Surprising New Changes To Social Security
Recently, Congress included surprising Social Security rule changes in the 2016 budget legislation. The bill has now become law and the updated rules will become permanent over a phase-in time period. We wanted to reach out to all of our clients to help better explain what you may be hearing in the news and describe […]
A Look Into The Recent Social Security Changes
Last week, Congress passed their “Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015.” Among the typical budgetary items, there are a few alterations that will impact the Social Security benefit filing system. Anyone who turns 62 in 2016 or later will no longer be able to take advantage of the “file-and-suspend” strategy for the purpose of receiving spousal […]
A Simple Guide to Medicare: Supplement vs. Advantage Plan
Most Americans are overwhelmed with the array of options when searching for health insurance coverage in addition to Medicare Part A and B. Before answering a common question people ask regarding Medicare, it probably makes sense to explain the different components: Medicare Part A: If you paid Medicare taxes while employed (most people do), there […]
Changing Your Domicile from NYS
Would you stop being a fan of the Yankees, Mets, Giants, Jets, Bills or the Syracuse Orangemen and root for a team in Florida in order to save on your tax bill? It might help! Many New York State residents planning for retirement expect to maintain a residence in New York, but claim another state […]
4 Steps to a Successful Retirement
Many investors nearing retirement are beginning to focus on life after work. Questions arise that can be difficult to answer, such as: How much savings is enough to retire? What sources of income will I have after I stop working? How do I construct a portfolio to fund spending goals? What will I do with […]
Should You Manage Your Own Money?
Over the weekend, the Wall Street Journal writer Lindsay Gellman covered this important topic. She did an excellent job articulating the values of both hiring an advisor and managing your own personal finances. The sole point that I disagree with in the article is titled, “You won’t stick to a pro’s advice, anyway.” At […]
Active or Passive?
In a recent Wall Street Journal (WSJ) article, the debate over whether to use active or passive investments was addressed. The conclusion was just use both! Let’s take a look at the five reasons they give to defend this neutral stance and see if they hold up to scrutiny. 1. Use index funds for efficient […]
What is the Value of an Investment Advisor?
Does hiring an investment advisor improve your portfolio returns? This question is often on the minds of our clients or prospective clients. The value of an advisor is often easier to describe than define numerically. Many clients find value in hiring an advisor to provide “peace of mind” and comfort that a professional is watching […]
Are 401(k) Fees Preventing Your Retirement?
The Atlantic published an article over the weekend on 401(k) fees that really resonated with me. With employer retirement plans being one of the largest sources of savings, it is disheartening to continually see high fee 401(k) plans. Below is the article. Let us know if your 401(k) fees are eating into your […]
Geoff Wells featured in Market Watch article!
Market Watch recently released an article focusing on the confusion and stress felt by 401(k) savers. Investors feel the 401(k) options offered are too confusing and they don’t know what to do! Rockbridge financial planner, Geoff Wells, shared his feelings on how investors can eliminate that stress. Read the full article here (Market Watch Article)