Tri Planning

Investing with Confidence

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 19:08:00 GMT

In a time when many unscrupulous individuals are looking for opportunities to defraud investors, it is more important than ever to be educated about potential dangers. The following information is designed to explain:

Here at TRI Planning, we are affiliated with Osaic Wealth, Inc (“Osaic”) , which holds us accountable through annual audits and regular compliance approvals. During our annual audit, auditors have access to our business and personal bank account records to ensure that client checks have not been cashed. In addition, we are subject to surprise audits by FINRA, Osaic’s governing body. Audits are designed to ensure that each affiliated financial professional adheres to the rules and regulations determined by the industry for the protection of investors.

We do not custody assets.
This is a very important point to note. A financial professional has custody of assets when he/she has possession of client funds or securities or has any authority to obtain them. We do not have such authority. In other words, we do not hold your assets, nor do you make checks payable to us. In essence, we never take possession of the money you plan to invest, but, rather, we transmit your monies to the investment companies we have agreed to use for your personal situation. We only choose well-established, well-insured companies to be custodians of your assets.

“Red Flags”
To watch out for

Many Ponzi schemes share common characteristics. Look for these warning signs:

5 Questions
To ask before investing

When you consider your next investment opportunity, start with these five questions:

Source: SEC.gov

If you are aware of an investment opportunity that might be a Ponzi scheme, contact the SEC by phone at (800) 732-0330 or online at https://www.sec.gov/oiea/Complaint.html

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.

Securities and investment services offered through Osaic Wealth, Inc. (“Osaic”) , member FINRA/SIPC. Osaic is separately owned and any other entities and/or marketing names, products, or services referenced here are independent of Osaic . This communication is strictly intended for individuals residing in the states of OH, OK, and TX. No offers may be made or accepted from any resident outside the specific state(s) referenced. Neither Osaic nor its representatives provide tax or legal advice.

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10 Roth IRA Strategies to Hedge the Risk of Higher Taxes

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 19:07:00 GMT

The current tax environment and potential for higher tax rates in the future create an opportunity for tax-smart planning.

Since the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (TCJA), tax rates remain relatively low as compared to previous rates. However, a myriad of factors may suggest higher taxes soon. These include the expiration of most tax provisions in 2025, unprecedented federal budget deficits, and uncertain tax policy as a new administration and Congress gains hold in Washington

Investors may want to consider certain strategies to hedge against the risk of higher taxes, including using a Roth IRA conversion.

Roth accounts can offer certain tax advantages, such as providing tax-free income in retirement without required minimum distributions for the account owner. Roth income is also not considered part of the income calculation when determining the taxation of Social Security benefits, or if higher Medicare premiums apply.

Here are 10 Roth IRA strategies to consider:

Importance of expert advice

It’s important for investors to work with a tax professional or financial professional who has knowledge of their personal financial situation. A Roth conversion requires a thoughtful decision, since in most cases, taxable income is being generated on the transaction.

This article is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax, legal or investment planning advice as individual situations will vary. For specific advice about your situation, please consult with a tax professional or financial professional.

Securities and investment advisory services offered through Osaic Wealth, Inc. (“Osaic”) , member FINRA/SIPC. Insurance services offered by Gigi Lavergne are independent of Osaic . TRI Planning is not affiliated with Osaic or registered as a broker/dealer.

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Robo-Advisors vs. Human Financial Professionals

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 19:07:00 GMT

Investors have a choice today that they did not have a decade ago. They can seek investing and retirement guidance from a human financial professional or put their invested assets in the hands of a robo-advisor.

What exactly is a robo-advisor? Robo-advisors are a class of financial advisors that provide financial advice or investment management online with moderate to minimal human intervention. They offer digital financial advice based on mathematical rules or algorithms. Signing up walks the user through a series of questions, and based on their responses, creates portfolio choices for the investor. ¹

Which begs the question: why would you trust your finances to a robo-advisor?

Robo-advisors are an attractive option for those just starting out investing. Some robo-advisor accounts offer very low minimums and fees and can be a solution for younger investors who want to “set it and forget it.” ¹

Even so, less than 8% of investors responding to a survey from data analytics firm Hearts & Wallets said they had used a robo-advisor. Out of the $43 trillion in the North American wealth management market, an estimated $410 billion is invested with robo-advisors. That number may grow to $830 billion by 2024. ²

The inherent problem is robo-advisors lack the human element to ask questions and dig deeper. Investors in all life stages appreciate when a financial professional takes time to understand them and their situation. A software program struggles to gain that understanding, even with input from a questionnaire.

The closer you get to retirement age, the more challenges you may face with a robo-advisor. The software continues to evolve and understand retirement investing. After 50, people have financial concerns far beyond investment yields. Investment management does not equal retirement preparation, estate strategies, or risk management. ²

Many investors are taking advantage of a hybrid model that has emerged. Per the Hearts & Wallets research study, more than half of investors use robo-advisors only as an extension of their existing wealth manager. Once their balance reaches a certain threshold, investors may transition to working with an actual financial professional. ²

It appears the traditional approach of working with a human financial professional may be hard to disrupt. The opportunity to draw on experience by having a conversation with a professional who has seen his or her clients go through the whole arc of retirement is essential.

These responses point to uncertainty about the process of financial and retirement strategies. The process is quite worthwhile, quite illuminating, and quite helpful. It is not just about improving “the numbers,” it is also about discovering ways to sustain and enhance your quality of life.

Gigi Lavergne may be reached at (972) 546-0620 or gigi@triplanning.finance

This material was prepared by MarketingPro, Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note – investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting, or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax, or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, a, AND nd should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment.

Securities and investment advisory services offered through Osaic Wealth, Inc. (“Osaic”) , member FINRA/SIPC. Osaic is separately owned and other entities and/or marketing names, products, or services referenced her are independent of Osaic .

1. FORBES.COM, JULY 16, 2020
2. BUSINESSINSIDER.COM, SEPTEMBER 10, 2020

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Have 5 Years or Less to Retire?

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 18:55:00 GMT

Are you 5 years or less away from retiring? Do you know someone who has retired unsuccessfully? They’re either miserable or struggling with a very tight budget.

I work with my clients to build a foundation for a successful retirement. We talk about values and what’s important to them.

Of course, the earlier you can start building towards retirement the better, but for all of us late bloomers, it’s never too late to start building. Reach out to me today to get my 3 Pillars for Investing and, if you have less than 5 years until retirement, here are 5 things to do now:

No matter where you are in your retirement journey we have tools that can help guide you through the road blocks.

Call or email us today to schedule a complimentary review or just to get more information. We also provide educational workshops and would love to invite you to an upcoming event. Our number is 972-546-0620. Email to: info@triplanning.finance

IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES Securities and Investment Advisory services offered through Osaic Wealth, Inc (“Osaic”) , member FINRA / SIPC. Osaic is separately owned and other entities and/or marketing names, products or services referenced here are independent of Osaic . Certain insurance offered by Gigi Lavergne is independent of SagePoint Financial, Inc., which is not affiliated with Osaic . TRI Planning and Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University are not affiliated with Osaic . The information presented here is not specific to any individual’s personal circumstances. To the extent that this material concerns tax matters, it is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, by a taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed by law. Each taxpayer should seek independent advice from a tax professional based on his or her individual circumstances. These materials are provided for general information and educational purposes based upon publicly available information from sources believed to be reliable—we cannot assure the accuracy or completeness of these materials. The information in these materials may change at any time and without notice.

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