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Fixed income investors have had a rough time over the last few years. Normally a staid asset class, core bonds (as proxied by the Bloomberg Aggregate Bond Index) have seen negative returns over the last two calendar years and could...

You want to retire comfortably when the time comes. You also want to help your child go to college. So how do you juggle the two? The truth is, saving for your retirement and your child's education at the same time can be a challenge....

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...

The Federal Reserve (Fed) often uses the Jackson Hole Symposium to announce tweaks in policy. Other central bank leaders are also worth watching as investors try to perceive where rates will be in the coming months. In this piece, we...

Understanding the special challenges women may face in planning for retirement can help them manage the associated risks.   All investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal, and there can be no assurance that...

Volatility has returned right on queue as U.S. equity markets continue to pull back from overbought levels. The recent jump in interest rates has proven to be too much too fast for stocks to absorb, especially for the heavyweight and...

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...

For kids, teens, and college students, summer break often represents freedom from schedules, responsibilities, and all those other drains on your time. Retirement actually can provide a similar level of freedom, but only if you've...

It’s different this time. The four (or five) most dangerous words in investing. We’ll take the risk and use those words here as we break down the recent decision by credit rating agency Fitch to downgrade U.S. government...

Keep connected, develop good sleep hygiene and get in fiscal shape Aging is a natural process that everyone goes through, but how we age can be significantly influenced by our daily habits. Staying fit and healthy as we grow older is...

Earnings season is mostly behind us with about 85% of S&P 500 companies having reported second quarter results. The high level results aren’t particularly impressive, but if we peel back the onion, the numbers are encouraging....

Why do so many people never obtain the financial independence that they desire? Often it's because they just don't take that first step — getting started. Besides procrastination, other excuses people make are that investing is...

The economy is doing better than expected, and the markets are responding accordingly. In this piece, we discuss some of the factors that cause us to think the Federal Reserve (Fed) hiked for the last time in this cycle as inflation is...

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 first half of the year probably didn’t go the way many fixed income investors had hoped, particularly after the historically awful year last year. It wasn’t a horrible start—more in line with recent...

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...

Earnings season is upon us as some banks and a small handful of other blue chip companies have already reported results for their quarters ending June 30. The results on the surface probably won't offer much to write home about given...

In times of crisis, you don't want to be shaking pennies out of a piggy bank. Having a financial safety net in place can ensure that you're protected when a financial emergency arises. One way to accomplish this is by setting up a cash...

In times of crisis, you don't want to be shaking pennies out of a piggy bank. Having a financial safety net in place can ensure that you're protected when a financial emergency arises. One way to accomplish this is by setting up a cash...

Today, younger adults face a variety of challenges in their pursuit of financial independence. Some of these challenges are similar to those faced by previous generations, while others are unique to the times. Here are five financial...

The long dormant capital markets have recently begun showing signs of interest from institutional investors and deal makers anxious to bring companies to market. While activity remains muted at best, expectations are focused on 2024,...

We know it’s old news at this point, but on June 8, 2023, the S&P 500 entered a new bull market. After such a strong rally off the October lows, this young bull probably needs a breather. A look at the charts suggests this market...

Annuity contracts have fees and expenses, limitations, exclusions, holding periods, termination provisions, and terms for keeping the annuity in force. Most annuities have surrender charges that are assessed if the contract owner...

As the economy is likely downshifting, investors should take heed that the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) current stance is eerily similar to early 2007.  During that time, the Fed held a tightening bias since they believed the...

Five key questions to ask yourself about fixed and variable annuities While fixed annuities are generally considered to be conservative instruments, variable annuities are investments with the growth potential necessary to outpace...

The Federal Reserve (Fed) meets this week where it is largely expected to not raise short term interest rates for the first time in 15 months. However, Fed messaging has been all over the place in recent weeks. While some Fed...

An annuity is a contract between you, the purchaser or owner, and an insurance company, the annuity issuer. In its simplest form, you pay money to an annuity issuer, and the issuer pays out the principal and earnings back to you or to...

Summer is the season of fun and relaxation, but it can also be a time of unexpected expenses. From last-minute vacations to sudden home repairs, these months can often put a strain on your finances. That’s why it’s...

After spending so much of your life saving for retirement, it may be challenging to transition from depositing funds to withdrawing them. You may wonder whether there is any way to maintain your lifestyle and preserve your wealth to...

Many of us grew up in a world where it was customary to be friendly, courteous, and trusting. Unfortunately, assumptions concerning these standards of conduct can sometimes get us into trouble. Con artists offering a variety of...

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...

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. Con artists bank on the...

Investors use various analogies to describe the importance of small businesses in the domestic economy. Some refer to the small business sector as the backbone or the lifeblood of the economy. At this current stage of the cycle, we...

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...

The commercial real estate (CRE) market has recently captured the spotlight after being flagged as the next potential shoe to drop following last month’s banking turmoil. While rising rates have weighed on financing costs and the...

Too much focus is placed on markets, investment returns and stock pricesHow you arrange your financial life is important. But so too is how you live your life. The second part is unfortunately often neglected in financial planning....

First quarter earnings season kicks off this week with some big banks reporting toward the end of the week. In some ways this quarter’s earnings season will probably be déjà vu all over again—earnings declines and...

Easter is one of the most exciting holidays of the year, as it’s not only another opportunity to eat plenty of sweets, but a celebration of the coming spring season and a welcoming of warmer days ahead. Of course, no Easter...

Not too long ago, the world was made up of agrarian societies. Most people lived on, or near, a farm. They grew food themselves or purchased it from a neighbor. This resulted in a diet made up exclusively of what could be found or...

Financial markets and the Federal Reserve are reading from two different playbooks. Who is right? The markets are pricing in several rate cuts by the end of this year, while the Federal Reserve communicated more rate hikes with an...

With so much going on in the world today—from a global pandemic through economic hardship—it comes as no surprise that many people have recently found themselves under heavy financial stress. Whether it is due to the loss...

As a physician, you've devoted a lot of time to educating yourself, building a career, and providing top notch care that enriches your patients lives, and in the midst of all that, it can be easy to overlook your finances. To ensure...

A lot has changed in the past few weeks, both in terms of expectations for interest rates and lost confidence in the health of the banking system as a result of the sharp rise in interest rates that has led to some things...

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 proclaim the week beginning March 7, 1982 as “Women’s History...

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...

The Federal Reserve (Fed) has a history of raising short-term interest rates until something “breaks.” Considering the Fed has raised rates from a near-zero level to 4.75% (upper bound) over the course of only one year, it...

As temperatures warm up, trees begin budding, and the days get longer, you probably throw open your windows and think about spring cleaning your home. As you tackle washing windows, cleaning carpets, and sorting out the garage,...

Last week did not play out how we anticipated. Coming into the week, it was all about Federal Reserve (Fed) Chair Jerome Powell’s congressional testimony and the February jobs report. Instead, we got a shockingly fast collapse of...

This year's National Consumer Protection Week is March 5th through March 11th. It's a time to educate people about their rights as consumers and how to make informed decisions about their money. Whether it's taking a hard look at your...

There are many reasons why people save money. For some, it is so they can enjoy a certain amount of financial confidence and freedom, while others squirrel away money for emergencies or future plans like the down payment for a home,...

You may have envisioned retirement as a second childhood—a time to relax, enjoy yourself, and devote your time to your favorite hobbies. Unfortunately, worry-free retirement is not the reality for some. Challenges from stock...

We often like to fantasize that our heart is the center of our love and feelings, but do you spend enough time focusing on its importance to your physical health?February is American Heart Month, so now is the perfect time to love your...

Strategic financial planning is important for everyone but especially for high-income earners that have their compensation tied directly to the success of the business. Executives and entrepreneurs both rely on accessing their wealth...

It’s easy to carry the stress of home to work, and work to home. Doing so will most likely inhibit your time to relax with friends, family, and your productivity in the work place. Budget your time accordingly for each aspect of...

You may not have to spend much money to celebrate Valentine's Day. Instead, you may show your special someone that you love them with sweet gifts that might be easier on the wallet. Want to spread the love without overspending? Then...

Tax preparation tools and products continue to evolve even more quickly than the federal tax code itself. Which tax prep tools are worth the hype, and which may be passed over? Below we discuss five high-tech tools to help make tax...

With lives full of work and obligations, it’s important to make time for leisure and fun. We become depleted and stressed when we don’t do enough of the activities that bring us joy. If you’re stuck in a rut with your...

Whether you're hoping to retire soon or are just beginning to explore the idea of stepping back from your job, you're probably wondering how to make it happen. Will you have enough money? How will you spend your time? What will you do...

This is How You Really Stick to Your New Year’s Resolutions

Kathy Kueider

Sunday, January 1, 2023

Do you find yourself making resolutions, and then a month in, you already slipped up? New Year’s resolutions seem all well and good when making them, but it’s another thing to actually stick to them throughout the year....

Holiday Recipes

Kathy Kueider

Tuesday, December 13, 2022

Black Forest Sheet CakeRich (but easy to make) chocolate sheet cake topped with loads of sweet cherries, whipped cream, and shaved chocolate.IngredientsChocolate Sheet Cake:2 cups of all-purpose flour1 1/2 cups sugar1/4 teaspoon...

LPL Research's Outlook 2023: Finding Balance

Kathy Kueider

Tuesday, December 6, 2022

Through all the challenges, newfound opportunities, and every high and low we’ve experienced during the last couple of years, it’s no surprise why we might be striving for more balance. Whether it’s about the markets...

Cheers to a New Year of Investing

Kathy Kueider

Thursday, December 1, 2022

For many investors, this year has been a wild ride—with interest rate increases, a crypto implosion, and whipsawing values in the major market indices. It might be tough to catch one's breath and look ahead to next year. But the...

5 Festively Fun Party Games

Kathy Kueider

Thursday, December 1, 2022

The holidays provide the perfect excuse to throw a shindig. Whether you find yourself in the company of friends and family or co-workers, a party just isn’t a party without food, drinks, and of course, games! These festively fun...

Like Ugly Christmas Sweaters, Retirement Planning Is Not ‘One Size Fits All’

Kathy Kueider

Thursday, December 1, 2022

Just as every snowflake is unique, so is every person's retirement plan. Though there are some general strategies that can be helpful—contribute at least 10% of your salary; have at least one year's salary saved for retirement by...

Year-End Donations and #GivingTuesday

Kathy Kueider

Tuesday, November 1, 2022

A list of things to consider as you think about year-end charitable donations With its family traditions and festive celebrations, the holiday season is the most wonderful time of the year. And according to GivingTuesday.org, the...

A Year-End Wealth Planning Guide

Kathy Kueider

Tuesday, November 1, 2022

As we approach the end of the year, you may want to review areas that may impact your wealth and estate planning next year. In this year-end planning guide, we examine four critical areas to consider that may affect your finances:...

Now Might Be a Good Time for a Roth Conversion

Kathy Kueider

Tuesday, November 1, 2022

One silver lining in the current bear market is that this could be a good time to convert assets from a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA. Converted assets are subject to federal income tax in the year of conversion, which might be a...

End of Year (EOY) Deadlines Checklist

Kathy Kueider

Tuesday, November 1, 2022

For many of us, a new year is an opportunity for fresh starts and discovering the best versions of ourselves, but some things—like tax contributions and retirement deadlines—don't change much, if at all. And with that shiny...

Your Fall Maintenance Checklist

Kathy Kueider

Wednesday, October 5, 2022

As the summer draws to a close and the first chilly winds of autumn blow through, it’s time to think through the way you’ll clean up, fix up, and maintain your home for fall. By keeping up with your home’s maintenance...

Your Long Term Care Action Plan: A Step-by-Step Guide

Kathy Kueider

Saturday, October 1, 2022

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...

What is Medicare and What Does it Cover?

Kathy Kueider

Saturday, October 1, 2022

For those approaching the age of 65, Medicare can be confusing, and you might also be wondering how it compares to your current health care coverage. This guide addresses your questions about Medicare and how you might deal with...

Fun Budget-Friendly Fall Activities

Kathy Kueider

Saturday, October 1, 2022

People often talk about spring fever, but what about fall fever?Autumn has a plethora of indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy—but they can be costly. Instead of going shopping for expensive decor or purchasing pricey tickets to...

Treat Yourself to These 5 Retirement Savings Tricks

Kathy Kueider

Saturday, October 1, 2022

Your retirement is the reward after years of hard work and saving. You might dream of traveling, want to invest in a vacation home, or want to take up a new hobby. For an enjoyable retirement, saving is critical. Take charge of your...

6 Great Fall Home Improvement Projects

Kathy Kueider

Thursday, September 1, 2022

The days are growing shorter, the leaves are changing colors, and the temperatures are cooling down—fall is here. The season is perfect for creating memories with your loved ones, but it is also an excellent time to take care of...

Tax Planning Tips: Life Insurance

Kathy Kueider

Thursday, September 1, 2022

Understanding the importance of life insurance is one thing. Understanding the tax rules is quite another. As insurance products have evolved and become more sophisticated, the line separating insurance vehicles from investment...

Aging Gracefully: 6 Healthy Ways to Enjoy Your Retirement

Kathy Kueider

Thursday, September 1, 2022

Retirement is an exciting time. You have worked hard all of your life and now get to take advantage of the fruits of that hard labor. While retirement is the perfect time to tackle to-do lists and all of the things you have always...

5 Tips for Navigating Medicare in Retirement

Kathy Kueider

Thursday, September 1, 2022

One of the main concerns about retirement is health care. As healthcare costs continue to rise, medical bills may quickly derail your retirement plan. The good news is when you turn 65, you will be able to apply for Medicare, which...

Women, Wealth, and Legacy Planning

Kathy Kueider

Monday, August 1, 2022

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...

Five Keys to Investing for Retirement

Kathy Kueider

Monday, August 1, 2022

Because inflation could reduce your purchasing power over time, you'll probably need to contribute more to your retirement plan than you think. What seems like a healthy amount now is likely to feel smaller and smaller over time.All...

3 Tips for Staying Calm While Navigating a Volatile Market

Kathy Kueider

Friday, July 29, 2022

When market volatility takes investors on a wild ride, fear and panic are common responses to this stock market roller coaster. Acknowledging these emotions may be a good first step, but acting upon them could result in impulsive,...

LPL Financial Research Midyear Outlook 2022: Navigating Turbulence

Kathy Kueider

Wednesday, July 13, 2022

Markets rarely give us clear skies, and there are always threats to watch for on the horizon, but the right preparation, context, and support can help us navigate anything that may lie ahead. So far, this year hasn’t seen a...

Acquaint Grown Children with Your Financial Affairs

Kathy Kueider

Friday, July 1, 2022

Many parents may feel it is unnecessary to inform their adult children about their personal, financial affairs. However, as your children grow older, it can work to your advantage—and that of your entire family— to share...

Wellness in Retirement: The Benefits of Social Wellness for Retirees

Kathy Kueider

Friday, July 1, 2022

Social isolation makes people more susceptible to illness and death.1 While retirement is a time for relaxation and enjoyment from a lifetime of work, it may lead to a lack of purpose if you have depended on work for...

Tips for Women to Help Build Financial Independence

Kathy Kueider

Friday, July 1, 2022

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

Retirement Planning Does Not Stop in Retirement

Kathy Kueider

Friday, July 1, 2022

Five easy pointers to help you plan during all of your retirement years If you’re retired, there’s good news in that you’ll probably live longer and perhaps better than your parents and grandparents did. The bad news:...

No-Churn Peach Ice Cream

Kathy Kueider

Friday, June 24, 2022

If you've wanted to try making ice cream but don't have an ice cream maker, this no-churn ice cream recipe is a great place to start. No-churn ice cream is such a wonderful recipe to have in your back pocket for those hot summer...

Maintaining the Investment You Made in Your Home

Kathy Kueider

Wednesday, June 15, 2022

For many Americans, the home is the single biggest purchase made during their lifetime.[1] As a result, it's important to do everything possible to keep it in good condition. Even moderate or short-term neglect can be dangerous, as...

American Flag Pie

Kathy Kueider

Wednesday, June 1, 2022

Pie is always a favorite at picnics and cookouts, but the usual apple or berry pie is already bound to be on the table. This festive pie is full of cherry and blueberry fillings—and dons a stars-and-stripe pattern—for the...

How to Maintain Your Garden This Summer

Kathy Kueider

Wednesday, June 1, 2022

When we think of gardening, we usually think of springtime. When the days heat up, the soil can become drier and less optimal for plant growth. The good news is, there are many ways to keep your garden thriving during the hottest...

What Homeowners Should Know About Estate Planning

Kathy Kueider

Wednesday, June 1, 2022

If you have always thought estate planning was just for those nearing retirement or already retired, think again. If you own a home, it is important to have a plan in place. Without a will or other arrangements that allow your home to...

12 Things Investors Need to Know about the SECURE Act 2.0

Kathy Kueider

Wednesday, June 1, 2022

In late 2019, SECURE Act was passed as a way to help Americans save more for their retirement. In March 2022, the SECURE Act 2.0 has passed in the U.S. House of Representatives and aims to improve the goals of the original SECURE Act....

A Season of Giving: 5 Different Ways To Give During the Holidays

Kathy Kueider

Wednesday, December 1, 2021

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...

New Year, New Goals: Your Countdown to Financial Health

Kathy Kueider

Wednesday, December 1, 2021

For many people, a new year provides a new start—and nothing says "new start" like a fresh new set of financial goals. But setting these goals is easier said than done. What steps should you take to get the most bang for your...

Your 2021 Year-End Planning Checklist

Kathy Kueider

Wednesday, December 1, 2021

It may be easy to forget we're nearing the end of the year. Even during the busy end of year rush, it's a good time to reevaluate your 2021 finances and turn an eye toward 2022. What can you do now to potentially improve and streamline...

A Holiday Gift-Giving Guide

Kathy Kueider

Wednesday, December 1, 2021

It’s December, and that means it’s crunch time for the gift-buying season. This year, a little thinking outside the box will go a long way toward putting a smile on loved ones’ faces. Whether you’re buying for...

Thanks and Giving: How You Make a Difference on Giving Tuesday

Kathy Kueider

Monday, November 1, 2021

Giving Tuesday is a day to extend the goodwill that the holiday season may bring to help others. With so many in need, the holiday season is a reminder to help those less fortunate. Whether you want to donate your time or contribute...

2021 Year-End Planning for Retirees

Kathy Kueider

Monday, November 1, 2021

For some, 2021 has flown by—and as we approach the last quarter of the year, it's a good time to begin planning for the next one. Year-end planning is especially important for retirees and those hoping to retire in 2021 or 2022....

A Financial Review Can Pay Off at Year End

Kathy Kueider

Monday, November 1, 2021

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...

30 Days of Gratitude

Kathy Kueider

Monday, November 1, 2021

Between the excitement of Thanksgiving’s delicious feast and the hustle and bustle of the impending holiday season, the month of November often goes by in the blink of an eye. However, even just one simple act a day will help you...

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...

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...

It may be better to give than to receive, but it may be even better to give and see your generosity rewarded. Charitable giving can play a valuable role in your financial and tax strategies. A well-planned gift to charity could provide...

More consumers are conducting financial transactions online and may become vulnerable to tracking, hacking, identity theft, phishing scams, and other cyberspace risks. While nothing can guarantee complete safety on the Internet,...

Grant Peace of Mind with a Financial Inventory

Kathy Kueider

Wednesday, September 1, 2021

Suppose, during the middle of the workday, you receive an urgent phone call. It is the local hospital informing you that your elderly, widowed father has been the victim of a serious car accident and lies unconscious in the emergency...

Boomers' Post-Pandemic Retirement Concerns

Kathy Kueider

Wednesday, September 1, 2021

For many who are decades away from leaving the workforce, retirement may seem like an abstract concept. But once you've entered your late fifties—like the youngest Baby Boomers, turning 57 in 2021—retirement may begin to...

Life Insurance: Changing Times, Changing Needs

Kathy Kueider

Wednesday, September 1, 2021

When Judy purchased her life insurance policy 10 years ago, she thought her insurance planning was complete. She assumed that if she paid her premiums on time, she could sit back and not think about life insurance anymore. Judy’s...

529 Plans vs. Other College Savings Options

Kathy Kueider

Friday, August 20, 2021

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. Mutual funds Mutual funds are an option to...

6 Keys to More Successful Investing

Kathy Kueider

Thursday, August 12, 2021

A successful investor maximizes gain and minimizes loss. Though there can be no guarantee that any investment strategy will be successful and all investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal, here are six basic...

What to Know About IRA Investing

Kathy Kueider

Monday, August 9, 2021

Although it's not hard to find doom-and-gloom articles that bemoan many Americans' lack of preparation for retirement, these don't tell the whole story. One in three adults save for retirement outside their 401(k) in a traditional or...

Why Invest?

Kathy Kueider

Monday, August 2, 2021

To accumulate wealth, people may choose to invest their money into various types of investments. Investing creates opportunities that otherwise would be difficult to manage due to the consistency of contributing to the investment....

4 Ways to Celebrate World Nature Conservation Day

Kathy Kueider

Wednesday, July 28, 2021

World Nature Conservation day is fast approaching. July 28th is a day when we acknowledge the importance of conservation to ensure a stronger future for the next generations. So how do you do your part and mark the occasion? By finding...

Travel Tips That Save

Kathy Kueider

Tuesday, July 20, 2021

Americans seem to be traveling more than ever before and are doing so by either flying the friendly skies or sailing the seven seas. While more of us may be flying high or traveling the high seas, most of us would like to avoid the...

LPL's Mid-Year Outlook 2021: Picking Up Speed

Kathy Kueider

Tuesday, July 13, 2021

Introduction: Picking Up Speed In the first half of 2021, the U.S. economy powered forward faster than nearly anyone had expected. As we were writing our Outlook for 2021 in late 2020, our economic views were significantly more...

When's the Right Time to Retire?

Kathy Kueider

Wednesday, July 7, 2021

Retirement is inevitable, but knowing exactly when to do so is often unclear. No matter when you actually begin your retirement, you’ll benefit from planning your post-work life as early as possible. According to Gallup, the...

The Different Stages of Financial Freedom

Kathy Kueider

Thursday, July 1, 2021

If you're living paycheck-to-paycheck or stuck in a job you don't love just to pay the bills, it can be easy to feel as though you're financially trapped. But financial freedom doesn't need to be elusive—with some focused and...

The Perfect Summer Treats

Kathy Kueider

Friday, June 25, 2021

The Perfect Summer Treats Summer is here and with it comes long, hot days! Here are some of our favorite treats to share in the summer time with friends and family: Buttermilk Peach Pops ¾ cup of whole buttermilk ½ cup of...

Fourth of July Safety Tips

Kathy Kueider

Thursday, June 24, 2021

From firework displays to backyard barbecues, your Fourth of July weekend is jam-packed. However, understanding important safety tips ahead of the time can help you and your family enjoy the holiday. Fireworks Never allow small...

Dad’s Day Out: Must-Visit Destinations for Father’s Day

Kathy Kueider

Monday, June 14, 2021

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...

Five Factors that Impact Your Retirement

Kathy Kueider

Wednesday, June 2, 2021

Retirement can be a risky business if you don’t consider all the factors that can impact your retirement during your planning process. Although it’s hard to know what will happen in the future to you or your investments,...

What Should Grandparents Know About 529 Savings Accounts?

Kathy Kueider

Friday, May 28, 2021

Grandparents can often find themselves in a better financial position to save for their grandchildren's education than their own children are. The parents of prospective students may still be contending with competing priorities like...

Lifestyle Tips & Tricks for Health & Fitness in Your Later Years

Kathy Kueider

Wednesday, May 26, 2021

Staying healthy and fit is crucial at every stage of your life. As you get older, the impact of wellness often becomes clearer, but it can also become more difficult to maintain. With age, factors ranging from time conflicts through...

Plant A Garden. It’ll Grow On You

Kathy Kueider

Wednesday, May 19, 2021

Ahh, summer. Long hot days, are just perfect for vegetable growing. I don't know about you, but for me, summer begins with the smell of tomato plants, there is just something about the aroma that ushers in the season. Working in the...

How to Stay Committed to Your Financial Goals

Kathy Kueider

Wednesday, May 12, 2021

Setting healthy financial goals is critical. Even more important is staying committed to those financial goals. Keeping yourself committed to your goals may be difficult, especially when times may be financially tough. But by staying...

Life Insurance at Various Life Stages

Kathy Kueider

Friday, April 30, 2021

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...

Retirement Planning: To Roth or Not To Roth?

Kathy Kueider

Monday, April 26, 2021

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...

Key Benefits of a Financial Professional

Kathy Kueider

Friday, April 9, 2021

Whether you've been wondering about boosting your investments' rates of return or are concerned that your financial affairs are a bit too complicated for your next of kin to handle, it may be time to seek advice from a financial...

Key Considerations as You Start Receiving Social Security Benefits

Kathy Kueider

Friday, April 9, 2021

As your retirement draws closer, you will probably start to have lots of questions such as: How much Social Security will I receive? When should I retire? How will I know when to retire? Do I have enough saved? What will I need to do...

4 Tips For a Healthier Financial Outlook

Kathy Kueider

Tuesday, April 6, 2021

With Public Health Week on the way,[1] it is not only time to consider your physical and mental health but also your financial health. When your financial outlook is healthier, you will be less stressed and enjoy what all your hard...

How to Increase Your Financial Literacy

Kathy Kueider

Friday, April 2, 2021

Unlike verbal literacy, financial literacy isn't often taught in schools—which means that many people may enter adulthood without having all the tools they need to make informed and effective financial decisions.[1] Fortunately,...

Tips for Women to Help Build Financial Independence

Kathy Kueider

Monday, March 22, 2021

Traditionally, women have been the caretakers of both the older and younger generations of their families. But providing care for family members is becoming increasingly difficult, as doing so may require a leave of absence from work...

Things to do After You Retire

Kathy Kueider

Monday, March 15, 2021

The moment you have been working for your whole life is about to arrive: retirement. This stage of your life will likely offer more free time than you have ever had before. In fact, if you are like a lot of people, you may be wondering...

Retirement Income Planning

Kathy Kueider

Wednesday, March 10, 2021

For investors approaching retirement, it is important to begin thinking about retirement income planning. This involves a mindset shift from accumulating an investment portfolio designed for growth to creating a portfolio of retirement...

How Financial Asset Management May Help Investors Stay the Course

Kathy Kueider

Monday, March 1, 2021

Most people who decide to purchase stocks, bonds, mutual funds, or other investment vehicles do so understanding that there are risks associated with investing, but believing that the potential growth they may realize over time...

Tips for Tax Preparation

Kathy Kueider

Wednesday, February 24, 2021

In 2020, the government gave taxpayers an automatic six-month extension due to the coronavirus. Individuals who were affected by the damaging wildfires were also given additional time to meet most tax deadlines. However, in 2021, the...

Common Retirement Investment Mistakes

Kathy Kueider

Wednesday, February 10, 2021

Only one-in-four Americans (27%) feel very confident that they will have enough money to live comfortably when they retire, according to the 2020 Retirement Confidence Survey Summary Report.⁠11 While the number is up slightly from the...

Key Tax Deadlines for 2021

Kathy Kueider

Monday, February 1, 2021

While the 2020 tax year saw some significant changes to filing deadlines due to the effects of the global pandemic, the 2021 tax season seems to be set to be on track with normal filing deadlines. With the pandemic still in sight, it...

Tax Identity Theft Awareness - Protecting Yourself from Tax Identity Theft

Kathy Kueider

Monday, January 25, 2021

Tax identity theft is when someone steals your Social Security Number, files a tax return with your number, and directs a refund to their own bank account. In other cases, this type of identity theft may involve a scam artist calling...

Tips for Organizing Your Financial Documents

Kathy Kueider

Thursday, January 21, 2021

In an increasingly paper-free society, organizing your financial documents can still be a challenge. No matter how simple or complex your financial picture might be, it takes some thought-out organization to keep your tax documents,...

The Importance of Financial Wellness

Kathy Kueider

Wednesday, January 13, 2021

Financial wellness, like physical wellness, isn’t something you should ignore. Instead, it's a critical concept for anyone who wants to be knowledgeable and confident about their finances, and in fact, financial wellness is so...

2020/2021 Tax Season Guide

Kathy Kueider

Thursday, January 7, 2021

To ease some of the burdens of tax season, we’ve created this helpful guide, which contains all the information you may need to easily address tax issues and questions that you might face. It will assist you in becoming familiar...

New Year's Resolutions to Get Your Finances in Order

Kathy Kueider

Tuesday, January 5, 2021

New Year's is traditionally the time to review your life and make resolutions for change. In addition to thinking about working out, eating healthy, and meeting personal and professional goals, you should also think about your finances...

Getting a Jump on January Tax Season

Kathy Kueider

Tuesday, December 22, 2020

From pandemic-related stimulus payments to job losses and furloughs, for many taxpayers, next spring's tax season may be more complex than usual. With the end of 2020 rapidly approaching, you should take some time to review your tax...

Our Favorite Holiday Recipes

Kathy Kueider

Monday, December 14, 2020

This holiday season, we wanted to share some of our favorite recipes to enjoy with friends and family. All of these are very simple and perfect for the holidays to share. Follow our recipes below: Coconut Bonbons 1 cup of softened...

Three Things You'll Wish You'd Known Before Retirement

Kathy Kueider

Monday, December 14, 2020

Retirement is one of the biggest life transitions adults will ever deal with. After 20, 30, or 40 or more years in the workforce, new retirees can find it hard to adjust to the reduced amount of structure in their daily lives. But...

Outlook 2021: Powering Forward

Kathy Kueider

Tuesday, December 8, 2020

More than most years, it’s hard to look ahead to the next year, to 2021, without looking back at 2020. A global pandemic, a massive economic collapse, a bear market, a surprisingly sharp reversal, a hotly contested election...

Tax Benefits of Charitable Planning

Kathy Kueider

Monday, December 7, 2020

When you donate to a charity, you want to know that your donation is going to its highest and best purpose—which means minimizing the tax exposure of the donated assets. One way to accomplish this, whether you're hoping to donate...

3 Tips to Manage Year-End Tax Liability

Kathy Kueider

Thursday, December 3, 2020

With the end of the tax year fast approaching, you may want to find ways to minimize your tax liability. Implementing one or more of the simple strategies discussed below may allow you to hold on to more of your earnings, potentially...

4 Reasons to Do Your Shopping on Small Business Saturday

Kathy Kueider

Monday, November 23, 2020

When Thanksgiving rolls around, the holiday shopping season comes into full swing. While many people prepare their strategy for Black Friday shopping, a lot of them forget about the second shopping holiday that weekend: Small Business...

Year-End Tax Planning

Kathy Kueider

Wednesday, November 18, 2020

As the end of the year approaches, it’s time to consider strategies that could help you reduce your tax bill. But most tax tips, suggestions, and strategies are of little practical help without a good understanding of your...

Revisit Your Investment Strategy at Each Age Milestone

Kathy Kueider

Monday, November 16, 2020

As the saying goes, "50 is the new 40"—and with Americans living longer than ever before, it's not unusual for those in their 50s, 60s, or even 70s to be in their peak earning years.1 But for those who would prefer the option of...

Long-Term Care: Better to be Safe than Sorry

Kathy Kueider

Monday, November 9, 2020

As you enter your “golden years”, perhaps you imagine yourself traveling, visiting grandchildren, or pursuing a favorite hobby. Unfortunately, none of us can predict what the future may bring. But, according to the U.S....

Ready to Retire? How to Know for Sure

Kathy Kueider

Friday, November 6, 2020

Retirement is an exciting time for many, and the reward for years of hard work. While there is no set age for retirement, it is important to be prepared before you make the leap, so that you enjoy your retirement and financial...

End of Year Planning: Set Goals and Reduce Taxes

Kathy Kueider

Wednesday, November 4, 2020

By the last third of the calendar year, you're likely to have a pretty good idea of what your annual income will be and whether any major expenses or big life changes await you. This can allow you to engage in more robust tax planning,...

Identify Your Personal Retirement Goals

Kathy Kueider

Friday, October 30, 2020

Ask yourself, "What will my golden years hold for me?" Is the answer a comfortable home near a golf course? Free time to spend with your grandchildren? Or even a cross-country journey or trip around the world? Whatever your answer may...

Tip: How Much? Check your Social Security earnings and see an estimate of your benefits on the website, www.ssa.gov. Social Security’s been a fact of retirement life ever since it was established in 1935. We all think we know how...