New Retirement Radio with Dennis Prout Podcast: Recent Episodes
Dennis Prout and Shea Petaja
The days of simple retirement planning are gone and those who can manage their own portfolio are choosing not to. Prout Financial Design began over 25 years ago as an education based financial planning practice. Dennis Prout, Certified Financial Planner, believes that each client should not only understand their finances, they should be actively involved in the decisions made. Join the conversation! Dennis' radio show can be heard LIVE every Thursday at 10 am on News Talk 580 am or you can listen here instead. Thanks for tuning in! Advisory Services offered through Capital Asset Advisory Services, a Limited Liability Company, and a Registered Investment Advisor. Prout Financial Design does not provide tax, accounting, or legal services. Please consult the appropriate professional regarding your individual circumstance. Not associated with or endorsed by the Social Security Administration or any other government agency.
Significant fluctuations in the stock market, along with increasing discussions about a potential recession, can certainly unnerve most investors. Some, however, view this as an opportunity, while others resort to panicked decisions that create even more unnecessary pain. Clearly, it is important for all of us retirement account savers to identify potential opportunities and avoid mistakes. On today’s show, we’ll review Ed Slott’s May newsletter, which touches upon this very issue, and talk about handling fluctuations as well as opportunities you might want to take advantage of given today’s realities. There’s lots to talk about this week, so we hope you can join us! If not, the podcast is available through our website, proutfinancialdesign.com, under the heading “Radio Shows.”
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Today’s show will feature special guest Bob Simpson, the star of the local Social Security scene who kept his shirt on and was still famous. The fact that we were able to lure him out of his recent retirement to come on and speak to us about Social Security is a gift in and of itself, which we think you’ll love! We’ll review all the goings on with Social Security. Then, we’ll catch you up on the realities of Social Security, how to navigate the questions of collecting, and how to get your benefits when the time comes for you to retire! What more could you ask for? And we’d love to hear from you. Bob had decades to learn his craft and is excited to share all the latest.
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Trying to ascertain the direction of the current economy and the stock market is not an easily ascertainable thing. And, yes, I’ve purposely used “ascertain” twice in the previous sentence to help make the point that even the experts are puzzled by the conflagration of stats that are coming out. Sometimes, history can help us. Other times, numbers are pointing to the fact that the S&P 500 is now down 10% this year and is a relatively significant amount historically. While its average decline is 13.8%, the number of times the market has declined 10% or more since 1928 has only occurred 33 times. On today’s show, there’s lots to talk about with the stats, and Heidi will be discussing the article on Social Security by Heather Schreiber titled “5 Golden Nuggets: Warnings and Winning Moves.” Speaking of uncertainty, Social Security is in the spotlight, and we think it is a good time to discuss it in more detail. We’ll highlight information and answer your questions as they arise.
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There are so many confusing areas related to estate planning … like the importance of creating a power of attorney before a will. Plus, there’s the fact that NO ONE WANTS TO TALK ABOUT IT! On today’s show, we have Cortney Danbrook, a local estate planning attorney, to talk about the real issues related to aging, including the critical, ground-related issues of planning your estate and its interrelation to your health, children, spouse or significant other, and charities. It’s an ambitious list, but we’ll do our best to fit it all in. Our goal is to inform and apprise so you can forge ahead and make progress in your own personal situation to improve your lot for you and your family.
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Just when you thought it was safe to go outside (it is spring after all), the neighbor’s dog barks extra loudly and startles you … right? Similarly, most of the time, the stock market seems to make us climb a wall of worry. Even though the market appears to have mostly recovered from its recent correction, indeed many analysts proclaim we may still have to pay for fiddling with Chinese tariffs. Today, just because you would like a port in the storm, a strong voice of reason, or an intelligent argument as to why the proverbial dog barking is not a problem for you … here we are! On today’s show, we’ll talk about tariffs, the markets and the analyses we’re reading to help you ascertain where the opportunities might be and where and how you might participate. If you have questions, text or call us on the radio, we’d love to hear from you!
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As the “celebration” of April 15th nears, the importance of tax planning remains critical.
What celebration, you ask? The celebration that they’re done, of course. On today’s show, we’ll discuss the seven components of winning at taxes, especially after you’ve retired. The bottom line is that the savings you can take advantage of can be significant and leave you with a lot more after-tax dollars to use more efficiently in retirement. Next, Heidi will review an article from Kiplinger called “16 Retirement Mistakes You Will Regret Forever.” We agree with many of these mistakes, but not all of them. We’ll discuss why and how these can make a real difference in your world.
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Wow, what a week it’s been! The Dow Jones and S&P 500 are down about 10 percent, which is causing significant fear among investors. Some are even questioning the current administration’s policy on tariffs and their effect on the stock market. On today’s show, we’ll discuss what tariffs do, their purpose, and their advantages as well as drawbacks. We’ll also discuss how previous stock markets have responded historically in order to find the valuation gauges that might be helpful, and even profitable. While the fear index has certainly been jumping, we’ll learn what we can and gain some perspective to educate and expand our ability to navigate this new world.
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On today’s show, we’ll cover two very important – yet very different – topics. First, there are five retirement account moves you can still make for 2024. Yes, it’s amazing what you might still decide to do given the law and your own financial situation, especially if you’d like to save on taxes as well as some extra dollars. You might be a bit surprised, so be sure to listen in to see if there’s something here for you! Second, we’ll review an article from Capital Group called “Will economic uncertainty knock the Fed off course?” Some might say that the Fed already seems to be playing second fiddle with policy, and today we’ll hear why that might be the case. It would appear the Fed is taking a “wait-and-see” approach to allow the smoke of uncertainty to clear and thus allow them to make a solid decision. We’ll discuss this with lots of background information and stats to help bolster your situation.
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Well, we’ve known for almost four months Trump was going to be the next U.S. president. What we couldn’t have guessed, however, was the effect on spending his new administration was going to have. From higher tariff potential to massive cost-cutting, the changes have been so fast and furious that politicians, especially Democrats, are said to not be sure how or where to respond. On today’s show, we’ll look at possible scenarios stemming from these changes and discuss their short- and long-term effects. The ultimate winners? Likely, companies that can successfully navigate policy and technology shifts. For yourself, while these uncertainties can be unnerving, getting through these changes within this economy can present its own opportunity. That’s what we’ll highlight for you this week!
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Castagni, Simbulami, Arancini. These foreign words are here to prove a point … for most people, they may not make any sense. And sometimes what we discuss on our show may not make sense to some listeners. But just because it doesn’t make sense, we should try not to discount what it might mean. On today’s show, we’ll discuss five common rollover mistakes that can be very costly, and the importance of seeking good counsel when making big decisions. You wouldn’t believe what 401(k) providers have told us over the years regarding participants making incorrect, costly decisions when rolling over their retirement account to an IRA. Then, Heidi will discuss Ed Slott’s interview on Morningstar titled, “How You Can Turn Tax-Time Pain Into a Win,” where he explains and gives examples of how pre-planning for taxes can make a significant difference during the tax season. It should be very helpful information as we approach April 15.
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On today’s show, we will be joined by Connie Hintsala, Founder and President of Alliance for Senior Housing, LLC. Connie has provided families in the greater Grand Traverse area with senior housing solutions for more than 20 years, and the love and passion for her work has only grown. Her intricate knowledge of State of Michigan standards/requirements, as well as her own experience as a direct caregiver to her own parents, have enabled her and her team to provide guidance and assurance for families to make informed eldercare decisions. Services provided by Alliance for Senior Housing include confidential consultation with a senior housing expert to discuss specific desires and needs as well as manage fears and funding options. Get your questions ready, as we will discuss issues like guilt, financing and the importance of having a plan in place. We’d love to hear from you.
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The New Year begins, and already there’s so much to consider on the financial front!
On this week’s show we’ll discuss whether or not you could be “too rich” for a Roth IRA. Congress has set income limits on Roth contributions, and for those married filing jointly, no contributions are allowed for those with taxable incomes over $246,000 (for single filers, the amount is $165,000). While the income limits can be a source of frustration, there are many ways to circumvent these restrictions for those looking to invest in these accounts … and the ways to do so keep growing! Next, Heidi will discuss catch-up contributions for retirement accounts. While Congress has complicated these, the opportunities have been expanded to save for your retirement more aggressively. While we don’t often promote being aggressive, it could make sense in this case! We’ll have several examples for you of where this could make sense and how you might take advantage. And last, Beth Shier joins us with this week’s stats as well as some surprising information to help you keep your perspective.
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We are so looking forward to joining you via the airwaves in 2025!
2024 has been a year of challenges, surprises, market volatility, political unrest … and yet WE MADE IT. As we set foot into the future and ponder what this year could hold for the economy, Dennis and Nathan will discuss Capital Group’s “2025 Outlook: Long-Term Perspective on Markets and Economies,” which describes the current U.S. economy as the “Benjamin Button Economy.” What on earth does that mean? Capital Group economists are comparing the 2008 film The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, in which the main character’s age reverses, to the total returns of U.S. stocks by stage of business cycle. Is it possible that the U.S. business cycle appears to be aging in reverse? If so, what does that mean for us?
On January 5, President Biden signed the Social Security Fairness Act into law. This is thought to be one of the biggest changes to Social Security in decades. Dennis will break down the Social Security Fairness Act and discuss the changes it will bring and who might benefit. As you can see, there’s lots to discuss, and we look forward to your calls and texts.
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On today’s show, we’ll discuss Ed Slott’s thoughts on significant IRA rulings for 2024, as well as the “Five Keys to Investing in 2025,” by Capital Group.
As you can guess, there are many discussions among market analysts regarding the opportunities and the risks we can expect in 2025. We (Dennis Prout, Heidi Cartwright and Beth Shier) intend to do some of the same, but with a twist. The difference, we think, is that when making investment decisions, you need to think like an “owner,” i.e., you need to think longer term. The excuses we might try to make only tend to cause things to turn worse. We think we can discuss these mistakes and help you attempt to make better decisions in the future. There’s a lot to discuss in less than an hour, and we look forward to having you join the conversation.
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Although it was good to be surrounded by family and friends on Thanksgiving, we missed you, our listeners.
To make up for our absence, we would like to dedicate a portion of today’s radio show to answer your calls/texts regarding year-end concerns, including IRA contributions, Roth conversions and RMDs. Now is your time … so get those questions ready! Dennis will discuss an article by economist Robert Powers, which takes a closer look at the timing of the stock market and whether the increased warnings from well-known analysts of a stock market overvaluation holds water for those of us invested. Next, Heidi will highlight an article by Heather Schreiber, “Income Strategies for Young Widows: Addressing Their Unique Financial Challenges,” which examines the challenges widowed and single women face when it comes to retirement planning. We’ll take a closer look at financial strategies that can help address those challenges so that single/widowed women can move beyond merely surviving and thrive in their retirement years and beyond. Finally, Deann will share relevant stats to the topics at hand. We look forward to spending time with you via the airwaves.
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Social Security! Just when you thought you could do without it, here comes the check in the mail! (Just kidding, of course.)
Last year at this time, we had Bob Simpson, Manager of our local Social Security office, on the show to speak about Social Security and the COLA (cost-of-living adjustment) that was announced. On today's show, Bob will talk about another recent COLA made for those taking benefits starting January of 2025. While this is helpful information, there are several other changes being made to Social Security that we need to discuss, as well as benefit questions we continue to receive from our clients that you should be made aware of. As always, your questions are always welcome as we continue to navigate the complexities of retirement together. Bob is an extremely knowledgeable Social Security representative who should be helpful in answering your questions.
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The financial world is complex, and it is not uncommon to feel “in over your head” when trying to tread through the vast, turbulent waters of IRS regulations, tax planning and financial portfolios.
So much to learn. So much to know. So many questions. Join us on today’s show as Dennis highlights some of the top financial questions from financial professionals from around the country. We’ll test your financial knowledge as we embark on crucial questions with not-so-obvious answers. Next, Heidi will unpack and explain Section 327 of the SECURE 2.0 Act, which changed the rules for spouse beneficiaries. Although there has been confusion about this section, the IRS has successfully clarified Section 327 with new proposed regulations. Finally, Deann will share stats in regard to the hot topic of AI and the realities of such a lofty endeavor.
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On today’s show, we’re excited to delve into the meat and potatoes of finance with you and tackle questions like, “What are the chances of a soft landing in this economy?”
And, “What about those final RMD regulations being issued we’ve heard so much about?”(Well … maybe not so much on the RMDs.) Still, we intend to explore the recent tax law changes and provide you the stats we think could be helpful regarding the economic front. In the end, we think discussing these issues and answering your questions is well worth your time. So whatever it is you’re looking for on the financial planning front, we’re here to help! As always, Deann will conclude the show with stats related to the economic content.
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On today’s show, we commemorate the events of September 11, 2001, and honor all the heroes, armed forces, first responders, and countless others’ acts of service to defend our nation’s freedom.
We are excited to invite you to hear a phenomenal live presentation by Heather Cartwright, retired Director for the Federal Crimes Victims Division, who served in the U.S. Department of Justice, Washington, D.C., on September 11, 2001. Ms. Cartwright was responsible for coordinating support for victims of the surprise attack on our country, which took the lives of 3,000 innocent victims. This extraordinary first-hand account will take us all behind the scenes and give a closer look at the U.S. government’s response to the largest mass violence attack ever by a foreign terrorist organization on our shores.
According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid services, as of April 2024, approximately 67 million people are enrolled in Medicare, an increase of 2 million people since 2023. Deciding on healthcare is a significant part in planning for your retirement. There are many factors to consider when educating oneself in the complex field of Medicare. Fortunately, there are professionals who specialize in this and can help navigate eligible enrollees through the process … and we know two of them!
Laverna Witkop and Dawn McConnell from Ford Insurance Agency will join us LIVE on the show today. They will cover all the basics of Medicare as well as talk about the open enrollment period, known as the Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plan annual election period, or AEP, which is October 15 through December 7. It’s time to review and pay attention to changes. This also might be a good time to jump in! Open enrollment for individual health insurance plans is November 1 to January 15, 2025. Now’s the time to ask the experts, so have your questions ready. Tune in and take control!
Today, help us welcome Ed Slott as we discuss his unique perspective on the retirement landscape only a CPA with his depth of experience and education can bring. The Wall Street Journal refers to Ed as “The best source of IRA advice.” That’s one of many reasons we’re having Ed join us as we do periodically. As members of Ed Slott’s Elite IRA Advisor Group, which includes about 500 advisors around the nation, we ask Ed to update you, our listening audience, and share from his perspective. Dennis Prout, Heidi Cartwright and Nathan Prout are all members of this group through Ed Slott and Company. We’ll discuss the most recent updates of the SECURE 2.0 Act, if Roth conversions still make sense and, among other things, discuss the current tax laws and how they might benefit you from an income tax and estate tax planning standpoint.
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There’s a lot going on for today’s show! First, we’ll look at the potential changes to our estate and individual tax rates and discuss how that could impact us all with the sunset of the current tax law at the end of 2025. So many of us have already adjusted our estate plans and are planning for increased taxes on a variety of fronts. What else can we do and how should we approach it? Second, we’ll discuss what to do if you’re middle aged and behind in your savings. And finally, we'll wrap up the show with some relevant stats for today's economy.
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Did the Fed cut interest rates too much? What kind of impact might we anticipate? Sometimes to look forward it behooves us to look back. Today, we will discuss an article, from the Wall Street Journal, that takes us back to the 1980s. What can history teach us? Viewing previous market reactions and economic reactions to a decline in interest rates, might give us a glimpse into the future and how this might impact you and your finances. Although it has been a while since we’ve seen interest rates decline, it should be noted that history doesn’t repeat itself, however, it does tend to rhyme. Today, given the multiple bumps in the road and world changes, is a great time to look closer at what the impact might be and how you could respond.
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Trying to think more deeply about your financial future with so many economic uncertainties feels more like a non sequitur rather than a financial plan. “Where’s the stock market headed?” “What will tax rates be?” “Is our currency stable enough?” These are probably the most common themes that you are trying not to overthink. However, the one thing that we can be certain of is change. Stocks will fluctuate, interest rates will change, and tax rates will increase and decrease.
On today’s show, we will discuss two articles: “Investing in Companies at Times of Crisis,” by Capital Group, and “Are You Using the Right Tax Breaks to Boost Investment Returns,” published in The Wall Street Journal. Our hope in discussing these articles is to bring you a bit more logic, clarity and confidence in your investing. This is edge of your seat information you won’t want to miss! Okay … maybe not “edge of your seat,” but certainly good food for thought.
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Roth! Roth! Roth! Can you hear the steady chant from the financial advisors and tax experts around the world? Ed Slott, a Roth enthusiast, believes we have entered a rothification era. On today’s show, we’re about to blow your mind by playing the devil’s advocate. Dare we question the Roth? Is there ever a time when a Roth or Roth conversion may not be the best financial move? Yes. Jon Sluis, CPA and tax expert, from Intrust will join our show and guide us through a lively discussion about the tax implications of Roth conversions. Being wise with money and saving for your financial future is not easy and the answer is not always black and white; there’s a lot of emotion attached to the green stuff. If you dare, join us as we discuss the “other side” of the Roth. Tune in and take control!
“I’m retired, now what?” How does one find that balance between excessive and overly conservative withdrawals? Every retiree’s situation is different. On today’s show, Dennis will uncover some key strategies to help guide you into discovering a withdrawal balance that’s right for you. He’ll also take a closer look at the article, “3 key considerations for sustainable retirement income” by Capital Group. Next, according to the IRS Code Section 2518, the term “qualified disclaimer” means an irrevocable and unqualified refusal by a person to accept an interest in property, but only if one follows the rules. Who knows those rules better than Ed Slott? Heidi will lead us in a discussion based on Ed Slott’s current manual of those rules, as well discuss the possible advantages of planning with disclaimers. You might be surprised by the flexibility that disclaimer planning can offer. Deann will join in the conversation and share timely stats regarding the topics at hand.
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Retirement planning is not only about saving for your future, but also about leaving a legacy, like an inheritance for your loved ones. But what if there were another way, a tax-saving strategy, other than leaving an inheritance after one’s passing? Dennis is back and ready to discuss Ed Slott’s gifting strategies to help identify those who might want to take advantage of these benefits. Whether gifting to children or charities, you could save taxes in the long-term and help capitalize on tax-free gifting opportunities.
When it comes time to roll over a company plan, there are two questions one should ask: First, CAN the distribution from my company plan be rolled over? Second, SHOULD my distribution from my company plan be rolled over? Today, Heidi will discuss all the factors to consider when thinking about a company plan rollover as well as reasons to roll over a company plan to an IRA. And there may be reasons to leave your assets in the company plan. All this and more will be discussed as we dive into Ed Slott’s advice on such matters. Deann will join in the conversation and share timely stats regarding the topics at hand.
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On today’s show, get ready for a listening adventure as we discuss ... the economy! Specifically, we’ll talk about navigating the current economy in a world of uncertainty, as well as charitable giving through the lens of the IRA Qualified Charitable Distribution. So, strap on your helmets as we attempt to determine what’s happening and whether we are heading into a recession. (There, I said it.) Technically, however, a recession occurs when there are two successive quarters of declining gross domestic product. For an economy to tip into recession is not a stretch, but it always seems to be a worrisome thought for those who are concerned about the economy. Also, Dennis and Nathan will make this show an all-guys trio along with the host Ron Jolly. We’ll have lots of stats and information to assist you with the reality of a slowing economy and position yourself to take advantage.
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When discussing the state of the current American economy, we find ourselves at a place in time when negativity and uncertainty seem to take center stage. However, what if there were a glimmer of economic hope within these dark and uncertain times? On today’s show, we hope to illuminate a positive perspective as the United States takes center stage in global performance. According to a recent article by Capital Group, Economic Outlook: U.S. Powers Global Growth, the United States, along with Japan and India, find themselves in the top quadrant of resilient growth. As a result, the U.S. and India could generate strong tailwinds for the global economy due to a strong consumer-driven economy. Heidi will lead us through this discussion, on the global economy, as we look at the how, why and what could come from the impending election. And Nathan will highlight an Ed Slott article, “The Beneficiary Form Reigns Supreme – Even After 28 years.” July is as good a month as any to send a friendly reminder your way … CHECK BENEFICIARIES on your accounts. Beneficiary designation is one of the most vital parts of an IRA, and an inaccurate beneficiary designation could have devastating results for all involved. Check, double check and update if necessary. Finally, Deann will share stats to highlight the conversation at hand. We look forward to your texts and calls. Tune in and take control!
What? It’s mid-year already? Just yesterday, as my wife Jill and I walked around Boardman Lake, a gentleman reminded us that the days are getting shorter. (His wife, however, was not happy with that!)
Being that we’re halfway through the year, we think it’s a great time to cover your frequently asked questions about Social Security, especially concerning future benefit cuts occurring after 2034. We’ll also discuss an article from The Wall Street Journal about surging penalties from the IRS that’s costing Americans billions, and what this might mean for you. Fortunately, history can help us here. Last, using historic data from Capital Group, we’ll examine the potential opportunities available to us during the current economy as it continues its resilience and performance on the world stage.
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Do you know your RMD age? Now that taxes are simplified, there are four RMD ages and no longer just one. On today’s show, we’ll discuss numerous topics regarding RMDs, including: The various ages and what that means; the three steps to fixing a missed RMD; death and its impact on the RMD; work plan exceptions; and something called “RMD aggregation.” In the end, what may seem simple from afar can be much more complex up close. We’re excited for today’s discussion, and hope you will find it quite helpful. One further note, Dennis begins his sabbatical this week to write the book he’s wanted to do for a long time. He’ll show up periodically until his return in August. As always, your questions are welcome!
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Can anything in the tax law sunset? Yes it can! The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, which included several major changes and provisions in the tax code, will see a majority of those changes sunset after 2025. For some, this will mean a tax increase. For others (depending on what, if anything, Congress might do), this may not mean much of anything. Unless the package from 2017 is extended, several changes will occur. First, the standard deduction will get cut in half. Next, individual tax rates will increase when the current rates sunset on December 31, 2025. How do we respond, when in essence, we’re looking in a mirror darkly?
That is the question today’s show will deal with. If we anticipate that rates will increase, what (if anything) should we do now? What planning activities could we undertake rather safely and still profit and perhaps understand more of our options? We hope to answer these and any other questions with the help of Traverse City CPA, Jon Sluis. We look forward to a lively discussion and hope you can join us!
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Having just returned from our jaunt to Indianapolis to imbibe our insatiable need for new tax information, we are loaded for bear (if you will) with the most recent tax information related to IRAs, beneficiaries and the travails the mix of the two can cause. We will share this information to help you to navigate and deal with the ever-changing world of your retirement accounts as well as discuss the issues you should be most concerned about. Heidi will discuss one of the simplest rules to remember – the “Once per Year Rollover Rule” – and explain its shortfalls in order to avoid paying unnecessary taxes and penalties. Dennis will provide information on possible investment opportunities and help you separate AI hype from investment opportunity with an article from Capital Group. Last, we will discuss the ramifications if the Fed does not cut interest rates this year. As always, Deann will share the stats related to these topics, along with your questions via text or phone. Tune in and take control!
On today’s show, elder law attorney Deborah Rysso, of the Rysso Law firm in Traverse City, will discuss navigating all things related to aging, care and estate planning from a legal perspective. Deb has extensive experience with the application of legal documents and how they interact with life’s realities. It’s amazing how interactive the documents of law intersect with the workings of care, family relationships and financial planning. Deb’s real-life stories of what she sees on a weekly basis, helping her clients navigate, will certainly be beneficial to many of our listeners. As we discuss these points with Deb, we are also very excited to share her knowledge of Medicaid planning, the limits of these planning options and, in many cases, where they might be best applied. We are looking forward to hosting Deb and think you will enjoy and benefit from hearing!
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On today’s show, Dennis will detail the characteristics of Defined Benefit Plans and Defined Contribution Plans – including their advantages and disadvantages. So if you have questions about your plans, or want to better understand, this show is for you!
Because every investor’s needs are different, when planning for retirement, it is essential to map out a withdrawal strategy. Heidi will discuss the importance of understanding the portfolio reliance rate, which can help in planning for your future. She’ll also take a look at and further discuss how volatility affects withdrawals, how to tell if an investor relies too heavily on their investment portfolio, what determines a withdrawal rate, and the value of reducing withdrawal stress. And, as always, Deann will be sure to enlighten and educate our listeners by sharing stats in regard to our current economy. We look forward to answering all your questions via air, please text or phone.
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Today’s show title refers to the old axiom that no matter how well things are planned, unexpected problems may arise.
As we age, we may need some help with the details related to our financial lives that only very few can handle. Today’s guests are representatives from Fiduciary Services North. They will discuss the services they provide and understand when they may be needed. Things may not always go as planned. For instance, suppose you had anticipated being fully independent until your last day, but given today’s financial complexities, you need help with the basics of managing your monthly bills. Or, you have real estate that needs to be taken care of, and you’re not able to manage the property(ies) on your own. On the other hand, what if the probate court steps in and requires a guardianship be established to protect you and your estate from potential scammers? We’ll talk about estate settlement, court-appointed conservatorships and durable powers of attorney. Deann will bring stats to help with the details.
We’re thinking you’ll have lots of questions, so … tune in and take control!
This recent market analysis by Capital Group got our attention:
Over the last couple of years, the gap in both returns and valuations between small cap and large cap stocks has expanded against the backdrop of tighter monetary policy.
To further summarize, a well-known index is trading near a 20-year low on a relative basis versus large caps. Limiting your exposure to these assets will limit your risk, but it is always interesting to see where the opportunities might lie in our allocation strategies for the future. We believe you, too, will find it interesting as we discuss why this information could be helpful to your portfolio. Next, Heidi will discuss what retirees can do right now to reduce next year’s taxes, backed by some great quotes from our IRA tax consultant, Ed Slott. Finally, Deann will share stats that better illustrate the subject at hand.
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Amidst all the blather about an election (you remember, right?), where are the opportunities? Today, we’ll discuss the realities markets have historically experienced during an election year, how investors have responded, and the mistakes investors made. Long-time money manager, The Capital Group, will provide us stats going all the way back to 1933. We’ll also discuss recent moves in the gold market … so hold on to your hats on this one! Also, Nathan will discuss some very interesting findings from LPL Group that, we found, should be particularly helpful. And Heidi will discuss the rules of engagement for Roth IRAs and 529 plan conversions SECURE 2.0 Act. Deann will bring the stats to add to the conversation. So much to talk about! We truly appreciate you, our listeners, and we’re glad to be back live this Thursday!
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On today’s show, we’ll hear about the changes that the Marsh brothers at Bill Marsh Automotive Group are experiencing as they sell their long-held business to Serra Motors. About three years ago, in 2021, the Marsh brothers came on the New Retirement Radio Show to share their experience and knowledge gained over the years with their joint management of the business. They return today to discuss their transition out of Marsh Auto and shed light on this period – what they are learning from it from a business standpoint, and what they hope to personally accomplish in this next phase of their lives. As with all our shows, we hope to provide all our listeners a learning experience, whether you’re a business owner, thinking of retirement or are newly retired. We are very excited to hear from them, and hope you’ll tune in for a very active conversation with Bill Jr., Jamie and Mike Marsh.
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Around the turn of the previous century, Alan Greenspan made the following famous and prescient comment regarding the dot-com bubble:
“A decline in perceived risk is often self-reinforcing in that it encourages presumptions of prolonged stability and thus a willingness to reach for risk over an ever-more extended time period. History cautions that extended periods of low concern about risk have invariably been followed by reversal, with an attendant fall in the prices of risky assets.”
On today’s show, we’ll ponder and discuss several sources that we think you’ll find helpful in considering these issues as they relate to your own well-being and retirement. Next, Heidi will discuss the importance of getting good Social Security advice as well as explore some of the problems others have encountered in getting that guidance. Lastly, Deann will provide all of us stats of the day to help us all gain perspective.
Tune in and take control!
Market volatility can easily occur in an election year, which could affect your personal investments. On today’s show, we will review the Guide to investing in an election year, published by Capitol Group, in order help us all gain a better perspective. We’ll then discuss investors’ biggest questions like, “How can we invest with confidence in an election year?” “Which political party is better for investors?” “What typically happens to the stock market during election years?” “What have been the best ways to invest in election years?” Next, Heidi will discuss the 10 tax forms retirees receive and what they mean. Lastly, Deann will bring the stats to add to the discussion and help us all navigate what looks like a very interesting year.
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Many of us are familiar with that famous line from Mark Twain’s 1892 novel. In our attempts to deign what's going on in this economy, there is always enough warning for any of us and … of course … plenty of opportunity. Given the current trends we’re seeing in the stock market, especially with some indexes reaching all-time highs, we’re looking forward to see what the future might hold. It is truly amazing what can be gleaned from history. Given the dynamics of this market, it can be very helpful to us to remember the past and take what we can learn from it. On today’s show, Heidi will discuss the potential long-term impact of opening a Roth IRA for the teens in our lives, and Deann will provide the stats to bolster and brighten the conversation! And as always, your questions are welcomed to expand the dialogue.
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For the Sherlock Holmes aficionados in our audience, Sherlock would say, “Watson, the game is afoot!” This would often take them to new adventures of investigation. Today’s new adventure is planning for ever larger IRA balances and the impact this can have on you and your loved ones, given the stock market run we’re having, and key new IRA rulings for 2024. The IRS has already answered several questions about their official interpretation of new SECURE Act 2.0 regulations … but we intend to discuss this in more detail on today’s show! These new rules will be important to know as they can make a difference to your long-term financial health. Also, Heidi will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of paying off your mortgage for retirement, and what this can mean for your long-term financial success. Deann joins in again this week with the stats to add to the mix of retirement.
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John Wayne once said, “Life is hard if you’re stupid.” For investors, this means being wary of a whole lot of the information disseminated by the popular media of today. Today, we’ll be working with solid data to keep our focus on the information we know is certain. In that light, we’ll cover the economic news of the day from our primary research sources, which include Capital Group’s 2024 edition of their long-term perspective on markets and economies, as well as various economists like Ed Yardeni. We’ll have enough stats to assist you in getting a better idea of ’24 as well as current opportunities you may want to take advantage of. Next, Heidi Cartwright will discuss the new FAFSA rules and regulations related to saving for children and grandchildren’s higher education costs, and the surprising relaxing of some of these rules. Last, Nathan Prout will bring you the current stats of the day, which help so much with perspective.
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Welcome to 2024! We are excited for the New Year! Some say that the more things change, the more they remain the same. Well, a lot of things are changing in Traverse City and elsewhere on the ownership front as the Baby Boomer generation continues their respective exit(s) and begins to head for the door. As so many businesses are changing hands, we figured this would be an opportune time to ask Jon Sluis, CPA, what he’s seeing, advising and what areas owners should think about before and after the transaction. Timing, planning and opportunities can change quickly for those on the asset ownership side. We’ve already sat with Jon about the show this week, and we welcome your questions to round out the mix! We are glad to be able to bring you this as many of the highlights can add to your personal situation as you navigate pre- and post-retirement.
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Today on New Retirement Radio, CPA Jon Sluis joins us as we discuss year-end tax planning, IRAs, and the case coming before the Supreme Court next June, deciding whether or not Congress can tax unrealized gains. Taxing unrealized gains may sound like something you’d see in Russia or hear about in fifth grade as a lofty aphorism. Apparently, however, the Supreme Court feels the need to weigh in on this one because, according to The Wall Street Journal, it’s the most important tax case in decades. We’ll offer our opinions on what this proposal could mean and the impact might have on our economy. There are still lots of questions year-end planning, so Jon will share his best advice on how to approach this and help you navigate an always complex set of rules in the U.S. tax code. As always, your questions are welcome and anticipated!
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On this week’s show, we will honor the legacy of Charlie Munger, Vice President of Berkshire Hathaway, who passed away on November 28. His road to success was one where he started from nothing and achieved what very few others have by sheer hard work, associating with the best people he could, sprinkled in with significant talent honed over the years with significant research and experience. His axioms can help those pursuing higher achievement and a general attitude that can motivate us all. Next, Heidi will discuss the pros and cons of taking Social Security earlier or later (as the case may be) to help you potentially make a better decision as you think about retirement. Heidi’s information is from Heather Schreiber, RICP, and her monthly Social Security newsletter. This is an extensive piece, which we’ll discuss over the next two weeks, so we can fully cover all the material. Last, Deann will cover the interesting stats of billionaires passing on inheritances to their children and the amazing transformation occurring in that space. So much to cover in so little time!
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A recent headline on a story of James Caan’s estate read, “Estate of James Caan Whacked in Tax Case.” As you might guess, there is a lot to learn from others’ misfortunes. In this case, some unfortunate planning and advice put James Caan and his estate on the wrong side of the IRS. In the end, his estate owed almost $1 million in taxes and penalties. On this week’s show, we’ll discuss estate planning and the best ways to avoid tax consequences. Next, Heidi will discuss the economy and opportunities you might take advantage of given the anticipated eventual decline of interest rates. You might be surprised what these might mean and the thought leaders weighing in on this. We can’t always predict the future, but we can see indicators that can be very helpful in ascertaining where things might go. Last, Deann will provide us with plenty of stats to bolster and bring additional background to our discussion.
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Giving can be a good thing, so on today’s show we’ll discuss how you might do that and where might be the best place to utilize those funds. We’ll also continue by reviewing some deep and complex questions financial advisors asked Ed Slott at a recent conference in September. These questions will help with the everyday issues advisors are facing with their clients. Also, during our class last week, the Ed Slott team expressed their own frustrations with the complexity of new regulations and the questions still unanswered by the IRS. So we’ll shed some more light on these issues to hopefully help you navigate your finances and help with your ultimate best interest (no pun intended)!
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As we near the end of 2023, which is only about seven weeks out (can you believe it!?), it’s time to focus on end-of-the-year financial planning strategies as well as what’s in store for 2024.On this week’s show, we’ll discuss Ed Slott’s most recent newsletter, and questions to Ed from financial advisors at his most recent Successful IRA workshop. This will help us be aware of planning options with IRAs as well as learn some useful, not-so-common strategies. Natalie Choate will weigh in on charitable thoughts for IRAs that will help expand our potential. Next, Heidi will discuss new contribution amounts available for 2024 in IRAs and other retirement accounts, which are almost all increasing, giving you ever more flexibility with your retirement investments. Last, Deann will share new stats that will shed more light on these subjects. Your questions are always welcome! So tune in and take control!
Look out! Here comes the economy! So much to talk about and so little time should be the theme for this week’s show as we dive into what the major money management and economic firms are saying. You may ask, “What does this mean for me?” We’ll talk about how the markets are doing; how you can play offense in a very defense-oriented environment; and how you might further your own situation to actually take advantage of today’s higher interest rates. We’ll help you think through your options and potentially make better choices for your future. History can be very useful in helping us all gain more perspective about our current world. As always, questions are welcome! Call or text during the show and we’ll do our best to provide answers. Tune in and take control!
Social Security! Just when you thought you could do without it, here comes the check in the mail! (Just kidding, of course.) Last year at this time, we had Bob Simpson, Manager of our local Social Security office, on the show to speak about Social Security and the COLA (cost-of-living adjustment) that was announced. On today's show, Bob will talk about another recent COLA made for those taking benefits starting January of 2024. While this is helpful information, there are several other changes being made to Social Security that we need to discuss, as well as benefit questions we continue to receive from our clients that you should be made aware of. As always, your questions are always welcome as we continue to navigate the complexities of retirement together. Bob is an extremely knowledgeable Social Security representative who should be helpful in answering your questions. Tune in and take control!
November is just a few weeks away, which means the December 31, 2023, deadline for retirement planning is quickly approaching. Now is the time to wrap up the year with RMD, QCD and Roth conversion planning and focus on retirement planning for 2024.
On today’s show, Heidi will discuss the key features to the SECURE 2.0 Act provisions that will become effective January 1, 2024. It’s important for the advisors, as well as clients, to stay up to date and plan ahead for the important changes ahead. Nathan will discuss the five tax moves retirees should consider before December 31, as well as some strategies to help make your retirement income last. Deann will bring the stats with updates on our economy and the topics discussed.
So tune in and take control!
According to the Center for Medicare Advocacy, as of March 2023, nearly 65 million people are enrolled in Medicare, an increase of almost 100,000 since September 2022. Deciding on healthcare is a significant part in planning for your retirement. There are many factors to consider when educating oneself in the complex field of Medicare. Fortunately, there are professionals who specialize in this and can help navigate eligible enrollees through the process … and we know two of them!
Laverna Witkop and Dawn McConnell from Ford Insurance Agency will join us LIVE on the show today. They will cover all the basics of Medicare as well as talk about the open enrollment period, known as the Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plan annual election period, or AEP, which is October 15 through December 7. It’s time to review and pay attention to changes. This also might be a good time to jump in! Open enrollment for individual health insurance plans is from November 1 to January 15, 2024. Now’s the time to ask the experts, so have your questions ready.
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Today’s show will feature a special guest, Jennifer Ewing, who has lived in Traverse City for more than 25 years and has worked in the Human Resources field for more than 32 years.Unfortunately, Jennifer lost both of her parents, but she has gained much firsthand knowledge as the executor of her parents’ estate. Deann and Nathan will discuss Jennifer’s experience, covering all the helpful tips – what she wishes she had known, what she’s glad she knew prior to her parents’ deaths, and all the nuggets of knowledge in between.
Though this is a sobering topic, we hope to share some vital information for both parents and their children in planning for and ultimately facing the inevitable. Know there are financial professionals who can and will help navigate you through the details. Know to be tenacious and keep asking questions. Know that you’re not alone. Jennifer’s experience and contagious energy are sure to bring a lively show.
So tune in and take control!
We all remember the famous Wendy’s ad a couple of decades ago in which an older woman asked where the beef was in her burger. On today’s show, we’ll try to answer that question in terms of investment and/or allocation opportunities for you. Sometimes opportunity doesn’t knock … you must open the door! Capital Group, which oversees American Funds Group, recently published an update whose title is both intriguing and apropos: “As rate hikes near end, historic investor opportunity may begin.” The advisors at Capital Group believe we’re on the cusp of a major transition, where long-term investors can find attractive income opportunities as central banks pivot from restrictive monetary policies to something much more accommodative. Both Heidi and I (Dennis) will discuss these issues related to your longer-term investments and what your options might be to control risk and take advantage of the potential opportunity. Nathan will bring the stats, and there are a fair number this week, with updates on inflation and many others as we delve into the world of your money.
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When taxes decline, many questions typically arise. In the case of the State of Michigan rolling back the retirement tax, copious amounts of questions and confusion seemed to reign. Today on New Retirement Radio, we will discuss the graduated change in the tax. For all Michigan taxpayers, the income tax rate dropped to 4.05% in 2023, down from 4.25% in 2022. Pension income for public servants like police officers and firefighters, state troopers and others will be fully exempt from paying state income tax in 2023. Others who receive a pension may face a graduated change in their tax through 2026. This is a big change and will have a significant impact on all Michigan residents! So be nice to your tax preparer, as they may ultimately play a more important role for you going forward! Next, Nathan will discuss less well-known benefits of life insurance policies, including utilizing cash values at or near retirement. Last, Deann brings the stats on taxes as well as stories of fishing for salmon.
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The new economy continues to show itself to us. While (of course) we cannot guess the future, the present certainly cannot be discounted as to what it provides in terms of usable information. What indicators can tell us how the economy is doing? Are those who are most pessimistic wrong? Do we maintain or change our holdings given the reality of rising short-term interest rates and what seems like increasing risk in our markets? On today’s show, we’ll investigate what these indicators are and give our best in terms of real strategy to assist you in allocating your portfolio for an uncertain future. We’ll also learn some of the new rules for retirement accounts. Heidi will shed light on how to use today’s relatively lower taxes to your advantage. And Deann will weigh in on the economic front.
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The September 2023 edition of Ed Slott’s newsletter comes with stories and insights about elder abuse, where scammers within families steal retirement account funds, resulting in significant losses as well as tax penalties. This is another example of why accountability needs to prevail within families, especially when larger retirement account balances are involved. Of course, on top of the losses are the significant issues related to family and the difficulty in many cases of ever getting these funds returned. On today’s show, we’ll discuss what to do to arm yourself and your loved ones against this threat. Also, Heidi will discuss how to avoid scams and scammers, and how cyber security plays a key role in protecting yourself. Deann joins us as well to bring the stats related to our subject and shed more light and learning on this.
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Too much cash! Who would have ever thought this would be a problem? Given how rates for conservative fixed income investments – including CDs, Treasury Bills and all the rest – have risen so dramatically, the pressure to get out of low-yielding money market and savings accounts has risen significantly. Investors who rushed for the exits last year and plowed trillions into money market funds, now around $5 trillion, may be wondering if it’s time to retrace a bit. With so much to talk about and so little time, on today’s show, we’ll discuss what you might want to consider and how to cash in on today’s higher rates. We’ll also discuss how to get attractive income options, and what exactly those are. Heidi will discuss the article “The Five Biggest Mistakes People Make When Picking a Medicare Plan.” How complex can it be? You may be surprised! Last, Deann has the stats to bring as well as to where and how interest rates and the economy are showing up. We look forward to the show and your questions. Tune in and take control!
On our August 10 New Retirement Radio show, a caller asked about a recent article by Ray Dalio in The Wall Street Journal. Dalio has written and spoken extensively about the economy, including his November 2021 book, Principles for Dealing with the Changing World Order, which I think is a research masterpiece and have discussed on previous radio shows. The caller’s question piqued my interest in revisiting Dalio, so today we will discuss his take on the current economic situation as discussed by Spencer Jakab in the August 12 issue of The Wall Street Journal. Given Dalio’s experience in running the world’s largest hedge fund, we think you’ll find his comments pertinent and interesting. Then Heidi will weigh in on saving and planning for retirement by Generation Xers (people born between 1965 and 1980). Given their unique challenges, the advice may be helpful to us all in planning through our own set of circumstances. And Deann will share all stats wise and wonderful to add to the conversation! Tune in and take control!
Jon Sluis, CPA, joins us today to help us catch up on 2023 tax law changes as well as look out for future adjustments we need to be aware of. As you know, proper tax planning requires being aware of not only what’s new, but what has changed from the previous year. And you guessed it … there are lots of changes and updates for 2023 you need to know about. New retirement provisions that recently took effect will make a difference for your long-term planning. We will also discuss the impact of staying up-to-date on beneficiary designations to allow for maximum flexibility in the settlement of your retirement accounts. As we’ve seen with our own clients’ accounts, custodians of IRAs and other retirement accounts who are not aware of the current provisions within the law may negatively affect you and your loved ones.
Your bottom line can be impacted by these tactics, so tune in and take control!
The morning haze has made for some beautiful sunrises here in Northern Michigan recently. However, a similar type of “haze” continues to envelop our current economic situation. Are we in for a soft landing? What about interest rates, recession and the business cycle? Housing prices are another big unknown, with many professionals weighing in on the current housing market. On today’s show, we’ll continue the conversation about the current economy, even looking at whether global temperatures affect economic growth. Heidi will discuss the younger person’s use of summer earnings to start a Roth IRA, and how that might benefit your child or grandchild, and help them learn about the long-term benefits of starting a saving mindset. Last, Deann discusses a recent article in The Wall Street Journal about Northern Michigan and the stats surrounding the economy as well. Tune in and take control!
In a May 2023 Kiplinger article, Chris Abeyta, in discussing the transition from asset growth to income and protection, warns us of the “Retirement Hazard Zone” – the four to five years right after the pivotal age of 59½ that can greatly impact the rest of your retirement. In essence, Abeyta cautions readers to take action to protect their nest egg from significant losses while still growing it. Part of this equation deals with the reality that, for some, they need to take income from their portfolio. For others, it’s about the need for greater preservation as their mindsets have changed. And for a few, it’s about strategic allocation and utilizing diversification to its maximum potential while limiting downside risk in a volatile market environment.
Regardless of your situation, on today’s show we will discuss the “why” and “how” of the three phases of your retirement journey. Next, Heidi will discuss the IRS RMD (required minimum distribution) waiver for non-spouse beneficiary IRA accounts, as well as a 60-day rollover relief option for traditional IRA RMDs taken inadvertently because of the newly incepted age change to 73. You were probably thinking that no changes were in store after all the adjustments that were made recently, but these are to cover for individuals needing to catch up with the new rules. Last, Nathan, who is filling in for Deann, will give us the best of stats to help us along on the journey and pinpoint more economic and retirement reality.
Tune in and take control!
The beautiful summer weather seems to have everyone in a trance of warmth, ice cream, sandy beaches and the great outdoors (including the bugs)! Today, we’ll talk about the power of being a contrarian in a world that seems more confusing by the day. Included in this will be historical examples of those with very big voices who have been very wrong about the future. One example is the current residential housing market, which has stumped so many to continue strong despite ever-rising interest rates. Another is the continuing Fed attempts to rein in the economy with ever-widening interest rates, only hurting itself and our very own dollar in the process, and the future statistics on what that could look like. Next, Heidi will discuss mid-year frequently asked questions about Social Security planning for retirement. This includes what we might possibly see on adjustments to Social Security to control the cost. All of this, including great stats from Deann to bolster and add to the conversation.
Tune in and take control!
In a recent article in Kiplinger, Chris Abeyta explains how your retirement journey breaks down into three phases. Phase 2: “The Retirement Hazard Zone,” are the four to five years right after turning the pivotal age of 59-1⁄2. According to Abeyta, this is the time to take action to protect your nest egg from significant losses while still growing it. Part of the equation deals with the reality that for some, they need to take income from their portfolio. For others, it’s about the need for greater preservation as their mindsets have changed. For a few, it’s about strategic allocation and utilizing diversification to its maximum potential while limiting downside risk in a volatile market environment. Regardless of where you fall, we will discuss the why and how of the three phases of your retirement journey. Next, Heidi will cover a very timely article from Andy Ives of the Ed Slott team about what and how to deal with a retirement account when an owner dies. As a beneficiary, we’ll discuss the steps you will need to remember to take as you deal with what can be a very difficult time. I believe this will be an article of lasting importance and we will be posting this on our website for permanent reference. Last, Deann will cover the best of stats to help us along on the journey.
Tune in and take control!
How many times have you heard the phrase, “Talk is cheap”? We even alluded to this on last week’s show regarding the market’s response to Fed Chair Jeremy Powell’s proclamation that rates would begin to rise at the Fed’s July meeting on the 25th and 26th. On this week’s show, we’ll continue to discuss the rate environment and its impact on the economy. Why? Because the implications are very important and dynamically changing. What camp are we in? Currently, we agree with Simon White of Bloomberg who recently had this to say: “Rising global rate expectations are likely to be disappointed as slowing inflation significantly tightens real rates through the rest of the year, allowing central banks to deliver fewer rate hikes than predicted.” Currently, the stock and bond markets appear to be signaling this very outcome, and we think this continues to be a great subject to stay on top of with you, our listening audience! Heidi will also discuss the difference between Treasury Bills and Bonds and the two critical differences between them. And Deann will bring those stats to bolster the conversation along with your questions!
Tune in and take control.
So, you’d like to retire? Before taking the plunge, there’s a lot you need to think about. What are the common and not so common issues and financial hurdles for pre-retirees and retirees alike? What are the steps to consider or adjustments you have to make to move the needle in your direction in the face of a volatile economic environment? We’ll discuss these issues and more as we review several articles giving insight from the financial standpoint as well as practical input from our many years spent with clients and pondering these very same issues.
Next, Heidi will review and discuss this month’s Social Security Advisor article titled, “Harsh Reality: Americans Do Not Understand Social Security.” Many stats and results will follow pointing up the importance of understanding the impacts, inflation and the financial benefits of learning more about you and your loved ones’ options for taking Social Security benefits. Last, Deann will take us into the stats side to continue the conversation and shed more light on our knowledge base. Tune in and take control!
Have you ever felt the need to know more? Like you’re missing out on crucial news and information … especially for your financial well-being? While this can sound like a tall order, today’s show will be all about giving you the current, prevailing economic conditions. While we can only guess where the resultant markets might lead, we can glean more information to help in our decision making. We’ll discuss some of the current stats and information that you probably haven’t heard or perhaps even been able to process.
Heidi will also review recent article in which workers are claiming they’ll need more than $1 million to retire comfortably. Workers are scrambling to make that figure a reality, and we will discuss how you might achieve that goal. And Deann will have plenty of stats to bolster this and add to the storyline. Tune in and take control!
Whether it’s by phone, email or text message, it seems like the number of scam artists out there trying to get your money or personal information is at epidemic proportions. And thinking that “this only happens to the older set” could not be further from the truth … no one is immune. Another issue we’ve heard from our connections in the banking sector is that those taken in by these scams are utterly embarrassed and, as such, are unwilling to discuss this issue and allow the education one gets from others with similar life experiences.
Today, we’ll discuss the scam explosion that’s occurring and how to protect yourself. We’re on a mission to inform and expose this terrible crime foisted on so many. And the confusion and complexity of today’s financial world doesn’t help matters either. We’ll discuss not only the fact set surrounding how today’s very sophisticated scams occur, but also the psychological attitudes that surround the experience of those while they are in these situations to shed as much light as possible to help you and your family avoid this and understand when it may be occurring. The numbers are staggering as to the dollars involved. So let’s go there, and please call in with your stories! Tune in and take control!
There has been a lot of press lately about the future of AI, or Artificial Intelligence. Understandably, most are concerned about its impact on our lives – historically, socially and economically. Regarding investments, how do we navigate the companies involved in this advancing technology? What are some of the possible dangers that will be part of our new world. Some have likened this new technological revolution to the impact the railroads had on our nation about 150 years ago. The question always becomes, “Should I be worried?” and “What are the opportunities?” While we can never know all the dangers associated, on today’s show we’ll discuss what AI is, how it works and what it might mean to us. We’ll also discuss the companies involved that we are aware of and the opportunity they have in this new environment. Next (and you heard it here first!) Nathan will explain why the Roth IRA may not always be a good idea. Given that we are always talking up Roth accounts, you might be surprised at this! Lastly, Deann provide lots of stats on AI that will help us navigate the details! As always, tune in and take control!
You may have heard the song “If” by the ’70s group Bread. The beginning lyrics are: “If a picture paints a thousand words, then why can’t I paint you? The words will never show the you I’ve come to know.” Unfortunately, we can’t even come close to turning a traditional IRA into a ballad, but we can perhaps help you to soar a bit higher than you thought possible by using the most highly taxed account you own for a higher purpose: charitable giving. In essence, how could you leverage a highly taxable asset to do the good you can help others accomplish more readily than you can on your own? On today’s show, we’ll discuss an article Dennis wrote for Ed Slott’s newsletter called “Why Leaving an IRA to Charity Makes Sense.” We’ll review all the benefits and options for gifting some or all your IRA to charity. Then Heidi will follow with Vanguard’s outlook for financial markets and their perspective on everything from inflation to markets here and around the world. Deann, of course, will include stats to keep the conversation engaging. Please remember … your questions are welcome! Tune in and take control!
On today’s show, we’re diving into all things Roth IRA. Heidi will discuss the benefits of a Roth conversion, including a benefit most of us haven’t considered, a conversion as a gift to your beneficiaries. We will compare the possible outcome for traditional IRA beneficiary versus the possible outcome for Roth IRA beneficiary, so you can determine what’s best for you and your loved ones. Heidi will also cover some intriguing questions and helpful answers regarding inherited Roth IRA RMDs. This is timely and helpful information for those who might inherit a Roth IRA someday.
We welcome Nathan Prout to the show! He will be sharing the basics about annuities and how they can fit into an IRA. You’ll find the information helpful in determining whether an annuity is right for you. And Deann will offer us many pertinent stats related to the current economy and you! So, tune in and take control!
While we often discuss the financial realities of retirement and generating income or growth in an efficient manner while being aware of tax and other risks, we very rarely discuss the emotional aspects of retiring which, of course, can be huge. Are you ready to leave your career for something new and unchartered? Have you allowed yourself the time and preparation to prepare for the non-financial aspects of retirement? We have lots of great questions and areas to shed light on your situation, whether you are thinking of retiring or already retired.
Also, Heidi will cover the details of HSA plans for pre- and post-retirees who have access to this significant tax-advantaged account. And Deann will offer us many pertinent stats related to the current economy and you! Tune in and take control!
You’ve heard of settling an estate from the attorney’s perspective.Today, we’ll discuss settling an estate from a financial advisor’s perspective.Settling an estate involves much more than merely settling assets. Generally, it also includes filing the last will and testament, paying bills and taxes, filing the deceased’s final tax returns, distributing property and filing the final account. We will discuss what typically is the biggest dollar item in the estate and the mechanics involved in handling it. Our goal is to help you save time, money (potentially thousands of dollars in taxes) and, of course, stress. Given the complexity of today’s accounts, their tax benefits as well as other cost of disbursal, this is information you will want to know! Also, Heidi will share updates on Social Security, and Deann will provide the stats related to estates to help us along!
Tune in and take control!
Market gyrations are always unnerving, and today’s markets are no exception. Today, we’re going to discuss Fed Chairman Jay Powell’s recent quotes from his Jackson Hole, Wyoming speech and why we think the stock market responded as it did. Though the reality of the world in which we live is ever-changing, we can, at the same time, discuss what you can do about it, as well as consider why these are especially important times to make changes. We’re all trying to save money for a future goal or set of goals. Helping you (and us) remember or think more clearly about what that goal is will be an important part of our program this week.
As we enter school season, Heidi will be comparing 529 plans vs. Roth IRAs as a tool for funding our children’s education costs, and how these tools can work for both you and for them. Deann will have the stats of the week, too, to add to the mix!
Tune in and take control!
While we won’t speculate on whether the U.S. economy is actually in a recession, we think it’s important to discuss the practicality of retirement (or staying retired) given a relatively tough investing environment, rising interest rates, a falling stock market, and worldwide angst about Russia, China and other countries. We’ll review some great articles as well as analyze our own day-to-day experiences.
Then, Heidi will continue our dialogue on the details of the spousal Social Security benefit. And finally, Deann will have some interesting, eye-popping stats on the EV boom as an investment!
We are passionate about discussing matters that impact you, so tune in and take control!
Today is about changes! Wow, what a difference a week makes … or has it only been a day?
Today, we’ll talk about many topics, including individuals putting their spending on personal credit cards to dent inflation; the upcoming near historic Social Security benefit increase; as well as the beloved Accuracy-Related Penalties possibly imposed on IRA withdrawals.
We’ll also discuss a subject most near and dear to us – Roth conversions for all ages. We all know the amount of ink that’s been spilled about whether a Roth conversion is advantageous. One of the biggest issues (of course) is our age. Perhaps one might argue, if I’m 70 or older, could this still make sense? We’ll discuss this in depth as Ed Slott has dived into this pool, and we’re going to jump in too! After all, the water’s still warm, right? We’ll have some strong arguments as to why, especially today, you might want to consider this strategy. AND we’ll also talk about misconceptions that still rage around Roth conversions.
Tune in, and we’ll try to turn up the temperature in your financial world of information!
Welcome to our ever-changing, ever-evolving financial universe.
A famous radio host used to describe things as being, “… on the leading edge of societal evolution.” Today, we’ll discuss “quantum computing,” a recent megatrend that, according to Haim Israel, Global Strategist and Managing Director of Research at Bank of America, “Could be bigger than the discovery of fire.” We’ll explain how the impact of high tech and data management on our world in the next decade could be truly amazing.
Next, Heidi will discuss “catch-up contributions” for those who wish to max out their tax qualified plans for the year. The amounts you’re able to put aside may surprise you. And for those over 50 years old, this might prove to be very helpful.
And finally, Deann will discuss the stats of the day, many of which should help to enlighten us all on current trends!
Tune in and take control!
While the markets have been quite volatile recently,for today’s show, we thought it might be helpful to see what these numbers can mean for you in the future.Of course, we can’t predict the future, but we know that past performance is a good indicator of future behavior. In fact, we can delve all the way back to 1835 to see how markets from previous generations have responded to show the depth and breadth of what we might experience in today’s economic climate. Even if today’s stock market and asset market respond differently than before, the symmetry of history may still be helpful for the perspective we need.
Also, Heidi will uncover the secrets related to the benefits of paying back COVID-19-related withdrawals from IRAs and retirement accounts.
Sometimes, learning can be most instructional when we’re ready, as in peering into the glass when uncertainty reigns. We’ll do our best to unmask this mystery just for you! Tune in and take control!
While life insurance is certainly not a sexy or thrilling, edge-of-your-seat subject, it can serve as a very practical tool in today’s economic climate. In fact, some advisors consider it a bit “edgy.” Primarily, life insurance is a way to protect your loved ones and help leverage their financial woes in the event of your untimely death. However, the impact life insurance can have while you’re alive can be surprising, too, given its tax advantages. This can include business-related transactions to transfer business values or cover key persons within the business.
Tax advantages can amount to significant dollars during your lifetime, like tax-free withdrawals for income and other emergencies, not to mention a fully tax-free death benefit. The number of times clients have been dumbfounded at the thought that Dad’s life insurance was/is tax-free is almost uncountable. Many times, surprise in a most positive way has been an enjoyable conversation to have.
This week, Deann will discuss lots of stats related to this, and Nathan and Heidi will be joining in on the conversation too! Tune in and take control!
A couple weeks ago, I (Dennis) dedicated a significant amount of time to finishing my continuing education requirements in order to earn the Certified Private Wealth Advisor designation. In the middle of a very intense 24-hour session, a PhD accountant from the Booth School of Business in Chicago gave a surprising, edge-of-your-seat piece about tax-advantaged business sales and the reported tax benefits as shown by the required public disclosure, including how individual business owners can do the very same for themselves and those that follow.
The information from this class (about 75 pages in all) has already been sent on to today’s guest, Jon Sluis, CPA. And when Jon is in the house, you know there’ll be a lot of great information … as well as a few surprises! We’ll discuss all the exciting, gory details, and you may well be pleasantly surprised at the sheer size of the tax savings should you decide to employ these savvy options. We can’t wait to dive into this topic, and we hope you can join us! Tune in and take control!
“Forecasts create the mirage that the future is knowable.” Given our bent to discuss the markets and economy, there is no better reality check than the astute words of American Economist Peter Bernstein. In the end (of course) we all must continue to take as much responsibility as we’re able, and to act in the way most prudent for ourselves and our future.
On today’s show, we will discuss the current economy but also time-tested ideas and information to help us deal with the reality on the ground. While the things we can’t control seem to grow daily, we’ll dive into the areas we can control. You get it, this approach can mean a greater chance of success in the long term as well as understanding what the veterans of such times are saying. Lots of questions and so many uncertainties can present opportunities for those who are patient.
See you today, where you can tune in take control!
When should I collect Social Security? How do I find out how much my benefits will be? What about disability benefits? Child survivor benefits?
On today’s radio show, we’ll tackle many of the common questions and themes we hear from our clients regarding Social Security. And joining us in our studio will be our own local expert, Bob Simpson, Northern Michigan District Manager for the Social Security Administration. We’ll discuss these and many other issues surrounding Social Security, like taxes, benefit reductions due to outside work, breakeven points for having waited to start benefits, and collecting during economic uncertainty.
Feel free to call in and discuss your situation with Bob. He is an excellent and trustworthy source for your inquiries! We hope you join us as you tune in and take control!
A recent headline from a well-known financial publisher read: What to Do When Recession Threatens Your Retirement.Many of our clients at Prout Financial Design are expressing similar sentiments, and are wondering if they should wait to retire or simply adjust their plans based on the current down market. Given that the U.S. stock market just suffered its worst first half since 1970, these questions are common themes we’ll see for some time.
So for today’s show, it makes sense for us to discuss what’s on most peoples’ minds as the markets decline into possible recession. We’ll delve into this with articles, background and even formulas for adjusting spending that Vanguard utilizes with non-profit organizations. Next, Heidi will discuss the Social Security cost of living increase and how to take advantage of I bonds. Last, Deann will borrow the best of the stats to share with you. So tune in and take control!
When “life” happens (as it certainly has this past year) to those with retirement accounts,questions often arise regarding how or when to take Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) in the midst of a declining stock market, as well as determining what type of accounts are best to tap in the event of a hurricane or other natural disaster. If you’ve been waiting to take these RMDs out of necessity or timing considerations, you won’t want to miss today’s show! We’ll be discussing the numerous options you have in making these withdrawals, and perhaps even present a few you may not have considered. There are surprisingly many ways to change up your distribution to lessen the pain of a lower stock market and even avoid possible penalties. Ed Slott, CPA, has weighed in on this topic, and we’ll add his thoughts to the chorus. Heidi will be discussing how to avoid the most recent scam regarding student loan payoffs, and Deann will chime in with stats you’ll love to consider!
See you this Thursday at 10 a.m. or Saturday at 9 a.m. Tune in and take control!
Today on New Retirement Radio, we’ll be discussing an article from Financial Planning magazine titled “Wealthy investors do a lousy job of telling heirs what they’ll get.” Apparently, the rich are like everybody else in America in that they typically don’t like to talk about money. But for investors with significant assets to pass on to their heirs, that can be a very costly problem. Deann will provide stats that underscore many points in this article. With the sheer size and complexity of assets passing to the next generation, we’ll discuss the importance of enlightening the next generation. Next, Heidi will cover the benefit of working two jobs and how that may give you access to more than one retirement plan, which may benefit you greatly. Whether or not you have access to such a strategy, this discussion should help you understand the world of retirement plans and how to better take advantage of these wonderful wealth-building tools. Tune in and take control!
Much like the flu season, tax season is never greeted with joy. If only there were a vaccine. As Will Rogers said, “The only difference between death and taxes is that death doesn’t get worse every time Congress meets.” This week, Jon Sluis joins us to talk about the hot issues related to the tax filing date, which is on April 18 this year, as well as common audit triggers, unrealized and realized losses, SEP IRA and Simple IRA Roth options and your tax questions! Whether or not Will Rogers weighs in, we’ll be generating all the heat and energy we can muster during this tax season to keep you informed as possible! And, as always … tune in and take control!
If you’ve listened to our program long enough, you know that when going through your year-end tax planning, we’ve always encouraged those doing a Roth IRA conversion to pay the tax owed with funds outside of the Roth to achieve the most benefit. But is that still advisable?
On today’s show, we’ll discuss an article from the November issue of Ed Slott’s newsletter that may cause you to think otherwise. You may decide to be more aggressive than usual by paying taxes owed (if needed) from the IRA itself. The tax benefits over time that you’ll still receive (albeit to a lesser degree) from a Roth conversion can still make a positive long-term difference! Gazing into the future in this case may be especially valuable for you and your family.
Also, Heidi will discuss year-end tax planning tips and other planning ideas. Deann will join us, too, with stats relevant to today’s topics. We promise real information to help you think more deeply about your financial situation to help improve your own game! See you today 10 a.m. or on Saturday for the rebroadcast at 9 a.m.
Tune in and take control!
Wow, what a difference a month makes, right? It seems while we’re still celebrating Thanksgiving, the next question becomes, “When can we pick up the Christmas Tree?” In concert with that today, Dennis will discuss last-minute year-end tax planning strategies, and Heidi will review Baby Boomer spending habits and the impact on their retirements. Deann will make a bit of a change to the stats this week to discuss common questions and answers that Ed Slott’s team receives regarding retirement assets and accounts. And if we have time, we’ll also discuss the current economy and projected interest rate changes we may see soon. All this as well as your questions and comments to everything financial. See you Thursday (or Saturday) and always remember … tune in and take control!
The ink has not yet dried on all the changes brought about by the Secure Act of 2020 and its ultimate impact on us, our children, and their families. The rules keep changing and so do the opportunities to take advantage as well as make some costly mistakes. We will be discussing the 5-step guide to plan-to-IRA rollovers from Ed Slott’s most recent November IRA newsletter. In the show, we will address sample situations from clients and similar decisions they are facing with pension plans and the effects of a rapidly increasing interest rate. The complexities are surprising. Having a strategic decision-making matrix in place to guide you can be invaluable, whether you’re 45 or 75. Heidi will be discussing the new IRS rules regarding allowable contribution amounts as well as the new 2023 tax rates. Deann will bring the news on the stats front to round it out and we’ll have several exciting announcements too!
Tune in and take control!
Special Guests Laverna Witkop and Dawn McConnell
According to Pew Research Center, the rate of retirement for Boomers has accelerated since COVID-19 began. Nearly 29 million Boomers retired in 2020, three million Boomers are expected to retire by 2030, paving the way for what is now called "The Great Retirement," which may surpass The Great Resignation as the most significant hiring trend for 2022. This is a staggering stat! What most folks forget to consider in their retirement plan is healthcare. Believe it or not, there are professionals who specialize in this, and we know who they are!
Join Laverna Witkop and Dawn McConnell from Ford Insurance Agency who are LIVE with us today. They will talk about the annual election period (AEP) for Medicare Advantage plan (October 15 through December 7). It’s time to review and pay attention to changes. This also might be a good time to jump in! Open enrollment for individual health insurance plans is from November 1 to December 15, with a possible extension.
So tune in and have your questions ready!
One question we often hear from our clients is, “What happens if we need some money out of our tax qualified accounts? Are we subject to any additional costs or tax penalties?” The good news is that penalty exceptions/options are growing, so this week Dennis will discuss how you may legally withdraw funds in the most tax advantaged way possible. We’ll also finish last week’s notes on the economy as promised from the radio show commentary. Then, Heidi will cover Ed Slott’s advice about spousal beneficiary mistakes to avoid. We think this information is incredibly important and encourage your questions! Lastly, Deann will bring up-to-date stats on the subject at hand to add to the mix! Tune in and take control!
Last week, a gentleman had a question about finding a financial advisor in his community. Based on that inquiry, we think it’s important to discuss the appropriate questions to ask when searching for a new financial advisor to determine if that person is right for you. We’ll also round out the conversation and help you think through the areas or specifics you’ll want to address when meeting with a Financial professional.
Heidi will discuss Vanguard’s read on the economy and their interpretation of whether or not we’re headed into a recession. We think it’s relevant and timely information you’ll want to take advantage of. We’ll also feature some IRA questions for Ron Jolly, and Deann will take a different track with this week’s stats that we think you’ll find equally interesting! Lots to review this week, so join us today at 10 am (or listen to the rebroadcast Saturday at 9 am). Tune in and take control!
Sometimes a bit of perspective is helpful, so on today’s show we’ll do our best to give you a dollop or two about the current economy. Specifically, we’ll put into context how where we were just a few short years ago matters to the course correction being instituted by our own Federal Reserve. This reminds me of the old axiom, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” As everyone knows, we are getting a fair pounding right now in the form of ever-increasing interest rates on the economy. For those who save in the most conservative way, this is a much needed boost. But for those who operate in this economy by providing goods and services, the challenges increase. We’ll also look at some fair amount of analysis to help us through the weeds and hopefully provide some daylight and information helpful to you. Heidi will discuss the effects of insurance coverages on your accounts and what that means. Deann will bring insight with stats meant to enhance the conversation. AND, as usual, your questions by phone or text are always welcome! Join us on Thursday, March 30, at 10 a.m. (or the rebroadcast on Saturday, April 1, at 9 a.m.) for an early spring getaway! Tune in and take control!
Because Christmas is just around the corner, we’ll quiz Ron Jolly on some common retirement questions to see what he “knows” as well as shed some light to our common (and not so common) questions. And while there’s still time … we’ll also discuss the topic of year-end tax breaks that we didn’t get to cover on last week’s show. Heidi will discuss Capital Group’s guide to recessions and how to prepare for it. (With all this “happy talk,” we might just need an extra round of chocolate to keep the goodness and light shining!) And, as always, we welcome your questions of a financial nature either by text or by phone. Come and join us, where we really do attempt to cover the issues most related to your financial concerns on a weekly basis. Tune in and Take control!
It seems that there’s been a contagion of mismatches lately. Specifically, Silicon Valley Bank’s (SVB) demise (and very likely many others soon to follow) as well as today’s economic numbers should give us all plenty to think about and dig deeper into. The speed at which SVB fell was shocking. Most of us non-Westerners never heard of this bank, unless of course you follow Jim Cramer, who was touting SVB as a great investment just last month. This past weekend, however, after a week of rapid decline, the FDIC took over SVB and is pledging to make good on all depositors’ assets. So what can we learn about this for our own situation? On today’s show, we’ll uncover what happened to SVB and discuss how we might apply any lessons to our personal situation. Heidi will discuss the five-year rule related to Roth conversions, and Deann will have stats aplenty to add to the conversation, which we think will be fast and furious this week! So tune in and take control!
Though most people aren’t really comfortable talking about death, planning for our own estates can leave many of us wishing the reality weren’t quite so serious. So, on today’s show, we’ll try to keep the conversation with Cortney Danbrook, estate planning attorney here in Traverse City, informative, insightful and on the lighter side as we discuss the “what-ifs” and keep it realistic. Deann will add stats related to the subject to emphasize as much as possible about life and the inevitabilities we will all face one day. So join us this morning on WTCM with your estate planning questions. Tune in and take control!
Penalties can happen to anyone, and with IRAs, there are two types that commonly occur: RMD and excess contribution. The SECURE 2.0 Act had created some significant changes regarding these penalties, so today on New Retirement Radio, Heidi will discuss these in depth and give you a deeper understanding to help you avoid them altogether! Nathan Prout will be joining us in the studio to discuss a new class of beneficiaries called “eligible designated beneficiaries,” or “EDBs.” Tune in to find out what this means for you, including advantages of EDBs versus non-EDBs and more. Tax season is upon us, so we will share the five things you need to know when making a 2022 Roth IRA contribution. If time permits, we will discuss an article from The Wall Street Journal titled “The Last-Minute Retirement Plan Moves That Can Cut Your Tax Bill.” Believe it or not, there’s still time to make last-minute retirement contributions that could lower your tax bill. Deann will dive into the conversation and share the latest data. We look forward to our time with you live on WTCM AM 580 this morning from 10-11 a.m. Tune in and take control!
Does this email look familiar to you? Unfortunately, due to Covid, we had to postpone last week's show and rebroadcast a former show. However, we're back and feel better than ever. Looking forward to spending the hour with you!
The ever-changing income scene as well as potential opportunities you might take never cease to amaze. But at least it gives us more to talk about than the unseasonable weather lately.
First, we will discuss the impact of 8.7% increase in Social Security – specifically, how it will impact those who are not yet collecting, and how it will affect the Social Security Trust Fund. Second, the Medicare situation also bears watching as we continue to observe how that performs. Finally, given the declines we’ve seen in the stock market last year as well as the anticipated volatility this year, we will examine how to best approach 2023 for opportunities and cautions.
On last week’s show, CPA Jon Sluis talked about the tax law changes brought about by the SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022, which was signed into law by President Biden on December 29, 2022. Unfortunately, because there was so much to discuss and so many changes, we could only scratch the surface.
So for todays’ show, we’ll continue the discussion and share even more information as it’s disseminated to us. We’ll also interpret and clarify this new information, and hopefully address all your questions and concerns. The changes brought about by the SECURE 2.0 Act were so sweeping that Ed Slott has devoted his entire January newsletter to this subject matter. It’s not often we see something of this magnitude, and the impact may be rather significant to you in the future!
On today’s show, CPA Jon Sluis joins us as we sharpen our focus and (hopefully) our financial well-being as we examine changes to the tax law that were effective on December 23, 2022, as well as adjustments wrought in by the New Year. Ed Slott also has a lot to say about this, so we will share his notes to keep you well-informed. Much will be written and said about these tax reworks, so we’ll discuss how you can reap the most benefits and use these changes (with examples) to help motivate you to action.
Today, Ed Slott, CPA, joins us as we discuss the new SECURE 2.0 Act as well as Ed’s own personal strategies for retirement.Ed is a nationally recognized IRA distribution expert, professional speaker, TV personality and best-selling author. His most recent books include Retirement Decisions Guide: 2023 EditionandThe New Retirement Savings Time Bomb. Ed brings a tremendous amount of personal experience and professional expertise to the spectrum of retirement planning, and this same background will be shared with us in this pre-recorded program. As we discussed just after the recording, we were still amazed at the energy, knowledge and enthusiasm Ed shared with us. We are excited to have you share in this, as we talk about many subjects, including Roths, and new rules and regulations. We hope this motivates you to continue your own beneficial journey of knowledge and practical assistance. As always, tune in and take control!
Last week, we discussed Capital Group’s “Five Keys to Investing in 2023.” Unfortunately, we only got through the first two before we ran out of time, so Dennis will wrap up that discussion in the first part of today’s show.
A recent article in The Wall Street Journal reports that more Americans are tapping into their 401(k) savings due to economic and financial hardships. Since 2018, the government has loosened the rules for taking such withdrawals. But what qualifies as a hardship withdrawal? When, if ever, is it appropriate to make a withdrawal? We will answer these questions and more, and discuss the pros and cons of a 401(k) withdrawal versus a loan.
Tax season is upon us, so Heidi will share some timely advice regarding “Seven Useful Facts about Tax Diversification and Retirement.” And Deann will highlight some thought-provoking stats that are sure to intrigue. We look forward to hearing from you (via call or text) live on WTCM AM 580 this morning from 10 to 11 a.m. (with a rebroadcast on Saturday from 9 to 10 a.m.). Tune in and take control!
Capital Group companies have been managing assets since 1934. When we read how they differ from the status quo for 2023, as well as their five keys to investing in 2023, it totally piqued our interest!We figured that, given the noise we all see out there with different opinions, you might appreciate a different take on where things might be going as to the economy. In this same vein, we’ll discuss how to handle market declines. As virtually every asset dropped in value in 2022, we thought this might also be helpful. We continue to arm ourselves with information we’ve trusted over the years and are glad to share it with you. Heidi will also join us with information on how to save for retirement when you’re in your 30s. Deann will highlight the stats, bolstering and perhaps even surprising you with her statistical perspective. We look forward to hearing from you (via call or text) live on WTCM AM 580 this morning from 10 to 11 a.m. (with a rebroadcast on Saturday from 9 to 10 a.m.). Tune in and take control!
The “Inflation Reduction Act” just passed in the Senate, which was approved on a tiebreaker by Vice President Harris. At the end of this week, it will come up for vote by the House of Representatives, which is expected to (you guessed it) PASS! We will discuss in detail what’s in this new bill, and what this sweeping new legislation will mean for you personally, financially and from a tax perspective.
You may have decided to overcome inflation by purchasing a lottery ticket for the $1 billion+ prize that an Illinois resident recently won. What would the tax be, and how could you plan for such a windfall? We will discuss in detail practical options you may decide to take, as well as how to deal with your own lump sum presented within your retirement accounts or employer.
Welp, Heidi is back from a great trip to Nashville for the Ed Slott conference with updates galore! Today, Dennis and she will refresh your memory regarding: IRA beneficiary form mistakes to avoid; estate as retirement plan beneficiary; choosing a charity as a beneficiary; and spouse and non-spouse beneficiaries. Next up, they will discuss health care taxes and the impact on IRAs, the 10-Point IRA Trust Checklist, and the new DOL rule your advisor should be following.
It's going to be an action-packed show with more information than time to cover it.
The pandemic changed many things. We witnessed “The Great Resignation.” According to Pew Research, the nation’s “quit rate” reached a 20-year high last November.
Were you one of those who left?
If so, do you know all the options you have available to you for your company retirement plan distribution? Whether it’s a 401(k), 403(b), 457 or another type of company plan, there are several ways you can move or take the money. From an IRA rollover to a Roth conversion to a lump-sum distribution, it’s important to understand your options before making any decisions to avoid costly tax mistakes. There may also be significant tax-saving strategies to consider that are only available at the time of your distribution, so it is critical to proceed with caution.
In this two-part show, Heidi and Shea will discuss two key elements of retirement planning: Taxes and Transitions. Heidi will delve deep into the implications of how accounts are taxed, so that you can make a strategic plan to withdraw accordingly. Not all accounts are the same and, as the rules change, you must change your plans too.
Shea, a Certified Life Coach, will talk about the importance of understanding how to manage your transition into retirement. Even if you’re looking forward to it, having a plan to manage the change in relationships, time and resources will require a new set of tools.
Some shows can’t be summed up in one theme … especially when we have way too much to discuss! This week, we will revisit the SECURE Act regulations and what you need to know. The IRS is constantly working to clarify this law and has created more questions than answers. We will do our best to help “cut through the clutter” and get the answers you need!
Second, what does it take to plan for disabled and chronically ill IRA beneficiaries considering the SECURE Act rules? Don’t miss out because there’s a lot to discuss!
And finally, Heidi will help answer the question, “How much mortgage can I afford with the current interest rates?” This certainly is timely for those looking to make a change in their housing or purchase a second home.
Stay tuned and get ready to take some notes! This show will be full of great information. Also, don’t forget that you can text us LIVE at 231-237-7855 or call at 231-947-0023.
Tune in and take control!
History repeats itself, which is why we expect a recession about every six years. In fact, since 1945, the U.S. economy has weathered 12 different recessions. (History.com)
In 2020, when COVID-19 hit, we experienced such a small recession that it paled in comparison to 2009 – which was 13 years ago. We’ve been discussing this impending doom for quite some time.
Is it possible to rise above the decline? We think so.
In the coming hour, Shea will ask rapid-fire questions to our advisors, Dennis and Heidi, who have been studying the market, getting advice from their advisors and helping clients navigate this chaos. As always, we recommend you rise above the noise and consider all the possibilities. This show will teach you how to do just that!
According to a survey from Realtor.com, around 12% of baby boomers plan to sell their homes in the next year – a larger share than any other generation surveyed. They are a generation rich with real estate. In fact, according to Federal Reserve data, boomers surpassed the Silent Generation in real estate wealth in 2001. You can read more in the New York Times article, “Baby Boomers: Rich With Real Estate and Not Letting Go.” To deepen the conversation, it’s important to remember that the Silent Generation and the Baby Boomers, upon their death, will transfer an estimated $30 to $68 trillion to adult children.
Can you say, “Wowzer”?
Good thing we have a tax man, Jon Sluis with us today who can translate the implication of inheriting real estate, joint tenancy, recapture rates and selling commercial property for retirement income. This is a show you won’t want to miss – especially if you’re investments are in land.
Tune in and take control. It’s all fun and games until you must pay the government … again!
As you can imagine, client questions have intensified as the market changes direction…again! There is always a dance between planning and pivoting. Financial planning requires us to be measured with both. We have the privilege of sitting with you week to week. We get to listen to your concerns, evaluate your options and focus on opportunities.
Today, Shea will ask your questions and Heidi will answer. Our discussion will include Ed Slott’s “Battle of the Roth Options” to help clarify the difference between a Roth IRA vs. a Roth 401(k). While we’ve mentioned it in passing before, we’ll dig a little deeper this week!
Tune in and take control.
Our friend, Joe, has been planning his retirement since he was in his 20s. His paycheck, savings, real estate investments and IRAs were constantly tweaked to “perfection.” What is perfect for you? Is it a large retirement account? Not living here in the winter? Having family nearby? Working until you can’t?
Start by defining your perfect retirement, then work back accordingly. Asses your risk tolerance and be HONEST! Are you willing to take a 20% downturn in the market, and do you have time to recover? Do you have life insurance that your beneficiaries can benefit from? What about taxes?
The list goes on and on when it comes time to craft the “perfect” retirement. It starts with you dreaming about what it could look like and ends with executing the plan. The rest is a mystery, and we enjoy helping you navigate it!
The Elite Advisors of our office – Dennis, Heidi and Nathan – have recently returned from the Ed Slott Conference in Kansas City, and they are full of exciting updates regarding “all things IRA.” Heidi will focus on the common mistakes people make when inheriting IRAs.
For the first time ever, we have Nathan Prout joining the show LIVE to weigh in on his insights. Nathan graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Finance . He is an Elite Advisor with Ed Slott and company, LLC, and is our Director of Client Services. If you decide to create a financial plan, Nathan is the one who ensures data accuracy for our advisors. He is currently working on his Series 65 and will be a financial advisor in the very near future! When he’s not at work, he’s home with his wife Sarah and their new baby girl Simone.
Join us today as our three “money people” take over the airways!
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2021, 34% of adults aged 15 and older had never been married. And nearly one-third of single adult men live with a parent. In fact, if you read this article in TIME magazine, you’ll discover that “marriage is becoming an increasingly elite institution – people get married for economic advantages.” Married? It’s very rare for a married couple to die on the same day, meaning, one of them will be single later in life managing day-to-day finances alone.
Join us today as we switch the conversation from couples to singles. Our guest, Bob Simpson from the Social Security Office, will share some valuable information for those making decisions about Social Security alone.
Are you thinking about semi-retirement? Ya know … where you work a little bit but not too much? It’s a way to dip your toes into full-time retirement without getting in too deep. You might negotiate a part-time position at your current job and golf part-time. Or, you can pursue a new career altogether and collect from a retirement account. What if you volunteered part-time and started a consulting company part-time?
The possibilities are endless IF you’re willing to dream about them. This show really takes the cake when it comes to the creative side of retirement planning.
Know what you want. Make the numbers work, then work part-time!
The pandemic forced three million of America’s Baby Boomers into unexpected retirement, according to economics journalist Nate DiCamillo. This may not be a permanent choice, but it’s a concern for those who are suddenly forced to draw from their retirement accounts indefinitely. In a Gallup survey taken in 2018, most Americans expect to retire at age 66; today, however, most will retire around age 60. That’s about 26% of retirees who must leave the workforce earlier than expected.
Today, we are going to talk about how to draw from accounts considering the early withdrawal penalty. We will discuss in detail the “Rule of 55.”
“Now is no time to think of what you do not have. Think of what you can do with what there is.” -Ernest Hemingway
When talks of inflation began at the beginning of the year, the word “transitory” was used frequently. Meaning, was inflation here to stay or would it pass? We now know the answer. So, what does that mean for your pocketbook in the short term and your retirement in the long term? The plane ticket to visit the grandkids one year ago is now double, if not triple, the cost. Decisions must be made differently … AGAIN! The realities of inflation will continually affect our lives and investments, but does it also could mean there’s a recession on the horizon?
Today, we are going to look at the graphs, numbers and historical data to shed light on these questions while also giving you tips on how to evaluate your finances.
Forgive us. We needed a holiday pun and couldn’t find one any one better than “Eggs in a Basket” when it comes to retirement planning.
Today, we are going to focus specifically on your 401(k) and learning how to draw from that account in retirement. When you look at your retirement nest egg, there are probably several sources of income from which you can draw. The questions then become, “Which egg? From which basket? When? How much? What if it’s a Cadbury?” Well, unlike your 401(k)s, the Cadbury should be consumed all at once!
Join Shea and Heidi this week for a lively conversation about income strategies in retirement, also known as “Cracking the nest egg.”
We think it’s fair to say that retirement is something we all look forward to. It will be great to say, “It’s Saturday every day!” The pandemic, however, rearranged plans for a lot of folks – some were forced to retire early, and others decided to quit while they were ahead. Meanwhile, the rest of us are redesigning what our retirement might look like. Should we stay on a few years longer considering inflation? Should we retire now and start a side hustle? What will the transition look like?
Join Dennis and Shea today as they cover challenges you might not expect and questions to ask yourself as you make the change.
“Every which way you turn, there is something different because of the tax law changes that have happened since 2020. It’s essentially an ‘If this, then that … game’ and everyone is involved,” said Jon Sluis, CPA and owner of Intrust CPA in Traverse City, Michigan.
He joins us on the air today to explain exactly what he means by this statement. He will also discuss the most common IRS “red flags,” which include: virtual currency, child tax credit among divorced couples, and understanding ratios for business expenses. Those who get the most attention are either making more than $1 million or less than $40,000 a year.
Lastly, Sluis will discuss how getting audited by the IRS isn’t necessarily a “bad” thing.
Most financial conversations happen quietly. We don’t typically bring up how much we have saved in our IRA at the summer BBQ with friends and family. Nor do we give away investing ideas that aren’t widely known. However, we do feel comfortable asking for a referral when it’s time to hire an advisor. How do you know if someone is a good fit for you? Can you trust what they know?
During today’s show, we will give you a framework of questions to ask so that your search doesn’t cause unnecessary anxiety. Part of the search is also understanding whether you need an advisor!
It’s been difficult to hold back our personal opinions on events like the current economic crisis, the war in Ukraine, and how they affect all of us. But as advisors, it is crucial that we remain as objective as possible. Even when the world around us is seemingly unstable and changing minute by minute, we must maintain our composure. Our job is to keep our heads and stay rational. Besides understanding numbers, Staying Steady is our superpower. Luckily, we have decades of experience to give us perspective. The United States is in a unique position as we face the current inflation crisis, internal division of citizens, and complete misalignment with other world powers. The question then becomes, “How will we handle it?”
In the past we have been innovative and resourceful. Our communities have been generous and hospitable. Let’s hope the trend continues.
Our show today is somewhat of a wake-up call (if you needed it). Planning for the future has always been a mysterious journey, but the decades ahead will force us to self-manage in ways we have yet to experience.
There has been a worldwide increase in divorce rates since the pandemic began. Increased time together, social distancing from community, and global economic and health stress have put added pressure on relationships that may have already been struggling.
This is not a topic we enjoy covering, but it’s reality and we want to help.
If you or someone you know is going through a divorce, it’s important to understand that the financial assets of a couple, including their retirement assets, are often split. Unfortunately, if mistakes are made during this process, it can lead to one or both spouses paying unnecessary taxes and penalties, making their divorce even more stressful. From properly splitting retirement accounts to naming new beneficiaries, there are crucial steps that must be taken to ensure retirement assets are managed in the best way possible during a divorce.
Tune in and take control. The long-term effects of the pandemic are beginning to really set in for a lot of us.
It’s been more than 30 years since Dennis became a financial advisor. Prout Financial Design started with just a few class offerings, one staff member and very modest office space. It’s been an incredibly rewarding career … one that he doesn’t plan on leaving anytime soon. While most of his planning focus is spent on positive, profitable outcomes for his clients, Dennis must also have candid, matter-of-fact conversations with them and their families about facing diminishing capacity. It never seems to happen all at once, but over time the family starts to notice the signs of declining cognition – repeated conversations, missed or forgotten details, and various other memory impairments.
Today’s show is for anyone who is facing the same awakening and needs to know the proper steps to move forward. We all want the best for our loved ones, which includes assembling the proper team – and family – of support.
In 2021, an average of 65 million Americans received a monthly Social Security payment totaling more than $1 trillion in benefits. Nearly nine out of 10 people aged 65 and older received a Social Security benefit as of December 31, 2020. And Social Security accounts for nearly 30% of the income for elderly citizens. (source: ssa.gov)
Can you say, “Wow!”?
We have Bob Simpson from the Social Security office with us LIVE today for the entire hour. This is always a treat! We will answer as many of your calls as possible while updating you with the most current information. If you want to learn more before the show, click here.
First comes love … then comes the beneficiary updates! Naming the beneficiaries of your retirement assets may seem like an obvious task to complete as you plan, but it is often also one of the most overlooked. Failing to properly update your beneficiary forms can compromise the legacy you worked so hard to build.
To help ensure your assets are handled properly after your death, click here to download a “Beneficiary Form Checklist.” You can follow along on the show today, or simply call our office at 231-947-3992 for guidance from our advisors.
We talk about IRAs a lot. Like, a lot, a lot. Every week in fact! And as tax season is quickly approaching, those of you who are proficient savers may be wondering what the rules and deadlines are. Thankfully, our trusted advisor on this topic, Ed Slott, himself has provided an extensive list for us to cover. We will go over deadlines, contribution limits, compensation for IRA eligibility, Roth IRA contribution rules and IRA trusts.
And if that’s not enough … we are going to talk about the hottest topic out there … GOLD! In the age of inflation, many of our clients have inquired about investing their IRAs in gold. Yes, it can be held in an IRA, but it MUST be done properly.
When it comes time to set goals, people tend to focus on what they need to improve vs. what they are already good at. Today, we will elevate what’s working in your life to achieve what’s next. But first, one must cut the noise. This skill is something athlete Cooper Kupp has achieved. His performance in 2021 was one of the greatest statistical receiving seasons in NFL history, and it wasn’t by accident. We will dig deeper into his story and the stories of our clients who we get to see every day.
Financial success isn’t just about the money, it’s about how to design your life to achieve it. Today, Dennis will discuss the impact of quieting yourself to determine who you are and where you want to go.
Rumors about the stock market being due for a correction appear to be coming true. Last Friday, we saw a swift decline and the “geeks” out there have been glued to their screens ever since. As inflation continues to rise and the stock market falls, we must find middle ground. How do we reckon the change without stimulus checks on the horizon? We can start by asking three things: 1) your risk tolerance; 2) how far you are from retirement; and 3) if you’re already retired, what accounts you should draw from.
These are wild times, and we’re going along for the ride!
What better way to begin the NEW year than with a NEW interview with Ed Slott on NEW Retirement Radio! We are excited to have him answer a few burning questions of ours, and hope that you call in with yours. Our discussion will revolve around how to leverage your retirement savings considering the new tax tables, Roth conversions, HSAs and so much more!
The last couple of years have motivated us to look closely at our personal health, finances and estate planning. What happens if we need more help should the worst happen? Who would act on your behalf if your partner can’t? Should it be one of your children? There are several different types of POAs (Powers of Attorney) to discuss – conventional, durable, springing and medical.
Lucky for you (and us) we have Cortney Danbrook LIVE with us today. She started her career in wealth management and crossed over into the legal world. Her combined experiences give a unique perspective that offers families a chance to approach estate and wealth succession planning, family cottage preservation and legacy asset planning holistically.
Don’t leave your family guessing … leave them with a plan.
It turns out that retirement isn’t as easy as “you retire one day and have a check in the mail the next.” Those days (if they ever existed) are long gone. Today, retiring requires thoughtful planning and consideration … things like when to claim Social Security, draw from the 401(k), take out a pension and, lest we forget, tapping in to the good ol’ IRA! And that’s just the beginning, which is why we love to talk about retirement income strategies on our show. To get the most out of your money, you must consider the best time to take money from different accounts for longevity and tax purposes.
This is a FUN show where we will present lots of options. Tune in and take control. Retirement could be right around the corner … if you plan it right!
Typically, it’s not the big things in life that we fail to plan for, but it’s the little things that get looked over. We have a natural and understandable apprehension to dying, which makes us hesitant to properly plan for our own death. We get it. However, there can be a major consequences if you fail to plan. Mr. Rogers said it best, “Anything that's human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable.”
Today, Dennis is going to talk about how assets transfer at death, the importance of naming a beneficiary and how to do tax planning for your portfolio.
’Tis the season for taking your Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) for the year! That’s right, if you’re over 72 years old, you’ll need to take money out of your tax-deferred retirement accounts. If you don’t, there is a hefty penalty – you will be charged 50% of the amount you were supposed to withdraw. You might ask, “What if I don’t need the money?” In which case we would say, “Have you ever considered making a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) to a non-profit of your choice?” This can be given directly from your IRA, satisfying your RMD, and is excluded from taxable income.
We don’t get to talk about GOOD NEWS very often, but this is definitely a silver lining in retirement planning. Tune in today with guest CPA, Jon Sluis as he talks about this and many other ways to give this season!
Do you need to withdraw money from your retirement accounts prior to age 59½? If so, there will be a penalty for doing so. But keep in mind that there are exceptions to every rule. In this case, they are referred to as “10% Early Distribution Penalty Exceptions.” Ed Slott’s recent workshop dedicated 38 pages of material to cover these rules! What does that tell you?
Age matters.
Join us today as we share multiple examples of how important it is to understand the rules and use the exceptions wisely. Tune in and take control!
The COVID-19 death rate has reached 5 million globally, supply chains are sluggish (at best), oil prices are soaring and inflation is at an all-time high since the early ’80s. Congress is currently targeting IRAs in their new proposals – especially Roth IRAs. Investors are beginning to ask more seriously, “Looking at the year ahead, should I worry?”
Maybe.
What we CAN DO is look at the facts, our personal finances and adjust accordingly. Over the last two years, nothing has been predictable. We believe that the opposite of anxiety is action.
Occasionally, we’ll get Bob Simpson from the Social Security Office to join us LIVE!It’s a real treat to hear directly from the man who has worked over 30 years doing what he loves … helping people make the most of their Social Security benefits.There is never a dull moment with Bob on the mic! We will be talking about six major Social Security changes in 2022, year-end planning and answering all our listeners’ questions.
Go beyond getting advice from friends, hear directly from the source today.
Meet our friend, Vaughn Housepian. He’s an unlikely retirement story. Vaugh spent the majority of his 20s bouncing from job to job hoping to land something permanent, only to find himself starting over again and again. It wasn’t until a member of his church suggested that he take a temp job at GM to help cover the bills that things started to find traction. The temp job turned into a successful 30-year career as an engineer at GM where he became known as the “numbers guy.” Upon retirement, he and his wife Sue decided to work together … at Disney!
Tune in and hear the rest of their story today. You’ll be surprised and challenged to stay the course when the going gets tough!
Last week, it was Year-End Checklist time … this week it’s Tax To-Do’s with guest CPA, Jon Sluis, of Intrust CPA. Jon is a regular on our program who offers unique insights for our listeners. Not only will he remind us of what we should be looking at right now, he will weigh in on a few government tax proposals we may need to consider. It’s also a good time to talk about the cost of converting to a Roth IRA and determining if that is the right choice for you.
As always, this will be a fast-paced, action-packed program. Be ready to take some notes and don’t forget to call in LIVE with your questions.
It may seem like it’s TOO SOON to start your year-end checklist but .... we have tax deadlines, charitable contributions and conversion deadlines too! Just when you thought retirement planning was boring, the season changes.
It’s also a great time to consider doing what you’ve thought about doing but haven’t. It’s time to consolidate your retirement accounts for simplicity and access.
With only three months left in the year, why not get ahead of the New Year and plan now!
In this Real Retirement Story, I (Shea) interview my good friend, Barb Mahan, about losing her daughter, Abby, to a decade-long battle with cancer. The harsh and unfair reality of parents grieving the loss of an adult child is a topic I have hesitated to share knowing how deeply personal and traumatizing it is. However, Barb is special and Abby was very special. Their story is unique and offers so much hope alongside the suffering. To use Barb’s words, “Time doesn’t heal the wound, but it leaves a scar, and I’m happy for the scar that reminds me of Abby.”
Tune in today to hear the real, raw reality of how Barb and her husband, Dave, rearranged their lives and retirement plans after Abby was gone.
At the end of the interview, I was lucky enough to have Abby’s husband, Brian Gartland, read the eulogy he read at her funeral. As a gifted writer, he has documented their story in his book, On a Blue Moon.
In 2020, 3.2 million Americans retired, which is a 56% increase over the average 2.05 million Americans who retired between 2012 and 2019 (source: Pew Research Center). This is a staggering stat! What most folks forget to consider in their retirement plan is healthcare. Believe it or not, there are professionals who specialize in this, and we know who they are!
Join Laverna Witkop and Dawn McConnell from Ford Insurance Agency who are LIVE with us today. They will talk about the annual election period (AEP) for Medicare Advantage plan (October 15 through December 7). It’s time to review and pay attention to changes. This also might be a good time to jump in! Open enrollment for individual health insurance plans is from November 1 to December 15, with a possible extension.
We get a lot of questions about trusts. Who should get one? Who shouldn’t? What are the long-term ramifications? Is it a bad idea to name a trust as the beneficiary of an IRA?
Excellent questions!
Today, we are going to discuss, specifically, naming a trust as the beneficiary of an IRA. This can be quite overwhelming for the trustee if they are not experienced. According to Ed Slott, “Saddling an inexperienced trustee with such a daunting task can lead to egregious mistakes – as a recent IRA private letter ruling states.”
We’ll cover the ins and outs of these mistakes along with an “inflation check-in” as we enter into an upcycle that is not transitory in nature. It will be led by these long-term factors: wages, rents and energy prices.
Twenty years later and we can all remember the exact moment the attacks on 9/11 happened. I (Shea) was standing at the Folgarelli’s deli counter watching the events unfold on their TV. I assumed at first that I was watching a movie, but sadly I soon realized it was a live news broadcast. The first building was attacked and, in horror, all of us there watched as the second building was taken down. My cell phone rang, and I was told to go home immediately – the board meeting lunch I was scheduled to attend had been canceled.
Today, we will commemorate this day and honor those whose lives were lost. It’s also a time to reflect on how this act of terrorism cost us emotionally and financially. The American spirit should be remembered as resilient even as we face this current pandemic.
Perhaps one of the best and most rewarding conversation topics we can have with clients is, “You should spend more.” This isn’t the advice they were expecting. In fact, for most clients, it’s a real mind shift to go from saving, saving, saving to spending! But it’s truly a rush!
Today, we’re going to call out the real fears people have with spending, along with reasons why you should spend more (we promise … there are some!). In Yahoo! News, Michael Finke, a professor of retirement at the American College of Financial Services, says research he conducted found that 80% of retirees are uncomfortable watching their nest egg get smaller. “To an economist, that’s a mystery,” he said. “Why did you save in the first place?”
As the economy rebounds, the question remains, “What about inflation?” According to Joel Naroff, Chief Economist at Naroff Economics, LLC, “We are transitioning to a higher period of inflation and interest rates than we’ve had over the last 20 years.” This transition is projected to last longer than expected with hiring challenges, supply-chain bottlenecks, and other disruptions caused by the pandemic. In fact, we could see about 2% in the coming months as the CPI (consumer price index) jumped 5% in May.
What do we do if inflation continues to go up and up?
That’s the question for Dennis Prout and Heidi Thompson today. Join us LIVE as we navigate the ever-changing economy – the first step in any recovery!
What better way to celebrate our new and improved studio than to have familiar guests join us! The Bill Marsh Brothers (Jamie, Bill Jr. and Mike) are LIVE and in person with us today. They are going to share some of the most difficult times they have faced in the last year-and-a-half, along with surprising victories. Their family-owned automobile business has been forced to change as people stayed home, drove less, and delayed making large purchases at the beginning of the pandemic (stats here). New vehicle production came to a halt and the demand for used cars began to skyrocket. It’s been a wild ride … and the year isn’t even over!
Join all of us in the studio today as we inspire you to keep pushing forward despite the unknown. There’s no going back to how it was before COVID-19, but that might be a good thing!
What makes someone more comfortable in retirement? Studies show four things: guaranteed income, little debt, a clear spend-down strategy and employer-provided assistance. All of this takes a little planning over time with trusted advisors. Lucky you, because we have two in the NEW studio today! Dennis and Heidi will guide you through the planning process and how to face money mindsets that could be holding you back. Dennis will speak specifically on IRA planning for special needs beneficiaries.
Teamwork makes the dream work, and we are here for it!
Perhaps we’ve been overemphasizing COVID-19 stats, but it’s difficult to look at the numbers without becoming concerned. So much has shifted over the last year and a half, and most of it is out of our control. Our intention is to hold out hope for you. We want you to feel empowered and adapt as needed.
That being said, today we are going to focus on the positive side of the pandemic. The downtime allowed for a lot of reflection and bought some folks time to make necessary changes. We are going to share what those are and give you a few tips for transition. As we all know, the only constant is change!
“It’s not the economy that’s going to determine your next six years, it’s your philosophy” said the late Jim Rohn, entrepreneur author and speaker. His words outlive him and are just as relevant today as they were decades ago. When it comes to investing – the act of putting our dollars where our values lie, is about philosophy. Before you can be disciplined about the small things, you must first determine what you believe to be true and in the power of your own action-making abilities.
Join Dennis today as he applies these principles to the relationship we have with money and the magic of compound interest! After all, life only asks one thing of us … to make measurable progress in a reasonable amount of time!
During the last year and a half, many charities that have relied on fundraising events and in-person relationship building have suffered. The financial insecurity many individuals faced also caused them to withdraw their monthly donations. Meanwhile, according to an article in The Wall Street Journal, “The coronavirus has spurred roughly $13 billion in donations to relief funds and for medical and vaccine research – more than all donations to 12 other big disasters combined, including the 9/11 attacks, the 2008 financial crisis, and hurricanes Harvey and Sandy, according to an analysis by Candid, which tracks and analyzes global philanthropy.”
If you want to make charity a part of your financial plan, don’t wait until the holidays, start the process now. There are ways to leverage your portfolio to help the organizations you care about while also benefiting your tax strategies.
I’m not sure about you, but it seems nothing short of surreal to be shopping in stores without a mask and shield. Eating out at a restaurant is thrilling. Gathering with family, giving hugs freely and meeting strangers is almost euphoric. While the pandemic is mostly in the rear window, the effects of it are not.
Today, Shea and Heidi will be taking over the show one Shea Stat at a time to highlight the good, the bad and neutral numbers of COVID-19, which is quite fitting considering that women have been impacted by the pandemic more than men. According to McKinsey, 80% of the Americans who have stepped away from the workforce to take on the duties of childcare, education, shopping, cooking and cleaning during the nationwide shutdown were women.
Over the last several weeks, we’ve discussed the blind spots that investors can develop. The psychology of investingrefers to these blind spots as “cognitive bias,” where our brains are hard-wired to take shortcuts, oversimplify complex concepts or be overconfident in our decision-making processes. The Magellan Group has outlined 10 of those biases, and on our show today we will give examples as we’ve experienced them either with clients or on a global scale.
While it’s important to have help with the numbers, it’s also very important to get perspective on the head game behind them. In fact, that’s why people tend to hire advisors … hint … hint!
Join us today as we dive deeper into the topic along with a brush-up lesson on income strategies in retirement. That in and of itself is a trip!
I (Dennis) was talking to my daughter about her investing options as she and her husband are gaining traction in their careers and financial choices. It’s a very exciting thing to witness, especially as a father who happens to be an investment advisor too! Ironically, as she started to verbally process their options, she also confessed to not knowing as much as she “should.” It triggered a conversation that led me to the topic of today’s show, because even something as simple as a 401(k) plan can feel foreign.
Today, Shea will be asking the tough questions like, “Is a 401(k) worth it? What about the fees? What if I need the money for emergencies? What about taxes in retirement? Does the employer really ‘match’ my money?”
This will be a lively conversation to help clear up any confusion about 401(k)s so that you can make an informed decision! After all, this investing stuff is supposed to be FUN!
Last week, we started the conversation around investor “blind spots,” or careless mistakes. One can argue that the premise of our entire show is about blind spots! Touché! This week, we will continue the discussion and delve more deeply into one area in particular: Changes in the market as you near retirement. The question is, “Can you handle it?” Or, better yet, “How should you handle it?”
The prevailing concern over a potential market correction and rising inflation lingers in investors’ minds. It’s understandable and probably unavoidable … but the good news is that it’s manageable!
I (Shea) love to drive. It started with video games then led to learning on two-tracks until I took my drivers’ training courses. My instructor thought I was overly confident behind the wheel, but it quickly became my “thing” and, to this day, I am known as “The Driver” among family and friends. Over the years, however, as I have become more comfortable with driving, I’ve also realized that it’s easier to make careless mistakes. I refer to them as “blind spots.”
The same goes with investing. The longer you’ve been at it, and the more familiar you are with it – the more blind spots you develop. Our internal benchmark for success isn’t always the best predictor and, as a result, our long-term gains may diminish. In other words, we may not get to where we intended to go without a different or extra perspective. Today, Dennis and Heidi are hopping into the driver’s seat to show you a few things you might have missed on your investment journey.
Lawmakers have enacted six major bills, costing about $5.3 trillion, to help manage the COVID-19 pandemic and mitigate the economic burden on families and businesses. Most of us have succumbed to an inevitable tax rate increase. But that’s not the scary part. What’s more concerning is our acceptance of it. Our society is the proverbial “frog in boiling water” as we slowly but surely lose control over how the government allocates money. Guess who is suffering the most? It’s the folks you’d least expect … the savers! And they have a big money problem that can be summed up in two words – CAPTIAL GAINS.
Whether you are trying to sell your business, a family farm or stocks, the taxes on capital gains could be significant. Tune in today to listen to Dennis and guest CPA Jon Sluis as they talk about big money problems and what to do about them.
Whether you want to retire or are being forced to retire, the real question is, “How do you make it happen?” This is our favorite question! Technically, you can start collecting Social Security at age 62, but should you? Between your company plan, real estate investments, IRAs and stocks, and everything in between, you might have forgotten about a few things. We are here to give you the full list!
Join Dennis and Heidi today as they review the Forbes “Top 10 Retirement Tips for 2021.”
It takes a lot of discipline and motivation to be self-employed. It’s not for the faint of heart. Some of you knew your entire life you’d be “on your own,” while many of you fell into it like one finds a pothole in spring. JUST KIDDING! But seriously, it might have been a jolting move.
And whether you’re just beginning or have been at it for decades, it never gets easier to save.
“Locking up money” when living with an unpredictable income is difficult, to say the least.
But, as you know, YOU MUST keep saving for your retirement!
Join Dennis and Heidi today as they give you options and strategies to save. They’ll also discuss ways to help you get into the habit of paying your future first.
If we’ve said it once, we’ve said it 100 times … your retirement is your responsibility. Long gone are the days of simple planning where one could count on their pension, Social Security and savings to fund their “golden years.” Most folks who are counting on Social Security to save them will be sorely disappointed, as it is meant to supplement your retirement, not fund it.
By 2035, the number of Americans 65 and older will increase from approximately 56 million today to more than 78 million. There are currently 2.8 workers for each Social Security beneficiary. By 2035, that number will decrease to 2.3 covered workers.
There is no time to “hope” it all works out. Now is the time to plan. Thankfully, the Social Security Administration is taking extra measures to teach you how to take advantage of your benefits.
So, you want to be a millionaire? According to Kiplinger, in order to be considered one, you’ll need investable assets of $1 million or more, excluding the value of real estate, employer-sponsored retirement plans and business partnerships. Michigan ranks 26th in the U.S. for concentration of millionaires at 5.97%. Turns out, we are actually well-stocked with billionaires!
So, what does it take to climb the money ladder? It’s more about habits than income. Today, Heidi and Dennis will share the 19 Things Rich People Rarely Do. They will also unpack some money mindsets that keep people stuck.
Did you know that 26% of taxpayers itemize charitable deductions on their tax returns? And yet, most advisors don’t ask their clients if they want to include it in their financial planning. How unfortunate! There are many financial benefits for giving, but mostly … it’s good for the heart. MacKenzie Scott (ex-wife of Jeff Bezos) donated nearly $6 billion to about 500 nonprofits last year! Most of us aren’t at that level of giving, but we can have the same intention and plan just as carefully.
Today, Dennis and Heidi will discuss the 8 Types of Charitable Giving and share personal stories of how giving has affected them personally.
Since “Tax Day” has been delayed (for most of us), what other certainty of life should we talk about? Death, of course! For obvious reasons, it’s a reality none of us wants to face. However, it’s also very important to discuss this topic as part of your financial planning process. You don’t want to leave your family guessing … you want to leave them with a plan!
Today, Dennis and Heidi will discuss how assets transfer at death, the importance of naming beneficiaries and tax strategies for your portfolio.
Most of the time when I (Shea) tell folks that I work in retirement planning, they nod and say something to the effect of, “Sounds kinda boring!” Honestly, at first, I too thought it would be boring … but I was wrong. There’s not a day that goes by where a client can’t be helped in some way. Not only are people’s lives complex, but their accounts are too. The rules and regulations have changed quite a bit over the last five years, and there are five big changes to be aware of if you’re thinking of retirement soon.
The past year has made it difficult to find the silver linings on the darkest of days. The headlines have been so ominous that, according to most of our clients, they just can’t watch the news anymore. We get it. So here’s some good news: According to Fidelity, retirement savings accounts reached record high levels in 2020. Money market funds in the United States, including retail and institutional funds, both taxable and tax-free, have increased $615 billion (to $4.39 trillion) over the last 12 months through March 12, 2021, an average increase of $12 billion per week (Source: Investment Company Institute).
If this pandemic has done anything, it’s woken us up to pay attention and get serious about where our money is going. According to InvestmentNews, 82% of Americans say COVID-19 affected their retirement plans. We are going to dig into that stat and offer prudent advice as you plan. For better or for worse, here we are and there’s no time like the present to make a plan.
What does excess money in the economy and the potential rise in interest rates say about future inflation? We thought you’d never ask!
In fact, there are a lot of questions we thought you’d never ask, because since 2020, things have gotten a bit complicated as the Fed continually attempts to “balance the economy.” We’ll do our best to answer those questions. Our hope is to help put the pieces together for you today so that you can make educated decisions about your current financial situation and retirement.
I (Shea) will never forget the thrill of opening my first bank account with my dad. He also created a chores and budget spreadsheet. I was ready to become an adult at the ripe old age of eight! The taste of independence was thrilling until I reached my early 20s and money went to things like … toilet paper. What a letdown!
Teaching kids about money can be exciting, especially when they are able to learn about investing. Today, we are going to teach you how to talk to kids (and grandkids) about money, and let you know about a few exciting options like the custodian Roth IRA account!
Are you considering an IRA rollover? Whether you’ve recently left your employer or simply prefer the options an IRA has to offer, a rollover may be the right move for you. Keep in mind, however, that there are also several common pitfalls you can encounter by improperly executing a rollover.
Whether you’re a spouse who has inherited an IRA or you’re the retirement account owner, there are a number of rules you must know in order to avoid costly penalties rolling over your investments.
Today, Dennis and Heidi will share the most common rollover mistakes and other possibilities, as well as discuss what to do with your tax refund this year. Have you considered depositing it into your IRA?
Dennis Prout and Heidi Thompson discuss the importance of naming successor beneficiaries. In this episode they also help us understand the Roth IRA Rules.
Perhaps one of the greatest reasons to hire a CPA to file your taxes and help monitor your business is to protect yourself against what you don’t know. Your job is to be excellent in your line of work, and theirs is to watch out for you. When we came across an article in Kiplinger called “22 IRS Audit Red Flags,” we immediately realized that local CPA, Jon Sluis, should join the conversation. After all, isn’t the real question, “Can I get audited?”
Join Dennis and Jon today as they dig deep into the world of taxes and retirement planning. The two are inseparable.
Folks often ask us, “When is the best time to get serious about retirement?” The answer is usually,“Now.” Realistically, most people start getting serious about retirement about 10 years out. They start to look at their 401(k) at work, their savings, debts and, if they haven’t already, they open an IRA or consider converting to a Roth IRA. We found a few fun articles, “11 Moves to Make Before Retirement” and “10 Things You Spend Less On in Retirement.”
The show today will be the before and after retirement! Dennis and Heidi will tag team the topics and give you something to think about. After all, now is always a good time!
So you want to rollover your unwanted RMD (required minimum distribution) into an IRA? Not so fast! It’s not 2020 anymore (thank God!) when no one had to take an RMD, and that ONE-TIME exception allowed by the CARES Act no longer applies. The rules for 2021 say that you cannot, we repeat, CANNOT roll over your RMD into an IRA or any other retirement account. As Ed Slott would say, “How money moves matters!”
This year, you must take your RMD and follow the rules or the consequences will be expensive. Join Dennis and Heidi this week as they refresh your RMD memory. Also, this is a good week to have our own Shelley Osborne live to give you a few tips on understanding tax forms and filing taxes this year. Her advice … “Pay attention to the form changes!”
We think it’s fair to say that the main goal in retirement is to do it once. No one dreams of going back to work once you have punched the proverbial time clock for the last time. According to InvestmentNews and a study done by Clever Real Estate, the pandemic has doubled retiree debt partly because of the need for credit. Many retirees are struggling to live the pre-retirement lifestyle and are going into debt to cover basic expenses. This begs the question, “How much should one save for retirement?”
We’re so glad you asked! Today, Dennis and Heidi are going to share what the average retirement savings per age should be vs. what the national average is. This will help you benchmark your situation and adjust as you approach the retirement time clock!
The last time Ed Slott, “America’s IRA Expert,” joined us on the air, we were waiting on pins and needles to see who the next U.S. President would be. Well now that we know, we also know a few more things about the coming year … like that you must take your RMD (required minimum distribution) and that tax rates might be changing. Ed has a few surprises to share as well.
The anxiety folks are feeling hasn’t disappeared, but it has shifted to, “What now?” We’re hoping to give you some measure of control from Ed’s perspective.
The American College New York Life Center for Retirement Income released a QUIZ. last year to test your retirement knowledge. It might be worth your time to take it and then tune in to our show. Why? Because retirement is now 100% your responsibility. Gone are the days of simple retirement planning, which included a pension, Social Security and savings. Today, we are left to our own resources and knowledge to create a plan. Plus, there are a lot of factors to consider outside of different savings vehicles. For example, when surveyed, young Baby Boomers changed jobs 11.7 times in their career. Add to this longevity and the responsibility of caring for elderly parents and adult children, and there’s a lot more to consider when planning where the money needs to go.
We don’t want to … but we must look back on 2020. Why? Because it was a BIG year for IRA rulings and Social Security. As much as we’d like to think that you’ve been listening, we want to repeat ourselves once again. Moving forward into the New Year will require you to check your lists twice. Dennis will cover the IRA rulings and Heidi will review the Social Security list.
Tune in today and grab your pen and a pad of paper. There will be a lot to remember.
If you haven’t heard already, the second stimulus passed, and it has quite a few implications for business owners. Jon Sluis shares details of the package in this video, and we will discuss it LIVE on the air today. SPOILER ALERT: Forgiveness of the PPP loan could possibly save business owners 30% and meals are 100% deductible in 2021. Those are two great surprises!
Dennis will also weigh in on economists’ projections for the New Year, which include rumors of inflation based on historical trends.
This week I continue my “Real Retirement Stories” series by interviewing my friend Paul. He began his career at GM the week after graduating high school. He attended what is now called Kettering University, a GM co-op program that was highly competitive. Less than half of his class made it through. As an engineer, he started in operations, moved to assembly, and then landed his dream job with the team that built the Corvette. He loved every minute of his 40-year career and felt thankful to have found it. My uncle Burt used to say, “If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life.”Paul agrees!
Paul and I both love cars and finding wisdom in the unexpected places. Tune in to hear how his career, view of money and retirement evolved as life played out in unexpected ways.
It’s always good to end on a good note, and Paul is someone that did just that!
We hope this Christmas season finds you tucked into your home with family nearby as you all huddle by the radio. Today’s show is unlike any we have done before. Dennis will read a short Christmas story by O. Henry called, “The Gift of the Magi,” which was published in 1905. In addition to the story, you’ll also hear many of Dennis’ favorite Christmas songs sprinkled between segments.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from all of us at Prout Financial Design. When we count our blessings, you definitely top the list!
In the age of DIY, should you manage your own portfolio? That’s a great question! And we’d like to weigh in. According to the financial experts at The Balance, one of the world’s largest investment companies, Vanguard, has been examining this question for 15 years. Based on research, analysis and testing, Vanguard has concluded that there is, in fact, a quantifiable increase in return from working with a financial advisor. Vanguard calls this advantage the “Advisor’s Alpha.” When certain best practices are followed, the result can be an Alpha in the 3 percent per year range. Read more about this topic HERE.
Beyond the math, there are plenty more reasons to get an advisor on your team. On today’s show, Dennis and Heidi will give you a few good ones when considering an advisor in 2021.
Not sure about you, but we’re getting a little excited thinking about 2020 coming to an end. When we joked about 20/20 vision and getting more clarity – we never imagined a pandemic as the impetus to get us there. For a lot of you, the disruption has caused you to reevaluate your careers, goals and travel plans. We no longer take for granted our health, seeing family on a regular basis or even having enough toilet paper.
Join us today for the checklist to end all checklists! We will cover the changes in 2020, milestone ages, life events and, of course, how to talk to your beneficiaries about your plans.
Bring your list. Check it twice. This year was naughty. Not nice.
My hope is that the real retirement stories we’ve been featuring this fall have inspired you to consider what retirement could look like for you. It’s one thing to imagine a life after work and it’s another to realize that dream. Speaking of which, have you taken the time to dream? Most pre-retirees who meet with us have only a vague vision of what they will do ... not because they lack imagination but, simply, because life itself has been so demanding. We get it.
Perhaps you can take time today and start by joining Heidi and Dennis as they share some of the realities (both good and bad) of retirement, including doubling your budget for things like … BOOKS!
There are two kinds of people in this world: dreamers and doers. Then, there are those who do BOTH! Meet our guest, Sally Manke. During her career as a teacher, she managed to raise two children while also running a seasonal hotel in Manistee with her husband. It wasn’t until retirement that she found her dream job as a fiber artist.
As an artist, Sally’s work has been featured at juried quilt shows throughout the U.S., including the American Quilter’s Society events and International Quilt Festival. Her innumerable awards include a blue ribbon at QuiltWeek in Paducah, Kentucky – ostensibly the Red Carpet of quilt guild shows – and a Red Hot Best nod as Northern Michigan’s Best Visual Artist in 2016. She enjoys sharing her expertise through trunk shows, classes, and workshops at quilt shops and guilds.
President-elect Joe Biden has proposed a tax plan that will increase taxes on corporations and the wealthy with no increase for individuals earning less than $400K annually. This is just one of several key takeaways that you can read about here, or you can join our special guest, CPA Jon Sluis, LIVE today to learn more. He’s also going to help dispel some of the rumors swirling around in the media and give prudent tax guidance as we head into 2021. And with only six weeks until the end of the year, there are still things you can do for own tax planning.
There’s never a dull moment when we have Jon on the air! Tune in and get the details. In fact, you might want to take some notes.
Ed Slott might have summarized it best when he said,“Look, there will be a president for the next four years and another one after that. Everything changes. You must focus on your own plan.”We couldn’t agree more! But we all know it’s easier said than done. What happens on a large scale affects us. And it’s not realistic to ignore the bigger picture even if we don’t have control over it. However, it is easier to execute on our own plans.
Today, Dennis and Heidi will give you practical tips on how to take advantage of the good things. There will always be a reason to be negative. Stay positive by managing your own plan.
I (Shea) have a very vivid memory as a child riding around in my grandfather’s vintage truck and snacking on prunes. He said they were “dessert.” My grandfather did push-ups every morning, took his supplements and didn’t eat much sugar. He also saved his pennies. I wonder what he would think about today’s health care stat:
According to Fidelity research, the cost for health care post-age 65 is $295,000 per couple, excluding long-term care.
Health care is one of the largest expenses that people face in retirement. But don’t despair because there are ways to strategize and fill in the gaps.
Today we have guest expert, Laverna Witkop, from Ford Insurance. She specializes in working with retirees who are navigating the complex world of health insurance. Join us!
If 2020 were a candy bar, it would be a baker’s chocolate-covered sour patch with an endless sucker for the center (that’s our opinion anyways). Is it a trick or is it a treat? Well, maybe both! Our guest and America’s IRA expert, Ed Slott, has a few things to say about the tricks and treats of 2020. He’ll discuss the potential disadvantages and possibilities of the SECURE Act and CARES Act. And we’ll also get his take on the best strategic moves for the remainder of the year, how to plan for taxes and whether or not you should convert to a Roth IRA.
Today’s show will be a mixed bag.
There is one thing we can all agree on: 2020 isn’t the year we hoped it would be. We also realize that this year’s pandemic has forced many of you to revisit your estate planning, which might not have been at the top of your New Year’s Resolution list. A hot topic regarding estate planning and retirement saving is life insurance vs. Roth IRAs.
Both life insurance and Roth IRAs have something in common: they are wealth transfer tools that help facilitate an efficient transfer of assets from one generation to the next and can provide a tax-free legacy. And yet, they are very different because they play by different rules.
Today, Dennis and Heidi will give you three important differences between the two along with tips on how to investigate both!
A lot can change in a year (insert sarcastic laugh). Maybe the job you thought would never end has been eliminated. Or perhaps you’re retiring earlier than expected. Or maybe this year has brought a lot of clarity and you’ve decided to change directions.
If you have a 401(k) company plan, you have options for the distribution of it. In fact, you have SIX options! How exciting is that? Today, Dennis and Heidi will go through the six options with you along with tips on how to invest if you’re over 70 and working.
It’s hard to believe it’s already October! This time of year is not only breathtakingly beautiful up here in northern Michigan, it’s also a good time to slow down and review important financial details. On a national level, considering that both the Democrats and Republicans have spent a lot of money to stimulate the economy, it’s important to understand why the U.S. deficit matters as well as howthis spending will eventually affect you.
We’ll also discuss the multiple investment deadlines you need to be aware of, cover the Coronavirus-related distributions from the federal government, and review how the CARES Act has affected your investing strategies (like waiving required minimum distributions deadlines).
Bob Simpson, District Manager of the Traverse City Social Security Administrative office, wants to be clear: “There are NO secrets when it comes to Social Security despite what the headlines say.” After 35 years on the job, one would think he’d would know a thing or two about that. On today’s show, Bob will join Heidi and Shea to talk about how to schedule an appointment with one his office’s 17 representatives who are working remotely. He will also give you the ins and outs of some more complex issues related to collecting Social Security and how to avoid scams.
Remember, the Social Security office is there to provide you with options, not give you advice. After you’ve collected the facts, consider meeting with your financial advisor and CPA to decide on your income strategies in retirement.
Doug Godbe worked for himself as an estate planning attorney in California. He began the retirement planning process at the age of 30, always running the numbers and calculating the outcome. It wasn’t until his late 50’s that the deadline became more important. He witnessed his friend (another attorney) decide mid-litigation to put in his two weeks’ notice because he wanted to collect his pension. But for Doug it wasn’t an easy task … he had a business to transfer to his son as well as his wife’s retirement to consider.
I sat down with Doug and he shared his retirement success, fails and surprises. We talked about everything from careers, empty nesting, marriage, health, remodeling houses and taking on professional projects after the fact. Lastly, over the years as he observed and handled the estate plans of his clients, he saw firsthand what made them successful in retirement.
I recently interviewed Doug Godbe for an upcoming show that will air on September 24. Doug is a retired estate planning attorney who started to plan for his own retirement when he was 30. Between spreadsheets and careful calculations, he is still surprised by a few things in retirement and would even admit that he is “failing” in several areas. If the extreme planners are reexamining their plans, what about the rest of us? According to a 2015 study, only one-third of retirees retired when they had intended. This means that 60% of retirees age 55 to 65 left their careers unexpectedly. That’s a lot.
Are you on track? How do you know?
Tune in today as Dennis and Heidi share some of the benchmarks for a healthy review of your plan.
Did you know … if you’re a business owner and offer your employees a 401(k) plan, you also have a fiduciary responsibility to those employees. Add that to your growing list of responsibilities in a year of disruption, not including the rules and regulations to 401(k) plans stipulated in the SECURE Act, CARES Act and DOL Fiduciary Rulings. Are you up-to-date? If not, we are here to help!
Prout Financial Design has served as the 401(k) fiduciary for many businesses over the years, and we are seeing an urgent need for business owners with this burden. This is why we have partnered with our long-time friend and business associate, Christian Whitehead, from Wealth Advisory Group.
Join us on the show today as we talk to Christian about all of these changes and how our 401(k) audit can help your business get back on track.
Guess what? The market is not the economy. Maybe you’ve read this before as investors are trying to help us make sense of the contrast we’re seeing. So many people have lost their jobs, another shutdown is being threatened and, meanwhile, the stock market has completely rallied since March. Visually, it’s like seeing a dilapidated house with a newly remodeled front porch. It just doesn’t make sense.
Join us today as we discuss why it is important to pay attention to both the market and the economy while keeping our balance down the middle. To put it simply, the economy is what happened yesterday, and the stock market is what is in the future. What are we supposed to do with that?
Now that the dust has (mostly) settled from the almost weekly legislative changes these past few months, today’s guest, CPA Jon Sluis, says, “It’s time to start paying attention and start dealing with the change that happened.” He’s referring to the disconnect between what many are hearing in the media and what they are seeing in their own financial positions.
As a result of the flood of stimulus money injected into the economy, limited businesses went down; the same for individuals. In fact, many businesses and individuals pivoted as a result of all the changes thrown at them. Whether from increased support from clients, creative marketing or quick cost-cutting initiatives, many businesses and individuals are feeling more cash flush than before. While some saw declines in top-line revenue or investment returns, many are actually seeing an increase in bottom-line taxable income – which means there may be a tax liability coming. And when you are cash flush, it’s usually a good indication that you may need to start tax planning now and shift to those discussions.
This show will discuss the repercussions of what happened and how to deal with it now. Tune in and take control! There’s never enough time when we have Jon on the air.
The saying goes, “You have a trust when you don’t trust.” By creating a trust, you are attempting to control assets after your passing to provide legal protection. In some cases, it can protect the assets as they are inherited or to save estate taxes. However …
There have been a lot of changes with the SECURE Act of 2019. Trusts went from being one of the best places to leave your IRA to one of the most questionable. For those with disabled or chronically ill family members, trusts are invaluable. Generally speaking, however, they are not a cure-all when it comes to estate planning … especially with IRAs.
Tune in and find out more about one of the most popular estate planning tools. Ed Slott is direct with this piece of advice, “Stop naming a trust as an IRA beneficiary!”
The news can be negative and seem bias at times no matter which side of the political spectrum you fall on. Its best to listen and collaborate with trusted advisors as you consider the facts and make decisions.
Have you ever wondered if your retirement assets are protected from bankruptcy and lawsuits? Perhaps you’ve never had to consider such a thing. But the way 2020 is going, at this point it feels like anything could happen! In the words of Ed Slott, “In the current environment with so many small businesses on the brink of closing and struggling employees in limbo, increased bankruptcy filings could be around the corner. It is imperative to understand which accounts hold what protections, and how retirement assets are shielded from those anxious to get a piece of the nest egg.”
We’re going LIVE today to talk about it! Also, Heidi has some deadline updates, and we’ll celebrate Social Security’s 85th birthday!
We’ve noticed something over the years … you like Shea Stats! YAY! Honestly, who doesn’t love a good stat once in a while? Which is why we’ve decided to devote this week’s show entirely to Shea Stats and Chats! Dennis will give his immediate feedback on the most pressing information and what it means for you.
Ugh … sorry. This is a depressing headline. I can hear Ron Jolly playing his Debbie Downer sounder right now. The truth is, regardless of how promising the stock market has looked lately, there are some realities that we still must face because of COVID-19. For example, the indestructible Baby Boomers are in one of the highest at-risk age groups for contracting the virus. They are also the ones taking care of aging parents while trying to support adult children and grandchildren. And the workplace is changing at a rapid pace to adhere to social distancing requirements.
So while the country waits with bated breath for the economic recovery, Boomers may not have that luxury. The time to plan is now. Thankfully, Forbes wrote a great article, “8 Ways Coronavirus Will Drastically Alter Boomer Retirements,” to help guide us.
“It’s not about the cars, it’s about the people,” said Bill Marsh Jr., co-owner of Bill Marsh Automotive Group in Traverse City. This deep-rooted value came from their father, Bill Marsh Sr., who bought a poor-performing Buick dealership in 1982 and made it a top-performing dealership within the year. He brought his sons Jamie, Bill Jr. and Mike into the business and eventually sold it to them. What does it take to transition a business within the family? It takes a lot of heart and consideration. The Marsh Brothers will be in the studio today to share their experience.
Why?
Because, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, Baby Boomers own 2.34 million small businesses in the United States, employing more than 25 million people. That’s a lot at stake for those who fail to plan. We want to help you start the conversation now.
Tune in and find out how the wisdom of Bill Marsh Sr. set his three sons up for success.
When I was in college and falling “in love,” my grandfather told me, “Shea, it’s not when you get married, it’s WHO you marry.” Suddenly it occurred to me that I was more concerned about the time line of life goals than I was about the person. My grandfather had acquired something called “wisdom.” I wonder what advice he would give now, 20 years later. My guess is that it would be the same.
What about you? Are you considering tying the knot in your later years? In some ways the decision gets easier because you know yourself, but on the other hand it gets more complicated because of the dynamics of life. When considering a later marriage, you also have to take into account things like Social Security benefits, insurance, multiple mortgages and beneficiaries (to name a few).
Join us today as we discuss both the financial and emotional considerations of tying the knot … or not!
This week we celebrate 244 years of independence from Great Britain. Though we are a young country, our history is full of amazing courage and tragedy. We are learning. This year has taken a few sharp corners with little to no signs of slowing down. It’s difficult to imagine that we can keep our focus on financial independence when the expansion is long gone, and we are in the very beginning stages of recovery … maybe. Despite all this, Prout Financial Design hopes to be a source of education and encouragement in such disorienting times.
Today, we’re going to look at some fascinating stats alongside financial facts to help you stay on track. While we may not have a lot of control over what is happening around us, the truth is, we can still make choices to help us decide today. That’s the beauty of living in a free country.
How many of you took time during quarantine to reexamine your values?
Did being at home make you realize how much you love family and want to be with them more? Or as an essential worker on the front lines, are you ready to call it quits? Perhaps the new normal isn’t how you want to operate as you finish out your career.
Because of COVID-19, career shifts and early retirement are no longer something that’s five years down the road – they’re now! If there is any silver lining, this might be it. Instead of waiting until this all plays out, maybe it’s time to write the ending now.
Our guest, CPA Jon Sluis, will help you understand what the tax implications are now vs. later. You’ll need to bunch some decisions and spread some out. If you’re ready to stop doing what you’ve always done, together we can help you pivot to make the change happen on your terms.
Like the game, “telephone” the SECURE Act of 2019 and the CARES Act of 2020, is all hearsay between the connections! How do we know this? Because the final message is received at our office when clients sit down and say, “I heard that I don’t have to (fill in the blank).”
We just smile and say, “Not exactly.” The rules are changing around familiar terminology and the truth is getting lost. We hear you! Which is why we are taking time today to clear up some common misconceptions about things like when you have to take your RMDs, deadlines for contributing to IRAs and Roth IRAs, retirement relief and so much more!
Tune in today and let us help take the confusion out of the permanent changes of the SECURE Act and the temporary relief from the CARES Act. There are big differences between the two, and we know how to help you.
The numbers are starting to come in. The Federal Reserve Bank is in the process of spending an amount of money equal to nearly 40% of GDP to offset COVID-19’s effect on the U.S. economy. The U.S. Congress will spend an amount that is about 35% of GDP for the same purpose (RSP Inc.). Meanwhile, the stock market has rebounded with such gusto that even the experts are in shock. We are hearing clients ask, “Did I miss it? Did I miss my chance to take advantage of market lows? Where are we heading now? Should I keep investing?”
While we anticipated an eventual recession, we could have never predicted a pandemic and the entire economic shutdown. The behaviors of the market mirror the emotions of people, and it has been erratic. We wholeheartedly believe that you must know yourself first to know how to participate in market volatility. Tune in today and hear the facts so that you can decide when, in fact, you should jump in. Whether or not you missed it? You’ll have to decide.
In December of 2019, the SECURE Act passed leaving many retirees scratching their heads asking,“How, exactly, does this impact me in the end?” Then, by mid-March of 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic hit, creating a national emergency that we are still experiencing today. In other words, COVID-19 is NOT over. This triggered Congress to pass the CARES Act, which provides temporary relief, special distributions, rollovers and provisional loan rules for retirement accounts. What does this mean for you, exactly? It depends.
Today, we are going to cover the common COVID-19 questions from Ed Slott. Shea also has some interesting stats about the cost of healthcare in retirement (yup, it went up), and Heidi wants to tell you what NOT to keep in your safety deposit box at the bank.
Do you know that half of Americans retire earlier than expected? Most of the time the circumstances surrounding retirement are out of their control, yet many non-retirees still believe they will retire on their own terms. Thanks to an Allianz Life study, we have these stats … and they are shocking, right? So, what do you need to know before you go into the unknown? Has the economic shutdown for the last couple of months altered your plan? Is it time to leave, or do you need to extend your stay at the office?
Today, we’ll go through the financial plan checklist to help you decide whether or not you’re ready.
We all know that women tend to live longer than men. According to the CDC, the average American male will live to age 76 and the average American female to age 81. The World Health Organization’s HALE index says that a woman’s extra years tend to be healthy ones. What is even more fascinating is that this is a global truth! Regardless of who goes first (I’m sorry, there’s no better way to say it), you’ll need to know how to properly arrange a spousal beneficiary rollover.
If you don’t take the time to plan now, the court or custodian will do it for you. Do you really want to leave the decisions of your life savings to a stranger? Danger!
Our least favorite topic to discuss is divorce. It’s fairly safe to say that no one gets married thinking that one day it will end. Even if it’s warranted, it hurts to see relationships go their separate ways because it wasn’t the plan. Once a year we discuss this topic so that you (or your family members) can be informed on how to approach the financial complexity of divorce with more confidence. It’s not just about who gets the house. Rather, it’s more about the retirement accounts and future Social Security benefits. Like any other plan, think about the long game and try your best not to react to the short-term.
“Learn from the mistakes of others. You can’t live long enough to make them all yourself.”
~ Eleanor Roosevelt
Have you heard this quote before? There aren’t truer words in the world of advising. Day after day, week after week, month after month and decade after decade, we’ve had the privilege of hearing our clients tell their personal stories. We’ve also had the privilege of helping them NOT become an “example” for others of “what not to do.” Luckily, Ed Slott has compiled a list of PRL (private letter rulings) of big mistakes made by others.
Join us today for an hour of storytelling to learn by example. If you can, always choose to learn ahead of time.
Last week, Ed Slott gave us some incredible perspective as we look at the impact COVID-19 has had on retirement planning. The federal government has always been able to change the rules in the ninth inning, as we witnessed with the SECURE Act in 2019, but we’ve never experienced anything quite like this! Today, we are going to have the same conversation with you that we are having with our clients – how to play offense when you feel so defensive.
As the federal government looks to fund the stimulus package, there are rumors of higher tax rates, inflation and long-term impacts on Social Security. Retirement is your responsibility and, honestly, why would you have it any other way, especially as we enter into a COVID culture?
“Just because you can do something, doesn’t mean you should!”said our special guest, Ed Slott, CPA and America’s IRA expert! On today’s show, he explains why there is an incredible opportunity for retirees and pre-retirees today. The tax brackets are still low and if you don’t use them, you lose them! So, what does that mean for you? If RMDs are canceled for the year, should you still take yours? What about Roth conversions? Is now a good time?
He answers all of these questions plus more because, “Nothing is for everybody,” which is why you need educated advisors in the financial Olympics.
Times of crisis are extremely stressful. They can either shut us down or spring us into action. If you’re struggling with springing into action, we have a show full of action steps. We hope that it gets you fired up about your financial health even as our reality changes weekly.
Here’s your financial inventory checklist:
o Compare your portfolio to the stock market. Did you do the same, better or worse? Now would be a good time to evaluate your risk tolerance for the future
o Have you reevaluated your will or trust with an attorney?
o Double check your beneficiaries on all your financial/investment accounts
o Reassess your emergency funds. If you need more than what you’ve saved, what other accounts can you draw from?
o Consider pushing back your retirement date – those who pivot plans easily tend to do better in the long run
In this episode Dennis Prout and Heidi Thompson follow up on the CARES Act updates with CPA Jon Sluis.
Earlier this week, our team spoke extensively with Jon Sluis, a local CPA who will join us via phone during today’s program. We took three pages of notes, not including the term sheets from which he relayed information. Over the weekend, Jon read the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act twice (it’s more than 800 pages long ) as well as U.S. Senate Committee Reports, Small Business Administration and Department of Labor summaries, and other summaries. Listen … it’s overwhelming out there, but there is GOOD news … and we are on it. Over the last year, we’ve mentioned many times that the markets were overvalued, and a correction was inevitable. And no one – absolutely no one – could have seen it coming from a virus that affected the global economy. For those of us who spend our days buried in the details trying to dig a way out into daylight, we can see it. There are silver linings all around us, and that is topic of today’s show.
Today, we are going to cover just the tip of the iceberg on what’s all packed into the CARES Act, but believe us – even that is a lot! This includes: the purpose of the stimulus package, how you’ll receive your recovery rebate, whether or not you should pull $100K from your 401(k), why RMDs being waived for 2020 is a benefit to you, and the list goes on.
Some of you have already been practicing social distancing for the past week. For those of you who have just started, welcome! These are wild times. We’ve never seen anything like it. Day to day, we are experiencing a wide range of emotions. It’s important to plan appropriately and not panic, especially when you’ve watched such a drastic decline in your investments. Believe it or not, there are opportunities during a crisis. In order to stay in the long game, it’s good to take advantage of them now.
Topics of discussion today:
· Can I use the income tax deadline to my advantage?
· What are the new IRA contribution deadlines, and can they help me?
· Is now a good time to convert my Roth IRA?
· What if I had planned on retiring this year?
When fear is running rampant in the world, it is a normal reaction to retreat and hide. But as humans, we are designed to survive no matter what. It’s our most primitive calling … to live. Therefore, we work, support and thrive in an economy where our contributions matter and we are rewarded for that. As social distancing increases, it changes the economy, which is already at mercy of the market reactions. The goal of today’s show is to give you perspective. Anytime we face a global crisis, it hits close to home when our survival is threatened.
Join us today as we give you a personal and professional overview of what is currently happening in the market. Remember … this can also be a time of great opportunity. As such, we are going to stay the course. Investing is about the long game, not the short-term gains.
Dennis Prout and Heidi Thompson discuss Social Security and Medicare Taxes in this episode. Tune in to understand options to consider in this current economy.
By some miracle, we were able to get Jon Sluis out of his office during tax season! We aren’t going to waste his time or yours … so we’ve come up with a list of FRESH, relevant questions! So whether you’re planning solo or as a business owner, now is the time to take a closer look at the numbers and strategies available to you.
Today, we’ll ask Jon about the new tax laws and how they are affecting people right now. For business owners, we’ll discuss business income deductions and why they are important to owners. When it comes to saving, we want to know how CPAs and advisors think differently. And when it comes to spending, how do consumers think differently?
Are you working with the right tax professional? With the April deadline fast approaching, you may have already started reviewing your financial documents for your 2019 return. But do you have a qualified professional on your planning team? There are certain questions to ask and criteria to look for before hiring anyone. Tune in today and we’ll give you some questions that may help you!
Also, as promised, we are keeping you up-to-date with the SECURE Act and how it will affect your planning.
Finally … Heidi has some pertinent Health Savings Account information you definitely don’t want to miss!
In this episode Dennis Prout talks about the economy and current situations such as the Coronavirus that could have an impact globally. Also discussed is the Secure Act and and the Required Beginning Date (RBD), which is the date an individual is required to begin taking their Required Minimum Distributions (RMD).
Chances are you have heard about the 3.8% surtax that went into effect in 2013 under the Affordable Care Act – but do you know if and when you might need to pay it? Despite changes to the tax code in recent years, the Medicare tax and net investment income tax remain in effect. This surtax requires that an additional tax be paid by those with investment income, whether from interest, dividends, capital gains or rental properties when they are above the annual income threshold. Trusts and estates are hit especially hard; they reach the income threshold at only $12,950 in 2020. For those still earning wages or self-employment income, there might be an additional 0.9% Medicare tax to consider as well.
New Legislation called The Secure Act passed in 2019 that will be effective for 2020 tax year. Also discussed in this episode is the new IRS form W4.
They're BAAAAAAACK! February 6th, 2020 Dennis, Heidi and the team are back from their annual TD Ameritrade Conference in Orlando, Florida. It’s always a mind-blowing experience to hear from global experts in the world of finance and beyond. So today, we’ll cover exciting topics from blockchain to bitcoin. The global market is getting close to home. In fact, it’s already in your backyard.
And speaking of your yard, if you expect to find a pot of gold buried there, think again. Most families plan on leaving their treasures to charities, which isn’t such a bad idea considering that Millennials are turning out to be the most generous generation yet.
Did you know that Heidi and I (Shea) have been working together for 11 years now? Over the last few years we have developed a workshop for women called “Flourish.” This event teaches women how to look at planning for their financial future from the bird’s-eye view. This broad perspective helps us decide where we want to land in retirement.
Turns out, men want to hear the information too!
You’re in luck! Heidi and I are taking over the studio to share portions of our workshop with you. This is also a great show for younger family members who are trying to understand how and why they should get started.
As 2019 rounds the bend and gets closer to the finish, so are some legislative acts that we’ve been talking about. Ed Slott, America’s IRA expert, warned us about the likely passage of the SECURE (Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement) Act in 2020. As of last week, it passed both houses and President Trump signed the bill.
After analyzing over 225 million hours of working time in 2017, RescueTime found the average digital user switches between tasks more than 300 times per day during working hours. Daily we are making decisions about work while simultaneously managing our families, health and finances. Our digital lives, which was intended to make management easier, have made us accessible 24/7.
As a nation, I wonder if we are experiencing decision fatigue. How does one get ahead with their financial goals when the path to get there is crowded with so many immediate demands.
Tune in today and we talk about the psychology of money while giving you tangible ways to systemize your investment plans. If you want to learn more about how to manage decision fatigue, check out this Fast Company article.