Retirement Planning
Retirement Milestones by Age: 50 to 75
Here’s every retirement milestone mapped to the exact birthday: catch-up contributions, the Rule of 55, Medicare, Social Security, and RMDs.
Articles by Mike Pappis
Retirement Savings and Investments
A Guide to Managing Sudden Wealth: Key Financial Considerations
Inheriting money? Won the lottery? Here is what you need to know for long-term financial security after experiencing a sudden wealth event.
Retirement Savings and Investments
Mutual Fund Fees Explained: Hidden Costs & What to Avoid
Hidden mutual fund fees can cost you thousands over time. Learn every expense ratio, sales load, and 12b-1 fee, and how to minimize them.
Taxes
Tax Season Checklist: 10 Things to Review for 2025
Are you “lucky” enough to have to worry about #3? Did you remember #5? Explore all 10 tips on this tax season checklist.
Planning
Financial Jargon: 15 Terms to Know for Your Plan
Here are a few commonly misunderstood financial terms across investments, taxes, insurance, retirement, and estate planning.
Retirement Planning
Boost Retirement Savings: 12 Ways While You're Working
Consider all the strategies for maximizing saving opportunities while you are working.
Taxes
The Overlooked Role of Tax Deductions in Roth Conversion Planning
Learn how deductions affect Roth conversions and when income can be converted without triggering federal tax. Tips for smarter Roth planning.
Taxes
Timing Roth Conversions: Should You Convert at the Start of the Year? End? Or, Spread Them Out?
Learn the pros and cons of different Roth conversion timing strategies and how to choose the right approach for your retirement plan.
Planning
Financial Resolutions: Set Goals for 2026 and Beyond
Set financial goals and resolutions for 2026. Here are 28 things to consider to set yourself up for a secure and happy future.
Planning
Pros and Cons of Inheriting a House: A Guide for Heirs
Explore some of the issues around the family home and how it works as an inheritance.
Social Security
Social Security Spousal Benefits: How to Get the Most
As you approach retirement, understanding spousal benefits can empower both you and your partner to make well-informed decisions.
Retirement Savings and Investments
Asset Location: How Tax-Smart Investing Helps Your Portfolio
Asset location is an important concept if you are trying to save and build wealth. Explore ways to locate funds to minimize taxes.
Retirement Planning
7 Questions to Ask Before Retirement (Beyond Savings)
Being prepared for retirement means a lot more than having adequate savings. Here are 7 questions to ask yourself.
Financial Wellness
Financial Spring Cleaning: 10 Ways to Spruce Up Your Finances
Take a look at 10 things to do now for a financial “spring cleaning.” Ensure your financial plan is on track for the new season.
Retirement Savings and Investments
Passive Investing: 6 Advantages to the Hands-Off Approach
When it comes to managing investments, there are two main philosophies: active investing and passive investing. You may be thinking, “Why opt for a passive inve…
Retirement Savings and Investments
Low Cost Investing: 7 Ways to Slash Your Investment Expenses
Investment costs can be easily reduced without compromising returns. Follow these low cost investing guidelines.
Your Career
Restricted Stock Units: Terms, Taxes, and Tips
Learn about the value of restricted stock units and how to use this compensation to your financial advantage.
Taxes
Tax Strategies and Lingo Made Simple: A Useful Guide
Gain valuable insights into common tax terms and some of the most popular strategies for reducing what you pay.
Estate Planning
Revisiting Your Estate Plan: Ensuring Your Wishes are Fulfilled
Revisit your estate values and plans annually to make sure everything is up to date and to ensure your long term wishes are fulfilled.
Taxes
AGI (Adjusted Gross Income): The Tax Acronym You Can’t Ignore
Gaining insight into your Adjusted Gross Income can pave the way for a prosperous and tax-smart financial future.
Retirement Savings and Investments
9 Essential Considerations for a Holistic Investment Strategy
Explore 9 important considerations when it comes to establishing, tracking, and managing a holistic investment strategy.
