A David Letterman-inspired Top 10 List from your financial professional   Make Your Year Matter Well, if you’re like me, you will be thankful to make it through another holiday season, with at least most of your sanity left. For me, the holiday season started well before Thanksgiving and doesn’t really end until about the 5th of January, so it’s a long period of time. But as I see friends I know at the grocery store or at the gas station, the question I’ve heard the most in the past few weeks is, “what are your New Year’s resolutions?” Usually ...

After years of saving and planning for their golden years, many people nearing retirement fail to consider the tax burden they may face on income they receive after they stop working. While you will likely see a reduction in the amount of taxes you owe after the age of 65, you still need to plan ahead if you want to minimize your tax bill from the IRS. Social Security Benefits Depending upon your total income and marital status, a portion of your Social Security benefits may be taxable. For a rough estimate of your potential tax liability, add half of ...

The holidays are nearly upon us – a time of giving, goodwill to others, and embracing traditions. For many people, giving to a charity or organization that aligns with your values provides a sense of fulfillment. If you itemize deductions on your income tax return, you can deduct gifts made to charities. Here are six year-end giving strategies to spread holiday cheer with the additional gift of potential tax benefits.   1.  Making cash gifts If you give cash, you may deduct up to 60% of your adjusted gross income (AGI). Giving cash also provides the charity better flexibility when ...

Whipping winds, deep snow, and icy roadways—all these things may sound like every human’s winter nightmare, but these hazardous conditions can pose a threat to our pets, too. Just like us, certain adjustments need to be made to help our pets adapt to the changing season. Grooming and personal care As you might consider cutting your hair less and applying more lotion to protect against harsh winter air, your pet’s grooming needs change with the weather as well. Trimming or shaving Long-haired dogs should only receive a trim this time of year, as the long coat helps keep them warm. ...