Posts in Financial Planning
Understanding Differences in the “Flations”

Over the past 3 years, the word “inflation” has dominated the headlines. In the current environment, there seems to be some confusion among investors and consumers regarding this term and what is happening. Therefore, we thought it would be a good idea to go over some of the key “flation” terms and clarify what each means and where we are today.

 

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Financial Planning and the Importance of Discipline

For most, achieving financial success isn’t about picking the right stock, saving to the right account, or even finding the perfect advisory firm. Financial success is most often achieved through discipline, intention, and consistency.

 

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How Do You Compare Target Date Funds?

Target Date funds have grown in popularity over the last decade especially inside employer benefit plans such as 401Ks.  On the surface, they all seem to be exactly the same.  First, you pick your fund based on your anticipated retirement date.  Then you let the manager handle the rest – they utilize their glide path and make the portfolio more conservative as you approach retirement.  While true, behind the scenes there are subtle differences that investors should be aware.

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Celebrating 20 Years!

Since 2004, much has changed, but one thing has remained constant: our unwavering commitment to helping our clients. As we’ve matured and experienced life’s ups and downs ourselves, we’ve come to truly appreciate the value of the advice Beacon provides and the difference it makes for our clients.

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Preparing for Rising Tax Rates

The current tax code is set to expire in 2026.  The article shows what has happened with tax rates since 2016 and what is scheduled to happen going forward until 2030. There are some notable changes beginning in 2026.

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2024 Numbers to Know

The IRS has announced contribution savings limits for retirement savings accounts for 2024. All the maximum contributions to retirement plans have increased by $500. Make sure you let your payroll department know that you want to increase your contributions to these plans.

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Understanding Risk—Capacity, Tolerance, Perception & Risk Required

We explore the four elements of an investor's risk profile - risk capacity, risk required, risk tolerance and risk perception. Understanding each type of risk is an essential element of building an investment portfolio that can both meet your specific investment needs, while allowing you to sleep easy during times of personal and financial stress.

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The Rules are Changing (Again!) for Required Minimum Distributions

The SECURE Act 2.0 altered the onset of Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from age 72 to age 73. However, the law made no change to the Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) rules. So, while a RMD is not required until age 73, a taxpayer over age 70 ½ is allowed to distribute directly from their IRA to their favorite charity and avoid taxation.

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