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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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,…
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…
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…
Filial…that which is due of a son or daughter. We all know that a parent has an obligation to a child, but did you know that a child has an obligation to an aging parent as well? Not too long…
In late 2004, a roadside bomb in Fallujah tragically took the life of twenty year old Marine Lance Corporal Justin Ellsworth. And it fell to his family to conduct the painful process of wrapping up his estate. But his father,…