Wealth Planning Commentary – October 27, 2025

NBA Betting Scandal Highlights Tax Treatment of Gambling Income and Losses  The recent NBA gambling scandal, which led to more than 30 arrests, has drawn widespread attention to the broader world of sports betting. The fraud involved players and coaches selling sensitive injury and lineup information for cash or a share of betting proceeds. In some […]

Wealth Planning Commentary – October 20, 2025

Medicare Open Enrollment: Rising Costs and New Restrictions Medicare open enrollment for 2026 runs through December 7, and several important changes are on the horizon. Many participants will likely face higher premiums, reduced benefits, and more restrictive provider networks. The baseline Part B premium is expected to rise from $185 to $206 a month, representing […]

Wealth Planning Commentary – October 13, 2025

Annuities as a Default Option for 401(k)s? U.S. Department of Labor Says Yes, But Be Wary Recent updates to retirement plan rules are designed to make it easier for employers to include lifetime income options—most commonly annuities—inside 401(k) plans. The purpose is straightforward: to help you turn a portion of your savings into a dependable […]

Wealth Planning Commentary – October 6, 2025

Year-End Wealth Planning Guide (2025–2026) As we approach the end of 2025, we would like to bring to your attention several important year-end planning considerations and deadlines. The following sections outline key strategies and timelines related to retirement accounts, gifting, and tax filing considerations. Planning Considerations for the End of the Year 1. Tax Brackets, […]

Wealth Planning Commentary – September 29, 2025

A Window of Opportunity: Home Energy Tax Credits Are Expiring Soon  The end of the year is fast approaching, and with it, a significant opportunity for homeowners is set to expire. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act has accelerated the termination of several federal home-energy tax credits, meaning that 2025 is the last chance for […]

Wealth Planning Commentary – September 22, 2025

The Fed Cut Rates. What About Your Debt?  The Federal Reserve has recently lowered its benchmark interest rate and hinted at two more reductions this year. This pivotal move carries implications that will influence the economy and, more specifically, your personal finances. One critical area to review now is the liabilities section of your balance […]

Wealth Planning Commentary – September 15, 2025

Lower Rates Likely Raise Your Insurance Premiums  It is very possible that the Federal Reserve will lower interest rates this week, and this could potentially affect the premiums you pay for your property and casualty (P&C) insurance.  The relationship between interest rates and insurance premiums isn’t immediately obvious, but it’s a fundamental part of the […]

From Mortgages to Taxes to Estates: How to Prepare for Falling Interest Rates

As published in Kiplinger As speculation grows that the Federal Reserve will soon start lowering interest rates, now is a good time to review your financial plans for housing, estate, taxes, investing and retirement to make the most of potential changes.There’s growing speculation that the Federal Reserve might start lowering interest rates later this year or next. […]

Wealth Planning Commentary – September 8, 2025

A Love Story and a Financial Roadmap When you see a couple like Taylor and Travis in the news, it’s easy to get lost in the romance. The glitz, the glamour, the record-breaking stadium tours, and the Super Bowl wins—it’s all part of the modern fairy tale. But for a moment, let’s pull back the […]

Wealth Planning Commentary – September 2, 2025

Will Interest Rates Drop? How it May Affect Your Plan There’s increasing speculation that the Federal Reserve might start lowering interest rates later this year or next. While no one can pinpoint the exact timing, it’s helpful to consider how a lower rate environment could impact financial decisions related to housing, estate planning, taxes, investing, […]