This past Thursday, the United States House of Representatives narrowly passed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.” (Yes, that’s its actual name.) This sweeping piece of legislation covers a broad range of policy areas, including tax reforms, spending adjustments, and major program overhauls. Key provisions include making the 2017 tax [...]
There’s no denying it. We are in the midst tax season once again. That time of year when we’re all reminded of how much of our hard-earned money is going to those who govern us. If you’re anything like me, it’s also the time when you start thinking about ways [...]
I know many of you don’t want to hear this, but it’s about that time of year again. Time to start thinking about end of year tax planning. If you are retired or receiving Social Security benefits there are actually some things to be excited about as you project what [...]
As you know, death and taxes are a permanent feature of this present world. One good general principle is to delay paying taxes as long as possible, but other factors can override the tax considerations. After the past few years of changes, one must begin taking Required Minimum Distributions (RMD) [...]
Although I hate to admit it, I am officially middle aged. As tough as it is to no longer be young, it does come with certain benefits too. I consider myself blessed to be at an age where I not only have young children in my life, but also parents [...]
As sponsors of the First Responders Recognition and Awards Breakfast here in Independence, this past Thursday I was blessed to get to be in attendance as the Chamber of Commerce honored some of its very bravest public servants, including officer Cody Allen who was tragically killed in the line of [...]
One of the first truths we are all taught as young children is 1+1=2. However, as an adult, I have learned this simple equation is actually not always true. In his book Entreleadership self-help guru Dave Ramsey tells the story of the Clydesdale horse. He explains that a single Clydesdale [...]
I really can’t believe I am saying this, but the Chiefs winning their 3rd Super Bowl in 5 years may not have been the most exciting Kansas City sports news that has happened this month. As an avid baseball fan, perhaps I am a bit biased, but I think the [...]
As financial advisors one of the primary things we do is help people prepare for retirement. For most advisors, that is accomplished by helping clients build up and grow their retirement accounts in order to make sure the client can afford the standard of living they want when no longer [...]
Sometimes I get accused of beating up on young people too much. Particularly when it comes to their views on financial matters. However, a recent study conducted by Northwestern Mutual gives at least a little justification for my attacks on them. According to the survey, among all generations polled, Gen [...]
