Blog

The Sandwich Generation and Retirement: Overcoming the Dual-Caregiving Dilemma

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Monday, July 1, 2024

The "Sandwich Generation" is composed of adults who are ‘sandwiched’ between competing financial responsibilities. Many Sandwich Gen members support their aging parents while also providing for their children (or even grandchildren)...

Three Types of Insurance You Need Even on a Budget

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Tuesday, June 25, 2024

Here are three types of insurance that are critical to have, even on a shoestring budget.

Retirement Planning: The Ultimate Endless Summer Adventure

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Tuesday, June 18, 2024

Here are some tips and tricks to help manage your retirement to have the goal of being carefree and relaxing as a child's summer vacation.

Tips for Navigating Inflation as a Small Business Owner

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Thursday, May 23, 2024

So, how do small business owners weather the storm of inflation? Here are a few tips to help you get through it.

Military Benefits for Former Service Members, Veterans, and Families

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Tuesday, May 21, 2024

Just because your military service is up doesn’t mean your benefits disappear. You spent many years of your life serving and protecting your country. With that sacrifice, you can access various benefits created to help you readjust to...

3 Tips to Ensure You're in Good Financial Health for Retirement

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Tuesday, May 7, 2024

Achieving financial wellness requires careful planning, smart decision-making, and consistent efforts toward improvement. Below, we discuss three tips to help you gain and maintain top financial health in retirement.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Life Insurance Policy for Your Retirement Years

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Wednesday, May 1, 2024

It is essential you select a life insurance policy that could benefit you and your family in your retirement years. Here are a few options to review with your financial professional.

Social Security Isn’t Enough: How Social Security Fits into a Well-Rounded Retirement Plan

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Monday, April 22, 2024

If you're nearing retirement age, you know the Social Security process and how much you will likely receive. With that information, you may have also anticipated that your Social Security benefit would not be enough to sustain you.

It’s Not Too Late to Become Financially Literate

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Monday, April 8, 2024

If you are approaching retirement and want to improve your financial literacy, below are a few simple ways to get started.

Wealth, Success, and Mental Health: Finding the Balance Between Wealthy and Healthy

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Monday, April 1, 2024

April marks Stress Awareness Month, which provides a great opportunity to shed light on a topic often overlooked in the world of high-net-worth investors, which is mental health.

The average American worker will change jobs more than once in their lifetime. While there are multiple options such as leaving your 401(k) in your former plan if allowed, cashing out the account balance, or transferring the 401(k),...

In an unexpected turn of events, the IRS announced another delay in the implementation of the new reporting rule that would require third-party payment apps, for example, Zelle, PayPal, Cash App, or Venmo, to report earned income over...

Regardless of the stage of life, your credit score is an essential component of your financial health when you're in retirement. A consistently strong credit score can pave the way for greater confidence, easy loan access, and lower...

As you approach retirement, you're probably envisioning a future of leisure, adventure, and well-deserved relaxation. But just as you plan your wardrobe for different seasons, organizing your financial closet is crucial to help manage...

The newest generation of upcoming retirees is facing a more unique and prominent dilemma than past generations have experienced: caring for family members at the same time they’re preparing for retirement. There are plenty of...

When filing your income taxes, each taxpayer is different. Some prefer reducing the taxes they owe and getting the most significant possible refund, while others work to keep the taxes they pay as low as legally required. The IRS...

In the world of investing, risk and reward go hand-in-hand. To help manage risk and reward, investors often utilize a portfolio diversification strategy that mitigates risk while working toward accumulation across asset classes....

Many IRA and retirement plan limits are indexed for inflation each year. Several of these key numbers have increased once again for 2024. How much can you save in an IRA? The maximum amount you can contribute to a traditional IRA or a...

Independence is important in retirement. The more independent retirees are, the more fulfilling their retirement is likely to be. However, living independently as you age isn't always easy and may take some degree of planning well...

Whether you’re 23 or 35, it’s important to know whether you are saving enough for your retirement. There is no time like the present to ensure you are allocating enough funds to your retirement account. With folks routinely...

Tax identity theft is a serious type of fraud that affects individuals of all ages and stages of life. To steal a person's tax identity, a scammer uses that person's Social Security number and other personal and financial information...

It is crucial for individuals to engage in strategic tax planning with their financial professionals, particularly considering the changes to the standard deduction and tax brackets for the year 2024. These modifications, affecting...

Retirement planning has become a puzzle of intricate legislation, and the recent changes brought about by the SECURE 2.0 Act have only added more complexity. While some alterations aim to enhance the retirement landscape, others have...

When it comes to financial bad habits, the most common are also well known — don’t spend too much, don’t take on unsustainable debt, and avoid living paycheck to paycheck. But what happens once you’ve...

When it comes to your estate plan, you don’t just have it drafted and put away until it is time for your loved ones to manage your lifetime of affairs. As your world changes year by year, it is critical that you review your...

In the world of investing, the "holiday effect," as it is often referred to, is a phenomenon where stock prices see an increase right before a major holiday. There are many theories on why this may occur. It could be from trading...

LPL Research’s Outlook 2024: A Turning Point provides insight and analysis into next year’s opportunities, challenges, and potential surprises.

For many, retirement is the phase of life to kick back, relax, and enjoy the fruits of years of working and saving. However, financial decisions before and during retirement can significantly influence our quality of life and tax...

As the end of the year approaches, investors need to focus on tax-related considerations, particularly regarding capital gains. Year-end tax planning can help investors manage their overall tax liability while seeking to manage...

A 401(k) plan is one of the most popular and effective techniques for saving for your retirement. A company will automatically withdraw and contribute money from each paycheck to your 401(k) plan. Some employers will even match a...

Although achieving your financial goals is more challenging than following a step-by-step recipe, a few common ingredients and preparation methods may help improve your ability to manage financial resources. Here is one recipe for a...

Aging is inevitable, but how we age is, to a significant degree, within our control. For adults between the ages of 35 and 55, contemplating the years leaading up to retirement offers a unique opportunity. It's a chance to not only plan...

Kitty O’Neill Collings, an American politician and pioneer in the area of international diplomacy, civil liberties, and social justice, once quipped, “Aging seems to be the only available way to live a long life.”...

More than half of Americans don't have a will, even though most agree that wills are a good idea. For caregivers, planning ahead for their unexpected death is even more critical since the people who depend on their services will likely...

As professionals, managing our own finances can be a challenge. However, one area that we often overlook, yet is vitally important, is understanding and navigating our aging parents' finances. As they move into retirement and beyond,...

You may sometimes hear the terms "estate planning" and "asset protection" used interchangeably. They actually have different meanings, and it's important to incorporate both strategies into future financial plans. Below, we discuss key...

Growing old is simply one thing you can’t avoid. The goal is to enjoy your retirement years as you imagined after a lifetime of working. One aspect of growing old that young people may overlook is long-term care insurance and how...

Now is an excellent time to start evaluating your current financial situation, determining your future goals and expectations, and working toward pursuing them. If you need help pulling together a plan for your finances, a financial...

As the global economy grapples with uncertainty, investors' perceptions of a financial crisis diverge significantly along generational lines. While older generations, particularly Gen X and Baby Boomers, lean towards pessimistic views...

Having a solid life insurance policy in place is crucial for any adult who has assets, a business, or a steady income. While most adults know that having a life insurance policy is a vital piece in their financial puzzle, there are...

Medicare policies are the health insurance benefits you have worked toward throughout your life, and having the proper policy is critical as you are likely to face more health problems as you age. While these policies can provide you...

Planning for your financial future and retirement looks much different now than in previous years. Some people must supplement their Social Security to have enough to maintain their desired lifestyle. This means financial planning is...

In the U.S., women control a third of household assets. But by 2030, U.S. women are expected to control much of the assets that the baby boomer generation will pass to heirs, roughly 30 trillion in assets. High-earning women have...

Nearly 56 million American adults are 65 or older, and the demand for community living and estate planning services may increase over the next few decades.1 Do you know what arrangements you need to make when the time comes? What are...

Do you consider yourself a high-net-worth individual (HNWI)? Most people tend not to categorize themselves or see themselves as anything more than a spouse, parent, sibling, neighbor, boss, or business owner. However, society does...

Do you know the answer if your financial professional asks you what type of investor you are? While it may be challenging to classify yourself off the top of your head, knowing what type of investor you are might help you avoid making...

Over the past year, the global economy has faced a series of rolling recessions – periods of economic decline that impact specific sectors or regions without bringing down the entire economy. This phenomenon, although concerning,...

The sandwich generation is a term commonly used to describe those between the ages of 40 and 59 who are responsible for raising their family and are also often helping their aging parents manage their ongoing needs. Those members of...

Those who receive an inheritance with the passing of a loved one are potentially given the gift of financial freedom if they choose to manage the wealth carefully. Did you know that only about one-third of adults have a prepared will,...

The insights in LPL Research’s Midyear Outlook 2023: The Path Toward Stability will help position investors, along with guidance from their financial professional, to achieve their goals by providing guidance and actionable insights as the

As we approach summer, there has been a fair share of speculation and concerns about an impending global recession. And concerns over a potential global recession have intensified as bankruptcies surge and many economic indicators...

As a retiree, one of the significant financial challenges you may encounter is inflation. The rising costs of goods and services can erode the purchasing power of your retirement savings, making it difficult to maintain your desired...

Right now is a great time to assess your insurance coverage. Insurance is a means of protecting your assets against premature liquidation. When a loss occurs, the assets you've worked hard to attain face liquidation if your insurance...

For kids, teens, and college students, summer break often represents freedom from schedules, responsibilities, and all those other drains on your time. Retirement actually can provide a similar level of freedom, but only if you've...

In 1938, Harvard researchers began a groundbreaking study to answer a timeless question: What makes us happy in life? Over the decades, the study has followed 724 people from diverse backgrounds, collecting health records and asking...

Having enough retirement income is a top concern for many Americans nearing or in retirement. Even though they may have saved consistently throughout the working years, they may be concerned that their retirement plans will succeed.

Whether you are expecting your first child or have been a parent for years, finances and building a future for your family go hand-in-hand. Luckily, there are money moves you can make now to help manage financial stress, support...

Once you are in your 60s, you are likely to focus less on growing your retirement funds than answering, "When do I retire?" And once you crack open your nest egg, how should you allocate its contents? The answer often lies in...

Life insurance is not only about protecting your survivors in the event of your death. Depending upon the type of policy you purchase, it can also enable you to meet specific life goals: retiring comfortably, paying for your child's...

Mothers are our teachers, starting from the time we are born and lasting throughout our lives. They have a role in teaching us how to be good people, take care of ourselves, and even be a success in the business world. Many small business..

May is #MentalHealthAwareness Month. Are you feeling exhausted? Burnt out? Odds are your mental health bank is dangerously low. Your mental health bank functions in a similar way to your bank account.

Financial literacy is crucial, not only for adults but for everyone in the family. When you have a good foundation of financial literacy, you will have a greater understanding of money and prepare yourself for a brighter financial future.

Money worries may be one of the biggest sources of stress—from wondering how to pay for an unexpected expense to making retirement calculations when considering leaving a job. In the midst of inflation, war, and stock market volatility...

Planning for retirement is exciting, but it may come with a bit of stress. If you worked hard all your life, now might be the time to relax and enjoy the fruits of your labor. One of the things that you may need to consider is when it is...

Getting ready for retirement involves more than just calculating how much you will need and the rate you can draw down your savings. The years before you retire is a crucial time to prepare both financially and psychologically.

The events of the past few days have many people asking questions about the health of the financial services companies they entrust with their money and investments. And to the extent that you may have similar questions, we want to...

Spring can be a fantastic time to refresh your retirement plan and savings habits. With 2023 bringing increased limits for 401(k)s, individual retirement accounts (IRAs), Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), and other tax-advantaged accounts...

As Samuel Goldwyn once said, "The harder I work…the luckier I get!" 1 But when it comes to investing, luck may play a huge role in outcomes—no matter how hard you work.2 Below, we discuss some ways that luck may impact your investing...

With April’s federal tax filing and payment deadline on the horizon, Americans are dotting their i’s and crossing their t’s as they prepare for the countdown to Tax Day. But before you rush to get that return out the door, are you...

Retirement planning may not be your idea of an exciting date night. However, retirement strategies and goals are so varied that couples in committed relationships need to set aside time to discuss plans for when they leave the...

The Super Bowl is more than just a game. It's an American holiday. As you prepare for this fun day, you may also want to think about how to create "big wins'' in your investment strategy. Get ready for Super Bowl Sunday by checking out...

It’s easy to carry the stress of home to work, and work to home. Doing so will most likely inhibit your time to relax with friends, family, and your productivity in the work place. Budget your time accordingly for each aspect of...

When you think of identity theft, you may think of unauthorized credit card payments or new lines of credit. However, tax identity theft is one of the most common types of identity theft — and it’s also the most common...

Getting married is a joyous time, but one that comes with numerous considerations. From living arrangements to future goals, marriage may quickly change a lot of things in your life. One thing that may drastically change after your...

Change may be difficult, especially when you try to change your financial habits. The process might be easier if you take an incremental approach. Do you want to get on top of your finances this year? Are you looking for ways to...

As an investor, you may be impacted by capital gains if you sell your investment – whether at a gain or loss. Understanding capital gains may help with your overall investment strategy and the potential to preserve your wealth....

For many people, a new year provides a new start—and nothing says "new start" like a fresh new set of financial goals. But setting these goals is easier said than done. What steps should you take to get the most bang for your...

If one of your New Year's resolutions involves enhancing and expanding your investment portfolio, look no further. In a true New Year's Eve countdown tradition, ask yourself these 10 questions to help review your investment plans.

Just as every snowflake is unique, so is every person's retirement plan. Though there are some general strategies that can be helpful they don't apply equally to everyone. Here we discuss a few broad rules that can help you forge your own..

With the projected modification of the current legislation, 2023 looks like a year to potentially benefit those interested in creating a wealth transfer planning strategy through generational giving. There are several ways to pass wealth be

LPL Research’s Outlook 2023: Finding Balance is our guide to how the readjustments in the economy and markets may impact you in the coming year

The end of the year is a great time to review your trust document, update information, buy or sell assets or even cancel your trust if you choose. Here is a checklist to help you complete your trust and year-end planning

Because taxes lower the actual return on your investments, you should be interested in legitimate ways to minimize taxes on your investment portfolio. Several approaches and strategies exist, including the following.

While Black Friday and Cyber Monday center on consumer deals, Giving Tuesday—the Tuesday after Thanksgiving—has a different focus. Each year, individuals and corporations are encouraged to use the day to support charities...

Black Friday is sometimes the largest shopping holiday of the entire year. Millions of people typically shop in stores or online on Black Friday to score the top deals on must-have holiday gifts. While it may be easy to become...

As we approach the end of the year, you may want to review areas that may impact your wealth and estate planning next year. In this year-end planning guide, we examine four critical areas to consider that may affect your finances.

If you hope to retire soon and are concerned about what the future may hold for your investments, you are not alone. Inflation has many retirees and soon-to-be retirees worried about outliving their savings and investments.

The vast majority of Americans need long-term care. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 70% of people over age 65 may need some long-term care during their lives.1 Unfortunately, planning for long-term care...

As you get older and closer to retirement, your financial practices need to shift slightly as you transition from working and saving to relying on your nest egg. As you approach this stage of your life, you need to take steps to...

The cost of long-term care can vary widely based on location (both city and state) and level of care needed. However, one thing is for certain: with 7 in every 10 people requiring long-term care at some point, preparing for this...

Many Americans realize the importance of saving for retirement, but knowing exactly how much they need to save is another issue altogether. With all the information available about retirement, it is sometimes difficult to decipher what...

Bear markets are painful, but they are also part of the investment process.Bull markets happen. Bear markets happen. Just stick to your financial plan, and stay calm and disciplined.

With the average price for private college tuition and fees hitting $43,750 for the 2021-2022 school year and public college attendees paying more than $28,000 per year, many parents are nervously anticipating what will happen after...

As you near age 65, you may start to think about Medicare. How do you sort through your coverage options? When (and how) do you enroll? And what if you have other health insurance? Here is some information to help you when it's time to...

You're about to receive a distribution from your 401(k) plan, and you're considering a rollover to a traditional IRA. While these transactions are normally straightforward and trouble-free, there are some pitfalls you'll want to avoid...

You may already be aware of the importance of having enough life insurance coverage to handle financial matters that could affect your family in the event of your death. However, determining the appropriate amount of coverage for your...

Have you ever made a purchase that has thrown your monthly budget off-kilter? Or maybe you’ve put financial restrictions on yourself that push you away from spending on things that bring you joy.

One silver lining in the current bear market is that this could be a good time to convert assets from a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA. Converted assets are subject to federal income tax in the year of conversion, which might be a...

In 2022, U.S. inflation hit a 40-year high, with prices for food, housing, gasoline, and other key staples increasing by nearly 10% over the previous year.1 During these uncertain times, stocks have continued a roller-coaster ride that...

What might seniors do to get back on track after their retirement plans have gone awry? Here are four steps that might help you respond to some retirement setbacks.

Economies and markets are cyclical. They may include periods of wealth creation and times of bursting bubbles that bankrupt companies in a major downturn."Boom and bust" cycles may last anywhere from a few months to a few years or...

Investing involves setting goals for the future and weighing the risks and potential rewards associated with a wide variety of investment opportunities. If you are a new investor, this might seem like an overwhelming task.

Many parents may feel it is unnecessary to inform their adult children about their personal, financial affairs. However, as your children grow older, it can work to your advantage—and that of your entire family— to share...

Markets rarely give us clear skies, and there are always threats to watch for on the horizon, but the right preparation, context, and support can help us navigate anything that may lie ahead.

Though baseball and stock market investing may not seem to have much in common, there are a few key similarities—both are stats-driven and require focus, a relative lack of emotion, and a clear mind. And when it comes to...

When it comes to investing, having fewer investments might help streamline your portfolio to manage stress better. Here are some benefits of a simple portfolio and some ways to help you create one.The Benefits of SimplicityUnless you...

Financial Independence / Retire Early – Is it suitable for you?There has been a lot of chatter about the FIRE movement – Financial Independence / Retire Early – over the last few years and you’re probably...

Whether you make tennis one of your leisure activities during retirement or just enjoy watching the sport, you may not realize that the same strategies used in a tennis match may also translate into retirement. Prepare yourself for...

Summer is here, and it could be time to hit the road on a new adventure. If you’re on a tight budget, you don’t have to give up your summer vacation dreams. Here are a few tips you may be able to use to create the perfect...

Did you know that you can gift a new or existing life insurance policy to your favorite charity? When properly designed, a charitable life insurance program may improve your overall financial situation and offer tax benefits, all while...

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing is on the rise throughout the world. A 2018 study from Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government found that ESG investing now accounts for nearly $30 trillion, which...

Parenthood can be both wonderfully rewarding and frighteningly challenging. Children give gifts only a parent can understand — from sticky-finger hugs to heartfelt pleas to tag along on Saturday morning errands. You raise them...

We all want to gift our loved ones something special for the holidays. But even if your heart says give, your wallet could be saying otherwise. It’s a challenge to know how to divvy up your spending, but if you want to come out...

With the holiday season upon us and the end of the year approaching, we pause to give thanks for our blessings and the people in our lives. It is also a time when charitable giving often comes to mind. The tax benefits associated with...

With the holidays here, now is the time to get into the giving spirit and help to change others' lives for the better. Whether you are looking to make a difference in a specific person's life or the life of many, there are many ways to...

What typical investors need to know We all read and hear about various special deals, “doorbusters,” price cuts, and early opening hours on Black Friday. We also read and hear about the Cyber Monday deals. These sales days...

What do you think of when you hear the words long-term care (LTC)? If you are like most people, the first image that may come to mind is a bedridden, elderly individual who requires constant care, along with various medical treatments...

For some, 2021 has flown by—and as we approach the last quarter of the year, it's a good time to begin planning for the next one. Year-end planning is especially important for retirees and those hoping to retire in 2021 or 2022....

It may be easy to forget we're nearing the end of the year. Even during the busy end of year rush, it's a good time to reevaluate your 2021 finances and turn an eye toward 2022. What can you do now to potentially improve and streamline...

As more and more women assume leadership roles in businesses, it is changing the attitude and sometimes even the future of the workplace. Female bosses may teach business leaders a lot about engaging with employees, promoting their...

No matter where you are in life, you may have at least a few financial goals. Perhaps you want to buy a house, save for your child’s college education, or retire early. Regardless of what your goals are, financial planning can...

3 Financial Planning Steps

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Wednesday, September 29, 2021

Organization, efficiency and discipline can be considered as three primary steps of financial planning. Organization is knowing where your money comes and goes. An efficient portfolio means working towards a better chance of profits,...

Financial Planning Tips for Young Adults

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Wednesday, September 29, 2021

Whether you're still living at home, in school, or starting your career, your late teens and twenties present a prime opportunity to think about your financial future. Though you may not hit your peak earning years until your 40s or...

Labor Day 2021: The Pandemic's Impact

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Tuesday, August 31, 2021

2020 was one of the most disruptive years ever for the U.S. job market, almost as significant as the unemployment during the Great Depression in 1933 and surpassing joblessness during the Great Recession from 2006 to 2008. Many...

Some Key Uses of Life Insurance

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Tuesday, August 31, 2021

Have you ever thought about the important role life insurance can play in helping you manage a variety of important financial objectives? Let’s look at some “slice of life” hypothetical examples and you’ll see...

The Advantages & Disadvantages of 401(k) Loans

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Friday, August 27, 2021

Tapping your tax-advantaged retirement savings seems like a desperate financial move (because it is), yet also a sound one in specific circumstances. Best know what you get into with 401(k) loans in terms of time, payback and risk....

Back to School Checklist

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Sunday, August 15, 2021

It’s so easy to get caught up in the bliss of summer that, before you know it, the new school year is a week away. To avoid being struck with last minute panic, here are a few things to ask yourself before the first day of school...

Four Financial Planning Essentials to Ease Your Retirement Fears

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Friday, August 6, 2021

When it comes to planning for retirement, it's easy to get overwhelmed. Putting together a financial strategy can be complicated at any time of life, what with changing regulations, ups and downs in the market, and disagreements...

Why the inflation rate doesn’t tell the whole story

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Friday, July 16, 2021

Markets, economists and policymakers have been fretting about inflation for months, worried that the trillions of dollars being spent in recent and future government stimulus programs could overheat the economy and send prices soaring....

A Small Business Quiz

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Friday, July 9, 2021

Small businesses are part of the backbone of the U.S. economy, providing jobs, services, products, and stability for millions of families. But how much do you really know about small businesses? Test your knowledge with our...

The Different Stages of Financial Freedom

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Thursday, July 1, 2021

If you're living paycheck-to-paycheck or stuck in a job you don't love just to pay the bills, it can be easy to feel as though you're financially trapped. But financial freedom doesn't need to be elusive—with some focused and...

4 Hot Weather Safety Tips for Pets

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Friday, June 18, 2021

Summertime is great for walking and playing in the sunshine with your pet. Unfortunately, pets have a harder time keeping cool when the temperatures soar. Here are some tips to keep your pet safe, healthy, and happy under the fun sun....

Donor-Advised Funds: A Solution to Gifting with Tax Benefits

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Tuesday, June 15, 2021

Gifting, for many investors, is about the philanthropic support they want to give charities. Gifting to help make the world better by benefitting society is one reason many families choose to donate. The charitable giving tax deduction...

Why is ESG Investing So Appealing?

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Friday, June 11, 2021

For more than 200 years, long before the advent of modern stock markets and electronic trading, some investors have been committed to socially-responsible (SRI) investing.1 This involves choosing companies and products that...

529 Savings Plans: For Education Expenses and Estate Planning?

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Saturday, May 29, 2021

A 529 plan is a state-sponsored tax-advantaged plan designed for saving for future education expenses authorized by Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code. If used for education, the assets grow tax-free. According to the College...

The Relationship Between Treasury Yields and Mortgage Rates

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Wednesday, May 26, 2021

Mortgage rates are still around all-time lows but they may be headed higher. The 30-year national average mortgage rate hit an all-time low of 2.82% back in February, but with the U.S. economic recovery in full swing, mortgage rates...

How Entrepreneurs Can Stay Nimble in the COVID Era

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Wednesday, May 26, 2021

When one door closes, another opens—and entrepreneurs who keep this mantra in mind are more likely to remain on top once the world has moved beyond the novel COVID-19 pandemic. What can business owners and other entrepreneurs do...

Where to Invest with Higher Inflation

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Wednesday, May 19, 2021

Inflation is all the rage after last week’s much hotter than expected inflation numbers. Our base case remains that this period of higher inflation will be transitory, as many of the forces that have kept a lid on inflation over...

10 Tips for Small Business Owners

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Wednesday, May 5, 2021

Small business owners should conduct an annual assessment of their personal finances. Owners of small businesses have much the same concerns as everyone else, except they are personally responsible for the fortunes of their enterprise....

Financial Planning Tips for Teachers

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Tuesday, May 4, 2021

Times are uncertain for everyone right now, but for teachers in particular. Depending on your school district's response to the coronavirus, you may be headed back into the classroom, meeting your students online, or juggling a hybrid...

Tips to Keep Emotions and Investing Separate

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Reducing your emotions can give you a better chance for investing success Money is always an emotional subject, but often when our emotions get involved with our investments we will make wrong decisions. And that can be a costly...

Using SRI and ESG to Balance Investment and Ideals

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

When you invest funds, you are preparing for your retirement and your future. But at the same time, you may also want to consider the impact your money has on the world. Ethical investment strategies seek to balance these two concepts....

The COVID-19 pandemic has rocked markets and reshaped the way we interact with each other. But one unexpected side effect of this pandemic has been investors' acceleration into the entry of environmental, social, and governance (ESG)...

Top 5 Tips for Making Sound Financial Decisions

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Friday, April 16, 2021

Everyone needs to make smart financial decisions that steer them toward financial independence. When people thrive financially, they may feel less financial stress, leading them to accomplish short and long-term financial goals. Here...

Spring Into A Positive Outlook

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Tuesday, April 13, 2021

“The real key to making money in stocks is not to get scared out of them.” Peter Lynch They say April showers bring May flowers. Well, after a lot of showers and storms over the past year, flowers are starting to bloom and...

A Brief History and How to Look at Social Security

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Wednesday, April 7, 2021

Is it about getting the money back or minimizing the risk of bad outcomes? Although Social Security did not come into existence until 1935, it can trace its roots back to the first national pension program for soldiers that was passed...

The History of April Fool’s Day

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Thursday, April 1, 2021

The History of April Fool’s Day Long known as a day for pranks, the April Fool's holiday has a few possible origins[1] and has been celebrated in many countries for centuries. The holiday is typically marked by the delivery of...

Shielding Your Insurance from Estate Taxes

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Tuesday, March 30, 2021

The rules are very stringent, but your financial professional can help navigate Life insurance, which can help to provide for your heirs in the event of your death, can be an important estate planning tool. It can provide funds to...

Key Considerations as You Start Receiving Social Security Benefits

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Tuesday, March 23, 2021

As your retirement draws closer, you will probably start to have lots of questions such as: How much Social Security will I receive? When should I retire? How will I know when to retire? Do I have enough saved? What will I need to do...

A Checklist for Your Retirement Planning

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Thursday, March 18, 2021

Remember, it is never too early to start planning for your future The time to begin planning for your financial future is now. So, when it comes to preparing for retirement, the earlier you start, the better. Here are some steps to...

Tax Identity Theft Awareness - Protecting Yourself From Tax Identity Theft

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Thursday, March 11, 2021

Tax identity theft is when someone steals your Social Security Number, files a tax return with your number, and directs a refund to their own bank account. In other cases, this type of identity theft may involve a scam artist calling...

How to Request a Federal Income Tax Extension

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Tuesday, March 2, 2021

With so many tax provisions tweaked in 2020—from the CARES Act in March to the Consolidated Appropriation Act in December—some taxpayers may find it challenging to get everything together in time to file their taxes by the...

How Financial Asset Management May Help Investors Stay the Course

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Wednesday, February 3, 2021

Most people who decide to purchase stocks, bonds, mutual funds, or other investment vehicles do so understanding that there are risks associated with investing, but believing that the potential growth they may realize over time...

IRA vs. 401(k): What Savers Should Know

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Wednesday, February 3, 2021

As of 2018, about 58 million Americans had a 401(k), while around one-third of households owned an individual retirement account (IRA).1, 2 Yet for as commonplace as these retirement accounts can be, the nuances of contributions are a...

The New IRS Tax Rates and Deductions for

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Wednesday, February 3, 2021

Although a year away, your 2021 tax planning should have already started Amidst all the pandemic news and 2020 election drama, many might have missed that the IRS also quietly published new 2021 tax rates in late October and a there...

The Super Bowl Indicator

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Wednesday, February 3, 2021

Is Brady or Mahomes better for stocks? Of course, we would not suggest investing based on this game, but with the big game around the corner, let’s talk Super Bowl Indicator. Historically, if a team from the AFC wins the Super...

Key Tax Deadlines for 2021

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Thursday, January 28, 2021

While the 2020 tax year saw some significant changes to filing deadlines due to the effects of the global pandemic, the 2021 tax season seems to be set to be on track with normal filing deadlines. With the pandemic still in sight, it...

Positive Trends Send Strong Signals

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Tuesday, January 26, 2021

This week’s Market Signals podcast discusses why positive COVID-19 news, solid small caps performance, high stock valuations, and more positive data trends are sending strong signals for 2021. Watch Market Signals: Positive...

Picking Your Financial Advisor in the New Year

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Thursday, January 21, 2021

Use your best comparison-shopping skills when choosing a financial advisor Many financially successful people are comparison shoppers. If you’re one, you pore over ratings in consumer magazines, read websites for reviews and...

5 Charts on the Democratic Blue Wave

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Friday, January 15, 2021

One of the top questions we’ve received recently has been what a blue wave may mean for investments. After the Democrats won the two Senate runoff elections in Georgia, they will now control the White House and both chambers of...

2020 in 20 Charts

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Thursday, January 7, 2021

Well, we can officially say goodbye to 2020. Although there still will be many challenges in 2021, we do see much better times ahead. Just how amazing was it? “2020 will go down in history as the first year to ever be down 30% at...

New Year's Resolutions to Get Your Finances in Order

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Tuesday, January 5, 2021

New Year's is traditionally the time to review your life and make resolutions for change. In addition to thinking about working out, eating healthy, and meeting personal and professional goals, you should also think about your...

COVID-19 Stimulus, Round Two: What Should You Know?

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Monday, January 4, 2021

After months of intense debate, the House and Senate voted to pass a second COVID-19 economic stimulus bill and the President has signed it into law.1 At a total cost of $900 billion, this 5,600-page bill[1] contains everything from...

End of Year (EOY) Deadlines Checklist

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Tuesday, December 22, 2020

2020 has been one of the most unprecedented years in recent history, but some things—like tax contributions and retirement deadlines—don't change much, if at all. And with the uncertainty surrounding just about everything,...

Outlook 2021: The Bull Market in Stocks Continues

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Wednesday, December 9, 2020

Tuesday, we released our 2021 market views in Outlook 2021: Powering Forward. We are extremely proud of this report and we can’t wait to hear your feedback! As we explain in Outlook 2021, we anticipate a strong earnings rebound...

Outlook 2021: Powering Forward

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Tuesday, December 8, 2020

It’s hard to look ahead to the next year, to 2021, without looking back at 2020. A global pandemic, a massive economic collapse, a bear market, a surprisingly sharp reversal, a hotly contested election where passions ran high,...

Smart Shopping During The Holiday

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Tuesday, December 1, 2020

The holiday season is just a short time away, which means the shopping season is about to be in full swing. Shopping for holiday gifts is stressful but also a little fun, especially when you think about the joy you will bring to those...

The Origins of Thanksgiving

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Wednesday, November 25, 2020

Thanksgiving is one of the most widely celebrated holidays in both the U.S. and Canada with the purpose of celebrating the blessings of the past year. It is known as one of the busiest travel holidays of the year and in the U.S is most...

IRS Makes Annual Inflation Adjustments for 2021

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Thursday, November 19, 2020

Adjustments for deductions, tax rate schedules and 60 other tax provisions. The Internal Revenue Service announced annual inflation adjustments for the 2021 tax year for more than 60 tax provisions, including standard deductions and...

What Tax Harvesting Is and Why You Should Care About It?

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Thursday, November 19, 2020

One way to help boost returns without incurring any extra risk is called tax harvesting, which sounds a lot more difficult than it truly is. Simply put, it is the sale of securities at a loss in an effort to offset the capital gains...

Prepare for Long-Term Care Before the Need

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Tuesday, November 17, 2020

Despite the dollars, fears and emotions – you can manage with planning Long-term care (LTC) keeps you functioning in the face of devastating illnesses, disabilities and prolonged disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. LTC...

Appropriate Checklists for Year-End Tax Planning

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Friday, November 13, 2020

What are appropriate checklists for year-end tax planning? Tax planners often develop checklists to guide taxpayers toward year-end strategies that might help reduce taxes. Typically, suggestions are grouped into several different...

End of Year Planning: Set Goals and Reduce Taxes

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Friday, November 6, 2020

By the last third of the calendar year, you're likely to have a pretty good idea of what your annual income will be and whether any major expenses or big life changes await you. This can allow you to engage in more robust tax planning...

2 Post-Election Charts You Need to See

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Thursday, November 5, 2020

The election is over, but the questions are mounting. We don’t know who will be the next president as of Wednesday morning, but we do know that stocks tend to do well the final two months of an election year. “Once the...

The Best Day Of The Year Is This Week

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Wednesday, October 28, 2020

With the election only six days away and earnings season in full swing, stocks have bucked the usual October weakness during election years so far in 2020 (Monday’s losses notwithstanding). The good news is this could continue,...

3 Mistakes to Avoid Before Taking Required Minimum Distributions

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Tuesday, October 27, 2020

Uncle Sam wants your money. He has bills to pay, just like you. And he's been waiting patiently for decades for you to hand over his share of your tax-deferred retirement dollars. He expects some folks to be stubborn about it, so he...

What to Know About Working With a Financial Professional

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Thursday, October 22, 2020

If you've been wondering how to optimize your finances and ensure your money continues to work for you, a financial professional may be able to help. But the thought of turning over your most sensitive financial information to a...

12 Estate Planning Must-Dos

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Thursday, October 15, 2020

Many of you already have estate documents, probably executed many years ago. You need an estate attorney to look over your documents every 10 years or so. Here are a dozen points to review. Do you have a will and powers of attorney for...

The Market’s Mixed Election Signals

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Wednesday, October 14, 2020

With Election Day just under a month away and voting already taking place in many states, it is still anyone’s guess who will win on November 3. With all of the noise surrounding the election, we prefer to focus on the signals...

When Should You Collect Social Security?

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Friday, October 9, 2020

A growing number of Americans have been forced to delay their planned retirement date due to job and savings losses suffered during the past recession. Postponing retirement not only means working longer but also delaying when you...

September Market Insights

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Wednesday, October 7, 2020

Index Performance View expanded table. View expanded table. View expanded table. US and International Equities The S&P 500 Index gave back some gains in September after a strong five-month run, with most sectors finishing in the red....

COVID-19 Delaying Your Retirement Date?

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Wednesday, September 30, 2020

Recent surveys have indicated that many of us are rethinking our retirement plans because of COVID-19. In fact, one survey from the nonprofit group Life Happens suggests that a whopping 43% of Americans say they plan to postpone and...

Exit Strategies for Business Owners

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Tuesday, September 15, 2020

After years spent launching and growing your business, the day will finally arrive when you can sit back and enjoy the fruits of your labor. But, just as starting your business involved hard work and planning, the process of exiting...

5 Lessons Learned About Rising Rates

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Wednesday, September 9, 2020

While the direction of the 10-year Treasury yield over the last cycle was decidedly lower, as shown in LPL’s Chart of the Day, there were still six extended periods where it rose at least 0.75%, and in two of those it rose almost...

Back to School in a New Way

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Thursday, September 3, 2020

Back to school this year will be different. On the one hand, like other years, it marks the end of summer, the arrival of cooler weather, kids hitting the books again, and Labor Day gatherings. But unlike other years, going back to...

3 Charts To Watch If You Are Bullish

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Wednesday, September 2, 2020

The S&P 500 Index just closed the door on its best August since 1986, making new all-time highs along the way, while also closing up five months in a row. First things first, make no mistake about it; this is a new bull market. That of...

3 Healthy Habits That Improve Longevity

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Friday, August 21, 2020

Healthy habits help people to stave off illness, have more energy, feel better emotionally, and perform better. What some people may not realize is that leading a healthy lifestyle may also significantly improve your longevity. Healthy...

5 Charts To See With Stocks At New Highs

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Thursday, August 20, 2020

“Better late than never.” It took a while, but the S&P 500 Index finally made a new all-time high, coming all the way back from the vicious 34% bear market in less than six months. View enlarged chart. It might bring back...

Physicians, Attorneys, and Accountants: Your Guide to Choosing a Financial Professional

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Tuesday, August 18, 2020

From the financial pressures of running a small practice to the repayment of hefty student loans, these three careers (and the people who pursue them) can have more in common than you may think. Those working in the medical, legal, and...

Positive Territory

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Thursday, August 6, 2020

The battle versus COVID-19 continues. The spread in some of the recent hotspots like California and Florida is slowing, while states in the Northeast and Midwest are now experiencing increases in cases. According to the World Health...

What's the Best Way to Give Money to Children and Grandchildren?

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

There are several ways you might consider gifting money to your loved ones. In 2017, the IRS allows you to give up to $14,000 annually (or $28,000 if you give jointly with your spouse) in cash, investments, and/or property to each of...

Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plans - Pros & Cons of Contributing to These

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Tuesday, July 28, 2020

Non-qualified deferred compensation plans (NQDCs) allow an employee to earn wages compensation, and bonuses in one year while deferring the income tax payment on them to be settled in a later year.1 Pros of Contributing to an NQDC As...

Social Security’s Future Is Safe

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Friday, July 24, 2020

Social Security is the bedrock of Americans’ retirement income security. So you may have been concerned by the news that the federal government needed to dip into the Social Security’s trust fund to pay for the program...

IRS Offers Relief to Retirement Plan Participants

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Tuesday, July 21, 2020

New guidelines for retirement loans and distributions due to COVID-19 On June 19, 2020, the Internal Revenue Service announced new guidelines to help those affected by COVID-19 gain more access to retirement plan distributions and...

Using Trusts to Manage Wealth: What Investors Should Know

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Friday, July 17, 2020

Whether you manage a trust for someone else, are the beneficiary of a trust, or are thinking of creating a trust, you probably have some questions about the "best practices" of trust management. A well-managed trust can help preserve...

Outlook 2020: The Trail to Recovery

Michael Boyer, CFP®

Wednesday, July 15, 2020

AT THE MIDPOINT of 2020, we’re mindful that it’s been an extremely challenging year so far in the United States and around the globe. We’re in the midst of a pandemic that continues to impact all of us, our...