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Tax certainty – The new law makes permanent many parts of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (TCJA).1 This tax certainty is helpful to individuals but also businesses who need to plan several years into the future. Without certainty around tax deductions for business investment, businesses can hold back spending and hiring. · Makes permanent current tax rates. College · Expanded uses for 529 college savings plans – Funds can now be used to cover post-secondary training and credentialing. · Student loan payments by employer – Currently excluded from taxable income up to certain limits; new law extends it and indexes the cap for inflation

When a person dies, their surviving spouse (and in some cases, ex-spouse) and minor or disabled children are entitled to Social Security death and survivor benefits. It is important to understand these potential SS benefits, whether or not you will qualify for survivor benefits, and how to access them.

Meet the new cool kid on the block: Grandparent owned 529s

There’s a lot of talk about the proposed US government budget with Republicans and the White House heralding the One Big, Beautiful Bill Act as a huge benefit for Americans. But there are also worries about our growing federal deficit. This bill, as approved by the House on May 22nd, is expected to add $2.8 trillion to our deficits over the next 10 years.1 That’s a lot of money on top of the government’s existing deficit spending.

Don’t invest too conservatively. Past performance cannot guarantee future results, but the value of the stock market tends to rise over time. Taking more risk offers possibility of higher returns over the long term. There will be market downturns, but in your early working years, you will have time to recover from market dips. Consider target date funds (aligned to your expected retirement year) or asset allocation funds (aligned with your risk tolerance) If you are not comfortable selecting investments.

Lisa: So how do I know if an advisor is truly comprehensive and right for me? Rick: Ask them what their process looks like. Do they offer advice beyond investments? Do they get to know your life and goals before offering solutions? Are they a fiduciary, meaning they’re legally obligated to act in your best interest? And how do they get paid? Transparency matters. And what I personally recommend is going with your gut. Assuming they check all the boxes as far as experience, being a fiduciary etc, ask yourself if you feel comfortable with them. If it doesn’t feel right, keep looking until it does. Also, don’t be afraid to ask a lot of questions. If you feel pressured or they don’t clarify things, that is a red flag.