An ESPP stands for Employee Stock Purchase Plan. It’s a program offered by many companies that allows employees to purchase company stock at a discounted price, often through payroll deductions. Employee Stock Purchase Plans could be an important benefit for you. They...
By Brenda Carrico In today’s digital age, the relentless onslaught of clickbait headlines and negative news can be overwhelming. It often feels like we're drowning in a sea of doom and gloom. The good news? There are ways to manage this barrage of negativity and...
By Marc Shaffer Helping a community member when they have an emergency need, being invited to a spontaneous concert or last-minute vacation, or finding an unplanned opportunity to invest. Life is full of surprises and opportunities and while we can’t predict every one...
The latest research suggests that divorce rates in the U.S. have been falling in recent decades. Still, many people face the difficult crossroads that comes when their marriage ends.1 Getting a divorce is often a painful, emotional process. Don’t be in such a hurry to...
In certain cases, you may be eligible to make a Mega Backdoor Roth contribution. This strategy involves using an employer-sponsored 401(k) plan that allows after-tax contributions and then converting those contributions to a Roth IRA or Roth 401(k). Under the right...
Have you heard of the Backdoor Roth Contribution? If you earn too much, per the limits and rules of IRAs, you are unable to make a direct contribution to a Roth IRA. The Backdoor Roth Contribution could be a solution, but there are many factors and rules to consider,...
There are a lot of important considerations to weigh before doing a Roth conversion. As a result of the current market condition and changes due to the SECURE Act, Roth conversions are becoming an important strategy for many. This flowchart covers: Changes in...
It’s that time again. Every four years, investors have to grapple with the volatility and uncertainty that comes with a presidential election. As financial professionals, we field a lot of questions from our clients and friends about how politics and elections affect...
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...
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...