Archive for December 2017
Halloween’s Long Gone—Make Sure You Don’t Have Any Skeletons in Your Financial Closet
While the headline is all in fun, hidden “skeletons” in your financial closet could seriously impact your financial well being, including threatening your retirement. No matter what your income level is, anyone can be knocked out of their fiscal security, reports a recent article in The Kansas City Star, “Financial skeletons to clean out of…
Read MoreSmall Hometown is Big Beneficiary of Quiet Community Member
The memory of John Criss, who loved his hometown, serves as a shining example of how a legacy is created through a properly executed will and the spirit of philanthropy. John Criss lived with his parents, owned a small business and spent his entire life in the small Iowa town of Sac City. When he…
Read MoreSocial Security Payments Will Increase in 2018, But So Will Medicare Premiums
It’s not great news for retirees who depend upon Social Security, even if it is the biggest increase since 2012. If you want a high-quality lifestyle during retirement, don’t count on Social Security or Medicare. First, the good news from AARP’s article, “Social Security Payments to Increase 2 Percent Next Year:” Social Security benefits will…
Read MoreIncreasing Bitcoin Prices Driving Digital Currency Holders to Estate Planning
Traditionally, clients start on their estate plan before the birth of a child or a new marriage. Rising prices in cryptocurrencies, like Bitcoin, are introducing a new generation to estate planning. As even small holdings have grown in value, it is increasingly important for digital currency owners to have an estate plan. There are complexities…
Read MoreIs an Annuity Right For You?
Annuities are a mixed bag. For some, they are a useful tool, but they aren’t for everyone. Be certain that your advisor is making recommendations based on your specific needs, and not a product line. The differences between annuities are very broad, and you’ll want one that is correct for you. Annuity sales are on…
Read MoreHow Millions of Americans Manage to Care for Older Adults and Those with Dementia
The number of Americans who provide home care for older adults and adults with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia is staggering. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 41 million Americans provide care to older adults. The Alzheimer’s Association reports that more than 15 million provide care for someone with dementia. The…
Read MoreThe Toughest Conversation You’ll Ever Have
It’s the topic none of us want to think about, but talking with your children and loved ones about your end-of-life wishes can be one of the more important conversations. In some families, it’s easier to talk about sex than it is to talk about money, while in other families it’s the opposite. But few…
Read MoreEstate and Gift Tax Limits Increase for 2018, Says the IRS
Inflation is the primary reason for increases in the 2018 estate and gift tax exemptions. After months of speculation about whether or not the estate and gift tax exemption would increase, the numbers are now official. The estate and gift tax exemption for 2018 is $5.6 million per individual, an increase from $5.49 million in…
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