As school season ramps up, shopping commercials will become more prevalent as parents and their children start planning for the next school year. Below are strategies to keep in mind as you navigate back-to-school expenses. Set a Budget According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), $3.4 billion was projected to be spent on backpacks alone in 2017. Take the time… Read More
Archive for the ‘ Education Planning ’ Category
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Bring Financial Literacy Programs to Our Schools
When I was in school, I remember taking classes like Algebra, Chemistry, Art, Cooking, Physical Education, and English. No teachers taught me how to create a budget and stick to it. I didn’t learn what debt is and I didn’t know how a college loan would impact my bottom line once I graduated. No one at school taught me what… Read More
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Battle of the Sexes: The View on Money
We have been taught that men and women think, communicate and process information differently. Psychiatrists, psychologists and scientists have all proposed theories and findings to illustrate that our brains are simply wired differently. To support this bold statement, a host of examples have been provided for us to ponder– some amusing, some relatable and others completely mind-boggling. When it comes… Read More
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Should You Let Your Kids Study Abroad?
I remember when I came home for the weekend my sophomore year of college and declared to my parents that I want to study abroad in the U.K. the following year. I was expecting to be met with excitement and a “go get ‘em!” attitude. Instead, 19-year old me was met with “How is this relevant to your future?”, “Is… Read More
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Yes, We Can Pay Off Our Student Debt!
As another semester wraps up, about 4.5 million more students will have college degrees in the U.S.[1]. On average, graduates will have $37,172 in student loan debt, a number that’s up six percent from the graduating class of 2015[2]. Paying off this debt may seem like a monumental task, but do not worry! With quite a bit of student loan… Read More
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What Happens to a 529 Plan if Your Child Doesn’t Go to College?
A 529 plan is a tax-advantaged college savings plan that allows families to save for their children’s future education costs. Money that is deposited into the plan is invested and grows tax-free. With the rising cost of college education, starting to save early may be a key component to make college affordable for many families in the United States. Many… Read More
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Relief from Student Loan Debt for Maryland Residents
If you live in Maryland and owe student loan debt, Maryland’s Higher Education Commission may provide relief. However, you must act quickly as the deadline to apply is September 15th. The Student Loan Debt Relief Tax Credit went into effect on July 1st 2017. If approved, you may receive up to a $5,000 tax credit. To receive the tax credit, you… Read More
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Our 7 Favorite Creative and Unique Scholarships
Every student has talents that are special and unique. While some kids are amazing at math, some are great writers. Some kids may not do well on standardized tests, but perhaps they are amazing interior designers or talented video producers. For current and aspiring college students, there are many unique scholarship programs available today that reward them for not only… Read More
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New Tax Law Brings Added Benefit to 529 Plans
529 plans are education savings plans designed to help set aside funds for eligible education expenses. Traditionally, 529 plans have only been available to be used for higher education expenses. However, with the new tax law comes expanded benefits to 529 plans. Owners are now able to withdraw up to $10,000 per year tax-free on private elementary and secondary school expenses,… Read More
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529 FAQ
You worked hard to invest in your child’s 529 Plan over the years and now that it’s time for them to go off to college, questions arise on how exactly the money can be used. Below are some common questions that come up: Let’s start with the basics; what is a 529 Plan? A 529 Plan is an education… Read More
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How To Work With Your Financial Advisor
I consider it a wonderful privilege to stand with my clients as they make career decisions, grow businesses, have families, and set retirement goals. To get the most out of this relationship there are a few things that can be helpful: Open communication: Our job as financial advisors is to listen and guide discussion to areas that you may never… Read More