Money and You

Do you Know Who's Managing the Family Money? You may be surprised.

Do you know who manages the family money? You might be surprised.

For many families, this is a question getting new answers today because of changing family dynamics and the growing number of aging parents or family members. Long gone are the days when it could be assumed that managing family finances defaulted to “the man of the house.” At the same time, the Sandwich Generation is coming to terms with their aging parents and family members who need caregivers to help with many aspects of their lives, including managing their finances.  Managing the family's investments is increasingly shifting to the one who is most likely to schedule the medical appointments, get the kids to school, and be the caregiver for aging parents: the working Mom.

The Dark Web (Lakeside Chats 5-5-21)

The Dark Web is an interesting place with a ton of potential, and a ton of risk. This month, we were joined by Twinstate Technologies as we go into the dark web, so you don’t have to.

Celebrating Financial Literacy Month (Lakeside Chats 4-7-21)

April 7, 2021 | Topics: Video, Financial Literacy, Recent Videos

April is Financial Literacy Month! To celebrate, Adam hosted a Financial Literacy Jeopardy-like Trivia game for this month's Lakeside Chat!

How to Know the Financial Metrics that Matter During a Crisis

In 2020, the pandemic presented many small business owners with a crash course on financial metrics and why they matter. You may be one. I imagine you’ve owned your business for a few years or more, endured some ups and downs but overall enjoyed steady growth, watched your cash flow and know your bottom line. Why was selecting, applying for, and tracking small business relief funds such a challenge? Let’s start by taking a close look at the factors creating the challenge and how to prepare your business with metrics that matter for the future.

How to Find the Best Financial Advisor for You Now

You have probably seen the articles. Some are long. Some are short. The common thread is that the writer claims there is one perfect and absolute set of questions to ask (and corresponding answers) whenever you interview a potential financial advisor. I don’t think so.

Four signs it’s time for a second opinion now

January 17, 2018 | Topics: Recent Articles, Articles, Financial Literacy

How to know you need to talk with a different financial advisor

You leave your financial advisor’s office with a nagging doubt. They’re the one with the credentials, of course. But something’s not right. Should you get a second financial opinion?

Yes, say those who have done so, and don’t think twice. A fresh perspective can make all the difference for your financial health and confidence. Here are a few good reasons to schedule an appointment with a different advisor.

Choosing a Financial Advisor

Research is the First Step in a Successful Long Term Relationship

Many people select a financial advisor based on a simple recommendation from a friend or family member who “appears” to be financially successful. When your financial future may depend on the strength of another’s guidance, isn’t it wise to base the decision on more than just one subjective recommendation? There are many readily available, objective, and thorough tools that can help you choose a trustworthy and competent professional capable of helping to manage your money wisely. But finding the right advisor that addresses your unique and individual situation requires hands-on research. Chemistry (feeling comfortable with your advisor) is critical in your selection process, too. You deserve a planner you feel is approachable and will be available to you to answer your questions and concerns promptly and respectfully.

It Doesn't Hurt to Get a Second Opinion

All too often we find the worlds of health care and finances colliding these days. And just as in medicine, it’s a very good idea to seek a second opinion when it comes to your financial well-being. The economy has been on a roller coaster ride in recent years, but that shouldn’t deter you from consistently working towards a financially secure future. Given recent events, you may be wondering what to do next. Stay the course and keep all investments where they are? Move everything now while things are calmer? Explore new options with fresh eyes? If you are evaluating your current financial health and the economy, and you want make some sense of what to do next (if anything) – start by getting a second opinion.

Why Your Credit Score Matters

The ABCs of FICO Credit Score

Have you ever wondered why financial professionals make a fuss about credit/FICO scores? You may not think your credit score is a big deal, especially if your income is healthy; however, your income has nothing to do with your credit score. You can make a king’s ransom and have a poor credit score – or have a small income and a very high credit score. So here are some basic facts about FICO and credit scores.

Estate Planning to Avoid Family Discord

Family relationships are so fundamental to our personal identity and so often they are complicated. During a time of grieving and mourning over the death of a loved one, family relations can become even more emotionally charged. Although none of us can avoid death, it is possible to minimize potential family conflicts through advanced, careful estate planning.