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Prepare for More IRS Audits!
The IRS is significantly enhancing its audit capabilities thanks to an infusion of $60 billion over the next ten years. This funding,...

Jim Richter
Jun 27, 20242 min read


9 Vital Financial Questions for People Over 40
As families transition from their 30’s to their 40’s and their 50’s to their 60’s, the role of financial planning shifts. Older couples...

Jim Richter
Jun 13, 20244 min read


Penalty and Interest Considerations for the Upcoming Tax Season
The deadline for taxpayers to file their 2023 individual tax returns or request an extension is Monday, April 15, 2024. Keep in mind that...
Michael Baumeister
Jan 18, 20245 min read


"WE KNOW BETTER!" (Vanguard blocks Bitcoin)
In a surprising turn of events, Vanguard, Northwestern Mutual, and Edward Jones have all decided that they must protect clients from...

Jim Richter
Jan 16, 20244 min read


9 Key Provisions of the Paid Leave for All Workers Act
The Illinois Paid Leave for All Workers Act, effective January 1, 2024, guarantees nearly all workers in the state up to one week of paid...

Jim Richter
Jan 9, 20243 min read


Understanding 2024 Tax Updates
As tax season approaches, it’s crucial for individuals to be well-prepared to navigate the changing landscape. Whether you are a seasoned...

Jim Richter
Jan 8, 20245 min read


Tax Deadlines and Critical Dates for 2024
As tax season approaches, we wanted to share a few important dates and deadlines for 2024. January 29Â - 2024 Tax Filing Season Open Tax...

Jim Richter
Jan 3, 20243 min read


The Christmas story though the eyes of an angel
In the celestial realms where time unfolds in a dance of eternity, I, Michael, the archangel, the one who stands guard over Israel, the...

Jim Richter
Dec 22, 20233 min read


Navigating the Social Security and Medicare Changes in 2024
As we usher in the new year, 2024 brings with it several changes to Social Security and Medicare that will impact millions of Americans....
Michael Baumeister
Dec 20, 20233 min read


9 Tax-Saving Moves to Make Before Year-End
April 15th is four months away, but there are plenty of actions you can take before then to help manage your tax bill. From maximizing...

Jim Richter
Dec 13, 20235 min read


A Fresh Look at 529s: New Opportunities Generated by Recent Legislation
This holiday season consider planting a gift that continues to bear new opportunities for beneficiaries to reap a diverse harvest....
Michelle Hartley (AFC®)
Nov 30, 20235 min read


A Guide to Meaningful Charitable Giving
If your family is similar to mine, you might do the lion’s share of your charitable giving in December. We like to include our kids...

Jim Richter
Nov 29, 20234 min read


This Year Families Can Give Thanks for Some Beneficial FAFSA Upgrades
Normally the FAFSA drops in October, but this year the thrills and chills of the season had nothing to do with looming college expenses....
Michelle Hartley (AFC®)
Nov 15, 20234 min read


THE IMPACT OF RISING INTEREST RATES ON THE US ECONOMY
Interest rates are a key tool in the financial landscape, with far-reaching implications that touch upon various aspects of the US...

Jim Richter
Nov 10, 20234 min read


THE IMPACT OF RISING INTEREST RATES ON RETIREMENT PORTFOLIOS
Interest rates are a fundamental aspect of the global economy, and the aggressive rise in interest rates over the past 18 months has had...

Jim Richter
Oct 31, 20234 min read


WILL RISING MORTGAGE RATES IMPACT THE VALUE OF YOUR HOME?
NOTE: THIS IS PART ONE OF A THREE PART SERIES. TODAY WE ARE ADDRESSING MORTGAGE RATES, AND HOW THEY COULD IMPACT THE VALUE OF YOUR HOME....

Jim Richter
Oct 24, 20235 min read


WHO IS RAY DALIO? AND WHY DOES IT MATTER WHAT HE SAYS?
Ray Dalio is one of the greatest investors of our time. He has served as co-chief investment officer of Bridgewater Associates since...

Jim Richter
Oct 10, 20235 min read


Fitch Downgrades US Debt Rating: Assessing the Ramifications
Introduction The recent decision by Fitch Ratings to downgrade the credit rating of the United States' sovereign debt could have sent...
Michael Baumeister
Aug 3, 20234 min read


The Impact of Illinois' Mandatory Retirement Plan on Employers
The final Illinois Secure Choice deadline of November 1 is less than four months away. Small businesses that have 5 or more employees...
Michael Baumeister
Jul 25, 20233 min read


Tax Season 2023: Expect smaller refunds, capital-gains bills and higher audit rates
As we head into 2023, millions of American taxpayers will need to adjust their expectations for their tax return. The stimulus checks are...

Jim Richter
Jan 19, 20234 min read
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