Blog
The Roth IRA Five Year Rule
Michael Hollis breaks down the Roth IRA 5-Year Rule for both contributions and conversions. An understanding of this rule is imperative when preparing to take withdrawals in retirement.
My Plant List and Other Landscape Tips
I remember vividly how my planting design instructor waxed poetically about how the residential landscape can be an expression of how nature places trees, shrubs, and understory in its harmonious order. Sometimes, that’s easier said than done…
Ten Tips for Tax Filing
If you’re a DIY tax filer, you may be just getting started and feeling overwhelmed. Here’s ten tips for tax filing to guide you along the way…
Learning to File & Understand Your Tax Return
If you’re interested in a deep dive into filing your taxes, this post is for you. Michael Hollis will break down the 1040 form into seven subdivisions: Information About You, Income You Made, Deductions You Can Take, Taxes You Owe, Credits Applied to Your Bill, Payments You’ve Made, and the Refund Due or Balance Owed...
401k vs. Roth 401k: Which One Is Better?
Michael Hollis gives you some key considerations and ideas to optimize your retirement account withdrawals for a long, financially secure, and stress-free retirement.
A Reasonable & Wise Withdrawal Strategy
Michael Hollis gives you some key considerations and ideas to optimize your retirement account withdrawals for a long, financially secure, and stress-free retirement.
Taking a Mulligan on a Roth Contribution
Michael Hollis discusses what to know regarding retirement contributions and what you can do when.
Kickstart Your Little One’s College Savings
Michael Hollis explains the Illinois First Steps Program.
Insurance Policy Checkpoint – How to Ensure You’re Not Under or Over-Insured
The Dala Group asks our clients to send us their insurance declarations so we can help them maximize their transfer of risk and minimize their costs. We always want to ensure that your assets are protected from risks and that you are covered by the insurance you need, not the add-ons you don’t need.
Last Chance Retirement Account Savings
We’re getting to the end of the year. Have you met your retirement savings goals?
Creating a Holiday Spending Plan that Doesn’t Derail Your Retirement Savings Goals
Holiday spending doesn’t have to derail your retirement savings. You can avoid typical pitfalls by returning to your values and goals. By focusing on what truly matters, setting clear financial objectives, and communicating honestly with loved ones, you can enjoy the holiday season without sacrificing your long-term financial security. The Dala Group would love to partner with you on your journey!
5 Engaging Winter Family Activities in the Chicago Area Without Breaking the Bank
Discover five fun and budget-friendly winter activities for families in the Chicago area. Our article offers engaging ideas to help you make the most of the season without overspending.
Passing the Torch – Four Elements for Creating Your Legacy
In the next two decades, a whopping $68 TRILLION is set to pass from the baby boomer crowd to us millennials. That’s a truckload of cash, folks! If you’re wondering how to ensure your hard-earned assets go where you want them to, you’re in the right place. I’m here to equip you with the lingo and insights to kickstart your game plan. It’s not just about shifting wealth; it’s about transmitting your values and vision to the next-gen – and it’s all done with love.
What the 2024 HSA Limit Increase Means for You and Your Finances
Rising inflation costs have triggered the IRS to announce one of the most significant jumps in the maximum contribution employees can make to their Health Savings Accounts (HSA) in 2024. This is an excellent opportunity to review HSAs, why they benefit financial and retirement planning, and how you can maximize their effectiveness.
Maximize Your Employee Benefits – Five Ways To Sail Through Open Enrollment
Michael Hollis gives you five practical tips for maximizing your employee benefits and confidently navigating open enrollment.
How Can Pre-Retirees Avoid Money Pitfalls as They Near Retirement?
When I develop these articles, I research, brainstorm, and write an outline. For this one, I could have gone on and on and on. I could write a whole book on the potential pitfalls that arise as we near retirement.
Are You Worried About Adjusting to a New Routine in Retirement? Here are 5 Ways to Help Avoid Loneliness and Social Isolation
A knee-jerk reaction to spending money on something big can be put in check as you think about the long-term impact of the large purchase and your financial plan.
Rethinking Large Purchase Decisions
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of big purchases, whether it’s a new car or your dream home. But if these purchases eat up too much of your budget, they can keep you from reaching long-term goals like debt freedom or saving for college.