529 college savings plans are important. But, they are not the most important thing new parents need to be thinking about. Speaking of new parents, it seems like everyone in my life is having kids. This includes: My brother My cousin My cousin-in-law Fellow professionals in the Financial Planning Association Friends from college My wife’s friends from…
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Consider this: You’re on vacation with your family at Lake Titicaca. It’s hot out. So, you decide to jump in the lake. But, before you do, you spot a sign. The sign reads: Caution! Giant killer eels in the lake. They will eat you for breakfast and not even think twice about it. Stay out…
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While a dollar may not be worth as much as it used to be, you can still stretch a buck pretty far. With a dollar bill, you can buy yourself a candy bar, a postage stamp, or even a ribeye steak. Unfortunately, you may not be able to do so forever. Why? Because inflation exists!…
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Student loans got you down? If so, you can get in line with the other 44 million Americans. Fortunately, there are a few strategies you can use to not only lower your income-driven student loan payments (aka income-driven repayment) but save buckets of money, too! In case you don’t know what I’m talking about here,…
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As a San Diego homeowner and self-proclaimed financial planning nerd, please allow me to share my thoughts on San Diego real estate. Let me begin by saying: I love getting a good deal. That’s why I shop at Costco, put low-ball offers on used items on eBay, and scrounge Craigslist for free stuff. I do this…
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If you’re wondering what a side letter of instruction is, you’re not alone. To help you understand what this term really means, I want you to consider the following story: Imagine a husband and wife who have been married several years. Like many couples, only one spouse has taken a big interest in the household…
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For some people, the idea that money = freedom is absurd. Some may even be offended by the idea. Or perhaps enraged. Why such strong feelings? People can have complicated feelings about money. And they may even see their financial success or failure as part of their character. So, when you mention the fact that…
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Recently, we completed a financial plan for a young professional (we’ll call him Adam). I’m happy to say that Adam was on a good track. He was maxing out his 401(k) each year and held small taxable and Roth IRA accounts as well. Prospects were bright for Adam: at his savings rate, the retirement he…
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