Articles Archives | Fee-Only Retirement Planning in Rochester NY

Gifting During the Holidays: Understanding Federal Gift Tax Rules and Gifting Strategies

Eric Udvari November 6, 2026

For investors approaching or living in retirement, deciding how and when to draw from different types of retirement accounts can be an important part of financial planning. A Roth IRA conversion may provide one potential way to reposition assets from a traditional tax-deferred retirement account into a Roth IRA, but the decision involves weighing current tax consequences against potential future benefits. In this article, Ryan Tomko, CFP® explores how Roth conversions work, factors that may influence their timing, and how recent tax-law changes may affect the planning considerations surrounding conversions in 2026 and beyond.

Financial Mindfulness: How to Make More Intentional Money Decisions

Andrea Farrell October 16, 2026

Money can bring up strong emotions — from stress and anxiety to excitement and impulsivity. Financial mindfulness offers a different approach: instead of judging how you spend or save, pause to understand the thoughts, feelings, and habits behind your decisions. In this article, Andrea Farrell explores how mindfulness may reduce financial stress, uncover emotional spending patterns, and help you make money decisions that better reflect your values and long-term goals.

Roth IRA Conversions: Key Tax Considerations for Retirement Planning

Ryan Tomko October 9, 2026

Spend the Money

Dylan Potter September 25, 2026

Financial advisor Dylan Potter believes the true purpose of wealth isn’t simply to accumulate more of it, but to use it to create meaningful experiences with the people who matter most. In this thoughtful reflection, Dylan explores why some of the best investments never appear on a financial statement and why the memories we create may often become our greatest legacy.

Insurance Basics Explained: A Practical Guide to Protecting Income, Assets, and Financial Goals

Michael Carrico September 18, 2026

Insurance is designed to help protect what you’ve built, not grow it—but it’s a critical part of financial wellbeing. In this practical primer, Michael Carrico, CFP®, CRPC®, Wealth Manager at Howe & Rusling, explains the core types of insurance coverage and how thoughtful risk management may help individuals and families avoid major financial setbacks.

Hidden Costs Explained: Expense Ratios, Trading Fees, and Custodian Charges Investors Should Know

Vincent Visconti September 11, 2026

While trading commissions have largely disappeared, many investment costs remain. In this article, Vincent Visconti, Portfolio Operations Manager at Howe & Rusling, breaks down expense ratios, trading costs, and custodian fees to help investors better understand what they may be paying—and why awareness matters.

Oil, AI, and Government Debt

Michael Carrico August 28, 2026

Oil, AI, and government debt may seem like separate economic stories, but they are increasingly connected through the bond market. Michael Carrico, CFP®, CRPC® explores how energy disruptions, inflation, AI infrastructure spending, and rising government borrowing can influence interest rates and what these dynamics may mean for investors.

Saving Options for Kids & Grandkids: Education, Flexibility, and Long‑Term Opportunity

Elizabeth Koch August 21, 2026

Saving for children and grandchildren goes beyond college tuition. This article explores key savings options—from 529 plans to the new Trump Accounts—and how a layered, flexible approach may help families plan confidently for an uncertain future. Written by Elizabeth Koch, Senior Marketing Manager, with insights from Howe & Rusling advisors.

What Is a Power of Attorney? Understanding Types, Authority, and Why It Matters

Jordyn Adams August 7, 2026

A Power of Attorney allows a trusted individual to act on your behalf if needed—but not all Powers of Attorney are the same. In this article, Jordyn Adams, Client Service Manager at Howe & Rusling, explains the different types of Powers of Attorney, how they work, and why having the right structure in place can help reduce stress and complexity for you and your loved ones.

Portfolio Rebalancing 101: What It Is, Why It Matters, and How It Helps Manage Risk

Brett Boyer July 17, 2026

Market movements can cause portfolios to drift away from their intended allocation over time. In this article, Brett Boyer, CFA, Vice President and Senior Equity Analyst at Howe & Rusling, explains portfolio rebalancing, why it matters, and how a disciplined approach may help manage risk and investor behavior over the long term.

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