By Marc C. Shaffer In today's higher interest rate environment, it's crucial to review the yield on your bank savings and money market accounts. For example, as of May 2024, the national average rate for regular savings accounts was 0.45%, while many high-yield...
By Marc C. Shaffer As we plan for our financial future, it's crucial to consider the care required of ourselves and our aging loved ones, which means having a plan for housing beyond a personal home, if the need arises. The decision to move into a senior care...
By Marc C. Shaffer As a financial planner, I've always believed in the power of personal connection. Years ago, inspired by Brian Buffini's real estate coaching, I embraced the practice of sending handwritten notes. The impact was immediate and profound - clients,...
As financial planners, one tool we discuss with parents is opening a custodial Roth IRA for their minor children. This strategy could provide significant long-term benefits and teach valuable lessons about saving and investing. Let's explore why this might be a smart...
If you own employer-issued stock in a 401(k) plan, you may benefit from favorable tax treatment under the NUA rules. But, to qualify for an NUA distribution, you must satisfy several very important rules, some of which are often misunderstood. To help make this...
Estate planning is a topic that is commonly ignored. After all, who likes to plan for what happens after they die? Maybe you may have no estate plan in place and don’t know where to start. With this checklist, you will have a better idea of what questions to ask when...
Ever considered writing your own Will? While you can draft a Will on your own, there are plenty of reasons why you may not want to go that route. Most people do it to save money, but they may overlook or forget to take care of some important details – details that...
When was the last time you reviewed your Will or estate strategy? August is National "Make a Will" Month, an excellent annual reminder to update or create your Will. A Will can outline your wishes and help guide the settlement of your estate. Has there been a birth,...
By Marc C. Shaffer In the wake of Mint.com's discontinuation, many users have found a new home for their financial tracking needs with Monarch Money. This powerful tool offers a range of features that make it a worthy successor to Mint and an invaluable asset for...
By Marc C. Shaffer As a financial advisor, I'm always on the lookout for tools that can help our clients protect their assets. Recently, I've been using Carefull, a service that helps guard money, credit, and identity from threats, thieves, and everyday money...
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