At times, bargaining power can play a major role for financial aid and college decisions. Too Rich for College Aid, Can’t Afford Full Price: How One Family Made It Work By Oyin Adedoyin, Aug. 22, 2025 This week, we’re bringing you stories about what it costs to raise a child in 2025, and how families… Continue reading →

Some positivity: 401(k) contributions are on the rise, edging closer to what financial planners recommend. Americans Are Finally Saving Almost What They’re Supposed to for Retirement By Anne Tergesen, June 4, 2025 How 401(k) Saving Compares to Standard Advice Workers are putting away a record share of their income for retirement. The average savings rate… Continue reading →

With the right strategies, stock market downturns can become opportunities to strengthen your financial plan. Three Financial Planning Strategies for When Markets Fall By Matthew Sommer, Ph.D. CFA®, May 1, 2025 The market volatility experienced in early April may have left some investors feeling a bit unnerved. While many tried-and-true strategies such as “stay the course”… Continue reading →

Thinking About College Costs? Here’s What You Should Know About 529 Plan Contributions in 2025.   529 Plan Contribution Limits for 2025 By Kathryn Pomroy, April 4, 2025 A 529 plan is a state-sponsored account that offers tax-advantaged savings to cover college, trade and vocational courses and qualified K-12 expenses. It can be a powerful… Continue reading →

  As a financial advisor, increasingly I find myself in a ticklish situation: Trying to convince people that taking an easy yield on cash is not a long-term investment strategy.  Here is what typically happens, in my experience. Imagine a couple in their early 60s. They have diligently saved for retirement.  As they approach the… Continue reading →

Medicare Made Simple? Not Quite: Decoding the Alphabet Soup to Maximize Your Coverage.   Medicare plan options are confusing. This book may help. By Michelle Singletary, November 22, 2024 For all its pluses, Medicare can be a hellish system that befuddles and frustrates so many beneficiaries. Medicare provides health insurance for millions of Americans 65… Continue reading →

Recently, rules have changed for 529 plans, and there is now a “Grandparent Loophole” that could be of benefit to you. What to Know About 529 Accounts Owned by Grandparents & the New FAFSA by Kathryn Flynn, February 19, 2024 529 plans are a popular way for grandparents to save for college and for good… Continue reading →

The “backdoor” Roth IRA presents a tantalizing solution for those keen on maximizing savings, offering tax-free growth and withdrawals. Read Laura Saunders’ article from the Wall Street Journal below to learn more. Backdoor Roth IRAs Are Promising — and Perilous by Laura Saunders, May 3, 2024 For determined savers, the backdoor Roth IRA is an… Continue reading →

Read this Barron’s article to learn why the 4% withdrawal rule for retirees is still relevant amidst changing markets. Discover strategies like adjusting withdrawal rates, optimizing asset allocation, and utilizing Roth conversions to make the most of your retirement savings. Does the 4% Withdrawal Rule for Retirees Still Make Sense? By Elizabeth O’Brien, February 9,… Continue reading →