Financial Planning

We all need to plan for the future. Explore our content on Financial Planning to learn more about the foundational steps you can take to achieve your most fulfilling version of retirement.

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Pension Plan vs 401(k): Which Is the Best Choice for Your Future?

Choosing between a pension plan vs 401k is one of the biggest financial decisions many employees face. While both can help you save for retirement, their mechanics, risks, and long-term payoffs are fundamentally different. This guide breaks down the pension and 401k difference, explains the trade-offs in control and guarantees, and offers a framework for […]

A senior couple looking at paperwork with a financial advisor.

Fixed Annuity vs Variable Annuity: What Every Investor Should Know

TLDR: Fixed annuities: guaranteed rate, low fees, shield principal; inflation risk, surrender charges. Variable annuities: market-driven growth, customizable riders, tax-deferred; high fees, volatility. Choose based on time horizon, risk tolerance, goal: stable income vs growth; ladder contracts, compare carriers, read fine print, evaluate fees, taxes, surrender schedules before investing with care. Choosing between a fixed […]

A financial advisor showing documents to a middle-aged couple.

Annuity vs IRA: Pros and Cons for Your Financial Future

TLDR: Annuities buy income certainty—insurance contracts, unlimited contributions, costly fees and surrender charges. IRAs offer broad investments, low cost, but tight contribution limits and market risk. Both grow tax-deferred; Roth IRAs provide tax-free withdrawals; annuity earnings taxable. Blend vehicles: maximize 401(k)/IRA first, then fixed or variable annuity for lifetime income. Retirement saving is full of […]

Concept photo of asset management: A series of digital-looking icons (one containing the words “ASSET MANAGEMENT,” others containing images of graphs and gears) are in the foreground as a person in the background examines them.

Asset Management vs Wealth Management: Which Is Right for You?

Asset management focuses on optimizing individual investments like stocks or real estate, while wealth management takes a holistic approach to your entire financial life. Choosing between the two depends on your net worth, asset complexity, and long-term goals. Some firms offer both to create a comprehensive financial strategy. Asset Management targets the growth of specific […]

A silver-haired woman looking over financial documents at her desk, pondering her retirement plans.

Annuity vs CD: Which Provides Better Returns?

Annuities and CDs both help grow savings but differ in structure, risk, flexibility, and returns. CDs offer FDIC-backed, lower-risk, fixed returns, while annuities provide more flexibility, higher potential returns, but with more complexity and risk. Choosing the right one depends on your goals, investment horizon, and risk tolerance. Issuer: Annuities are offered by insurance companies; […]

A senior couple talking to a financial advisor.

Front Load vs. Back Load Annuities: Which Option is Right for You?

When planning your retirement, annuities can be an excellent way to create a steady income stream. However, not all annuities are built the same. One important choice you’ll face is front load vs back load annuity structures. Understanding the differences can help you make the best decision for your financial future. In this guide, we’ll […]

Wealth Management 101: Key Principles for Smart Financial Planning

TL;DR: Wealth management is a personalized, long-term approach to aligning your financial strategy with your goals, lifestyle, and values. It’s not just for the ultra-wealthy—anyone with complex finances or growing assets can benefit. Here’s what to know: What It Is: A holistic financial service combining investment advice, long-term planning, and lifestyle alignment. Who It’s For: […]

Senior couple meeting with a financial advisor

Annuity vs 401k: Understanding the Key Differences and Benefits

TL;DR: Both annuities and 401(k)s help fund retirement, but they serve different purposes: 401(k): What it is: Employer-sponsored retirement savings plan Pros: Pre-tax contributions, employer match, high contribution limits, tax-deferred growth Cons: Market risk, penalties for early withdrawal, Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) at age 73 Annuity: What it is: Insurance product that converts savings into […]

Older couple looking at paperwork for financial planning

What is Financial Planning? 10 Tips for Building Wealth Early

TL;DR: Financial Planning 101: A strategic approach to manage finances and meet life goals. Components: Budgeting, saving, investing, debt management, risk management, tax planning, retirement planning, and estate planning. Importance: Helps break down goals into manageable milestones and ensures preparedness for retirement. Wealth Building Tips: Includes starting to save early, creating a budget, focusing on […]

An older couple uses a laptop to plan for their retirement.

Financial Planning for Retirees: 9 Tips to Secure Your Future

TL;DR: Retirement planning has evolved, and securing your financial future requires a well-structured approach. Here are nine key strategies to help retirees manage finances effectively and protect their assets: Create a financial plan outlining income sources, assets, and expenses. Optimize Social Security benefits by timing your claim strategically. Diversify income streams with investments, rental properties, […]