Category: Article
Before You Make That Charitable Donation This Fall
Before you write that check: donating appreciated shares or making a QCD may give charities more and possibly cut your taxes.
Retirement Is More Than a Number
In this episode of The Real Return, Zach Ivey, chief investment and advice officer, sits down with Christine Benz, director of personal finance and retirement planning at Morningstar and the author of How to Retire.
What If Your Estate Planning Strategy Works Too Well?
Estate planning can create new problems. Learn why grantor trust taxes, aging insurance trusts, and unspoken family expectations deserve a second look.
Empowering the Next Generation: Including Children in Charitable Giving
Involving children in charitable giving nurtures empathy, responsibility, and financial awareness — especially within affluent families. A thoughtful, staged approach helps prepare the next generation to steward wealth wisely while fostering a lifelong commitment to philanthropy and meaningful social impact.
Retiring Single? Five Key Questions to Guide Your Plan
Planning for retirement as a single? Learn how to build a confident, independent future with smart strategies.
Is a Roth Conversion Right for You?
Learn how an IRA to Roth conversion works, which rules apply, how to convert a traditional IRA, and when paying the tax now may make sense for your retirement.
Looking Ahead to 2027: A Budgeting Guide for Retirement Plan Sponsors
Building a 2027 retirement plan budget? Review plan fees, employer contributions, service arrangements, and potential changes before year-end.
How Chicagoland Families Can Balance Today’s Financial Priorities with Tomorrow’s Goals
Balance retirement, education, giving, and legacy goals in one plan. See which Illinois rules reward today’s decisions and which raise the stakes on tomorrow’s.
Grief and Your Money: Avoid These Mistakes
The loss of a loved one can be devastating, and there is no easy way through it. Everyone grieves and heals at their own pace, in their own way. Some will look inward for the strength to make it through, and some will reach out for support.
Creating a Retirement Budget
A well-structured budget is key for planning a relaxing retirement. Key components: Understand your retirement income, categorize expenses, and track spending. Be flexible and set clear financial goals.
Fall Check-In: Why Retirement Benefits Continue to Matter to Employees
Retirement plans can support employee savings efforts and complement broader benefits strategies. Explore key considerations for employers.
When Spouses Retire at Different Times: Financial and Lifestyle Considerations
Explore financial and lifestyle considerations when spouses retire at different times, including cash flow, healthcare, taxes, and shared goals.