Financial Decisions

After finally getting around to updating my life insurance policy since my second daughter was born, and shaming my husband into getting more organized (thank you!), I realized it was time to take a look at my broader estate plan. “Estate plan” sounds so official. Yes, there’s the big, adult-sounding things like an advance directive, will and power of attorney, but it’s also the things we need to access every day, like updated passwords, lists of accounts we use most frequently and how to access them, important contacts and other necessary details and documents organized and shared with the right people.

The advantage of accumulating after-tax assets in a retirement account is that when they are distributed, the amounts will be tax- and penalty-free. However, this benefit is realized only if the necessary steps are taken.

Qualified retirement savings accounts are a great way to build a retirement nest egg. But what happens to the money in the account if the account holder passes away?

Speculators and hedgers are different terms that describe traders and investors. Learn more about the differences here.

Many Americans often look forward to receiving a tax refund. But before splurging on a dinner out or a weekend getaway, consider these steps to put your tax refund to work this year, setting yourself and your family up for long-term financial success.

There are many other important parts of an estate plan that may be forgotten along the way. Here is the "softer side" of estate planning.

Investing in your child's education now could help prepare you for those expenses later by saving in a 529 College Savings Plan.

We are constantly trying to keep up with someone else. But when it comes to saving money, how much should you actually be saving?

When you’re a young adult searching for or working in your first full-time job, retirement is likely a distant thought. However, creating good habits early can significantly affect how and when you are able to retire.

Managing our own money doesn't necessarily top our respective list of things we enjoy doing with our time. But doing so is easier than you might expect. Here are a few simple steps to getting on top of your finance.

Deciding to start a family is one of the most exciting and life-changing decisions a couple can make. All too often, couples get caught up in the rush to decorate and stock up on baby supplies at the expense of prioritizing essential financial planning considerations.

A clear understanding of personal expenditures and savings rates is essential for securing a strong financial future. A financial plan can help everyone from the extraordinarily wealthy to those struggling to make ends meet.

Investing in your employer sponsored retirement plan may provide an opportunity for savings.

As you prepare to welcome a baby into the world, the excitement and anticipation of meeting your child for the first time can be overwhelming.

It’s not surprising that customers who have a financial plan tend to be more satisfied with their financial advisor than those who don’t have a plan

Tempted to spend your tax refund? Instead, consider putting it towards your emergency fund or saving it to pay yourself back in the future.

Have you ever wondered which life decisions brought you to where you are right now – at this very moment? Or, how your life might be different if you made a few decisions differently along the way?

Building a healthier financial life, means striking a balance between living for today, while preparing for tomorrow.

Building a healthier financial life, means striking a balance between living for today, while preparing for tomorrow. 

You think you're ready to buy a new vehicle — perhaps your dream car, truck, or SUV.