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Welcome to the Level Up Life Planning Blog!

This is where our team will publish and create content that we feel would be timely and beneficial to share to our clients, family and friends. Are you looking for a topic we haven't discussed? Send us an email and we will add it to our list of upcoming topics to cover. 

Thursday, March 7, 2024

As we continue through 2024, I wanted to share some data that many may find positive. Fidelity Investments just announced that 440,000 retirement savers reached an incredible milestone in 2023: $1 million in their 401(k).1 That's...

Thursday, February 15, 2024

Over the years, I've come to believe that learning to navigate financial discussions and events in a relationship is a "must" that transcends generations. However, recent data shows that Gen Z and Millennial couples are forging their...

Thursday, December 28, 2023

The Internal Revenue Service recently released updated income tax brackets, standard deduction, and retirement contribution limits for the 2024 tax year. While these taxes are not due for some time, it may benefit you to start...

Wednesday, December 20, 2023

Women often find themselves orchestrators of holiday magic, the epicenter of planning, gifting, cooking, and orchestrating festive feasts. While spreading joy to loved ones, it can be challenging for women to prioritize personal and...

Friday, December 15, 2023

Debt can feel like a heavy snowball rolling downhill, gaining size and momentum. But what if you could use that snowball effect to your advantage? Enter the snowball strategy of debt repayment – a powerful method to tackle debt...

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Monday, December 11, 2023

A late-week, two-day rally left stocks higher, adding to November’s gains as the last month of trading for 2023 began. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was flat (+0.01%), while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 0.21%. The...

Thursday, December 7, 2023

Don't let another year pass by without a clear financial roadmap. As we stand at the threshold of a new year, it's an opportune time to reflect on our financial journey and set the stage for a future filled with financial security and...

Monday, December 4, 2023

A Friday rally turned an otherwise mixed week for stocks into a solid performance. The Dow Jones Industrial Average picked up 2.42%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 0.77%. The Nasdaq Composite index rose 0.38% for the...

Thursday, November 30, 2023

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebrations, and gift-giving but can also be a financial challenge. It's tempting to splurge on presents, decorations, and festive gatherings, but overspending during the holidays can lead to debt...

Monday, November 27, 2023

Investor enthusiasm for stocks remained strong last week, buoyed by declining bond yields in a holiday-abbreviated trading week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average picked up 1.27%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 1.00%. The...

Sunday, November 26, 2023

It's time to prepare! During the holiday season, identity theft and cyberattacks tend to rise significantly. According to the FBI, cyberattacks increase by 60% during the holiday season. It is essential to be prepared to protect your...

Monday, November 20, 2023

Stocks extended their November rally last week as investors cheered lower-than-forecast inflation data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.94%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 2.24%. The Nasdaq Composite index rose...

Saturday, November 18, 2023

Navigating the intricacies of Social Security alone can be a daunting task. Considering Social Security accounts for an average of 30% of income in retirement, it's imperative to get it right. Mistakes in claiming your benefits...

Friday, November 10, 2023

As the year approaches its end, individuals in the age range of 60-70 should prioritize their Medicare coverage to ensure they are making the most of this vital health insurance program. This article offers essential year-end Medicare...

Monday, November 6, 2023

Stocks ripped higher last week on a dramatic retreat in bond yields triggered by easing inflation and a slowing labor market. The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped 5.07%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 surged 5.85%. The...

Friday, November 3, 2023

As the year draws to a close, many women start thinking about giving back to their communities and supporting causes close to their hearts. Year-end charitable giving provides an excellent opportunity for women to harness their...

Monday, October 30, 2023

Amid a busy week of corporate earnings reports, stocks slumped on cautious earnings guidance, fears of higher interest rates, and growing anxiety over the increasing amount of Treasury bonds and notes coming to market. The Dow Jones...

Tuesday, October 24, 2023

In light of the recent cyberattack in Las Vegas, I want to address an increasingly critical issue in today's digital age: cybersecurity. Hackers are increasingly using a tactic known as "social engineering," which involves hacking...

Monday, October 23, 2023

Rising bond yields and uncertainty over whether this was the close of the Fed’s rate-hike cycle dragged markets lower last week despite solid corporate earnings results. The Dow Jones Industrial Average sank 1.61%, while the...

Wednesday, October 18, 2023

The Social Security Administration has announced a 3.2% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2024. This adjustment means the average Social Security retiree beneficiary will see their monthly check increase by about $57 to $1,849,...

Tuesday, October 17, 2023

Knowing when it’s the right time to retire can be difficult, especially if you love your job. Even professional athletes have a hard time knowing when to walk away! These athletes thought they were ready for retirement but...

Monday, October 16, 2023

Stocks ended mixed last week amid the outbreak of hostilities in the Middle East and higher-than-expected inflation data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.20%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 rose 0.45%. But the Nasdaq...

Tuesday, October 10, 2023

It’s football season. School is back in session, the days are getting shorter, and the weather is starting to turn. If you sit down to watch your alma mater play, your “to-do” list may grow. Your car may only have...

Tuesday, October 10, 2023

A Friday rally overcame a shaky week, sending stocks mostly higher. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.30% for the week. Meanwhile, the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 0.48%, and the Nasdaq Composite index added 1.60% for...

Tuesday, October 10, 2023

The Fed’s ongoing pledge of “higher interest rates for longer” has rattled financial markets and raised the cost of everything from mortgages to credit cards. Now adding to tensions are the recent events in the...

Tuesday, October 3, 2023

After a sharp increase in short-term interest rates, many market participants expected a slowdown in economic growth. In this edition of Economic Outlook, Christian Chan, CFA, Chief Investment Officer of AssetMark, examines growth...

Tuesday, October 3, 2023

Rising bond yields and government shutdown fears left stocks in mostly negative territory for the week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.34%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slipped 0.74%. The Nasdaq Composite index was...

Thursday, September 28, 2023

As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to change, the fall season brings with it a perfect opportunity to create cherished memories with your loved ones. And the best part? You don't need to break the bank to have a blast! We've...

Monday, September 25, 2023

Rising bond yields and fears of a government shutdown hammered stocks last week, with technology shares bearing the brunt of the retreat. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.89%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 dropped 2.93%...

Thursday, September 21, 2023

It’s time for your life insurance checkup. September is National Life Insurance Awareness Month, so it’s a great time to review your coverage.1 If you don’t have any life insurance, you’re not alone. Life...

Monday, September 18, 2023

Stocks ended the week roughly where they began as investors digested a mixed set of new economic data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.12%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slipped 0.16%. The Nasdaq Composite index fell...

Thursday, September 14, 2023

After arranging your accounts and property with an attorney or setting up retirement accounts, it’s easy to assume that you check those off your list forever. Unfortunately, it’s not as simple. Not only do tax laws...

Tuesday, September 12, 2023

Much time has passed since the events of September 11, 2001, and while in some ways it feels like a lifetime ago, the memory remains painfully fresh in my mind. An attack on U.S. soil. The loss of thousands of lives. In the wake of...

Monday, September 11, 2023

Concerns that the Fed may raise interest rates soured investor sentiment, sending stocks lower in a holiday-shortened trading week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.75%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 declined 1.29%....

Monday, September 4, 2023

Falling bond yields–spurred by weak economic data–helped lift stocks to weekly gains. The Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 1.43%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 2.50%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Monday, August 28, 2023

Stocks fluctuated last week, jostled by fitful bond yields and headline news, before ending strongly following Fed Chair Powell’s comments on the monetary outlook. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.45%, while the...

Tuesday, August 22, 2023

August is the month of simplicity and decluttering! As we embark on "Simplify Your Life Week," it's the perfect opportunity to take a step back, reassess our priorities, and streamline our lives for greater peace and fulfillment...

Monday, August 21, 2023

Stocks extended their August declines last week as higher yields and weak economic data out of China soured investor sentiment. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 2.21%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 retreated 2.11%. The...

Tuesday, August 15, 2023

Do you need help weighing the pros and cons of whether to max or not? By creating a financial plan, together we can help you determine the 401(k) savings amount that suits your financial circumstances and your goals.

Monday, August 14, 2023

Positive inflation data failed to lift stocks from their August doldrums last week as economic data and a ratings downgrade soured investor sentiment. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.62%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Monday, August 7, 2023

Stocks retreated last week as bond yields increased following the Treasury's announcement indicating “a larger-than-expected funding need” and a downgrade in the federal government’s debt rating. The Dow Jones...

Tuesday, August 1, 2023

It's that time again! As we approach the back-to-school season, we understand the financial strain it can place on families. However, with some planning and a commitment to a budget, you can avoid overspending on school supplies. We...

Monday, July 31, 2023

A Friday surge pushed stocks solidly into positive territory last week, ignited by cooling in an inflation gauge closely tracked by the Federal Reserve. The Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 0.66%, while the Standard &...

Thursday, July 27, 2023

Grab your clubs, dust off your plaid pants, and prepare for a wild ride on the greens! From the ancient origins of whacking rocks with sticks to the modern-day quest for the perfect swing, golf has evolved into a unique combination of...

Monday, July 24, 2023

Stocks moved to the rhythm of earnings season last week, initially rising on positive earnings surprises and faltering later in the week on key earnings disappointments. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 2.08%, while the...

Monday, July 17, 2023

Better-than-expected updates last week on consumer and wholesale price inflation buoyed investor sentiment, driving stocks higher and lower bond yields. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 2.29%, while the Standard &...

Thursday, July 13, 2023

In today's uncertain market, you may wonder if your financial plan is on track and if it's okay to retire. To help you successfully navigate retirement decisions, here are five recession-resistant strategies that can create the...

Monday, July 10, 2023

Rising concerns about further rate hikes sent stocks lower to kick off the second half of trading.The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.96%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 retreated 1.16%. The Nasdaq Composite index...

Saturday, July 8, 2023

Financial independence is a term that is often thrown around, but its true meaning goes far beyond merely accumulating wealth. It encompasses the ability to live life on your terms, free from the constraints of financial stress and the...

Tuesday, July 4, 2023

Every Fourth of July, we celebrate our nation’s independence, but many Americans do not feel that same freedom regarding money and finances. This Independence Day is a great time to review your finances and identify how to...

Monday, July 3, 2023

Stocks posted gains for the week to close out a stellar month, aided by positive economic data and reports that all major banks had passed the Federal Reserve’s annual stress test.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 2.02%,...

Tuesday, June 27, 2023

The LGBTQ+ community faces many unique challenges, including how to manage personal finances. How do your spending habits compare? Read on to learn more: https://www.cnbc...

Monday, June 26, 2023

Stocks took a breather last week as investors digested the previous week’s surge and the month-to-date solid gains.The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.67%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 fell 1.39%. The Nasdaq...

Monday, June 19, 2023

Stocks climbed last week as reassuring inflation data boosted investor hopes that the rate-hike cycle was nearing an end amid fresh economic data pointing to continued economic resilience.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.25%,...

Friday, June 16, 2023

Let’s hear it for the dads, the ones who help us grow, give us guidance, and look out for us in a million different ways. In celebration of Father’s Day, here are some of the ways you can honor the father-figures in your...

Monday, June 12, 2023

A late-week rally sent stocks into positive territory, with the S&P 500 index closing just shy of the 4,300 mark.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.34%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 0.39%. The Nasdaq Composite...

Tuesday, June 6, 2023

Summer’s here, and the time is right for fun in the sun (or shade). Like many of us, you’re probably looking forward to an extended getaway or family trip. But summer also means planning for hot weather, which can come with...

Tuesday, June 6, 2023

Stocks surged higher in the closing days of a holiday-shortened trading week, ignited by a political resolution on raising the debt ceiling and a strong employment report.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 2.02%, while the Standard...

Tuesday, May 30, 2023

Markets moved in sync last week with perceived movement in debt ceiling talks, weakening early in the week and then surging on news of progress. A solid quarterly report and guidance from a mega-cap technology company helped with...

Monday, May 29, 2023

Would it surprise you to hear that investors have moved past worrying about inflation? They have, at least for now.Wall Street has shifted its attention to Washington’s budget negotiations and how the debt ceiling will be...

Tuesday, May 23, 2023

A Cheat Sheet for Sending Your Kid to CollegeCollege marks a great milestone in a child’s life. It may be the first time he or she will live away from home. Dropping off your child at college may be an experience loaded with...

Monday, May 22, 2023

Stocks rallied last week, propelled by growing optimism over reaching a deal on raising the debt ceiling and avoiding a technical debt default by the U.S.The Dow Jones Industrial Average edged 0.38% higher, while the Standard &...

Tuesday, May 16, 2023

Birds singing, bees buzzing, and slightly longer days are all signs that winter has finally turned to spring. And with spring often comes the urge to deep clean your home, giving you the feeling of a fresh start. But spring cleaning...

Monday, May 15, 2023

Stocks were mixed last week as good inflation news was offset by mounting debt ceiling concerns and rekindled regional banking fears.The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.11%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slipped 0.29%. The...

Tuesday, May 9, 2023

Remember when a college education was reasonably priced? In the past 20 years, the cost of college tuition for public universities has risen 165%. College students and their families have been taking on more and more debt, and they are taki

Monday, May 8, 2023

A Friday rebound, triggered by a big tech company’s earnings beat and a strong jobs report, shaved much of the week’s accumulated losses.The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 1.24%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Tuesday, May 2, 2023

May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. America owes much to Asian American and Pacific Islander citizens. This year, we would like to recognize the leaders, artists, scientists, and athletes of Asian American and Pacific

Tuesday, May 2, 2023

Strong earnings from several mega-cap technology companies offset renewed regional banking jitters and weak economic data, leaving stocks higher for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.86%, while the Standard &...

Tuesday, April 25, 2023

Stocks remained resilient last week amid mixed earnings reports, hawkish Fed-speak, and lingering recession fears, closing out the five trading days with small losses.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.23%, while the Standard &...

Wednesday, April 19, 2023

What is financial fitness? We are all familiar with the term physical fitness, and if pressed for a definition, we might define it in terms of our strength and health level. When it comes to an explanation of financial fitness, the...

Tuesday, April 11, 2023

Americans love their pets. Whether it’s dogs and cats or parakeets and fish, we can’t get enough of our furry and gilled friends. Check out this great article on ways to save. Save Money on Pet Care with These 21 Tips...

Monday, April 10, 2023

Happy National Sibling Day! And whether you have fond or fraught memories of growing up together, how you relate to your siblings has a lot to do with how you manage your money. Check out this great article on how birth order affects your m

Wednesday, April 5, 2023

The road to better health may sometimes involve an extra expense here and there, but you should be careful about wasting money on diet ideas with promises that are more based on myth than fact.

Wednesday, March 22, 2023

When events like Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) and Signature Bank happen, it's natural to wonder how a bank safeguards your funds. Fortunately, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) insurance was designed for this very reason:...

Wednesday, March 15, 2023

We wanted to share a quick update in light of the recent news about Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) and discuss our thoughts on its impact on the markets and future Fed moves.What happened?Regulators seized the assets of SVB on Friday, March...

Thursday, March 2, 2023

After arranging your accounts and property with an attorney or setting up retirement accounts, it’s easy to assume that you check those off your list forever. Unfortunately, it’s not as simple. Not only do tax laws frequently change, but so

Thursday, March 2, 2023

Having an estate strategy puts you in charge of life's important decisions. Click HERE to watch a short video on the 4 basic elements of an Estate Strategy: 

Monday, February 27, 2023

Are you saving for the future?People often come to me asking for financial guidance. Some want to know how to invest or diversify the money they’ve saved, but others admit to me they’re just not sure how to save. If...

Monday, February 20, 2023

Pursuing your retirement dreams is challenging enough without making some common, and very avoidable, mistakes. Here are eight big mistakes to steer clear of, if possible.

Monday, February 13, 2023

When you created your investment strategy, your asset allocation should have reflected your goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. But over time, any of those three factors may have changed, and your portfolio may now need adjustment

Friday, February 10, 2023

Everyone’s favorite sports holiday is around the corner … Superbowl Sunday!Not only does the big game significantly impact the overall economy, but the Super Bowl has long-lasting effects on the economy of the hosting...

Monday, February 6, 2023

Healthcare can be one of the priciest yet essential parts of life’s journey. And yet, many struggle to utilize the financial tools that may help. Take Health Saving Accounts (HSAs), for example.In 2019, 55% of those with HSAs...

Monday, January 30, 2023

January 30 to February 3, 2023, is Identity Theft Awareness Week. Anytime is a good time to tighten up your identity security, but if you haven’t been as careful as you intended, consider this your annual reminder. Here are a few...

Wednesday, January 18, 2023

Stop Wasting MoneyBenjamin Franklin once said, “a penny saved is a penny earned.” One way to find the money to meet your spending or saving needs is to examine your current spending habits and consider eliminating money...

Sunday, January 15, 2023

Bad things happen to the best of us, and sometimes it seems like they come in waves. That's when an emergency cash fund can come in handy.

Sunday, January 8, 2023

In the final days of 2022, Congress passed a new set of retirement rules designed to make it easier to contribute to retirement plans and access those funds earmarked for retirement.

Sunday, January 1, 2023

Following a budget is one of the essential steps to securing your financial future. Coming out of the holidays always creates an opportunity to review your budget and refocus. Not only that, inflation has skyrocketed to levels not seen...