Updating beneficiary designations: It’s more important than you think
People often assume their will determines who inherits their assets, but that’s not always the case. Many of your most valuable accounts, such as retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and… …
Should you pay off your mortgage before you retire?
It’s one of the most common questions pre-retirees ask: “Should I pay off my mortgage before I stop working?” There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. For some, being debt-free brings peace of… …
How to create a lasting legacy
When people hear the word legacy, they may think of a financial inheritance – accounts, property, or trusts left behind for loved ones. But the most meaningful legacies are found… …
Top retirement planning priorities for 2026
As 2026 approaches, many retirees are wondering what the new year will bring for their lifestyle, investments, and tax picture. The passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA)… …
How to simplify your finances before the new year
Amid the hustle and bustle of holiday gatherings, travel, and celebrations, your financial life may start to feel a little cluttered. Before the year ends, make sure to set aside… …
Year-end to-do’s: Reviewing beneficiaries, POAs, and Health Care Directives
As you’re preparing for the holidays, it’s perfectly normal to reminisce about what’s changed in the past year: new grandchildren, a home sale, a family move, a shift in health,… …
How to prepare financially for holiday spending
The holidays are a time to celebrate family, generosity, and traditions. Yet for many retirees, this season can quietly strain budgets and create financial anxiety, especially when it’s so easy… …
Smart year-end giving: How to maximize tax benefits with Qualified Charitable Distributions and Donor-Advised Funds
As the calendar year winds down, many retirees feel a desire to make an impact, simplify their finances, and finish the year well. If you’re age 70 ½ or older,… …
Tax-smart charitable giving before year-end
Clients often reflect on what matters most in their lives: family, community, and the legacy they want to leave behind. Charitable giving can be one of the most meaningful ways… …
Why the simplest plan may be the smartest
It’s easy to think that the more complicated your financial strategy is, the more successful you’ll be: multiple accounts, sophisticated funds, advanced tax strategies. You may have been taught that… …