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Today we gather with loved ones and reflect on the things we’re most grateful for. From the health of our loved ones to the support of our families, friends, and colleagues, there’s so much to be thankful for. As we look back on the year, we’re grateful to our clients for letting us be part of their financial journeys. Here’s to a future filled with hope and prosperity for all. From our families to yours, we wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving.

Did you know that for every $100 spent at a locally owned business, $68 recirculates and remains in the local economy, according to a 2024 report by Sustainable Connections? By contrast, the study found that only $43 stays local when spent at a national chain. As we gear up for the holiday shopping season, remember that Black Friday is just around the corner on November 29, followed by Small Business Saturday on November 30! This weekend presents an opportunity to support our local economy. Why not kick off your holiday shopping by grabbing a coffee from that local café, picking up a unique gift from the boutique down the street, or trying out that restaurant you’ve been meaning to visit? What’s your favorite local small business? Give them a shout-out in the comments! #BlackFriday #SmallBusinessSaturday #ShopLocal #CommunityMatters

As Thanksgiving approaches, families gather to celebrate gratitude. But it's also an opportune moment for a crucial conversation: discussing finances with aging parents. As financial professionals, we've seen too many families postpone this "Money Talk." Sound familiar? Don't wait. Your parents will appreciate your concern, and addressing this now can benefit everyone in the long run. Here's our guidance to navigate this important discussion: 1?? Timing is Key: It's easier to discuss personal finances when there's no immediate pressure. 2?? Set the Right Tone: Frame the conversation around helping them maintain independence, not taking control. 3?? Come Prepared: Familiarize yourself with their potential concerns–healthcare costs and living arrangements. 4?? Use 'I' Statements: "I want to make sure I understand your wishes." To some, that sounds better than, "You need to tell me about your finances." 5?? Start Broad: Begin with general questions before diving into specifics. 6?? Be Patient: This may not be a one-and-done conversation. It may take several talks to build an understanding. 7?? Recognize Their Experience: Acknowledge the wisdom they've accumulated over the years. 8?? Suggest a Family Finance Day: Propose a day where the family openly discusses financial matters, making it a normal topic. Remember, the goal is to help your parents feel supported, not scrutinized. Every family's situation is unique, and there's no one-size-fits-all approach. For personalized strategies, our team can help guide these sensitive conversations. #FamilyFinances #RetirementTalk #ElderCare

Relationships > Ego Sometimes, saying 'I'm sorry' isn't about right or wrong. It's about choosing to prioritize the well-being of your relationships over the need to be right and defend your pride. #EmotionalIntelligence #Inspirational #Empathy

As financial professionals, we're used to crunching numbers. But what if I told you the most valuable review doesn't involve a single spreadsheet? ?? This year, I'm challenging myself (and you!) to conduct a personal year-end review that goes beyond finances. Here's a sneak peek at my top three reflection points: ?? Celebrating wins (big and small) ?? Skill evolution ?? Gratitude check Why? Because true financial well-being is intrinsically linked to overall life satisfaction and personal growth. Want to join me in giving yourself a year-end review? Reach out to our office! #YearEndReview #PersonalGrowth #FinancialWellbeing

?? Think it's too late for an affordable Thanksgiving getaway? The latest travel trends might surprise you! Here's what's catching our attention: International escapes are looking especially attractive: ?? Tokyo flights from Charlotte: $776 (34% less than last year!) ?? Caribbean getaways starting at $330 from NYC ?? Costa Rica adventures from LA under $350 Even domestic travel has some hidden gems: ?? Denver to Boston under $200 ?? Dallas to Hawaii starting at $358 ?? NYC to Miami below $150 Pro tip: This holiday season is shaping up to be the busiest ever, with travel interest spiking 9% even before recent events. The window for Christmas booking sweet spots is open right now! #TravelDeals #HolidayTravel #TravelTips #Wanderlust #InternationalTravel Source: https://lnkd.in/eP6ZMtmH

???? There's something magical about putting on an apron before creating a holiday feast. It's akin to transforming everyday cooking into something extraordinary. Today's kitchen warriors are embracing everything from vintage-inspired pieces that echo grandmother's flour-dusted ruffles to sleek, professional designs spotted on shows like "The Bear." These aren't just protective garments - they're wearable stories, connecting us to centuries of family feasts and kitchen wisdom. ?? Across the globe, the humble apron speaks different languages: Japanese maekake brings workwear elegance, Portuguese patterns tell tales of seaside tascas, and modern designers blend practicality with artistic flair. Each style carries its own promise of creativity and comfort. Whether you're preparing your first Thanksgiving feast or continuing a generations-old tradition, these simple pieces of cloth do more than guard against spills - they wrap us in the warm embrace of culinary heritage. #ThanksgivingTraditions #KitchenHeritage #CookingCulture #FamilyMemories #HolidayCooking https://lnkd.in/ejE3pNXC

Important updates about Medicare Part B premiums for next year: The standard monthly premium is increasing to $185.00, up $10.30 from 2024. Key changes to know: Monthly premium: $185.00 (up from $174.70) Annual deductible: $257 (up from $240) This change affects both automatic deductions and manual payments. It's worth noting that these adjustments reflect typical healthcare cost trends and usage patterns. Higher-income beneficiaries may see different premium amounts based on their specific situation. Remember: These changes take effect in January 2025. If you're receiving Social Security benefits, adjustments will happen automatically. #MedicareCoverage #Retirement #HealthcareCosts #SeniorCare https://lnkd.in/gANqc_cZ

As December 31 approaches, don't forget to check your pre-tax health accounts: 1?? FSA (Flexible Spending Account): ? Review your balance ? Consider using the remaining funds for eligible expenses ? Remember: many FSAs have a "use it or lose it" policy 2?? HSA (Health Savings Account): ? Check your year-to-date contributions ? Consider adjusting your contribution amount in 2025 if appropriate ? Remember: 1) HSAs roll over, and 2) contribution limits reset annually Any money withdrawn from your HSA for a nonmedical reason is considered taxable income and faces an additional 20% penalty. This penalty is void after age 65; however, withdrawals would still become taxable income. Remember, once you start Medicare, you can no longer contribute pre-tax dollars to your health savings account (HSA). 3?? DCFSA (Dependent Care FSA): ? Verify your balance ? Don’t forget to submit receipts for eligible expenses (you have until April 30, 2025, but it's best to stay on top of these things) Take a few moments to check up on any FSA accounts and HSA before the year ends. #HealthSavings #TaxStrategy #FSA #HSA #YearEndStrategy

?? 4 things you may not know about Social Security 1?? In February 2024, the average Social Security retirement benefit was around $1,862 per month or $22,344 per year, according to a May update from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. 2?? Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for Social Security benefits at any age. For example, if you are the spouse, child, or dependent parent of a deceased worker. 3?? Benefits can increase with age. You can increase your Social Security benefits by delaying benefits until age 70. 4?? It can get complicated: Understanding Social Security can be tricky due to factors like earnings limits, spousal benefits, and survivor benefits. Don’t take Social Security for granted. Understand the details and create a personalized strategy that works for you. A financial professional can help. #SocialSecurity #Retirement #FinancialProfessional