Join Stephen LaFrance, CFP®, AIF®, ChSNC®, MBA as he updates you on this year’s first quarter.
Tag: Financial Advising
Financial Literacy Month: Our Favorite Podcasts
April is Financial Literacy Month, a time dedicated to empowering everyone with the knowledge necessary to make informed and effective financial decisions. There are many ways to improve your financial literacy, and we are thrilled to share some of our favorite resources to boost your financial wisdom. As a listener of the following podcasts, you’ll gain valuable insights from experts, hear real-life stories, and listen in on thought-provoking discussions on a wide range of financial topics.
Planet Money
Our first highlight is Planet Money, a podcast by NPR that makes economics fun, understandable, and relevant. The podcast can take any topic and relate it back to the economy, helping you understand both the economy and the world as a whole.
Episodes are typically around 30 minutes or less. Here are some recent examples of episodes we’ve enjoyed:
Planet Money can be found anywhere you listen to your podcasts!
BiggerPockets
Dive into the world of finance, entrepreneurship, and real estate with our next podcast pick: BiggerPockets. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just getting started, BiggerPockets offers invaluable insights to help you build your wealth and navigate the complexities of real estate investment.
Most episodes are less than 1 hour long. Here are some recent episodes we enjoyed:
- Raising Private Money 101: Beginner Steps to Raise Your First $1,000,000
- Seeing Greene: Paying Off Rentals, Partnerships Splits, & Using Home Equity
BiggerPockets is available anywhere you listen to your podcasts!
Bloomberg’s Masters in Business
Our next feature is Bloomberg’s Masters in Business. This podcast brings the insights of the world’s leading business minds right to your ears. Delve into deep conversations with industry pioneers in finance, economics, and beyond. Discover the strategies and stories behind successful business ventures, elevating your understanding and inspiring you with every episode.
Episodes vary in length, ranging from just 5 minutes to over an hour long. Here are some episodes we’ve enjoyed recently:
Masters in Business is available wherever you listen to podcasts!
Exploring podcasts during Financial Literacy Month offers an engaging and accessible way to expand your financial knowledge and empower yourself to make informed decisions about your finances. Whether you’re looking to improve your budgeting skills, learn about investing, or gain a deeper understanding of economic concepts, these podcasts provide valuable resources to help you navigate your financial journey with confidence. Grab your headphones and start listening – your healthy financial future awaits!
For more personalized advice and insights, contact the Blakley Financial team today. Our advisors are available and ready to assist you in your journey toward strong financial literacy and well-being.
Blakely Financial, Inc. is an independent financial planning and investment management firm that provides clarity, insight, and guidance to help our clients attain their financial goals. Engage with the entire Blakely Financial team at WWW.BLAKELYFINANCIAL.COM to see what other financial tips we can provide towards your financial well-being.
Commonwealth Financial Network® or Blakely Financial does not provide legal or tax advice. You should consult a legal or tax professional regarding your individual situation.
Managing Finances in a Blended Family
Embarking on the journey of blended families brings both joy and unique challenges. Navigating the intricacies of a blended family requires careful consideration and planning, especially when it comes to managing finances. No matter your age or stage in life, open communication, and proactive financial strategies are essential for building a strong foundation for your new family’s future finances. In this blog, we’ll explore key considerations for managing finances in a blended family to set the stage for a prosperous and harmonious financial future.
Blended Family Basics
When entering into a blended family, there are some key items to consider to help navigate potential challenges. Above all, clear communication is paramount.
Clear communication is not only about how you’ll blend your children if you have kids in your marriage but also about how you will manage your finances in this new blended situation. It is important to ensure your wishes are clear to both families within a blended family so they are played out properly in the long run. Having clear communication across a variety of different areas within your life will make the financial planning process as seamless as possible.
Blended Family Estate Planning
Managing estate planning in blended families can present unique challenges. When entering into a blended family, it is critical to sit down with your new spouse to discuss several important topics, including estate planning. Estate planning is important and can be challenging for everyone, but there can be some additional difficulties and hurdles when it comes to entering a blended family.
You need to have an honest conversation regarding what would happen if something were to happen to you. This does not only include death. If one of you were to get sick, who is going to make medical decisions for you? Who is going to be able to cash your checks, manage your investment accounts with your advisor, and have that financial power of attorney? In the instance that you were to pass away, it is important to consider where you want your assets divided. Will they go to your new spouse, prior children, or somewhere else?
While these conversations may be difficult, they are necessary to have with your new spouse when entering a blended family. If you need help getting started with these, reach out to your financial advisor. They will have resources available to help guide you through the estate planning process.
Merge or Keep Separate?
Again, upfront conversations with your new spouse may be uncomfortable but are necessary so you are on the same page heading for a successful future. Your finances should be part of these conversations, particularly whether you will keep your finances separate or merge them. We’ve seen success both ways, the decision really depends on how you both want to work.
If you do opt for separate accounts, you will want to be sure to have beneficiary designations on those accounts, have payable on death on your bank accounts, and any other necessary precautions in place so that if something were to happen to one of you, the other would still have access to important accounts. One common approach is to have one house account where you both contribute money to cover joint bills, but then keep your separate accounts for your own mad money. Regardless of what this decision will look like for you, clear communication is key to finding a balance that works for both partners.
Finding Your Unique Advisor
When entering into a blended family situation, no matter what your age is, you must find a financial advisor who caters to your unique needs. If you’re further along in your career, you may already have established financial habits long before you entered into this new marriage, making it even more important to find an advisor who can work with you to help you reach your unique goals in the long term.
Blakely Financial’s own Emily Promise is a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, CDFA®, Institute for Divorce Financial Analysts. With her experience, she can help guide you and your blended family toward a bright financial future together. Contact us today to get started.
Blakely Financial, Inc. is an independent financial planning and investment management firm that provides clarity, insight, and guidance to help our clients attain their financial goals. Engage with the entire Blakely Financial team at WWW.BLAKELYFINANCIAL.COM to see what other financial tips we can provide towards your financial well-being.
Commonwealth Financial Network® or Blakely Financial does not provide legal or tax advice. You should consult a legal or tax professional regarding your individual situation.
2024 Financial Planning Tips & Updates
At the start of a new year, it is critical to reevaluate your financial status and strategies as well as consider the changes in rules and regulations that may impact your financial well-being. In this blog, we’re sharing information and updates to help you navigate your 2024 financial planning.
Changes in Contribution Limits
The new year is the perfect time to review your employer benefits to make sure you are taking full advantage of everything offered to save for retirement. It is also crucial to review and understand any changes to contribution limits for the year. The following are changes for 2024 and should be factored into your 2024 financial planning:
- The contribution limit for employees who participate in 401(k), 403(b), and most 457 plans, as well as the federal government’s Thrift Savings Plan, increased to $23,000, up from $22,500.
- The limit on annual contributions to an IRA increased to $7,000, up from $6,500.
- The IRA catch‑up contribution limit for individuals aged 50 and over was amended under the SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022 (SECURE 2.0) to include an annual cost‑of‑living adjustment but remains $1,000 for 2024.
- The catch-up contribution limit for employees aged 50 and over who participate in 401(k), 403(b), and most 457 plans, as well as the federal government’s Thrift Savings Plan, remains $7,500 for 2024.
- There were also increases for SIMPLE and SEP contributions.
Social Security
In 2024, Social Security recipients will see their monthly payments rise by 3.2 percent. The maximum amount of earnings subject to the Social Security tax will increase to $168,600. The earnings limit for workers younger than full retirement age will increase to $22,320 and the earnings limit for people reaching their full retirement age will increase to $59,520.
Financial Planning as a Family Affair
Our concerns often extend beyond our immediate financial well-being to that of our family. Instilling financial responsibility and planning in our children to ensure they have a solid financial foundation is invaluable. Are your adult children entering the workforce and beginning to build their careers? If so, are they planning for their financial future? Encouraging your children to focus on financial planning is critical in promoting their financial security. A conversation with a financial advisor can help equip them with the knowledge necessary to make informed financial decisions to align with their objectives.
Additionally, it is essential to review your estate documents with your most current financial situation and goals in mind. Many things can change over the course of a year. Sit down with your financial advisor and review documents including wills, trusts, and beneficiaries. Do they still align with your current needs, wants, and wishes? If not, update your documents to prevent future complications and ensure a secure financial future and financial legacy for you and your family.
The Blakely Financial team is here to guide you through the financial planning process. Contact us today to get started. Together we can begin paving your path to a financially prosperous year.
Blakely Financial, Inc. is an independent financial planning and investment management firm that provides clarity, insight, and guidance to help our clients attain their financial goals. Engage with the entire Blakely Financial team at WWW.BLAKELYFINANCIAL.COM to see what other financial tips we can provide towards your financial well-being.
Commonwealth Financial Network® or Blakely Financial does not provide legal or tax advice. You should consult a legal or tax professional regarding your individual situation.
Your Guide to Year-End Financial Planning
As 2023 comes to a close, now is a great time to review your financial plan. With 2024 coming quickly, it’s crucial to reevaluate your financial objectives, consider any life changes impacting your finances, and stay informed about the latest tax and finance developments. Before your yearly financial advisement meeting, here are four areas to consider for your year-end financial planning.
Tax Planning Strategies
The first step in your guide to financial planning, as the year ends, is to nail down your tax planning strategies. First, be sure to understand and utilize any tax deductions and credits available to you. Investigate credits such as child tax credits, education credits, and energy efficiency credits. A financial professional can also help you discover and optimize various deductions and credits.
Additionally, reexamine your finances to see if you can reduce your taxable income in other ways. One way to do so is to defer your income. Deferred income refers to income you have received but not yet earned. This is common if you offer products or services and have received advance payments. Another way to reduce taxable income is by accelerating your donations. Giving multiple years worth of charitable contributions in one year can bring you closer to the threshold.
Accounts such as FSAs and HSAs can also offer tax relief. Talk to your financial advisor to see if you qualify. They can help you choose the best option for your unique financial situation, understand your balances, your rollover options, and how to maximize your contributions.
It is important to note that tax laws change frequently. Thoroughly research any tax law changes that will affect you over the upcoming year.
Investment Portfolio Review
When conducting your year-end financial review, give your investment portfolio a check-up. Assess risk tolerance and make adjustments accordingly. Strategize your stock options. Is selling in January 2024 more tax-efficient than doing so this year? You can also look for opportunities for tax loss harvesting. This would involve selling underperforming investments to offset gains, potentially reducing your taxable income. The rules surrounding tax-loss harvesting are complex, so it is best to seek professional advice before taking action. Your financial advisor can help you assess the timing for selling your stock as well as your best options for investment overall.
Retirement Planning
Year-end is a great time to fine-tune your retirement plans! Are you maxing out your retirement contributions? If you are not currently, it is worth considering, especially to leverage employer-match benefits in workplace plans or increase traditional IRA contributions. Contribution limits change annually, so make sure you are up to date with the latest rules.
Additionally, if you inherited an IRA, specific rules apply to you in regards to how much you have to take up annually, or if it’s your IRA and you’ve reached the required minimum distribution age, you also have to take out distributions.
Another consideration is Roth conversions. If your current tax bracket has room, converting traditional IRA savings into a Roth IRA might be beneficial. This strategy involves paying taxes upfront for tax-free growth later. Consult your advisor to see if this suits your long-term tax strategy.
Make sure that you’re balancing what you’re setting aside for retirement as well as taxable savings. You don’t want all your money in one bucket or the other!
Charitable Giving
The end of the year is often referred to as the season of giving – it’s a great time to look at your charitable giving. This can be a great thing to do from a tax perspective as well as to fulfill personal needs.
The first thing to do is look at donor-advised funds, which are a flexible aspect of charitable giving. You can put lump sums of cash and appreciated securities into a donor-advised fund. From there, you’re able to get a full tax deduction from the amount of money that you put into it. You’re able to give these funds out for however long you want to the charities of your choice.
If you’re at the required minimum distribution age, you can start a qualified charitable distribution (QCD). This allows you to take your RMD (required minimum distribution) and give it directly to the charity of your choice.
Generally, a donor-advised fund is a separately identified fund or account that is maintained and operated by a section 501(c)(3) organization, which is called a sponsoring organization. Each account is composed of contributions made by individual donors. Once the donor makes the contribution the organization has legal control over it. However, the donor, or the donor’s representative, retains advisory privileges with respect to the distribution of funds and the investment assets in the account. Donors take a tax deduction for all contributions at the time they are made, even though the money may not be dispersed to a charity until much later.
Are you ready to talk to a financial professional about your year-end financial planning? Contact Blakely Financial today to get started.
Blakely Financial, Inc. is an independent financial planning and investment management firm that provides clarity, insight, and guidance to help our clients attain their financial goals. Engage with the entire Blakely Financial team at WWW.BLAKELYFINANCIAL.COM to see what other financial tips we can provide towards your financial well-being.
Commonwealth Financial Network® or Blakely Financial does not provide legal or tax advice. You should consult a legal or tax professional regarding your individual situation.
National Fraud Awareness Week: Can You Spot the Fraud Warning Signs?
According to data from the FTC, consumers lost nearly $8.8 billion to fraud in 2022. The highest reported loss amount came from investment scams and imposter scams. National Fraud Awareness Week, taking place from November 12th through 18th, is an annual event meant to promote anti-fraud awareness and education in hopes of minimizing the impact of fraud. This week serves as a reminder that fraud can strike anyone, anywhere, at any time. Awareness is the first line of defense against fraud, and we are here to help you sharpen your fraud detection skills. Look out for the following fraud warning signs to protect yourself and your finances.
Unexpected Requests & Suspicious Contacts
One of the most prominent fraud warning signs is receiving unsolicited requests for your personal information. These requests can come through emails, phone calls, text messages, and more. The fraudsters will ask for sensitive personal data such as your Social Security number, credit card details, or passwords while posing as trusted individuals or organizations. They frequently use fake names, profiles, or email addresses to deceive fraud victims. Be wary of these requests and be sure to verify the legitimacy of any suspicious or unverified contacts before sharing your information with them or completing any financial transactions.
Payment in Unusual Forms
Is someone asking you for an unusual form of payment? These odd methods are more difficult to trace, and therefore a fraudster favorite:
- Gift cards
- Cryptocurrency
- Wire transfers
Always verify the legitimacy of requests for financial transactions, especially from unknown and unverified sources.
Too Good to Be True Offers
Messages promising extraordinary financial gains, immense discounts, or exclusive limited-time opportunities should be handled with caution. If you think an offer is too good to be true, it probably is. Fraudsters will try to lure you with these rewards, so carefully evaluate the offer before taking their bait. Remember, legitimate opportunities typically take time and effort before experiencing benefits and rarely promise instant and effortless wealth.
Urgent or High-Pressure Tactics
Urgent and high-pressure tactics are a common way fraudsters manipulate their victims. Limited time offers, immediate financial decisions, and threatening messages are all fraud warning signs. It is important to be cautious when someone tries to push you to make quick and financially significant choices without allowing time for proper consideration. If the source is legitimate, they will likely provide time to evaluate your options and make a decision best for you.
Unusual Account Activity
A crucial part of detecting fraud is closely monitoring your financial accounts. Keep an eye out for any unusual or unauthorized transactions on your bank and credit card statements. If you spot unfamiliar account activity, promptly report the incident to your financial institution as it could be a clear indication of fraudulent activity.
Another piece of unusual activity to look out for is any notifications of unexpected changes to your account information such as your passwords, email addresses, or contact details. Fraudsters may attempt to take control of your accounts by altering this information, so it is important to investigate promptly. Confirm any changes with the respective organization through a verified contact method when investigating.
Poorly Designed or Unprofessional Communications
Generally speaking, fraudsters are not investing in the aesthetics of their communications. If you receive a poorly designed or unprofessional email, document, or website, proceed with caution as it can be a fraud warning sign. Look out for mistakes in spelling and grammar, too. Legitimate organizations will typically maintain a professional, polished, and proofread online presence, so evaluate the quality of the materials you receive to help determine their legitimacy.
Remember, awareness is the key to fraud prevention, and it is a collective effort to educate. If you still have questions about spotting fraud warning signs, contact Blakely Financial today. We are happy to help you protect your finances.
Blakely Financial, Inc. is an independent financial planning and investment management firm that provides clarity, insight, and guidance to help our clients attain their financial goals. Engage with the entire Blakely Financial team at WWW.BLAKELYFINANCIAL.COM to see what other financial tips we can provide towards your financial well-being.
Commonwealth Financial Network® or Blakely Financial does not provide legal or tax advice. You should consult a legal or tax professional regarding your individual situation.
Debunking 5 Common Financial Planning Myths
Did you know only 74% of Americans partake in financial planning and 90% of people say financial planning helped them achieve their savings goals? Financial planning is for everyone, regardless of income level, as it plays a major role in achieving financial security in the long run. These common financial planning myths often prevent people from engaging in financial planning, and we’re here to debunk them.
Myth: It’s Too Late to Start Financial Planning
Don’t be fooled by this common financial planning myth – it’s never too late to begin financial planning! It is essential to recognize the power of starting now to ensure your financial security and well-being in the years to come. Even small steps can make a significant difference in achieving your financial goals, whether they are big or small. Talk to your financial advisor to begin your financial planning journey and see what steps you can take towards a secure future.
Myth: Financial Planning is All About Investments
While having a diverse investment portfolio is a critical aspect of your financial plan, the financial planning process does not solely involve investments. In reality, it encompasses many elements including the following (and more):
Work with your financial advisor to create a comprehensive plan based on your unique financial situation and goals. Utilize every tool in your financial toolbox to maximize your financial benefits long-term!
Myth: Financial Planning is Too Complicated
Financial planning can seem daunting, but your plan can be as simple or as complicated as you need it to be. You don’t need to be a financial expert with complex financial knowledge to create a basic financial plan! Simplify the process by breaking it down into more manageable steps. There are many resources and tools available for you to begin your plan, and financial advisors are here to assist you every step of the way.
Myth: Financial Planning is Only for Retirement
Financial planning encompasses life as a whole, not just retirement. The process can yield results important to various life stages and goals such as paying for education, buying a home, family vacations, or even simply financial security. Set short-term, mid-term, and long-term goals, and use your comprehensive financial plan to meet these objectives.
Myth: Financial Planning Guarantees Wealth
During the financial planning process, it is important to have realistic expectations for yourself and your finances. A financial plan can significantly improve financial well-being, but it does not guarantee instant wealth. By setting realistic and achievable financial goals, you have the opportunity to build your wealth over time.
A financial advisor can significantly improve your financial planning process and help you lay your path to achieving your financial goals and securing your financial future. Contact Blakely Financial today to get started.
Blakely Financial, Inc. is an independent financial planning and investment management firm that provides clarity, insight, and guidance to help our clients attain their financial goals. Engage with the entire Blakely Financial team at WWW.BLAKELYFINANCIAL.COM to see what other financial tips we can provide towards your financial well-being. Commonwealth Financial Network® or Blakely Financial does not provide legal or tax advice. You should consult a legal or tax professional regarding your individual situation.
Understanding Social Security Survivors Benefits
Social Security provides retirement income for workers in the United States by replacing a portion of their pre-retirement income based on their lifetime earnings. What happens to your benefits when you or an immediate family member passes? In this article, we explore how Social Security benefits can extend beyond your lifetime and support your loved ones as Social Security survivors benefits.
Defining Social Security Survivors Benefits
Social Security survivors benefits refer to the portion of Social Security funds set aside as a form of life insurance for widows, widowers, and any dependents of eligible workers. Funds begin being set aside from the day you start paying into your Social Security fund. There are two main determining factors when deciding on the presence and status of benefits: the deceased’s work history and the credits they have accumulated. The more years an individual works and is paying into the fund, the more credits they will earn, leaving a more significant benefit for loved ones to access after their passing. The number of credits needed to provide survivors benefits differs based on the worker’s age at the time of death. No one needs more than 40 credits to be eligible for Social Security benefits, so with the ability to earn up to 4 credits per year, anyone working and contributing to Social Security for at least 10 years is eligible. Each situation is different. For more insight, talk to a Social Security claims representative about your situation and choices.
Who qualifies for these benefits?
If you meet the necessary work requirements, different family members may be eligible to collect survivors benefits including:
- Spouse
- Ex-spouse
- Children under a certain age
- Parents over the age of 62 and dependent on your income
It is possible to have multiple survivors benefits within a single family but the amount that can be drawn for each within a single household is capped by the maximum family benefit. The percentage of benefits they receive will vary as follows, according to the Social Security Administration:
- Spouse or ex-spouse, full retirement age or older: 100%
- Spouse or ex-spouse, age 60 through full retirement age: 71.5% – 99%
- Spouse or ex-spouse with a disability, age 50 – 59: 71.5%
- Spouse or ex-spouse caring for a child under age 16: 75%
- Child under age 18 or who has a disability: 75%
- Single surviving dependent parent: 82.5%
- Both surviving dependent parents: 75% to each parent
Taxes and Optimizing Payout
Survivors benefits can be claimed even if the person making the claim is currently working. The amount may be reduced based on multiple factors including the survivor’s age and income. When you receive benefits of any kind, it is important to factor in taxes. The amount paid in taxes is determined by a calculation of combined income, which is defined as your adjusted gross income (AGI), plus nontaxable interest, plus half of your Social Security benefits.
When filing as a single individual if your combined income is:
- Below $25,000: Your Social Security benefits are not taxed
- $25,000 – $34,000: 50% of your Social Security benefits are taxable
- Over $34,000: 85% of your Social Security benefits are taxable
When filing status is married filing jointly if your combined income is:
- $32,000 – $44,000: 50% of your Social Security benefits are taxable
- Over $44,000: 85% of your Social Security benefits are taxable
Children may be subject to taxes on benefits if they hold trust accounts or brokerage funds.
Someone already receiving their own Social Security benefits must choose between those and survivors benefits, they can not take both. Like retirement benefits, waiting until age 67 allows the payment amount to increase annually. Delaying survivors benefits may result in a larger payout overall than delaying your own Social Security. Talk to a financial professional to work out which option will have the highest payout.
How to Apply for Social Security Survivors Benefits
Social Security survivors benefits are not automatic, you will need to go through a formal application process which can be completed by phone, online, or in person at a Social Security Administration office. Documents you will need to complete the process include:
- Proof of death of your loved one
- Birth certificate, for both you and your loved one
- Proof of US citizenship, for both you and your loved one
- Your loved one’s W-2 form or self-employment tax returns for last year
- A marriage certificate, as a spouse
- A final decree of divorce, as an ex-spouse
- For other circumstances, other documents may be required
If you need assistance throughout the filing process, you are able to go into a Social Security Administration office either by yourself or with an advisor to work with a representative on your case.
Contact Blakely Financial today to learn more about your Social Security survivors benefits.
Blakely Financial, Inc. is an independent financial planning and investment management firm that provides clarity, insight, and guidance to help our clients attain their financial goals. Engage with the entire Blakely Financial team at WWW.BLAKELYFINANCIAL.COM to see what other financial tips we can provide towards your financial well-being.
Commonwealth Financial Network® or Blakely Financial does not provide legal or tax advice. You should consult a legal or tax professional regarding your individual situation.
March Market Update 2023
Join Steve LaFrance, CFP® with Blakely Financial as he updates you on the last 3 months in 3 minutes.
January Market Update 2023
Join Steve LaFrance, CFP® with Blakely Financial as he updates you on the last month in 3 minutes.
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