I’m 73 and Don’t Need My RMDs…What Should I Do?
6 ways to use required IRA and 401(k) distributions you don't need to save taxes and make an impact on loved ones and causes you care about.
I’m 73 and Don’t Need My RMDs…What Should I Do?
Josh Whelan
Investing vs. Speculating and Why it Matters
Investing vs. Speculating and Why it Matters
All investments involve risk but not all risks are equal. Are you investing or speculating? Both have a place but come with different risks and outcomes. What are the differences and how can you place each one properly in your plan?
6 Keys to Successful Investing
6 Keys to Successful Investing
What separates successful investment strategies from those that fail? It’s usually not expert stock picking or timing the market – it’s leveraging what you control to your advantage. There are some things we don’t control: the market, tax laws, and inflation rates. But there are many things we do control: saving, spending, and sticking to your investment strategies. These 6 steps can help build an investment strategy based on what you can control.
3 Tips to Maximize Your HSA
3 Tips to Maximize Your HSA
Health Savings Accounts, or HSAs, can be a great way to pay for healthcare expenses and save taxes. And, with these 3 tips, you can significantly increase your HSA's impact.
Can you gift too much?
Can you gift too much?
A discussion of giving too much away might initially seem strange. But, if you’re not careful, you might inadvertently end up with a tax bill on funds you give away. This is called the gift tax and the IRS expects you to know it. After all, they’ve generously listed it on their website for you to read! So, how does it work?
Socially Responsible Investing in Your Financial Planning
Socially Responsible Investing in Your Financial Planning
An introduction to Socially Responsible Investing and how you can choose an approach that aligns your values and resources.
The Mega Backdoor Roth Solo 401(k) for Solopreneurs
The Mega Backdoor Roth Solo 401(k) for Solopreneurs
The Mega Backdoor Roth 401(k) has typically been reserved for select Fortune 500 companies. Here's how you - the Solopreneur - can access this little known strategy!
My Portfolio & the S&P 500
My Portfolio & the S&P 500
Why is my portfolio underperforming the S&P 500? Do I need to make a change? These questions are on the minds of many investors when a primary index like S&P 500 rallies ahead of many others. As one of the most widely recognized benchmarks, it's common to compare your strategy against it – but should you?
Are We a Fit? The Alterra Fit Interview
Are We a Fit? The Alterra Fit Interview
A first meeting – or “first date” – with a professional like a financial advisor can be uncomfortable. Believe it or not, it can feel just as uncomfortable for the professional. But it doesn't have to be! Our Alterra Fit Interview creates an open, comfortable, productive first discussion and enables us to discover together if we're a good fit and your best next steps - whether with or without us!
5 Mistakes People Make in a Recession and How to Avoid Them
5 Mistakes People Make in a Recession and How to Avoid Them
There’s no getting around it – recessions are stressful. The 2020 COVID-19 pandemic is just the most recent reminder. Recessions bring volatility, uncertainty, anxiety and the urge to act – do something, anything, to make sure I’m safe. This is often where people make mistakes. Here are a few common ones we see and how to avoid them so you’re ready the next time around.
How to Enroll in Medicare when Turning 65
How to Enroll in Medicare when Turning 65
Turning 65? Medicare can be a daunting topic, but this guide should help understand your options and build your plan to successfully enroll!
Is Your Home an Investment?
Is Your Home an Investment?
“Why are you throwing away money on rent when you could own?” Have you ever heard this? Its core assertion is that renting a home is an expense while owning a home is an investment. For most homeowners, however, this is unlikely to be the case.
Why This Isn’t the Next Great Depression
Why This Isn’t the Next Great Depression
We don’t see this as the next Great Depression. Why? Well, historically, major economic downturns have different causes, but one common thread separates the Great Depression from each subsequent recession and recovery.
The Mega Backdoor Roth – A Hidden 401(k) Benefit
The Mega Backdoor Roth – A Hidden 401(k) Benefit
Microsoft led the way in a rarely utilized benefit within their 401(k) plan – the after-tax Roth conversion. And, slowly but surely, other companies are adopting this plan feature. So, how does it work, what other companies offer it and is it worth it?
PPP vs EIDL – Which CARES Act Program is Right for Me?
PPP vs EIDL – Which CARES Act Program is Right for Me?
The CARES Act provides a wide range of support to struggling small businesses. But which program is right for you? Here’s a guide to help navigate your options.