Blog
The Transition into Retirement: How to Shift from Paycheck to Portfolio Income
Transitioning into retirement means replacing the paycheck you’ve relied on for decades with income from Social Security, pensions, savings, and investments. Learn how thoughtful withdrawal and tax strategies can help create a reliable retirement paycheck while giving you greater confidence spending the money you’ve worked so hard to save.
Three Ways to Help Protect Yourself from Financial Scams
Financial scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, making them harder to recognize. Learn three practical steps to help protect your identity, financial accounts, and personal information from common scams.
Permanent Life Insurance: When Does It Make Sense?
Permanent life insurance can be a valuable planning tool, but it isn’t the right fit for everyone. From providing lifelong support for a loved one to creating estate liquidity or leaving a specific inheritance, there are situations where permanent coverage may make sense. Understanding the purpose, costs, and alternatives can help you determine whether it aligns with your financial goals.
College Funding & Student Loans After the OB3: What Parents and Students Should Know
Recent changes to federal student aid are reshaping how families save, borrow, and plan for college. From new loan limits and repayment options to changes in Pell Grants and expanded uses for 529 plans, understanding the new rules can help families make more informed decisions about paying for higher education.
To Roth or Not to Roth: When Does a Roth Conversion Make Sense?
Roth conversions are often promoted as a smart retirement tax strategy, but they aren’t right for everyone. Learn when a Roth conversion may help reduce lifetime taxes, when it could create costly unintended consequences, and the key factors to consider before deciding whether to convert.
Finding the Balance Between Enjoying Life Today and Saving for the Future
Saving for the future is essential, but so is enjoying the life you're building today. Learn why one of the most important financial planning decisions isn't just how much to save, it's knowing when you can confidently spend and make the most of the opportunities that matter most.
Selling a Home After Losing a Spouse: Understanding the Capital Gains Exclusion
Selling a home after the loss of a spouse can involve important tax considerations that many surviving spouses aren't aware of. Learn how the two-year capital gains exclusion, step-up in basis rules, and other key factors may help reduce taxes while you evaluate one of life's most significant financial decisions.
4 Signs You're Ready to Hire a Financial Advisor
As your financial life becomes more complex, having a coordinated strategy can become just as important as making individual financial decisions. This article explores the key signs it may be time to work with a financial planner and how comprehensive planning can help bring greater clarity, confidence, and coordination to your retirement and long-term financial goals.
Why Did I Have to Pay Back My Health Insurance Subsidy?
Many people are surprised to learn they have to repay part of their health insurance subsidy when filing taxes. Understanding how Get Covered Illinois calculates premium tax credits and how income changes affect your subsidy can help you avoid unexpected tax bills.