Retirement accounts that provide tax breaks have very specific rules that must be followed if you want to enjoy the financial rewards of those tax breaks. One of these rules defines WHEN you’re allowed to pull money from your retirement accounts. If you pull money too soon, you’re at risk of being levied with a…

While your credit score is a three-digit number that’s automatically assigned to you, this is one area of your financial life where you have quite a bit of control. The moves you make or don’t make with your credit can help determine where this score falls at any time, and the impact can be dramatic….

6 Surprising Taxable Items If something of value changes hands, you can bet the IRS considers a way to tax it. Here are six taxable items that might surprise you:   Surprise #1: Hidden treasure. In 1964, a married couple discovered $4,467 in a used piano they purchased seven years prior for $15. After reporting this…

5 keys to better cash management   Focusing on sales and profits can create a surprise for your business when there is not enough cash to pay the bills. Here are five practices to help improve your cash management. Create a cash flow statement and analyze it monthly. The primary objective of a cash flow…

Some great ideas to consider Now’s the perfect time to review your financial health and set yourself up for success in 2025. The following checklist can help you organize your goals, identify areas for improvement, and make informed decisions about your money. Calculate your net worth. Add up all your assets (savings, investments, property and other…

Protect yourself from modern-day counterfeiters Finding brand name products at a great price can leave you feeling like you won the lottery, but there are hidden dangers that come into play if the goods aren’t what they seem. Here are some commonly counterfeited items and what you need to know to protect yourself. Commonly Counterfeited…

Consistent with our new year’s theme of starting the new year out on a great financial footing, one cannot overlook planning for your retirement future. Now is a good time to review your alternatives and plan to take full advantage of programs available to you and your family. Here are some ideas. Maximize your employer…

With the new year underway, it may be time to come up with a list of goals and that could make 2024 the most financially rewarding year for your entire family. Your motivation can be nearly anything, from saving for retirement or paying for college. Consider these resolutions that can also provide a financial boost:…

As part of our new year issue, why not include some ideas to help those around us set themselves up for a great financial future. This article focuses on ideas to help create financial savvy children and grandchildren. It’s never too late to impart your wisdom. Here are some age-relevant suggestions to help develop a…

With tax season officially underway, here are tips to make filing your return as stress-free as possible: Gather your tax information for filing. Items you’ll need include W-2s, 1099s, K-1s and other forms you receive from your business, employers, brokers, banks, and others. If you find any errors, contact the issuer immediately to request a corrected…