Broker Check

Blog

Welcome to the Agate Financial Partners blog.

What's on your mind? Changes in tax laws, financial wellness, and wealth planning can affect you as you prepare for retirement. Our blog will keep you up to date on things you need to know.  And occasionally, we may have a little fun and share news and information about our community. Please keep checking in, and we hope you enjoy it!

Wednesday, May 13, 2026

Why Is This Conversation So Important Right Now? The U.S. is in the middle of a sustained demographic shift. More than 61 million adults are aged 65 and older as of 2025, and that number is projected to reach approximately 82 million...

Tuesday, April 14, 2026

Social Security decisions are often framed as a single question: “When should I start drawing benefits?”That question matters, but it can also be limiting. The better question is: how does Social Security fit into my overall retirement...

Thursday, April 2, 2026

If you are a parent of a teen or young adult, how do you teach them to make confident money decisions before the stakes are high?Teaching teens and young adults about money is less about formal instruction and more about repeated...

Monday, March 23, 2026

Key TakeawaysHere are some questions this blog aims to answer:How can parents or grandparents help with a down payment for adult children?What are ways to gift a down payment, and how do the annual gift tax exclusion and lifetime...

Monday, March 2, 2026

Key TakeawaysHow much wealth are women on track to control in the next decade, and why does that matter?What does the life expectancy gap between women and men mean for how long money needs to last?How common is it for women to be...

Show All

Tuesday, February 24, 2026

Key TakeawaysTreat tax strategy as a continuous process, not a once-a-year filing exercise.Coordinate with financial and tax professionals throughout the year to identify opportunities for efficiency.Review contribution limits,...

Wednesday, February 11, 2026

Key TakeawaysEmotions and biases might influence financial choices more often than most people realize.Behavioral patterns, such as loss aversion, familiarity bias, and herd mentality, can impact long-term results.Recognizing emotional...

Thursday, January 29, 2026

Artificial intelligence (AI) may be the most revolutionary technology of our time, with industries scrambling to embrace its possibilities. AI’s early influence seems similar to the positive disruptions brought about by past...

Tuesday, January 6, 2026

As we begin a new year and consider the opportunities ahead, reflecting on the past year helps put today’s financial landscape into perspective and informs the strategies that can move us closer to our goals.2025 was a year marked by...

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Key Takeaways and Suggestions for Successful Goal Setting Use SMART Goals for Clarity and FocusSet goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This proven method helps break big ambitions into manageable...

Tuesday, December 2, 2025

Key Takeaways A third of annual donations: About one-third of all charitable contributions are made in December. Donating before December 31 may offer tax advantages. New rules starting in 2026 (via the OBBB Act) may affect deductions...

Wednesday, November 19, 2025

Key Takeaways Caring for aging parents is a growing reality for many Americans. The number of family caregivers in the U.S. has jumped to 63 million, a 45 percent increase over the past decade, making 1 in every 4 Americans a...

Thursday, November 6, 2025

You’ve likely seen headlines comparing today’s AI-driven market to the late 1990s dot-com era. Those headlines can be concerning, and we take those comparisons seriously. Let’s take a look at what’s different today, what deserves...

Tuesday, November 4, 2025

Key Takeaways Year-end holidays may be a good time to initiate a discussion about financial matters that may impact your family. If you have adult children, you may want to discuss your financial situation, estate strategy, and legal...

Wednesday, October 15, 2025

Receiving a bonus, inheritance, or an increase in income often prompts a key financial question: Should I use this money to pay off my mortgage, or invest it? At first glance, the answer might seem simple. But in reality, it requires...

Wednesday, October 1, 2025

If you’ve found yourself stepping into a more active role in your parents’ financial lives, you’re not alone. Some of us are helping aging parents navigate everything from healthcare decisions to bill payments—and increasingly, we’re...

Thursday, September 18, 2025

The final months of the year can sneak up quickly, and with them come deadlines, decisions, and distractions. Before the holiday season takes over your calendar, fall can be a valuable window to revisit your financial strategy and...

Tuesday, September 2, 2025

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (TCJA) included lower federal income tax brackets, bigger standard deductions, and higher gift and estate tax exemptions, among other provisions. The law stipulated that some of those tax breaks would...

Wednesday, August 27, 2025

Estate management isn’t just about what happens after you’re gone— it’s also about what you can do now to help manage future estate taxes, transfer wealth strategically, and attempt to create a meaningful impact during your lifetime....

Wednesday, August 13, 2025

The rules regarding inherited IRAs have changed in the last five years, and failing to comply with the new requirements may result in IRS penalties. These changes affect people inheriting IRAs and those looking to leave retirement...

Tuesday, July 22, 2025

Compensation is more than just a number on a paycheck. Whether you're exploring new opportunities, preparing for a promotion, or evaluating your current benefits, it’s important to understand the full value of your total...

Wednesday, July 9, 2025

While you may follow the various stock indexes on the nightly business news, how much do you know about their histories, how they work, and why they're important? We pulled together some information and interesting facts about some of...

Wednesday, June 25, 2025

You’ve likely spent years building your retirement nest egg—saving diligently, investing wisely, and contributing to retirement accounts along the way. But transitioning from earning a paycheck to relying on your savings can feel...

Wednesday, June 11, 2025

Despite those who say the conventional wisdom that has guided investor actions over the years is no longer valid in 2025, remember the famous quote from legendary investor Sir John Templeton: "The four most dangerous words in investing...

Tuesday, May 27, 2025

It’s graduation season—a time of celebration and new beginnings. For families with college seniors, this time can bring both excitement and uncertainty. While some graduates have jobs lined up, many others still are navigating job...

Wednesday, May 14, 2025

As summer approaches, your thoughts may drift toward escaping your daily routine. Whether your idea of a perfect vacation is sitting on a pristine beach, fishing in a mountain lake, or playing the back nine between pickleball matches,...

Wednesday, April 16, 2025

April is a pivotal time in the college admissions process. After years of preparation, saving, and investing—not to mention the countless hours spent on exam prep, campus visits, and perfecting applications and essays—the finish line...

Tuesday, April 1, 2025

April isn’t just about filing taxes—it’s also Financial Literacy Month, a perfect opportunity to reflect on your financial habits, expand your knowledge, and take meaningful steps toward improving your financial well-being. Whether...

Tuesday, March 25, 2025

One of the greatest gifts you can give your loved ones is a thoughtful estate strategy that outlines your wishes after you are gone. Discussing estate details with your team of professionals is another way to help manage your legacy...

Tuesday, March 11, 2025

March is Women’s History Month, and according to a recent survey, 49% of women consider themselves to be the chief financial officer of their households, up from 41% in 2021.1 Those numbers are even more impressive when you consider...

Wednesday, February 26, 2025

You've worked hard throughout your life to build assets to support your retirement. As financial professionals, one of the most critical functions we provide is helping clients determine their retirement income needs and structuring a...

Monday, February 17, 2025

Don’t Be A Victim Of The Retirement Crisis If you think the United States has a retirement crisis, you are not alone. A recent survey found that 79% of working-age Americans believe the same thing. That percentage is up from 67% in...

Tuesday, February 11, 2025

Tax season brings a new wave of identity theft risks, with criminals ready to exploit your personal data to file fraudulent tax returns in your name. Imagine the shock of discovering that a criminal beat you to filing your...

Friday, February 7, 2025

Divorce is one of the most stressful life events. Even the most amicable splits can be complicated and emotionally draining. We likely all know couples who have gone through divorce, and it can be a trying time for everyone involved....

Thursday, February 6, 2025

Wednesday, January 15, 2025

Social Security is often misunderstood or underestimated in retirement strategy. However, as financial professionals, we've seen how it can play a crucial role in our clients' overall financial strategy, regardless of their income...

Wednesday, January 1, 2025

Looks like New Year's resolutions are still going strong in 2025! A recent Pew survey found that about a third of Americans kicked off the year with at least one resolution, and many people actually went for multiple goals. It's...

Wednesday, December 18, 2024

As we approach the end of 2024, it's an opportune time to reflect on the year's financial developments and consider what 2025 may bring. We believe in understanding both the past and potential future of our economic landscape, which...

Wednesday, December 11, 2024

As you approach retirement, a critical aspect of your retirement strategy can catch even the most financially savvy individuals off guard: healthcare costs. For decades, you may have enjoyed employer-sponsored health insurance. As...

Thursday, November 21, 2024

Financial professionals typically have a year-round focus on monetary goals and wealth management strategies. However, we also believe that true financial well-being is intrinsically linked to your overall life satisfaction and...

Wednesday, November 6, 2024

America is a generous country. People with diverse backgrounds can unite for a good cause, whether to benefit their local communities or the broader world. As we enter the holiday season, now is a great time to think about your giving...

Tuesday, October 22, 2024

As financial professionals, we’ve noticed a trend among our clients: an increasing interest in electric vehicles (EVs). To help address some of your questions, we’ve compiled this high-level guide to provide insights into the...

Tuesday, October 8, 2024

Statistics show that nearly 33% of Americans have faced some identity theft attempts in their lives, and experts estimate there is a new case of identity theft every 22 seconds. As financial professionals, one of our primary goals is...

Wednesday, September 18, 2024

The Impact of Elections on the Markets and Tax Policy With Labor Day behind us, we're in the final stretch of the 2024 presidential election race. As we follow the news and parse the most recent polls, some may ask, "How might what...

Thursday, September 5, 2024

As we approach the 2024 presidential election, some may wonder about its potential impact on their finances. While elections are undoubtedly important, we’ve done some homework and come to the following conclusion: you may care...

Tuesday, September 3, 2024

The IRS has released final regulations on Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) for inherited IRAs.

Tuesday, August 27, 2024

College Corner Issue | Q3 2024 As Summer draws to a close and pool noodles everywhere breathe a sigh of relief, it's time to consider one of the most exciting milestones for many families: Attending Higher Education. In this edition...

Tuesday, August 13, 2024

When I meet with people, one of the first topics we discuss is "emergency fund" money. I ask a few questions, such as, “Do you have any funds set aside?”, “Where is it located?”, and, most importantly, “What would trigger you to tap...

Tuesday, August 6, 2024

Recently I came across an intriguing snapshot comparing two of America's preferred investment avenues— stocks and savings accounts. This image below is a hypothetical example used for illustrative purposes only. It is not...

Tuesday, July 30, 2024

Most Americans want to age in place and spend their retirement years comfortably. According to Forbes, 77% of people 50 and over said aging in place was their preference. However, statistics show over half of people aged 65 will...

Tuesday, July 23, 2024

Maximizing Benefits Before Tax Cut Provisions Expire The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (TCJA) made some of the most consequential tax law changes in decades. The most significant provision temporarily increased the unified lifetime...

Friday, July 12, 2024

Most Americans want to age in place and spend their retirement years comfortably. According to Forbes, 77% of people 50 and over said aging in place was their preference. However, statistics show over half of people aged 65 will...

Tuesday, July 9, 2024

Average Spending per Pet Household Estimated to Be $1,733 in 2024, Led by Vet Costs Many Americans have a pet who they consider to be part of the family. But dog and cat owners don’t always anticipate how much the related expenses...

Tuesday, July 2, 2024

Have you seen the grocery store signs that say, “Buy one, get one,” or “Buy one at $4.99, or get four for $2.99 each?” It’s a concept called “spaving,” a time-tested marketing strategy designed to get consumers to spend more–perhaps...

Tuesday, June 25, 2024

We get regular updates on the Social Security trust fund. In early May, the Social Security Board of Trustees announced that the trust funds had revenue to pay full benefits until 2035. Generally speaking, the headline’s tone is very...

Monday, June 17, 2024

Economic & Financial Indicators That are Forward-Looking Six to Nine Months • Global economic outlook improving, US growth prospects remain more positive. • Fed rate hiking cycle over, policy headwinds expected to moderate. • Consumer...

Saturday, June 8, 2024

How to Prepare for Retirement Living Transitioning into retirement can be both exciting and challenging. After years of hard work, you finally have the opportunity to relax and enjoy what are often called your “golden years.” This...

Monday, June 3, 2024

Did you know the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is scheduled to sunset in 2026? Here’s what’s at stake if the act is allowed to expire: for wealthy families, the $25.84 million federal estate tax exemption (as of 2023 for a married couple)...

Tuesday, May 28, 2024

6 Questions to Ask When Planning for Retirement Financial security in retirement doesn’t happen by accident. Planning for a financially independent retirement involves more than just putting money away into a savings account and...

Tuesday, May 21, 2024

Discover the benefits of Medicare Advantage plans and how they can provide you with additional health insurance coverage, including features like prescription drug plans and coverage for dental, hearing, and vision insurance. Learn...

Monday, May 13, 2024

I don’t know about you, but every time I see headlines that say, “Top 10 Reasons” or “How Much Do You Need,” I click on it. So when I saw the CNBC article, “You’ll need at least $1 million to retire comfortably in these 10 U.S. States...

Monday, May 6, 2024

Client's value professional guidance in a time of uncertainty. Widespread anxiety and uncertainty about the future Market volatility and recession fears are changing investor behaviors More can be done to increase retirement...

Tuesday, April 16, 2024

As a business owner, you’re always on the lookout for tax strategies. One opportunity that often goes underutilized is the tax advantages offered by a well-structured 401(k) plan. Beyond its role in securing the future of your...

Tuesday, April 9, 2024

When you see hypothetical examples of stock market performance, the illustrations often use average annual returns of between 8% and 10%. But how often does the stock market return between 8% and 10%? Only four times in the past 76...

Wednesday, April 3, 2024

As you are building your wealth and saving for retirement, a Roth IRA could be a tax-advantaged solution for you to invest your money and boost your retirement savings. Money that goes into a Roth IRA is after-tax dollars. Because...

Wednesday, March 27, 2024

Direct File officially opens in 12 pilot states following positive early reviews; eligible taxpayers can file online directly with the IRS for free. Taxpayers encouraged to try innovative new option before April 15 deadline IR-2024-68,...

Wednesday, March 20, 2024

R-2024-53, Feb. 28, 2024 WASHINGTON — With millions of tax refunds going out each week, the Internal Revenue Service reminded taxpayers today that recent improvements to Where's My Refund? on IRS.gov provide more...

Tuesday, March 12, 2024

Tax season is upon us when we reconcile our dues with Uncle Sam. However, it's also a period when some unscrupulous individuals exploit this necessity, conducting scams to defraud unsuspecting taxpayers. In this digital age, tax scams...

Tuesday, March 5, 2024

Sir John Templeton once said, "The four most expensive words in investing are: ‘This time it’s different."1 And normally, I would agree. But it seems like the phrase, "This time it’s different," may actually apply to...

Tuesday, February 27, 2024

Wall Street keeps asking, “When will the Fed start cutting interest rates?” But perhaps the better question is, “What is the Fed looking for before it would consider cutting interest rates?” As you may recall,...

Tuesday, February 20, 2024

4 things to watch ahead of the U.S. elections This is the biggest election year in world history. Seventy-six countries — home to roughly 4.4 billion people — will hold political contests in 2024. You might...

Monday, February 12, 2024

Discover the key considerations in choosing Medicare coverage, including costs, coverage rules, doctor choices, and travel coverage, among others. Plus, learn how to protect yourself from the Medicare COVID Test Scam, which involves...

Wednesday, February 7, 2024

1. Tax-Free Withdrawals Money that goes into a Roth IRA is after-tax dollars. Because you've already paid taxes on that money, once it is withdrawn, it comes out tax-free. There are some restrictions on those withdrawals if you want...

Monday, January 29, 2024

Did you know you may be able to offset the start-up costs of a retirement plan for your business with a plan startup tax credit? This new provision of the tax code was designed to help businesses with up to 50 employees help their...

Wednesday, January 24, 2024

Find The Solution That Works For You You may have college debt, a mortgage and possibly a few credit cards dragging you down. If you're in need of a way to manage this debt, consider debt consolidation. Consolidating your debt can...

Tuesday, January 16, 2024

Mortgages, auto loans, credit cards: Expert predictions for interest rates in 2024 PUBLISHED WED, JAN 3 2024 | 10:44 AM EST | UPDATED WED, JAN 3 2024 | 11:33 AM EST | Jessica Dickler CNBC  KEY POINTS The Federal...

Wednesday, January 3, 2024

Time's Person of the Year, Taylor Swift, is shaking off economic downturns and hitting high notes not just on stage but in the U.S. economy, too. The pop sensation's impressive impact extends beyond her record-breaking music, reaching...

Tuesday, December 26, 2023

Cetera Investment Management is pleased to release its annual Market Outlook for 2024 titled, "The Fed: From Foe to Friend." In this outlook, they discuss how investors could be faced with some market volatility in 2024 with election...

Tuesday, December 19, 2023

For many women like you, being financially secure is an important goal, whether you’re married, single, working, or staying home with children. This financial independence can give you a certain level of empowerment and...

Tuesday, December 12, 2023

The Internal Revenue Service recently released updated income tax brackets, standard deduction, and retirement contribution limits for the 2024 tax year. While these taxes are not due for some time, it may benefit you to start...

Tuesday, November 21, 2023

How much are you withholding per paycheck?Is the amount too little? (Or too much?) Find out the answer before the year ends. You may not want to discover next year that your withholding amount for this year was too small. The IRS...

Tuesday, November 14, 2023

The Social Security Administration recently announced that over 71 million Americans, including Social Security and Supplemental Security Income beneficiaries, will receive a 3.2% increase in their benefits for 2024.1 However, it is...

Monday, September 18, 2023

If you're approaching retirement, you're probably already familiar with some common steps to help you save money, including contributing to your retirement savings plans and avoiding early withdrawals or overly conservative investing...

Thursday, September 7, 2023

As we approach the back-to-school season, I wanted to discuss an important topic that might be on your mind: the cost of education. Whether you have children or grandchildren preparing for college or considering furthering your...

Friday, August 4, 2023

If you've heard CEOs mention "A.I." multiple times during second-quarter conference calls, you're not imagining it. There have been an astounding 1,072 mentions of A.I. (and counting) so far.1 Some believe that A.I. has the potential...

Tuesday, July 11, 2023

You already know that naming beneficiaries for your retirement accounts, life insurance policies and other assets is a critical component of estate planning. We want to call out a few common gaps we see in this process so you can avoid...

Tuesday, June 13, 2023

June is Pride Month, a time to celebrate. Pride serves as a reminder of our progress in fostering a society that embraces people of all orientations, identities, and expressions. It is a time for us to honor the contributions,...

Saturday, May 13, 2023

Start Creating Your Succession PlanAnd get your business ready for your retirement.You’ve worked for years building your business, hiring your employees, keeping up relationships with customers and running your company. But now...

Wednesday, April 12, 2023

Recently, you may have seen reports that the so-called “depletion date” for Social Security was adjusted. This refers to the predicted date when the long-running program will no longer be able to pay full benefits.Barring...

Thursday, March 16, 2023

When events like Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) and Signature Bank happen, it's natural to wonder how a bank safeguards your funds. Fortunately, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) insurance was designed for this very reason:...

Thursday, March 2, 2023

6 Questions to Ask When Planning for RetirementFinancial security in retirement doesn’t happen by accident. Planning for a financially independent retirement involves more than just putting money away into a savings account and...

Wednesday, February 15, 2023

In the final days of 2022, Congress passed a new set of retirement rules designed to make it easier to contribute to retirement plans and access those funds earmarked for retirement.The law is called SECURE 2.0, and it's a follow-up to...