Blog Posts

Streamlining the Car Buying Experience: A Personal Journey with Your Car Dog

Streamlining the Car Buying Experience: A Personal Journey with Your Car Dog

By Marc C. Shaffer

I recently embarked on a journey to purchase a new vehicle, and the new method I tried was a game-changer. Instead of going the traditional dealership route, I utilized a refreshing new approach with Your Car Dog, a car buying agent recommended by a referral partner. The experience was nothing short of wonderful, and I’m eager to share my story.

Flowchart – What Will Have the Least Tax Impact: Harvesting Capital Gains or Roth Conversions?

Flowchart – What Will Have the Least Tax Impact: Harvesting Capital Gains or Roth Conversions?

Many people often have outsized positions due to appreciation and large pre-tax retirement accounts. You may be looking to reduce portfolio risk and protect gains now, while also aiming to reduce your future income tax burden. Roth conversions and harvesting capital gains are two effective financial strategies that can achieve these goals; however, they accelerate income tax costs. There are current tax consequences associated with each strategy, and the issue becomes whether to accelerate ordinary income, capital gains, or a combination thereof.

Is Your HSA a Tool in Your Investment Arsenal? How an HSA Can Help You Invest for the Future

Is Your HSA a Tool in Your Investment Arsenal? How an HSA Can Help You Invest for the Future

By Marc C. Shaffer

A triple tax-advantaged account that many overlook, a Health Savings Account (HSA) is an account for individuals with high deductibles to set aside money on a pre-tax basis to cover qualified medical expenses. If you are able to cover most medical expenses out of pocket, a high deductible health insurance plan may work for you while allowing you to invest through your HSA for tax-free growth.*

Checklist: What Issues Should I Consider When Owning a Rental Property?

Checklist: What Issues Should I Consider When Owning a Rental Property?

Many people like rental income because it seems passive and simple, until it isn’t so passive … or simple! Using this checklist, you may better understand the challenges and nuances that exist with owning a rental property. Whether it’s landlord responsibilities and managing risk, or investment and tax/estate concerns, there’s a lot to consider. This checklist covers some key issues you must consider when owning a rental property, such as:

Data Breach: Your Security To-Do List

Data Breach: Your Security To-Do List

According to recent statistics, data breaches have become common in today’s digital world. In fact, it is estimated that more than 111.7 million Americans have their personal information exposed to data breaches every year. Whether it’s a major retailer, a subscription service, or another online platform, the risk of a data breach is a reality that we all face.

Navigating Financial Changes in Anticipation  of Your Upcoming Retirement

Navigating Financial Changes in Anticipation of Your Upcoming Retirement

By Marc C. Shaffer

For many, a new year means a fresh financial start. For those nearing retirement, it means another day closer to a momentous transition. Whether you have your retirement date circled on the 2024 calendar or coming up in the next few years, the new year can be a great time to get your financial ducks in a row and make sure you’re checking the right boxes before the big change.