Picture this scene: your child’s friend is over at your house, they’re playing on the trampoline and things are getting a little rowdy. Your child’s friend lands wrong, breaks their ankle and is rushed to the hospital. Their parents, who had always been pleasant and seemingly reasonable, now blame you for the incident and have decided to sue you for negligence. Without an umbrella policy in place, you face significant risk to your assets and financial security.
Life Transitions: Getting Married
Getting married is the start of something exciting and should be a joyful time. You’ve found the love of your life and it’s safe to assume that thinking through the financial risks of merging assets is an uncomfortable subject between you and your spouse.
At the same time, there are practical matters that you should discuss during your engagement period to prepare for the unexpected. Communication is key to setting yourselves up financially and legally for whatever life sends your way.
Tips on Moving for Tax Reasons
If you live in a high income tax state such as Oregon, California or New York, you’re probably not happy about the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 capping your state and local income tax deductions at $10,000. Many people who were taking advantage of these deductions found their tax bill to be higher after the legislation passed. If nothing is tying you to where you currently live, such as a job or family, you may consider moving to a lower tax state.
Interest Rates and How They Relate to Your Mortgage
When it comes to interest rates in relation to your credit card, student loan or home mortgage, you probably know the interest rate is the price you’re paying to borrow money. But when you hear about interest rates in the headlines, what kind of rates are they talking about? And if rates are moving up, what does this mean for your mortgage or other lines of credit?
The answer isn’t simple.
Investing in Real Estate: Is It Right for You?
Have you ever felt the rush of excitement when a friend mentions she recently purchased an investment property? You immediately start dreaming of passive income pouring in on a monthly basis (aka, someone else paying your mortgage) and soon you’re calling your friend’s real estate agent.
