Blog Financial Planning

2016 Changes Coming to Social Security and Medicare

By Ben Rickey / December 18, 2015 / Comments Off on 2016 Changes Coming to Social Security and Medicare

The budget bill signed by President Obama in November included significant changes to the Social Security program. The changes have left many pre-retirees scrambling to make sense of the new rules. Here’s a breakdown of some of the changes coming: The Good News *No COLA. Existing Medicare beneficiaries won’t see an increase in their Medicare Part…

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Year End Tax Planning

By Michelle / November 9, 2015 / Comments Off on Year End Tax Planning

With the new year just around the corner, now is a great time to think about end of year tax planning. If any of the following apply to you, it might be a good idea to call and schedule a meeting with your advisor before the end of the year.  Thinking of a Roth Conversion? If you are planning…

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Bad News for Some Medicare Beneficiaries

By Michelle / November 3, 2015 / Comments Off on Bad News for Some Medicare Beneficiaries

According to the Social Security Administration, Medicare Part B premiums will be going up beginning January 1, 2016 for more than 7 million Americans. The reason for this increase has to do with the decision not to do a cost of living increase for social security in 2016. A provision in the law states that…

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What’s the Difference? Time Weighted Return versus Internal Rate of Return

By Ben Rickey / October 13, 2015 / Comments Off on What’s the Difference? Time Weighted Return versus Internal Rate of Return

A common question we hear from our clients is “what is my rate of return?” The true answer is: there is more than one way to look at returns. Understanding the differences can help you make better informed financial decisions. The two most acceptable methods to calculate returns are Time-Weight Return (TWR) and Internal Rate…

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Big Changes to Washington’s GET Program

By Ben Rickey / September 28, 2015 / Comments Off on Big Changes to Washington’s GET Program

Earlier this month, changes were made to the Guaranteed Education Tuition (GET) program. The changes were in response to the recent reduction in tuition for Washington’s public colleges and universities. Tuition will be reduced at UW & WSU by 15% over the next two academic years. In addition, beginning in 2017-18, resident undergraduate tuition will…

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Income in Retirement – Can it affect your Social Security Benefits?

By Ben Rickey / September 21, 2015 / Comments Off on Income in Retirement – Can it affect your Social Security Benefits?

These days, returning to work after retiring is a common trend. Whether you’re looking for an additional income stream to ease your finances into full retirement, or maybe you’re wanting to purse that dream career. Whatever your reason for re-entering the workforce, your Social Security, health insurance, and tax situation may be affected. Here’s some…

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Getting the most from your Social Security Benefits

By Ben Rickey / July 20, 2015 / Comments Off on Getting the most from your Social Security Benefits

It can be one of the most important financial decisions you’ll have to make in your life – when to begin taking Social Security retirement benefits.  The years between 62 and 70 can make a world of difference to your financial future and the future of your spouse and heirs. Often, the decision can be…

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Fifteen Ways to Save Money Fast (Part 1)

By Ben Rickey / February 5, 2015 / Comments Off on Fifteen Ways to Save Money Fast (Part 1)

There are infinite life changes that can help you save money, but here are a few of the easiest. These fifteen tips and tricks will help keep your wallet fat and happy. 1. Learn to Make Starbucks at Home Whether you learned the habit in college, from parents, or at the office, a warm morning…

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Overcoming the Top Money Problems That Lead to Financial Regrets

By Ben Rickey / February 5, 2015 / Comments Off on Overcoming the Top Money Problems That Lead to Financial Regrets

Most people would love to have a do-over when it comes to how they have handled their money. A recent survey by Money-Rates cited by Personal Finance Cheat Sheet examined the average person’s financial regrets and fears. By making a conscious commitment to change financial habits and attitudes, it’s possible to overcome obstacles that get…

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Millennials and Their Money: 3 Tips for Overcoming Investing Fears

By Ben Rickey / October 23, 2014 / Comments Off on Millennials and Their Money: 3 Tips for Overcoming Investing Fears

When it comes to Millennials—Americans ages 18 to 29—and their money, most have a sinking feeling that investing in the stock market is like boarding the Titanic. According to a recent Bankrate.com study cited by a recent The Street article, younger people prefer cash or cash equivalent investments. How can a young person get over…

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