Mendel Money Management

A client recently asked, “Should I move all my money to cash since the market’s been so unpredictable?” It’s a fair question—when things feel uncertain, the instinct to play it safe is strong. But here’s the reality: Market ups and downs are normal. If you try to time the market, you risk missing the rebound. Historically, some of the best market days happen right after the worst ones. Missing just a few of those key days can have a huge impact on long-term growth. Instead of making emotional decisions, the key is having a strategy that balances risk, opportunity, and your personal goals. If the market’s been stressing you out, let’s talk through it. A smart, steady plan beats panic every time. ?? Schedule a call: https://lnkd.in/eJ7Edw3P #SmartInvesting #MarketVolatility #MendelMoney

Can You Deduct Your IRA Contribution for 2025? ?? IRA contribution rules can get tricky, but this handy flowchart helps break it down! Here’s what to consider: ? Do you (or your spouse) have earned income? ? Have you already contributed to a Roth IRA? ? Are you (or your spouse) covered by a workplace retirement plan? ? What’s your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI)? Your eligibility for a full, partial, or no deduction depends on these factors. Use the chart to see where you stand before making your 2024 IRA contribution! Still unsure? We can walk through it together. ?? Schedule a call: https://lnkd.in/eJ7Edw3P #IRADeductions #RetirementPlanning #TaxSmartInvesting #MendelMoney

That’s what a client told me recently after we mapped out her retirement plan. She had been hesitant about working with a financial planner—worried about what we’d uncover, afraid she wasn’t “doing enough.” But after just a few months together, she saw the reality: Waiting even a little longer would have meant saving 30% of her income just to stay on track. Nobody wants to be scrimping in their later years because they put off planning. And honestly? Most people I meet with are actually in a better position than they thought. Now, instead of stressing about whether she’s saving “enough,” this client can book that extra vacation and throw her granddaughter a beautiful graduation party—without guilt, without second-guessing. Wouldn’t it feel good to know you can spend freely, without worrying if you’re making a mistake? If that peace of mind sounds good to you, we should talk. ?? Schedule a call: https://lnkd.in/eJ7Edw3P #RetirementPlanning #FinancialConfidence #MendelMoney

Don’t Miss These Key Retirement Contribution Deadlines! ??? Still need to make your IRA or Roth IRA contribution for 2024? You’re in luck—you still have time! The deadline to contribute for the 2024 tax year is April 15, 2025. And for those with a Solo 401(k), the contribution deadline is coming up fast: ?? March 15, 2025 (or September 15 if you file an extension). Max contributions for 2024: ?? Up to 100% of compensation/earned income ?? Capped at $69,000 (or $76,500 if you’re 50+) If you’re unsure about your max contribution, check with your accountant—and we’re happy to assist in making sure you complete your contribution before the deadline. Need help? Schedule a quick call with Alex Wasiunec: ?? https://lnkd.in/ehicbsYG Don’t leave money on the table—secure your retirement savings today! #RetirementPlanning #IRASavings #Solo401k #MendelMoney

How long can you live off your savings? Watch the 3-minute YouTube video below.

This episode of the Mendel Money Minute delves into the liquid term metric, a crucial element of personal financial monitoring. The liquid term metric indicates how long an individual can sustain themselves solely on their liquid assets, given their current spending patterns. These liquid assets are typically earmarked for short-term financial goals like buying a home, renovating a property, or purchasing a new vehicle. Watch the video at the link here to find out more: https://lnkd.in/e9gjFZ89 ?? Reach out to work with Mendel Money Management today: 847-564-0970 #PersonalFinance #FinancialPlanning #MoneyManagement

Stay ahead with Mendel Money – sign up for our newsletter! Curious about what’s happening in the markets? Wondering about key financial updates for 2025? Each month, our Mendel Money Newsletter delivers expert insights straight to your inbox. In January’s edition, we covered: ? Estate planning opportunities for 2025 ? How to plan a wedding without breaking the bank ? A 2024 market recap and what to expect in 2025 This is just a preview of what we share each month! Get financial updates, market insights, and practical strategies—delivered directly to you. ?? Sign up now and never miss an update! mendelmoney.com #FinancialPlanning #MarketInsights #MendelMoney #StayInformed

Did you know that 34% of partnered Americans* identify money as a source of conflict in their relationship? Which is why we want to make sure your love and money are working together, not against each other. Talking openly about finances can help build trust, reduce stress, and set you up for a future that feels aligned. Here are a few financial topics worth discussing with your partner: ?? Shared financial goals – Are you both on the same page about major milestones like buying a home, traveling, or saving for retirement? ?? Spending & saving habits – Do your money styles complement each other, or is there room for adjustment? ?? Debt & credit – Being open about financial obligations helps avoid surprises down the road. ?? Emergency & retirement planning – It’s never too early to talk about financial security for the future. Love and money don’t have to be a tricky mix. A thoughtful plan can help you and your partner feel more confident about your future—together. ?? Need help aligning your financial goals? We’re here to guide you. ?? Schedule a call here: https://lnkd.in/eJ7Edw3P #FinancialPlanning #MendelMoney *According to a 2024 Ipsos poll

In this Mendel Money Minute, we discuss real estate term (RT), a key element in our Elements program. RT helps clients track their progress toward financial goals by assessing how many years they could live off the value of their real estate. We explore the risks associated with having a significant portion of net worth tied up in real estate and offer guidance on maintaining a balanced portfolio. https://lnkd.in/e9ZsTH2n

Is your net worth too concentrated in your small business? How many years can you live off the value of that business? Explore all this and more with Brad Mendel as he discusses the concept of the Business Term using the financial tracking tool, Elements. ?? Reach out to work with Mendel Money Management today: 847-564-0970 https://lnkd.in/eUbVxFmi