Entries by Donna

10 Things That Can Help Prepare for Retirement

 Financial security in retirement doesn’t just happen. It takes planning, commitment and, yes, money. FACTS: Only 40 percent of Americans have calculated how much they need to save for retirement. 30 percent of private industry workers with access to a defined contribution plan (such as a 401(k) plan) does not participate. The average American spends […]

Best Accounts to Save for Education Expenses

Parents and students who are currently completing the FAFSA and learning about financial aid may be kicking themselves for not having a better plan in place to pay for college. When it comes to college costs, a little planning can go a long way. There are several useful ways to save money for your child’s college education, each of which […]

Only 4 Things You Can Do With Your Money

During my years at Lighthouse Financial Advisors, I’ve learned (and from only the BEST), that there are actually only “4 Things You Can Do With Your Money”: Taxes – not a choice, we MUST pay our taxes! Tax planning is critical throughout the year with our clients. Being aware of your current tax situation allows […]

Cyber Fraud

Threats to Data Security Intensify every hour, technology continues to evolve, changing the way we lead our lives. Unfortunately, cyber criminals are evolving just as fast, developing new ways to separate people from their assets. While the most common tactics used to compromise a victim’s identity or login credentials are long-time nemeses such as malware, […]

Charitable Giving & Tax Planning

There are many ways to share your wealth. Following IRS rules can even give you a nice reduction in your annual tax bill. Tax planning allows you to give more to your favorite charity and maximize tax deductions. Cash/Check donations – always remember to keep good records of your donations and get receipts. Canceled checks […]

Eduation Savings

“Back-To-School” is a good time of the year to think about saving for your children’s and grandchildren’s education.  There are several types of education accounts that you can choose from. We can help you plan education savings that may be right for you! Here are some facts about the different accounts:   529 Accounts – […]

Helpful Hints in Preparing for a Meeting with a Financial Advisor

A Financial Advisor can help you to navigate your financial waters. Meeting with a Financial Advisor is an important opportunity to discuss your financial goals, any changes that may occur and when ready, prepare for retirement. Listed below are some helpful tips on how to prepare for a meeting with a Financial Advisor. Write down […]

The Cost of Doing Your Own Taxes

Doing your own taxes is frustrating: finding the forms, deciphering the instructions, finding your paperwork, doing the math, figuring out what needs to be attached, worrying about a tax audit.    What you may not realize is that doing your own taxes also costs you money. It costs you money because you don’t know all the […]

Gloria

Gloria was born in Brooklyn, NY. Growing up Gloria attended Woodbridge Township schools, was a member of the US Cadet Corp from 1943-45 and graduated from Norwegian Hospital School of Nursing in 1945.  Gloria later earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees at Jersey City State College where she also served as an adjunct instructor for several […]

Helene & Ted

Ted and Helene just celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary and are having the time of their lives. Ted is 75 and Helene 73 years young….and “young” they are! Helene began her working career while still in HS.  She worked at a local bank in the bookkeeping department & within a year she moved to a […]