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Managing retirement strategies and creating goals can help you stay focused and consistent in your financial efforts. It creates a sense of achievement while you make progress toward the pursuit of a fulfilling retirement and financial...

There are many factors to consider when creating a comprehensive estate plan. Forgetting or leaving out certain assets could potentially create time-consuming delays, financial complications, and family disputes...

Choosing and regularly reviewing your beneficiaries and asset distribution plan is critical for ensuring everything goes according to your wishes. This includes structuring your plan around cost-effective measures such as tax benefits...

As the year comes to a close, there are some important deadlines that you shouldn’t ignore. These deadlines affect your taxes, savings, and, perhaps, your financial future. Here’s a simple guide to help you stay on track before this...

At the end of the year, it is necessary to reflect on your financial picture, review the last 12 months, and plan for the future. With all that is involved, it can seem overwhelming. Consider breaking up the responsibilities over 12...

2026 Outlook: The Policy Engine By LPL Research In 2025, we observed a market environment where fiscal and monetary policy decisions, rather than traditional business fundamentals, were the primary drivers of market direction...

LPL Financial Holdings Inc. (Nasdaq: LPLA), one of the fastest-growing wealth management firms in the U.S. and the parent corporation of LPL Financial LLC, will commemorate the 15th anniversary of its initial public offering (IPO) on Mon...

Valenti Wealth Management recognized in Connecticut Magazine as 2025 Five Star Professionals.

Every year, the holiday season inspires a beautiful wave of generosity. Donations surge. Volunteer sign-ups spike. People go out of their way to support those in need or brighten someone’s day. But what if that spirit of giving didn’t...

As a retiree, you've likely spent a lifetime planning ahead by saving for the future, guarding your health, and building a legacy. But while gifts of cash or keepsakes are always appreciated, there’s another gift to consider that’s...

You may have thought your digital identity was safe and not a likely target of a cybercriminal until one day, the bank calls wondering if purchases made at a store that you have never been to, 2,000 miles away, were made by you.

Periodically, companies will report massive data breaches, some impacting billions of records that contain personal information such as names, addresses, and Social Security numbers...

When people think of life insurance, the first thing that may come to mind is ensuring your loved ones are covered enough should something happen to you. It is a concern that more than half of all Americans consider, with at least...

There are several ways high-net-worth individuals can benefit from life insurance. It is a vehicle that could provide loved ones with an income stream, it can be used as an investment strategy, it may help to lower your estate tax burden...

A critical part of financial planning that is often overlooked is insurance. Having various insurance policies will provide different benefits to your financial plan, ranging from protection to tax breaks. In fact, insurance is a...

If it has been a while, you are not alone. Research indicates that only one in three Americans utilize employer-sponsored 401k retirement accounts; even those contributing may not be taking full advantage of potential benefits.

Everyone wants a comfortable retirement, but the road you take there will depend on your specific situation. When you invest, you assume a certain level of risk (but like everyone you’re hoping that your holdings will increase in value).

In the U.S., women control a third of household assets. But by 2030, U.S. women are expected to control much of the assets that the baby boomer generation will pass to heirs, roughly 30 trillion in assets.

Tariffs—taxes imposed on imported goods—have become an essential factor for investors to consider. They are typically used to protect domestic industries from foreign competition by increasing the costs of imported goods.

In today's economic environment, where market volatility and inflation are often unpredictable and inevitable, investing can sometimes feel like a rollercoaster.

Addressing wealth management comprehensively in today's market environment is essential for individuals and business entities.

Understanding the anticipated changes in tax laws and regulations in 2025 will become increasingly crucial. One area that requires attention is the estate tax sunset at the end of 2025.

In 2022, U.S. inflation hit a 40-year high, with prices for food, housing, gasoline, and other key staples increasing by nearly 10% over the previous year.

Once you are in your 60s, you are likely to focus less on growing your retirement funds than answering, "When do I retire?" And once you crack open your nest egg, how should you allocate its contents?

Mental strain and burnout are very real for small business owners. The stress of trying to provide for yourself financially, your family, and your employees and keeping your business growing may sometimes put you into an unhealthy...

Small business owners face many challenges, which may become even more significant during inflation. As inflation hit new highs in recent years, small business owners are being tested and challenged by high costs and...

Addressing wealth management comprehensively in today's market environment is essential for individuals and business entities.

Financial literacy is essential for your personal financial health and even more crucial for the financial health of your small business.

Farmington, CT — April 11, 2025 – Joan Valenti, CFP®, an independent LPL Financial advisor in Farmington, CT, has been recognized in this year’s list of the Forbes/SHOOK Best-in-State Wealth Advisors for her track record of success in...

Regardless of what you do or how much you earn, you deal with money on a daily basis. The more you understand about finances, the more effectively you will be able to manage yours.

Most American workers who earn wage income and pay Social Security taxes via withholding receive Social Security benefits at some point in retirement.

The world of personal taxation and tax deductions can often be puzzling. While these elements aid in reducing one's tax burden, they may also come with unexpected limitations.

For those approaching or in retirement, managing Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) is an essential part of your financial planning.

Losing a loved one can be an incredibly challenging time. Amidst the emotional turmoil, there's the daunting task of dealing with financial matters—one of which is filing income taxes.

Starting and running a business may be exciting and challenging. If you’re a woman and a business owner, you may face some obstacles, but there are many ways to gain a competitive edge.

When it comes to planning for retirement, there are a myriad of strategies and options available. One often overlooked method is making after-tax contributions into retirement savings vehicles.

What does an entrepreneur need to create a dynamic company? The right mindset is a big part of it. As an entrepreneur, you devote half your time or more to the daily hustle, making things happen and accomplishing goals.

Understanding the guidelines surrounding Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) becomes crucial as we navigate the complexities of personal finance and retirement planning.

Retirement planning is not just about saving money — it’s about surviving on the money you saved and may receive in retirement, such as Social Security benefits.

As one approaches retirement, monitoring your financial situation by understanding your net worth and assessing the assets and resources needed to maintain a comfortable lifestyle throughout retirement is vital.

With delays in tax returns over the past couple of years, as the IRS tries to catch up from the backlog and recover from shutdowns, many people are anxious to get their tax returns as fast as possible.

A critical aspect of retirement planning is understanding the rules and requirements surrounding Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from retirement savings accounts.

The Social Security Fairness Act, HR 82 is a bill that was recently signed into law that repeals several decades-old provisions aimed at increasing Social Security payments for nearly 3 million former and current public employees...

Retirement is a chapter of life that, for some, may signal leisure, freedom, and working by choice, not necessity. However, this phase usually requires retirement income from retirement savings withdrawals.

As the holiday season approaches, the air buzzes with excitement, but it also rings alarm bells for cybercriminals aiming to exploit the festive fervor.

Joan Valenti’s Visit to Capitol Hill

Joan M. Valenti, CFP®Founder, Valenti Wealth Management

Friday, December 20, 2024

Last week, I had the opportunity to visit our nation’s capital for LPL Financial’s Achieve conference in Washington, D.C. Achieve is an exclusive, invitation-only women’s leadership conference designed for top LPL women financial...

Looking back, 2024 clearly echoed many of the themes from 2023. By and large, the economy continued to defy expectations and surprised once again to the upside.

As a small business owner, getting financing may be crucial to your success. However, with so many types of loans available, you may be unable to identify the appropriate one(s) for your business.

Year-end charitable giving is often associated with the spirit of doing good during the holiday season. It gives the donor a feeling of satisfaction and, in some cases, a substantial tax write-off.

On Giving Tuesday1—the day after Cyber Monday—millions of people across the world focus their attention on giving back.

As the year comes to a close, there are some important deadlines that you shouldn’t ignore. These deadlines affect your taxes, savings, and, perhaps, your financial future.

Asset protection is a crucial aspect of entrepreneurship that women entrepreneurs must be aware of, regardless of the industry in which they operate.

For high-net-worth (HNW) and ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) individuals, their wealth comes with the ability to create significant change.

Election years are a time of uncertainty and excitement for many people. There may be concerns with social and public policy, and the implications of legislature on the market and personal finances.

Starting and running a business may be exciting and challenging. If you’re a woman and a business owner, you may face some obstacles, but there are many ways to gain a competitive edge. Here are ten tips to help you succeed and stand...

As you approach retirement, fully stepping away from work might seem less appealing than it did a decade or two ago. Instead, many people embrace semi-retirement to balance the need for continued income with the desire for more leisure...

Cybersecurity is more important than ever as we continuously move toward more automated environments in a highly connected society. As more technologies develop, perpetrators keep exploring new tactics to exploit others. It's important...

Small businesses have new reasons to consider the value of financial planning in working towards their business goals. Many owners are "bandonneurs" (a French word for "jack of all trades") who may successfully wear many hats, but...

Preparing for life to last a century includes thinking about finances and logistics in order to enjoy good health and security for years to come. Here are a few of our tips and tricks for planning to live into the next century.

Medicare is complex with many different moving parts involved. First and foremost, it is always beneficial to gain a solid understanding of your options. Here are five tips to help you plan and prepare for the nuances of Medicare.

Many dream of working toward early retirement, but getting there generally doesn’t happen by accident. Retiring early requires financial independence that can last for decades, but that is much easier said than done.

As we go through various stages of life, our insurance needs may vary significantly. Here’s a breakdown of the different stages and the types of insurance coverage you might want to consider at those times.

As a retiree, one of the significant financial challenges you may encounter is inflation. The rising costs of goods and services can erode the purchasing power of your retirement savings, making it difficult to maintain your lifestyle.

Retirement planning is a constantly evolving process. Strategies that may have worked fine a few years ago may no longer be the optimal direction to continue.

In an interconnected world, global geopolitical events have an undeniable impact on financial markets. From political unrest to trade disputes and natural disasters, these events can create uncertainty and volatility...

You often hear people discuss "saving for retirement,” but in many cases, they're actually referring to their investing. We discuss some of the key differences between investing and saving and how to choose the most optimal course for you.

Midyear Outlook 2024: Still Waiting for the Turn By LPL Financial Research As we reach the halfway point of 2024, a sense of persistence defines the economic and market landscape. Trends from late 2023 have continued, with surprisingly...

Mental health and emotional well-being are vital aspects of life, particularly in our later years. The transition into retirement presents a myriad of changes that can bring joy and newfound freedom but also stress and uncertainty.

The need for regular saving and investing spans many life stages. Through the years, your goals will change and your strategies will shift, but don’t be alarmed.

The "Sandwich Generation" is composed of adults who are ‘sandwiched’ between competing financial responsibilities. Many Sandwich Gen members support their aging parents while also providing for their children and planning for retirement.

Your finances are probably one of the last places you want to experience fireworks—unless they are celebratory. With new year's resolutions firmly in the rearview mirror, the summer months allow you to revisit your financial goals...

Insurance is designed to provide coverage for some of life's biggest disasters—fire, floods, car crashes, disability, and death. But when you're on a tight budget, paying even a few extra dollars a month for an insurance policy you may...

With the cost of college rising, receiving a tax break from the IRS for college-related expenses may be appealing. 529 Plans and Coverdell Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) offer tax-advantaged withdrawals when used for qualified expenses.

With rising housing prices and interest rates, you may feel pressured to jump on the carousel to avoid being left behind. We'll explore a few tips to help high earners who are looking to buy a home during periods of high inflation.

Having enough retirement income is a top concern for many Americans nearing or in retirement. Even though they may have saved consistently throughout the working years, they may be concerned that their retirement plans will succeed.

As a parent, one of the most significant concerns is ensuring that your children have the financial resources they need to pursue higher education. With college tuition costs continuously rising, it's no surprise that many parents...

A common piece of standard life insurance advice is to get it as early as possible — and there are good reasons why. If you're young and in relatively good health, purchasing a term life insurance policy is usually much cheaper than it...

To maintain good physical health, most people must exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, and keep stress to a minimum. Achieving financial wellness is no different. It requires careful planning, smart decision-making, and consistent...

As the saying goes, "what goes up must come down." In the world of investing, this adage holds true, especially during times when stock markets are reaching new peaks. While it's tempting to ride the wave of euphoria and make impulsive...

For many high-net-worth (HNW) individuals, managing finances and minimizing their tax burden are top priorities. One strategy that often gets overlooked in the pursuit of reducing taxes is life insurance. While life insurance is...

What is luck? Most dictionaries define it more or less as something good or bad that happens to you, by chance or otherwise, that you find, or don’t find, desirable. We typically associate luck with happiness, gratitude, and a sense of...

Having your children move out of the house, leaving you and your spouse with an “empty nest,” is a life-altering experience. It will likely not be a quick adjustment, but preparing yourself mentally, emotionally, and even financially...

For investors, cash and cash-like investments have been unusually attractive over the past two years, offering a safe haven with surprisingly robust returns. This appeal was primarily driven by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest...

Tax planning is a crucial component of personal finance and a vital component of your overall financial planning. Failing to consider tax planning could result in missed opportunities for tax savings and other tax opportunities. When...

Estate planning is a comprehensive process that involves organizing your assets and making informed decisions concerning how your wealth will be handled before and after death. It is a critical phase of wealth management, essential for...

It's not easy to keep up with complex tax laws that always seem to be changing, much less figure out how they might affect you personally. Even so, it's important to consider the potential impact of taxes when making many types of...

When you are busy running a company, it may be difficult to think about your taxes. Proactive tax planning helps you to avoid an unexpected tax liability when you file. These helpful strategies may offset your tax liability and might...

Social Security benefits are critical to retirement planning. These monthly benefits provide a financial safety net for millions of Americans. But you must navigate the system strategically to get the most out of your Social Security...

The newest generation of upcoming retirees is facing a more unique and prominent dilemma than past generations have experienced: caring for family members at the same time they’re preparing for retirement. There are plenty of...

Planning for early retirement is great, but planning for healthcare coverage at the same time is sometimes more difficult. Healthcare costs are high, and finding ways to bridge the gap between the age you retire and the time you are...

In the world of investing, the eternal debate between growth and value continues to captivate the minds of investors. As we navigate through 2024, the question looms large: Will growth once again reign supreme over value, especially in...

When you own a business, you get to deduct business expenses from your business income. This general rule applies, subject to certain limitations, whether you are a sole proprietor with employees or a self-employed freelancer...

What is an estate tax return? When you die, you will leave behind all your property (everything you own) and debts (everything you owe). All this is called your estate. After the debts have been paid, the various items left in your...

Many IRA and retirement plan limits are indexed for inflation each year. Several of these key numbers have increased once again for 2024.ow much can you save in an IRA? The maximum amount you can contribute to a traditional IRA or a...

Asset management and financial wellness can help develop long-term confidence when wealth transfers from generation to generation. Understanding and implementing financial wellness techniques is essential for effectively sharing wealth...

When it comes to financial bad habits, the most common are also well known — don’t spend too much, don’t take on unsustainable debt, and avoid living paycheck to paycheck. But what happens once you’ve...

There are only 24 hours of separation between the last day of the year and the first day of the new year. Nevertheless, choosing the official calendar date of your retirement to be in one calendar year over another is not a trivial...

The new year is fast approaching, and it is the perfect time to set up resolutions for your business. Whether you want to increase your sales, gather a more extensive customer base, or just accomplish needed business improvements,...

In 2024, LPL Research believes markets will make a definitive turn to a more recognizable place. En route, the transition will be marked by meaningful shifts in a few key areas. Inflation is going down. The risk of a recession is...

It's a new year and the time of year when you want to make resolutions about your personal life, business life, and finances. It is the perfect time for couples to get together and set their own financial goals for the upcoming year....

As we approach the last quarter of each year, it is a good time to plan for the next one. Year-end planning is especially important for existing retirees and those hoping to retire in the next few years. There are tax and income...

As age 73 nears, it is critical that you begin considering how you want to handle the required minimum distributions (RMDs) you are obligated to withdraw from your tax-advantaged retirement accounts, including 401(k)s, 403(b)s, 457s,...

The cost of long-term care can vary widely based on location (both city and state) and level of care needed. However, one thing is for certain: with 7 in every 10 people requiring long-term care at some point, preparing for this...

As the year’s end approaches, High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNWIs) must prepare for one of the most critical monetary tasks: year-end tax planning. Due to the nature of their holdings and dynamic financial situation, HNWIs often...

Here are some things to consider as you weigh potential tax moves between now and the end of the year. 1. Defer income to next year Consider opportunities to defer income to 2024, particularly if you think you may be in a lower tax...

The holidays are nearly upon us – a time of giving, goodwill to others, and embracing traditions. For many people, giving to a charity or organization that aligns with your values provides a sense of fulfillment. If you itemize...

In the realm of estate planning, the ripple effects of our oversights often linger long after we're gone, impacting the lives of those we leave behind. It’s the uniqueness of this area of planning that makes it paramount to get...

The murkiest part of estate planning is to discuss when and how to distribute your assets to your heirs. This process requires a series of considerations and trade-offs to avoid emotion-laden family problems. For many, focusing on the...

Americans donate billions to charity annually. If you give to charity, you need to know about one of the best tools to facilitate generosity: Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs). DAFs date from the 1930s but did not become popular until the...

It's generally a good idea to review your employer-sponsored retirement savings plan at least once each year and when major life changes occur. If you haven't given your plan a thorough review within the last 12 months, now may be...

A 401(k) plan is one of the most popular and effective techniques for saving for your retirement. A company will automatically withdraw and contribute money from each paycheck to your 401(k) plan. Some employers will even match a...

Managing money may seem stressful at times. Unexpected expenses, changes in employment, and changes in family or lifestyle may all lead to money issues. Making sure you have money saved up for the unexpected is crucial. Here are some...

Discussing charitable giving with family members helps them to understand how meaningful it is to you, the importance of altruism for the betterment of society, and how participating in philanthropy as a family can help bring everybody...

With the cost of college expensive for many, receiving a tax break from the IRS for college-related expenses may be appealing. 529 Plans and Coverdell Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) offer tax-advantaged withdrawals when used for...

Understanding the importance of life insurance is one thing. Understanding the tax rules is quite another. As insurance products have evolved and become more sophisticated, the line separating insurance vehicles from investment...

Having a solid life insurance policy in place is crucial for any adult who has assets, a business, or a steady income. While most adults know that having a life insurance policy is a vital piece in their financial puzzle, there are...

Medicare policies are the health insurance benefits you have worked toward throughout your life, and having the proper policy is critical as you are likely to face more health problems as you age. While these policies can provide you...

Tax filing season can be a stressful time for many individuals. Dealing with the IRS and ensuring compliance with tax regulations can seem daunting. However, with proper preparation and a proactive approach, you can navigate the tax...

For the second time in the nation’s history, the U.S. debt rating was downgraded by a rating agency, Fitch Ratings, from the highest rating, AAA (Exceptionally Strong), to AA+ (Very Strong). The last time this occurred was in...

In early 2022, the IRS issued proposed regulations regarding required minimum distributions (RMDs) to reflect changes made by the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act of 2019. The IRS has held off on...

You can learn a lot from those who have come before you. For individuals interested in investing, especially those new to it, learning and applying the wisdom from people that have found techniques that worked for them is a great...

If recent market volatility has you questioning your opportunities for financial freedom, you are not alone. Due to rising inflation, higher interest rates, a volatile stock market, and recession fears, many investors find themselves...

Financial freedom is a state of being in control of one's finances, covering expenses easily, and saving for future goals. Financial freedom enables you to choose how you spend or interact with your money and have the choice to decide...

Our 2023 investing outlook started with a theme of returning to normalcy. Considering 2022’s market volatility and the aftereffects of the pandemic, the idea of finding balance was certainly a welcomed change. It’s a theme...

Those who receive an inheritance with the passing of a loved one are potentially given the gift of financial freedom if they choose to manage the wealth carefully. Did you know that only about one-third of adults have a prepared will...

What does the term "financial freedom" mean to you? For some, it means freedom from a particular workplace or industry. For others, it means the opportunity for an early retirement or the ability to start a long-desired business....

Having enough retirement income is a top concern for many Americans nearing or in retirement. Even though they may have saved consistently throughout the working years, they may be concerned that their retirement plans will succeed. A...

In tax lingo, your principal residence is the place where you legally reside. It's typically the place where you spend most of your time, but several other factors are also relevant in determining your principal residence. Many of the...

What are the ownership issues of life insurance? In estate planning, life insurance is purchased for several reasons: (1) to provide cash to the insured's family for daily living expenses, (2) to provide cash for potential death taxes...

With the signing of the Omnibus Appropriations package into law, both employees and employers can take advantage of more than 90 new provisions aimed at creating opportunities to create or modify workplace retirement plans and...

If you have always thought estate planning was just for those nearing retirement or already retired, think again. If you own a home, it is important to have a plan in place. Without a will or other arrangements that allow your home to...

Estate planning helps disperse your assets according to your wishes. The effort may seem daunting at first, but estate planning does not have to be overly complicated. With the proper planning, you may find yourself resting a little...

In an era characterized by high job turnover, it is more important than ever for employees to carefully manage their retirement savings. With a significant portion of Americans withdrawing money from their 401(k)s when they change...

Many people know that life insurance is important to have, and yet not enough actually get it. Some decide they’ll get it later in life while others feel it’s a waste of money because they don’t have any health issues...

Spring is a time of renewal and rejuvenation, as the world awakens from its winter slumber and new life begins to bloom. As the saying goes, "April showers bring May flowers", and this sentiment can also apply to your financial life...

As a physician, you've devoted a lot of time to educating yourself, building a career, and providing top notch care that enriches your patients lives, and in the midst of all that, it can be easy to overlook your finances. To ensure...

As a physician, you understand your medical specialty inside and out, but at the same time, you also need to be able to handle the financial challenges associated with your industry. That may include juggling a lot of student and...

The SECURE 2.0 Act, passed as part of an omnibus spending bill in December 2022, added new exceptions to the 10% federal income tax penalty for early withdrawals from tax-advantaged retirement accounts. The Act also expanded an...

Most people know that once they approach retirement age, their reward for years of work comes from Social Security payments they put money towards during their employment. Deciding when to file for your Social Security payments is...

When people think of “myths,” they often think of such stories as Pandora’s Box (the woman who took the lid off of a jar releasing all of the world’s ills upon the world, were taxes one of them?), or the Tale of...

When it comes to estate planning, women have unique concerns. The fact is that women live an average of 5.0 years longer than men. That's important because it means that there's a greater chance that you'll need your assets to last...

For many women, working toward financial independence is more difficult. Obstacles women face include having a longer life expectancy than men which will require more savings for retirement, spending fewer years in the...

As an entrepreneur, there are multiple demands on your time and matters that require prioritizing. But while you're juggling strategic planning decisions for your business, don't forget about one of the most important factors of its...

Determining how your income impacts Social Security (SS) taxes is important for tax planning. Factors that determine how much SS tax you pay, depending on your circumstances, include:

At any age, health care is a priority. But when you retire, you should probably focus more on health care than ever before. That's why it's particularly important for women to factor in the cost of health care, including long-term care...

No matter what time of year it is, staying on top of your tax preparation is always a good idea. Here are 7 tips to keep in mind as you prepare for tax filing.

If you're thinking about working in retirement, you must consider a few things before making your decision. As you get older, the question of when to collect Social Security retirement benefits and how your monthly payment may be important.

Regardless of whether you prepare your taxes yourself or use a professional's services, it's a good idea to gather the information and documentation you need well in advance of your actual tax filing date. Below, we've listed some key infor

Spring cleaning doesn’t have to be a dreaded time of year. If you’ve added decluttering to your list of spring cleaning tasks, this seven-day challenge will get your home tidy and organized in no time—and with little to no added stress.

Financial wellness is living a healthy economic life for yourself and feeling good about your financial situation. It is also an essential part of taking care of yourself and those around you.

Are You Fiscally Fit? 5 Ways to Check the Health of Your WealthJust as it is important to be physically and mentally fit, it is also important to be fiscally fit. Fiscal fitness is not only about how much money you earn or the...