For Mark Roberts' Use: You might think that you know exactly what you’d do with a windfall, such as an inheritance. But you might be surprised at how the emotional impact derails you, especially if the money comes on top of another event (such as a death). To make the most of your sudden wealth, [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: Yes, we’re a few months away from tax season, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t think about it ahead of time. In fact, a little preparation now can help to prevent unpleasant surprises next spring. One quick step can help you understand your current tax situation right now, so that you [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: The do-it-yourself mentality is popular, and for good reason. Often we can save a bit of money, and learn a fun new skill by taking on complicated projects ourselves. But the DIY perspective might not be a good idea to utilize with regard to long-term financial planning. Some things in life [...]
What would you do if someone called to offer you a free healthcare product that sounded as if it might help you? In the event that you experience regular discomfort or pain, you might jump at the opportunity to try something that might bring relief - especially if this person promises to handle all Medicare [...]
Many of our clients now have adult children, and are naturally relieved that their days in the “parenting trenches” are now a distant memory. But that doesn’t mean you stop imparting wisdom to your kids. In fact, now is the time to pass along your wise financial planning advice. With that idea in mind, make [...]
We tend to think of parenthood as an 18-year experience; at the end, the kids leave the nest, we congratulate ourselves for a job well done, and we’re finished teaching and raising them. Right? Well… Not exactly. Just ask anyone whose college graduate has now moved back home, due to high rent or other life [...]
Estate planning forces us to consider some uncomfortable topics, but many people would never dream that they will continue to pay taxes after death! Unfortunately, that’s exactly what happens sometimes (or more correctly, it’s your heirs who will pay the taxes). But because you would prefer to leave your estate to your loved ones, and [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: Financial scams sound like something that only happen to television characters, or the young and inexperienced. Most of us believe we couldn’t possibly become a victim of a con artist, because we’re generally well educated on financial issues. And besides, these things are super rare, right? Unfortunately, no, financial scams are not [...]
When you think of financial planning, you probably focus on your regular expenses, monthly budgeting, and hopefully your retirement plan. But what about when unexpected events, even catastrophes, strike? Many of us don’t have a plan in place for emergencies, or we find that our plans were woefully inadequate. No one can prepare for every [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: While we all hope to manage our debt loads during our lifetimes, it’s normal to pass away still owing money to one or more creditors. It might only be last month’s bills, or it might be a more significant amount like a mortgage. Either way, most of us hope not to [...]