Investing Archives - Blakely Financial

Year in Review: Financial News

Posted on December 12, 2024 by Emily Promise

As 2024 draws to a close, it is the perfect time to reflect on the year’s financial news and developments that have influenced individuals, businesses, and markets alike. From tax adjustments to changes in policies and trends, these key financial updates have posed both challenges and opportunities throughout the last year.

Tax Updates

2024 saw significant adjustments in tax laws, providing new opportunities for individuals and families to save. Here are a few:

Higher Standard Deduction: For 2024, the standard deduction increased to $29,200 for married couples filing jointly, $14,600 for single taxpayers and married individuals filing separately, and $21,900 for heads of household.
EV Tax Credits Enhanced: Buyers of qualifying electric vehicles (EVs) now have the option to transfer the federal $7,500 EV tax credit to the dealer at the time of purchase, lowering the upfront cost of the car. This simplifies the process for buyers and incentivizes eco-friendly choices!
Retirement Contributions: Contribution limits for IRAs and workplace retirement accounts increased again in 2024. Individuals can now contribute up to $7,000 to traditional and Roth IRAs, with an additional $1,000 catch-up contribution for those over 50. The contribution cap for 401(k)s increased to $23,000, with an additional $7,500 for catch-up contributions.

Medicare Costs Rise

Medicare Part B premiums saw a 6% increase in 2024, rising to $174.70 per month and reversing the prior year’s decrease. Additionally, the deductible for Part B increased from $226 to $240. While some Medicare Advantage and Part D plans experienced slight adjustments, the changes highlight ongoing concerns about the affordability of healthcare.

Retirement Policy Shifts

Retirement planning experienced several notable changes including:

Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs): As part of the SECURE 2.0 Act, the age to begin RMDs remained at 73 for 2024.
HSA Contribution Limits: Health Savings Account (HSA) contribution limits reached record highs in 2024, with individuals able to contribute up to $4,150 and families up to $8,300, reflecting the growing importance of HSAs in healthcare and retirement planning.

Inflation and Interest Rates

Inflation rates in 2024 remained more stable compared to the highs of 2022 and 2023. However, the Federal Reserve maintained its cautious stance by keeping interest rates elevated, aiming to curb any lingering inflationary pressures while ensuring economic growth. This policy reinforced the need for strategic financial planning with many borrowing costs, including mortgages, auto loans, business investments, and more.

Real Estate Market Dynamics

Throughout 2024, the real estate market remained challenging due to the high interest rates. Homebuyers faced affordability issues as mortgage rates stayed above 7% for much of the year, leading to slower home sales and increased demand for rental properties. Sellers in competitive markets still benefitted, but many opted to wait for rates to drop before listing their homes.

It’s critical to stay informed and proactive when it comes to policy updates and your finances. At Blakely Financial, we are here to help you navigate these changes and plan for a healthy financial future. If you have questions or need guidance on how these 2024 financial updates may impact your goals, contact us today.

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.

5 Financial Frauds to Watch Out For

Posted on November 6, 2024 by Emily Promise

Fraud Week falls in November, and we’re here to help you stay one step ahead. Did you know nearly 30% of Americans fell victim to fraud in the past year? With the rise of digital transactions and online communication, fraudsters are constantly coming up with new ways to target unsuspecting individuals. It is important to stay vigilant and keep your accounts secure. Protecting your finances is crucial to securing your future, and at Blakely Financial, your financial safety is our priority. From phishing scams to tax fraud, here are the top five financial frauds to watch out for and tips on how to avoid them.

Phishing Scams

Phishing scams are one of the most common types of fraud, where scammers pretend to be a legitimate entity, such as your bank, a government agency, or even friends and family. They typically send out emails, texts, or social media messages designed to look real, asking for sensitive information like your Social Security number, credit card details, or login credentials. There are many types of phishing scams including:

Email Phishing: Emails appearing to be from a legitimate company but contain links to fake websites.
Smishing: Text messages often urging you to click a link or respond.
Vishing: Voice phishing, where scammers call you pretending to be from a legitimate institution.
Spear Phishing: Targeted phishing attacks aimed specifically at you, often using information about you to appear more convincing.

To avoid falling victim to phishing scams, always verify the sender’s email or phone number. If you receive an unexpected message from a company or other institution, contact them directly through their official website or phone number to confirm.

Identity Theft

Identity theft occurs when fraudsters steal your personal information, such as your Social Security number, driver’s license, or bank account details, to open accounts or make purchases in your name. This can lead to significant financial losses and a damaged credit score, as well as the hassle of resolving other issues it creates.

Avoid this financial fraud by regularly monitoring your credit report and bank statements. Check for any unfamiliar accounts or charges and report them immediately if found. You are entitled to a free credit report from each of the three major bureaus annually, and more information on how to get these reports can be found on the FTC website. Setting up fraud alerts or credit freezes can also add an extra layer of protection to your finances!

Investment Scams

Investment scams often promise extremely high returns with little to no risk. With this type of financial fraud, scammers may offer exclusive opportunities, insider information, or “guaranteed” profits to lure you into investing. Unfortunately these “too good to be true” investments often are, and can lead to significant financial losses.

To steer clear of investment scams, be sure to research any investment opportunity thoroughly before committing. Check with trusted financial sources, such as your financial advisor, or verify with the SEC’s Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website to ensure the company and representatives are registered and have a clean track record. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Credit Card Fraud

Credit card fraud occurs when unauthorized charges are made on your card or when a scammer opens a new credit card in your name. This can damage your credit score and lead to unexpected financial liability. With more people using credit cards for online purchases, credit card fraud has become increasingly common.

To limit your chances of credit card fraud, check your credit card statements monthly and report anything suspicious to your bank or card issuer immediately. Many banks and credit card companies offer fraud alerts or allow you to monitor transactions in real time through their apps, making it easier to catch fraudulent charges early.

Tax Fraud

Tax fraud involves scammers posing as the IRS or other tax authorities to obtain sensitive information or payments from you. They may threaten legal action or claim you owe back taxes, urging you to pay immediately through unconventional methods like gift cards or wire transfers. The IRS has a clear policy that they never contact taxpayers by phone or demand immediate payment.

Tax fraud is relatively simple to avoid as the IRS typically communicates by mail and will never call, text, or email to demand payment or ask for your personal information. If you receive a suspicious message claiming to be from the IRS, ignore it and report it to the IRS through their fraud reporting site.

Fraud Awareness Week serves as a reminder to stay vigilant and informed about the evolving tactics used by scammers. Protecting yourself from financial fraud requires awareness, diligence, and quick action when something seems off. At Blakely Financial, we’re dedicated to helping you keep your finances secure. If you have any questions about securing your finances or want to learn more about fraud prevention, reach out to our team today. Together, we can work to build a safe and secure financial foundation.

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.

Beware of the Financial Skeletons in Your Closet

Posted on October 8, 2024October 8, 2024 by Steve LaFrance

We all have financial habits or forgotten accounts hiding in the shadows, going unnoticed until they start causing trouble. These “financial skeletons” can slowly drain your wealth, create stress, and keep you from achieving your financial goals. At Blakely Financial, we’re here to remind you of these financial skeletons in your closet and help you uncover smarter ways to grow and maintain your wealth.

Stagnant Savings Accounts

Leaving your money in a stagnant savings account is like burying it in a cursed chest that only loses its shine. While your savings may feel secure, leaving your money in a low-interest account can slowly drain its value over time, thanks to inflation. Move your money to a more lucrative spot before inflation turns your savings into dust!

Savings accounts are valuable for short-term liquidity and emergency funds but to build long-term wealth, consider a diverse variety of investments including stocks, bonds, real estate, and more.

Underfunded Emergency Fund

An underfunded emergency fund is the financial boogeyman hiding under your bed. You may not see it, but you never know when a financial surprise will creep up—a medical emergency, car repair, or unexpected expense can strike at any moment. Without a well-funded emergency fund, you could find yourself scrambling to cover the cost, leaving your financial stability on shaky ground.

We recommend building an emergency fund with 3 to 6 months’ worth of expenses saved to provide peace of mind when life throws you a curveball. Create good saving habits by making consistent contributions to your fund and regularly monitoring your progress. Even small contributions will get you closer to financial security!

Neglected Retirement Accounts

Beware the dusty tombs of your forgotten retirement accounts! Left unchecked, these relics from the past can become financial traps full of hidden fees and poor investments. If you’ve hopped from job to job over the years, you may have left behind old 401(k)s or retirement accounts without a second thought. These forgotten accounts can quietly lose value with missed growth, hidden fees, or poor investment performance, leaving your future at risk. Don’t let your golden years turn into a financial nightmare – unearth those accounts and bring them back to life!

You have a few options for old employer retirement accounts including keeping them with your old employer’s plan, rolling your 401(k) over into an IRA or into your new employer’s plan, and cashing out. All options have benefits and disadvantages, so it is important to understand and weigh your options. Talking to your financial advisor can help you figure out which is best for you and your unique financial situation.

From high-yield savings accounts to strategic investments, we’ll make sure your money is working for you, not wasting away as financial skeletons in your closet. Contact the Blakely Financial team 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.

Building Wealth: Owning Real Estate

Posted on September 5, 2024October 4, 2024 by Steve LaFrance

Owning real estate has long been regarded as a key strategy for accumulating wealth. For high-net-worth individuals and experienced investors, real estate offers distinct opportunities to not only preserve wealth but also generate substantial returns. In this blog, we will explore how residential real estate can be used to build wealth and diversify your investment portfolio.

Long-Term Benefits of Owning Real Estate

-Owning real estate offers significant advantages, particularly for those seeking long-term stability and growth. Whether you’re purchasing a primary residence or acquiring an investment property, both approaches can provide substantial returns. In the case of an investment property, you benefit from the ability to write off operational expenses, reducing your taxable income while capitalizing on property appreciation rates, which often outpace inflation in high-demand areas.

For high-end real estate, appreciation is typically more pronounced, driven by market exclusivity and demand for luxury living. Premium properties can see appreciation well beyond the average 3-5% per year, particularly in top-tier markets. Additionally, luxury real estate can serve as a hedge against market volatility, offering a tangible asset class. By diversifying into real estate, you can help mitigate risk and have potential for steady, long-term returns.

Short-Term Benefits of Strategic Property Investments

High-net-worth investors can also benefit from short-term real estate strategies. One option is acquiring properties in need of renovation, transforming them into high-end homes, and selling at a significant profit—a practice known as “flipping.” However, for those with a long-term wealth-building mindset, another approach is acquiring multi-family residences, living in one unit, and renting out the others.

This strategy not only provides immediate rental income but also offers a tax-efficient way to expand your real estate holdings while benefiting from lower primary residence interest rates. Over time, as you make strategic improvements, you increase the property’s value and rental income potential. By repeating this process across multiple properties, you can build a robust real estate portfolio with relatively modest initial capital.

Enhancing Your Wealth Through Real Estate

Whether you are looking to expand your portfolio with luxury real estate or explore high-end investment properties, Blakely Financial is here to support your financial goals. We understand the unique needs of high-net-worth individuals and can provide strategic guidance on integrating real estate into your comprehensive wealth management strategy.

Contact us today to discover how investing in real estate can elevate your financial plan and help you achieve long-term financial success.

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.

The Benefits of Investing in a Second Home

Posted on June 10, 2024June 10, 2024 by Robert Blakely

Owning a second home is not just about having a getaway spot – it’s a strategic investment offering multiple financial and personal benefits. Whether it’s a beachfront condo, a mountain cabin, or a house in a serene village, we’re exploring the multifaceted benefits of investing in a second home.

Investment Potential

Investing in a second home can be a smart financial move. Many properties, especially those in sought-after vacation destinations not only hold their value but also appreciate over time. This appreciation paired with choosing the right location and maintaining the property well can turn your second property into an increasingly valuable asset in your long-term investment strategy as years pass.

Rental Income

One of the most appealing aspects of owning a second home is the opportunity to generate income through rentals. When you are not using the property, you can rent it out to travelers or even long-term tenants. This rental income can help cover the cost of the mortgage, necessary maintenance, and property taxes, allowing you to own and maintain this additional property with minimal personal expense. If your vacation home is in a popular destination, it can command high rental prices, especially during peak tourist seasons, and provide you with substantial supplemental income.

Tax Deductions

Second homes can also offer tax advantages. As the property owner you have the potential to enjoy tax deductions on mortgage interest and property taxes, much like with your primary residence. These tax benefits can help make owning a second home more affordable while also easing your overall tax burden. It is important to speak with a tax professional to fully understand and maximize these benefits based on your own unique financial situation and both local and national tax laws.

Diversified Assets

Diversifying your investment portfolio is a fundamental strategy used to mitigate risk, and real estate plays a vital role in this diversification. Investing in different types of properties in various locations allows you to reduce the risks associated with market fluctuations in any single investment area. A second home adds a tangible asset to your portfolio, which is often less volatile when compared to stocks and other financial investments.

Customizable Vacations and Family Gatherings

Aside from the financial benefits, a second home provides a personal retreat tailored to your preferences. It eliminates the hassle of booking hotels or dealing with the uncertainties of vacation rentals and other accommodations. More importantly, it serves as a consistent gathering place for family and friends, helping to build cherished memories in a familiar setting. Owning a second home ultimately means customizable vacations where the only thing you need to plan is how to enjoy your time!

Retirement Preparation

For many, a second home is not just used as a spot to vacation or retreat but also as a potential retirement destination. When purchasing a second home during your working years you can also transition it into your ideal retirement residence. This approach allows you to become acclimated to the community and area you wish to retire in and gives you the advantage of planning ahead for the lifestyle you wish to live in retirement.

Second homes present a unique blend of investment opportunity and personal sanctuary. Contact Blakely Financial today to see how a second home can enhance your financial plan!

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.

Investing in Your Graduate’s Future: Planting Seeds for Long-Term Success

Posted on May 2, 2024May 10, 2024 by Robert Blakely

Graduation is right around the corner! It’s an exciting time to celebrate your child’s accomplishments and look ahead to their future. As a parent, you play a crucial role in setting them up for success, and one of the best ways to do so is by investing in their future. There are countless ways to sow the seeds for long-term financial security and prosperity. In this blog, we are delving into ways you can invest in your graduate’s future journey today, so they can watch the returns flourish in years to come.

Roth IRA Contributions

Consider starting a Roth IRA for your child if they’ve earned income. A Roth IRA offers tax-free growth and withdrawals in retirement, providing a valuable tool for building financial security over the long term. By making contributions to a Roth IRA early on in your child’s life, you can leverage the power of compounding growth and set them on the path to a comfortable retirement. While Roth IRAs can also be used for educational expenses, in order to withdraw money without being charged taxes or penalties, you must be over 59 ½ years old and the account must be at least five years old.

529 College Savings Plan

Investing in a 529 college savings plan is an excellent option to support your child’s educational goals. These plans offer tax-free growth and withdrawals for qualified education expenses, making them a tax-efficient way to save for college. Parents are not the only people eligible to contribute, allowing family and friends to give a lasting gift to the beneficiary’s future.

Whether your child plans to attend a traditional four-year college or university or pursue vocational training, a 529 plan can help ease the financial burden of higher education and provide valuable opportunities for their future. If your child receives a scholarship or decides against further eligible education, 529 savings plans offer the flexibility to change the beneficiary to avoid paying taxes and fees on unused savings.

Custodial Accounts (UTMA/UGMA)

Opening a custodial account, such as a Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA) or Uniform Gifts to Minors Act (UGMA), allows you to invest in stocks, bonds, or mutual funds on behalf of your child. These accounts are a great investment option because they offer flexibility and control, allowing you to manage the assets until your child reaches adulthood (at 18 or 21, depending on the state). Introducing your child to the world of investing early on can help them develop valuable financial literacy skills and set them up for financial success in the years to come.

Additionally, the funds can be used for the minor’s benefit before they take control of the account, including to help pay for college! Earnings are taxed at the minor’s tax rate, subject to kiddie tax rules. Before pursuing custodial accounts, talk to a financial professional to confirm which tax rules apply and how to best manage the funds.

Financial Literacy Education

Investing in your child’s financial education is perhaps one of the most valuable investments you can make. Providing access to resources and courses on financial literacy from a young age can equip your child with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage and grow their finances effectively. From budgeting and saving to investing and retirement planning, a strong foundation in financial literacy sets the stage for a lifetime of financial success.

As graduation season approaches, now is the perfect time to start investing in your graduate’s future. Regardless of the investment options you choose, every investment you make lays the groundwork for their long-term success. By contributing to your child’s journey to financial literacy and prosperity today, you can help create a bright and prosperous future for your graduate tomorrow. If you need assistance getting started, contact Blakely Financial today. Our team is here to help you discover the best investment options and work towards a secure financial future for you and your family.

The fees, expenses, and features of 529 plans can vary from state to state. 529 plans involve investment risk, including the possible loss of funds. There is no guarantee that an education-funding goal will be met. In order to be federally tax free, earnings must be used to pay for qualified education expenses. The earnings portion of a nonqualified withdrawal will be subject to ordinary income tax at the recipient’s marginal rate and subject to a 10 percent penalty. By investing in a plan outside your state of residence, you may lose any state tax benefits. 529 plans are subject to enrollment, maintenance, and administration/management fees and expenses.

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.

Quiz: How Financially Literate Are You?

Posted on April 9, 2024April 9, 2024 by Emily Promise

As we recognize Financial Literacy Month, we must assess our knowledge and understanding of key financial concepts that impact our daily lives such as budgeting, investing, borrowing, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just beginning your financial journey, this quiz offers an opportunity to reflect on your financial knowledge and take steps toward improving your financial literacy. Are you ready to see where you stand? Dive into our Financial Literacy Month quiz and put your knowledge to the test!

What is the effect of compound interest on an investment over time?

Decreases the total amount of interest earned
Increases the total amount of interest earned by adding interest to the principal and accumulated interest
Has no effect on the total amount of interest earned
Only applies to savings accounts

Correct Answer: 2

Compound interest allows you to earn interest not only on the initial principal amount invested but also on the accumulated interest from previous periods. Over time, this compounding effect results in the exponential growth of your investment, significantly increasing the total amount of interest earned.

Why is diversification important in an investment portfolio?

It guarantees a fixed return on investment
It reduces risk by spreading investments across various asset classes
It focuses investment in one sector to maximize returns
It ensures all investments will profit

Correct Answer: 2

The process of diversification involves spreading your investments across different asset classes to minimize risk. These may include stocks, bonds, and real estate. By diversifying your investment portfolio, you can mitigate the impact of adverse events affecting any single asset or sector. This will help stabilize returns and potentially improve long-term performance. If you’re struggling to diversify your investments, meet with your financial advisor to discuss your options.

Which of the following accounts offers tax-deferred growth?

Checking account
Certificate of Deposit (CD)
401(k) or Traditional IRA
Brokerage Account

Correct Answer: 3

Tax-deferred growth refers to the ability of investments to grow without being taxed until withdrawal. Both 401(k) plans and Traditional IRAs offer tax-deferred growth, allowing your investments to compound over time without being subject to immediate taxation on earnings. Everyone’s financial situation is unique, so be sure to talk to your financial advisor to be sure you are taking advantage of the best plans and accounts for you.

What is a “bull market”?

A market characterized by declining stock prices
A market in which stock prices are remaining stable
A market characterized by rising stock prices
A market that exclusively trades in agricultural stocks

Correct Answer: 3

A bull market is a period characterized by rising stock prices and investor optimism. During a bull market, investor confidence is high, leading to increased buying activity and upward momentum in stock prices across the market.

What does a fixed-rate mortgage offer that a variable-rate mortgage does not?

A mortgage rate that changes with the market
Lower interest rates over the life of the loan
The same interest rate and monthly payment throughout the life of the loan
Higher borrowing limits

Correct Answer: 3

A fixed-rate mortgage offers borrowers the security of a consistent, or fixed, interest rate and monthly payment throughout the life of the loan. In contrast, a variable-rate mortgage will have interest rates that fluctuate with market conditions, resulting in varying monthly payments and potentially higher levels of financial uncertainty for borrowers. Talk to your financial advisor to sort out which option is best for you and your financial health.

Whether you aced every question and passed with flying colors or found new areas to explore, taking the time to assess your financial literacy is a valuable step toward financial empowerment. Remember, financial literacy is an ongoing journey, and there’s always room to learn and grow.

If you found any questions throughout the quiz challenging or would like to delve deeper into any topics, contact the Blakely Financial team today. We are ready to help you navigate your financial journey with confidence! For additional resources and insights designed to boost your financial understanding, check out the Blakely Financial website.

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.

Monstrous Money Mistakes

Posted on September 27, 2023September 27, 2023 by Robert Blakely

It may be the season of spooky haunts and horrors, but don’t let these monstrous money mistakes lead you to the financial graveyard!

Investment Zombies

Don’t neglect your investment strategies. Just like zombies mindlessly wander, not actively managing investments can lead to missed opportunities or poor performance, even for high earners. Revisit and reevaluate your investment portfolio periodically to be sure you are diversifying your investments and maximizing your returns. Talking to your financial advisor can help you avoid an investment zombie apocalypse.

Estate Planning Ghouls

Failing to create a comprehensive estate plan can haunt families after a high-earning individual passes away. This mistake can lead to unnecessary taxes, legal battles, and confusion over asset distribution. Meet with your financial professional to discuss the best estate planning options for you and your loved ones. Review your plan annually and make adjustments to reflect any life changes that may occur.

Lifestyle Vampire

This monstrous money mistake involves succumbing to lifestyle inflation. High earners might start spending excessively as their income rises, without properly considering the long-term impact on savings and investments. Don’t bite off more than you can chew with your spending. It is crucial to find a balance between your desired lifestyle and your long-term financial goals and well-being to really enjoy life to the fullest.

Debt Demons

Credit card ghouls, student loan specters, and mortgage monstrosities. Oh my! These debt demons come in many forms and can feel like never-ending financial nightmares if not managed properly. Be sure to explore interest rates and different repayment options to pay down your debt, and even consider refinancing your loans or mortgage to make payments more manageable. Utilizing a budget can help you do this more easily. Exorcize these debt demons and keep control of your financial future!

Budget Banshee

You’ll hear the eerie wails of the budget banshees if you neglect proper budgeting. The shrieks serve as haunting reminders of overspending, impulse purchases, debt, disorganized finances, and unexpected expenses. Create a budget unique to your financial situation by tracking your income and expenses and establishing your financial goals. Explore where you may be able to save and remain disciplined when it comes to your spending. Don’t forget to factor an emergency fund into your budgeting to cushion the impact of any unexpected financial shock! Evaluate your financial health routinely and adjust your budget accordingly to banish the budget banshees.

If you need help battling these monstrous money mistakes, contact Blakely Financial today.

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.

Optimizing Your 401(k) Contributions

Posted on August 24, 2023August 25, 2023 by Robert Blakely

What is a 401(k) plan?

A 401(k) plan is a company-sponsored retirement plan that allows eligible employees to contribute a portion of their salary to a variety of investment options. 401(k) contributions are typically “before tax” money, meaning the amount you choose to contribute is deducted from your paycheck before taxes are taken out and you are paying taxes on a smaller portion of your salary.

Many plans also offer options for employees to make post-tax ROTH 401(k) contributions from their paychecks. Post-tax ROTH contributions do not lower an employee’s taxable income, but they do grow tax-free and aren’t taxed upon withdrawal.

An additional benefit of a 401(k) plan is that when you finally pay the taxes on your 401(k) contributions, you may be at a lower rate. Typically, you begin withdrawing money from your 401(k) when you retire and you may very well be in a lower tax bracket at that time; thus you could end up paying less tax on your savings when you do eventually withdraw funds.

If your company offers a 401(k) plan and you are not participating, you may want to revisit your decision as they are a great opportunity and an easy way to save for the future. If you have just entered the workforce, retirement may be the last thing on your mind. Or if you are an older employee nearing retirement, you might be thinking it is too late. At any stage of life, 401(k)s can offer specific advantages that make them a great option for investing and saving.

Making the Most of Your 401(k) Contributions

Many employers offer matching contributions to 401(k)s. For example, your employer may offer a 4 percent match, where they will contribute the same amount you do, up to 4 percent. While this is their limit, you can personally contribute more. If you are not contributing to your company’s 401(k) plan and they have a match, you are leaving money on the table! Don’t be concerned if you cannot contribute the maximum amount to your retirement plan. Simply participating in an employer-sponsored plan puts you in a great position for a successful retirement, especially if you start early. If you are unsure about the specifics of your company’s plan, take the time to read over it thoroughly, perhaps with your financial advisor, so you can make the most of your money.

Combined Savings Strategy

A large number of people find success in a combined savings strategy using both a 401(k) and an IRA to truly maximize their retirement funds. A study conducted by the Employee Benefit Research Institute (2020) found that, on average, individuals who owned both a 401(k) and an IRA at some point during the six years of the survey had combined balances about 2.5 times higher than those who owned only a 401(k) or an IRA. People who owned both types of accounts consistently over the period had even higher balances. Talk to a financial advisor to explore your options and decide which is best for you based on your own income and circumstances.

A Few Key Points to Remember about 401(k)s

It is a retirement savings plan, so once you put money in it is best to leave it in.
There are penalties if you take the money out before retirement age.
If you change employers you can roll your vested balance into your new employer’s 401(k) plan or into another qualifying retirement account such as an IRA.

No matter what, take advantage of any type of savings plan your current employer offers as the earlier and more aggressive you are, the closer you will come to achieving your financial goals. If you have questions, it is always a great idea to call a financial advisor for guidance. Contact the Blakely Financial team today to get started saving for your future.

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.

Securing Your Future: Tips for a Successful College Planning Journey

Posted on July 15, 2023July 31, 2023 by Emily Promise

Education expenses represent a significant financial commitment that accompanies us throughout our lives. Whether you’re considering having children in the future or you have teens nearing college age, we are here to equip you with essential knowledge and guidance for success in education planning.

Plan Based on Career Development

Work with your children to create a plan based on career development. When it comes to selecting a college, it is crucial to consider schools with programs and styles that align with future goals and aspirations. While small details are important, keep your eyes on the big picture: future success! Research the schools your children are considering and be sure to explore the degree programs each school offers to ensure they are properly equipped to help develop the skills and knowledge needed. The right college can make all the difference!

Private vs Public Universities

When selecting a school, it is important to understand the details of the school and program. Each college or university offers a different price level dependent on many factors including program length, region/state, and type of educational institution.

One of the most significant differences will be whether the school is public or private. Public colleges are mainly government-funded. They tend to have a wider selection of programs, more research opportunities, and a larger student body. Private colleges rely heavily on tuition, fees, donations, and endowments for funding and can be either for-profit or non-profit organizations. They often have more money available for grants and scholarships in addition to federal financial aid.

The following are the estimated average costs of a full year of college at private and public colleges (via LendingTree):

Community college (public, in-state): $4,864
Community college (public, out-of-state): $8,622
Private community college: $15,460
Public two-year (in-district): $17,580
Public four-year (in-state): $25,290
Public four-year (out-of-state): $40,940
Private four-year: $50,900

College Savings Plan

A college savings plan is a crucial piece of the college planning puzzle and the foundation of any successful college financing plan. Think of your savings as a down payment on the total cost of college, similar to a down payment on a large purchase like a car or a home.

Only 33% of families use a college savings plan to save for their child’s education. Whether you’re a new parent or already have children nearing their college years, it’s never too early or late to start saving to give them the best opportunities for success. Setting aside money over a long period of time takes discipline and even sacrifice, but can yield surprisingly positive results when done regularly. Work with a trusted financial advisor to help you navigate the process and create a plan tailored to your own goals and budget.

Financial Aid

Financial aid is a broad term for money used to help pay for college. It can include loans, grants, scholarships, and work-study funds. Ideally, you want to get the most from grants and scholarships to therefore have the least amount of loans possible.

Colleges are the largest source of grant aid, with annual awards based on both need and merit. The federal government has two central grants, the Pell Grant, and the Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, which are reserved for those with high financial need. The federal government’s main contribution to financial aid is student loans, both Direct Subsidized and Direct Unsubsidized, which are available to all students regardless of their financial needs.

Many colleges will have a net price calculator available on their website which can be used to estimate how much grant aid a student will receive from the school based on their financial and academic information. Use this to compare your estimated out-of-pocket cost at several schools and factor affordability into your college planning decisions.

College is a significant investment, and understanding the financial aspects from college funding to school selection is crucial. The Blakely Financial team is here to help. Contact us today to get your college planning journey 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.