Blog
Continuing Care Retirement Communities: What They Cost, How They Work, and When to Start Preparing
Why Is This Conversation So Important Right Now? The U.S. is in the middle of a sustained demographic shift. More than 61 million adults are aged 65 and older as of 2025, and that number is projected to reach approximately 82 million...
Read MoreWhen Should I Start Taking Social Security: 5 Factors to Consider
Social Security decisions are often framed as a single question: “When should I start drawing benefits?” That question matters, but it can also be limiting. The better question is: how does Social Security fit into my overall...
Read MoreTeaching Teens and Young Adults Financial Literacy Through Real-Life Decision Making
If you are a parent of a teen or young adult, how do you teach them to make confident money decisions before the stakes are high? Teaching teens and young adults about money is less about formal instruction and more about repeated...
Read MoreHelping Adult Children Buy a Home: How to Gift a Down Payment The Smart Way
Key TakeawaysHere are some questions this blog aims to answer:How can parents or grandparents help with a down payment for adult children?What are ways to gift a down payment, and how do the annual gift tax exclusion and lifetime...
Read MoreExit Planning 101: A Simple Roadmap for Small Business Owners
If you’re like most business owners, you’ve probably had at least one moment — usually around 11:30 p.m. after a long day — where you think:“I can’t keep doing this forever.”And right after that thought comes the next one:“But I have...
Read MoreShow All
What Every Business Owner Gets Wrong About Exiting Their Business
Most owners think exit planning is about selling a business — it’s actually about designing the life after the business.Most business owners think “exit planning” means planning for some far-off moment when they finally hang up the...
Read MoreThree Numbers Every Woman Should Know
Key TakeawaysHow much wealth are women on track to control in the next decade, and why does that matter?What does the life expectancy gap between women and men mean for how long money needs to last?How common is it for women to be...
Read MoreTax Prep vs. Tax Strategy: The Difference Matters More Than You Think
Key TakeawaysTreat tax strategy as a continuous process, not a once-a-year filing exercise.Coordinate with financial and tax professionals throughout the year to identify opportunities for efficiency.Review contribution limits,...
Read MoreUnderstanding the Emotions Behind Financial Decisions
Key TakeawaysEmotions and biases might influence financial choices more often than most people realize.Behavioral patterns, such as loss aversion, familiarity bias, and herd mentality, can impact long-term results.Recognizing emotional...
Read MoreAI and the New Face of Fraud: How to Protect Your Identity and Finances in 2026
Artificial intelligence (AI) may be the most revolutionary technology of our time, with industries scrambling to embrace its possibilities. AI’s early influence seems similar to the positive disruptions brought about by past...
Read More2025 in Review and What You Should Know
This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm.Cetera.11.17...
Read MoreBig Eth the Finance Geek Episode #56
Welcome to the world of property taxes, where the only thing certain in life (besides death) is the yearly reminder of how much you owe! But don’t worry, we’re here to break it down for you so you won’t be caught off guard when that...
Read MoreGoal Setting That Sticks: Simple Ways to Turn January Motivation into Lasting Wins
Key Takeaways and Suggestions for Successful Goal Setting Use SMART Goals for Clarity and FocusSet goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This proven method helps break big ambitions into manageable...
Read MoreYear-End Giving Strategies: Tax-Smart and Impactful
Key Takeaways A third of annual donations: About one-third of all charitable contributions are made in December. Donating before December 31 may offer tax advantages. New rules starting in 2026 (via the OBBB Act) may affect deductions...
Read MoreNew Retirement Contribution Limits for 2026
The Internal Revenue Service recently released new limits for 2026. Although these adjustments won’t bring any major changes, there are some minor elements to note. Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) IRA contribution limits are up...
Read MoreBig Eth the Finance Geek Episode #55
Thinking about taking the shortcut to wealth? Before you fall for the flashy promises of get rich quick schemes, hit pause and watch this video. We’re about to break down why those "too good to be true" offers are more like mirages...
Read MoreThe True Costs of Caring for Aging Parents
Key Takeaways Caring for aging parents is a growing reality for many Americans. The number of family caregivers in the U.S. has jumped to 63 million, a 45 percent increase over the past decade, making 1 in every 4 Americans a...
Read MoreMoney Talks: How to Use Holiday Gatherings to Start Family Financial Conversations
Key Takeaways Year-end holidays may be a good time to initiate a discussion about financial matters that may impact your family. If you have adult children, you may want to discuss your financial situation, estate strategy, and legal...
Read MoreBig Eth the Finance Geek Episode #54
Ever wonder why your favorite coffee shop keeps raising prices, or why that grocery bill suddenly feels like a luxury purchase? Well, welcome to the world of CPI – the Consumer Price Index. In this video, we’ll break down what CPI is,...
Read MoreShould You Pay Off Your Mortgage Early?
Receiving a bonus, inheritance, or an increase in income often prompts a key financial question: Should I use this money to pay off my mortgage, or invest it? At first glance, the answer might seem simple. But in reality, it requires...
Read MoreA 2025 Guide to Protecting Seniors from Fraud
If you’ve found yourself stepping into a more active role in your parents’ financial lives, you’re not alone. Some of us are helping aging parents navigate everything from healthcare decisions to bill payments—and increasingly, we’re...
Read MoreBig Eth the Finance Geek Episode #53
Welcome to your guide on economic indicators, where we’re peeling back the layers of data and giving you the scoop on what makes the economy tick! In this video, we’ll break down the world of economic indicators! Think of economic...
Read MoreSmart Moves to Consider Before Year-End
The final months of the year can sneak up quickly, and with them come deadlines, decisions, and distractions. Before the holiday season takes over your calendar, fall can be a valuable window to revisit your financial strategy and...
Read MoreBreaking Down the One Big Beautiful Bill Act: What You Need to Know
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (TCJA) included lower federal income tax brackets, bigger standard deductions, and higher gift and estate tax exemptions, among other provisions. The law stipulated that some of those tax breaks would...
Read MoreWhy More Families Are Choosing to Gift Wealth Earlier—and How to Do It
Estate management isn’t just about what happens after you’re gone— it’s also about what you can do now to help manage future estate taxes, transfer wealth strategically, and attempt to create a meaningful impact during your lifetime....
Read MoreWhat You Need to Know About the 2025 Changes to Inherited IRA Rules
The rules regarding inherited IRAs have changed in the last five years, and failing to comply with the new requirements may result in IRS penalties. These changes affect people inheriting IRAs and those looking to leave retirement...
Read MoreBig Eth the Finance Geek Episode #52
Welcome to your go-to guide for depreciation, where we break down how things lose value over time—and no, it’s not just your old car! In this video, we’re diving into depreciation, explaining exactly what it is and how to calculate it...
Read MoreBeyond Salary: Understanding Your Total Compensation
Compensation is more than just a number on a paycheck. Whether you're exploring new opportunities, preparing for a promotion, or evaluating your current benefits, it’s important to understand the full value of your total...
Read MoreHow Do You Turn Retirement Savings into a Reliable Income Strategy?
You’ve likely spent years building your retirement nest egg—saving diligently, investing wisely, and contributing to retirement accounts along the way. But transitioning from earning a paycheck to relying on your savings can feel...
Read More“The Four Most Dangerous Words In Investing Are: ‘This Time It’s Different.’” – Sir John Templeton
Despite those who say the conventional wisdom that has guided investor actions over the years is no longer valid in 2025, remember the famous quote from legendary investor Sir John Templeton: "The four most dangerous words in investing...
Read MoreWhat’s the Job Market Look Like for 2025 Graduates?
It’s graduation season—a time of celebration and new beginnings. For families with college seniors, this time can bring both excitement and uncertainty. While some graduates have jobs lined up, many others still are navigating job...
Read MoreIs It Smarter to Buy or Rent a Second Home?
As summer approaches, your thoughts may drift toward escaping your daily routine. Whether your idea of a perfect vacation is sitting on a pristine beach, fishing in a mountain lake, or playing the back nine between pickleball matches,...
Read MoreFrom College Acceptances to Affordability: Considerations for Families in the Final Stretch
April is a pivotal time in the college admissions process. After years of preparation, saving, and investing—not to mention the countless hours spent on exam prep, campus visits, and perfecting applications and essays—the finish line...
Read MoreSpring Into Financial Wellness: Actionable Steps for Financial Literacy Month
April isn’t just about filing taxes—it’s also Financial Literacy Month, a perfect opportunity to reflect on your financial habits, expand your knowledge, and take meaningful steps toward improving your financial well-being. Whether...
Read More10 Things You Can Do Now to Help Simplify Your Estate for Your Heirs
One of the greatest gifts you can give your loved ones is a thoughtful estate strategy that outlines your wishes after you are gone. Discussing estate details with your team of professionals is another way to help manage your legacy...
Read MoreThe Evolving Role of Women in Family Finances
March is Women’s History Month, and according to a recent survey, 49% of women consider themselves to be the chief financial officer of their households, up from 41% in 2021.1 Those numbers are even more impressive when you consider...
Read MoreDon’t Leave Money Behind: Finding Your Missing 401(k)s
You've worked hard throughout your life to build assets to support your retirement. As financial professionals, one of the most critical functions we provide is helping clients determine their retirement income needs and structuring a...
Read MoreTax Season Brings a New Wave of Identity Theft Risks
Tax season brings a new wave of identity theft risks, with criminals ready to exploit your personal data to file fraudulent tax returns in your name. Imagine the shock of discovering that a criminal beat you to filing your...
Read More10 Facts You May Not Know About Social Security
Social Security is often misunderstood or underestimated in retirement strategy. However, as financial professionals, we've seen how it can play a crucial role in our clients' overall financial strategy, regardless of their income...
Read MoreInnovative New Year's Resolutions: Financial and Personal Growth Strategies for 2025
Looks like New Year's resolutions are still going strong in 2025! A recent Pew survey found that about a third of Americans kicked off the year with at least one resolution, and many people actually went for multiple goals. It's...
Read MoreExit Planning- The Process Webinar
Navigate the complexities of exit planning with our expert-led webinar designed to guide you through every step of the process. We will talk about how to build value in your business, the different exit types, and more. You will leave...
Read MoreKey Financial Insights from 2024 and Looking Ahead to 2025
As we approach the end of 2024, it's an opportune time to reflect on the year's financial developments and consider what 2025 may bring. We believe in understanding both the past and potential future of our economic landscape, which...
Read MoreNavigating Healthcare Costs in Retirement: Life After Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance
As you approach retirement, a critical aspect of your retirement strategy can catch even the most financially savvy individuals off guard: healthcare costs. For decades, you may have enjoyed employer-sponsored health insurance. As...
Read MoreBig Eth the Finance Geek Episode #50
Welcome to your guide on reducing tax liability, where we’re turning the complex world of taxes into a walk in the park! In this video, we’re diving into the nitty-gritty of tax reduction strategies! Think of it like this: Reducing...
Read MoreA Different Kind of Year-End Review: 10 Steps to Reflect and Recharge
Financial professionals typically have a year-round focus on monetary goals and wealth management strategies. However, we also believe that true financial well-being is intrinsically linked to your overall life satisfaction and...
Read MoreBig Eth the Finance Geek Episode #49
Welcome to the essential guide on exit and succession planning, where we’re showing you how to gracefully exit your business and hand over the reins without a hitch! In this video, we're diving into the nitty-gritty of exit strategies...
Read MoreYear-End Giving Strategies: Maximizing Your Impact
America is a generous country. People with diverse backgrounds can unite for a good cause, whether to benefit their local communities or the broader world. As we enter the holiday season, now is a great time to think about your giving...
Read MoreExploring the Financial Impact of Electric Vehicles
As financial professionals, we’ve noticed a trend among our clients: an increasing interest in electric vehicles (EVs). To help address some of your questions, we’ve compiled this high-level guide to provide insights into the...
Read MoreBig Eth the Finance Geek Episode #48
Welcome to the ultimate guide on creating passive income, where we're uncovering the secrets to making money while you sleep! In this video, we're diving deep into the world of passive income! Think of it like this: Building passive...
Read MoreSafeguarding Your Identity: Essential Tips for Financial Security
Statistics show that nearly 33% of Americans have faced some identity theft attempts in their lives, and experts estimate there is a new case of identity theft every 22 seconds. As financial professionals, one of our primary goals is...
Read MoreThe Impact of Elections on the Markets and Tax Policy
The Impact of Elections on the Markets and Tax Policy With Labor Day behind us, we're in the final stretch of the 2024 presidential election race. As we follow the news and parse the most recent polls, some may ask, "How might what...
Read MoreBig Eth the Finance Geek Episode #47
Big Eth the Finance Geek Episode #47 Welcome to the ultimate guide on VA loans, where we're decoding the secrets to unlocking your path to homeownership without the headache! In this video, we're diving deep into the world of VA loans!...
Read MoreDon’t Be A Victim Of The Retirement Crisis
Don’t Be A Victim Of The Retirement Crisis If you think the United States has a retirement crisis, you are not alone. A recent survey found that 79% of working-age Americans believe the same thing. That percentage is up from 67% in...
Read MoreBig Eth the Finance Geek Episode #46
Unlocking the Secrets of Your 401(k) When You Say Goodbye to Your Job: Navigating Your Retirement Savings Like a Pro! Welcome to the ultimate guide on what to do with your 401(k) when it's time to bid farewell to your old job! In this...
Read MorePreparing to Send a Child Off to College? Don't Forget These Important Topics
Sending a child off to college is a major milestone for any family, whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or close friend. It’s an exciting time, filled with anticipation and perhaps a bit of trepidation. There’s so much to do, and...
Read MoreDo You Know About the New Filing Requirements for Small Business Owners?
If you are a small business owner—or plan to be one—you should be aware of a new reporting requirement. The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), passed in 2021, changed beneficial ownership rules, which is expected to impact 32 million...
Read MoreIntroduction To Exit Planning Webinar
Unlock the door to a strategic exit with our dynamic webinar tailored for business owners. Dive into the art of exit planning, from maximizing value to navigating the sale process. Whether you are eyeing retirement or new ventures,...
Read MoreBig Eth the Finance Geek Episode #45
Welcome to the ultimate crash course in financial parenting, where we're unlocking the secrets to building a nest egg for your little chicks' future dreams! In this video, we're diving deep into the world of saving and investing for...
Read MoreTen Common Estate Strategy Mistakes You Should Avoid
Legacy preparation can play a key role in any financial strategy. Legacy management lets you consider what happens to everything you’ve accumulated—and may continue to accumulate—throughout your lifetime. But far too often, we’ve seen...
Read MoreFinancial Wedding Tips for a Memorable “I Do”
As we enter the traditional wedding month of June, we wanted to explore the range of expenses that can be related to this special event. The average US wedding costs $35,0001 According to The Knot Real Weddings Study of nearly 10,000...
Read MoreThe Evolving Relationship Between Stocks and Bonds
Sir John Templeton once said, “The four most expensive words in investing are: ‘This time it’s different.'” And normally, we would agree. But the phrase “This time it’s different” may apply to what's happened in financial markets in...
Read MoreHow Much Do You Need To Retire?
A few years ago, there were ads from financial services companies asking, “What’s your number?” The number was the money you needed to retire comfortably. This was an effective way for financial services companies to get people...
Read MoreIdentity Protection Strategies – Are You Doing Enough To Keep Your Information Safe?
There isn’t a week that goes by when you don’t read about some data breach. Safeguarding your personal information starts with understanding cybersecurity risks, knowing what to look for, and doing everything you can to help protect...
Read MoreCreate a Strategy to Protect Your Wealth with Potential Estate Tax Changes Looming
At the end of 2025, portions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) are set to expire. Many changes will come with the sunsetting of many rules, including the possibility that federal estate and gift tax exemption levels will revert to...
Read MoreGive Your Children the Gift of Financial Literacy
Give your children the gift of financial literacy. They’ll thank you later! As a parent, you are well aware of your responsibility in helping your children grow up happy and healthy. Once they enter their teen years, the pressure can...
Read MoreInvesting in a Presidential Election Year
As the presidential election race heats up, a common question on investors’ minds is, “How might the looming White House vote impact the markets?” Some may wonder if they should tweak their portfolios or sit tight...
Read MoreSECURE Act 2.0 Includes New Provision On Special Needs Trusts
Experts estimate there are more than 44 million people with disabilities in the U.S., representing 13.4% of the population.1 Many parents of children with disabilities choose to establish a special needs trust. This can help provide...
Read MoreThe Psychology of Love and Money
Money can be a touchy subject, especially regarding our closest relationships. Whether we like it or not, finance plays an integral role in our partnerships, families, and friendships. So, how can we foster healthy attitudes and...
Read MoreRules and Regulation Changes That Could Impact Your Finances in 2024
In the ever-evolving financial landscape, staying informed about the latest changes and potential implications for your retirement savings is crucial. Shifts in retirement regulations define 2024, and we’re committed to keeping...
Read MoreBig Eth the Finance Geek Episode #42
Welcome to a thoughtful exploration of the complex relationship between finances and mental health. It's a crucial topic that deserves our attention, much like caring for the engine in your car to ensure a smooth and worry-free journey...
Read MoreThe Big Game Indicator and Other Unusual Economic Theories
It’s a fun time of year for football fans. The NFL playoffs are starting, and the Super Bowl is just around the corner. While football fans will tune in for the matchups, commercials, and Usher’s Super Bowl halftime...
Read MoreBig Eth the Finance Geek Episode #41
Retirement. A word and magical time that is spoken about almost as a whisper. What is it exactly though? Why is it so important? The key is to view it not as a destination, but as the moment your money grants you the freedom to enjoy...
Read MoreMajor Tax Changes Looming: Are You Ready?
With the start of the new year, we wanted to discuss a topic that will likely garner attention throughout 2024: the potential sunsetting of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) in 2025. Although some of the provisions within the TCJA are...
Read More
7 Financial Resolutions for 2021
The year 2020 presented us with unique challenges. Never has a singular event had such wide-ranging repercussions as the Covid pandemic. It has touched nearly every area of our lives. Schooling, socializing, family gatherings, travel,...
Read More
Is Consolidating Your Loans a Good Idea? We have an Answer for Nurses and Advanced Care Providers.
Should I consolidate my student loans? Is consolidating loans a good idea? If you are like many other people in your field and everyone else dealing with date, you are probably constantly berated with advertisements to consolidate...
Read More
The Retirement Plans for Sole Proprietorships and Small Business
Small businesses and sole proprietorships have access to a couple of great retirement plans.If you have 1-2 employees (including yourself), then there are a few unique plans you should consider. SEP (Simplified Employee Pension) SEP...
Read More
What College Students Should do With Money, 6 Tips.
What should college students know about money First off, we want to begin talking about the college challenge facing many Americans in 2020. We would encourage that if you find the following helpful, to pass it along to anyone else...
Read More
What are some Key Elements Needed in Preparing for Your Retirement? Here are 6 Steps.
6 Steps That Put You on the Path to a Successful Retirement Achieving your financial goals doesn’t just happen by itself. It takes a plan, implementing the plan, adhering to the plan, and when necessary, adjusting the plan....
Read More
What to do Before you Start Looking to Buy a House
What to do before you start looking to buy a house? We offer some tips to help position you to purchase your home. Buying a house is an intimidating thing. There are usually more questions than answers, so people often hesitate. We...
Read More
Should Nurses and Midlevels Pay Off Debt vs. Saving and Investing
Should Nurses and Midlevels pay off debt vs. saving and investing? In this video, we explore which should be the priority. How do you know what is the best financial option for you? To pay off your debt or to start saving and...
Read More
Tips for Nurses and Midlevels Looking to Purchase a Home
Are you a nurse or midlevel looking to purchase a home in the next few years? Here are some tips to help you navigate the home loans, home mortgages, and other things you should know when looking to buy a home. In this video we talk...
Read More
Employee Debt Repayment Match Strategy PSA
In this video we talk about an employee benefit for helping to pay down debt, specifically for student loans! This is a PSA for employers to help their employees. Specifically for nurses and midlevels, this is an employee benefit that...
Read More
Personal Finance for Nurses and Midlevels- 6 Strategies!
If you are about to graduate and become either a nurse or a midlevel, then there are some financial planning tips you should know. You have a unique situation where you are probably coming from school with some student debt, while not...
Read More
The Business Owner Conundrum
What is financial planning for a business? Why is it important for business owners? The business owner conundrum is why. Business owners work their whole life building an asset, that is often times a very valuable asset, to be able to...
Read MoreHow Are the Markets Reacting to the Election 2020
How are the markets reacting to the election 2020– a nail-biter For the nation, 2020 has been one of the most difficult years in memory. We are grappling with Covid and its fallout, economic upheaval, racial tensions, wildfires,...
Read More
Letter for September: A Recession and a Rally
Imagine yourself at the beginning of the year. You have knowledge that within weeks a novel virus will emerge that will shut down much of the global economy. Businesses will close, sporting events will be canceled, your daily routine...
Read MoreWhat's Going on in the Markets for August
When I take a step back from what is happening in the economy and look at the major U.S. market averages, I see an incredible disconnect. And I am not alone. U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP), which is the broadest measure of the value...
Read More
2Q20 and Looking Forward
2Q20 Although some might take credit, most advisors never saw the first quarter of 2020 coming. In fact, there was reason for cautious optimism that the great bull run, while slowing, was still running. When the Federal Government...
Read More