Waiting too long to purchase long-term care insurance can result in higher premiums or being turned down for a policy. Here we discuss the optimal age range to buy this protection.
Trying to time the market often results in below-average returns. Instead, time in the market is the key. Read more about the distinction between these two in our monthly blog.
One size does not fit all when it comes to investments. Before buying the latest trendy stock, do your homework or talk to a financial professional to understand if it’s an appropriate addition to your portfolio. Our blog walks you through some things to consider before investing.
Knowing what needs to be done following the death of a spouse can be daunting. This blog walks through some key things to consider first and how important it is to surround yourself with a trustworthy team to help you through the transition.
As people reassess their priorities, consider creating “money memories” for you and your loved ones. Our blog illustrates how these may be more valued and cherished than any cash gift.
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA) offer employees a way to pay for some medical expenses with pre-tax dollars. Learn more about their rules and differences in this blog, the third in a series about creating a good, financial foundation.
Financial Foundations – Starting a Savings Strategy
February 1, 2022
This blog is the second in a series about setting up a good financial foundation. We’ll discuss some rules of thumb for how much income you should save.
Recent graduates often feel overwhelmed and confused with many of the financial decisions they are now forced to make. To help ease that transition, we’ve created a blog series about starting out with a good, financial foundation. The first in this series delves into employer retirement plans.
To illustrate just how important having your legal affairs in order is, this Estate Planning blog details a recent experience after losing a loved one.
It’s never too early to starting planning for college. A tax-advantaged 529 college savings plan is a great way to invest for education costs. Learn more about 529 plans in our blog.
Many clients with IRAs or retirement account have heard about Required Minimum Distributions or RMDs but they may not understand all the rules. Check out our blog to learn about the rules to follow and the penalties to avoid.
Establishing and maintaining an emergency fund is one of those personal finance best practices that we learned in school but may have forgotten until faced with a crisis. Read our blog to learn how much you should have tucked away for emergencies.
When clients change or lose jobs, they have questions about what they should do with their old 401(k)s or retirement plans. Here are some general guidelines on options that you may have.
Discussing money with your family is often taboo. Break that mindset and start having a family money discussion so they can learn and understand your thoughts, goals, and intentions with your hard-earned wealth.
Turning 50? Take advantage of retirement plan catch-up contributions
December 31, 2020
There are some advantages to turning 50, such as being able to increase your retirement plan contributions each year. Read our blog to learn about catch-up contribution limits. It’s a great way to make a fresh start in the new year.
2020 brought a new focus on the importance of having some money saved and available for unplanned emergencies. But, many people need help getting started. Here are 6 simple savings strategies.
Would you drop your homeowner’s insurance if you knew there was a 70% chance you would have a claim? NO? Then you may want to consider Long Term Care Insurance.
With volatile markets, investors can be nervous that they may buy high one day and then see their investment value drop the next. To mitigate that risk, many clients use a strategy known as dollar cost averaging to make their investments. Read more about this approach in our blog.
Planning for retirement should include more than just reviewing your financial situation. It should also factor in ensuring you have adequate health care coverage. Before you retire, make sure you know all your health insurance options.
With a few weeks to go before Tax Day, we often get phone calls with questions about Roth IRAs and Traditional IRAs. Read more to learn the answers to many frequently asked questions by our clients.
Estate Planning is not just for the wealthy. Everyone, regardless of age, health, or wealth, needs some form of estate planning. Read our blog to learn what documents you may need to get your estate in order.
Investing 101: Compound Interest and The Rule of 72
January 14, 2020
Investing in the stock market requires patience and commitment, something many investors struggle to exhibit. Consistently investing on a set schedule can yield big results. As we continue our Investing 101 blog series, click on the link below to learn more about the power of compound interest and the Rule of 72.
Many people new to the world of investing are confused by the financial jargon. This first of a series of blogs is devoted to explaining financial terms and concepts. We’ll start with discussing the basics: investing vs. savings.
Student loan debt is growing as the cost of college continues to outpace inflation. College students should carefully weigh their options and understand the financial impact of taking out student loans. Here we dive into the reality of how these loans translate into payments as graduates enter the workforce.
As more and more clients are inheriting assets from their loved ones, the need for financial planning is increasing. With inherited assets, there are different options available, depending upon the type of account, as well as special rules that must be followed. When faced with questions on how best to manage these inherited assets, Hovis & Associates can help provide the answers.
Have you ever wondered how much money you will need in retirement? Or maybe, how much life insurance you will need to protect your family should something happen to you? If finding the answers to questions like these keeps you up at night, it might be time to consider financial planning.
As we near May 29th, what better time to talk about 529 plans! College costs continue to increase year over year. Curious what the expected costs will be for your children or grandchildren? Hovis & Associates can help calculate those costs and put a savings plan in place to help you meet your education goals.
Despite their differences, clients have similar concerns when it comes to finances. Let us know what you think. Reply back with your biggest financial worry.
With a few weeks to go before Tax Day, we often get phone calls with questions about Roth IRAs and Traditional IRAs. Read more to learn the answers to many frequently asked questions by our clients.
Social Security Dilemma: When should I start claiming?
January 14, 2020
Are you nearing age 62 and have questions regarding Social Security? Do you want to make sure you get as much of your money back from Social Security as possible? You are not alone. Here are 3 things to consider before deciding when to start claiming.