Financial Topics
Find timely, insightful and exclusive content written by CFP® professionals covering important and popular financial planning topics focused on consumer interests.
Latest Articles

How to Financially Manage Sudden Wealth
So, you’re anticipating sudden wealth. Maybe this windfall will be from a lawsuit settlement, business sale, stock options or an inheritance. Although each form of sudden wealth has unique financial, tax and legal quirks, all forms of sudden wealth share some common characteristics. I’ve been working with sudden wealth recipients for over 25 years. Here’s what you need to know to financially manage sudden wealth.

Advice on Setting up Your First 401(k) as a Business Owner
Your business has grown and now it’s time to establish a 401(k) retirement plan. A 401(k) provides an efficient and easy way for you and your employees to save for retirement. Not to mention there are some great tax incentives too! You can choose from a variety of retirement plans, and each carries its own benefits. Read on for some advice as you dive into setting up your first 401(k) and becoming a fiduciary.

5 Options for Business Succession
If you’re a business owner, you may soon face a challenging decision: how to approach succession. This decision affects your family, your employees, your customers, your creditors, your wealth, your financial plan and your legacy. Understand that succession will come, whether you plan it or not. Here are five basic options for business succession planning; close the business, maintain ownership with others managing, sell or gift business to family, sell or gift to employees, or sell to a third party.
Life Stages
Talking with a CFP® professional can help you find a path to achieving your financial goals, no matter where you are in life. A financial planning professional is trained to work with you on everything from providing financial advice to creating a holistic financial plan that is designed to support your goals as they evolve over the years.
CFP® professionals meet rigorous financial planning education, experience and ethical standards, and they have made a commitment to CFP Board to act in your best interests, at all times when providing you financial advice or financial planning services, to help you reach your financial goals for a more secure tomorrow.
Starting Out
It’s never too early to get on the path to reach your financial goals. A CFP® professional can equip you with the tools to start out on the right foot.
Settling Down
Don’t tackle life’s big decisions alone. Start building a relationship with a CFP® professional who can help you create a roadmap to achieve your financial goals.
Entering Midlife
Is long-term planning on your mind? Seek advice from a CFP® professional to help you prioritize your financial planning to-do list.
Near Retirement
You’ve maxed out your 401(k) and paid off your mortgage, so you’re ready to retire... right? Consult a CFP® professional to see if you’re on track to make the most of your golden years.
Enjoying Retirement
It’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. This means more free time with friends, family and hobbies. But don’t cancel plans to meet with your CFP® professional. Keep checking in to tie up loose ends and see if your financial plan is running smoothly.