Retirement Planning

Why Doing “Nothing” is Sometimes the Smartest Move

Market volatility can tempt investors into making emotional decisions at exactly the wrong time. In this article, Financial Advisor Nick Allen explains why staying disciplined, trusting your long-term plan, and resisting the urge to react during downturns can often lead to better financial outcomes.

ESOP Strategies That Work: How to Diversify, Reduce Taxes, and Protect Your Retirement

An Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) can become one of your greatest retirement assets—or one of your biggest risks if left unmanaged. In this article, Associate Financial Advisor Joseph Browning explains the three critical phases of ESOP planning: understanding your plan, diversifying strategically, and creating a tax-aware retirement income strategy.

Thrift Savings Plan - Is Roth Conversion Right for You?

The Thrift Savings Plan now allows in-plan Roth conversions, giving federal employees and military members new flexibility in managing retirement taxes. But while this strategy can unlock tax-free growth, it also comes with important rules, timing considerations, and potential pitfalls that require careful planning.

Umbrella Insurance: The Extra Layer of Protection Your Financial Plan Needs

Most people rely on home and auto insurance to protect their assets—but what happens when those limits aren’t enough? Umbrella insurance provides an added layer of liability coverage that helps safeguard your savings, investments, and future income from unexpected claims or lawsuits.

My Spouse Just Passed – Should I Treat Their Retirement Accounts as Inherited, or My Own?

When a spouse passes away, managing retirement accounts can quickly become confusing. Associate Financial Advisor Joseph Browning explains the key differences between keeping an IRA as inherited or treating it as your own—and how that decision can affect taxes, withdrawals, and long-term financial planning.

The Hidden Tax Advantages of Starting A 401(k)

Many business owners assume a 401(k) plan is too expensive to start—but recent tax credits may significantly reduce the cost. Associate Financial Advisor David Gearhart explains how startup, employer contribution, and automatic enrollment credits can help businesses provide valuable retirement benefits while lowering their tax burden.

A Life-Changing Ah-ha Moment: What I learned from Dave Ramsey

Financial Advisor Joe Mains reflects on a life-changing lesson he learned from Dave Ramsey during Financial Peace University—and how it reshaped his view of investing, retirement income, and legacy planning. Discover the powerful “10% principle” and what it could mean for your family’s future.

Tactical Portfolios: Navigating Bull and Bear Markets

Markets move in cycles, and successful investing requires both long-term strategy and tactical flexibility. This article explores how strategic and tactical asset allocation can help investors manage risk, respond to changing market conditions, and make retirement withdrawals more efficiently. Learn how a disciplined approach can help navigate both bull and bear markets.

The Leisure Lie: A Retirement Unfulfilled?

Retirement is often portrayed as a permanent vacation, but true fulfillment comes from purpose, relationships, and meaningful engagement. This article challenges the cultural “leisure lie” and explores how retirees can build a rewarding next chapter grounded in connection and contribution.

72(t) & Rule of 55: Options for Early Retirees

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.

Making Money a Strength in Marriage

Let’s establish the fact that money will have an impact on your most important relationship on earth. You cannot ignore the topic, because one or both spouses will deal with money, either in small or large amounts, virtually every day.

2026 Retirement Contribution Limits: What Changed and What You Should Do Now

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.