PAYING OFF DEBT VERSUS INVESTING

Posted by Brad Bridgewater
On February 17, 2017

A common question faced by many of our clients at this time of year is whether it is better to take lump sums such as tax refunds and bonuses to pay off debt or invest for the future. The answer depends on your individual circumstances, but the following are some considerations that can help you […]

AVOIDING THE BANDWAGON EFFECT

Posted by Michael Kane, CFP
On February 10, 2017

“The ‘bandwagon effect’ is evident in almost every facet of modern life, but it’s especially notable in the way people spend and manage their money.” In 1848, entertainer Dan Rice used his bandwagon (literally a wagon that carried bands in parades) to campaign at political events. He encouraged rally attendees to “jump on the bandwagon” […]

TIPS FOR REDUCING YOUR TAX BILL

Posted by Brad Bridgewater
On February 3, 2017

With spring comes the anticipation of warmer weather and flowers in bloom. Unfortunately, spring also finds a lot of us scrambling to answer two important questions: How do I reduce my current tax bill, and what can I do to reduce next year’s tax bill? Here are some tips to help you reduce your liability […]

SEVEN KEY ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF A TRUSTEE

Posted by Michael Kane, CFP
On January 27, 2017

As the title suggests, the job of a trustee requires a person to perform certain duties in a way that is honest, ethical, and trustworthy. While a designated trustee has many responsibilities, the most important thing to remember, should you step into this role, is that the assets you are safeguarding are not yours. Rather, […]

2018 TAX UPDATES

Posted by Kristi Cherry
On January 26, 2017

RAA has expanded our services to include tax return preparation and tax planning, and as a result, I am very happy to join the RAA team to help you with your tax-related needs. As we begin the 2018 tax year, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 will historically change deductions, exemptions, and other important […]

THREE SMALL CHANGES TO MAKE YOU A BETTER INVESTOR

Posted by Brad Bridgewater
On January 20, 2017

There was a time when making wise investment decisions was a much less complicated process. You stashed away some money in your 401(k) and maybe invested in CDs or savings bonds that offered modest but consistent returns. But modern financial markets and the nearly limitless choices they offer have made investing more complex and raised […]

THE RIGHT WAY TO SET A BUDGET

Posted by Brad Bridgewater
On December 21, 2016

The holiday season and the approach of a new year often bring about resolutions to make improvements in our daily lives – healthy eating, spending more time with family, or exercising on a regular basis. One of the most common goals is an improved financial situation. For some, that means spending less and saving more, […]

THINGS YOU CAN CONTROL IN YOUR FINANCIAL PLAN

Posted by Michael Kane, CFP
On December 2, 2016

Just as a successful flight includes many complex and moving parts, an effective financial plan requires several considerations. When approaching the construction of a financial plan, you will learn that there are things that you have a great deal of control, things you have some control, and also things that you have no control over. […]

6 ITEMS TO INCLUDE IN YOUR ESTATE PLAN

Posted by Brad Bridgewater
On November 23, 2016

Perhaps no other aspect of retirement planning is as overwhelming as creating an estate plan. It’s hard to anticipate every eventuality, and it’s even harder to make decisions regarding your family’s future that doesn’t include you. For these reasons, along with the intense emotions that accompany facing their own mortality, many people don’t take the […]

5 CONSIDERATIONS FOR TAKING CARE OF AGING PARENTS

Posted by Michael Kane, CFP
On November 18, 2016

We speak with many clients who have one or more children of their own and who are also be helping to care for their aging parents. This assistance can include time, financial support, and even various forms of guardianship. It goes without saying that these commitments can create an emotional and financial strain on any […]