Roth IRA’s
Stated simply, if you have cash in banks or assets in taxable brokerage or mutual fund accounts, but you do not have a Roth IRA, you are missing a tremendous opportunity. This article can end on the power of that…
Medical Bill Woes
According to a CNN report, 49.9 million Americans were without medical insurance in 2010. To seal the gap between those insured and uninsured the government signed the Affordable Care Act that requires every American to be covered by medical insurance…
The Foundation of all Financial Planning
When first entering the practice as a personal financial advisor I thought I understood financial decision making. It was easy: 1 plus 1 equals 2; add another 1 and we get 3. Financial Planning was logical and straightforward economics. If…
Your Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights
The Bill of Rights assures and protects therights of every American citizen. But did you know that you have a second Bill of Rights, one that protects you as a taxpayer? What’s more, the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights contains ten…
Using Debt Properly
One of the most common financial questions we receive at The Financial Consulate is, “When is it best to borrow money versus using existing savings?” Oftentimes those in the business of providing financial advice will recommend borrowing money whenever you…
The Elements of Estate Planning Most Missed
Many equate estate planning with creating a will. So, when you finally get around to writing your will-- a task most of us prefer avoiding rather than addressing, you feel satisfied that you took care of everything. Unfortunately, though, you…
A Crash Course in Tax Carry Overs
Filing a tax return is like skydiving for the first time; it’s nerve-wracking, exhilarating and dangerous. After the parachute deploys—Whew, the ripcord worked— you’re free to enjoy the view. Similarly, after filing taxes some may lose sight of what’s to…
The Cost of Estate Planning Procrastination
As a comprehensive financial advisor, I have reviewed over 70 wills written by some of the best attorneys around the country. Yet, inevitably, there are mistakes in the overall estate plan. In no way are the attorneys at fault; rather,…
Enjoying Your Work
Given that the average human being spends more time working than in almost any other activity, it is critical that we enjoy our work. Joy is the foundation of a healthy, prosperous and fulfilling life. Unfortunately, most surveys say that…
Beat the Odds: How to Maximize Your Social Security
The ebbs and flows of the U.S. market are worrisome particularly to those approaching full retirement age (FRA). Today, most retirees must rely solely on meager savings and Social Security benefits to keep them upright through retirement. Securing one’s financial…