Latest Posts

Want Your Kids to go to College? What Should You Really Expect?

by Stacy Brasher on Mar 4, 2021

It’s no secret to any parent with aspirations of sending their children to college that the cost of doing so is quickly inching beyond the reach of even the most affluent families. According to the College Board, which surveys college pricing annually, the average cost for an in-state public college in 2013-2104 is $22, 826, and $44,750 for a private college.

Understanding Exchange-Traded Funds

by Stacy Brasher on Mar 1, 2021

Thinking about where to invest your money can be overwhelming and confusing, especially for those who are unfamiliar with all options for investing. If you’d like to take advantage of the ease of stock trading with the diversification of mutual funds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) can potentially give you the best of both worlds. Here are some key things to know about ETFs before investing. 

ETF Basics

How to Finance Your Dream Car

by Stacy Brasher on Feb 25, 2021

Car ownership is necessary for many of us to get around, especially for those who live far from public transportation. While you may choose to drive something practical for your everyday commute, errands and travel, you probably have dreams of driving a car that’s fun, sporty and luxurious. Owning an expensive luxury or exotic vehicle may seem out of reach, but there are financial options available to make your dream a reality. Here are some ways you can finance and save for that luxury vehicle.  

Set Your Sights on a Car 

Explaining the Benefits of a 401(k) to Young Adults Entering the Workforce

by Stacy Brasher on Feb 22, 2021

If you have a child graduating from high school or college and entering the workforce, they may have the opportunity to open up a 401(k) through their new employer. In some cases, that employer will also offer matching contribution funds up to a certain percentage. While it sounds like a no-brainer to take advantage of these benefits early,many younger employees do not participate in their employer's 401(k) plan. 

Should You Retire at the Same Time As Your Spouse?

by Stacy Brasher on Feb 18, 2021

If you and your spouse are making plans to retire, you’re probably wondering whether it’s a good idea to retire at the same time. Many couples go through the same thought process and, in fact, one in four couples quit their jobs within a year of each other. But retirement is a decision that should be carefully thought out. Here are some things to consider when deciding whether to retire at the same time as your spouse.

Healthcare Costs

The Five Disability Insurance Mistakes People Make

by Stacy Brasher on Feb 15, 2021

The risk of a disabling illness or injury that prevents a worker from doing his or her job is more significant than most people realize.  According to information compiled by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), a male U.S. worker at age 35 faces a one-in-four chance of disability taking him off the job for 90 days or longer during his working career.

Planning for the Long, Long Term

by Stacy Brasher on Feb 8, 2021

Most people looking to implement a financial plan are making decisions with the long term in mind. While what long term means tends to vary depending on factors like age, individual and family goals it’s safe to say most planners and their clients would agree that long term is usually measured in years, not months.