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Fiduciary

We provide the highest level of care and accountability. Everything we do must be in your best interest.

Complete Transparency

No magic tricks or distractions. Everything we do is transparent. Log into our online system to see your accounts any time, from any device, no matter where you may be.

Experienced

We have been serving client needs for over 30 years which means we probably have experience in situations like yours.

Local & Available

We are not a large institution. We are your neighbors who happen to offer financial expertise. When you call, we answer. When you need someone, we are here.

Different People. Unique Needs

Some people need help accumulating and growing wealth. Others need assistance with the responsibilities wealth creates. No matter your money issues, we will help you find the solutions which best fit

Retire Confident

Retirement is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but we have helped people retire comfortably and confidently for over 30 years. We can help you too.

Get Comfortable

We provide a safe and relaxed environment where you can be comfortable with your money.

The media provides exposure, not advice

In this age of information overload, there are an over-whelming number of financial opinions. We help you focus on your specific financial goals by using our experience and knowledge as a filter to cut through the constant noise and chatter.

You are not your neighbor

There is no magic formula that works for everyone. We have the knowledge, experience and tools to help you plan and achieve your goals.

Independence brings freedom

Our “product” is our guidance and advice, not specific investments. We are neutral and transparent when selecting the solutions necessary to implement your plan.

Simplicity

It is our job to explain your money in simple and straight-forward terms, not to impress you with jargon and investment “speak”. You can never ask too many questions. 

It is a journey,
not a destination

No matter what your stage of life and career, we can help you. As you change and grow, we adjust so your plan continues to fit your needs.

It takes two to tango

We provide the know-how; you provide direction and guidance. 

Wealth is not determined by money

Wealth is determined by love, happiness, and relationships. The number of dollars in your account does not make you more or less than anyone else.

Putting it all together

All the parts of your life are connected. Getting to know you goes beyond your finances. We want to know your values, hopes, and dreams so your success is not purely financial. A life measured only in dollars can never be rich. 

Investing, not trading

It is not flashy, but the long term outlook has stood the test of time. We seek to capitalize on this trend through patience and discipline rather than guessing when to zig and when to zag.

Blog Posts
 

2012: The Beginning of the End

It is October, fourth quarter, the beginning of the end of the year. Are you ready?

Here is what you should consider:

Investments

  • Clarify your investment goals and expectations
  • Revisit income and savings objectives
  • Review asset allocation

Taxes

  • Review sales of appreciated property including real estate, a business, or artwork
  • Collect cost-basis information on securities sold
  • Tax harvesting: maximize tax advantages by reviewing realized and unrealized gains and losses
  • Plan charitable contributions
  • Check loss carry-forwards from 2011
  • Identify transactions that could improve your tax position
  • Maximize income in 2012; unless Congress acts tax rates may be significantly higher in 2013
  • Project year-end tax refund or payments due
  • Claim potential tax deductions or credits before year-end

Retirement

  • Analyze potential Roth IRA conversion scenarios
  • Maximize IRA / 401(k) contributions including catch-up provisions
  • Explore self-employed retirement plan options
  • Take required minimum distributions from IRA's
  • Plan overall retirement income strategy

Insurance

  • Identify material changes in life, business, or financial circumstances that might require adjustments in coverage
  • Shop life insurance, health insurance, and property & casualty coverage to see if current plans are cost competitive

Health

  • Maximize contributions to Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Review medical insurance deductible. If not met, consider postponing non-essential medical care until 2013. If met, consider the opposite
  • Spend remaining amounts in Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Take advantage of the Medicare Supplement open enrollment period

Milestone Ages

  • Age 50: Now you can make catch-up contributions to IRA's and some qualified retirement plans
  • Age 55: If retired, you may be able to take distributions from 401(k) plans without penalty
  • Age 59 ½: You can take distributions from retirement plans without penalty
  • Ages 62 – 70: You can apply for Social Security benefits
  • Age 65: You can apply for Medicare
  • Age 70 ½: You must begin taking Required Minimum Distributions (RMD's) from IRA's

Family

  • Consider contributions to education accounts
  • Reduce estate value by making tax-free gifts to family members
  • Review and fund trusts

Significant Changes

  • Did you move?
  • Did you transfer any financial assets?
  • Did you refinance a mortgage?
  • Did your employment or income change?
  • Has there been a change in marital status?
  • Did your family grow through birth or adoption?
  • Was there a death in the family?
  • Do you have a parent or other family member in need of assisted living?
  • Is there a severe illness in the family?
  • Did you receive a gift or inheritance?

If you have any questions or concerns, we would be happy to discuss possible outcomes for 2012 and 2013. Call 515-255-3354 or send an email to schedule a review.

Photo New Years Eve by conwil