Blog
Ten Year-End Tax Tips for 2018
October 31, 2018
Here are 10 things to consider as you weigh potential tax moves between now and the end of the year. 1. Set aside time to plan Effective planning requires that you have a good understanding of your current tax situation, as well as a reasonable estimate of how your circumstances might change next year. There’s…
Building Confidence in Your Strategy for Retirement
October 31, 2018
Each year, the Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI) conducts its Retirement Confidence Survey to assess both worker and retiree confidence in financial aspects of retirement. In 2018, as in years past, retirees expressed a higher level of confidence than today’s workers (perhaps because “retirement” is less of an abstract concept to those actually living it)….
How can I protect my personal and financial information from credit fraud and identity theft?
October 31, 2018
In today’s digital world, massive computer hacks and data breaches are common occurrences. And chances are, your personal or financial information is now susceptible to being used for credit fraud or identity theft. If you discover that you are the victim of either of these crimes, you should consider placing a credit freeze or fraud…
Symphony Financial Planning a Three-Time Sponsor of Davis Art Studio Tour
October 12, 2018
DAVIS, California—October 12, 2018—It is nearly time for art enthusiasts to enjoy the annual tour of Davis’ art studios, and Symphony Financial Planning is proud to announce that it is once again a tour sponsor. The nonprofit Davis Arts Center hosts the annual Davis Art Studio Tour Exhibition, which this year will be held October…
Tax Benefits of Homeownership After Tax Reform
October 4, 2018
Buying a home can be a major expenditure. Fortunately, federal tax benefits are still available, even after recent tax reform legislation, to help make homeownership more affordable. There may also be tax benefits under state law. Mortgage interest deduction One of the most important tax benefits of owning a home is that you may be…
On the Road to Retirement, Beware of These Five Risks
October 4, 2018
On your journey to retirement, you’ll likely face many risks that have the potential to throw you off course. Following are five common challenges retirement investors face. Take some time now to review and understand them before your journey takes an unplanned detour. Traveling aimlessly Setting out on an adventure without a definitive destination can…
Down the Donut Hole: The Medicare Coverage Gap
October 4, 2018
One of the most confusing Medicare provisions is the prescription drug coverage gap, often called the “donut hole.” It may be clearer if you consider the gap within the annual “lifecycle” of Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Coverage. This also applies to drug coverage that is integrated into a Part C Medicare Advantage Plan. Annual…
What to Do If Your Term Life Insurance Policy Is About to Expire
August 30, 2018
One advantage of term life insurance is that it is generally the most cost-effective way to achieve the maximum life insurance protection you can afford. Many people first purchase term life insurance to protect their family’s financial interests after a significant life event, such as getting married or the birth of a child. You may…
The Financial Implications of a Chronic Illness
August 30, 2018
When you live with a chronic illness, you need to confront both the day-to-day and long-term financial implications of that illness. Talking openly about your health can be hard, but sharing your questions and challenges with those who can help you is extremely important, because recommendations can be better tailored to your needs. Every person…
Can the federal funds rate affect the economy?
August 30, 2018
The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) is the policymaking branch of the Federal Reserve. One of its primary responsibilities is setting the federal funds target rate. The FOMC meets eight times per year, after which it announces any changes to the target rate. The Federal Reserve (the Fed), through the FOMC, uses the federal funds…