Ameriprise Financial

"One thing we can take away from the financial crisis is the importance of imparting good money habits to the next generation. There are many ways to engage children in financial decisions as a family. By making the subject more approachable, we can empower them to make smart financial decisions during good times and bad."

Marguerita "Rita" Cheng, CRPC^® , CFP^® | Ameriprise Financial Advisor in Bethesda, MD

                                
"The tax law passed at the end of 2010 reduces Social Security payroll taxes by two percent for employees. On $50,000 of income, this may translate into $1,000 in 2011, or $83 per month. People should consider capturing this extra income and applying it to their goals. Options may include paying an extra $83 per month on their mortgage principle, car loan, Roth IRA or educational savings fund. Failing to do so could represent a missed opportunity. If the money isn’t dedicated to specific goals, it will likely be spent without notice." James C. Hanna, MBA, CFP^®  | Ameriprise Financial Advisor in Topeka, KS

"The new estate taw law passed by Congress dramatically changed the rules. Anyone who has been making annual gifts to children should stop and consider the need for future gifts. The size of an estate determines whether or not it is subject to federal taxes. Depending on whether it falls above or below certain thresholds, future gifts may or may not make sense. Everyone with an old plan should talk with their financial and tax advisors and discuss the impact of the changes."

"When the Dow tanked to 6,400, it was obviously painful from an account balance perspective, but it actually worked in favor of investors who were able to keep their emotions in check and take advantage of opportunities like IRA conversions or investing regularly through dollar-cost averaging. In a similar sense, while current interest rates mean painfully low returns on CDs and checking, now may be a great time to refinance. People need help to understand that the stock market isn't necessarily the only place to make or save money. They need to take a complete look at their balance sheet to uncover smart moves for all situations." Michelle Renee Alberda, CFP^®, CLU^® | Ameriprise Senior Financial Advisor in San Francisco, CA

 "When working with clients, I'm often reminded of what President Woodrow Wilson once said: 'I not only use all the brains I have, but all that I can borrow.'  Most people -- particularly those with wealth to protect -- will need advice from professionals in a variety of fields over the course of their lifetime. I make a point of introducing my clients to a team of highly skilled estate attorneys, elderly care lawyers and tax accountants because I know they may be in need of their services some day. It's a proactive, holistic approach and, in my experience, one of the best ways to ensure my clients are protected."
David Mazzetti, CFP^®, CRPC^® | Ameriprise Senior Financial Advisor in Poughkeepsie, NY