Blog Posts

By Marc C. Shaffer

Life has changed and many have changed their mindset along with it. One major point of change has been careers – what they can offer, what’s important to you and what career it will take to live the life you want. During the pandemic, many people realized the desire for greater flexibility in their life and decided to start their own business. Pandemic entrepreneurs.

By Jessica Searcy Kmetty

There is a confidence “gap” when it comes to women taking charge of their finances, and the lack of confidence and action could leave women vulnerable in many situations.

Over half of American women say they have no idea where to begin when it comes to taking an active role in their financial decision making and only about 20% report feeling prepared to make wise financial decisions.

A wave of empowerment is running through mainstream media these days. Women are preaching to the younger generations to NOT let a partner control the financial decisions, not rely on a partner or parent for money, and to take an active role in the financial management of their family. With increasing lifespans, higher divorce rates and women not marrying as often, more than 80% of women may face being solely responsible for their own financial wellbeing.

By Dena Fischer

When my parents died within four months of each other I was left reeling by the loss, and I also knew there would be a lot to handle. Before they passed, I knew that I would inherit the house we had moved into when I was 15 years old; a lovely ranch with a full basement, next door to a horse farm. In the “country,” but just minutes from grocery stores, banks, post office and restaurants.

It was also full of stuff accumulated over a lifetime and needed a drastic update.

By Jessica Searcy Kmetty

Estate Planning looks different for parents who have a child with special needs.

The Life Plan

For many, Estate Planning involves directing assets to be disbursed in a way that benefits those we leave behind. You might have a simple Will or you might create a Trust to have more flexibility. If you have a child with special needs, your estate plan may be designed to provide for their needs without disqualifying them from government benefits.

Taking care of the formalities are essential, but as a parent, how can you be assured that your child will lead as full and complete a life as possible after you die?

By Marc Shaffer

Congratulations! Your child has received a scholarship and now you’re probably wondering how this will factor into your 529 Plan.