Blog
Five Steps to Protect Your Family from Financial Fraud
February 16, 2026
Financial fraud is becoming more sophisticated with advances in artificial intelligence and digital technology. Learn five practical steps to protect your accounts, strengthen safeguards, and reduce your family’s risk of financial loss.
This Valentine’s Day, Fall in Love with a Smarter College Plan
February 11, 2026
Valentine’s Day is a reminder that thoughtful planning is an act of care—and college planning is no exception. This article explores why starting the college conversation early, understanding financial aid timelines, and setting clear expectations can help families make confident, financially sound decisions long before tuition bills arrive.
Preparing for Inflation: Practical Budgeting and Investment Strategies for a Higher-Cost World
February 11, 2026
Inflation has reshaped household budgets and long-term financial planning, with the cost of living rising nearly 20% since 2021. This article explores practical budget adjustments and investment strategies designed to help protect purchasing power and build resilience during prolonged inflationary periods.
The Case for Diversification in a World of Gold and Silver
February 4, 2026
Gold and silver are grabbing headlines as investors seek shelter from inflation, volatility, and global uncertainty. While precious metals can play a limited role during turbulent times, they don’t generate income or long-term growth—and their prices are often driven by speculation. In this article, we explore the recent rise of gold and silver, weigh their pros and cons, and explain why true diversification through productive assets remains the most reliable path to lasting wealth.
Do Gold and Silver Belong in My Portfolio
February 2, 2026
Gold and silver have surged to record highs, reigniting investor interest in precious metals. But strong recent returns don’t automatically mean they belong at the center of your portfolio. In this article, we explore what’s driving today’s rally, the historical role of precious metals, and how gold and silver may fit into a diversified, long-term investment strategy.
Importance of Knowing Your Tax Situation
January 27, 2026
Understanding your tax situation is more than just knowing how to file—it’s a critical foundation for smart financial decision-making. From choosing the right filing status to working with a CPA or financial advisor, clarity around your taxes can uncover opportunities to save money today and build wealth for tomorrow. With the right strategy and professional guidance, you’re not just paying taxes—you’re paying them in the smartest way possible.
The Widow Trap
January 26, 2026
Retirement planning doesn’t end when you stop working — it evolves. From managing RMDs and Medicare IRMAA surcharges to navigating the often-overlooked widow’s trap, smart tax planning can make a meaningful difference in preserving your wealth. Learn how strategic Roth conversions, tax diversification, and proactive planning can help protect your retirement income and support surviving spouses.
72(t) & Rule of 55: Options for Early Retirees
January 18, 2026
A new kind of retiree is emerging—the Everyday Millionaire, Generation 2.0. Raised on God’s wisdom and disciplined financial habits, they avoided debt, saved faithfully, and invested 15% of their income. Many will have more than enough to retire early. But retiring before age 59½ raises questions. The good news? IRS rules like 72(t) distributions and the Rule of 55 allow early access to retirement savings—without penalties—when used wisely and intentionally.
Donor-Advised Funds, the One Big Beautiful Bill, and Bunching Charitable Contributions
January 18, 2026
On a warm July 4th night in 2025, as fireworks lit the Florida sky, a quiet but powerful shift in the tax code took place. The One Big Beautiful Bill didn’t just extend the largest standard deduction in U.S. history—it created a rare window for thoughtful generosity. In this chapter, we explore how Donor-Advised Funds and charitable “bunching” can turn faithful giving into an even greater act of stewardship, allowing families to give more, pay less in taxes, and align their wealth with values
Whitaker-Myers Tax Advisors Expands with the Acquisition of Goude Tax
January 1, 2026
Whitaker-Myers Tax Advisors has acquired Goude Tax, led by Enrolled Agent Starr Goude, who has served clients since 1996. This partnership preserves a legacy rooted in military-focused tax expertise while supporting Starr’s thoughtful transition toward retirement. Clients will continue receiving trusted care—now enhanced by coordinated tax and financial planning through the Whitaker-Myers team.
Whitaker-Myers Group Expands in Bluffton, South Carolina with Acquisition of John Mosca CPA, PC
January 1, 2026
Whitaker-Myers Group is expanding its presence in Bluffton, South Carolina with the acquisition of John Mosca CPA, PC. This addition strengthens our integrated tax and wealth management services while preserving the trusted relationships clients value. With John Mosca continuing through 2026 and our CFP® and tax professionals working together, clients benefit from coordinated planning designed to serve families well—today and for generations to come.
Trump Accounts — Jumpstarting the Next Generation’s Financial Future
January 1, 2026
Trump Accounts are a new, government-backed investment tool designed to give children a powerful financial head start. With a one-time federal seed contribution, tax-deferred growth, and long-term investing in broad U.S. stock market index funds, these accounts harness the power of time and compounding. For parents and grandparents, Trump Accounts offer a forward-thinking way to build financial confidence and opportunity for the next generation.
2026 Retirement Contribution Limits: What Changed and What You Should Do Now
December 28, 2025
The IRS increased retirement contribution limits for 2026, giving investors more room to build wealth. IRA and Roth IRA limits are now $7,500, with a higher catch-up for those 50 and older. Income limits and deduction rules still apply, so knowing where and how to invest matters. This update breaks down what changed and why you may need to adjust your monthly contributions to stay on track.
The Little-Known Strategy That Can Turn IRA Dollars Into Tax-Free Money
December 28, 2025
Most people don’t realize you can make a one-time, tax-free transfer from an IRA into an HSA. If you’re covered by an HSA-eligible health plan and not yet on Medicare, this strategy can quietly turn tax-deferred IRA dollars into tax-free money for future healthcare costs. For people in their early 60s with large IRAs, it can reduce future RMDs and create meaningful flexibility for medical and long-term care expenses.
Whitaker-Myers Tax Advisors Announces New Enrolled Agent: John-Mark Young
December 6, 2025
Whitaker-Myers Tax Advisors is proud to announce that John-Mark Young has earned his Enrolled Agent designation. This achievement allows him to represent clients before the IRS, file tax returns, and offer the informed guidance our clients expect. His expanded expertise strengthens our commitment to true holistic financial planning.
Financial Aid and Parental Stress - November College Education
November 24, 2025
November may be the eleventh month of the year, but for many families it feels like the busiest. While we enjoy the traditions and history of the season, it also brings real-life responsibilities—especially for parents with college-bound seniors. And when it comes to college planning, nothing seems to raise the blood pressure faster than the financial aid process.
Generosity vs Debt: Christmas Edition
November 24, 2025
Terms like “debt,” “overspending,” and “pressure” imply that these statistics tell a negative story about the average consumer's decisions during this time of year. While it is unwise to spend above your budget or take on debt for gifts, I believe it also reveals a broader societal or moral pressure to purchase extravagant gifts for the most important people in our lives.
Can I Save for College and Retirement at the Same Time?
November 17, 2025
Dave Ramsey’s Baby Steps suggest saving for retirement before college — but that doesn’t mean you have to finish one before starting the other. Financial Advisor Matthew Harris breaks down how to balance both goals, use time and compounding interest to your advantage, and make smart choices that keep you on track for retirement without sacrificing your kids’ education.
How Social Security COLA and Portfolio Strategy Impact Retirement Planning
November 17, 2025
Ensuring adequate savings for a lengthy retirement stands as the paramount concern for retirees and individuals nearing retirement. Recent years of elevated inflation have diminished the buying power of cash reserves, creating additional hurdles.
