Estate planning for blended families
Blended families are increasingly part of modern life. Second marriages, children from prior relationships, stepchildren, and step-grandchildren create ever-evolving family dynamics. They can also add a layer of complexity to… …
Tax-efficient withdrawal strategies in retirement
You’ve spent decades building your nest egg. Now comes the crucial next step. You have to decide how to draw from it wisely. A well-designed withdrawal strategy can stretch your… …
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… …
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)… …
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,… …
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,… …
Soon-to-be retirees: Transitioning from saver to spender
Retirement is a major financial milestone – the culmination of decades of hard work and diligent saving. If you have spent most of your life focused on accumulating wealth to… …
Savings buckets: Knowing where to put your money
There are plenty of moving pieces to a person’s financial picture, which makes saving for future goals an ever-evolving task. Remember that consistent saving is key to making any financial… …
Heads up retirees: Recent RMD changes to consider as you head into your golden years
It’s been a long time coming. The federal government has made substantial changes to the rules governing retirement account withdrawals, known as RMDs. As Americans are generally living longer and… …