Planning Article

August 2024 – By Shelley Lein CFP^®

One of the most powerful savings tools is a Health Savings Account. An HSA has better tax benefits than both Roth and pretax retirement savings accounts, provided the distributions are used for qualified medical expenses. If you meet the requirement of having a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP is a health plan with a deductible of at least $1600 for self or $3200 for family in 2024), it can be a tool to not only save on taxes but to provide for medical expense coverage in retirement.

Market Minute

August 2024 – By Scott Rosenquist CFA^®

Employment data for the month of July came in below expectations with 114,000 jobs added while the unemployment rate moved higher to 4.3% from 4.1% in the previous month. This is the fourth month in a row showing a higher unemployment rate although it is coming off a historically low base. The weak report raised questions about the strength of the economy and what it may mean for future monetary policy decisions. It is important to note that monthly economic reports are subject to revision and can be volatile month to month.

Planning Article

July 2024 – By Bob Veres

The Summer Olympic games are coming, from July 26 through August 11.  Paris is the host city, although many of the events will be happening in other French venues.  For example, the equestrian events will be held on the extensive grounds of Versailles, where the French kings decanted for their summer vacations.

Market Memo

July 2024 – By Kyle Rohrwasser

After being up in the air for the last few years the IRS has finally solidified its rules regarding Required Minimum Distributions “RMDs” and the 10-year rule for beneficiaries. Covid created lots of uncertainty, not only economically but also via tax rulings. Common changes came from the CARES Act that was enacted in March of 2020. Major changes of rules came in the form of extending RMD ages and creating a 10-year distribution rule.