Fake SMS text messages, known as “Smishing,” attempt to collect personal information. Smishing scams appear to be from trusted companies, government agencies, and charities. Did you know every year, the IRS releases a list of “Dirty Dozen” tax scams? The scams on the...
read moreThis year, even seasoned investors have been feeling at times like they are on a rollercoaster without a safety bar. They may have been wondering if that’s really the case, and if so, how to affix a safety bar or perhaps even switch from this rollercoaster to a tame...
read moreMaking decisions about your retirement account can seem overwhelming, especially if you feel unsure about your knowledge of investments. However, the following basic rules can help you make smarter choices regardless of whether you have some investing experience or...
read moreKnowing how we will and won’t provide notifications or request information from you helps protect your time and money from fraudsters posing as us. Here are a few tips to help you spot a suspicious request for information from an impostor and what you should do to...
read moreFive things to consider when it comes to keeping more of your income. 1. Consider deferring your income to limit your current income tax liability By deferring income to a later year, you can minimize your current income tax liability and invest the money you’d...
read moreThe longer you live, the greater the chances you’ll need some form of long-term care. If you’re concerned about protecting your assets and maintaining your financial independence in your later years, long-term care insurance (LTCI) may be for you. Who...
read moreWhat does a million-dollar 401(k) retirement portfolio mean, and how do you get there? The number one regret many retirees have is not saving more earlier in life, and their biggest worry is running out of money in retirement. These financial anxieties are valid and...
read moreWomen’s History Month reminds us of many reasons to support women’s empowerment year-round. Financial empowerment is key to achieving true influence and independence. Yet, finances is a topic most people avoid discussing. After all, it is so personal and real. People...
read moreLet’s consider the following scenario. You have $7,000 for an IRA contribution. Should you put the money in a traditional IRA or a Roth IRA? With a traditional IRA, you may be able to receive a tax deduction on your contribution, but the distributions will be taxable...
read moreOnline dating is on the rise and scammers are finding new ways to trick those who are looking for love. These con artists are usually looking for someone to send them money after establishing a relationship on a dating site, app, or chat room. If you’re looking for...
read moreTax deferral on retirement savings eventually comes to an end. Those who are 73 and older this year must take Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from their qualified retirement plan accounts (IRAs, 401(k)s, SEP-IRAs, Simple IRAS, and similar retirement plans but...
read moreTake a good look at your surroundings and your daily routine. What’s working, and what isn’t? Here are some ideas for things you can do during January to set yourself up for success this year: Prioritize. Start each day by identifying your 3 most important tasks, and...
read more“If it’s too good to be true, it probably is.” When it comes to banking “hacks” on social media, this phrase should be a guiding principle. Earlier this fall, the internet was inundated with videos claiming to help people get “free money” from their local ATM....
read moreHealth care is an often overlooked aspect of retirement planning, yet it is one of the most financially influential. Some may assume that Medicare will cover all medical costs. The truth is, for most people, healthcare costs not covered by Medicare during retirement...
read moreThe Retirement “Zone” If you’re considering retirement within the next five years or so, you’re in the retirement “zone.” This is a critical time period during which you’ll be faced with a number of important choices, and the...
read moreFraud is an ever-evolving threat, adapting with technology and finding new ways to exploit individuals and organizations. Understanding the latest trends in fraud and knowing how to protect yourself is crucial in this digital age. Here, we explore some of the newest...
read moreSelecting beneficiaries for retirement benefits is different from choosing beneficiaries for other assets such as life insurance. With retirement benefits, you need to know the impact of income tax and estate tax laws in order to select the right beneficiaries....
read moreWhy did you purchase life insurance? Most people buy life insurance to provide a source of income for someone (e.g., a spouse, parent, or child) after they pass. Buying the policy was the first step. Now you’ll need to do a little more work to help the money you...
read moreWhat is Authorized Push Payment(APP) Fraud? Authorized Push Payment Fraud is a type of fraud that occurs when the victim is persuaded – usually through social engineering scams – into transferring money to fraudsters. Typically, the fraudsters will...
read moreEffective cash flow management – knowing how much cash is coming in and going out – is critical for the success of small businesses. With regular forecasting and tight monitoring of expenses, entrepreneurs can ensure that their business has enough cash on hand to meet...
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