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# Wealth and Investment Services

Michael G. Sisney

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://417wealth.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [A Business Owner's Guide to Employee Retirement Savings Plans](https://417wealth.com/a-business-owners-guide-to-employee-retirement-savings-plans/) - Business owners hold the key to their employees' well-being, and a critical part of that involves understanding the basics of employee retirement plans. Establishing an effective retirement plan can help prepare employees for financial independence and attract and retain the best talent in the industry. Understanding retirement savings plans A retirement plan refers to a Learn how employee retirement plans like 401(k)s and profit-sharing can attract talent, reduce taxes, and strengthen your business long term.
- [The Importance of a Mid-Year Financial Review](https://417wealth.com/the-importance-of-a-mid-year-financial-review/) - As we reach the halfway mark of the year, it's a prime opportunity to assess your financial planning goals and review your investment portfolio. This mid-year check-in is essential for ensuring that you stay on track to meet your financial objectives. The economic landscape can shift significantly within a few months, affecting various asset classes
- [401(k) Options for Small Business Owners](https://417wealth.com/401k-options-for-small-business-owners/) - Regardless of the business's size, small business owners have 401(k) retirement savings plan options that may be suitable for their situation. Business owners must plan for retirement by utilizing retirement savings vehicles that may provide them with common IRS tax savings incentives when funding specific 401(k) options. A business owner can open several retirement savings
- [Social Security Simplified: Common Questions and Answers](https://417wealth.com/social-security-simplified-common-questions-and-answers/) - Get clear answers to the most common Social Security questions from eligibility and payments to taxes and timing to help you plan confidently in Springfield, MO
- [Benefits of Early Tax Planning with a Financial Professional](https://417wealth.com/benefits-of-early-tax-planning-with-a-financial-professional/) - Discover why early tax planning with a financial professional can help save money, give confidence, and improve your financial strategy.
- [Get the Most Out of Your Retirement Planning and Tax Strategies](https://417wealth.com/get-the-most-out-of-your-retirement-planning-and-tax-strategies/) - Discover how to align retirement investments and tax strategies to maximize wealth and minimize liabilities.
- [Smart Investment Strategies for Wealthy Retirees](https://417wealth.com/smart-investment-strategies-for-wealthy-retirees/) - Wealth and Investment Services Learn smart investment strategies to help wealthy retirees preserve capital, generate income, and manage their portfolios.
- [Market Outlook 2026: The Policy Engine](https://417wealth.com/market-outlook-2026-the-policy-engine/)
- [The Best Kind of Medicine–A Furry Companion](https://417wealth.com/the-best-kind-of-medicine-a-furry-companion/) - If you are or have ever been a pet owner, I probably don’t need to explain the joy of having a furry (or not so furry) friend around the house, but maybe you didn’t know all the actual health benefits they can provide. For those of you who are hesitant to take on that kind
- [Enduring Market Volatility With a Financial Plan](https://417wealth.com/enduring-market-volatility-with-a-financial-plan-2/) - If you hope to retire soon and are concerned about what the future may hold for your investments, you are not alone. Inflation has many retirees and soon-to-be retirees worried about outliving their savings and investments.1 What might you do to survive and even thrive during volatile markets? A financial plan may help you feel
- [4 Most Common Medicare Mistakes People Make](https://417wealth.com/4-most-common-medicare-mistakes-people-make/) - Medicare policies are the health insurance benefits you have worked toward throughout your life, and having the proper policy is critical as you are likely to face more health problems as you age. While these policies can provide you with the coverage you need for your health conditions later in life, they may be confusing
- [3 Common Social Security Scams and How To Avoid Being Fooled by Them](https://417wealth.com/3-common-social-security-scams-and-how-to-avoid-being-fooled-by-them/) - Targeted scams have become even more popular with the amount of personal information readily available on the internet. Social Security recipients are, unfortunately, targeted by some of the most sophisticated scam artists out there. From phone scams to phishing attempts and intercepted deposits, here are three common Social Security scams and how you might avoid
- [When to Call Me](https://417wealth.com/when-to-call-me/) - Times to call your financial advisor Most of us go to see professionals when we’re in trouble or during times of crisis. Think about it. We go to the doctor when we’re sick. We go see a lawyer when we have a pending legal matter. We go see a counselor when we’re feeling depressed. As
- [Spring Cleaning Your Investments](https://417wealth.com/spring-cleaning-your-investments/) - Everyone needs to clean-up their financial clutter at least once a year Spring is traditionally the time to clean the garage and to get the yard in shape. It’s also a great time to clean up your investment portfolio. Going into the final days of tax season, this is a perfect opportunity to get rid
- [Pearls of Wisdom: Wealth Preservation for High-Net-Worth Women](https://417wealth.com/pearls-of-wisdom-wealth-preservation-for-high-net-worth-women/) - Wealth preservation is essential for high-net-worth (HNW) individuals, but it warrants a gender-specific focus, too. Particularly for HNW women, understanding the complexities of wealth preservation is crucial. Whether due to inheritance, accomplishment in the corporate world, or entrepreneurial fulfillment, more women today find themselves in the ranks of HNW individuals. What makes a woman's situation
- [Protecting Your Tax Identity Doesn't Have to Be Taxing](https://417wealth.com/protecting-your-tax-identity-doesnt-have-to-be-taxing/) - When you think of identity theft, you may think of unauthorized credit card payments or new lines of credit. However, tax identity theft is one of the most common types of identity theft — and it’s also the most common fraud attempt during tax filing season.1 If your identity is stolen for tax purposes, you
- [10 New Year’s Resolutions for You to Think About](https://417wealth.com/10-new-years-resolutions-for-you-to-think-about/) - 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
- [Get Your Healthcare Affairs in Order as You Approach Retirement](https://417wealth.com/get-your-healthcare-affairs-in-order-as-you-approach-retirement/) - Healthcare is one of the more difficult areas to navigate as you get closer to retirement. With so much focus on saving enough for retirement and ensuring that your investments will keep up with inflation, many people fail to square away their healthcare affairs before retirement age. However, if you want a greater chance of
- [Retiring Early As a Couple: A Financial Love Story](https://417wealth.com/retiring-early-as-a-couple-a-financial-love-story/) - Retiring early as a couple is a goal shared by many, and if planned comprehensively, it may provide opportunities for travel, passion projects, and more quality time together. Retiring simultaneously can bring many benefits, such as shared experiences and time together, which may result in a stronger bond. However, it is essential to note that
- [Tips to Planning Your Purposeful Retirement](https://417wealth.com/tips-to-planning-your-purposeful-retirement/) - Three science-backed avenues to retirement enrichment and fulfillment Retirement is often idealized as a serene period of well-deserved rest and leisure. Yet, while the respite from a career's demands is welcome, retirees soon find that the keys to living well in this new phase are engagement and purpose. Research consistently shows that having a sense
- [IRS Announces New 2024 Income Tax Brackets](https://417wealth.com/irs-announces-new-2024-income-tax-brackets/) - Your financial professional can help leverage these changes to impact your tax liabilities It is crucial for individuals to engage in strategic tax planning with their financial professionals, particularly considering the changes to the standard deduction and tax brackets for the year 2024. These modifications, affecting filers who do not itemize their deductions, will
- [A Look at Tax Planning for Retirement](https://417wealth.com/a-look-at-tax-planning-for-retirement/) - 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
- [A Beginner's Guide to Tax-Smart Retirement Withdrawal Strategies](https://417wealth.com/a-beginners-guide-to-tax-smart-retirement-withdrawal-strategies/) - For many, retirement is the phase of life to kick back, relax, and enjoy the fruits of years of working and saving. However, financial decisions before and during retirement can significantly influence our quality of life and tax liability. Therefore, employing tax-smart retirement withdrawal strategies may help you maximize your retirement nest egg. Here are
- [Spreading Holiday Cheer with Year-End Giving](https://417wealth.com/spreading-holiday-cheer-with-year-end-giving/) - 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
- [Cold Weather Pet Precautions](https://417wealth.com/cold-weather-pet-precautions/) - 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
- [Staying the Course](https://417wealth.com/staying-the-course/) - The S&P 500 lost 3.3% in the third quarter after sliding nearly 5% in September. Putting this into perspective, nothing really qualifies as out of the ordinary. Since 1950, the S&P 500 has historically declined in September 55% of the time, posting an average decline of 3.8%. September has certainly lived up to its reputation
- [#GivingTuesday: A Global Day for Giving Back](https://417wealth.com/givingtuesday-a-global-day-for-giving-back/) - Consider whether a donor advised fund can help build a more generous world November brings us Thanksgiving – a day for simply giving thanks. The 11th month also brings us Black Friday and Cyber Monday – two days encouraging us to shop. And since 2012, the Tuesday after Thanksgiving also offers us #GivingTuesday, the
- [End of Year (EOY) Deadlines Checklist](https://417wealth.com/end-of-year-eoy-deadlines-checklist/) - For many of us, a new year is an opportunity for fresh starts and discovering the best versions of ourselves, but some things—like tax contributions and retirement deadlines—don't change much, if at all. And with that shiny new year right around the corner, meeting end-of-year deadlines and getting tax efficiencies in place now may prepare us
- [3 Tax Strategies Every Doctor Should Consider](https://417wealth.com/3-tax-strategies-every-doctor-should-consider/) - Being a doctor comes with a lot of stressors, but planning for taxes should not be one of them. As a doctor, you have been through years of hard work and may be looking for ways to help limit your tax liability and preserve as much of your hard-earned income as possible. Below are some
- [7 Estate Planning Topics to Discuss with the Family over Thanksgiving Dinner](https://417wealth.com/7-estate-planning-topics-to-discuss-with-the-family-over-thanksgiving-dinner/) - One of the more difficult conversations for family members to have is talking about estate planning. There are several reasons for this, including the reality of our own mortality and that of our loved ones. In some families, it is an unspoken taboo to talk about money. Many parents don’t want their children to know
- [Navigating Market Setbacks](https://417wealth.com/navigating-market-setbacks/) - Financial markets lived up to their reputation during the month of August, which has a record for being difficult.
- [5 Helpful Halloween Tricks to Navigating a Scary Stock Market](https://417wealth.com/5-helpful-halloween-tricks-to-navigating-a-scary-stock-market/) - Investing can be a roller coaster—and, when the market starts dropping, it may even feel more like a haunted house. With recession fears mounting, what can investors do to stay the course and escape unscathed? Here we discuss five tricks to help you navigate a scary stock market. Anticipate and Avoid Surprises If it has been
- [RMD Relief and Guidance for 2023](https://417wealth.com/rmd-relief-and-guidance-for-2023/) - In early 2022, the IRS issued proposed regulations regarding required minimum distributions (RMDs) to reflect changes made by the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act of 2019. The IRS has held off on releasing final regulations so that it can address additional changes to RMDs made by the SECURE 2.0 Act of
- [Estate Planning for Children and Adults with Special Needs](https://417wealth.com/estate-planning-for-children-and-adults-with-special-needs/) - As you go through life, planning for life's unpredictability is essential. If your family has children or adults with special needs, estate planning for their future care becomes vital. Estate planning for them is unique as it needs provisions in the plan to help ensure their independence and ongoing care when you are no longer
- [Why Did Retirement Confidence Falter in 2023?](https://417wealth.com/why-did-retirement-confidence-falter-in-2023/) - In its annual Retirement Confidence Survey of current workers and retirees, the Employee Benefit Research Institute found that workers' confidence in their ability to fund retirement fell by the largest extent since the financial crisis of 2008, to levels not seen since 2018. Retirees' confidence also took a substantial hit. Overall, just 20% of respondents
- [6 Health Moves That Save Money](https://417wealth.com/6-health-moves-that-save-money/) - Vowing to eat better or exercise more in the months ahead is a popular New Year’s resolution. But did you know that taking steps to improve your health can also save you money this year and long into the future? To benefit both your body and your bank account, follow these simple suggestions. Consult a Vowing to eat better or exercise more in the months ahead is a popular New Year’s resolution. But did you know that taking steps to improve your health can also save you money this year and long into the future? To benefit both your body and your bank account, follow these simple suggestions.
- [Tax Planning Tips: Life Insurance](https://417wealth.com/tax-planning-tips-life-insurance/) - Understanding the importance of life insurance is one thing. Understanding the tax rules is quite another. As insurance products have evolved and become more sophisticated, the line separating insurance vehicles from investment vehicles has grown blurry. To differentiate between the two, a mix of complex rules and exceptions now governs the taxation of insurance products. Understanding the importance of life insurance is one thing. Understanding the tax rules is quite another. As insurance products have evolved and become more sophisticated, the line separating insurance vehicles from investment vehicles has grown blurry.
- [Understanding Custodial Accounts 101](https://417wealth.com/understanding-custodial-accounts-101/) - Custodial accounts differ from other types of accounts in that an individual controls the account for the benefit of a minor, who is the beneficiary. It's important to note that the individual managing the custodial account acts as a fiduciary and is legally bound to act in an ethical manner and in the best interest
- [5 Must-Have Items for Your Financial First Aid Kit](https://417wealth.com/5-must-have-items-for-your-financial-first-aid-kit-2/) - Every year, around 3 million Americans are required to evacuate their homes due to a natural disaster.1 What's more, this figure does not include the millions of other individuals who are temporarily displaced as a result of fire, flood, or other damage to their homes. Do you have the documents you need if you find
- [A Guide to the Dynamics of Rolling Recessions](https://417wealth.com/a-guide-to-the-dynamics-of-rolling-recessions/) - Tips to spot opportunities, mitigate risks and establish your financial resilience Over the past year, the global economy has faced a series of rolling recessions – periods of economic decline that impact specific sectors or regions without bringing down the entire economy. This phenomenon, although concerning, is not necessarily as disastrous as it may sound.
- [Acquaint Grown Children with Your Financial Affairs](https://417wealth.com/acquaint-grown-children-with-your-financial-affairs/) - Many parents may feel it is unnecessary to inform their adult children about their personal, financial affairs. However, as your children grow older, it can work to your advantage—and that of your entire family— to share with them key financial, medical, and estate planning information.
- [Staying Invested in a Tricky Market Environment](https://417wealth.com/staying-invested-in-a-tricky-market-environment/) - Making economic forecasts and stock market predictions can be humbling. It’s especially tough when you expect stocks to go higher and get a big drop instead. The environment today is the opposite, but still tricky, as recession hasn’t followed the chorus of predictions. In some ways, figuring out what to do now that stocks have
- [Lump Sum vs. Dollar-Cost Averaging: Which Is Better?](https://417wealth.com/lump-sum-vs-dollar-cost-averaging-which-is-better/) - Some people go swimming by diving into the pool; others prefer to edge into the water gradually, especially if the water is cold. A decision about putting money into an investment can be somewhat similar. Is it best to invest your money all at once, putting a lump sum into something you believe will do
- [Investor Expectations and Market Realities](https://417wealth.com/investor-expectations-and-market-realities/) - Tech and AI are capturing all the hype, but look to fundamental indicators In recent times, investor expectations have shown a concerning trend of becoming detached from the realities of the market. The focus on technology and artificial intelligence (AI) has largely kept investors engaged and buying, creating a sense of enthusiasm that seems to
- [3 Tips for Preserving Wealth in Your Golden Years](https://417wealth.com/3-tips-for-preserving-wealth-in-your-golden-years/) - After spending so much of your life saving for retirement, it may be challenging to transition from depositing funds to withdrawing them.
- [The Sandwich Generation: Caring for Parents and Children Simultaneously](https://417wealth.com/the-sandwich-generation-caring-for-parents-and-children-simultaneously/) - As the U.S. population continues to age, the “sandwich generation” is caught in the middle, supporting both their parents and their children, whether financially, physically, or emotionally. This generation is the middle-aged generation supporting the baby boomer generation—now the largest generation ever. According to research by Harvard University's Joint Center for Housing Studies, by 2035,
- [Debt Ceiling Drama Is Behind Us](https://417wealth.com/debt-ceiling-drama-is-behind-us/) - Every so often Washington likes to remind us how hard it can be to get things accomplished. The most recent example is the debt ceiling—the amount Congress can borrow to pay its bills. It seems like we have this debate every few years and in the end a deal is made, which is just what
- [401(k) Rollovers Can Make or Break Retirement](https://417wealth.com/401k-rollovers-can-make-or-break-retirement/) - Making informed decisions about retirement is crucial to financial independence In an era characterized by high job turnover, it is more important than ever for employees to carefully manage their retirement savings. With a significant portion of Americans withdrawing money from their 401(k)s when they change employers, understanding the value of 401(k) rollovers is
- [Investing in Your 60s and Beyond](https://417wealth.com/investing-in-your-60s-and-beyond/) - Once you are in your 60s, you are likely to focus less on growing your retirement funds than answering, "When do I retire?" And once you crack open your nest egg, how should you allocate its contents? The answer often lies in a substantial shift in your investment strategy. Here are some ideas for investing
- [Unused 529 Plan Funds: 5 Spending Options to Consider](https://417wealth.com/unused-529-plan-funds-5-spending-options-to-consider/) - 529 plans are tax-advantaged savings vehicles designed to accumulate contributions and help pay for the beneficiary's qualifying education expenses. Sometimes, 529 plans have unused funds after the beneficiary graduates or decide to discontinue their education. There may be other reasons the funds were not used, such as: The beneficiary received scholarships The beneficiary used monies
- [Emergency Savings or Your Retirement Goals?](https://417wealth.com/emergency-savings-or-your-retirement-goals/) - When it comes to personal finance, there are a number of competing priorities that can make it difficult to determine where to focus your efforts. For many people, the choice between building emergency savings and working towards their retirement goals is one of the biggest dilemmas they face. So, which should you focus on first?
- [Money Milestones: 4 Financial Goals for Older Individuals](https://417wealth.com/money-milestones-4-financial-goals-for-older-individuals/) - If you saved for retirement for a while, you might look forward to a break from financial responsibility for the remaining portion of your life. But striving for economic betterment should not end when you hit retirement. You may continue to work toward new financial goals every year or every decade to manage the freedom
- [As Rates Rise, CDs Are Making A Big Comeback](https://417wealth.com/as-rates-rise-cds-are-making-a-big-comeback/) - Low-risk, predictable returns for investors needing to preserve their capital In a rising interest rate environment, fixed-income investments become increasingly important for investors. Fixed-income investments such as bonds, Treasury bills, and Certificates of Deposit (CDs) provide a steady income stream and are generally considered to be less risky than other types of investments such as
- [Take a Swing at Investing Like a Golfer](https://417wealth.com/take-a-swing-at-investing-like-a-golfer/) - Golfing and investing may not seem to share much common ground at first glance. But the more you think about it, a successful golfer and a successful investor share a number of traits such as patience, perseverance, attention to detail, and intellectual curiosity. Below, we discuss a few areas investing and golf have in common—as
- [Investor Sentiment Tested](https://417wealth.com/investor-sentiment-tested/) - Spring is often thought of as an uplifting time, marked by growth and renewed hope as we emerge from the long months of winter and look ahead to the rest of year. Investors saw signs of such renewed hope in recent weeks, especially on the inflation front as several inflation measures showed signs of improvement.
- [Retiring as a Small-Business Owner: What to Know Before You Go](https://417wealth.com/retiring-as-a-small-business-owner-what-to-know-before-you-go/) - The thought of retiring may be intimidating for anyone—but if you own your own business, handing your "baby" to new owners might be enough to stop you in your tracks. What might you do to set your successor up for success? What should all business owners know before they go? Set Specific Retirement Goals
- [A Resilient March](https://417wealth.com/a-resilient-march/) - April 4, 2023 The financial markets’ resilient performance during March was striking, despite pockets of uncertainty surrounding the strength of the economy—and not to mention concerns over the durability of the banking system. The ability of the market to navigate nearly two weeks of headline-related risk tested the underlying resolve of the market’s capacity to
- [Five Ways SECURE 2.0 Changes the Required Minimum Distribution Rules](https://417wealth.com/five-ways-secure-2-0-changes-the-required-minimum-distribution-rules/) - The SECURE 2.0 legislation included in the $1.7 trillion appropriations bill passed late last year builds on changes established by the original Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement Act (SECURE 1.0) enacted in 2019. SECURE 2.0 includes significant changes to the rules that apply to required minimum distributions from IRAs and employer retirement plans.
- [From Riches To Rags In Three Generations: Managing Generational Wealth Checklist](https://417wealth.com/from-riches-to-rags-in-three-generations-managing-generational-wealth-checklist/) - When discussing multigenerational wealth it is common to come across proverbs that acknowledge the fact that generational wealth typically won’t make it past the third generation. In the United States the saying goes, “from shirtsleeves to shirtsleeves in three generations.” [i] In China it is said, “rags to rags in three generations.” [ii] Generational wealth
- [Understanding Social Security Strategies](https://417wealth.com/understanding-social-security-strategies/) - As you age, the question of when to collect Social Security (SS) retirement benefits will likely come to mind. There is no one size fits all age; your unique circumstances and goals will dictate the appropriate time for you to take Social Security retirement benefits. Some SS strategies may boost your monthly benefit amount, helping
- [When Changing Jobs, Rollovers May Offer Benefits](https://417wealth.com/when-changing-jobs-rollovers-may-offer-benefits/) - Consolidating retirement accounts can help your retirement immensely For many individuals, changing jobs can be an exciting opportunity to advance their career or pursue new interests. However, it can also present a challenge when it comes to managing their retirement savings. When switching jobs, individuals may have options to leave their accounts with their former
- [How Emotional and Behavioral Barriers May Impact Your Investing Decisions](https://417wealth.com/how-emotional-and-behavioral-barriers-may-impact-your-investing-decisions/) - Ah, Money. The word leaves you with a positive or a negative feeling when you hear it. The feeling we get from money, and investing, has deep roots inside our emotions, although we may not understand why. Behavioral science explains why we make our investment decisions and how we emotionally react to them.
- [How to Spring Clean Your Finances with a Financial Review](https://417wealth.com/how-to-spring-clean-your-finances-with-a-financial-review/) - Spring cleaning presents a great opportunity to clear out any items you no longer need—and the same goes for your finances. Checking in with your finances during tax season may be particularly beneficial, as it allows you to complete last year's taxes while making any changes you need to potentially improve next year's tax situation. Below, we discuss what's included in a financial review and how such a review can help you spring clean your finances.
- [Everything Older Workers Need to Know About Retiring](https://417wealth.com/everything-older-workers-need-to-know-about-retiring-2everything-older-workers-need-to-know-about-retiring/) - Many workers have been dreaming of retirement since they first entered the workforce. However, once this retirement date draws near, the prospect of giving up your primary source of income may be nerve-wracking, even if you've diligently saved and planned. Below, we discuss a few steps you may wish to take to potentially make this transition easier.
- [IRA Mistakes to Avoid](https://417wealth.com/ira-mistakes-to-avoid/) - If you already contribute to a 401(k) or another retirement account through work, you may not have spent much time thinking about opening an individual retirement account (IRA). However, an IRA might provide you with a way to boost your savings even further. Both traditional and Roth IRAs can present a prime opportunity to set
- [Wealth Due to Inheritance](https://417wealth.com/wealth-due-to-inheritance/) - If you're the beneficiary of a large inheritance, you may find yourself suddenly wealthy. Even if you expected the inheritance, you may be surprised by the size of the bequest or the diverse assets you've inherited. You'll need to evaluate your new financial position, learn to manage your sizable assets, and consider the tax consequences
- [A Look Back at Inflation in 2022](https://417wealth.com/a-look-back-at-inflation-in-2022/) - As we enter a new year, you may be wondering what’s in store for the economy in 2023. To help ensure your financial success, here are some insights into the recent impacts of inflation. What happened in 2022? Last year proved to be a tumultuous time for many due to the rising costs of goods
- [Kick off the Big Game With These 7 Super Investing Lessons From the Super Bowl](https://417wealth.com/kick-off-the-big-game-with-these-7-super-investing-lessons-from-the-super-bowl/) - The Super Bowl is more than just a game. It's an American holiday. As you prepare for this fun day, you may also want to think about how to create "big wins'' in your investment strategy. Get ready for Super Bowl Sunday by checking out these Super Bowl-inspired investment strategies.
- [An Annual Financial 'To-Do' List to Help Keep Your Finances on Track](https://417wealth.com/an-annual-financial-to-do-list-to-help-keep-your-finances-on-track/) - Each year, many of us focus on our financial health by resetting goals and checking off items on our financial to-do list. Attempting to implement everything at once can be overwhelming but a month-by-month approach may help you plan and develop actionable financial goals. While some financial tasks are time-sensitive, others can be checked off the list as you complete them throughout the year. Here is a month-by-month to-do list to help you pursue your financial goals and keep you on track throughout the year:
- [Beware Scams at Tax Time](https://417wealth.com/beware-scams-at-tax-time/) - Identity thieves often swipe your bank or credit card account numbers, birth date information or Social Security Number (SSN) to steal from your accounts, open a new and phony account or make illegal purchases. Some 15.4 million consumers were victims of identity theft or fraud last year, according to a report from Javelin Strategy & Research.
- [Taxation of Investments](https://417wealth.com/taxation-of-investments/) - It\'s nice to own stocks, bonds, and other investments. Nice, that is, until it\'s time to fill out your federal income tax return. At that point, you may be left scratching your head. Just how do you report your investments and how are they taxed?
- [Worried About Your Financial Health? It May Be Time For A Checkup](https://417wealth.com/worried-about-your-financial-health-it-may-be-time-for-a-checkup/) - When was the last time you gave yourself a financial checkup? As the saying goes, there’s no time like the present. This is especially true when it comes to reviewing the current state of your finances and figuring out what you need to do to get – or stay – on track so you can pursue your financial goals. To do this requires you to take into account a variety of factors. Setting aside time to understand your financial condition and conduct an honest assessment of where you stand is a great way to get started. Before you jump right in, consider these seven steps that you can take to assist you in evaluating where you stand financially and to help you determine a reasonable course of action to plan for the future.
- [Staying on Track with Your Retirement Investments](https://417wealth.com/staying-on-track-with-your-retirement-investments/) - Investing for your retirement isn\'t about getting rich quick. More often, it\'s about having a game plan that you can live with over a long time. You wouldn\'t expect to be able to play the piano without learning the basics and practicing. Investing for your retirement over the long term also takes a little knowledge
- [Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act - Top 10 Key Provisions](https://417wealth.com/setting-every-community-up-for-retirement-enhancement-secure-act-top-10-key-provisions/) - As Enacted on December 20, 2019 · Prepared for LPL by Davis & Harman LLP Open Multiple Employer Plans / Pooled Employer Plans – The SECURE Act allows unrelated small employers to band together in “open” 401(k) multiple-employer plans (MEPs; also referred to as pooled employer plans (PEPs)). This reduces the costs and administrative
- [What Is in the $2 Trillion Relief Package?](https://417wealth.com/what-is-in-the-2-trillion-relief-package/) - The United States has more cases of the coronavirus than any other country, and in an attempt to stop the spread of this disease, states have closed schools and businesses throughout the country. These unprecedented shutdowns have pushed many people out of work, hurt businesses, and brought much of the economy to a screeching halt.
- [A Unique Economic Situation](https://417wealth.com/a-unique-economic-situation/) - These are challenging times, and this week may be the toughest as we wait for COVID-19 to reach its peak in the United States. As the war against COVID-19 wages on, we continue to be inspired by the tremendous bravery shown by healthcare workers on the front lines. Other heroes will likely emerge from a
- [When to Call Me: Times to call your financial advisor](https://417wealth.com/when-to-call-me-times-to-call-your-financial-advisor/) - Most of us go to see professionals when we’re in trouble or during times of crisis. Think about it. We go to the doctor when we’re sick. We go see a lawyer when we have a pending legal matter. We go see a counselor when we’re feeling depressed. As a financial advisor, unfortunately, I often
- [How We Respond Matters](https://417wealth.com/how-we-respond-matters/) - “Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you respond to it.” — Lou Holtz, Hall of Fame football coach As the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic continues, how we respond to it will determine how we beat it. Continued sacrifices range from everyone in the medical community working on the front lines
- [April is Financial Literacy Month: Too many people just don’t have it, but your financial professional can help](https://417wealth.com/april-is-financial-literacy-month-too-many-people-just-dont-have-it-but-your-financial-professional-can-help/) - April is National Financial Literacy Month – an entire month dedicated to underscoring the importance of learning, establishing and maintaining healthy financial habits. But ask yourself this: what have you learned about anything financial lately? Do most of your neighbors keep a household budget or save for retirement? Does your cousin live hand-to-mouth? Do you
- [The Importance of Financial Wellness](https://417wealth.com/the-importance-of-financial-wellness/) - Financial wellness, like physical wellness, isn’t something you should ignore. Instead, it\'s a critical concept for anyone who wants to be knowledgeable and confident about their finances, and in fact, financial wellness is so important that more than half1 of employers now offer financial wellness programs to their workers. So, what is financial wellness and
- [The Backdoor Roth IRA in a Nutshell](https://417wealth.com/the-backdoor-roth-ira-in-a-nutshell/) - If you are wondering what in the world a “backdoor Roth IRA” is, you\'re not alone! In short, if you\'ve been frustrated by the contribution limits associated with Roth IRAs, then read on - this article describes a strategy that designed to help. We all know that the IRS imposes annual contribution limits for both traditional and
- [American Families Plan Would Provide Benefits for Some, More Taxes for Others](https://417wealth.com/american-families-plan-would-provide-benefits-for-some-more-taxes-for-others/) - On April 28, 2021, the White House released a fact sheet for President Biden\'s American Families Plan (AFP), which proposes about $1 trillion in investments and $800 billion in tax cuts. There would also be tax increases for those making more than $400,000 per year. Major provisions proposed in the plan are summarized here, including
- [Rising Inflation: Where Will It Go from Here?](https://417wealth.com/rising-inflation-where-will-it-go-from-here/) - In March 2021, the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) rose 0.6%, the largest one-month increase since August 2012. Over the previous 12 months, the increase was 2.6%, the highest year-over-year inflation rate since August 2018. (By contrast, inflation in 2020 was just 1.4%.) The annual increase in CPI-U — often called headline
- [Retirement Confidence Remains Strong, Despite Pandemic](https://417wealth.com/retirement-confidence-remains-strong-despite-pandemic/) - Despite the economic shock of the coronavirus pandemic, American workers and retirees remain largely optimistic about their financial prospects for retirement. In its annual Retirement Confidence Survey conducted in January 2021, the Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI) found that 80% of retirees and 72% of workers were either very or somewhat confident in their ability
- [What to Do if You Underpay Your Taxes](https://417wealth.com/what-to-do-if-you-underpay-your-taxes/) - Every year, there are taxpayers that underpay their taxes. It just happens. But if you do that, no matter how innocent your underpayment might have been, you can be subject to penalties. The IRS issued a statement to help those who underpay to avoid penalties. From the IRS: “Taxpayers who paid too little tax during
- [A Guide to Retirement Planning for Doctors](https://417wealth.com/a-guide-to-retirement-planning-for-doctors/) - Working in medicine may be challenging, especially with the strain placed on health care professionals throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Working towards a comfortable early retirement may be a financial goal for some physicians. Here are some suggestions that doctors may use to manage financial independence. Investigate Qualified Retirement Plans Physicians are often subject to complex
- [3 Estate Planning Tips for Small-Business Owners](https://417wealth.com/3-estate-planning-tips-for-small-business-owners/) - For business owners, estate planning may seem like another task to do on a long to-do list. Having a solid estate and succession plan in place may be crucial to your business\'s long-term success. If you are incapable of making business decisions, or if you unexpectedly pass away without an estate plan, your heirs may
- [Black Swans: Short-Term Crisis, Long-Term Opportunity](https://417wealth.com/black-swans-short-term-crisis-long-term-opportunity/) - Buy on Fear, Sell on Greed? Legendary investor Warren Buffet is a big proponent of this strategy. When others are greedy—typically when prices are boiling over—assets may be overpriced. On the flipside, there may be good buying opportunities when others are fearful.
- [If Social Security Falls Short - Have a Plan](https://417wealth.com/if-social-security-falls-short-have-a-plan/) - It’s important to take a long, hard look at your current savings strategy to ensure you’ll be able to compensate for this, or any other, retirement income shortfall.
- [Inherited IRAs: What You Should Know](https://417wealth.com/inherited-iras-what-you-should-know/) - The rules pertaining to Individual Retirement Account (IRA) beneficiaries can be complicated. Here is a quick look at the limitations the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) places on the beneficiaries of IRAs.
- [Managing Bond Risks When Interest Rates Rise](https://417wealth.com/managing-bond-risks-when-interest-rates-rise/) - After dropping the benchmark federal funds rate to a rock-bottom range of 0%–0.25% early in the pandemic, the Federal Open Market Committee has begun raising the rate toward more typical historical levels in response to high inflation.
- [Navigating Market Volatility–or Not](https://417wealth.com/navigating-market-volatility-or-not/) - Market volatility could spook even the most seasoned investor. If a precipitous week or two in the market has you ready to sell, you may want to reconsider your risk tolerance and asset allocation. Attempting to time the market by selling during a drop could often mean missing the prime point of re-entry—selling low and buying high or selling low and failing to buy at all. What should investors consider when navigating market volatility?
- [529 College Savings Plans: For Education and Estate Planning](https://417wealth.com/529-college-savings-plans-for-education-and-estate-planning/) - 529 College Savings plans are essential for saving for higher education expenses, and if used for education, accumulate tax-free.
- [Required Distributions: Changes You Need to Know](https://417wealth.com/required-distributions-changes-you-need-to-know/) - In February 2022, the IRS issued proposed regulations (generally applicable starting in 2022) that interpret the revised required minimum distribution (RMD) rules. Unless these proposals are amended, some beneficiaries could be subject to annual required distributions as well as a full distribution at the end of a 10-year period
- [The 3 Wall Street Voices and 9 Myths – Part I](https://417wealth.com/the-3-wall-street-voices-and-9-myths-part-i/) - Wall Street has three voices it wants you to listen to and nine myths it wants you to believe. They are designed to allow “The Street” to keep making money from you. Exposing them will help you be a better investor.
- [The 3 Wall Street Voices and 9 Myths – Part II](https://417wealth.com/the-3-wall-street-voices-and-9-myths-part-ii/) - You need to go beyond the voices, and listen to reason that may calm the panic, refute passivity and debunk so-called secret formulas.
- [The 3 Wall Street Voices and 9 Myths – Part III](https://417wealth.com/the-3-wall-street-voices-and-9-myths-part-iii/) - Here are three of the nine investment myths that Wall Street wants you to believe.
- [5 Year-End Tax Planning Questions to Ask Your Financial Professional](https://417wealth.com/5-year-end-tax-planning-questions-to-ask-your-financial-professional/) - There are many tax planning moves you can make before December 31 to reduce your owed taxes, but how do you know which ones are available to you? Here are five year-end tax planning questions you may want to ask your financial professional soon.
- [Social Security Gets a Massive 8.7% Raise, But…](https://417wealth.com/social-security-gets-a-massive-8-7-raise-but/) - Social security is way behind inflation so you may need a better retirement plan In October of 2022, the Social Security Administration announced that Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits for more than 70 million Americans will increase 8.7%. The adjustment will increase monthly Social Security checks by about $145 per month
- [Volunteering Tips for Families](https://417wealth.com/volunteering-tips-for-families/) - So, you’re interested in volunteering as a family this season. That’s wonderful—and we commend you for your service! It’s always rewarding to donate your time to a charity that’s important to you. But volunteering as a group can bring up a different set of challenges that you might not have faced volunteering by yourself. Before
- [Enduring Market Volatility With a Financial Plan](https://417wealth.com/enduring-market-volatility-with-a-financial-plan/) - If you hope to retire soon and are concerned about what the future may hold for your investments, you are not alone. Inflation has many retirees and soon-to-be retirees worried about outliving their savings and investments.
- [Year-End Donations and #GivingTuesday](https://417wealth.com/year-end-donations-and-givingtuesday/) - With its family traditions and festive celebrations, the holiday season is the most wonderful time of the year. And according to GivingTuesday.org, the giving in the U.S. alone totaled $2.7 billion to nonprofits and community organizations on #GivingTuesday in 2021, a 6% increase from 2020.
- [End of Year Financial Planning](https://417wealth.com/end-of-year-financial-planning/) - For some, it’s easy to put personal finances on the back burner during the last few months of the year. However, before the year comes to an end, it’s essential to review your finances. By doing so now, you can make the most of reviewing this year’s progress and plan for next year to help position yourself for a financially strong future. Here are some tips to help with your end of year financial planning:
- [Too Good To Be True? 4 Black Friday and Cyber Monday Scams and How To Spot Them](https://417wealth.com/too-good-to-be-true-4-black-friday-and-cyber-monday-scams-and-how-to-spot-them/) - Black Friday and Cyber Monday are two of the greatest days to score deals for holiday shopping. Unfortunately, with amazing deals plentiful, some scammers use these days to take advantage of shoppers looking for the greatest bargains on items they need. Try to shield yourself during this holiday shopping season by understanding the type of scams these criminals perpetrate and how to spot them.
- [A Year-End Wealth Planning Guide](https://417wealth.com/a-year-end-wealth-planning-guide/) - As we approach the end of the year, you may want to review areas that may impact your wealth and estate planning next year. In this year-end planning guide, we examine four critical areas to consider that may affect your finances.
- [How Financial Planning Can Help Prepare for LTC Costs](https://417wealth.com/how-financial-planning-can-help-prepare-for-ltc-costs/) - With the cost of long-term care (LTC) increasing year over year, considering how the costs of long-term LTC will impact your financial plan is essential. According to insurance company Genworth, the price of LTC services increased substantially in 2021 for specific settings due to the supply of professional labor and the growing aging society. Other
- [Estate, Gift, and Generation-Skipping Transfer (GST) Taxation and Life Insurance: Estate Planning](https://417wealth.com/estate-gift-and-generation-skipping-transfer-gst-taxation-and-life-insurance-estate-planning/) - Don\'t let taxes steal your family\'s financial security Life insurance can provide financial security for your family. However, if you don\'t plan appropriately, taxes can greatly reduce the life insurance benefits actually received by your family. Although life insurance proceeds are generally received by the beneficiaries free of income tax, you need to understand how
- [The Financial Planning Process:  Why and How   ](https://417wealth.com/the-financial-planning-process-why-and-how/) - Planning personal finances used to be the worry of the wealthy and their worry—usually preservation of wealth—was attended to by teams of trust officers and lawyers. Many of today’s middle class families have different concerns: funding retirement; educating children; protecting assets; and coping with unexpected changes in health, employment, and marital situations. But, whether your
- [The Differences Between Growth, Core & Value](https://417wealth.com/the-differences-between-growth-core-value/) - Understanding your style of investing is an important step – especially today Are you a Growth investor or a Value investor? Or do you prefer a mix of the two? Understanding your style of investing is an important step in deciding where to allocate your portfolio – but trying to predict which style will outperform
- [Some Things Investors Need to Know About Booms and Busts](https://417wealth.com/some-things-investors-need-to-know-about-booms-and-busts/) - Economies and markets are cyclical. They may include periods of wealth creation and times of bursting bubbles that bankrupt companies in a major downturn. \"Boom and bust\" cycles may last anywhere from a few months to a few years or longer. During boom times, the economy grows, there are more jobs, and the market provides
- [The Great Wealth Transfer: Is Your Family Prepared?](https://417wealth.com/the-great-wealth-transfer-is-your-family-prepared/) - Over the next twenty years, a wealth transfer will occur that exceeds $30 trillion as the Baby Boomer generation passes the remainder of their wealth to the Millennials and subsequent generations. The Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964) are considered the wealthiest generation, currently controlling 70% of the disposable income in the United States. It is imperative
- [Back to Basics - Diversification and Asset Allocation](https://417wealth.com/back-to-basics-diversification-and-asset-allocation/) - When investing, particularly for long-term goals, there are two concepts you will likely hear about over and over again — diversification and asset allocation. Diversification helps limit exposure to loss in any one investment or one type of investment, while asset allocation provides a blueprint to help guide your investment decisions. Understanding how the two
- [Now Might Be a Good Time for a Roth Conversion](https://417wealth.com/now-might-be-a-good-time-for-a-roth-conversion/) - One silver lining in the current bear market is that this could be a good time to convert assets from a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA. Converted assets are subject to federal income tax in the year of conversion, which might be a substantial tax bill. However, if assets in your traditional IRA have
- [Setting and Targeting Investment Goals](https://417wealth.com/setting-and-targeting-investment-goals/) - Go out into your yard and dig a big hole. Every month, throw $50 into it, but don\'t take any money out until you\'re ready to buy a house, send your child to college, or retire. It sounds a little crazy, doesn\'t it? But that\'s what investing without setting clear-cut goals is like. If you\'re
- [Keeping It Simple: The Benefits of Simplifying Your Investment Strategies](https://417wealth.com/keeping-it-simple-the-benefits-of-simplifying-your-investment-strategies/) - When it comes to investing, having fewer investments might help streamline your portfolio to manage stress better. Here are some benefits of a simple portfolio and some ways to help you create one. The Benefits of Simplicity Unless you do not mind managing your investments as a full-time job, consolidating and simplifying your portfolio may
- [Boomers\' Post-Pandemic Retirement Concerns](https://417wealth.com/boomers-post-pandemic-retirement-concerns/) - For many who are decades away from leaving the workforce, retirement may seem like an abstract concept. But once you\'ve entered your late fifties—like the youngest Baby Boomers, turning 57 in 2021—retirement may begin to seem very real.1 A recent survey of Boomers found that thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, 52% of those who are
- [Seeking Simplicity: Understanding SIMPLE IRAs and SIMPLE 401(k)s](https://417wealth.com/seeking-simplicity-understanding-simple-iras-and-simple-401ks/) - For those who don\'t have a 401(k) option through their employer—which includes some small-business owners—how to save for retirement might be challenging. In a competitive employment market, offering retirement options to new hires and existing employees may help you remain competitive and attract top talent. Consider these retirement simplicity plans: The SIMPLE 401(k) and the
- [Are You a Non-Spouse Beneficiary of an Inherited IRA? The IRS Has New Rules for You](https://417wealth.com/are-you-a-non-spouse-beneficiary-of-an-inherited-ira-the-irs-has-new-rules-for-you/) - If you are a non-spouse beneficiary of an IRA, proposed IRS rules regarding distributions may impact your situation. In February 2022, the IRS and Treasury Department reinstated SECURE Act RMD requirements for IRAs inherited in 2020 or later. The new rules apply to non-spouse beneficiaries and distributions, and override earlier releases published in May 2021.
- [An Introduction to Estate Planning for the Sandwich Generation](https://417wealth.com/an-introduction-to-estate-planning-for-the-sandwich-generation/) - For members of the \"Sandwich Generation\"—those currently in their 40s and 50s who are caring for children and their parents who are over 65-years old—estate planning may seem like a low priority. After all, when you\'re juggling multiple caregiving responsibilities daily, sitting down to draft a will is easy to put off. But estate planning
- [6 Ways to Minimize Your Tax Liability Throughout the Year](https://417wealth.com/6-ways-to-minimize-your-tax-liability-throughout-the-year/) - You don\'t need to wait until the end of the year to look for ways to minimize your tax liability. Tax planning should take place throughout the year to have you prepared well ahead of tax season. Here are six ways to minimize your tax liability that you can implement any time before the end
- [Despite Concerns, Retirement Confidence Remains Steady](https://417wealth.com/despite-concerns-retirement-confidence-remains-steady/) - Nearly three quarters of workers and 77% of retirees in a recent survey said they remain at least somewhat confident that they will experience a comfortable retirement, according to the Employee Benefit Research Institute. Nevertheless, a third of workers and a quarter of retirees felt less confident this year due to the economic effects of
- [Working During Retirement](https://417wealth.com/working-during-retirement/) - Planning on working during retirement? If so, you\'re not alone. An increasing number of employees nearing retirement plan to work at least some period of time during their retirement years. Why work during retirement? Obviously, if you work during retirement, you\'ll be earning money and relying less on your retirement savings — leaving more to
- [Everything Older Workers Need to Know About Retiring](https://417wealth.com/everything-older-workers-need-to-know-about-retiring/) - Many workers have been dreaming of retirement since they first entered the workforce. However, once this retirement date draws near, the prospect of giving up your primary source of income may be nerve-wracking, even if you\'ve diligently saved and planned. Below, we discuss a few steps you may wish to take to potentially make this
- [Pay Down Debt or Save for Retirement?](https://417wealth.com/pay-down-debt-or-save-for-retirement/) - You can use a variety of strategies to pay off debt, many of which can cut not only the amount of time it will take to pay off the debt but also the total interest paid. But like many people, you may be torn between paying off debt and the need to save for retirement.
- [What Can the Best/Worst Stocks of 2021 Tell Us?](https://417wealth.com/what-can-the-best-worst-stocks-of-2021-tell-us/) - Looking for longer-term market trends that might shape the next few years Let’s be honest for a second: the DJIA, the S&P 500, NASDAQ, and the Russell 2000 all delivered one of the most surprising years in recent history. And while many are happy to see 2021 in the rear-view mirror, the 2021 performance for
- [IRA Beneficiary Rules Directly From the IRS](https://417wealth.com/ira-beneficiary-rules-directly-from-the-irs/) - Know what to do if you inherit an IRA from a spouse or someone else As we get older, it is likely that we might inherit an IRA from mom or dad – or we need to counsel mom or dad as they inherit an IRA after one of them dies. The rules are different
- [How to Recognize and Protect Yourself Against Tax Identity Theft](https://417wealth.com/how-to-recognize-and-protect-yourself-against-tax-identity-theft/) - When you hear the term identity theft, the first thought that comes to mind may involve a data breach or opening a credit card in someone else\'s name. But another common type of identity theft involves the use of someone\'s Social Security number to unlawfully intercept their income tax refund. Unfortunately, this fraud often isn\'t
- [Tax Prep Checklist: Everything You Need to Be Ready for Tax Season](https://417wealth.com/tax-prep-checklist-everything-you-need-to-be-ready-for-tax-season/) - Regardless of whether you prepare your taxes yourself or use a professional\'s services, it\'s a good idea to gather the information and documentation you need well in advance of your actual tax filing date. Below, we\'ve listed some key information you need when preparing this year\'s taxes. Your Personal Information The personal information you may
- [Inflation: The Not-So-Silent Retirement Killer](https://417wealth.com/inflation-the-not-so-silent-retirement-killer/) - Your long-term retirement strategies must account for inflation – or else You hear it all the time: you should make sure your retirement savings at least keep pace with inflation. But what is inflation and how does it really affect your retirement savings? Let’s explore. Inflation is defined as an increase in the general level
- [The Best Items to Help You Organize Your Finances and Important Documents](https://417wealth.com/the-best-items-to-help-you-organize-your-finances-and-important-documents/) - The first step to improving your finances is to get organized. These top Amazon finds can help you create a monthly budget, plan your spending, and safely store your important insurance or personal documents for easy access when you’re at home or on the go. On your desk It’s important to sit down and budget,
- [Five New Year\'s Resolutions for Those Nearing Retirement](https://417wealth.com/five-new-years-resolutions-for-those-nearing-retirement/) - Getting ready for retirement is both exciting and daunting. While you are likely looking forward to the enjoyment and relaxation that retirement may bring, you are also cautious about ensuring you have enough money to be able to retire in the comfort you anticipate. If your retirement years are on the horizon, below are a
- [Remarkable Rise Of ESG Investing](https://417wealth.com/remarkable-rise-of-esg-investing/) - Responsible investing is widely understood as the integration of environmental, social and governance factors – hence the ESG acronym – into investment processes and decision-making. ESG factors cover a wide spectrum of issues that traditionally are not part of financial analysis, yet may have financial relevance for investors. ESG factors might include how corporations respond
- [Why to Buy and Sell a Home in the Winter](https://417wealth.com/why-to-buy-and-sell-a-home-in-the-winter/) - Winter weather usually has everyone hiding indoors— anxiously waiting for the spring to start the home buying and selling process. If you are interested in buying or selling a home, don’t wait! There are plenty of advantages to buying and selling during the winter season. Less competition Many people wait until warmer months to come
- [A Season of Giving: 5 Different Ways To Give During the Holidays](https://417wealth.com/a-season-of-giving-5-different-ways-to-give-during-the-holidays/) - With the holidays here, now is the time to get into the giving spirit and help to change others\' lives for the better. Whether you are looking to make a difference in a specific person\'s life or the life of many, there are many ways to give this holiday season. Here are some different ways
- [3 Financial Moves to Consider Before Ringing in the New Year](https://417wealth.com/3-financial-moves-to-consider-before-ringing-in-the-new-year/) - Although you don\'t have to wait until January to begin working on your financial goals, a new year may bring a much-needed fresh start on your spending and saving goals. Read on for three financial moves you may want to consider before ringing in the New Year. Open a Health Savings Account (HSA) If you
- [2021 Year-End Planning for Retirees](https://417wealth.com/2021-year-end-planning-for-retirees/) - For some, 2021 has flown by—and as we approach the last quarter of the year, it\'s a good time to begin planning for the next one. Year-end planning is especially important for retirees and those hoping to retire in 2021 or 2022. There are tax and income strategies you might consider regarding your financial assets.
- [Carving Out Time to Support Small Business Saturday](https://417wealth.com/carving-out-time-to-support-small-business-saturday/) - American Express created Small Business Saturday in 2010 to provide small businesses with a holiday season boost on the heels of Black Friday. The day comes after one of the biggest shopping sales events and serves as a reminder to spend some of your holiday funds with local shops. Those shops may on your support
- [Solo Opportunities: One-Person 401(k)s](https://417wealth.com/solo-opportunities-one-person-401ks/) - An entrepreneur may be eager to take advantage of every available business opportunity. However, in order to prepare for retirement, the entrepreneur might be searching for potential options that suit their unique situation. Many small businesses offer retirement benefits through Simplified Employee Pension (SEP) plans and Savings Incentive Match Plans for Employees (SIMPLEs). These vehicles
- [Can You Spot the Scam? Common Financial Fraud Warning Signs](https://417wealth.com/can-you-spot-the-scam-common-financial-fraud-warning-signs/) - Many people are familiar with the scammers who promise to pay millions of dollars in exchange for briefly holding funds in your bank account or those who offer to enhance certain body parts risk-free. Today\'s scammers are clever at making their offers seem legitimate. How can you spot scams before they happen? We discuss the
- [Helping Elders Manage Their Assets](https://417wealth.com/helping-elders-manage-their-assets/) - Today, many individuals are finding it necessary to help elderly parents or relatives manage their personal finances. One area of particular concern is property management. This issue may arise when seniors reach their late seventies or older, and plans that may have proven satisfactory at age 65 may require a second look. If you have
- [Understanding the Estate  Planning Process](https://417wealth.com/understanding-the-estate-planning-process/) - It is common for people to put off planning their estates. After all, no one wants to anticipate his or her own death. In addition, many people may believe that only the wealthy require estate planning or that all that is involved is tax planning, which can be done “later.” They may well be wrong
- [Real Estate Cyber-Security and Fraud Prevention](https://417wealth.com/real-estate-cyber-security-and-fraud-prevention/) - According to statistics from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), real estate is the second most targeted industry for cyber-attacks. The FBI reported almost $150 million in real-estate-related fraud in 2018, with scams aimed at the industry rising more than 1,000 percent since 2015. Because of the sheer size of the real estate landscape, the
- [Life Insurance](https://417wealth.com/life-insurance/) - Protection for All Life’s Stages As your life changes, your financial needs often change, as well. Regardless of whether you are just starting out in life, are in mid-career, or are at the peak of your earning years, life insurance can help you achieve a variety of financial goals. The following scenarios help illustrate some
- [Coping with the Loss of a Spouse Checklist](https://417wealth.com/coping-with-the-loss-of-a-spouse-checklist/) - Losing one\'s significant other is one of the most stressful of all possible losses, even if you\'ve had some time to emotionally prepare for it. And while it can be tough to do more than put one foot in front of the other, losing a spouse can also bring financial changes into your life. Below,
- [Grant Peace of Mind with a Financial Inventory](https://417wealth.com/grant-peace-of-mind-with-a-financial-inventory/) - Suppose, during the middle of the workday, you receive an urgent phone call. It is the local hospital informing you that your elderly, widowed father has been the victim of a serious car accident and lies unconscious in the emergency room. When you arrive at the hospital, you are asked, among other information, for the
- [Investing After the Death of a Spouse](https://417wealth.com/investing-after-the-death-of-a-spouse/) - The death of a spouse is one of the most traumatic experiences a person can endure.1 Adding financial stresses at such a delicate time can only make matters worse—and your emotional recovery harder. Learn more about what to keep in mind while navigating your financial future as a widow or widower. Don\'t Make Major Changes Right
- [How Are Workers Preparing for Retirement?](https://417wealth.com/how-are-workers-preparing-for-retirement/) - In general, workers seem to begin preparing for retirement almost as soon as they get their first job. However, according to the 2021 Retirement Confidence Survey by the Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI), retirement preparations do vary a bit by age group. Retirement Preparations Nearly three-quarters (72%) of workers say that they or their spouse
- [Workers Want to Stay Put in Home Office](https://417wealth.com/workers-want-to-stay-put-in-home-office/) - In a survey by job listings site Flexjobs, an astonishing 65 percent of pandemic remote workers said they wanted to keep working from home and 58 percent even said they would look for a new job if they would have to return to the office. Only 2 percent said they would prefer to return, while
- [Inheritance Planning Can Help Avoid Headaches](https://417wealth.com/inheritance-planning-can-help-avoid-headaches/) - Your financial professional can help ensure you leave your estate in the best possible way Families inherit money and sometimes make the right moves investing and spending. Inheritances can also ignite disruption, divorce and a host of bad behavior far from the hopes and plans of the benefactor. What happens when you leave what’s
- [What to Know About Investing After Marriage](https://417wealth.com/what-to-know-about-investing-after-marriage/) - Getting married can be one of the most momentous occasions in one\'s life—and, for many, having two people working toward a common financial goal can also be the key to helping secure your financial future. If you and your spouse are on the same page when it comes to investing, you\'re already a step ahead
- [Donor-Advised Funds: A Solution to Gifting with Tax Benefits](https://417wealth.com/donor-advised-funds-a-solution-to-gifting-with-tax-benefits/) - Gifting, for many investors, is about the philanthropic support they want to give charities. Gifting to help make the world better by benefitting society is one reason many families choose to donate. The charitable giving tax deduction they received in the past was a bonus. The above-the-line deduction for charitable giving is $300 per calendar
- [High Net-Worth Individuals: Are You Missing Opportunities in Your Financial Planning?](https://417wealth.com/high-net-worth-individuals-are-you-missing-opportunities-in-your-financial-planning/) - High Net-Worth executives and those that have been self-employed, can experience common problems in their financial planning journey. Often, they have missed opportunities in their financial planning because they haven’t planned adequately for their retirement even though they make a high income. It’s easy to think that everything will work out with their retirement plan,
- [Dreaming of Owning a Second Home?](https://417wealth.com/dreaming-of-owning-a-second-home/) - The start of summer brings aspirations of owning that special spot Summer is here and with it are fanciful dreams of owning a second, seasonal home. Maybe it’s a beachside bungalow or a mountain cabin or a lakefront cottage with a front porch and a sweeping view of the sunlight on the water. All of
- [529 Savings Plans vs. Prepaid Tuition Plans](https://417wealth.com/529-savings-plans-vs-prepaid-tuition-plans/) - Section 529 plans are popular education savings vehicles. To choose the type of 529 plan that\'s right for you, it\'s important to understand how 529 savings plans and 529 prepaid tuition plans work and the differences between them. Who can offer each type of plan? At one time, only states could offer 529 savings plans
- [5 Types of Retirement Plans for Small Business Owners](https://417wealth.com/5-types-of-retirement-plans-for-small-business-owners/) - Small business owners are different from the average hourly employee in a lot of ways. One often-overlooked difference is how they plan for retirement. Although small business owners may offer a classic 401(k) for their workers along with other benefits such as insurance and other perks, such a plan may not be the right option
- [Adding a Personal Backup With a Living Trust](https://417wealth.com/adding-a-personal-backup-with-a-living-trust/) - The managers of well-run businesses usually name \"backups\" to keep things going smoothly -- just in case. That\'s also a smart plan for your personal finances, where you risk experiencing financial losses or other difficulties if you can\'t make your own decisions because of a long illness or other unexpected problem. You might prepare for
- [Our National Debt and Gross Domestic Product](https://417wealth.com/our-national-debt-and-gross-domestic-product/) - Should you worry that debt relative to GDP is rising fast here and globally? You hear a lot of worrying about mounting government debt because many people are convinced that public debt is a main source of problems for any economy. And currently the debt ceiling limit – the legislative limit on the amount
- [Key Considerations as You Start Receiving Social Security Benefits](https://417wealth.com/key-considerations-as-you-start-receiving-social-security-benefits/) - As your retirement draws closer, you will probably start to have lots of questions such as: How much Social Security will I receive? When should I retire? How will I know when to retire? Do I have enough saved? What will I need to do to maintain health insurance after I retire? The answers to
- [How to Increase Your Financial Literacy](https://417wealth.com/how-to-increase-your-financial-literacy/) - Unlike verbal literacy, financial literacy isn\'t often taught in schools—which means that many people may enter adulthood without having all the tools they need to make informed and effective financial decisions.1 Fortunately, gaining financial literacy doesn\'t need to be a long or complicated process. Read on for three simple things you can do to work
- [Retirement Planning: To Roth or Not to Roth?](https://417wealth.com/retirement-planning-to-roth-or-not-to-roth/) - When saving for retirement, it often makes sense to contribute to employer-sponsored retirement plans to take advantage of any available employer match opportunities. However, not everyone has access to an employer-sponsored plan. Even if you do, there are reasons you may want to consider using Traditional and/or Roth IRAs to supplement your retirement savings. There
- [The 3 Components of Social Security](https://417wealth.com/the-3-components-of-social-security/) - Many have heard Social Security retirement benefits referred to as part of the \"three-legged stool\" of retirement: Social Security, a pension or defined benefit plan, and personal savings.1 The idea is that with these three sources of income, a retiree can ensure several steady streams of income without relying too heavily on just one \"leg.\"
- [All online, all the time? Technology brings new benefits to hiring a property manager.](https://417wealth.com/all-online-all-the-time-technology-brings-new-benefits-to-hiring-a-property-manager/) - Once upon a time, investing in the stock market involved ticker tape and a lot of phone calls. Today, most investors reach no further than their pocket for up-to-the-minute market updates, portfolio valuations, trading capabilities, and analytics. The property management industry is only now beginning to complete a similar transition, and many real estate investors
- [How Financial Asset Management May Help Investors Stay the Course](https://417wealth.com/how-financial-asset-management-may-help-investors-stay-the-course/) - Most people who decide to purchase stocks, bonds, mutual funds, or other investment vehicles do so understanding that there are risks associated with investing, but believing that the potential growth they may realize over time outweighs such risks. However, because there are no guarantees, investing assets can be a nerve-wracking experience – especially during periods
- [How Much Do You Know About Credit?](https://417wealth.com/how-much-do-you-know-about-credit/) - In 2020, the average FICO score in the U.S. rose to 711, an eight-point increase from 2019.1 When it comes to having healthy credit, your score is the result of many factors. But what specifically goes into someone\'s credit report, and what steps can you take to improve your credit?1 Test your credit knowledge with
- [Re-thinking Your Bucket List](https://417wealth.com/re-thinking-your-bucket-list/) - When approaching the latter part of life, it is easy to get caught up in achieving every goal on your bucket list. Individual lists vary widely, but often are filled with wild adventures like skydiving and scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef. Bucket list items are the things one plans to do their entire
- [Your Retirement Planning: “Too Big to Fail”](https://417wealth.com/your-retirement-planning-too-big-to-fail/) - Five common retirement planning misperceptions and how to avoid Many of us remember the phrase “too big to fail” from the 2008 financial crisis and cringe now that its use has been resurrected during the coronavirus pandemic. Others remember that the term was also used in 1984 by U.S. Congressman Stewart McKinney when he
- [Assessing Your Retirement Resources](https://417wealth.com/assessing-your-retirement-resources/) - How resourceful can you be during your retirement? Determining where your retirement money will come from is an integral part of planning for retirement. Most people draw on three main sources of income: Social Security, employer-sponsored plans, and personal retirement savings. Each offers important resources that can help you fund the lifestyle you seek in
- [Optimizing Required Minimum Distributions](https://417wealth.com/optimizing-required-minimum-distributions/) - Seventy-two is an important age milestone for those in or near retirement, as it marks the time when required minimum distributions (RMDs) begin to be withdrawn annually from IRAs and employer-sponsored retirement plans (previously, the threshold was 70 ½). The milestone carries with it tax consequences that are not fixed. Rather, there are a few
- [Tips for Tax Preparation](https://417wealth.com/tips-for-tax-preparation/) - In 2020, the government gave taxpayers an automatic six-month extension due to the coronavirus. Individuals who were affected by the damaging wildfires were also given additional time to meet most tax deadlines. However, in 2021, the deadline for submitting your income tax return is likely to return to the regularly scheduled time slot on April
- [Tips for Organizing Your Financial Documents](https://417wealth.com/tips-for-organizing-your-financial-documents/) - In an increasingly paper-free society, organizing your financial documents can still be a challenge. No matter how simple or complex your financial picture might be, it takes some thought-out organization to keep your tax documents, service records, and paid bills in a format that will allow you to easily access information when you need it.
- [Capital Gains for the 2020 Season Could be Huge](https://417wealth.com/capital-gains-for-the-2020-season-could-be-huge/) - This year looks to be a record year for capital gain distributions When an investor sells a stock for more than the purchase price, the investor experiences a capital gain (it is simpler to call it a profit, but let’s stick to some technical terms for a minute). For example, if you bought Amazon
- [New Year\'s Resolutions to Get Your Finances in Order](https://417wealth.com/new-years-resolutions-to-get-your-finances-in-order/) - New Year\'s is traditionally the time to review your life and make resolutions for change. In addition to thinking about working out, eating healthy, and meeting personal and professional goals, you should also think about your finances. To make the most of the New Year, keep the following tips in mind. 1. Outline New Goals
- [How to Structure Charitable Giving Throughout Your Lifetime](https://417wealth.com/how-to-structure-charitable-giving-throughout-your-lifetime/) - Charitable giving is a way for affluent individuals spread their money around and to benefit causes that are near and dear to their hearts. Yet, for those who fall into the high net worth category, it is critical to structure charitable giving correctly so that you will reap the tax benefits while making the greatest
- [Charitable Giving and Donating Toys](https://417wealth.com/charitable-giving-and-donating-toys/) - As the holidays approach, many children start to make wish lists, but unfortunately, not all children have someone to give them gifts. Luckily, there are many charities that help get holiday gifts and joy to children. If you\'re thinking about donating toys this holiday season, here is what you need to know. Charities That Accept
- [Contributing to a Charity When You Have More Time Than Money to Give](https://417wealth.com/contributing-to-a-charity-when-you-have-more-time-than-money-to-give/) - If giving to charity is important to you but you have more time than money, you may wonder whether your donation of manpower will be as valuable as cash. For many charities, the answer is an unequivocal yes. Below are some tips and tricks that can help you optimize your charitable giving through volunteer work.
- [How to Evaluate a Charity and Whether to Donate](https://417wealth.com/how-to-evaluate-a-charity-and-whether-to-donate/) - Responsible giving doesn\'t only involve making sure to help those in need, but also ensuring that you perform your proper research by evaluating the charity. Proper evaluation will help you to make sure that your funds are being used in the way you wish them to be and can help you leave the impact you
- [Benefits of HSA and FSA Accounts](https://417wealth.com/benefits-of-hsa-and-fsa-accounts/) - Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA) are designed to help you save money on medical costs by giving you access to a special savings account with tax benefits. Although these plans are very similar, they have a few differences. For instance, employees and self-employed people can both open HSA plans, while only
- [End of Year Planning: Set Goals and Reduce Taxes](https://417wealth.com/end-of-year-planning-set-goals-and-reduce-taxes/) - By the last third of the calendar year, you\'re likely to have a pretty good idea of what your annual income will be and whether any major expenses or big life changes await you. This can allow you to engage in more robust tax planning, creating the first draft of your federal and state income
- [Prepare for Long-Term Care Before the Need](https://417wealth.com/prepare-for-long-term-care-before-the-need/) - Despite the dollars, fears and emotions – you can manage with planning Long-term care (LTC) keeps you functioning in the face of devastating illnesses, disabilities and prolonged disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. LTC kicks in when you lose the ability to care for yourself and can no longer do things such as bathe, dress
- [Ranking the Best and Worst Presidents](https://417wealth.com/ranking-the-best-and-worst-presidents/) - Creating a new Mount Rushmore based on the performance of Wall Stree Every four years, Washington D.C. and Wall Street converge as Americans elect a president and Wall Street tries to figure out what the outcome means for the stock and bond markets. And since so many hypotheses on this topic abound, it’s hard
- [What Gen Xers, Millennials, and Baby Boomers Need to Know About Financial Planning?](https://417wealth.com/what-gen-xers-millennials-and-baby-boomers-need-to-know-about-financial-planning/) - Financial planning is an important part of securing your current lifestyle as well as preparing yourself for what you wish to do in your eventual retirement. And while this importance may look different during each stage of your life, it doesn\'t make it any less important. Whether you call yourself a baby boomer, hail from the Gen
- [Estate planning for your digital assets](https://417wealth.com/estate-planning-for-your-digital-assets/) - What will happen to your Facebook account when you die? What about all your photos shared on social media, your texts with loved ones, or documents on cloud-storage systems? In just the two-year period from 2012 to 2014, humans produced more data than in all of human civilization before that – and the pace is
- [What to Do If You\'re Working From Home Longer Than Expected](https://417wealth.com/what-to-do-if-youre-working-from-home-longer-than-expected/) - As the threat of the coronavirus swept through the nation in March, many businesses sent their workers home, and now, as fall looms around the corner, many people are continuing to work from home. If you\'re working home longer than expected, you are not alone. Want to make the best of this new situation?
- [5 Critical Financial Strategies for Physicians](https://417wealth.com/5-critical-financial-strategies-for-physicians/) - As a physician, you understand your medical specialty inside and out, but at the same time, you also need to be able to handle the financial challenges associated with your industry. That may include juggling a lot of student and professional debt, running your own clinic, saving for the future, and creating contingency plans for
- [Year-End Tax Planning](https://417wealth.com/year-end-tax-planning/) - As the end of the year approaches, it\'s time to consider strategies that could help you reduce your tax bill. But most tax tips, suggestions, and strategies are of little practical help without a good understanding of your current tax situation. This is particularly true for year-end planning. You can\'t know where to go next
- [How to Protect Your Wealth as You Get Older](https://417wealth.com/how-to-protect-your-wealth-as-you-get-older/) - As you get older and closer to retirement, your financial practices need to shift slightly as you transition from working and saving to relying on your nest egg. As you approach this stage of your life, you need to take steps to protect your wealth. Keep these tips in mind. Shift Toward More Conservative
- [Smart Investing to Reduce the Bite of Taxes](https://417wealth.com/smart-investing-to-reduce-the-bite-of-taxes/) - Three things to look for when buying an index fund or ETF As tax season comes to a close, you realize exactly how much you paid in taxes and naturally will ask the question, “what can I do to reduce my taxes next year?” The very short and simple answer to this question is
- [National Life Insurance Awareness Month](https://417wealth.com/national-life-insurance-awareness-month/) - Should you really consider getting life insurance when you are close to 60? September is National Life Insurance Awareness month. And while most of us likely recognize that life insurance provides us peace of mind and security, there may be a few things you don’t know. Life Insurance is Not Just for the Young
- [A Checklist for Your Retirement Planning](https://417wealth.com/a-checklist-for-your-retirement-planning/) - Remember, it is never too early to start planning for your future The time to begin planning for your financial future is now. So, when it comes to preparing for retirement, the earlier you start, the better. Here are some steps to help you achieve your overall objectives: Review your current financial situation by assessing
- [3 Mistakes to Avoid Before Taking Required Minimum Distributions](https://417wealth.com/3-mistakes-to-avoid-before-taking-required-minimum-distributions/) - Uncle Sam wants your money. He has bills to pay, just like you. And he\'s been waiting patiently for decades for you to hand over his share of your tax-deferred retirement dollars. He expects some folks to be stubborn about it, so he has an answer. It\'s called a required minimum distribution (RMD), and savers
- [Back to School: Getting Your Financial House in Order](https://417wealth.com/back-to-school-getting-your-financial-house-in-order/) - The abrupt end to the 2019-2020 school year in many parts of the U.S. left parents and students alike struggling to establish healthy routines. As many students prepare to head back to the classroom (or the remote classroom) this fall, what steps can parents take now to get their houses in order? Learn how dependent
- [Maximize Your Summer Fun With These Ideas](https://417wealth.com/maximize-your-summer-fun-with-these-ideas/) - As temperatures start to heat up and the days get longer, summer fun can kick into gear. Looking for things to do this summer? Then, check out this list of fun and relaxing summertime ideas. Be a tourist in your own area You don\'t have to leave town to feel like you\'re on vacation.
- [How to Save for Retirement and Avoid Overspending During Your Career](https://417wealth.com/how-to-save-for-retirement-and-avoid-overspending-during-your-career/) - You know you want to enjoy your retirement, but getting to that point can feel difficult. Worried that you\'re not saving enough? Trying to get your spending under control? These problems are common for many people who are trying to build their nest egg while balancing their budget, but these tips can steer you in
- [What It\'s Like To Send a Child to College](https://417wealth.com/what-its-like-to-send-a-child-to-college/) - Sending a child to college for the first time can be a stressful transition for any parent. Even though your child is legally an adult (or almost an adult) by the time they head out on their own, a parent\'s worries about health, safety, and happiness don\'t end at their child\'s 18th birthday, and sending one\'s
- [How to Make Savings Last Longer in Retirement](https://417wealth.com/how-to-make-savings-last-longer-in-retirement/) - Whether you dream of a travel-filled retirement or would prefer to relax and enjoy spending more time at home, you\'re probably wondering what you can do to make your golden years as stress-free as possible. For many who have spent the last several decades in wealth-accumulation mode, withdrawing savings can trigger anxieties about the future. Some
- [Paying for College and the Impact of COVID-19](https://417wealth.com/paying-for-college-and-the-impact-of-covid-19/) - With the coronavirus shutting done educational institutions and moving classes online, the face of education across the country has changed. While the focus has been primarily on completing the educational requirements to get K through 12 students through the end of the year, colleges and universities have been particularly hard hit as well. Not only
- [Three Things to Know Before Buying a Home](https://417wealth.com/three-things-to-know-before-buying-a-home/) - Whether you\'re a first-time home buyer or are re-entering the real estate market after a hiatus, it\'s important to educate yourself on the most up-to-date tips and tricks for purchasing a home. Doing so can help save you thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars on what is likely to be one of the biggest
- [Healthcare Workers: How to Keep Your Head Up During Scary Times](https://417wealth.com/healthcare-workers-how-to-keep-your-head-up-during-scary-times/) - Being a healthcare worker can be a stressful and tiring job at the best of times, but in the face of vast uncertainty and fear around the coronavirus, this profession has become even harder. If you are a healthcare worker on the front lines of the coronavirus, you are bravely dealing with an unprecedented situation
- [Three Tips to Help You Save for Your First Home](https://417wealth.com/three-tips-to-help-you-save-for-your-first-home/) - Although the COVID-19 pandemic has put somewhat of a damper on the Spring 2020 homebuying season, many prospective buyers can take advantage of a slower market and lower interest rates to snap up the perfect property. But before you begin shopping in earnest, there are a few steps you should take to accelerate your savings rate
- [Navigating the Path to Homeownership After COVID-19](https://417wealth.com/navigating-the-path-to-homeownership-after-covid-19/) - The arrival of spring flowers often means one thing — the home-buying season is here. But with the COVID-19 pandemic in full swing in early March 2020 and many parts of the U.S. still under shelter-in-place orders through Memorial Day, this year\'s home-buying season is anything but business as usual. How will this pandemic affect
- [Amidst Stay-At-Home, Learn Money Mindfulness](https://417wealth.com/amidst-stay-at-home-learn-money-mindfulness/) - Using money to enhance your life and the lives of those around you Money matters are complex and even scary. How you choose to approach finances mentally is key to mastering them. Financial professionals call this “money mindfulness.” And it’s a mentality that can be worked on while we’re following the current “stay-at-home” orders of
- [Funding a Business](https://417wealth.com/funding-a-business/) - You\'ve written your business plan, you\'re excited about your business idea, and now it\'s time to get started. One problem: You don\'t have the financing to fully realize your dream. What are your options? Aside from using your own funds and borrowing from friends and family, there are numerous routes that you can take, and
- [Retirement Plans for Small Businesses](https://417wealth.com/retirement-plans-for-small-businesses/) - If you are self-employed or own a small business and you haven\'t established a retirement savings plan, what are you waiting for? A retirement plan can help you and your employees save for the future. Tax advantages A retirement plan can have significant tax advantages: Your contributions are deductible when made Your contributions aren\'t taxed
- [Happy Nurses Week: A Look at Nursing in the Time of the Coronavirus](https://417wealth.com/happy-nurses-week-a-look-at-nursing-in-the-time-of-the-coronavirus/) - Nurses have always been heroes, tirelessly taking care of others while often putting their own health at risk. However, while dealing with the coronavirus, their role has become even more significant. Nurses are on the front lines of the fight against the coronavirus, and for their selfless efforts, these professionals deserve a lot of praise
- [2020 CARES ACT Small Business Employer FAQ – Key Provisions](https://417wealth.com/2020-cares-act-small-business-employer-faq-key-provisions-2/) - During this stressful and uncertain time, I am here to help you with understanding all the new resources and financial assistance available for small businesses, as well as certain non-profits and other employers. The following FAQ provides information about the major programs and initiatives available from the Small Business Administration (SBA) to address needs your
- [Balancing Working from Home and E-Learning: A Parent\'s Guide](https://417wealth.com/balancing-working-from-home-and-e-learning-a-parents-guide/) - If the coronavirus crisis has led you to recently join the more than 5 million U.S. workers who work from home, you may still be settling into a routine.1 Adding homeschooling (or e-learning) into the mix can introduce additional complications. Fortunately, there are some tried and true tips from parents who have already spent years juggling working from
- [The April 15th Tax Deadline is Now July 15th: You don’t need to file by April 15th and you should think about the benefits](https://417wealth.com/the-april-15th-tax-deadline-is-now-july-15th-you-dont-need-to-file-by-april-15th-and-you-should-think-about-the-benefits/) - The U.S. Department of the Treasury is delaying the April 15th deadline to file and pay taxes by 90 days, giving individuals and businesses another 3 months to file and then pay the government what they owe. What Should You Do? Putting off paying taxes until right before the deadline is human nature. In fact,
- [Tax Strategies for Retirees](https://417wealth.com/tax-strategies-for-retirees/) - Nothing in life is certain except death and taxes. -- Benjamin Franklin That saying still rings true roughly 300 years after the former statesman coined it. Yet, by formulating a tax-efficient investment and distribution strategy, retirees may keep more of their hard-earned assets for themselves and their heirs. Here are a few suggestions for effective money
- [Why Do Less than Half of Us Get the Flu Shot?](https://417wealth.com/why-do-less-than-half-of-us-get-the-flu-shot/) - It is almost impossible to predict when, how severe or for how long flu season will be from one year to the next. But the Center for Disease control (CDC) has estimated that the economic impact of the flu is a staggering $87 billion each year, including: $16.3 billion in loss of earnings $10.4 billion
- [2020 CARES ACT Small Business Employer FAQ – Key Provisions](https://417wealth.com/2020-cares-act-small-business-employer-faq-key-provisions/) - During this stressful and uncertain time, I am here to help you with understanding all the new resources and financial assistance available for small businesses, as well as certain non-profits and other employers. The following FAQ provides information about the major programs and initiatives available from the Small Business Administration (SBA) to address needs your
- [Retirement Assistance Within the CARES Act](https://417wealth.com/retirement-assistance-within-the-cares-act/) - In late March 2020, as the number of novel coronavirus cases in the U.S. surged past 100,000, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was passed into law.1 The CARES Act provides around $2.2 trillion in aid to businesses and individuals who have been impacted by shelter-in-place orders, government-mandated business closures, and large-scale job losses.
- [A Letter to Clients](https://417wealth.com/a-letter-to-clients/) - April 2, 2020 Dear Valued Investor: “Every decade or so, dark clouds will fill the economic skies, and they will briefly rain gold. When downpours of that sort occur, reach for a bucket.” —Warren Buffett The battle with COVID-19 rages on, and the headlines continue to get worse. The number of new cases and deaths
- [Put Savings (and Yourself) First with a Budget](https://417wealth.com/put-savings-and-yourself-first-with-a-budget/) - Americans, it seems, are spenders. Personal savings rates are low and many people spend beyond their means. If you\'re among those Americans who can\'t seem to save, it might be time to create a budget. A budget allows you to understand where the money goes and may help you free up cash for important savings
- [The Basics of Long-Term Care Insurance](https://417wealth.com/the-basics-of-long-term-care-insurance/) - Thinking about the need and the costs of long-term care is enough to make anyone uncomfortable. But while it\'s a difficult subject to talk about, it\'s also a topic that often generates lots of questions and misunderstanding. Consider this: The median cost of a semi-private room in a nursing home now exceeds $85,000 per year,
- [Buying Life Insurance: What Kind and How Much?](https://417wealth.com/buying-life-insurance-what-kind-and-how-much/) - Conventional wisdom says that life insurance is sold, not purchased. In other words, some people are reluctant to discuss the importance of owning life insurance, and others are simply unaware of the need to have life insurance. Although many large companies provide life insurance as part of their benefits package, this coverage may be insufficient.
- [Tips for Managing Debt and Credit](https://417wealth.com/tips-for-managing-debt-and-credit/) - Credit was once defined as \"Man\'s Confidence in Man.\" But in fact, the definition of credit today is more like \"Man\'s Confidence in Himself.\" Using credit today means you have confidence in your future ability to pay that debt. Forty years ago, your parents may have paid cash for their homes and their cars, a
- [Medical Professionals: A Prescription for Your Financial Health](https://417wealth.com/medical-professionals-a-prescription-for-your-financial-health/) - The demands on medical practitioners today can seem overwhelming. It\'s no secret that health-care delivery is changing, and those changes are reflected in the financial issues that health-care professionals face every day. You must continually educate yourself about new research in your chosen specialty, stay current on the latest technology that is transforming health care,
- [Key Estate Planning Documents You Need](https://417wealth.com/key-estate-planning-documents-you-need/) - There are five estate planning documents you may need, regardless of your age, health, or wealth: Durable power of attorney Advance medical directives Will Letter of instruction Living trust The last document, a living trust, isn\'t always necessary, but it\'s included here because it\'s a vital component of many estate plans. Durable power of attorney
- [To-Do Item for 2020: Beneficiary Reviews for Current Clients](https://417wealth.com/to-do-item-for-2020-beneficiary-reviews-for-current-clients/) - Many clients may fastidiously plan the path they want their assets to take, but not give their beneficiary information the attention it needs and deserves. Designating the best beneficiaries is essential for proper asset planning, and investors should periodically re-visit this information to make certain it still meets their needs. It\'s not the most pleasant conversation topic,
- [Taking Advantage of Employer-Sponsored Retirement Plans](https://417wealth.com/taking-advantage-of-employer-sponsored-retirement-plans/) - Employer-sponsored qualified retirement plans such as 401(k)s are some of the most powerful retirement savings tools available. If your employer offers such a plan and you\'re not participating in it, you should be. Once you\'re participating in a plan, try to take full advantage of it. Understand your employer-sponsored plan Before you can take advantage
- [Estate Planning Checklist](https://417wealth.com/estate-planning-checklist/) - One of the first steps you’ll take in the estate planning process is determining how much planning you’ll need to undertake. Two key components of your initial needs evaluation are an estate analysis and a settlement cost analysis. The estate analysis includes an in-depth review of your present estate-settlement arrangements. This estate analysis will also
- [Investing for Major Financial Goals](https://417wealth.com/investing-for-major-financial-goals/) - Go out into your yard and dig a big hole. Every month, throw $50 into it, but don\'t take any money out until you\'re ready to buy a house, send your child to college, or retire. It sounds a little crazy, doesn\'t it? But that\'s what investing without setting clear-cut goals is like. If you\'re
- [Six Tips To Take Control of Your Financial Health](https://417wealth.com/six-tips-to-take-control-of-your-financial-health/) - Similar to taking care of your personal health by proactively incorporating healthy habits and annual checkups, you can also take control of your financial health when you are proactive and engaged in managing your finances. And also like your physical and mental health, your financial health requires an ongoing commitment and focus in order to
- [Avoid These Financial Traps -- They May Be Hazardous to Your Wealth](https://417wealth.com/avoid-these-financial-traps-they-may-be-hazardous-to-your-wealth/) - Money. It\'s hard to get and easy to lose. It doesn\'t take long for the wealth you\'ve accumulated to disappear if you don\'t manage your money well or have a plan to protect your assets from sudden calamity. Snares like the ones mentioned below could easily threaten your financial security. Planning ahead can protect you
- [How Grandparents Can Help Grandchildren with College Costs](https://417wealth.com/how-grandparents-can-help-grandchildren-with-college-costs/) - As the cost of a college education continues to climb, many grandparents are stepping in to help. This trend is expected to accelerate as baby boomers, many of whom went to college, become grandparents and start gifting what\'s predicted to be trillions of dollars over the coming decades. Helping to pay for a grandchild\'s college
- [Most Donors Make Small  Charitable Gifts](https://417wealth.com/most-donors-make-small-charitable-gifts/) - The average donor household in the United States gives around $2,000 a year, with small donations making up the bulk of charitable gifts, according to a report prepared by the Center on Philanthropy for Indiana University. The study was based on an analysis of the results of a survey sponsored by American Express, in which

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