Perspectives from the Path
2022 End of Year Wealth Planning
There are many planning strategies you can take before the year ends to help potentially reduce your 2022 tax liability and maximize your financial plan as we move into 2023. Most investment-related strategies must be complete by December 31, 2022, so it is important to act now.
8 Myths About 529 Plans
529 College Savings Plans are a popular way to provide for your child’s college education. However, myths about these plans exist and prevent families from understanding the full value of this tool. If you’re seeking to be more prepared for your child’s college costs, don’t let these myths stop you.
Housing is Going Through the Roof!
With rising housing costs and rising mortgage rates, the overall cost of housing is increasing significantly. We found that from 2021 to 2022, the total cost of home ownership increased from 39% of gross household income to 46%! Before buying a new home, consider ALL the costs involved and how those have increased in the past year.
Download: 2021 Year-End Wealth Planning Guide
This 2021 end-of-year guide & checklist provides different strategies to consider to reduce your tax liability and maximize your financial plan. Download our free guide.
Creating Liquidity in Retirement Using Your HSA
HSAs carry a unique characteristic that can assist with portfolio decumulation efficiencies in retirement. If you save receipts, you can reimburse yourself from the HSA years later to access tax-free liquidity, in addition to the tax-deferred growth and tax-deductible contribution.
Priorities and Planning After the Loss of a Spouse
There is nothing that can prepare you for the grief of losing your spouse. There are many decisions to be made, but some can and should wait. Here are some helpful handholds to hang on to if you've recently been widowed or know someone who has.
Health Savings Accounts (HSAs): The Holy Grail of Investment Accounts?
If used properly, Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) can provide a tax deduction on the front-end, tax-deferred growth on earnings, and tax-free withdrawals when used on qualified expenses. With a notable increase in healthcare costs over recent years, HSAs may be a great tool for you to mitigate those costs in the future.
Medicare: How to Time it Right and Avoid Penalties
Are you nearing 65? It’s time to evaluate the coverage options and deadlines surrounding Medicare. We walk through some of the main considerations regarding timing, coverage, and avoiding penalties. Make sure you are informed for this next stage of life!
Summer is Here! Time to Plan!
With big changes in the markets and tax laws, this summer is a great time to reflect on the status of your estate and portfolio.
Getting a Head Start on College Planning with 529 Plans
College costs have increased about 1200% since 1980, making wise planning and saving crucial. Is a 529 Plan right for you and your college student?
2021 Tax Changes: What We Know Now (Updated)
Here's what we know now about 2021 tax changes - how can you optimize now?
For the 99.5% Act
Possible new estate tax changes introduced in the For the 99.5% Act by Senator Sanders make 2021 estate planning crucial. The government could become your biggest heir!
The American Rescue Plan
The American Rescue Plan is providing stimulus payments and other benefits to Americans. How are you and your taxes affected? Families with children and incomes in the $150,000 range should pay special attention.
Book Review: Your Money Made Simple by Russ Crosson
Finding balance is often a difficult thing. On the surface, it sounds so simple but within many areas of life, it can be very elusive. Take some time to think about how you can take those next steps to find contentment, confidence, and financial freedom with the resources under your care.
The Biden Tax Plan and You
The Biden Administration has proposed several tax law adjustments. With a Democratic sweep, we can expect many of these changes to take place. These include potential increased corporate tax rates, lowered estate tax exemptions, elimination of Step-Up in basis, capital gains tax rates, and more. Be watchful of changes and adjust your estate plan and investing goals accordingly. This could be one of the most important planning years ever!
Book Review: The Behavior Gap by Carl Richards
We are all limited by our own behavior that may not be rational. When we are aware of our tendencies and we have the right checks in place, we can implement the necessary measures to avoid making costly mistakes.
Barbell the Roths: How and When to Utilize Roth IRAs
If you're planning a Roth conversion or evaluating the tax implications of Roth contributions, consider the barbell strategy for your retirement planning.
Book Review: Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel
In The Psychology of Money, Housel cleverly describes what he sees as the biggest issues affecting investment success – our own psychology and human nature.
Top Lessons from 2020
2020 will certainly be remembered for many historical events. Here are 7 lessons that investors can learn from the year 2020.
2020 Year-End Planning Guide
How should you prep for 2021? Here's our guide for retirement, tax, and investment considerations as you consider 2020 year-end planning.