I'll be speaking to the Southlake Chamber of Commerce WIN (Women in Networking) meeting at 11:30 am on Wednesday, August 26. Women have unique opportunities and challenges with money! Women tend to live longer and earn less than men, but according to some recent studies may actually be better … [Read more...]
Archives for July 2009
2nd income analysis
If you're like many folks right now, you may be trying to determine if having a stay-at-home spouse go back to work would be beneficial to your financial situation. The answer is not always clear-cut, so you want to make sure you do the math. A second-income analysis involves an evaluation of … [Read more...]
Couples, Investing, and Risk
It's pretty common for spouses to be at different points on the risk tolerance spectrum. If you're one of these couples, you know that these differences can have varying effects on the relationship and your investing behavior. Sometimes, the more conservative spouse just completely delegates … [Read more...]
Early Retirees & Health Insurance
Thinking about retiring early? As part of the decision, you've got to calculate whether you'll have enough retirement income to meet your needs. While adding up the costs of customary living expenses, utilities, and an occasional vacation, don't forget to include another important retirement … [Read more...]
Do you need disability insurance?
Lack of long-term disability insurance is one of the most common issues I see in my practice. First, please note that I don't sell disability insurance. I'm a fee only financial planner, so I don't receive any commissions on insurance or other products I recommend. My interest is in helping my … [Read more...]
Free Financial Webinars
The National Association of Personal Financial Advisors is starting a new series of free webinars on various financial topics including Money 101, Kids & Money, Investing Basics, Protecting What you Have, and more. These sessions are designed to provide a convenient, accessible way to get … [Read more...]
Should You Consolidate Student Loans Now?
If you have a federal Stafford Loan or PLUS Loan issued on or after July 1, 1998 and before July 1, 2006, consider yourself lucky. Beginning July 1, 2009, the interest rates on these variable-rate loans are set to drop to the lowest rates in the history of the federal student loan program. These new … [Read more...]
401(k) options when you change jobs
If you've lost your job, or are changing jobs, you may be wondering what to do with your 401(k) plan account. It's important to understand your options. What will I be entitled to? If you leave your job (voluntarily or involuntarily), you'll be entitled to a distribution of your vested balance. … [Read more...]
July 2009 Newsletter
The July 2009 newsletter is now available online. It reviews some blog information on FDIC insurance limits, establishing an emergency fund, and down market estate planning opportunities. It also covers new information on whether or not you should refinance your mortgage and considerations in … [Read more...]
Estate Planning Opportunities in a Down Market
Most Americans are not subject to the federal estate tax at its current exemption levels. For 2009, each person can pass $3.5 million to heirs estate-tax free at their death. However, if your estate has the potential to be affected by the estate tax, you have some planning opportunities right … [Read more...]