a meaningful experience and an enduring impact felt by your family and by those you are helping. Consider these four steps to take when creating a giving plan.

Investors are preoccupied — and rightfully so — with inflation risks from tariffs. As the International Trade Administration thoroughly explains, a tariff is a tax on the customs value of an imported product. Who bears the cost of the tax?

Charitable giving is a way to participate in something meaningful to you and your family, a cause that aligns with your core values while benefiting your community. This article delves into aspects of charitable giving this new year.

Employing tax-smart retirement withdrawal strategies may help you maximize your retirement nest egg. Here are seven tax-smart retirement withdrawal strategies to help mitigate your tax burden and maintain financial confidence.

Planning for long-term care (LTC) is essential to your retirement planning. Medicare only covers a limited number of LTC services, so you'll need to consider other strategies to manage your future LTC needs.

Competing with the desire to own your home outright is your need to invest for retirement, your child's college education, or some other goal. Putting extra cash toward one of these goals may mean sacrificing another. So how do you choose?

Navigating Divorce Financials: Top Financial Challenges for Women After Divorce or Widowhood

Carrie Turcotte CFP®, RICP®

Wednesday, September 18, 2024

Navigating divorce or widowhood brings not only emotional upheaval but also a host of financial challenges. While it can feel overwhelming, planning ahead can empower women to regain control and make informed decisions for a stable future.

September is national insurance month. We’ve put together a highlight of some of the stages of life and insurance needs that may coincide. While most people don’t want to talk about insurance, around our office, we face the hard...

Recent economic data shows a certain divide between savers and borrowers. While some sectors like restaurants and theme parks are experiencing a decline, others like air travel and food delivery are thriving. What does that mean for you?

If you are worried about how your portfolio will perform during an election year, consider these five reasons why investors could benefit during election season.

As you embark upon your medical career as a resident or new attending physician, preparing for financial independence is a top priority. Making the appropriate financial decisions now can set the stage for a financially confident future.

Rebuilding your finances post-divorce can be challenging, but with planning and resilience, it is possible. Keep your goals in mind, focus on long-term financial independence, and use these tips to get a fresh start for your finances. 

How will my 529 plan be treated for financial aid purposes? It actually depends on who the account holder is - a parent or a grandparent. Here we discuss how the existence of a 529 plan may affect your financial aid eligibility.

Supporting a family on one income can be a challenge. For single parents who don't have a partner to lighten the emotional and logistical load, these financial pressures can be especially stressful. However, there are some ways to make...

Generational wealth involves proactive financial planning, especially when parents or grandparents pass on their wealth to loved ones after they die. Entrusting family members with receiving an inheritance is more than just getting a...

It's hard to imagine becoming disabled, and harder still to imagine a disability lasting longer than a few weeks. But serious disabilities can last years or even a lifetime. That's why you should pay attention to whether a disability...

For many women, working toward financial independence is more difficult. Obstacles women face include having a longer life expectancy than men which will require more savings for retirement, spending fewer years in the workforce than...

You are finally retired after a lifetime of hard work, juggling responsibilities, and managing stress. During the pre-retirement phase, you did some planning, excited with the prospect of checking off that long list of all the things...

According to research from Vanguard, younger workers today are participating in their workplace retirement plans at higher rates and saving more compared to 15 years ago, due in part to increased education and attractive employer matches.

The ‘Sandwich Generation’ refers to a generation of individuals caught between the demands of caregiving for their aging parents and their children, a challenging reality for many women today. Here are some tips to help navigate.

Soaring airfare and accommodation costs may mean that a traditional vacation is out of budget for many this year. Here’s a look at why staycations are becoming more popular, and tips on planning a memorable family staycation.

Vacation homes require a special type of insurance--one that protects your vacation home but doesn't overlap with your already existing homeowners insurance coverage. Here are some things to consider when insuring your vacation home.

Did you know that 529 Savings Plans can also play a vital role in the wealth transfer of a donor? We know that there are so many benefits from an education savings and tax deferral standpoint, but there are many other benefits as well.

529 plans are a tool for those looking to save for college for their children, grandchildren, or any family member. In honor of the upcoming 529 College Savings Day, let’s dispel some of the most common myths associated with these plans.

Charitable Giving is not only a meaningful way of helping others but also for the numerous benefits it offers to the giver. Here are 10 benefits of charitable giving for the affluent investor.

May 29th is National 529 Day, where we strive to bring education and awareness around 529 Education Savings Plans. Here are a few ways, including 529s, that parents can lighten the weight of college debt for themselves, and their children.

Seeking the help of a professional to assist in one's wealth planning leaves more time for individuals to focus on their primary specialty area and business drivers, thus driving efficiency in managing results.

April is Stress Awareness Month, and there's no better time to reflect on and address the stressors that may impact our lives. Financial stress is an interesting challenge for high-net-worth individuals and families since most...

Over the past few years, the market has appeared to be on a rollercoaster, providing investors with moments of excitement followed by heart-palpitating anxiety. Staying ahead during uncertain market activity seems impossible, but smart...

As an affluent family, planning for your children's education is likely a top priority. You want to ensure that they have access to the best education possible without worrying about the high cost of tuition; this is where 529 plans...

A new trend, known as “gray divorce,” is a phenomenon that is redefining marriage and retirement in America. It refers to couples aged 50 and older who are getting divorced.

The tax filing deadline is fast approaching, which means time is running out to fund an IRA for 2023. If you had earned income last year, you may be able to contribute up to $6,500 for 2023 ($7,500 for those age 50 or older by December...

Financial confidence is a state of mind that develops over time. It's not about having all the answers or achieving instant financial security. Signs of progress include: Feeling comfortable discussing money openly. Making financial...

Planning for the future and safeguarding your assets can be complex and daunting. Whether you are aiming to preserve your wealth for future generations, manage tax implications, or protect your property against potential lawsuits or...

Embarking on retirement alone, either by choice or due to unforeseen circumstances such as the loss of a partner or divorce, presents a unique set of challenges and considerations. With the rise in divorce rates among those aged 50 and...

As we witness a societal shift with more women taking control of their financial health, it's clear that financial empowerment is no longer a men's only domain. This is crucial, especially considering the fact that the average age of...

What Married Women Should Know About Financial Independence Married women—particularly those with young children—are statistically more likely than other demographic groups to leave the workforce after marriage.1 Even for...

It is no secret that women are less likely than men to apply for jobs that they see as long shots—indeed, one recent survey indicated that more than a quarter of women are unwilling to apply for any job where they have less than...

The financial landscape is undergoing a significant transformation as the "Great Wealth Transfer" approaches, ushering in a new era of prosperity for younger generations. Over the next two decades, trillions of dollars will change...

Wealth preservation is an essential part of financial planning. Women in particular have unique considerations when it comes to this area of financial planning. Here are a few strategies women should know as they plan for the future.

Financial planning is a critical element for the success of any private business owner. It provides a roadmap for working toward both short-term and long-term goals and can help improve the financial health of the business. However,...

When the market moves, whether up, down, or in circles, there are terms to describe these dubious economic fluctuations. Here, we will discuss two of them, deflation and disinflation, and why investors should plan for both. Deflation...

The newest generation of upcoming retirees is facing a more unique and prominent dilemma than past generations have experienced: caring for family members at the same time they’re preparing for retirement. There are plenty of...

As high-net-worth individuals navigate the complexities of financial planning during their working years, one critical aspect often goes overlooked—long-term care. In 2021, the median monthly cost of a private room in a nursing...

In the world of investing, the "holiday effect," as it is often referred to, is a phenomenon where stock prices see an increase right before a major holiday. There are many theories on why this may occur. It could be from trading...

As a female entrepreneur, you may face different challenges than your male counterparts. You may also tend to earn less than your male peers—largely in part because they are still responsible for the majority of the world's...

Women have been givers since ancient times. They often give with their heart and soul to support projects that improve society.  In our modern times, successful women are now finding themselves in positions that allow them to...

At the end of the year, it is necessary to reflect on your financial picture, review the last 12 months, and plan for the future. With all that is involved, it can seem overwhelming. Consider breaking up the responsibilities over 12...

How to Give Well and Wisely  Having a desire to give and a philanthropic mindset are both important qualities to possess in modern society. With so many economic and social challenges in society, contributions to charities and...

What You Need to Know    If you or a loved one are approaching the point of needing elder care, you may be wondering what your options are. What level of care is right for your situation? How will you pay for care? What will...

Veterans and military members have access to various investment options, some of which are not offered to the general population. Managing investments depends on individual goals, risk tolerance, and financial situation. Here are some...

Whether you've had a long-term care insurance (LTCI) policy for years or you're thinking of buying one, it's critical to understand exactly what set of conditions will trigger coverage. This information is the bread and butter of any...

As many of you know, October is breast cancer awareness month.  In February 2011, my mother received a breast cancer diagnosis on her birthday.  To this day, I can tell you exactly where I was when Mom called to let me know.  Breast cancer

It's generally a good idea to review your employer-sponsored retirement savings plan at least once each year and when major life changes occur. If you haven't given your plan a thorough review within the last 12 months, now may be a...

September welcomes fall – and not a moment too soon with the heat the end of this summer! It also is a month we celebrate Working Parents Day. To be fair, I think the parents who stay at home have the hardest job of all! However, I am fortu

The National Women's Business Council estimates that there are more than 13 million women-owned businesses in the U.S., generating nearly $2 trillion in annual revenue.1  To aid in these impressive efforts, many governmental and...

Being successful in the business world has been especially challenging for women in recent decades as they continue to strive for equality in the workplace and advancement as well as comparable advancement opportunities. At the same...

What is it? By definition, a crisis is a turning point, a time when you have to make crucial decisions (often suddenly) that will affect your future. Although smart planning is the key to effectively dealing with periods of crisis, you...

Baby boomers’ huge numbers and surprisingly shaky health threaten government old-age benefits. That’s why you need to bolster your own retirement finances more than ever – and pay attention to your insurance needs....

At one time, the typical American family looked like this: a breadwinner father who commuted a short distance to work and earned a very good living, and a stay-at-home mother who took care of the kids and family home with aplomb. Life...

Women play a central role in establishing and preserving family wealth -- whether nurturing the values of children, fulfilling charitable goals, or making investment decisions that affect the financial security of themselves or their...

As a woman, you have financial needs that are unique to your situation in life. Perhaps you would like to buy your first home. Maybe you need to start saving for your child's college education. Or you might be concerned about planning...

In the U.S., women control a third of household assets. But by 2030, U.S. women are expected to control much of the assets that the baby boomer generation will pass to heirs, roughly 30 trillion in assets. High-earning women have...

Women own nearly 20% of the businesses that employ people in the United States, and countless more women run their businesses without employees. There are over one million women-owned firms. They employ over 10 million people and...

Every woman needs to balance her financial past with her financial futureTraditionally, women have been the caretakers of both the older and younger generations of their families. But providing care for family members is becoming...

Finances are dicey for those simultaneously caring for their parents and kidsOver the last 20 years, the median-age for Americans (the median age is the point where exactly half the population is older and the other half is younger)...

3 Steps To Declare Your Financial IndependenceFinancial independence means different things to different people. For some, it might mean early retirement. For others, the ability to travel the world. It is the freedom to leave a job...

Getting old is hard. Your parents’ ability to manage their own finances may decline as they age. Helping them with money matters is a sensitive issue you need to approach carefully.When you hit a certain age of your life, you may...

Annuity products have grown more sophisticated over the years to meet the demands of today's more sophisticated investors.Just as mutual funds grew in popularity as an alternative to certificates of deposit, the variable annuity was...

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...

Inclusion is a decent thing to do from a human standpoint. It may also improve the profitability of a business that commits to investing with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors in mind.1 Whether you are part of the...

Women are successful professionals, business owners, and knowledgeable investors. At some point in their lives, women may have to manage their own finances due to divorce, widowhood, or remaining single. Every day, women face a variety...

As a female entrepreneur, you may face different challenges than your male counterparts. For example, women were disproportionately affected by the COVID pandemic. 1 They also tend to earn less than their male peers—largely in...

Being a mom is one of the most rewarding experiences for many, but it also comes with a host of challenges. Whether you are juggling multiple kids, are a working mom, or just starting out on your motherhood path, one of the most...

In 2021, women-led companies only received 2% of all venture capital funding, a figure considered the lowest percentage in more than five years.1  Data shows this figure does not necessarily reflect the potential success of...

A drawdown is looming. You're separating at the end of active service. You've decided to retire after a long career. No matter why you're leaving the military, a big part of preparing for your civilian life is taking steps to...

Today’s women are more educated and have more significant job opportunities compared to previous generations. Despite more women in the workforce than ever before, women still experience considerable pay disparity compared to...

As a business owner, you may assume you do not need professional financial advice until you hit certain milestones such as $1 million in sales, having ten employees, or some other tangible measure. However, financial professionals may...

The loss of a spouse can be a devastating, life-changing event. Due to longer life expectancies, women are more likely to face this situation.Becoming a widow at any age can be one of the most difficult challenges a woman must face....

When was the last time you learned about anything financial?April is National Financial Literacy Month – an entire month dedicated to underscoring the importance of learning, establishing and maintaining healthy financial habits...

Times to Call Your Financial AdvisorMost of us go to see professionals when we’re in trouble or during times of crisis. Think about it. We go to the doctor when we’re sick. We go see a lawyer when we have a pending legal...

For many women, working toward financial independence is more difficult. Obstacles women face include having a longer life expectancy than men which will require more savings for retirement, spending fewer years in the...

Credit card use can be beneficial to your finances if managed appropriately. Learning to balance credit card use with spending habits while also saving can positively impact your finances over time. Credit card use often helps increase...

For decades the number of single-parent households has been rising worldwide, with the U.S. having the highest rate of children living in single-parent households. Economic well-being for these households is concerning since it is up...

Women’s History Month has its origins as a national celebration in 1981 when Congress passed and authorized a resolution and requested the President to...

What is a spending plan? Your spending plan is your active strategy for getting where you want to go. Think of your spending plan as a road map that helps you reach your goals, as well as give you a sense of direction. Your spending...

When you are busy running a company, it may be difficult to think about your taxes. Proactive tax planning helps you to avoid an unexpected tax liability when you file. These helpful strategies may offset your tax liability and might...

With the signing of the Omnibus Appropriations package into law, both employees and employers can take advantage of more than 90 new provisions aimed at creating opportunities to create or modify workplace retirement plans and...

When you’re busy juggling your career, family, social life, and multiple other obligations, you may end up feeling as if you don’t have enough time to do it all. Often, the solution lies in improving how you manage your...

After years of saving and planning for their golden years, many people nearing retirement fail to consider the tax burden they may face on income they receive after they stop working. While you will likely see a reduction in the amount...

Our homes are supposed to be an escape from reality. A safe place we can go to unwind from the stresses of the day, be that from work or from life as a whole. But when this place of comfort becomes your work space, it can be...

Regardless of whether you prepare your taxes yourself or use a professional's services, it's a good idea to gather the information and documentation you need well in advance of your actual tax filing date. Below, we've listed some key...

While most people find the notion of creating a budget about as appealing as cleaning out closets, most would agree that the result—a well-crafted and useful budget—is worth the work. Two financial “snapshots” you...

With the holidays here, now is the time to get into the giving spirit and help to change others' lives for the better. Whether you are looking to make a difference in a specific person's life or the life of many, there are many ways to...

Winter break is an exciting time for kids­—days off from school, giving presents and receiving them, and more time to have play dates with classmates. But that time off can quickly turn from exciting to boring...

A well-crafted business plan can be a blueprint for entrepreneurial confidence. This multifaceted tool is as important to established business owners looking to grow their companies as it is to budding entrepreneurs. A business plan...

Tax planning can be advantageous when done during the year and well in advance of year’s end. Opportunities exist for you to mitigate tax liability, which may leave more income for you and/or your family. Generally, people put off...

Too many people don’t realize that taking care of themselves physically can lead to more confident financial tomorrows.Planning for retirement should start in your early twenties, if not before. Why? Because you can develop good...

Is it memory loss due to the aging process or the early onset of dementia? Initially, cognitive changes can be subtle and challenging to diagnose. As a result, it can be difficult to decide if a loved one is able to continue living...

Tax planning can be more advantageous when done during the year and well in advance of year’s end. Opportunities may exist for you to minimize tax liability, which could leave more income for you and/or your family.Generally,...

With more and more seniors aging in place, the rise in caregivers who are not health professionals has begun to increase as well. Informal caregivers may find that their work is rewarding, since they ensure that their loved one is...

Shopping online saves you a trip to the store and gives you more time in your day, but sometimes shipping costs and prices have you spending more than you probably wanted to. Use these money saving tips to make online shopping cost and...

When it comes to estate planning, women have unique concerns. The fact is that women live an average of 5.0 years longer than men.* That's important because it means that there's a greater chance that you'll need your assets to last...

If your 65th birthday is coming up—or if you're receiving Social Security Disability payments and are about to qualify for Medicare before age 65—you may be wondering exactly what comes next.1 Below, we discuss some...

When it comes to saving for retirement, women may have extra challenges, even those with a higher-than-average income. For retirement planning, CNBC reports that women save less than men. The pandemic worsened matters, with more than 2...

Nine of every 10 U.S. families with children have at least one working parent.1 Though working parents make up one of the largest demographic groups in the country, they face many challenges—from the cost of childcare to...

The business landscape is continually changing—technological advances, corporate downsizing, restructuring, and telecommuting have reshaped the marketplace.­ Although these improvements and modifications have a great impact...

Today, like so many other women, you may be facing a new challenge while you’re still working full time. Your children are growing up just as your parents are slowing down and need assistance with daily activities. Although years...

Have you ever made a purchase that has thrown your monthly budget off-kilter? Or maybe you’ve put financial restrictions on yourself that push you away from spending on things that bring you joy. The phrase “treat...

Few U.S. high schools have comprehensive personal finance programs, which means that some teens enter adulthood without a deep base of knowledge on topics like investing, budgeting, and consumer debt. Even those who feel they're fairly...

As you progress along your career path, there's no telling how far you'll go. But to fully reap the financial rewards of all your hard work, you'll need to take charge of your own career. Here are a few issues you'll want to pay close...

Even before your children can count, they already know something about money: it's what you have to give the ice cream man to get a cone, or put in the slot to ride the rocket ship at the grocery store. So, as soon as your children begin...

Americans are budgeting more due to the pandemic. Knowing where your money is going and making sure you're adequately funding your future could be helpful to maintain your lifestyle for the decades that you may live. Whether you're a...

Younger adults face a variety of challenges in their pursuit of financial independence. Keep reading for five financial tips to help you manage your personal finances and prepare for your future.

Do you find yourself sandwiched between caregiving demands, career peaks, and looking ahead to your own retirement? Read the following strategies to help navigate through the sandwich generation phase.

In retirement, it is sometimes necessary to create new social connections and a new social network, especially if you relied on work for your socialization. Check out the benefits of social wellness that bring many retirees a happier life.

Every woman needs to balance her financial past with her financial future. Keep reading for tips on how women can help build financial independence.

The need for regular saving and investing spans many life stages. Through the years, your goals will change and your strategies will shift, but don’t be alarmed. You’re just progressing through the normal stages of life,...

When it comes to your retirement, there are three factors that you may want to take into account when planning for your retirement income needs.

America’s Founding Fathers created the foundation of a nation like no other. Each had goals and dreams, many with high expectations of what the United States of America could become. For today’s citizens, it may be possible...

Even though housing prices throughout much of the U.S. are at or near all-time highs, there are still many distinct financial advantages to owning a home.1 From tax benefits to capital gains exclusions and guaranteed rates of return,...

When people are leaving their employer, one of the decisions they need to make is what to do with their 401(k). A retirement plan participant typically has four options (and may engage in a combination of these options), each choice...

But take a look at your investment policy statement before you do anything... How this January 2022 market turbulence affects you depends upon how old you are. For people in or near retirement, it is scary – yet there are ways to...

As we approach the end of 2021, now might be a good time to take a closer look at a few developments surrounding required minimum distributions (RMDs). What Are RMDs? Once you reach age 72, you are required to take minimum...

Today, many people find themselves bombarded by a constant stream of financial news from television, radio, and the Internet. Yet, does all this “information age” data really help you manage your finances any better now...

November is a month to celebrate the sacrifice that many caregivers make to take care of loved ones during the most challenging periods of their lives. Being a caregiver sometimes leads to stress, over-exhaustion, and burn-out. So, for...

You probably spend more time planning your holiday gathering than preparing for your golden years. As a result, you make basic mistakes in trying to fund your retirement. Here are a few of the top mistakes people make to screw up this...

Every Veteran is unique and requires personalized financial advice According to the most recent data from the U.S. Census, there are over 17 million Veterans in the United States and more than nine million of these Veterans are served...

The Budget and the Debt Ceiling: Federal Spending in the Crosshairs On September 30, 2021, Congress averted a potential federal government shutdown by passing a continuing resolution to provide funding for government operations through...

October is National Financial Planning Month Tips to help you find a financial professional and financial planning firm The financial professional and financial planning firm you pick to manage your assets and advise you on key...

New Bill Aims to Solve for the Retirement Plan Coverage Gap One in four Americans does not have any retirement savings. This situation may be due at least partly to not having access to an employer-sponsored retirement account.1 The...

When to Call Me Times to call your financial advisor Most of us go to see professionals when we’re in trouble or during times of crisis. Think about it. We go to the doctor when we’re sick. We go see a lawyer when we have a...