A North Carolina House Select Committee is recommending broad changes to the state's mental health and criminal justice systems to reduce violent incidents and address untreated mental illness. The committee aims to improve access to mental health services, increase the mental health workforce, and enhance data collection and sharing between state agencies. [... more]

Understanding the three-legged stool of retirement income, Americans rely on Social Security, employer-sponsored plans, and personal savings, with individual retirement accounts playing a crucial role. Mark Biller breaks down the differences between traditional and Roth IRAs, discussing tax implications, contribution limits, and eligibility. He also shares practical advice on setting up business finances, including separating personal and business accounts, choosing a simple accounting system, and treating taxes as a bill to be paid. [... more]

NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani now says he is forced to raid the rainy day fund retiree benefit fund and to increase property taxes while trying to freeze rent The Biden official who created the 'Disinformation' Board is appointed as FISA Court Adviser French President Macron claims Free speech is pure BS Dana breaks down how GOP Rep Randy Fine rightfully CALLED OUT the Islamists over the commentary to his dog tweet following news that Million dogs are going to be massacred by firing squad ahead of the FIFA World Cup Whoopi Goldberg reveals on The View that she is in [... more]

A major nor'easter dumped record-setting snowfalls across many counties in North Carolina, with all 100 counties seeing some trace amounts of snow. The state braced for winter weather for the second weekend in a row, with portions of Carteret County leading the state in snowfall totals. The North Carolina State Highway Patrol reported over 1,100 total car accidents and 1,600 calls for service, with two fatal crashes occurring in Robeson and Rutherford counties. Governor Josh Stein urged drivers to stay off the roads, and a winter weather advisory was issued for much of the state. Meanwhile, Duke Energy prepared for the extreme cold by requesting an emergency order from the U.S. Department of Energy, and the state health plan faced a 14-year-old lawsuit over retiree health benefits. [... more]

A major winter storm is approaching North Carolina, prompting Governor Josh Stein to declare a state of emergency. The state's emergency response team has been activated, and crews are pre-treating roads with brine and restocking salt supplies. Meanwhile, a lawsuit over the state health plan has been ongoing for 14 years, with the state health plan seeking to have the state Supreme Court revisit its ruling. Additionally, a company called ComScope has canceled a major manufacturing expansion in Catawba County, and UNC Chapel Hill is poised to break ground on a major campus expansion in 2027. [... more]

A 60-year-old single retiree seeks advice on managing her annuity and diversified accounts, while a listener in Wisconsin considers investing in the stock market instead of purchasing a rental property. A couple in Florida explores the option of a reverse mortgage to supplement their retirement income, and a listener in Illinois asks about the difference between a Roth IRA and a traditional IRA. [... more]

Creating a new baby financial checklist involves adding the newborn to health insurance, updating life insurance, building an emergency fund, and setting up an education savings fund. It's also essential to update taxes and consider a credit freeze. For retirees, investing in a 50-50 portfolio of stocks and fixed-income investments is a good starting point, and considering faith-based investing options can help align investments with values. [... more]

A certified financial planner discusses common myths about wealth and investing, including the idea that performance is the ultimate success and the importance of considering the impact of investments on people and places. She also addresses questions from listeners on topics such as Social Security benefits, investing in a Roth IRA, and managing debt. [... more]

Many people are confident about their retirement prospects, but a disconnect between worker optimism and actual preparedness exists. Inflation and potential changes to the American retirement system are top concerns. Workers can learn from today's retirees, who often retire earlier than planned due to health issues or changes at work. Building a realistic retirement plan and communicating with spouses about financial goals are essential steps towards a comfortable retirement. [... more]

Investors need to balance risk management with the potential for long-term growth, as playing it too safe can lead to financial trouble down the road. Recognizing the risk of loss aversion and taking steps to mitigate it, such as diversifying investments and maintaining an emergency fund, can help individuals achieve their financial goals and protect their purchasing power. [... more]

Estate planning and retirement planning are crucial for ensuring that your assets are distributed according to your wishes. Beneficiary designations can help transfer accounts and assets without going through probate, but it's essential to keep them up to date and coordinate with your overall estate plan. A financial advisor can help you navigate the complexities of estate planning and retirement planning, including tax implications and investment strategies. Building an emergency fund is also vital for unexpected expenses, and understanding how social security benefits work can help you make informed decisions about your retirement. [... more]

Understanding tax brackets and exemptions can help individuals plan for retirement and minimize their tax liability. Certified financial planner Hans Scheil explains how to take advantage of lower tax rates in 2024, including the use of Roth conversions and Qualified Charitable Distributions, to create a more tax-efficient retirement plan. [... more]

Tithing in retirement can be complicated due to varying income sources, but having a plan can give you confidence in your financial decisions. A certified financial planner shares expert advice on how to approach tithing in retirement, including considering the first fruits principle and applying a percentage to earnings, not just principal. He also discusses tax-efficient ways to give, such as using appreciated stock or donor advised funds. [... more]

Rob West offers suggestions for keeping Christ in the family Christmas, including setting a good example with attitude, time management, and generosity. He also answers listener questions on financial planning, retirement, inheritance, and mortgage protection, emphasizing the importance of biblical values and wise stewardship. [... more]

Planning for retiree tax brackets involves considering a multi-year Roth conversion strategy to minimize taxes and maximize savings. Certified financial planner Hans Scheil explains how to apply hearts to wisdom by making informed decisions about IRA and 401k money, and how to use Roth conversions to pay taxes now and enjoy tax-free growth in the future. [... more]

The standard deduction for 2022 has simplified taxes for many retirees, but it also presents opportunities for strategic planning. Certified Financial Planner Hans Shile discusses how the standard deduction can be used to increase charitable giving, reduce tax liability, and ensure long-term care. He also shares strategies for retirees to maximize their income and minimize taxes, including the use of qualified charitable distributions and short-term care plans. [... more]

Retirees can benefit from understanding how federal and state income taxes apply to their social security checks, and how to minimize their tax burden through strategies like Roth conversions and tax-free income. Certified financial planner Hans Shiel explains how to navigate the complex tax system and make informed decisions about retirement planning and financial planning. [... more]