Understanding the business cycle helps investors make smarter financial decisions during market uncertainty. While we can't control the economy, we can plan with discipline—by staying invested, rebalancing portfolios, managing expectations, and maintaining emergency funds. Market cycles may be more volatile, but a resilient, diversified portfolio helps weather all phases. Don’t try to time the market—plan wisely and stay focused on long-term goals.

Combat pay is tax-exempt at the federal level but still subject to Social Security and Medicare taxes. Service members can contribute this income to their TSP, with Roth TSP being the most beneficial option—offering both tax-free contributions and tax-free growth. Contributions from combat pay don’t count toward annual limits, allowing greater retirement savings potential. Keep records of your pay and consult a financial advisor to track and manage TSP rollovers effectively.

Sequence of return risk—the timing of investment returns near retirement—can significantly impact portfolio longevity. Losses early in retirement are far more damaging than losses later. Investors approaching the “Retirement Red Zone” should reduce risk exposure and consider tools like income annuities, buffer assets, and diversified portfolios. A trusted financial advisor can help build a plan to retire with confidence and stability.

Over the next 20 years, an estimated $84 trillion will transfer from baby boomers to their heirs—marking the largest wealth shift in U.S. history. This transition, driven by 401(k)s, rising home values, and disciplined savers, will reshape the economy and widen the wealth gap. For those expecting an inheritance, now is the time to meet with a financial advisor to plan wisely, maximize tax efficiency, and set long-term goals. Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers can help you prepare

Without a will, you die “intestate,” leaving state courts to decide how your estate is divided—often in unintended ways. Dave Ramsey emphasizes having a proper estate plan, preferably through a legally valid will. There are various types, including holographic, nuncupative, and statutory wills. While wills ensure your wishes are on paper, they also go through probate, which can be contested. For guidance, Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers partners with Encore Estate Planning to

John-Mark Young earns the ChFC designation from the American College of Financial Services

For self-employed individuals and small business owners, SEP IRAs and Solo 401(k)s offer powerful, tax-advantaged retirement savings beyond traditional IRAs. SEP IRAs are simpler to set up and ideal for businesses with employees, while Solo 401(k)s allow higher contributions and catch-up options for owners with no employees. Each has unique rules and benefits—consult a Whitaker-Myers advisor to choose the best fit for your retirement goals.

Health Savings Accounts can be used to save money on taxes and provide strategic tax planning for higher income years.

5 Insights for your financial, saving and investing life for 2025.

The Social Security Fairness Act was approved in the House in November and in the Senate early Saturday morning.

The new year can fill you with a sense of hope and expectation.  There are new goals to reach and new challenges to tackle.  Something...

Cleveland Clinic and Fidelity BrokerageLink - a powerful combo for retirement savers

Ohio STRS announced recent changes to the benefit eligibility of the defined benefit plan.

Tim Hilterman joins Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers as their Chief Financial Planning Officer.

The IRS recently announced the changes to the retirement contribution limits for 2025  for the various retirement account types.  To...

So many terms in the financial industry  seem mysterious and confusing, and some even sound completely made up.  The Backdoor Roth IRA...

Annuities “You get an annuity; you get an annuity, you get an annuity, and in fact… everyone gets an ANNUITY!”   It's not a common phrase...

Life Insurance: Term Life Insurance Specifically As followers of many of Dave Ramsey's  principles, we should be familiar with his...

What is a Fee-Based Advisor? When looking for the right financial advisor , several questions should be at the top of anyone’s mind ....

I’ve inherited an IRA… now what do I do? Inherited IRAs can seem overwhelming when the time comes to inherit one. It seems...