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...
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...
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 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...
By Marc C. Shaffer We tend to think of a financial caregiver coming into the picture when someone like a parent or grandparent starts to decline, mentally, physically or both. However, that might not be the only time you should be considering either planning to bring...
If you’ve ever had to navigate the final affairs of a loved one, you probably have a great understanding of the value of estate planning . Regardless of age, income, or asset level, estate planning can greatly benefit those you leave behind, especially the ones tasked...
Many parents wonder how their own finances will change as their children become independent. Where should you draw the line with your children? What level of involvement and/or support should you maintain with your children? What are some planning points that you, as...
By Marc C. Shaffer
I recently embarked on a journey to purchase a new vehicle, and the new method I tried was a game-changer. Instead of going the traditional dealership route, I utilized a refreshing new approach with Your Car Dog, a car buying agent recommended by a referral partner. The experience was nothing short of wonderful, and I’m eager to share my story.