Investor psychology plays a powerful role in decision-making, especially during market volatility. Common behavioral biases like loss aversion, herd mentality, overconfidence, recency bias, and anchoring can lead to emotional and costly investment choices. By understanding these biases and focusing on long-term goals, diversification, and a solid financial plan—ideally with professional guidance—investors can stay disciplined and make smarter decisions.

Getting rich and building wealth aren't the same. Riches can come fast and disappear just as quickly. Wealth is built over time—through discipline, smart investing, and long-term planning. One is flashy; the other is lasting. At Whitaker-Myers, we help you take the steady, proven path to true financial security. Don't just get rich—build wealth that lasts.

A recession is a period of economic decline, often marked by reduced spending, job cuts, and falling GDP. While headlines may predict it, we usually only recognize a recession in hindsight through lagging indicators like unemployment and corporate earnings. Market downturns can create long-term opportunities for investors, but strategies vary by situation. Always consult a financial advisor to navigate uncertain times and protect your financial goals.

A sinking fund is a smart way to save for future needs—like vacations—without going into debt. By budgeting monthly for expenses such as travel, food, and activities, you can enjoy guilt-free time with your family. Start small with staycations, use tools like the envelope system, and involve your family in the planning process. With discipline and a clear plan, you can create lasting memories while staying on track financially.

Baby Step 4 of the Ramsey Plan recommends saving 15% of your gross income for retirement. This guide explains how to structure those savings using a 401(k), Roth IRA, or taxable brokerage depending on your income, filing status, and employer plan access. Key rule: “Match beats Roth, Roth beats Pre-Tax.” Whether you're single or married, with or without a plan, there’s a strategy to fit your situation. Consult a financial advisor to create a plan that works for you.

The U.S. faces a $36 trillion national debt and a $1.8 trillion deficit. With most revenue tied up in mandatory spending, there’s little left for other needs. Cutting discretionary spending alone won’t balance the budget—economic growth, increased tax revenue, or reduced defense spending are needed. Efforts like DOGE help reduce waste, but long-term discipline and smart policy are essential. Like personal finance, fixing national debt requires focus and tough choices.

Tariffs can greatly impact investments, and Dave Ramsey’s four categories—Growth, Growth & Income, Aggressive Growth, and International—respond differently. Growth stocks may be hit hardest, while Aggressive Growth and International companies may benefit. Diversifying across all four can help reduce risk. Understanding these effects with the help of a financial advisor can guide smarter investing in uncertain times.

Not all financial advisors are created equal. A CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® (CFP®) stands out for their fiduciary duty, rigorous training, and ethical standards. CFP® professionals offer holistic planning, objective advice, and a commitment to your best interests. With trusted credentials and dedication, they provide peace of mind in your financial journey. Choose wisely—your financial future depends on it.

Lifestyle creep happens when spending increases with income, limiting savings and wealth building. Signs include impulse purchases and financial stress despite raises. To combat it, set clear goals, automate savings, budget wisely, and track spending. Avoid comparisons and celebrate wins without overspending. Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers can help create a financial plan that supports your goals while enjoying life today.

STRS is offering an early retirement incentive for defined benefit plan members with 33 years of service or age 60 with 5 years of service between June 2025 and July 2027. Deciding whether to accept depends on your full financial picture. Run benefit estimates for different retirement points and factor in any salary increases. Then, meet with an STRS counselor and your Whitaker-Myers advisor to determine the best option for your goals.

Estate planning is key to a holistic financial plan. Trusts differ from wills by avoiding probate, offering privacy, and allowing ongoing asset management. Types include revocable living trusts, irrevocable trusts, testamentary trusts, special needs trusts, charitable trusts, and spendthrift trusts—each serving different purposes. Choose based on your goals. Whitaker-Myers partners with EncorEstate Planning to help clients navigate these options.

Taxes can be confusing, but working with a CPA early helps avoid last-minute stress. Key tax forms to bring include W-2s, 1099s (NEC, R, SSA), and investment forms like 5498 and 1099-Composite. Understanding these forms ensures accurate filing. For guidance or help with your 2025 taxes, Whitaker-Myers Tax Advisors is ready to assist you through the process.

Tax loss harvesting helps offset gains by selling investments at a loss, reducing taxes in taxable accounts. Retirement accounts like IRAs and 401(k)s are tax-favored and don’t require this strategy. For maxed-out retirement savings, consider taxable accounts. Consult financial advisors to navigate tax loss harvesting effectively and avoid costly mistakes. Need guidance? Contact our Whitaker-Myers team to optimize your investment strategy.

College financial aid season is here, but cuts to programs like Pell Grants and Work-Study could shrink student aid. Proposed changes to student loans, including eliminating Parent PLUS Loans, may increase costs for families. Parents should understand aid offers, know what to negotiate, and avoid debt that risks their retirement. Exploring state schools, community colleges, and scholarships can help manage costs. Speak with a financial advisor to plan smart for college.

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.

Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) helps lenders reduce risk when borrowers put down less than 20%. Types include BPMI (monthly payments), LPMI (built into interest rates), and Lump-Sum PMI (paid upfront). PMI can be removed once equity reaches 20% or by refinancing. Though PMI opens doors to homeownership, it’s a cost to the borrower that only protects the lender. Saving a full 20% down can help avoid PMI and save money long-term.

Major life changes like marriage, divorce, childbirth, or the death of a loved one make it essential to update your beneficiaries. Outdated designations can lead to legal disputes, delays, and unintended asset distribution. Keeping beneficiaries current ensures your estate plan remains effective, avoids probate, and protects your loved ones. Regular reviews align your wishes with your evolving life and financial goals.

Tax loss harvesting is the strategy of selling investments at a loss to offset capital gains and reduce your tax bill. Understanding capital gains brackets—especially with the 2025 thresholds—can help retirees and middle-income earners potentially avoid taxes altogether. Timing and spreading gains across years, as well as offsetting with losses, can maximize savings. A financial advisor can help tailor strategies to fit your income and 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.

After discovering Dave Ramsey 30 years ago, my wife and I transformed our finances—and our future. Today, as a Ramsey Master Financial Coach and Financial Advisor at Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers, I help others do the same. A monthly budget is vital at every stage, from getting out of debt to planning for retirement. It puts you in control of your money. Want help creating a personalized budget? Let’s build a strategy that works for you. Schedule a meeting today.