Social Security: Myth Busters Edition No matter how many times some myths are debunked, we may still believe them. For example, cracking your knuckles causes arthritis (still possibly annoying but not true), humans swallow eight spiders a year in their sleep (gross and thankfully not true) and twinkies have no expiration date and would survive

You Got a Bonus – Now What? It’s finally time! You’ve worked hard all year, put in lots of hours, and now it’s time to receive your much deserved bonus. While it’s exciting seeing more money in your bank account, have you ever wondered “what do I do with it now?” If you’re like most

To Roth, or Not to Roth, That is the Question Summary: Traditional IRA contributions may be income tax deductible and have tax-deferred growth potential Roth IRA contributions are made after-tax and potentially grow tax free Your current and future income tax rates are a consideration when deciding between traditional and Roth IRA contributions When Shakespeare

2021 is Nearly Over. Are You Ready For 2022? If 2021 proved anything, it is that those who plan ahead are better able to handle the unexpected. Let’s review what you should consider doing now to prepare for the future. This year’s rollercoaster of events may have left you a little shell shocked. But your

Take Time to Reflect on the Financial Results from 2021 and Make a Plan for 2022 2021 has certainly been a year of financial highs and lows. No one can reliably predict short term moves in the market, but good financial planning can help prepare you for unforeseen setbacks. If you had a successful year,

First Time Homebuyer Programs First Time Homebuyer? – These Programs Are for You June 1, 2021  Do you fantasize about one day owning a home but don’t think you’ll ever be able to afford it? Do you wonder how you’ll ever come up with the down payment needed to purchase a home or how you’ll

Estate Planning Basics: Don’t Leave Your Estate in a “Purple Haze” Estate planning may be one of the last things that anyone wants to think about. Not only is it difficult to contemplate our mortality, but human beings may also have a natural tendency to procrastinate. The importance of proper estate planning can become clear

To Buy or Lease a Car? That is the Question Think about how many choices you make each day based on personal preference: shorts versus pants, tennis shoes versus sandals,  coffee versus tea. If only financial choices could be just as simple! One of the most common financial dilemmas people face is whether to buy

Having Kids? Financial Items to Consider You found the spouse of your dreams and got married. So now what?! For some, the next step is to have kids. While having children can be the greatest gift ever received, it is important to remember that they are expensive (especially when you have two at the same

Best Practices for Data Security One of my all-time favorite movies is Mel Brooks’ classic 1980’s Star Wars inspired spoof: “Spaceballs.” Other than being hilarious,  it can teach us some life lessons. For example, never underestimate the power of the Schwartz, buckle your seat belt before going to ludicrous speed, and absolutely do not hit