As a financial advisor, I hear a lot of questions about Social Security — and rightly so. It’s a critical piece of retirement planning for retirees. If you’re wondering whether Social Security will be there for you, when you can claim it, how much you’ll receive, and how your choices impact your future — you’re not alone. Let’s walk through these essential questions together.

The U.S. stock market has faced some challenges during the month of March, driven by concerns around tariffs, economic growth, and the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) creating uncertainty. However, there are still reasons to remain hopeful, especially for long-term investors.

Tax season is here, and while it can seem overwhelming, preparing ahead of time can make the process much easier. Whether you’re still working, newly retired, or enjoying the benefits of retirement, taking the right steps will help you file with confidence—and maybe even uncover opportunities for savings.

If you’re thinking about sharing some of your wealth with family members or loved ones, it’s helpful to understand the IRS rules around gifting. Gifting can be a wonderful way to support the people you care about, and it’s also an effective strategy for reducing your taxable estate. With a few guidelines in mind, you can make sure your generosity doesn’t come with any extra paperwork or tax surprises.

The Social Security Administration has announced that beneficiaries will see a 2.5% increase in their benefit payments in 2025. This annual cost of living adjustment (COLA) will impact over 72.5 million Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients.

The last month has been a whirlwind for the financial markets. Investors have been hit with a series of unsettling developments, from disappointing Q2 reports from major tech companies to uncertainty around short-term interest rates following remarks from Federal Chair Powell. In anticipate of the upcoming elections, we wanted to share a piece that Capital Group recently published highlighting the 3 mistakes that investors make during election years.

Reaching the age of 65 is an exciting milestone, and it comes with important decisions about your healthcare coverage. Here are some key considerations to help you make the best choices for your Medicare coverage:

When it comes to discussions around estate planning, clients frequently ask if it is possible to avoid probate. Before determining if probate can be avoided, let’s begin by understanding what the probate process really is.

Navigating the process of settling an estate can be daunting, especially for first-timers. Even those with prior experience may find that handling the estate of a spouse presents unique challenges. The emotional toll of losing a spouse is profound, and managing the practical and financial complexities of their estate can be overwhelming. Here are five essential insights that widows often encounter during this difficult journey.

Social Security can be complicated, and as a result, many individuals don't have a full understanding of the choices they may have. Here are five facts about Social Security that are important to keep in mind.

Are you approaching the milestone of retirement? It's an exciting time filled with anticipation for the adventures and relaxation that lie ahead. However, before you can fully embrace this new chapter of your life, it's essential to ensure that you're adequately prepared. That's where our ultimate retirement checklist is a handy resource. Let's dive into the steps you need to take to achieve financial security and overall well-being in retirement.

Losing a loved one is undoubtedly one of life's most challenging experiences. In addition to the emotional toll, there's often a daunting list of practical and financial questions that need addressing. At times like these, many turn to professionals for guidance, and we, as your trusted advisors, are here to assist you through this difficult journey.

If you're like most retirees, running out of money is likely one of your biggest fears for your golden years. The good news is that careful planning and tax-efficient drawdown strategies can help you enjoy the lifestyle you've dreamed of while minimizing the impact of taxes on your retirement income.

Love is in the air as Valentine’s Day approaches. Amid the romantic dinners and sweet gestures, it’s important to acknowledge that managing shared finances is not always a walk in the park for couples. To avoid money matters becoming a source of tension, it’s best to lay a path for open and constructive dialogue. Here are a few practical tips to help make these conversations more seamless and productive.

Retirement might seem far off, but the steps you take today can significantly impact your financial freedom tomorrow. We frequently get asked about the best way to build retirement savings, and starting early is key building a strong foundation. If you are concerned that you have some “catching up” to do, it’s not too late to focus on maximining retirement savings.

Tax planning is an important consideration in maximizing your dollars. As we start a new tax year, understanding the changes in tax laws, deductions, and credits is crucial when aiming to minimize tax liabilities. Here's a brief guide of tax planning considerations for you to review this year:

While the 3.2% COLA increase for 2024 is a welcome development, it is vital to be aware of the impact of Medicare Part B premiums on the overall financial picture.

The New Year always brings opportunities for growth, achievement, and of course, financial prosperity. As we gear up to embrace fresh beginnings, it's an ideal time to reflect on our fiscal health and set (or reset) financial goals that pave the way for a secure future. Just as we commit to physical health resolutions, it is important to give equal attention to our financial well-being.

With November being Long-Term Care Insurance Awareness Month, let’s look at the most common frequently asked questions we receive from our clients and community.

In 2019, Washington State passed and the Governor signed into law the Washington State’s Long-Term Services and Supports Trust Act (“LTSS”) which would implement a 0.58% payroll tax to fund long-term care services for Washington State residents. After making its way through objections and being upheld by the courts, this payroll tax went into effect this past July.