Understanding Qualified Higher Education Expenses for Your 529 Plan

Understanding Qualified Higher Education Expenses for Your 529 Plan We wanted to address some common questions regarding what qualifies as “Qualified Higher Education Expenses” for distributions from a 529 Plan. Understanding these guidelines is crucial to ensuring that you maximize the benefits of your 529 Plan.   Allowable Expenses The following expenses are generally eligible…

Tariffs Shape Markets—What Lies Ahead?

Market Update: Q1 2025 With Q1 2025 now behind us, markets have navigated a shifting terrain of opportunities and uncertainties, driven by a new Trump administration’s push for tariffs, tax cuts, and deregulation. We are witnessing a significant global economic transition, marked by a new U.S. administration under President Trump, which has launched initiatives including…

Market Rundown Q4 2024

Market Rundown 2024 As we close out 2024, markets reflect a year of profound global and economic shifts. The inauguration of a new U.S. president has introduced policy shifts to address persistent economic challenges, such as inflation control, infrastructure investment, and energy transition. These efforts are expected to shape domestic markets and influence global trade…

Market Rundown Q3 2024

Market Rundown Q3 2024 As we approach the final stretch of 2024, the crispness of fall sets in, leaves drift to the ground, and daylight fades a little earlier each day—definitely a shift in mood. While the cool air marks the season’s change, one reassuring constant remains: the markets continue to show resilience and growth.…

Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCD)

In today’s world, it’s important to plan your finances wisely. Creative charitable giving strategies, such as Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) are a way to increase your charitable impact while reducing potential taxes. What’s a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD)? It’s a direct transfer from your IRA to a qualified charity that counts towards the money you’re…

Navigating the Loss of Your Loved One

Losing a loved one brings a flood of emotions that can make tasks like managing financial obligations feel overwhelming. This checklist is designed to help you stay organized during this challenging time. Please feel free to share it with others who may need support as well. Remember, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.…

Market Rundown Q2 2024

Over the past few decades, the investment landscape has been characterized by declining interest rates, low inflation, and globalization. However, this is now changing. Interest rates are at a 23-year high, inflation remains elevated, and globalization is facing headwinds. Additionally, geopolitical tensions have increased. And despite the highest Federal Reserve policy rate in 23 years,…

Considerations When Electing Social Security

Social Security benefits serve as a critical component of retirement income for millions of Americans. Deciding when to elect these benefits can significantly impact one’s financial well-being in retirement. However, the optimal timing for claiming Social Security isn’t a one-size-fits-all scenario. It depends on various individual circumstances, including financial needs, health status, longevity expectations, and…