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As the year winds down, it’s the perfect time to take stock of your retirement strategy and make adjustments that can set you up for long-term success. Whether you're nearing retirement or already enjoying it, these year-end planning...

As the year winds down, it’s the perfect time to revisit your retirement strategy—especially if you’re nearing retirement. This transition from saving to spending is one of the most important financial shifts you’ll make...

As your peak earning years unfold, now is the time to turn income into lasting financial momentum. The end of the year offers a strategic opportunity to review your finances and take action. Here are five key areas to focus on...

Year-end planning can help you to make deliberate, strategic moves that preserve your wealth, optimize your tax exposure, and create a lasting legacy. Whether you are preserving wealth for the future, growing your investments, or giving...

As the year comes to a close, it’s an ideal time to assess your financial situation and make adjustments for a strong transition into the next phase, especially as you approach retirement. This article will guide you through key year-end...

As the year wraps up, it’s a powerful time to check in on your retirement strategy, especially if you’re approaching your final working years or actual retirement date. This transition can be one of the most significant shifts in your...

Your peak earning years bring with them a powerful opportunity: the chance to build real financial momentum. But that momentum doesn’t come from income alone. It also comes from planning, strategic guidance, and informed decision making...

Managing wealth for high-net-worth households involves more than just focusing on investments and returns. As your estate grows, the complexity of managing it increases, requiring a broader set of strategies. Insurance and risk...

Retirement should be a time of stability, enjoyment, and freedom—but rising costs can potentially put a strain on even the most carefully planned budget. With thoughtful planning and tailored strategies, you can reduce inflation risk and...

Even the most well-planned retirement can be disrupted by unforeseen expenses. Many retirees underestimate how unpredictable certain costs can be—and how easily they can derail an otherwise sound financial strategy. Here are five...

While it may not be as exciting as investment planning or retirement strategies, insurance is a powerful and often underappreciated tool in financial planning. It functions both as a safeguard and a strategic pillar for protecting your...

In the realm of high-net-worth wealth management, traditional investment strategies alone may not suffice. As your estate grows, so does the complexity of managing it. This is where insurance and risk management come into play, offering...

Retirement should be a time of stability, enjoyment, and freedom—but rising costs can potentially put a strain on even the most carefully planned budget. With thoughtful planning and tailored strategies, you can reduce inflation risk and...

Even the most well-planned retirement can be disrupted by unforeseen expenses. Many retirees underestimate how unpredictable certain costs can be—and how easily they can derail an otherwise sound financial strategy...

Insurance is a powerful and often underappreciated tool in financial planning. It functions both as a safeguard and a strategic pillar for protecting your income, assets, and legacy goals. With a better understanding of what insurance...

While traditional wealth management tends to focus on investments and returns, planning for high-net-worth households must address a broader set of variables. From liability exposure to tax considerations and generational wealth transfer...

Retirement should be a time of stability, enjoyment, and freedom—but rising costs can potentially put a strain on even the most carefully planned budget. With thoughtful planning and tailored strategies, you can reduce inflation risk and...

Even the most well-planned retirement can be disrupted by unforeseen expenses. Many retirees underestimate how unpredictable certain costs can be—and how easily they can derail an otherwise sound financial strategy...

While it may not be as exciting or as prominent as investment planning or retirement strategies, insurance is a powerful and often an underappreciated tool in financial planning. Insurance can function both as a safeguard and a strategic...

Today’s financial landscape is filled with opportunities, but many people still believe that building wealth through investing requires a rigid, one-size-fits-all approach. In reality, investing is a deeply personal process that should...

Retirement should be a time to enjoy the fruits of years of hard work and preparation, but when it comes to Social Security, many people have more questions than answers. From figuring out the best time to claim...

Realizing you have less saved for retirement than you think you’ll need can be concerning. Despite potential setbacks like supporting children through college or managing unexpected expenses, it's never too late to take action...

At Renaissance Wealth Management, Loyalty is about more than just being reliable; it’s about building deep, long-term relationships rooted in trust, transparency, and shared commitment. We don’t see our clients as transactions or...

Building wealth in today's economy may feel like an uphill battle. Housing, utilities, and daily expenses keep climbing, making it challenging to cover essential costs and still have money left over...

Today’s financial landscape is rich with opportunities, but many still believe in following a ‘cookie-cutter’ approach to investing and building wealth. In truth, investing should be a personalized process, shaped by your goals, values...

At Renaissance Wealth Management, Intentionality means showing up when it matters most and guiding clients with care, clarity, and purpose — especially during life’s most challenging moments. When a major life event happens, clients...

When it comes to Social Security, many people have more questions than answers. By separating facts from fiction, you can make more informed decisions about your retirement planning...

Realizing you have less saved for retirement than you need or hoped for can trigger concern about the future. The good news is, there’s always time to take strategic steps forward...

Building wealth in today’s economy may feel challenging due to rising costs amid inflation. However, with intentional planning and consistent effort, you could still make meaningful progress toward your financial goals...

Making a difference is at the heart of what we do. It’s about empowering our clients to achieve their financial goals and simplifying their lives. We believe that when clients feel confident about their finances, they can truly enjoy life.

Today’s financial landscape offers a wealth of opportunities, but the misconception persists that wealth-building requires a rigid, one-size-fits-all approach to investing. In reality, investing should be a personalized process that...

Retirement should be a time to enjoy the fruits of years of hard work and preparation, but when it comes to Social Security, many people have more questions than answers. When trying to discern when to claim, how benefits are calculated...

As part of our ongoing series exploring the values that define F.A.M.I.L.Y., today we’re highlighting the “A”—Authentic. Authenticity isn’t something we just talk about. It’s something we live every day, from the way we dress to the...

Realizing you have less saved for retirement than you need or hoped for can trigger concern about the future. You want your golden years to play out a certain way—whether that’s traveling, spending more time with family, pursuing hobbies...

At Renaissance Wealth Management, our core values shape every conversation, every plan, and every decision we make. Over the next few weeks, we’re diving deeper into what each value in F.A.M.I.L.Y. means to us—and to the clients we’re...

In today’s discourse about how to build wealth, a common refrain often emerges: It’s not possible nowadays. With rising housing costs and inflation affecting everything from utility bills to daily essentials, setting aside extra savings...

At Renaissance Wealth Management, financial planning isn’t just about numbers—it’s about people. We believe that the most meaningful financial guidance comes from truly understanding our clients, their goals, and their unique journeys...

As you grow and manage your assets, you might start looking for ways to maximize returns while minimizing the taxes you owe. Tax-efficient investment strategies may help you keep more of your money and stay on track for the future you’ve...

At Renaissance Wealth Management, we pride ourselves on a unique approach to financial advising that sets us apart from many organizations in the industry. Our core philosophy revolves around teamwork and collaboration, ensuring that...

Managing income during retirement is often less straightforward than it was during working years. Instead of accumulating wealth, you’re now spending that hard-earned nest egg. By implementing effective tax strategies...

As retirement approaches, it's time to think about shifting your focus from accumulation to spending. A well-planned, tax-efficient retirement withdrawal strategy can help you make the most of your assets and set the stage for a...

Even small decisions can have a big impact on your financial situation. By understanding your cash flow and taking a tax-smart approach, you can help make your money work harder toward your long-term goals...

As you grow and manage your wealth, consider these five tax-efficient investment strategies that could help optimize returns and minimize your tax burden: Strategic account selection, tax-efficient asset utilization, capital gains...

During your golden years, you’ll likely find that managing your income looks different than it once did. By implementing effective tax strategies, you can potentially reduce your tax burden and make your hard-earned savings last longer...

As you transition into retirement, your financial focus will likely shift from building your savings to managing your spending. A tax-efficient withdrawal strategy can help you maximize your assets and enjoy a fulfilling retirement...

Financial stability often hinges on consistent, strategic decisions. By understanding your cash flow and approaching it with a tax-intelligent mindset, you can help maximize your money’s potential and move closer to long-term goals...

As you build and manage your wealth, you may find yourself seeking ways to optimize your investment returns while minimizing your tax burden. By understanding how to build a tax-efficient investment strategy, you can make an effort to...

During your golden years, you may find that managing your income isn’t as straightforward as it once was. One of the keys to enjoying this new phase of life is implementing effective tax strategies for retirement...

As you near retirement, it’s time to start thinking about the next chapter of your financial journey. After years of saving and investing, shifting from accumulation to spending can feel uncomfortable...

When it comes to managing your finances, even small decisions can make a big difference. By understanding your cash flow and approaching it with a strategic, tax-intelligent mindset, you can make your money work harder for you and move...

Are you interested in a lasting impact on causes you care about while also unlocking potential tax benefits? Charitable trusts might be the solution. These powerful financial vehicles offer a unique means to align your philanthropic and...

As you enter retirement, you may find yourself with more time on your hands and a desire to make a meaningful impact. However, your changing financial situation might affect your ability to give monetarily at the same level you once did...

As you approach retirement, you may find yourself reflecting on the legacy you'll leave behind. In addition to accumulating wealth, you might have a desire to leave a positive mark on the world...

What if you could grow your wealth while contributing to a better world? Socially responsible investing (SRI), also known as impact investing, can help position you to do just that...

Imagine creating a lasting legacy that supports the causes you care about while also unlocking potential benefits for you and your loved ones. Charitable trusts offer a unique opportunity to do both...

As you enter retirement, you may find yourself with more free time and a desire to make a meaningful impact. While your new financial situation might affect your ability to give monetarily, retirement opens up new possibilities for...

As you near retirement, you may start considering the legacy you'll leave behind. In addition to accumulating wealth, you might have a desire to positively impact the world. Sustainable investing offers a way to pursue both goals...

Imagine growing your wealth while also making a positive impact on the world. Socially responsible investing (SRI), or impact investing, allows you to achieve this by focusing on companies that prioritize environmental sustainability...

Balancing philanthropic goals with financial planning can be a complex yet rewarding endeavor. One strategy that has gained popularity among those looking to make a lasting impact, while potentially reaping tax benefits, is...

After dedicating years of your life to your career, you might be wondering what to do in retirement. At the same time, your financial situation has likely changed now that you’re retired. Considering these changes...

As you approach retirement, you may find yourself thinking about the legacy you want to leave behind. For many, this isn't just about passing wealth on to loved ones—it's about positively impacting the world around them...

Imagine not only growing your wealth but also contributing to a healthier planet, promoting social justice, and encouraging ethical business practices. It might not be a concept you’ve explored, but it’s entirely possible—and...

Most people view retirement as a new stage of life, which, for most people, is only partly true. Your retirement years might actually look like three distinct stages, instead of one. These stages are largely dependent on your health and...

You know the importance of saving for retirement. But what is the best way to do it? Is it just a matter of hoarding money in a separate savings account? Or should you rely on a workplace or state pension plan?...

Most people have at least heard of two prevalent types of retirement plans: the 401(k) and the IRA. Deciding which is appropriate for you, however, is another story. Having a basic understanding of these two types of retirement accounts...

Estate planning, or legacy planning, can play a critical role in your ability to save for and shape your family’s financial future. While most people think of estate planning as something to be addressed later in life, in truth, estate...

Most people view retirement as a new stage of life, which, for most people, is only partly true. Your retirement years might actually look like three distinct stages, instead of one. These stages are largely dependent on your health and...

The journey to and throughout retirement requires planning and strategy. Here are six powerful tax and investment strategies you can leverage to help you save and pursue your goals for retirement...

This is an age-old question clients ask all the time. Let’s help settle this debate by explaining and comparing two of the most popular ways to save for retirement—the 401(k) plan and the IRA (Individual Retirement Account)...

Estate or legacy planning is a vital way to help you plan for your family’s future. It involves two steps: Making legally effective arrangements to preserve your wealth and employing effective strategies for transferring your wealth...

Beginning this month, France will welcome nearly 15,000 of the world’s most accomplished athletes to Paris to compete in the 2024 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games, which will be held from July through September...

For investors nearing retirement, catch-up contributions can potentially make the difference between an uncertain financial future and a comfortable retirement. What are catch-up contributions? Catch-up contributions are the additional...

In the middle of all your exciting plans for retirement, one further task is planning your estate with your family. Start to think about how best to engage with your kids in discussions concerning your financial legacy...

You've built a solid foundation for wealth and are moving closer to retirement. Your kids are adults with financial pressures and goals of their own, and your parents, if living, are advanced in their years...

If you find yourself simultaneously raising your own children while tending to your parents as they grow older, you’re not alone. Often aptly referred to as “the sandwich generation,” it’s at this unique stage that you're sandwiched...

Throughout previous stages of life, you might have become accustomed to keeping your financial matters fairly close to the chest. Now, however, would be a good time to start involving your family as you develop and effectuate your estate...

Don't Delay An Important Discussion

Craig McCormick, CPA, CFP®

Monday, May 20, 2024

Now that you’re approaching retirement, your kids are most likely all grown, with financial plans and pressures of their own. This might make you reluctant to burden them with more information and decisions...

Are You the “Sandwich Generation?"

Craig McCormick, CPA, CFP®

Wednesday, May 8, 2024

Without knowing it, you may be part of the so-called "sandwich generation." These are people who find themselves at the life stage in which they are caught between raising their own kids while watching their parents grow older...

Get real....in our New Financial World!

Jeff Secord, CFP®, CAP®

Friday, July 8, 2022

Get real…in our new financial world! “You can’t handle the truth. You want me on that wall!” Jack Nicholson A Few Good Men Inflation. War. Higher interest payments. Higher tax payments. Lower...

Portfolio Rebalancing

Jeff Secord, CFP®, CAP®

Monday, July 19, 2021

Portfolio Rebalancing Portfolio rebalancing is the process of adjusting a portfolio allocation back to a pre-determined asset allocation. For example, let’s assume you and your advisor have determined you are best suited for a...

RWM 2021 1st Quarter Commentary & Update

Jeff Secord, CFP®, CAP®

Thursday, January 14, 2021

Asset Management 2020 was a dramatic year of recovery from the depths of the COVID-19 declines in March. Political drama is somewhat behind us but the market may express some volatility around new administration policies, increasing...

RWM 2020 4th Quarter Commentary & Update

Jeff Secord, CFP®, CAP®

Tuesday, October 27, 2020

Asset Management Market returns are now positive for the year, but, with dramatic differences between sectors and different types of individual securities. We suspect the stock market will go through periods of volatility, (especially...

The Bucket Theory: A Smart Way to Manage Cash Flows

Jeff Secord, CFP®, CAP®

Tuesday, September 1, 2020

If you are currently, or up to 3-5 years away from, withdrawing your retirement savings, the time-based bucket theory may be a good fit for you. As you shift from wealth accumulation to wealth distribution, you need a strategic plan to...

RWM 2020 2nd Quarter Commentary & Update

Jeff Secord, CFP®, CAP®

Sunday, July 12, 2020

Asset Management Financial markets have recovered surprisingly well from the depths of the Bear Market in March. However, all stock market indexes except NADAQ are still in negative territory year-to-date. We suspect the stock market...

Your Tax Return, The Key to After-Tax Wealth

Jeff Secord, CFP®, CAP®

Wednesday, July 1, 2020

What is your biggest budget expense item? For most of our clients the answer is…Income Tax! What can we do about it? - Plan ahead! The best time to start income tax planning is when you have last year’s completed return....

Tax Loss Harvesting...Why?...How?

Jeff Secord, CFP®, CAP®

Tuesday, April 14, 2020

Why do we worry about paying too much income tax? For many, taxes are our largest expense! It seems like there are two ways to approach tax-planning: Do nothing. Send in your numbers. Pay your tax Proactively plan. Try to get an edge...

The coronavirus pandemic has affected virtually every facet of American life and severely impacted the markets and economy. Congress and the federal government have acted to help individuals and businesses get through this difficult...

Economic and Financial Commentary: April 2020 Given the fluctuations in the global markets over the last month we thought it would be helpful to remind everyone the principles behind investing and the iterative process that we work...

Your Credit Report Your credit report contains information about your past and present credit transactions. It's used primarily by potential lenders to evaluate your creditworthiness. So if you're about to apply for credit, especially...

You know how important it is to plan for your retirement, but where do you begin? One of your first steps should be to estimate how much income you'll need to fund your retirement. That's not as easy as it sounds, because retirement...

With age comes responsibility, so if you're a young adult in your 20s or 30s, chances are you've been introduced to the realities of adulthood. While you’re excited by all the opportunities life has to offer, you’re also...

Answer: To figure out your net worth, add up the current value of all of your assets, then add up the current amount of all of your liabilities. Subtract your total liabilities from your total assets. The amount you end up with is your...

It's almost impossible to overstate the importance of taking the time to plan your estate. Nevertheless, it's surprising how many American adults haven't done so. You might think that those who are rich and famous would be way ahead of...

Is your financial house in order? The end of the year is approaching and it's a great time to take steps that can help improve your personal finances. Some items to consider: If you're not retired, review your contributions to...

It's hard to talk about college without mentioning financial aid. Yet this pairing isn't a marriage of love, but one of necessity. In many cases, financial aid may be the deciding factor in whether your child attends the college of his...

Teach Your Children Well: Basic Financial Education Even before your children can count, they already know something about money: it's what you have to give the ice cream man to get a cone, or put in the slot to ride the rocket ship...

Women Moving Forward Financially after the Loss of a Spouse The loss of a spouse can be a devastating, life-changing event. Due to longer life expectancies, women are more likely to face this situation. Becoming a widow at any age can...

When we discuss base lifestyle spending assumptions with clients, most people take a stab at coming up with a number, but there is a wide degree of error and inconsistency. My recommendation is to become aware of what you spend by...

Your contributions to your employer-sponsored retirement savings plan may still enable you to open or contribute to either a Roth or traditional individual retirement account (IRA). However, your (or your spouse’s) participation...

Housing Options for Older Individuals: As you grow older, your housing needs may change. Maybe you'll get tired of doing yardwork. You might want to retire in sunny Florida or live close to your grandchildren in Illinois. Perhaps...

If you are currently, or up to 3-5 years away from, withdrawing your retirement savings, the time-based bucket theory may be a good fit for you. As you shift from wealth accumulation to wealth distribution, you need a strategic plan to...

Yes, you can make a direct or 60-day rollover from a 401(k)plan [or other qualified plan, 403(b) plan, or governmental 457(b) plan] to a Roth IRA, as long as you meet certain requirements.* First, you must be entitled to a distribution...

It's a vicious cycle: Money is one of the greatest causes of stress, prolonged stress can lead to serious health issues, and health issues often result in yet more financial struggles.¹ The clear connection between health and...

Do you have a child between the ages of 6-13? Read on for the facts to learn more about where money comes from, how to earn it, how to make it grow – and how to save for the things you want today or for bigger items in the future...

At any age, health care is a priority. But when you retire, you should probably focus more on health care than ever before. This is especially true for women. For adults aged 65 and over, and for adults aged 65-74 and 75-84, women were...

Would you rather have weak hands or strong hands? Most people would answer strong hands. Why would I want hands that had issues functioning and were weak? I couldn’t open doors, or type or cook! This analogy has been used in the...