Connections: Mike Reynolds On Legacy Planning
Andy Reynolds recently interviewed Mike Reynolds, Member at Kinkead & Stilz, on Legacy Planning. Full interview below. How have family dynamics changed the way you approach estate planning compared to 10 or 20 years ago? Today we see a lot more blended families than we saw in the past. That means having conversations about […]
The Tax Life Cycle: How Physicians’ Tax Strategies Should Evolve Throughout Their Careers
The Tax Life Cycle: How Physicians’ Tax Strategies Should Evolve Throughout Their Careers One of the most common tax mistakes physicians make is using the same savings strategy throughout their careers. In reality, tax planning should evolve as your income changes. Thinking in terms of a “tax life cycle” can help you build wealth while […]
Beyond the Luxury Car: Avoiding the Costliest Financial Mistakes in Medicine
Physicians spend years mastering medicine, but many receive little formal education on personal finance. As a result, some of the most common physician financial mistakes occur during major career transitions from becoming an attending physician to preparing for retirement. The good news is that most of these mistakes are predictable and avoidable with thoughtful planning. […]
WATCH: Protecting Your Personal Data
One of our favorite clichés is “you’re only as strong as your weakest link.” In your financial life, cash flow, retirement contributions, and spending habits are all “links” that can make or break your plan. One link in personal finance that is often overlooked is data and credit security. While technology has brought major improvements […]
Ballast’s Trent Lakes Obtains CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® Certification
Ballast is proud to announce that Trent Lakes, Investments and Planning Strategist, has officially earned his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® certification, one of the most rigorous and respected credentials in the financial services industry. The CFP® designation requires meeting what the CFP Board calls the “Four E’s:” Education, Exam, Experience, and Ethics. Before a candidate […]
Beyond the 401k: Savings Opportunities You Might Not Have Considered
401(k) plans are valuable tools for employees at all income levels, but physicians often face limits on how much they can contribute, relative to their earnings. As a result, many doctors need additional strategies to build sufficient retirement savings and maintain their lifestyle after their work career. These strategies generally fall into two categories: tax […]
Medicare 101: What You Need to Know Before You Sign Up
Medicare 101: What You Need to Know Before You Sign Up Medicare specialist Richard McQuerry (17 years, founder of SilverBridge Insurance Solutions) cuts through the noise on Medicare — what’s covered, what’s not, and how to protect your retirement from unexpected medical bills. What we cover: Part A vs. Part B Why no out-of-pocket maximum […]
Safeguard Assets: Asset Protection Essentials for Doctors
For doctors, years of training, long hours, and personal sacrifice culminate in a rewarding profession, but also in increased visibility and liability. Asset protection isn’t about expecting the worst; it’s about planning wisely so your life’s work remains secure. Start with malpractice insurance The first and often most powerful line of defense. Carry robust […]
NIL Gives a Lesson in Time Value of Money
Most of the families we serve are not NCAA athletes at power conference schools, but many are fans and season ticket holders. They are more likely to be athletic boosters than athletic legends, starting with yours truly! But we all inhabit the same financial landscape and use the same tools to make decisions. I hope our families with […]
Tax-Efficient Charitable Giving Strategies: 3 Ways to Maximize Your Donations
Charitable giving doesn’t have to mean paying more in taxes. With strategic planning, you can maximize your philanthropic impact while reducing your tax burden. Whether you no longer itemize deductions, hold appreciated stock, or are in retirement, these three tax-efficient charitable giving strategies can help you donate more effectively while optimizing your tax situation. _____ […]
Top 5 Considerations When Making a Career Change
1. Fit Check Making a switch should not be solely about salary. Think about intangibles- resources, training, mentorship, flexibility, advancement track. Run your career like a business and ask: Will this opportunity make me better off in five and ten years? Is this opportunity a better fit for me and my family? 2. Relationship Continuity […]
Q&A with Ballast CEO/Founder, John V. Boardman, III
Q: When you first began your career, what did you expect it to look like? A: I pictured a life behind a computer, researching companies, trading securities, and managing portfolios. That is what I thought success in finance looked like. But when the firm I worked for was acquired, I was introduced to financial planning, […]