Sometimes simple is best. Many of us tend to complicate our financial situation; overthinking our options while ignoring the basics.

But like anything else, the simplest rules are often the most important ones; and the ones most likely to be ignored. How many of these rules do you follow?

Retirement looks different to different people. Some envision a time of relaxation and travel. Others view this time in life as an opportunity to connect deeper with a partner or pursue those hobbies that were always difficult to find time for while amid a career. For others, retirement is just the second act of life. This is a time when some opt to start a new career as their own boss.

In a world which seems to change with each social media post, you can rest assured in our systematic process, aimed at helping you achieve financial success.

By Paul Morrone CFP®, CPA/PFS, MSA

Compensation comes in many forms, but the most common form is cash. Many employees are used to getting an annual salary and a periodic bonus, which makes tax and financial planning easier, at least from a cash flow management standpoint. Those who receive significant bonuses, however, are faced with different challenges as variable compensation (commissions, bonuses, etc.) is generally not guaranteed and can vary greatly from period to period. The ambiguity around the timing and amount of future bonuses, especially for highly compensated employees and executives, creates planning challenges for those who have compensation packages heavily influenced by future unknowns.

There are many ways that we support our favorite charitable causes. However, one of the most beneficial ways to support a favorite charity now and into perpetuity is through planned giving.

Jack notes that while the major US markets are near all-time highs, the rest of the investing world is figuring out if it should join the party.

By Paul Morrone CFP®, CPA/PFS, MSA

The ‘keeping up with the Jones’s’ mentality has never been more pervasive than it is today. Before the widespread use of social media, most people didn’t have an idea of what the rest of the world was doing aside from their neighbors, family and friends. With information about others so easily accessible as people continue to openly share details of their personal lives online, it necessitates frequent reality checks about spending, savings and living within your means. Remember, not all of us can live the Kardashian lifestyle.

By Paul Morrone CFP®, CPA/PFS, MSA

It’s rare that someone wakes up in the morning and out of nowhere has a revelation that they need to enlist some professional help to get their financial household in order. Often, people seek out advisory firms after a triggering event such as, marriage, birth, death, retirement, business sale or even after getting whacked with an unexpected tax bill. Other times it is more of a slow burn, where they know they are in over their head (and probably have been for a while) but don’t know where to start. Those that already have an advisor may be looking elsewhere due to service issues or a perceived lack of competency when discussing complex topics. Regardless of what the catalyst is to begin searching for an advisor, the key is to have an expectation of what you want to get out of the relationship.