Blog
Welcome to the Canonico Wealth Management Blog
Good financial planning isn’t about chasing trends or quick fixes. It’s about doing the right things, the right way, over time—and having a plan that can carry you through every stage of life.
That belief has guided my work for more than 20+ years, and it’s the foundation of everything you’ll find here.
I’m Gwen Canonico, CFP®, and I work with women, educators, and public service families who have spent years building their lives and careers—yet are often left navigating retirement decisions, estate planning, special needs concerns, or major life transitions with little clarity and too much noise.
This blog exists to bring order to that chaos.
Here, I share practical, experience-driven insights on:
Retirement planning for teachers and public service employees
Estate planning and trust services, including trustee selection and long-term administration
Special needs planning, from ABLE accounts to special needs trusts
Women in transition, including divorce, widowhood, and career changes
These articles reflect the same long-term, relationship-based approach I bring to my planning work—focused on continuity, thoughtful decision-making, and building structures that last. As my practice continues to grow and evolve, this commitment remains unchanged: helping clients and their families plan with confidence today and stability for the future.
No sales pressure. No one-size-fits-all advice. Just clear guidance rooted in experience, stewardship, and planning done with intention.
If you’re looking for financial insight designed to stand the test of time, you’re in the right place.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities: What They Cost, How They Work, and When to Start Preparing
Why Is This Conversation So Important Right Now? The U.S. is in the middle of a sustained demographic shift. More than 61 million adults are aged 65 and older as of 2025, and that number is projected to reach approximately 82 million...
Read More
Will Your Pension Really Be Enough to Retire as a NJ Teacher?
You did everything right. You showed up.You put in the years.You stayed committed to a career that isn’t easy—and doesn’t always get the credit it deserves. And somewhere along the way, you were told:“Don’t worry. Your pension will...
Read More
ABLE Accounts for Housing Without Losing Benefits
ABLE Accounts for Housing Without Losing Benefits Why Housing Creates Benefit Problems — and Why ABLE Is DifferentHousing is often the single biggest barrier to independence for eligible individuals with disabilities who rely on...
Read More
5 Financial Mistakes Women Make After Divorce (And How to Avoid Them)
What are the biggest financial mistakes women make after divorce?Some of the most common financial mistakes women make after divorce include failing to update beneficiaries, assuming the legal paperwork is enough, delaying financial...
Read More
What Do SSI, SSDI, ABLE, and SNT Mean? 11 Common Special Needs Planning Acronyms
Navigating the world of disability benefits and supports can feel overwhelming, especially with all the acronyms involved. Understanding these acronyms can make planning for things like education, financial support, and care go more...
Read MoreShow All
When Should I Start Taking Social Security: 5 Factors to Consider
Social Security decisions are often framed as a single question: “When should I start drawing benefits?” That question matters, but it can also be limiting. The better question is: how does Social Security fit into my overall...
Read More
403(b) Options for NJ Teachers: What You Need to Know Before You Choose
If you’re a New Jersey teacher, you’ve probably been approached about a 403(b). And if you’re like most teachers, you were given just enough information to sign up—but not enough to make a confident decision.Let’s clear that up.What Is...
Read More
Who Are the Key Players in Special Needs Planning?
Special needs planning requires more than a trust—it takes coordination. Learn the key players and how Canonico Wealth Management helps families with Special Needs Trusts, financial planning, and trustee services.
Read More
Teaching Teens and Young Adults Financial Literacy Through Real-Life Decision Making
If you are a parent of a teen or young adult, how do you teach them to make confident money decisions before the stakes are high?Teaching teens and young adults about money is less about formal instruction and more about repeated...
Read More
What a New Report Reveals About Disability Benefits in 2025
For the roughly 16 million Americans who depend on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), a new report reveals a troubling reality: a system that was already difficult to navigate became, for...
Read More
A Professional Take on the Corebridge + Equitable Merger
I would be remiss if I didn’t comment on yesterday’s announcement involving two of the biggest names in the 403(b) marketplace: Corebridge Financial and Equitable Holdings. The companies announced a proposed $22 billion all-stock...
Read More
The First 90 Days After Divorce: What to Do Financially (Step-by-Step Guide)
What should you do financially right after a divorce?In the first 90 days after a divorce, you should focus on stabilizing your cash flow, updating legal and financial accounts, and creating a clear plan for income, expenses, and...
Read More
Helping Adult Children Buy a Home: How to Gift a Down Payment The Smart Way
Key TakeawaysHere are some questions this blog aims to answer:How can parents or grandparents help with a down payment for adult children?What are ways to gift a down payment, and how do the annual gift tax exclusion and lifetime...
Read More
How to Fund a Special Needs Trust with Life Insurance
Among the many challenges for families is making sure there will always be enough money to provide lifetime care for their special needs children. The costs are daunting: therapies, housing, medical care, and education, to name just a...
Read More
Lifetime Money Management for Children With Disabilities
Special Needs Trust Planning | SSI & Medicaid Protection | Canonico Wealth ManagementPlanning for a child with disabilities isn’t just estate planning — it’s lifetime money management. It’s about protecting eligibility for Supplemental...
Read More
Confessions of a Former 403(b) Rep in New Jersey Schools
I spent 14 years in the 403(b) business in NJ schools. Let me just say this: it was not for the faint of heart. Here’s what shocked me the most.
Read More
Three Numbers Every Woman Should Know
Key TakeawaysHow much wealth are women on track to control in the next decade, and why does that matter?What does the life expectancy gap between women and men mean for how long money needs to last?How common is it for women to be...
Read More
The Missing NJ Teacher Pension COLA: How Inflation Quietly Shrinks Your Pension
For decades, New Jersey teachers paid into the system with the understanding that their pension would provide stability in retirement. The promise wasn’t flashy. It was simple: a defined benefit, predictable income, and cost-of-living...
Read More
Tax Prep vs. Tax Strategy: The Difference Matters More Than You Think
Key TakeawaysTreat tax strategy as a continuous process, not a once-a-year filing exercise.Coordinate with financial and tax professionals throughout the year to identify opportunities for efficiency.Review contribution limits,...
Read More
Medicare and Social Security Disability Benefits
Confused about Medicare and Social Security disability benefits? Learn how SSDI and Medicare work together—and when to seek specialized legal and financial guidance.
Read More
Starting a New Year After a Life Change
How to Rebuild Financial Confidence After a Divorce: The calendar flips to January and everyone’s talking about fresh starts, new habits, and bold goals. But if you’re coming out of a divorce, the new year can feel less like a clean...
Read More
Understanding the Emotions Behind Financial Decisions
Key TakeawaysEmotions and biases might influence financial choices more often than most people realize.Behavioral patterns, such as loss aversion, familiarity bias, and herd mentality, can impact long-term results.Recognizing emotional...
Read More
Two Common Special Needs Trust Mistakes Families Make
When managed correctly, a special needs trust (SNT) can help a person with a disability handle certain expenses while keeping their Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.Managing an SNT takes knowledge and care. A...
Read More
A Big Win for Teachers: NJ Restores Original Pension Tiers After a Break in Service
A Big Win for Teachers: NJ Restores Original Pension Tiers After a Break in ServiceOn October 1, 2025, New Jersey passed one of the most meaningful pension fixes for educators in years.Governor Phil Murphy signed A-1675 / S-2078 into...
Read More
The Perils and Pitfalls of Do-It-Yourself Special Needs Planning
Among the costs of caring for a dependent with special needs are the fees for professional advice. Some families are tempted to save on these costs by setting up a plan on their own. This can be attractive because so much information...
Read More
AI and the New Face of Fraud: How to Protect Your Identity and Finances in 2026
Artificial intelligence (AI) may be the most revolutionary technology of our time, with industries scrambling to embrace its possibilities. AI’s early influence seems similar to the positive disruptions brought about by past...
Read More
Living Trust vs. Irrevocable Trust: What's the Difference?
You may be thinking about setting up a trust to protect your assets, save on estate taxes, or perhaps set aside money for a family member with special needs.Before you commit to a plan, make sure you understand the differences between...
Read More
2025 in Review and What You Should Know
As we begin a new year and consider the opportunities ahead, reflecting on the past year helps put today’s financial landscape into perspective and informs the strategies that can move us closer to our goals.2025 was a year marked by...
Read More
New Year, New Priorities: A Fresh Start for Your Finances
There’s something about the New Year that makes everyone swear they’re about to turn into a completely different person. New planner. New workout routine. New promises to cook at home. And of course, new money goals that sound great on...
Read More
The Teacher Reset: What a Week Off Can (and Can’t) Fix
Let’s be honest: when teachers finally get a break — whether it’s Thanksgiving week, winter recess, or spring break — you don’t just exhale. You practically collapse. And who could blame you? You spend months running full speed with...
Read MoreGoal Setting That Sticks: Simple Ways to Turn January Motivation into Lasting Wins
Key Takeaways and Suggestions for Successful Goal Setting Use SMART Goals for Clarity and FocusSet goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This proven method helps break big ambitions into manageable...
Read More
🎄 The Great Holiday Guilt Trap (and How to Escape It)
It’s the season of giving, and for many women, that means giving until it hurts. Whether it’s splurging on the “perfect” gift, overcommitting your time, or feeling pressured to make the holidays magical for everyone else, it’s easy to...
Read More
The Risks of Crowdfunding for People With Special Needs
Crowdfunding is a way to raise money from a large number of people, typically online. Instead of asking one or two wealthy investors, you ask many people to each contribute a small amount. Often used for specific projects, causes, or...
Read More
Year-End Giving Strategies: Tax-Smart and Impactful
Key Takeaways A third of annual donations: About one-third of all charitable contributions are made in December. Donating before December 31 may offer tax advantages. New rules starting in 2026 (via the OBBB Act) may affect deductions...
Read More
What Is a Pooled Trust, and How Can It Protect Your Benefits?
When you rely on programs like Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Medicaid, every dollar matters, sometimes too much. Receiving an inheritance, a personal injury settlement, or even accumulating extra money in your bank account can...
Read More
🎄 The Holiday Budget Hangover: How to Avoid Starting the New Year in Debt 🥴
We all know the feeling — the credit card bill arrives in January, and suddenly that “just one more gift” moment feels like a financial hangover that even coffee can’t fix. Between gift exchanges, dinners, and last-minute Amazon sprees...
Read More
What Administrators Get Wrong About 403(b) Vendors
If you’re a school administrator, your plate is full of budgets, staffing, parents, policies, and somewhere down the list, there’s that mysterious 403(b) plan your teachers keep asking about. It’s easy to assume that having “a list of...
Read More
The True Costs of Caring for Aging Parents
Key Takeaways Caring for aging parents is a growing reality for many Americans. The number of family caregivers in the U.S. has jumped to 63 million, a 45 percent increase over the past decade, making 1 in every 4 Americans a caregiver...
Read More
Special Needs Trusts as a Safeguard for Medicaid Eligibility
For many individuals with disabilities, programs like Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are more than just financial support—they’re a lifeline. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, more than one in three people...
Read MoreMoney Talks: How to Use Holiday Gatherings to Start Family Financial Conversations
Key Takeaways Year-end holidays may be a good time to initiate a discussion about financial matters that may impact your family. If you have adult children, you may want to discuss your financial situation, estate strategy, and legal...
Read More
The Ghosts of Budgets Past 🎃
Haunted by Old Money Habits? Here’s How to Banish Them for Good Every October, we pull out the pumpkins, light the candles, and settle in for spooky stories. But the scariest ghosts aren’t in haunted houses—they’re in our budgets....
Read More
The Haunted Retirement Plan: Don’t Let Your Future Turn Into a Horror Story 🎃
Picture this: It’s a dark and stormy night. You’re sorting through old paperwork, and suddenly you stumble upon… your retirement account statement. The numbers make your heart race faster than a jump scare in a horror movie. You...
Read More
The Downside to ABLE Accounts: What Families Should Know
When Congress passed the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act in 2014, it opened an incredible door for individuals with disabilities and their families. Finally, there was a tax-advantaged way to save for disability-related...
Read More
403(b) vs. 457(b): Which One Works Better for You?
If you’re a New Jersey teacher, you’ve probably heard about your 403(b) plan, sometimes from that overly friendly vendor who “just happens to” set up shop in the teacher’s lounge. But have you heard of the 457(b) plan? Both plans can...
Read More
Divorce and the Teacher’s Pension: What You Need to Know
Divorce is rarely simple. Between dividing assets, untangling finances, and rebuilding your next chapter, the process can feel overwhelming. But for New Jersey teachers, there’s one asset that often adds a surprising layer of...
Read More
Should You Pay Off Your Mortgage Early?
Receiving a bonus, inheritance, or an increase in income often prompts a key financial question: Should I use this money to pay off my mortgage, or invest it? At first glance, the answer might seem simple. But in reality, it requires...
Read More
Beyond Survival: How to Thrive Financially After Life’s Biggest Transitions
Life has a way of throwing curveballs. Divorce. The loss of a spouse. A major career shift. Caring for a child with special needs. Retirement sneaking up faster than expected. These are the moments that not only tug at our hearts but...
Read More
Protecting Your Benefits: Why Professional Guidance Matters After a Personal Injury Settlement
A personal injury settlement can provide much-needed financial relief — but it can also have unintended consequences for individuals with disabilities. Depending on where you live and which benefits you receive, a settlement could...
Read More
Building an Estate Plan for Adult Children with Disabilities
As a parent of an adult child with disabilities, you already know one truth: their needs aren’t static. They change over time—sometimes slowly, sometimes overnight. That’s why building a future plan for your child isn’t just about...
Read More
A 2025 Guide to Protecting Seniors from Fraud
If you’ve found yourself stepping into a more active role in your parents’ financial lives, you’re not alone. Some of us are helping aging parents navigate everything from healthcare decisions to bill payments—and increasingly, we’re...
Read More
Dividing Assets vs. Dividing Futures: What Women Need to Know About Retirement Accounts in Divorce
When it comes to divorce, most people immediately think about dividing the house, the bank accounts, and maybe even who gets the dog. But for many women, the biggest long-term financial impact doesn’t come from those visible assets—it...
Read More
Public Service, Private Savings: Why Pensions Aren’t Enough
Public servants work hard for their pensions, but are they enough? Learn why NJ teachers, police officers, and other public service employees need private savings strategies like 403(b), 457(b), and IRAs to protect their retirement.
Read More
Funding a Special Needs Trust With a Structured Settlement
If a loved one with special needs receives a personal injury settlement, taking the money outright could jeopardize their eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. That’s where funding a Special Needs Trust (SNT) with a structured settlement ...
Read More
The Problem with Picking the Wrong Trustee
Choosing a trustee for a special needs trust is one of the most important decisions a family can make. It’s not just about naming someone you love. It’s about ensuring the person you choose has the skills, time, and integrity to...
Read More
Smart Moves to Consider Before Year-End
The final months of the year can sneak up quickly, and with them come deadlines, decisions, and distractions. Before the holiday season takes over your calendar, fall can be a valuable window to revisit your financial strategy and...
Read More
From Club Sports to Corporate Cubicles: Parents Just Can’t Stop Playing the Game
Helicopter parenting doesn’t stop when kids grow up. A recent New York Post article reported that 77% of Gen Z job seekers brought a parent to a job interview — a perfect example of how overparenting
Read More
When Loss Changes Everything: Financial First Steps for Widows
Losing a spouse is overwhelming. Here are the first financial steps widows should take to stay secure and supported.
Read More
2026 Is a Game-Changer: Expanded ABLE Account Eligibility
If you’ve ever looked into an ABLE account but thought, “We don’t qualify,” you may want to take another look. Starting January 1, 2026, millions of Americans who were previously excluded will finally be eligible. This is one of the...
Read More
The Trap of the 403(b): What NJ Teachers Aren’t Being Told
When it comes to NJ teacher retirement planning, most educators assume their pension will be enough. After all, you’ve worked hard, put in the years, and the system is supposed to take care of you. But the truth is, between rising...
Read More
The Financial Pink Tax: Why Women Pay More for the Same Retirement
We already know the “pink tax” from razors, deodorant, and dry-cleaning bills. But here’s the real gut-punch: it follows us into retirement planning too. The pink tax isn’t just pennies on shampoo. In retirement, it can add up to...
Read More
Why More Families Are Choosing to Gift Wealth Earlier—and How to Do It
Estate management isn’t just about what happens after you’re gone— it’s also about what you can do now to help manage future estate taxes, transfer wealth strategically, and attempt to create a meaningful impact during your lifetime....
Read More
Should a special needs trust (SNT) trustee be paid, and, if so, how much?
The answer is, it depends. The demands on a trustee can vary widely, depending on the size and complexity of the trust. Some family members serving in this role might simply oversee distributions and not need to charge anything at all...
Read More
Late Summer Burnout Is Real—Especially for Women
Every year, I start summer with high hopes: lazy pool days, beach trips, iced coffees, and maybe even a vacation or two. But what I actually get? Total exhaustion. Instead of relaxing, I find myself driving in endless circles between...
Read More
Back to School, Back to Saving: Why NJ Teachers Should Revisit Their 403(b) This Fall
As New Jersey teachers head back into the classroom this fall, most are focused on setting up bulletin boards, organizing class lists, and preparing for the rush of a new year. But there’s something else that deserves your attention,...
Read More
What You Need to Know About the 2025 Changes to Inherited IRA Rules
The rules regarding inherited IRAs have changed in the last five years, and failing to comply with the new requirements may result in IRS penalties. These changes affect people inheriting IRAs and those looking to leave retirement...
Read More
Choosing Trustees for Special Needs Trusts: 5 Considerations
Choosing the right person to serve as trustee of a special needs trust (SNT) is a key task when creating such a trust. It may also prove to be one of the most challenging. Trustees are responsible for the following: managing the...
Read More
Are Club Sports Ruining Your Financial Plan?
There’s an unspoken debt floating around in suburban households, and it has nothing to do with credit cards or student loans. It’s club sports. If you have a child over the age of 8, you probably know exactly what I mean. The cost, the...
Read More
Write a Letter of Intent for Your Special Needs Child
If we have learned anything these past few years, it’s that life is fleeting. For families with children with disabilities, worrying about their loved one’s life in the years ahead is ever-present. Special needs planning allows you to...
Read More
Social Security and Divorce: 5 Things Every Woman Needs to Know
Divorce can flip your financial world upside down—and Social Security is often one of the last things on your mind. But here’s the truth: understanding how Social Security works after a divorce can make a major difference in your...
Read More
Special Needs Planning for Blended Families
The modern family is no longer defined by the nuclear model. Today, blended families — where one or both partners bring children from previous relationships — are increasingly common. So-called “nontraditional” families, including...
Read More
Big Change: No More Pennies
No more passing them by when you see one on the sidewalk. Forget about wasting a couple by putting them in your loafers. And don’t even consider throwing them into a wishing well. The Treasury Department has announced that it is...
Read More
“I’m Bad With Money”: Busting the Myth That Keeps Women Stuck
If I had a dollar for every time a woman said, “I’m just bad with money,” I could fully fund a Roth IRA by now. This phrase, usually said with a half-laugh, a shrug, or a little embarrassment, comes up in conversation way more than...
Read More
Do Personal Injury Settlements Affect SSI or SSDI Benefits?
The answer to how personal injury settlements affect Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits depends on your specific situation. However, there is a general answer: SSDI – No, your...
Read More
Why Your Friends’ Divorce Advice May Be Costing You
The well-meaning myths that can derail your financial future Divorce is emotional. Overwhelming. Sometimes paralyzing. And when you're in the thick of it, it's natural to lean on your friends for support. They've “been there,” they...
Read More
How Much Do You Really Know About Stock Market Indexes?
While you may follow the various stock indexes on the nightly business news, how much do you know about their histories, how they work, and why they're important? We pulled together some information and interesting facts about some of...
Read More
🐾 Roxy’s Ruff Guide to Financial Planning
🐾 Roxy’s Ruff Guide to Financial PlanningA tail-wagging take on your financial future Hey there, humans! I’m Roxy, the resident Goldendoodle and Chief Happiness Officer at Canonico Wealth Management. When I’m not busy greeting clients...
Read More
Financial Planning for Teachers in New Jersey: A Smarter Way to Save for Retirement
Financial Planning for Teachers in New Jersey: A Smarter Way to Save for Retirement I spent years working with New Jersey teachers, helping them set up 403(b) retirement accounts. Most started small—$50 or $100 per paycheck. The idea...
Read More
Child Support and Special Needs: 6 Important Questions
Parents of a child with special needs know that they must plan for the child’s care and support far into the future. This is especially so if the child is unlikely ever to be able to earn an income on their own once they are an adult....
Read More
How Do You Turn Retirement Savings into a Reliable Income Strategy?
You’ve likely spent years building your retirement nest egg—saving diligently, investing wisely, and contributing to retirement accounts along the way. But transitioning from earning a paycheck to relying on your savings can feel...
Read More
Breaking Barriers: Supporting Women on the Path toward Financial Security
We’ve all heard about the roadblocks women face with money—lower wages, career breaks, fewer leadership roles. But there’s another obstacle that doesn’t get enough attention: the psychological one. Sometimes, the biggest barrier isn’t...
Read More
The Benefits of Establishing a Special Needs Trust Early
Special Needs Trusts (SNTs) protect assets for individuals with disabilities while preserving eligibility for public benefits like SSI and Medicaid. Establishing an SNT early allows for long-term financial planning, protects future benefits
Read More10 Things You Can Do Now to Help Simplify Your Estate for Your Heirs
One of the greatest gifts you can give your loved ones is a thoughtful estate strategy that outlines your wishes after you are gone. Discussing estate details with your team of professionals is another way to help manage your legacy...
Read More“The Four Most Dangerous Words In Investing Are: ‘This Time It’s Different.’” – Sir John Templeton
Despite those who say the conventional wisdom that has guided investor actions over the years is no longer valid in 2025, remember the famous quote from legendary investor Sir John Templeton: "The four most dangerous words in...
Read More
Estate Planning for Parents of Children With Mental Illness
I’ve spent years sharing estate planning strategies with the special needs community, but one of the most challenging and eye-opening workshops I led was for a NAMI support group (National Alliance on Mental Illness). When it comes to...
Read More
The Emotional Cost of Financial Caregiving: Why Women Need a Plan Before Crisis Hits
Let’s have a real conversation. Women are often the first to step in when a family member needs help. We don’t hesitate. Whether it’s aging parents, a sick spouse, a child with special needs, or even a sibling in crisis—we handle it....
Read More
10 Tips to Consider for Special Needs Planning
Careful planning for the future of a loved one with special needs is one of the most critical life-protecting tasks you will ever provide for them. To approach the planning process in a meaningful and comprehensive way, consider the...
Read MoreWhat’s the Job Market Look Like for 2025 Graduates?
It’s graduation season—a time of celebration and new beginnings. For families with college seniors, this time can bring both excitement and uncertainty. While some graduates have jobs lined up, many others still are navigating job...
Read More
Divorce Settlements Don’t Always Go As Planned: What Women Need to Watch For
After more than 20 years advising women through divorce and beyond, I’ve seen what can go wrong—and believe me, things do go wrong. Divorce settlements often look fair on paper, but without follow-through, details fall through the...
Read More
Is an Inherited IRA for a Special Needs Trust a Good Idea?
The SECURE Act passed at the end of 2019, changed a number of rules regarding inherited IRAs, making it more difficult for most beneficiaries to save on taxes by "stretching" distributions over many years. However, an exception to the...
Read More
Now open: our new online home!
Now open: our new online home! We’re excited to share some big news: our brand-new website is live, and it’s been built with you—our incredible community of women, caregivers, teachers, nurses, and families navigating major life...
Read More
Is It Smarter to Buy or Rent a Second Home?
As summer approaches, your thoughts may drift toward escaping your daily routine. Whether your idea of a perfect vacation is sitting on a pristine beach, fishing in a mountain lake, or playing the back nine between pickleball matches,...
Read More
Why Female Teachers in New Jersey Need a Financial Plan That Works as Hard as They Do
Let’s be honest—teaching isn’t just a job, it’s a calling. You’ve spent years giving your time, your patience, and your heart to help students grow. But too often, women in education put themselves last, especially when it comes to...
Read More
Should I Convert My IRA to a Roth for My Disabled Child?
When planning for a disabled child’s inheritance, parents and guardians face complex financial decisions. One is particularly impactful: whether to convert a traditional individual retirement account (IRA) to a Roth IRA. Understanding...
Read More
Being There When It Matters Most
When I was a new advisor years ago, I hosted a seminar at my local library. I remember one woman in the audience who shared a story that stuck with me ever since. Her husband had always told her, “If anything ever happens to me, call...
Read More
A Comparison of Special Needs Trusts and ABLE Accounts
A special needs trust (SNT) and an Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) account each provide a tax-free way for people with disabilities to save money. Both options provide a mechanism for saving money and protecting resources...
Read More
From College Acceptances to Affordability: Considerations for Families in the Final Stretch
April is a pivotal time in the college admissions process. After years of preparation, saving, and investing—not to mention the countless hours spent on exam prep, campus visits, and perfecting applications and essays—the finish line...
Read More
When should you involve a financial professional in a divorce?
Divorce isn’t just an emotional upheaval—it’s a financial puzzle with high stakes. Yet, too often, financial experts are called in after major decisions have already been made, sometimes when it's too late to change course. For...
Read More
Spring Into Financial Wellness: Actionable Steps for Financial Literacy Month
April isn’t just about filing taxes—it’s also Financial Literacy Month, a perfect opportunity to reflect on your financial habits, expand your knowledge, and take meaningful steps toward improving your financial well-being. Whether...
Read More
5 Common Divorce Mistakes Women Should Avoid
Divorce is one of the most stressful life events. Even the most amicable splits can be complicated and emotionally draining. It is also a time when financial decisions impact spouses and children for years to come. With everything a...
Read MoreThe Evolving Role of Women in Family Finances
March is Women’s History Month, and according to a recent survey, 49% of women consider themselves to be the chief financial officer of their households, up from 41% in 2021.1 Those numbers are even more impressive when you consider...
Read More
College Corner | The Cost of College While Saving for Retirement
Retirement & College Creating a retirement strategy is an important financial goal for many investors. But what if you also wanted to help a child or grandchild with higher education costs? Can you have two priorities with your...
Read MoreDon’t Leave Money Behind: Finding Your Missing 401(k)s
You've worked hard throughout your life to build assets to support your retirement. As financial professionals, one of the most critical functions we provide is helping clients determine their retirement income needs and structuring a...
Read More
Don’t Let Anyone Tell You That You Don’t Need Life Insurance
Let’s talk about life insurance! When you’re considering buying it, everyone seems to have an opinion. But I’ve never been to a funeral where someone regretted having life insurance or thought it was a waste of money. In fact, when...
Read MoreTax Season Brings a New Wave of Identity Theft Risks
Tax season brings a new wave of identity theft risks, with criminals ready to exploit your personal data to file fraudulent tax returns in your name. Imagine the shock of discovering that a criminal beat you to filing your...
Read More
Empowering Women
Ladies, understanding your finances is one of the most empowering steps you can take toward securing your future. Financial independence gives you the freedom to make your own choices, pursue your dreams, and confidently face life’s...
Read More10 Facts You May Not Know About Social Security
Social Security is often misunderstood or underestimated in retirement strategy. However, as financial professionals, we've seen how it can play a crucial role in our clients' overall financial strategy, regardless of their income...
Read More
ABLE Accounts
Incorporating an ABLE account into life care planning for a child with special needs can be a powerful tool to help families ensure financial stability while preserving access to essential government benefits. ABLE accounts offer a...
Read MoreInnovative New Year's Resolutions: Financial and Personal Growth Strategies for 2025
Looks like New Year's resolutions are still going strong in 2024! A recent Pew survey found that about a third of Americans kicked off the year with at least one resolution, and many people actually went for multiple goals. It's...
Read MoreKey Financial Insights from 2024 and Looking Ahead to 2025
As we approach the end of 2024, it's an opportune time to reflect on the year's financial developments and consider what 2025 may bring. We believe in understanding both the past and potential future of our economic landscape, which...
Read MoreNavigating Healthcare Costs in Retirement: Life After Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance
As you approach retirement, a critical aspect of your retirement strategy can catch even the most financially savvy individuals off guard: healthcare costs. For decades, you may have enjoyed employer-sponsored health insurance. As...
Read More
Understanding Special Needs
Understanding Special Needs Trusts: Securing a Bright Future When planning for the future of a loved one with special needs, financial security is a crucial concern. A Special Needs Trust (SNT) is a powerful tool designed to ensure...
Read MoreA Different Kind of Year-End Review: 10 Steps to Reflect and Recharge
Financial professionals typically have a year-round focus on monetary goals and wealth management strategies. However, we also believe that true financial well-being is intrinsically linked to your overall life satisfaction and...
Read More
Never Kissed A Frog
Most empowering steps a women can take toward securing their future.
Read MoreYear-End Giving Strategies: Maximizing Your Impact
America is a generous country. People with diverse backgrounds can unite for a good cause, whether to benefit their local communities or the broader world. As we enter the holiday season, now is a great time to think about your giving...
Read More