Stock Options and Restricted Stock – Key Things to Consider In this Downturn
June 2, 2020
If you are an executive working for a public company, it’s likely that a big portion of your wealth is tied to your company stock. As stock prices fall, obviously the value of your stock-based compensation also drops. This can be paralyzing. Amid the chaos, how do you answer the simple question: “what should I […]
Secret Retirement Saving Super-Power: The Mega Back Door Roth
May 26, 2020
For high earners and big savers, there are limitations on contributions to designated retirement accounts. Specifically, in 401k accounts, the maximum you can deduct from your salary is $19,500 in 2020. For those over 50, a “catch-up” contribution is allowed up to an additional $6,500. What many don’t know about 401k accounts is that there […]
Working Wealthy – Stress Testing Your Plan
May 12, 2020
I have written before about the value of having a financial plan. Even the simplest of plans can help with things like retirement spending and savings goals. And you might say, “Sure I have a plan, but I threw my plan out the window in March”. Effects of the Pandemic The recent market volatility from […]
The Income Statement – Vital for Businesses and Financial Professionals
April 21, 2020
Let’s say for a moment that you are solely responsible for investing $10,000,000 into a company – either public or private. With a big decision like that – what would you want to see from your target company? Would you want to see an income statement? A balance sheet? A governance structure with appropriate risk […]
Money Lessons for Lawyers From the Ball Diamond
April 14, 2020
April is one of my favorite times of the year. Certainly not because of the lovely April weather here in Chicago, but because normally it means baseball season is getting into full swing. Unfortunately, the start of the baseball season has been pushed off a bit due to the impact of COVID-19, but it will […]
Six Planning Tips to Consider After the Stimulus CARES Act
April 2, 2020
Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (“CARES”) Planning On March 27, 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was passed. The $2.2 trillion dollar bill provides broad relief across the American economy for businesses and individuals. Below is a summary of how it impacts individuals specifically: Recovery Rebate Checks $1,200 to each […]
Financial Planning During Down Markets
March 24, 2020
During periods of market volatility, it is very normal to pay close attention to your portfolio while putting other aspects of your financial life on hold. However, there are many important planning items that should not be overlooked during these times. Here are a few planning ideas that can be implemented during market downturns that […]
Working Wealthy – How Do I Compare?
March 17, 2020
The aspect of my job I enjoy the most is the opportunity to work with so many different people and their personal financial planning. Each client has a totally unique background, personal experience and path. But there is one common thread that weaves through all of my interactions. Whether it gets asked or remains unspoken, […]
Gifts to Children – Making Them More Effective
February 27, 2020
Gifts are made to loved ones for many reasons. Parents may just want to give their children financial help or accomplish other worthwhile objectives. Well-planned gifts can reduce a donor’s estate for estate tax purposes and shift income taxation to or away from the recipient of the gift. Many objectives can be addressed in a […]
It’s Comp Season – What Should I Do With All This Cash?
February 18, 2020
For many law firms, we are in the thick of “comp season.” For many lawyers, the first couple of months of the year are when you receive the lion’s share of your compensation for the prior year. This creates some degree of consternation and begs the question – “what should I do with my cash?” […]
Significant Retirement Plan Changes Are Here
February 4, 2020
The Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement Act, or SECURE Act which recently passed is one of the most significant pieces of retirement legislation in the last decade. Here are some of the key provisions contained in the SECURE Act: Increase Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) Age From 70 ½ to 72 – The SECURE […]
Money Lessons for Lawyers from the Gridiron
December 24, 2019
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! You’re probably thinking that I’m referring to Christmas…Well, as much as I love a little yuletide cheer, I’m actually referring to the college football bowl season, which is fast approaching. This got me thinking, what lessons from the gridiron can help lawyers think more strategically about their […]