Integras Insights
Insightful, Curated Articles to Help You Make Sound Financial Decisions
The New FAFSA
Changes to the FAFSA form and the formula for determining a family’s need for aid are changing, effective for the 2024-2025 school year. While all the changes are beyond the scope of this post, here we highlight two from a financial planning perspective. Parent...
Enjoying Today While Investing for the Future
Karen and Michael were feeling stressed about money and were referred to us for guidance. In our initial conversation, we learned that Karen has a corporate job and Michael is a freelancer. They have significant bank savings to compensate for Michael’s irregular...
IRA Basics – Traditional vs. Roth
An IRA (Individual Retirement Account) is a great opportunity for younger investors to save for retirement. IRAs come in two flavors, Traditional and Roth, the main difference being when taxes apply. While traditional IRA contributions may provide a current year tax...
Closing the Gender Gap in Investing
19% of women report feeling confident selecting investments that align with their goals
Strategies for Charitable Giving – Part 2
If you are already charitably inclined there are two gifting strategies that you should be aware of, Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) and gifting appreciated stock.
Strategies for Charitable Giving – Part 1
If you are already charitably inclined there are two gifting strategies that you should be aware of, Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) and gifting appreciated stock. To realize tax benefits for 2023, both need to be done before the end of the year.
Where are the Opportunities in Today’s Markets?
Bullish sentiment ran out of steam during Q3 2023. In a previous blog we discussed the primary culprit for that. All that said, we are now in the final quarter of the year.
Will Rising Interest Rates Cause a Recession?
August, September, and October are historically the worst three months for market performance and 2023 was no different. Everything but cash, oil and short-term treasuries had negative 3rd quarter returns. The S&P 500 lost 3.25%, small caps fell 5%, international markets dropped 3.5%, and long-term treasuries lost an astounding 8%.
Should I Opt-Out or Take the Company Pension?
Do I want to rely on the company’s future financial strength? How long will I live? What will inflation do to my pension income over time? What happens if I die? Should I take a lower amount to protect my spouse? What happens if they die? Do I have a choice to take a lump sum and control how and when I spend the money?
Do You Still Have Money in a Previous Employer’s 401(k) Plan?
If you reached age 55 in your last year with the company, you’re eligible to access funds without early withdrawal penalties. Consider leaving an amount you might need to withdraw before age 59 ½, which is the penalty-free age for IRA’s.
No matter where you stand on your financial journey, we’re here to help.