An Underdog Story: The Taxable Brokerage Account
Have you heard of a savings waterfall? It’s a prioritized framework that helps you decide where to direct your hard-earned savings to maximize tax advantages. These guides are widely used, and they’re helpful. But they almost always share one thing in common: the taxable brokerage account sits at the very bottom of the list. These simplified waterfalls don’t always consider two major components of a […]
The Dementia Planning Conversation Every Family Should Have
At Alaska Wealth Advisors, we believe that true financial planning goes far beyond investment portfolios and retirement projections. It includes the conversations that are hardest to start — and the ones that matter most. That’s why we’re honored to share this piece from Sam Lilly, Communications Director at Alzheimer’s Resource Alaska. In our work with […]
When Individual Securities Make Sense
For most investors, in most situations, the most effective way to build a portfolio has been through low-cost index funds, ETFs, and mutual funds. The reasoning behind that is fairly straightforward, in that these vehicles give you broad diversification at very little cost, and they keep your attention on the thing that actually matters over […]
Wait for the Boom: The HSA’s Hidden Potential
Within every investment vehicle, there are hidden gems, strategies that only reveal themselves through careful research. The Health Savings Account (HSA) is one of them. It flies under the radar far too often, and that’s a missed opportunity. So, let the treasure hunt begin. The Triple Tax Advantage The HSA is widely recognized as […]
The Greatest Gift We Can Give: Navigating the Golden Years Together
This past Mother’s Day served as a beautiful, poignant reminder of what a privilege it is to walk alongside my husband John’s parents as they age. Now in their upper 80s, they continue to live independently—a feat that isn’t just due to luck, but to the power of intentional planning. Through a blend of foresight […]
The Practical Side of Partnership: Designing a Financial Life Together
When you and your partner commit to a life together, joy and excitement rightfully take center stage. The days are filled with picking caterers, dreaming up travel plans, or perhaps planning private vows in the Alaska backcountry. Eventually, however, the inevitable question arises: “How are we going to combine our finances?” While this discussion may […]
Beyond the Business: Defining Your Successful Exit
As a business owner, you’ve worked long hours to build your business and refine it. You’ve faced problems over the years, some of which threatened the success or even the existence of your business, but you found a solution to each one, learning vital lessons along the way. Each decision you make in your business […]
The April 15 Countdown: Maximizing Your 2025 Contributions
As we move through the early months of 2026, many are focused on their tax filings. However, the important date on the calendar isn’t just the filing deadline; it’s the final opportunity to fund your future for the previous year. You have until April 15, 2026, to make your 2025 contributions to Traditional IRAs, Roth […]
The Education Equation: Navigating K–12 Choice and Cost in Alaska
For many families, “education planning” is synonymous with the college years. However, for those of us raising children in Alaska, the financial commitment often begins much earlier. Whether it’s the decision to pursue private school or the choice to supplement a public education with high-level enrichment, K–12 is no longer just a precursor to college; […]
Until You’re Back: The Importance of Temporary Child Guardianship
Life is unpredictable, but ensuring your child is cared for while you’re away doesn’t have to be. Temporary guardianship provides a clear, practical way to appoint a responsible adult to handle caregiving duties and offers added security and peace of mind. It authorizes the chosen individual to assume the duties of a legal guardian for […]