Tricks: (Don’t start doing these things – or stop if you already have). Borrowing more than necessary Confusing volatility with risk Mixing politics with your investment choices Assuming your 401k alone will provide you the lifestyle you desire when you repurpose your...
Open enrollments will begin for many companies in the coming weeks. In an effort to be prepared before your window opens, consider reviewing the following outline. This may allow you to organize your “insurance” choices in advance before your employer’s enrollment...
I wrote about teenagers & money, part one, here. This is a follow up on how to approach a conversation on money and spending with your teenager. Clearly, this is a different summer for many families. Teenagers who have jobs are fortunate and may turn to their...
In the market for a new car or truck? Perhaps you’re in the market for a used one? Over the past several months, a number of our clients have reached out for guidance on acquiring another vehicle for themselves or a family member. Often, questions surround this...
At some point in your life you’ve likely had to address a debt payment. It may have been after college graduation when those student loan payments began, or it may have been later in your professional career when you started paying-down grad school or law school...
I’m really looking forward to this holiday weekend and, believe it or not, the second half of the year. Where did the time go? This is a great time to review the status of your “financial house” and other life planning decisions that may have been pushed off. It’s...
Our 16-year-old started a paid internship this week which is some exciting news in our house. The opportunity to gain some experience and real-life responsibilities are priceless. Getting paid is the icing on the cake which my son (as all teenagers I would guess) is...
In our last post, we outlined the challenges that exist when planning for aging parents. We covered several points that may help you better prepare for opening a dialogue to ensure mom and dad’s financial choices are optimized. Here are some other conversation...
How do you assist aging parents with their financial decisions? It’s natural not to discuss money, or other financial matters, with family. This reluctance to share tends to increase with age, even though studies show our cognitive decision-making declines as we get...
Friday May 15th was to be “Bike to Work Day” here in Northern Virginia, DC, and Maryland. Unfortunately, it’s been cancelled but will be back, better than ever, next year (fingers crossed!). If you haven’t been outside on your bike lately, you’re really missing some...
529 plans were created as a way to save for future college education costs. There are various considerations when evaluating which 529 plan best suites your needs. One option allows for selecting a prepaid tuition plan that locks in today’s college tuition costs. ...
I’ve written a fair bit about planning, investing, and good financial behavior for mom and dad, but what about the kids? Here’s a list of ideas to share with your kids in an effort to grow their knowledge on the topic of money and investing. Pay your kids an...