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Retiring from the military is a profound accomplishment. For many, this retirement will provide you with positive things, including the time and geographic stability you need to start a new career or simply enjoy leisure activities...

Which is Appropriate for You? Growing old is simply one thing you can’t avoid. The goal is to enjoy your retirement years as you imagined after a lifetime of working. One aspect of growing old that young people may overlook is...

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,...

A financial consultant is someone without emotional ties who can help you apply the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People to your financial strategy by Stephen Covey.

When it comes to cyber-security, there are simple ways to help protect your personal data. Though most individual people aren’t specifically being watched, software can mine massive troves of data, enhanced by artificial intelligence.

Everyone has a choice to make when they wake up in the morning. Will today be a good day or a bad day? A “good day” all starts with positive thinking. A negative mindset translates into bad thoughts that will adversely...

If you qualify for Medicare, you have likely already heard of Medigap. Medigap insurance is a supplemental policy that private insurance companies sell in conjunction with Medicare Parts A and B to fill in the gaps where Medicare...

Your need for life insurance changes as your life changes. When you're young, you typically have less need for life insurance, but that changes as you take on more responsibility and your family grows. Then, as your responsibilities...

529 plans can be a great way to save for college, but they're not the only way. When you're investing for a major goal like education, it makes sense to be familiar with all of your options.

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...

Even if you are already retired, it doesn't mean you should stop trying to grow your savings. Inflation, unexpected medical bills, and changes to your lifestyle or family may result in the need for additional income than you initially...

Have you ever found yourself scrambling for spare cash to send with your child for school lunch? Have you paid a late fee because you simply forgot when a bill was due? Have you woken up in a cold sweat trying to remember if you paid...

The history of US currency is a complex one, but also interesting. You pay using coins and cash nearly every day, but do you really know the intricacies behind the design of a dollar or nickel? The first paper currency used in the...

One of the challenges of investing during retirement is providing for annual income while balancing that need with other considerations, such as liquidity, how long you need your funds to last, your risk tolerance, and anticipated...

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...

One way to maintain a healthy lifestyle is to take control of portions. The larger the portion, the more calories you are consuming. However, judging portions more accurately doesn’t have to be a difficult task. These serving...

The sandwich generation is a term commonly used to describe those between the ages of 40 and 59 who are responsible for raising their family and are also often helping their aging parents manage their ongoing needs. Those members of...

Summer is the perfect season to get outside and enjoy the sunshine, warm weather, fresh air, and a wide range of outdoor activities. Whether you are the type of person who likes to relax and enjoy sunny days or likes more fast-paced...

You’re not alone if you dig gardening but dread going to the gym, or you’d rather wear your work boots than a pair of running shoes. The good news is you can work on your physical fitness this spring and...

Estate planning is critical for efficiently transferring your money, property, and assets to your beneficiaries after you die. The reason people choose an estate plan is that it avoids probate. One thing to keep in mind about your...

For many homeowners, a lush lawn is a source of pride and a sign of dedication. However, caring for your lawn can take a lot of effort and can also negatively impact the environment. If you struggle to maintain your lawn or are looking...

What is shifting income and tax liability?Income shifting (also known as income splitting) may be defined as dividing income among taxpayers in a way that lowers the overall tax burden imposed on the income. Typically, income is...

Philanthropy today is different than it was in the past. It was once common for donors to distribute their wealth through smaller grants to numerous organizations. Over time, best practices for charitable giving have evolved, and...

Vacations, barbecues, and recreational sports are just a few reasons why summer can be a busy time of year. It’s a good idea to get your home, health, and schedule organized ahead of time so you and your family can enjoy the...

Spring can be a fantastic time to refresh your retirement plan and savings habits. With 2023 bringing increased limits for 401(k)s, individual retirement accounts (IRAs), Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), and other tax-advantaged...

As adults, we’re expected to prepare meals, keep a clean home, nurture friendships, and possibly even take care of other humans, all while working a full-time job. It’s a lot! Meal prepping is one helpful hack that can make...

Are you getting close to retirement and trying to stay on top of any changes to the retirement laws that may impact your goals and strategy? With the Secure Act 2.0 now signed into law, there are numerous retirement-related provisions...

Maintaining a clutter-free home is a simple way of keeping your living spaces as stress-free as possible. After all, if you do the hard work of downsizing and organizing the stuff that you have, you’ll need to actively keep up...

Ah, Money. The word leaves you with a positive or a negative feeling when you hear it. The feeling we get from money, and investing, has deep roots inside our emotions, although we may not understand why. Behavioral science explains...

Planning for retirement is exciting, but it may come with a bit of stress. If you worked hard all your life, now might be the time to relax and enjoy the fruits of your labor. One of the things that you may need to consider is when it...

Part of the joy of making money and building wealth is not solely the aim to live a flexible life of convenience; it is also giving to those we love. Typically when we think of passing down money to loved ones, it is through a will...

Increasing your financial literacy may allow you to make better decisions about your money and your financial future. Many great resources are available to get you started on the path to financial literacy and to expand your current...

There’s nothing quite like a national park vacation—full of idyllic scenery, adventures for any age, and picturesque landscapes that stay with you. Venture to one of these parks this spring for one memorable trip! Joshua...

A 2022 Gallup Poll found that 58% of all adult Americans own stock. The top 1% owns more than half the total amount invested among those who own stock. 1 Making investing possible for your children, nieces, nephews and other loved ones...

Mom-and-pop businesses have held a special place in the hearts of American consumers since the beginning of retail commerce in the USA. These family-owned, small businesses were America’s backbone before larger corporations began...

When it comes to financial management, women face unique challenges over their male counterparts. Less than a quarter of the adult female population feel they received sufficient preparation from their parents concerning financial...

Many workers have been dreaming of retirement since they first entered the workforce. However, once this retirement date draws near, the prospect of giving up your primary source of income may be nerve-wracking, even if you've...

Cardio exercises may seem easier to perfect than a strength move, but seemingly simple activities like going for a run can lead to injuries if done incorrectly. Below are the 7 most common cardio mistakes you may not be aware...

What’s your biggest complaint? Is it that you don’t get to travel as often as you’d like? Maybe you don’t spend as much time with family as you think you should? Is there a home project you can’t seem to...

Identity theft runs rampant during tax season. Here’s what to know and how you can help protect yourself. Identity thieves often swipe your bank or credit card account numbers, birth date information or Social Security Number...

The United States and Canada, on average, consume a combined five billion bottles of wine per year. The US makes up the majority of that figure, leading the world in wine consumption at approximately 4.3 billion bottles per year,...

As an investor, you may be impacted by capital gains if you sell your investment – whether at a gain or loss. Understanding capital gains may help with your overall investment strategy and the potential to preserve your wealth....

Whether you’re just starting your career or are planning to retire this year, it’s never too soon or too late to start preparing for your retirement. What this entails may be different from person to person, but there are a...

We all have things we’d like to see happen in the New Year. Whether it’s an improvement to your health and well-being, a new career you’d like to pursue, or a bad habit you need to break, resolutions are...

Setting goals for a new year can feel overwhelming.  We all know that resolutions don’t last, but we also feel the energy that comes with a new year of possibilities. Here’s a clearer path for setting and reaching your...

If the end of the year has you in planning mode, you’re not alone—starting a new year may be a great opportunity for a review and renewal. What steps might you take for next year?  Review Asset Allocations- Most...

The end of the year is a great time to review your trust document, update information, buy or sell assets or even cancel your trust if you choose. Here is a checklist to help you complete your trust and year-end planning...

Postholiday cleanup tends to be not only a time-consuming endeavor but also a reminder that the most joyous time of year has come and gone. In short, it’s a bummer. But that doesn’t mean it has to send you into a tizzy. There are plenty of

If you struggle to find a gift for the person who has everything—or want to do your holiday shopping without having to leave the house—consider giving stock as a gift. Doing so is easier than you think.

The holiday season means one thing: leftovers. While everyone loves a post-holiday sandwich, leftovers can also put a lot of strain on your refrigerator. Here’s how to keep it organized!

America’s older generations grew up in a different world where it was customary to be courteous and trusting. Unfortunately, these exemplary standards of conduct could get some individuals into trouble.

Sometimes, the simplest things make the most difference. Consider a US soldier, stationed thousands of miles away from home. Even the bare necessities would be welcomed. Check out this handy list for some useful and appreciated items.

As you get older, it’s imperative to take care of your mental and physical health. Both are important to living a long, stress-free life. Additionally, there are foods that keep both your waistline and mind happy.

On an emotional level, owning a pet can decrease depression, stress, and anxiety; from a health perspective, it can lower your blood pressure, strengthen your immune system, and even decrease your risk of heart attack and stroke.

Massive computer hacks and data breaches are now common occurrences — an unfortunate consequence of living in a digital world. Once identity thieves have your information, they can use it to gain access to your bank and...

What is long-term care and why is it important to plan for it in advance? Here are 5 common questions answered about the topic.

Retirement is an exciting time. While retirement is the perfect time to tackle to-do lists and all of the things you have always wanted, you want to make sure you stay on top of your health as well. Here some ways to help you get started.

Physical exercise is a well-known way to improve overall health, but keeping your mind sharp can benefit overall health, too. Exercising your brain takes less effort than you think and can be enjoyable! Try these fun games today.

What does a successful life mean to you? Whether it is as grand as owning a business or as simple as finding a way to balance work and family life, we all want our lives to be a reflection of success.

Fatigue can drag down your motivation and productivity. Instead of boosting your energy with coffee or supplements, it might be time to try a few natural remedies to let your body function at its best.

Committing to living more simply may help you reduce chronic stress and live a more enjoyable life. Of course, that’s easier said than done.

Let’s face it, the fall market gets a bad rap. The majority of buyers assume that they’ll be unable to find a house that fits their needs during the fall—hence the mad rush during the summer.

Protein helps to build skin, bones, cartilage, muscles, and even blood. It aids enzyme and hormone production, provides calories for energy, and repairs tissues. Every cell in our bodies was created and stays intact because of protein.

With September right around the corner, it’s a good time to start thinking about falling back into a routine, if you haven’t already. Implement these tips so you can build a structured schedule for the season ahead.

The pros and cons of buying a home located next to a golf course.

Warm summer temperatures means more time spent outside this season. However, that also means your car is susceptible to the same warm weather. Instead of dreading getting into your hot vehicle, try using these tips...

Mini golf is one of America’s treasured summer activities. It’s suitable for all ages, and some mini golf courses have unique themes that can transport you to a different time, place, or even dimension!

When it comes to health and wellness, many people are stuck in the short term. There are so many fad diets, exercise crazes, and quick-fix supplements out there that it can be difficult to cut through the noise and create a sustainable...

Connecting socially is becoming more and more critical for businesses. Building social relationships is a less expensive way to target prospective clients and an easy way to nurture potential leads toward conversion.

When you think about booking a summer holiday, you might think of trips with partners, friends or family. The idea of going on holiday alone can be daunting, or even unappealing. It raises all kinds of questions.

Every season delivers distinct flavors, and summer flavors are best described through seasonal produce. An abundance of juicy, nutritious fruits and vegetables makes for a delicious and healthy few months.

When it comes to throwing a neighborhood bash, there’s no better time than the summer, but if you’re new to the hosting game, there are a few things to keep in mind before sending out those invitations.

When it comes to shopping for Father’s Day, it can be tricky to avoid the old clichés of a new tie or a seventh (unnecessary) screwdriver for his toolbox. Besides, what if your dad isn’t the businessman or handyman?

While hiking is an excellent form of exercise and should be a highly enjoyable adventure, it’s not an activity to jump into blindly.

Look at any of the most successful people in the world and you’ll find that the one common denominator is how much they stick to their morning routines. Many consider this to be the foundation for a successful and productive day.

Bask in some vitamin D and get a workout in, too! Here are some advantages of going outside for exercise.

Island beaches saved as screensavers and European castle-themed calendars are as close as many people get to vacationing. However, it’s easy to see the positive impact traveling can have on your health.

Road trips are one of the best ways to see as much of the country as you can in a relatively short time. If you’re not sure what piece of America you want to explore first, start with one of these exciting drives!

Here are some of the most cost-effective changes—including many that you can DIY—in order to help you create a smarter, greener home. These are not only good for the planet, but good for your pocketbook too.

Here are some of the most popular myths about Social Security and the facts that debunk them.

If you are looking for something to fill your downtime that may be fulfilling and beneficial to your health and wellbeing, community service may be an option for you.

The gaps in financial knowledge among various sectors of the public—may have racial, gender, and socioeconomic components. Because financial knowledge builds upon itself, families lacking that generational experience may feel left out.

When spring rolls around, your thoughts might turn to organizing your closets or giving your floors a good deep clean. But how much thought have you given to cleaning up your finances?

Applying lessons from the golf course to your financial life and vice versa may help you improve your game in both arenas. Here are three tips that may help you work toward success on and off the golf course.

Researchers found that those with more severe debt may be more likely to have physical and mental health issues. Fortunately, taking steps to improve your financial habits may also benefit your health.

Many people think eating healthy is too costly and won't suit their budget. The good news is, there are many healthy alternatives to junk food that may easily fit into anyone's budget.

Regardless of what path you’re on, creativity will likely play a role in some sense throughout your career journey. Not every day will be a challenge, but sometimes, you can feel like there’s not a creative bone in your...

Even if you're saving money in a 401(k), IRA, or another type of retirement account, you may not be paying much attention to the specific rules and regulations governing these accounts. After all, if you're years away from retirement,...

Your teen is becoming more independent, but still needs plenty of advice from you. With more money to spend and more opportunities to spend it, your teen can easily get into financial trouble. So before money burns a hole in your...

Heading to your first meeting with a new financial professional may be a lot like going on a blind date. Can you have anything in common? Can you click? Can you trust this other person with what's most important to you? A strong...

Are you one of the many American consumers currently asking yourself, “How can I better control my use of credit?” Consumer debt in the United States totals in the billions. Much of this debt belongs to consumers who use...

A huge challenge is planning for your retirement savings to outpace inflation Some of us may remember the “good old days,” when gasoline prices were as low as 25¢ per gallon. Others may recall when a can of soda cost...

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...

When saving for retirement, it often makes sense to contribute to employer-sponsored retirement plans to take advantage of any available employer match opportunities. However, not everyone has access to an employer-sponsored plan. Even...

One of the hardest things to do, by far, is realizing when a want is not a need. Budgeting is a balancing act. The secret to sustaining yourself from day to day while also working towards financial goals is building a budget that...

Have you ever found yourself scrambling for spare cash to send with your child for school lunch? Have you paid a late fee because you simply forgot when a bill was due? Have you woken up in a cold sweat trying to remember if you paid...

Analyzing your past financial decisions is essential to changing behaviors As Charles Dickens tells us in his celebrated Christmas fable, the self-defeating ways we behave financially are rooted in the past. Digging them out is the one...

At the beginning of each year, and regularly after that, it may be a wise idea to take stock of finances and make some changes to help improve your financial life. Here are five resolutions you may make to increase financial...

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...

It’s hard to believe we are already approaching the end of another year, and holiday season will soon be here. Since holiday spending doesn’t include just gifting, it’s essential to set your budget now. You may likely...

Despite the dollars, fears and emotions – you can manage with planning Long-term care (LTC) keeps you functioning in the face of devastating illnesses, disabilities and prolonged disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. LTC...

The largest cost-of-living-adjustment since 1982 impacts 90% of seniors On October 13th, the Social Security Administration announced that Social Security and Supplemental Security Income benefits for tens of millions of Americans will...

Digital property (or digital assets) can be understood as any information about you or created by you that exists in digital form, either online or on an electronic storage device, including the information necessary to access the...

Thoughts on Establishing a Trust and Tips for Avoiding Inheritance Squabbles REASONS TO CONSIDER A TRUST Should you set up a trust? Maybe you've been to a seminar where they scare the life out of you, convincing you to start one....

Spend as much time fixing your mistakes as you do planning the holidays 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...

From the financial pressures of running a small practice to the repayment of hefty student loans, these three careers (and the people who pursue them) can have more in common than you may think. Those working in the medical, legal, and...

If you've been wondering how to optimize your finances and ensure your money continues to work for you, a financial professional may be able to help. But the thought of turning over your most sensitive financial information to a...

Planning personal finances used to be the worry of the wealthy and their worry—usually preservation of wealth—was attended to by teams of trust officers and lawyers. Many of today’s middle class families have...

Personal finance is an important area of knowledge—but it's not always taught in schools. It may be tough to master when you haven't had much guidance prior to adulthood. You may be able to improve your financial literacy and...

We’ve all heard this advice before: if you want to save money, you need to cut back on spending. However, it’s not always so easy. Identifying senseless spending in the following areas can help you save more each month. But...

Graduation is an exciting time for many. But now repaying student loans will start for the new graduates. While some lenders give you a sixth month grace period before you start to repay, starting to pay your loads right away save you...

The golden rule of financial planning: if you can plan it, you can pursue it Over the past July 4th, we celebrated our country’s history of declaring independence and guaranteeing basic human freedoms. But true freedom includes...

If you plan to retire someday, a 401(k) plan may be on your radar. 401(k)s can help you save retirement money to help you enjoy your golden years financially secure. In honor of National 401(k) Day on September 10th, here are some...

Regardless of how the markets may perform, consider making the following part of your investment philosophy: Diversification. The saying “don’t put all your eggs in one basket” has some application to investing. Over...