top of page
Writer's pictureStephen H Akin

2020 Financial Checkup

Updated: Feb 28, 2020

Review your investment plan. The early part of the year is an excellent opportunity to closely evaluate performance.

Rebalancing is important to

maintain proper asset allocation. Risk tolerance is also very important. Investors tend to take on uncomfortable levels of risk in rising markets. When market volatility returns they realize that the hard way.

Check out my recent comments on Forbes.com


Fund your IRA before you file taxes!


Review Retirement Account Contributions. If you've not made a 2019 contribution to your retirement fund you have until April 15, 2020 to make a contribution.


Be sure that you are taking full advantage of any matching contributions by your employer.

See my recent comments on Forbes.com. Focus On These Year-End Tax Tips Right Now


Contribute to an IRA.


If you did not fund an Individual Retirement Account in 2019 there's still time.

For 2019, your total contributions to all of your traditional and Roth IRAs cannot be more than:

  • $6,000 ($7,000 if you’re age 50 or older), or

  • your taxable compensation for the year, if your compensation was less than this dollar limit.


If you've been investing in a plan and in 2019 reach the age of 70 1/2 by April 1st don't forget about the Required Minimum Distribution RMD. The new SECURE Act has pushed this age out to age 72. Are you prepared? See comments on Fiduciarynews.com


Fund your children or grandchildren's future


In today’s America, about two out of three high school graduates enroll in a four-year college. And about 70 % of students graduate with loans.

I can’t put enough emphasis on the fact that 529 plans are a fantastic way for parents and grandparents to start saving for their children's college education early. 529 plans are an easy way to save and invest your money, and they have several financial benefits:

529 plans are funded with after-tax money but grow tax-free

Distributions are tax-free as long as they’re used for qualifying education expensesA variety of expenses qualify – not just college tuition

You can use the funds for private K-12 tuitionOther people, such as grandparents, can contribute to the account.


  • It's also important to be sure that you have a Will. Name your benefices on all of your accounts and insurance policies.


  • Paying down debt, such as student loans or even other types of debt. Do stop investing for your future. See this recent article on Forbes.com


Reach out for a free consultation and learn how 35 years of investing experience will help you achieve your goals and dreams. Here's a handy form to get started planning your future!
54 views0 comments

Related Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page