A “robo-advisor” is an online technology that provides automated financial services. Pioneered by Betterment in 2010, they have increased in popularity over the past decade with dozens of companies offering these services today. So when does it make sense to hire a financial planner or utilize a robo-advisor? The first question to ask yourself is […]
About Matt Elliott, CFP®, CSLP®
What to Do With Your Stimulus and Tax Return Checks
In addition to the cash infusion many people see this time of year from a tax refund, we are also in the middle of the latest round of stimulus checks being deposited. If you’re still unclear on your stimulus eligibility, find out if you can expect a payment on the IRS official website. Verified that you […]
Retirement Readiness Checklist
When and how to retire may be one the largest financial decision you will make. This generates many new financial questions you may not have dealt with before: Where will my income come from? Have I saved enough? When should I draw Social Security? What should I do with my pension and retirement accounts? How […]
What is Going on With GameStop
I typically don’t comment on short term market fluctuations or individual stocks. Given all the chaos with GameStop (GME) stock this week, I felt it is a good time for a reminder why. What is going on with GameStop Like you, I have seen and read countless news stories about GameStop recently. I haven’t seen […]
Guide to Get Your Finances Organized for 2021
You need to get your finances organized for two people: 1. For yourself. Not feeling in control of your finances can lead to stress and anxiety. It is impossible to make informed financial choices without first understanding where you are. You deserve the peace of mind that comes with knowing you are taking steps to […]
Are Target Date Retirement Funds Right for Me?
What is a target date fund? A target date fund is an investment that is designed to provide a reasonable risk/return trade off given the year you plan to begin withdrawing from the fund. It is a “fund of funds”, which means it is a mutual fund that owns other mutual funds. The idea is […]
Achieve Financial Freedom in 5 Steps
Financial independence isn’t created overnight. Have patience and take these steps 1 at a time. If you stay focused on improving your financial situation one step at a time, you will eventually achieve life’s greatest financial goal – financial freedom. To find out how you’re doing, take the short quiz below and get customized tips […]
Do You Have Enough in Your Emergency Fund?
What is an emergency fund? Your emergency fund is the amount of cash you have in a safe place to cover an unexpected expense (such as a car repair) or event (such as a layoff). You should always aim to keep the money in this account untouched unless an unforeseen event occurs. Why is it […]
Best Diaper Deal 2020: Target vs. Amazon
In honor of our first child being born this month, I decided to take a break from my typical finance topics to explore something new: Diapers. While I have experience with financial planning, I am brand new to being a Dad (and the financial challenges that come with it). Will we switch from Pampers to […]
What to Look for in a Financial Advisor
Going into an initial meeting with a financial advisor for the first time can feel a bit like stepping into a cage fight. Your guard is up, but your opponent is a seasoned veteran that does this every day. How do you prepare when the person across from you is highly trained and you may […]
