Insights & Resources

Sequence of Returns Risk: Why the First Five Years of Retirement Matter Most

A bad first five years of retirement can sink a plan that looks fine on paper. How to manage sequence of returns risk in the fragile decade.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® September 2026

Retirement Planning

Retirement Is a Life Plan, Not Just a Financial Plan

Retirement on the Emerald Coast is more than a 401(k). Identity, purpose, and social connection — the blind spots that derail Northwest Florida retirees.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® April 2026

Estate Planning

The Estate Plan Reset: Why the $15 Million Exemption Changes Everything (and Nothing)

The 2026 federal estate exemption is now $15M. Why the headline matters less than you think — and what actually deserves your estate plan attention now.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® April 2026

Special Needs Planning

ABLE Account vs. Special Needs Trust: When to Use Each (and When to Use Both)

Compare ABLE accounts and special needs trusts: contribution limits, tax treatment, Medicaid payback, housing rules, and when families should use both together.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP®, CEPA®, ChSNC® April 2026

Financial Planning

Rethinking Life Insurance

Permanent life insurance is the right answer to a specific set of problems. Learn when whole life and universal life make sense, and when term plus investing.

Elliot Klein March 2026

Risk Management

El Nino and the 2026 Hurricane Season: What It Means for Your Financial Plan

El Nino is likely developing for the 2026 hurricane season. Here is what it means for your insurance, emergency liquidity, and property decisions along the.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Special Needs Planning

When Your Child Turns 18: What Special Needs Families Need to Know

SSI redetermination, guardianship, ABLE accounts, Medicaid waivers, and estate planning when your child with disabilities turns 18.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP®, CEPA®, ChSNC® March 2026

Special Needs Planning

Special Needs Financial Planning: A Complete Guide for Families

A comprehensive guide to special needs financial planning: trusts, ABLE accounts, government benefits, guardianship, housing, and Florida-specific resources.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP®, CEPA®, ChSNC® March 2026

Veterans & Military

G Fund (TSP): What It Is, How It Works, and When It Makes Sense

The G Fund is unlike any other bond option in the TSP. Understand how the yield formula works, what the 2022 rate environment revealed, and when to use it.

Elliot Klein March 2026

Financial Planning

Fee-Only Financial Advisor: What It Means, Why It Matters, and How to Choose One

What fee-only really means, how advisors get paid, what comprehensive planning includes, and how to evaluate a fiduciary advisor. Destin and Emerald Coast.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP®, CEPA®, ChSNC® March 2026

Veterans & Military

When Should Veterans Actually Use Their VA Home Loan?

Most VA loan advice covers eligibility. This covers timing. Why waiting to use your VA home loan during a career transition can capture significantly more.

Elliot Klein March 2026

Retirement Planning

Retirement Income Planning in Destin and 30A: Building a Paycheck From Your Portfolio

Retirement income planning for Destin and 30A families. Coordinate withdrawals, Social Security, taxes, Medicare, and cash reserves into a durable paycheck.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP, CEPA, ChSNC March 2026

Business Planning & Exits

Business Exit Planning: What Most Owners Get Wrong and How to Fix It

A practical business exit planning guide covering the 3-5 year timeline, deal tax strategies, personal financial readiness, and post-sale planning most.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP®, CEPA®, ChSNC® March 2026

Retirement Planning

Tax-Centric Retirement Planning in Florida: Roth Conversions, IRMAA, and Withdrawal Strategy

Florida retirees still face federal tax coordination challenges. Learn how to integrate Roth conversions, IRMAA thresholds, QCDs, and withdrawal sequencing.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Financial Planning

After Loss, Toward Clarity: A Financial Guide for Surviving Spouses Over 60

Comprehensive guide for surviving spouses over 60. Navigate tax changes, Social Security survivor benefits, estate planning, investment decisions, and.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP®, CEPA®, ChSNC® March 2026

Financial Planning

Moving to Florida: The Financial Planning Guide Most People Wish They Had Read First

Planning a move to Florida? This comprehensive guide covers taxes, residency, domicile, insurance, retirement income, estate planning, and the financial.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP, CEPA, ChSNC March 2026

Retirement Planning

Your Complete Guide to 401(k) Rollovers to an IRA

Learn how 401(k) rollovers to an IRA work, compare your four main alternatives, and avoid the withholding, timing, and tax traps that catch people off guard.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Special Needs Planning

529-to-ABLE Rollovers: How to Repurpose College Savings for a Disabled Family Member

529-to-ABLE rollovers let families redirect college savings for disability expenses tax-free. Learn 2026 rules, annual limits, and planning strategies.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Business Planning & Exits

Diversifying Wealth After a Business Sale

3 in 4 owners report regret within a year of selling. Here's how to diversify wealth after a business sale without the most common post-liquidity mistakes.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Estate Planning

Estate Planning for Retired Military Families and Surviving Spouses

Estate planning for retired military families requires more than a will. Documents, beneficiaries, survivor planning, and family coordination all need to fit.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP, CEPA, ChSNC March 2026

Business Planning & Exits

The FamilyVest Guide to Financial Planning for Business Owners

A planning-first guide for business owners on cash flow, owner compensation, retirement plans, valuation, exit readiness, and long-term wealth stewardship.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Retirement Planning

Finding Your Beach: Financial Planning for Life After Military Service

Use wealth intentionally after military service. This planning-first guide helps veteran families think through purpose, pace, spending, home decisions, and.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP, CEPA, ChSNC March 2026

Estate Planning

Gifting, Philanthropy, and Legacy Planning for Veterans and Military Retirees

Plan gifts, charitable giving, donor-advised funds, QCDs, and family legacy decisions with a thoughtful framework for affluent veteran families.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP, CEPA, ChSNC March 2026

Financial Planning

How Military Families Can Help Adult Children Without Breaking Retirement

Support adult children thoughtfully without derailing retirement, survivor security, or future flexibility. A planning-first guide for veteran families.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP, CEPA, ChSNC March 2026

Special Needs Planning

Housing Options for Adults with Disabilities: A Financial Planning Guide

Housing for adults with disabilities: family home, supported living, group homes, and more. How each option affects SSI, Medicaid, and financial planning.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Business Planning & Exits

How Business Owners Should Coordinate Tax, Estate, and Investment Planning

Business owners often have great specialists but no coordinated plan. Here's how to connect tax, estate, investment, and risk planning into one clear framework.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Retirement Planning

How to Build a Retirement Paycheck

Learn how to structure Social Security, pensions, and portfolio withdrawals into a retirement paycheck that handles taxes, inflation, and rough markets.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Special Needs Planning

How to Choose a Trustee for Your Special Needs Trust

How to choose a trustee for your special needs trust. Compare family, professional, and co-trustee options with key evaluation criteria and red flags.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Retirement Planning

How to Claim Social Security Strategically

Learn how to evaluate Social Security timing for singles and couples, including survivor planning, portfolio withdrawal strategy, and tax coordination.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Business Planning & Exits

How to Construct a Successful Exit Strategy for Your Business

A business exit starts with clarity, not a buyer. Here's how to build an exit strategy around your goals, timeline, tax picture, and life after the sale.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Business Planning & Exits

How to Increase the Value of Your Business Before a Sale

Value growth before a sale is mostly risk reduction in disguise. Here's how owners can improve transferability, management depth, and buyer confidence.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Business Planning & Exits

Key Person Insurance and Buy-Sell Planning

Key person insurance and buy-sell agreements protect what happens to the business if a transition comes before you're ready. Here's what owners need to know.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Special Needs Planning

Medicaid, DD Waivers, and the Waitlist: What Florida Families Need to Know

Florida Medicaid and DD waiver guide for special needs families. Covers eligibility, the iBudget waitlist, benefit coordination, and estate recovery.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Retirement Planning

Do You Still Need Medicare If Working at 65?

Learn when Medicare enrollment at 65 can be delayed, when it can backfire, and how employer coverage, COBRA, retiree coverage, and HSAs change the answer.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Retirement Planning

Medicare IRMAA Surcharges Explained

See how IRMAA works, which income counts, the 2026 premium tiers, and how Roth conversions, RMDs, and capital gains can affect Medicare Part B and D costs.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Estate Planning

How Trusts Fit Into a Military Family Financial Plan

Trust planning for military families means coordinating estate documents, beneficiary designations, survivor goals, and family realities into one coherent.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP, CEPA, ChSNC March 2026

Retirement Planning

Military Retirement & Family Wealth Planning: A FamilyVest Guide

Explore military retirement and family wealth planning for affluent veteran families, from DFAS pension decisions and TSP strategy to trusts, survivor.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP, CEPA, ChSNC March 2026

Retirement Planning

Military Survivor Planning: SBP, DIC, and the First Decisions After Loss

Understand SBP, DIC, Social Security survivor benefits, taxes, and the first financial decisions after loss in affluent military families.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP, CEPA, ChSNC March 2026

Business Planning & Exits

Owner Compensation: Salary, Distributions, and Tax Tradeoffs

Owner compensation affects taxes, retirement plans, and personal cash flow. Here's how to design pay that serves the whole plan, not just the current tax line.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Business Planning & Exits

Personal Financial Planning Before You Sell Your Business

Most owners prepare the business for a sale but not themselves. Here's the personal financial planning that should happen before the process starts moving fast.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Financial Planning

Planning for Aging Parents and Adult Children at the Same Time

A planning guide for families caring for aging parents while still helping adult children, with structure for roles, cash flow, and boundaries.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP, CEPA, ChSNC March 2026

Business Planning & Exits

Preparing Your Business for Sale: A Financial Checklist

A financial checklist for business owners preparing for a sale — from clean financials and owner compensation to personal planning and diligence prep.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Retirement Planning

Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) Explained

Understand required minimum distributions, RMD timing rules, calculation basics, penalties, and how RMDs affect retirement taxes and Medicare premiums.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Veterans & Military

How Retired Military Families Should Coordinate Pension, TSP, Cash Flow, and Taxes

How to coordinate military pension, TSP, Roth strategy, VA disability, Social Security, and taxes — a planning framework for affluent veteran families.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Retirement Planning

The FamilyVest Guide to Retirement & Distribution Planning

Retirement planning is a coordination problem. This guide covers income design, taxes, Social Security, Medicare, withdrawal strategy, and estate decisions.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Business Planning & Exits

Retirement Plans for Business Owners

Retirement plans for business owners should fit the company, not just minimize taxes. Here's how to match the right structure to your stage and goals.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Veterans & Military

Retiring to Something: Designing the Next Chapter After Military Service

Design the next chapter after military service with a planning-first framework for purpose, work optionality, family alignment, spending, and relocation.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Retirement Planning

Retiring to Something: Designing the Next Chapter Before You Leave Work

Plan retirement as a life transition, not just a portfolio event. Clarify lifestyle, spending, Social Security, taxes, housing, and purpose.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP, CEPA, ChSNC March 2026

Insurance Planning

Risk Management for Affluent Families: Insurance, Liability, and Asset Protection

A practical guide to risk management for affluent families covering insurance, umbrellas, liability, cyber risk, fraud, and asset protection.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP, CEPA, ChSNC March 2026

Retirement Planning

Roth Conversion Strategies in Retirement

See when Roth conversions can reduce long-term tax drag in retirement and how to weigh future taxes, IRMAA, required distributions, and cash-flow needs.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Veterans & Military

Sandwich Generation Planning for Military Families: Aging Parents and Adult Children

Military families supporting aging parents and adult children need a coordinated plan for caregiving, cash flow, housing, documents, and long-term care risk.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Veterans & Military

Should You Buy a Second Home After Military Retirement? A Planning Framework

Thinking about a second home after military retirement? Use this planning framework to evaluate cash flow, taxes, insurance, domicile, and long-term fit.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Special Needs Planning

The SECURE Act Exception: How Disabled Beneficiaries Can Still Stretch an Inherited IRA

Disabled beneficiaries can stretch inherited IRAs for life under the SECURE Act. Learn the EDB exception, conduit vs. accumulation trusts, and tax strategy.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Retirement Planning

Self-Employed Retirement Options

Compare SEP IRAs, solo 401(k)s, SIMPLE IRAs, and defined benefit plans with contribution limits and the planning factors that actually determine the right fit.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Retirement Planning

Sequence of Returns Risk Explained

Learn what sequence of returns risk is, why it matters most in early retirement, and how better income design and withdrawal strategy can reduce the damage.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Financial Planning

Should You Buy a Second Home? A Planning Framework for Affluent Families

Thinking about a second home? Use this planning framework to weigh cash flow, taxes, insurance, family dynamics, and long-term optionality.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP, CEPA, ChSNC March 2026

Retirement Planning

Tax-Efficient Retirement Income Strategies

See how withdrawal order, Roth conversions, QCDs, and bracket management can reduce tax drag and improve after-tax retirement income year after year.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Special Needs Planning

Tax Strategies for Special Needs Families: What Most Advisors Miss

Tax strategies for special needs families: ABLE accounts, trust taxation, medical deductions, and how to coordinate tax planning with benefit preservation.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Business Planning & Exits

Tax Strategies When Selling a Business

The after-tax outcome of a sale can differ dramatically from the headline price. Here's how structure, timing, and coordinated planning protect the net.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Business Planning & Exits

What Is Your Business Really Worth?

95% of M&A professionals say unrealistic owner valuations are the biggest obstacle to a sale. Here's how to understand what your business is actually worth.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Retirement Planning

Which Accounts Should You Spend First in Retirement?

Withdrawal order affects taxes, Medicare premiums, RMDs, and long-term flexibility. Here is how to choose which accounts to spend first in retirement.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Special Needs Planning

8 Financial Planning Concerns for Families with Special Needs

Special needs financial planning concerns: benefit preservation, special needs trusts, beneficiary designations, life insurance, ABLE accounts, guardianship,.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP®, CEPA®, ChSNC® March 2026

Special Needs Planning

Guardianship and Alternatives: Making the Right Decision for Your Adult Child with a Disability

Guardianship, guardian advocacy, supported decision-making, power of attorney, and healthcare surrogates for adults with disabilities in Florida.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP®, CEPA®, ChSNC® March 2026

Special Needs Planning

Legal Considerations of Special Needs Planning: What Families Need to Know

Special needs trusts, estate plan coordination, beneficiary designations, SECURE Act stretch IRA exception, life insurance funding, and the letter of intent.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP®, CEPA®, ChSNC® March 2026

Special Needs Planning

Special Needs Planning: 4 Financial Mistakes That Can Cost Your Family Everything

The four most costly special needs financial planning mistakes: wrong beneficiary designations, no special needs trust, improper trust distributions, and.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP®, CEPA®, ChSNC® March 2026

Special Needs Planning

When Your Special Needs Child Turns 18: A Financial Planning Checklist

At 18, parents lose legal authority over a disabled child. SSI eligibility changes, school services end, and guardianship decisions become urgent.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP®, CEPA®, ChSNC® March 2026

Special Needs Planning

ABLE Accounts Just Changed Everything: What the Age Expansion to 46 Means for Your Family

The ABLE age-of-onset threshold expanded from 26 to 46 in 2026. Who qualifies now, updated limits, and how ABLE fits with special needs trusts.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2026

Special Needs Planning

Special Needs Trusts Explained: Third-Party, First-Party, and Pooled

Special needs trusts protect benefits eligibility. Learn how third-party, first-party, and pooled trusts work, when to use each, and costly mistakes to avoid.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP, CEPA, ChSNC March 2026

Financial Planning

AI Scams Are Coming for Your Family's Money: 5 Things to Do This Month

AI-powered financial fraud tripled in 2025 and is accelerating. Here are five practical steps families can take right now to protect their wealth from voice.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP®, CEPA®, ChSNC® March 2026

Estate Planning

Why is an Estate Plan So Important?

Many may wonder why is an estate plan so important? Here we discuss some of the pitfalls of not having one and the benefits of having one.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® June 2024

Tax Planning

Qualified Charitable Distributions: How to Garner Tax Savings

Even with the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, you may find tax savings on charitable gifts through Qualified Charitable Distributions or QCDs.

FamilyVest March 2024

Investment Strategy

Have That End-of-Year Conversation With Your Financial Advisor

It's wise to have that end-of-year conversation with your financial advisor so you dodge pitfalls and take advantage of all opportunities.

FamilyVest December 2023

Retirement Planning

Do You Need to Enroll in Medicare if You're Still Working at Age 65?

Still working at 65? You can delay Medicare if covered by a qualifying employer plan. Miss the window and you'll pay a permanent Part B penalty.

FamilyVest September 2023

Special Needs Planning

How To Create a Successful Caregiving Plan

Caring for an aging parent or relative can be a challenge, but taking the time to create a successful caregiving plan can help.

FamilyVest July 2023

Retirement Planning

Social Security: Questions To Consider

Retirement is an exciting time, but there is still much to plan for. There are many social security questions to consider, so read more here.

FamilyVest May 2023

Tax Planning

Retirement Tax Hazards

Five retirement tax hazards for high-net-worth retirees: the widow penalty, RMDs, inherited IRA rules, estate tax planning, and Medicare IRMAA surcharges.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2023

Financial Planning

How to Become Financially Organized

A practical guide to organizing your financial life: what documents to keep, how long to keep them, and how to build a system that makes tax time, estate.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP®, CEPA®, ChSNC® March 2023

Tax Planning

Key Tax and Retirement Savings Changes You Need to Know

Stay current on tax and retirement savings changes for 2025-2026: IRA and 401(k) contribution limits, HSA limits, standard deductions, Roth IRA phaseouts,.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® February 2023

Investment Strategy

Financial New Year's Resolutions That Actually Work

Practical financial resolutions that build lasting habits: automate savings, review insurance, rebalance investments, and create a plan you will actually.

FamilyVest January 2023

Investment Strategy

How To Protect Yourself Against Inflation

With high inflation, how to protect yourself against inflation is foremost on people's minds. Read about what to review in your own plan.

FamilyVest September 2022

Estate Planning

It's Spring: Time to Review Your Estate Plan

Spring is a great time to get your financial house in order. It is the prefect opportunity review your estate plan.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® April 2022

Investment Strategy

How To Avoid Financial Scams

Financial scams are rampant in today's fast moving and technologically savvy world, so it's important to know how to avoid financial scams. j

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® October 2021

Investment Strategy

How to Protect Your Nest Egg from Inflation

Even modest inflation reduces the value of your savings over time. How to structure your portfolio with stocks, bonds, TIPS, and diversification to maintain.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP®, CEPA®, ChSNC® July 2021

Tax Planning

Biden's Tax Plan: How May it Affect You?

Here are some questions to ask yourself regarding some of the main areas of tax law that Biden's tax plan could affect.

FamilyVest May 2021

Tax Planning

Your Year-End Financial Planning Checklist

End the year strong with this year-end financial planning checklist. Review tax strategy, maximize retirement contributions, assess insurance, and prepare.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® December 2020

Estate Planning

Financial Considerations After the Death of a Spouse

Practical guide to the financial steps after losing a spouse: insurance claims, tax filing changes, Social Security survivor benefits, estate tax.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® August 2020

Business Planning & Exits

How to Manage Small Business Finances

Owning and managing a small business can be challenging at times. We will take a look at key points to know when managing your small business finances.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® April 2020

Tax Planning

Buying Your First Home: 4 Financial Considerations to Make

Buying your first home is likely to be one of the larger purchases you’ll make in your life. See what financial considerations you shouldn't overlook.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® February 2020

Tax Planning

How Allowances Prepare Your Kids For Life

Allowing hands-on money management, allowances prepare your kids for life by teaching principles that guide them through adulthood.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® January 2020

Retirement Planning

The SECURE Act: Big Changes in Retirement Planning

The SECURE Act brings with it some of the largest changes in retirement planning in the last decade. We'll review some of the most significant changes here.

FamilyVest December 2019

Retirement Planning

Roth IRA Contribution Limits and Income Rules

Understand current Roth IRA contribution limits and income eligibility rules. Learn phaseout ranges by filing status, backdoor Roth strategies, and how to.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® November 2019

Investment Strategy

Financial Considerations When Pursuing an Advanced Degree

Going back to school is a pragmatic decision as well as a monetary one. Here are some financial considerations when pursuing an advanced degree.

FamilyVest September 2019

Retirement Planning

Financial Goals: How to Set Them and Achieve Them

Setting financial goals can seem difficult, but if you stick to some simple methodologies, you can set clear and achieveable goals.

FamilyVest August 2019

Retirement Planning

6 Financial Lessons to Teach Your Child Before Leaving Home

Moving out of your childhood home and into adulthood can be challenging. Here are 6 financial lessons to pass on to your child before leaving home.

FamilyVest July 2019

Financial Planning

Financial Infidelity: How to Rebuild Trust and Move Forward

Financial infidelity, from secret accounts to hidden debt, damages relationships as deeply as other forms of betrayal.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP®, CEPA®, ChSNC® July 2019

Financial Planning

Spend Less Than You Earn: Your First Step to Financial Freedom

Spending less than you earn is the foundation of financial security. Why it is harder than it sounds, how to identify what is really driving your spending,.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP®, CEPA®, ChSNC® June 2019

Tax Planning

Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit: Help for Families

Caring for a disabled dependent can be financially straining, but it's possible to qualify for relief under the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit.

FamilyVest May 2019

Retirement Planning

It's Never Too Early or Never Too Late: Plan For Retirement At Any Age

If you think it's too early to start planning for retirement, or too late... this post is for you. Here's how to plan for retirement at any age.

FamilyVest March 2019

Special Needs Planning

What Should You Expect From Your Special Needs Planner?

What to look for in a special needs financial planner: experience with trusts, ABLE accounts, SSI coordination, and lifetime care funding.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® February 2019

Special Needs Planning

Disability Integration Act: Independence For Those With Disabilities

The Disability Integration Act outlines the importance of promoting independence for those with disabilities in our community.

FamilyVest February 2019

Financial Planning

Sinking Funds: How and When to Use Them

A sinking fund is a targeted savings account for a specific planned expense. How sinking funds differ from emergency funds, and how to set them up to protect.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP®, CEPA®, ChSNC® January 2019

Special Needs Planning

Childhood Disabled Beneficiary Benefits (CDB): Does Your Child Qualify?

Does your disabled adult child qualify for CDB? Learn the SSA's 4 eligibility tests, the critical age-22 deadline, and how CDB and SSI work together.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® January 2019

Estate Planning

Grief and Loss: Managing Your Finances After The Death of a Spouse

After losing a spouse, finances are the last thing you want to think about. What to handle now, what to defer, and where a fiduciary advisor fits in.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® January 2019

Special Needs Planning

End of Year Financial To-do List for Professionals

A year-end checklist for busy professionals: max contributions, tax-loss harvesting, beneficiary updates, and what to set up before January 1.

FamilyVest December 2018

Special Needs Planning

Minimizing Income Taxes with IRA Distributions to Special Needs Trusts

Routing IRA distributions to a Special Needs Trust without disqualifying benefits. Conduit vs. accumulation trusts, the tax tradeoffs, and what to avoid.

FamilyVest November 2018

Retirement Planning

Social Security and Medicare Changes: What Retirees Need to Know

How annual Social Security COLA adjustments and Medicare premium changes affect your retirement income, including IRMAA surcharges and planning strategies.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP®, CEPA®, ChSNC® November 2018

Investment Strategy

How to Choose a Financial Planner: Your Ultimate Guide

If you're struggling to invest, a financial planner can put you on the right path. Here's how to choose a financial planner that fits your needs.

FamilyVest October 2018

Special Needs Planning

Special Needs and Housing: How You Pay Can Affect SSI Benefits

The world of navigating housing choices for individuals with special needs is challenging enough, but when you add the added component of ensuring one.

FamilyVest September 2018

Investment Strategy

College Financial Aid EFC: 6 Questions Answered

Understanding financial aid can be daunting. One key element is your EFC, Expected Family Contribution. Learn more about college financial aid EFC here.

FamilyVest September 2018

Retirement Planning

10 of the Biggest Retirement Planning Mistakes You Need to Avoid

Are you starting to prepare for your retirement? Before you dive in too deep, there are some things you need to know first.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® August 2018

Retirement Planning

Everything You Need to Know About an Inherited 401(k)

Inherited a 401(k)? Spouse vs. non-spouse beneficiary rules, the SECURE Act 10-year rule, RMD timing, and the tax implications you need to plan for.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® August 2018

Retirement Planning

7 Retirement Planning Tips for Women

Women face longer retirements, income gaps, and higher healthcare costs. Seven practical steps to build a retirement plan that accounts for these realities.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® July 2018

Insurance Planning

Why Florida Residents Need a Hurricane Plan

Hurricane financial planning for Florida residents. How to build an emergency plan, maintain liquidity, review insurance coverage, and protect your family.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP®, CEPA®, ChSNC® July 2018

$Financial Planner vs. Financial Advisor: What's the Difference?$

Investment Strategy

Financial Planner vs. Financial Advisor: What's the Difference?

Once you know the difference between a financial planner vs financial advisor, you can make better decisions regarding which one you need and how they can.

FamilyVest July 2018

Investment Strategy

How Behavioral Finance Can Impact Your Investing Goals

Our brains are extremely powerful influencers. Let's take a look at how behavioral finance can impact your investment goals.

FamilyVest May 2018

Special Needs Planning

How To Set Up A Special Needs Trust For Your Child

Are you in the midst of planning for the financial future of your child? Here, we'll outline and explore how to set up a special needs trust for your child.

FamilyVest April 2018

Tax Planning

Top 7 Tips to Save Money When You're on a Budget

Saving money can be hard, especially when you're already on a budget. Read on to learn the top 7 tips to save money especially when money is tight.

FamilyVest April 2018

Special Needs Planning

Practical Tips for the Grandparent of a Child with Special Needs

How grandparents can support a grandchild with special needs through trusts, ABLE accounts, and benefit-safe gifting strategies.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® April 2018

Tax Planning

Love & Money: 5 Quick Tips for Talking to Your Spouse about Money

Love & Money: 5 Tips on how to talk with your significant other about your finances before issues grow into problems.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® January 2018

Tax Planning

How the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Changed Your Financial Plan

Understand how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) reshaped tax brackets, deductions, the estate tax exemption, and business taxes.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® December 2017

Retirement Planning

The Money Chat You Need To Have With Your College-Bound Teen

Talking about money with your college-bound child may not be easy, but it's essential to the planning process and allows all those involved to be in the know.

FamilyVest November 2017

Investment Strategy

It's National Financial Planning Month: Time for an Investment Plan

It's National Financial Planning month so it's a great time to get your financial plan in order. Consider these questions to help you with your investment plan.

FamilyVest October 2017

Retirement Planning

6 Big Questions to Consider for Your Retirement

The six questions that shape every retirement plan: when to start, how much to save, where to invest, Social Security timing, healthcare costs, and catching up.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® October 2017

Investment Strategy

What Does it Take to be a Wise Investor?

We’ve put together a quick guide to common mistakes we see arising again and again in the investment and financial management sphere.

FamilyVest September 2017

Tax Planning

How to Make Money on the Side (or Full Time): A Quick Guide

It's not always easy finding ways to make money on the side, but if you consider your talents and items or services that are in demand, it's within your reach.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® August 2017

Special Needs Planning

Who is Driving the Boat? Sean and Alaina: A Special Needs Plan

Often as parents of children with special needs, we put our own needs on hold. But we must consider our own needs if we want to successfully care for others.

FamilyVest August 2017

Tax Planning

Should You Pay Off Your Mortgage Early?

Getting rid of debt can save money and stress. But before you pay off your mortgage early, here’s what you need to think about to ensure it’s the right choice.

FamilyVest July 2017

Financial Planning

Can Your Cash Reserves Handle an Emergency?

How much should you keep in an emergency fund? Three to six months of income is the baseline, but the right number depends on your family and your.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP®, CEPA®, ChSNC® July 2017

Investment Strategy

The Human Advisor

The future of financial advice combines human judgment with technology. What the technology-enabled human advisor model means for clients.

FamilyVest June 2017

Special Needs Planning

Special Needs Planning: 4 Financial Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid the four most common financial mistakes in special needs planning: skipping the Letter of Intent, leaving money directly to your child, waiting too.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® June 2017

Investment Strategy

How to Avoid Self-Sabotaging Your Investments

When learning how to invest, the biggest challenge you’ll need to overcome is managing your own emotions and making rational decisions with your investments.

FamilyVest June 2017

Tax Planning

How a Health Savings Account Fits into Your Financial Planning Toolbox

See how a Health Savings Account (HSA) can be an excellent financial planning tool to help you save tax-free funds for medical and non-medical expenses.

FamilyVest June 2017

Financial Planning

The Best Money-Saving Strategy You Are Probably Not Using

Savings hacks and tricks offer short-term wins, but lasting change comes from aligning your spending with your values.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP®, CEPA®, ChSNC® June 2017

Investment Strategy

How to Start Saving for College and Alternatives to 529 Plans

Saving for college and feel overwhelming, but families can get this financial priority under control by understanding their options--and starting sooner rather

FamilyVest May 2017

Tax Planning

Better Manage Medical Bills with These 5 Strategies

Is your family feeling overwhelmed by medical bills? You can take control by getting proactive. Here’s what you can start doing right now.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® May 2017

Tax Planning

Ready to Start Your Family? Here's How to Financially Plan for a Baby

If you’re looking to start your family, you’re probably wondering how to manage the costs of having kids. Here’s what you can do to plan now and save in the

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® May 2017

Retirement Planning

Don't Settle for Financial Planning: Focus on Life Planning Instead

The Narrow, Numbers-Only Approach to Financial Planning Falls Flat. Life Planning Provides More Value and Makes Room for Life Experiences and your why.

FamilyVest May 2017

Special Needs Planning

Using Insurance to Fund a Special Needs Trust

Looking at ways to fund your special needs trust with insurance such as term life, whole life, universal life, and survivorship / second to die policies.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® May 2017

Special Needs Planning

Legal Considerations of Special Needs Planning

Why do I need an Estate Plan? What is an estate? An estate is basically everything someone owns. This includes business holdings, financial assets

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® April 2017

Retirement Planning

Traditional IRA vs. Roth IRA: How to Choose

Compare Traditional and Roth IRAs: tax deductions vs. tax-free growth, contribution limits, income eligibility, withdrawal rules, and RMDs.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® March 2017

Investment Strategy

New Market Highs and Positive Expected Returns

When markets hit all-time highs, investors may feel as though it is time to sell. However, staying invested despite short-term predictions could increase the

FamilyVest February 2017

Investment Strategy

What Is Fiduciary Advice?

It is not always clear what a professional’s legal responsibilities are toward their clients. A Department of Labor rule creates a single standard.

FamilyVest February 2017

Investment Strategy

The Power of Markets

The essay, narrated from the point of view of a pencil, describes the “complex combination of miracles” necessary to create and bring to market the commonplace

FamilyVest February 2017

Special Needs Planning

Help Your Kids Develop a Healthy Relationship with Money

Money is like a brick—it can be used destructively or to build. Help your kids build good money habits with these important lessons.

FamilyVest February 2017

Special Needs Planning

Guardianship and Alternatives: Exploring the Options

When your child with special needs turns 18, will you consider guardianship? The legal implications are far-reaching. But there are alternatives you can

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® January 2017

Special Needs Planning

SSI and SSDI: Protection from Poverty for People with Disabilities

Whether you are a parent of a child with special needs or an individual with a disability, you should know about the SSI and SSDI programs meant to provide a

FamilyVest January 2017

Special Needs Planning

ABLE Accounts: Filling the Gap in Special Needs Planning

With the passage of the ABLE Act, families with disabled young children now have the ability to set aside money for their care in a way that earns special tax

FamilyVest October 2016

Special Needs Planning

The Special Needs Letter of Intent (LOI)

A letter of intent can help ease the trepidation you may feel about what the future holds for you and your special needs child.

Todd Sensing, CFA, CFP® October 2016