Blog

When Retirement Comes Sooner Than Expected: How to Prepare for the Unexpected

Most of us picture retirement as something we plan for and choose—maybe it’s age 65, or when the mortgage is paid off, or once the kids are settled. But the truth is, retirement doesn’t always happen on our timeline.

Understanding Homeowners Insurance: Smart Protection for What Matters Most

No one loves insurance... until they need it. That’s why we’re spending time today talking about homeowners insurance—not just to check a box, but to help you make sure you’re truly protected.

Protecting Yourself from Financial Elder Abuse

As we grow older, it’s natural to rely more on others for help with daily tasks and financial responsibilities. But with that reliance comes a risk that’s both real and deeply personal: financial elder abuse.

How to Make Your Retirement Savings Last: Understanding Withdrawal Rate Risk

When you reach retirement, your focus often shifts from growing your investments to carefully drawing from them to fund your lifestyle. However, there's a key challenge that many retirees underestimate: withdrawal rate risk—the possibility that you might outlive your savings.

Why Seniors Need a Financial Advisor: Planning for a Secure and Meaningful Retirement

As we age, our financial concerns evolve. Whether you're approaching retirement or have been enjoying it for years, the decisions you make now will shape your future. The financial landscape for seniors is complex...

How Your Risk Tolerance Affects Your Retirement Income Plan

As you approach and enter retirement, your risk tolerance plays an even bigger role in shaping your income strategy.

How much will Retirement Cost?

Planning for retirement isn’t just about saving; it’s about understanding how your expenses will change over time, how long your savings need to last, and whether you’re truly ready for what’s ahead. Let’s explore the key factors that shape the retirement journey, from common expenses to how prepared Americans really are.

Buffered ETFs: What Are They and What Are Their Pros and Cons?

Within the vast world of ETFs, a relatively new category called "Buffered ETFs" has emerged, offering a unique approach to risk management.

AbbVie Executives: Optimizing your Tax Situation

You may have received a refund or owed money this year. By reviewing this year and adjusting some things, you can prepare for next year's tax filing with minimal surprises.

Maximizing your AbbVie Bonus

[VIDEO] Each November marks your eligibility for the AbbVie bonus, whether you're enrolled in CPS, AIP, or SIP. What are the options for spending this bonus?

Understanding Social Security Benefit Taxation as an AbbVie Executive

Social Security benefit taxation has to be considered when you are designing your retirement income with your AbbVie retiree benefits.

Not all inheritances are financial blessings.....

Not everyone receives a straightforward cash gift from a benevolent relative. An "unwanted inheritance" can be akin to an elephant in the room, requiring prompt selling, liquidation, or transfer to prevent ongoing drains on time and money.

The Chicago Real Estate Playbook: Savvy Advice for Buyers and Sellers

The decision to buy or sell a home in Chicagoland requires careful consideration of your financial stability, personal circumstances, and market dynamics. In this guide, let's look at the key factors shaping the Chicagoland real estate market, and equip you with practical insights to make confident decisions, whether you're a buyer or a seller.

Opening Day for the Cubs: Chicago-style Baseball Analogies that Ring True in Personal Finance

Baseball is a game of strategy, patience, and discipline – qualities also crucial for effective financial management. So, grab a hot dog, and let's delve into some key insights we can glean from the game of baseball.

Choosing a Financial Planner: Solo Professional vs. Larger Firm

Both solo financial planners and larger financial planning firms have their pros and cons, and the best option for you depends on your unique financial situation and goals.

The Power of a Chicago-Based Fiduciary Financial Planner

Not all financial planners are the same. It is a common misconception that all financial planners offer the same services: help with investment decisions and unbiased professional advice. This is not always true and it could cost you. It's important to choose an experienced and trusted financial planner - a fiduciary.

Illinois’ Financial Problems: Should your personal finances be adjusted to cope with the impact on government pensions?

The report found that there are more than 5,500 state and local government pension plans in the United States. And they are underfunded by an estimated $1 trillion (although depending on the model used, estimates run as high as $3 to $4 trillion).

My Company is doing an IPO: How do you manage your financial situation when your company goes public

When a company goes public, it's a very exciting time for employees. But there are a lot of financial decisions to make, including complex regulations, vesting schedules, and tax implications.

How to Invest in Bonds During Times of High Inflation

When inflation is on the rise, it can be difficult to know what to do with your money. In this blog post, we'll break down three major types of bonds—municipal bonds, I-bonds, and bond funds—to help you make a decision.

I'm Retiring: What Should My Inflation-Proof Portfolio Look Like?

You're not imagining it: a buck really did use to stretch further. In times of high inflation, your purchasing power can rapidly disappear. Here's how to build a portfolio to make your dollar stretch further.