Blog

Gold's Hidden Costs: Taxes, Volatility, and More

In times of economic uncertainty, you’ll often hear the same refrain from market prognosticators: "Buy gold." For millennia, gold has been promoted as the ultimate "safe-haven" asset, a timeless store of value that can protect you from inflation and market turmoil. However, there are some hidden costs that should be considered.

How Much is Too Much Cash?

The Federal Reserve held interest rates steady in their July 30th meeting, but signs point to a possible rate cut as early as September. As expectations shift, one question becomes increasingly relevant: what should you do with excess cash sitting on the sidelines?

What the “One Big Beautiful Bill” Means for Your Financial Plan

The recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) overhauls several parts of the tax code and while some headlines focus on politics, there are real planning opportunities buried in the details. Whether you're retired, still working, or thinking about legacy planning, these changes may impact your strategy.

ACA Health Insurance: A Smart Bridge to Medicare

Health insurance is one of the biggest financial planning challenges for people not covered by an employer plan. Whether you're early-retired, self-employed, or in a gap between jobs, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace can be a powerful — and surprisingly affordable — solution. Let’s break down how it works, who benefits most, and how smart planning can make it even more cost-effective.

HSA vs. FSA: What’s the Difference and Which Is Right for You?

When it comes to managing healthcare expenses and saving on taxes, two popular tools often come up: Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). While they may sound similar, these accounts have key differences that can impact your financial strategy, especially when it comes to healthcare planning. In this post, we’ll break down how HSAs and FSAs work, their respective pros and cons, and how to decide which one might be right for you.

The Military COLA Trap: Why when you retire matters!

When planning for military retirement, many service members focus on factors like years of service, rank, and immediate post-retirement opportunities. However, an often-overlooked aspect—the timing of your retirement date—can have a lasting impact on your financial well-being due to the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) Trap.