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Quarterly Economic Update
In this Q3 recap: the U.S. and China intensify their trade dispute, but agree to negotiate again, the Federal Reserve cuts short-term interest rates once more, and stocks ride through some volatility to end the summer higher.
The Problem of Money Paralysis
Not making a move may not always be the best move to make.
Quarterly Economic Update Q2 2019
In this Q2 recap: stocks rise, fall, and then soar, as the FederalReserve shifts its thinking and new chapters unfold in the ongoing U.S.-China trade dispute.
Intern at Alterra! Bellevue Financial Advising Firm Internship
Wanted: College Student Exploring Future Career Opportunities
Coping with an Inheritance
A windfall from a loved one can be both rewarding and complicated.
Quarterly Economic Update Q1 2019
In this Q1 recap: the Federal Reserve alters its outlook, the truce in the trade dispute holds, the real estate market strengthens, and stocks make an impressive comeback from Q4, even as growth concerns mount.
Qualified Charitable Distributions: Save Taxes & Use Your IRA for Charity!
If you own a traditional IRA or other pre-tax retirement account, you're likely aware that Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) start once you reach age 73...whether you need them or not. These withdrawals are taxed as ordinary income and, if you don't need this...
Why You Want a Retirement Plan in Writing
Many people save and invest vaguely for the future. They know they need to accumulate money for retirement, but when it comes to how much they will need or how they will do it, they are not quite sure. They will “wing it,” hope for the best, and see how it goes. How...
Section 199A Business Tax Deductions
Many households, businesses, and other organizations are arranging their documents for the coming tax season. The changes to the tax code have inspired a great deal of discussion, confusion, and clarification.Something you might want to know, as a business owner....
Safely Climbing & Descending the Wealth Mountain
Living in the Pacific Northwest, you’ve almost certainly done a bit of climbing or hiking. If so, you learn quickly that ascending the mountain takes a different approach than descending the mountain. Skills required, muscles used and awareness needed all change when...
Quarterly Economic Update Q4 2018
THE QUARTER IN BRIEFWall Street saw many ups and downs in the last three months of 2018. The fourth quarter concluded with bulls and bears vying for control of the market and with the S&P 500 suffering a 13.97%, three-month loss. The Federal Reserve sent...
2019 Retirement Plan Limit Increases
The IRS increased the annual contribution limits on IRAs, 401(k)s, and other widely used retirement plan accounts for 2019. Here is a quick look at the changes. IRA & Roth IRA. Next year, you can put up to $6,000 in any type of IRA. The limit is $7,000 if you will...
What To Do When Your Stocks Go Down
During volatile times in the market, it’s not uncommon to be concerned about your investment strategies. These are a few points to help avoid common mistakes and stay on track.
3 Ways to Give More and Feel Better About It
In over a decade of helping families and business owners plan for their financial futures, I've found that, deep down, people love people. It may look and sound different from person to person, but it’s there. Compassion for hungry families, care for children in need,...
Safe Harbor 401(k) or Simple IRA – Which retirement plan is best for my new dental practice?
It's one of the most frequent discussions we have with new dental practice owners: "What retirement plan should I choose for my new practice? A friend recommended a Simple IRA and another colleague has a 401(k). Which is right for me?" The right answer usually comes...
Worried about estate taxes in Washington?
Download our free guide with 5 Strategies to Reduce Your Estate Taxes in Washington State.