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!
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.
Turn on the TV or scroll through a news feed in uncertain times and you’re sure to see that nasty “R” word - Recession. “How bad will this be?” “How long will this last?” It’s not uncommon to hear, “This one is different!” or “We’ve never seen this problem before!” So, what does history have to tell us about this topic?
Turning 65? Medicare can be a daunting topic, but this guide should help understand your options and build your plan to successfully enroll!
“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.
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.
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?
No one likes a seeing their investments lose value. But opportunities exist in any situation, including market downturns. One such opportunity is called tax-loss harvesting. We discuss what it is, how it can help and when you might consider using it.
With so many feeling the effects of the COVID-19 quarantine, federal and state governments are moving to help. Here are a few of the notable tax deadline changes and stimulus efforts in the recent Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Tax deadlines, IRA & RMD changes, stimulus efforts, small business relief options and more.
Roth IRAs are one of the few ways to build tax-free retirement income. And with a long retirement time frame, they can build quite the snowball. But, if you make too much income, the IRS won’t let you contribute. Fortunately, for many, the Backdoor Roth IRA can help...so is it worth the extra effort?
Whether you're retired and living on portfolio income or just starting...
Parents have a lot to deal with. You’re feeding, clothing, cleaning,...
Job loss, unexpected trip to the hospital, a tree falls on the house –...
In our tech-heavy Pacific Northwest, many companies grant stock or...
Every family wants to create a sound legacy for their children for the...