Getting rich and building wealth aren't the same. Riches can come fast and disappear just as quickly. Wealth is built over time—through discipline, smart investing, and long-term planning. One is flashy; the other is lasting. At Whitaker-Myers, we help you take the steady, proven path to true financial security. Don't just get rich—build wealth that lasts.

Baby Step 4 of the Ramsey Plan recommends saving 15% of your gross income for retirement. This guide explains how to structure those savings using a 401(k), Roth IRA, or taxable brokerage depending on your income, filing status, and employer plan access. Key rule: “Match beats Roth, Roth beats Pre-Tax.” Whether you're single or married, with or without a plan, there’s a strategy to fit your situation. Consult a financial advisor to create a plan that works for you.

A revocable living trust helps avoid probate, ensures privacy, and provides continuity if you’re incapacitated. But it doesn’t protect assets from lawsuits or help with Medicaid eligibility. It also doesn’t reduce taxes. To fill those gaps, consider an umbrella liability policy for asset protection and long-term care insurance for nursing home costs. A trust is a great start—but a complete plan requires more.

Tariffs can greatly impact investments, and Dave Ramsey’s four categories—Growth, Growth & Income, Aggressive Growth, and International—respond differently. Growth stocks may be hit hardest, while Aggressive Growth and International companies may benefit. Diversifying across all four can help reduce risk. Understanding these effects with the help of a financial advisor can guide smarter investing in uncertain times.

Not all financial advisors are created equal. A CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® (CFP®) stands out for their fiduciary duty, rigorous training, and ethical standards. CFP® professionals offer holistic planning, objective advice, and a commitment to your best interests. With trusted credentials and dedication, they provide peace of mind in your financial journey. Choose wisely—your financial future depends on it.

John-Mark Young has officially earned the Certified Financial Planner® certification after 14 months of study and dedication.

Clay Reynolds earns his Enrolled Agent designation from the IRS.

STRS is offering an early retirement incentive for defined benefit plan members with 33 years of service or age 60 with 5 years of service between June 2025 and July 2027. Deciding whether to accept depends on your full financial picture. Run benefit estimates for different retirement points and factor in any salary increases. Then, meet with an STRS counselor and your Whitaker-Myers advisor to determine the best option for your goals.

When it comes to financial planning, it's important to recognize what we can and cannot control. We can control our own behavior, make...

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Managing the sequence of return risk in your retirement planning process I am not a gambler.  But I have seen it close enough to...

Looking toward the future We are in the first innings of what will be the greatest transfer of wealth in US history. It is estimated that...

If you listen to The Dave Ramsey Show  for just one episode, it will become very apparent that he is very passionate about relaying the...

John-Mark Young earns the ChFC designation from the American College of Financial Services

Introduction If you are a small business owner or self-employed, you may be looking for tax-advantaged ways to save for retirement above...

Health Savings Accounts can be used to save money on taxes and provide strategic tax planning for higher income years.

5 Insights for your financial, saving and investing life for 2025.

The Social Security Fairness Act was approved in the House in November and in the Senate early Saturday morning.

The new year can fill you with a sense of hope and expectation.  There are new goals to reach and new challenges to tackle.  Something...

Cleveland Clinic and Fidelity BrokerageLink - a powerful combo for retirement savers