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What’s on our mind? You can read about it in the Synergy blog. Whether it’s ideas from the industry or emerging trends, you can learn about it here. And once in a while, we may throw in a movie review or some other surprise. So keep checking in. Thanks for visiting...we’re glad to have you reading along!

Tuesday, July 22, 2025

From Carrie Letsinger: Isaac Newton might be smiling if he looked at the charts for eggs, cocoa, and coffee prices. To traders, they are a lesson on how markets can reach an extreme and then correct. But to Newton, they...

Tuesday, July 8, 2025

From Harry Overton: Sometimes, it feels like the world is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and this month's chart illustrates a trend that affects all of us as investors. When corporations become more efficient, they..

Tuesday, June 24, 2025

From Chris Bordner: During the most recent round of shareholder calls, CEOs had one big question to answer: “What’s going on with tariffs?” In earlier quarters of 2024, the focus was on inflation and artificial intelligence. But...

Tuesday, June 10, 2025

From David Peckham: “Be fearful when others are greedy and greedy when others are fearful,” are the words of wisdom from Warren Buffett. There’s just one small catch—it may be the most difficult thing for an investor to do. Over...

Tuesday, May 27, 2025

From Tom Gerardi: Have you heard the expression, “Watch what people do, not what they say?” That’s important these days when it comes to the economic outlook. Some people are “saying” the word recession like it’s a foregone conclusion...

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Tuesday, May 13, 2025

From Shawn Walton: Preparing for a child's college education can often be daunting, and many families wonder if they have waited too long to begin saving— an understandably common concern given that college students and...

Tuesday, April 29, 2025

From Chris Claude: Every investor knows there are highs and lows during the year. The challenge is remaining focused during the lows. As the 2025 tariff talks have progressed, stock prices have seen more down days than up...

Tuesday, April 15, 2025

From Carrie Letsinger: In the early 2000s, the Social Security retirement benefit trust fund was projected to last four decades. As of 2025, the latest Social Security trustee report states the fund is down to less than ten years...

Tuesday, April 1, 2025

From Michael Argenbright: The SECURE Act 2.0 has introduced catch-up contribution choices for those aged 50+, designed to help boost your retirement savings. These enhanced catch-up provisions are available if you're participating in...

Tuesday, March 18, 2025

From Chris Bordner: Warren Buffett once said, "If you mix your politics with your investment decisions, you're making a big mistake.” There appears to be some truth in Buffett’s quote following a contentious 2024 election...

Tuesday, March 4, 2025

From Brian Wise: Have you ever heard the expression, “It’s a buyer’s market?” That phrase describes what’s happening with today’s residential real estate: homes are selling for under their asking price and are taking longer to...

Tuesday, February 18, 2025

From Jim Greene: Retirement & College Creating a retirement strategy is an important financial goal for many investors. But what if you also wanted to help a child or grandchild with higher education costs? Can you have...

Tuesday, February 4, 2025

From Harry Overton: Stock prices were jolted lower in late January on concerns that a “black swan” event may lead to some restructuring in the artificial intelligence (AI) industry. A Chinese AI firm appears to have developed a...

Tuesday, January 21, 2025

From Kyle Williams: As we step into the promise of 2025, it's the perfect time to refresh our financial outlook and align our strategies with the opportunities that lie ahead. The start of a new year invites us to reflect on...

Tuesday, January 7, 2025

From Levi Silvas: With 2024 coming to a close, I want to share my thoughts on America's current fiscal policy, geopolitical elements, and other factors that may help shape 2025's financial landscape. This transition period offers...

Tuesday, December 17, 2024

From David Peckham: As you build your legacy, considering how to leverage your charitable contributions can be a fulfilling endeavor. Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) can offer an opportunity to support your...

Tuesday, December 3, 2024

From Carrie Letsinger: The Federal Reserve approved its second consecutive interest rate cut following its November meeting, telling investors that it’s continuing its push to “right-size monetary policy.” The benchmark Fed funds...

Tuesday, November 19, 2024

From Chris Claude: Stop me if you've heard this one before–“You may care more about the outcome of the presidential election than your portfolio.” As a rule, I avoid discussing politics, but I find it important to contribute...

Tuesday, November 5, 2024

From Preston Bellaire: The Internal Revenue Service released the updated income tax brackets, standard deduction, and retirement contribution limits for the 2025 tax year. While these changes won’t impact you for some time, it may...

Tuesday, October 22, 2024

From Harry Overton: More than 71 million Social Security beneficiaries can expect a 2.5% cost of living adjustment (COLA) increase in 2025, based on the Q3 inflation data so far. In other words, the COLA will raise the average...

Tuesday, October 8, 2024

From Chris Bordner: Election years, particularly presidential elections, traditionally come into focus after Labor Day. This is when many American voters become fully engaged with the process. With that in mind, I often get the...

Tuesday, September 24, 2024

From Tom Gerardi CRPC: September marks the start of College Savings Month! This is the perfect time to focus on preparing for future education expenses. With many of our days filled with work, family, and more, college costs may not...

Tuesday, September 10, 2024

From Tom Henry, Wealth Planner: Life is an amazing journey full of challenges and triumphs. No matter where you are on the journey, preparing can be a key part of success. That’s why we are happy to remind you that September is Life...

Tuesday, August 20, 2024

From Matt Wade, LUTCF, ChFC: We get regular updates on the Social Security trust fund. In early May, the Social Security Board of Trustees announced that the trust funds had revenue to pay full benefits until 2035. Generally speaking...

Tuesday, August 6, 2024

From Shawn Walton, Partner: August is Make a Will Month, a time dedicated to strategizing for the future. You may have seen in the news that Aretha Franklin's loved ones are still caught in a legal battle due to the existence of ...

Thursday, July 25, 2024

From Anthony Safier, CRPC: Investors know that the stock market moves in cycles, but the cycle has seen no daily drops of more than 2 percent for over a year. As the accompanying chart shows, the 2023-2024 stretch of low...

Thursday, July 11, 2024

From Aaron Paul: The challenge with managing inflation is that there are no brakes. Nothing can make inflation “stop on a dime” and then resume at a nice, predictable two-percent annual rate. Policymakers can only guide...

Tuesday, May 28, 2024

From Levi Silvas, Associate Advisor: Bitcoin tends to pop in and out of the headlines. Few financial topics in recent memory have sparked as much imagination and criticism. Unsurprisingly, the latest development with Bitcoin has...

Tuesday, May 14, 2024

From Thomas Henry, Wealth Planner: I don’t know about you, but every time I see headlines that say, “Top 10 Reasons” or “How Much Do You Need,” I click on it. So when I saw the CNBC article, “You’ll need at least $1 million to...

Wednesday, May 1, 2024

From Preston Bellaire, CLTC, LACP: May is a month to celebrate the older Americans in our country and honor their lives and the accomplishments they still have ahead of them. Older Americans Month was established in 1963...

Tuesday, April 16, 2024

From Kyle Williams, Wealth Manager: As a rule, I avoid drawing attention to market anomalies unless I believe there’s a good investing lesson for everyone. The unusual price action in the cocoa market is giving me that opportunity.

Tuesday, April 2, 2024

America is a country on the move. Each year, around 10% of the U.S. population changes homes. And of those, while 85% stay in state, 15% move to a new state (according to the U.S. Census Bureau). As moving across state lines might be...

Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Over the years, I've come to believe that learning to navigate financial discussions and events in a relationship is a "must" that transcends generations. However, recent data shows that Gen Z and Millennial couples are forging their...

Tuesday, March 5, 2024

Tax season is upon us when we reconcile our dues with Uncle Sam. However, it's also a period when some unscrupulous individuals exploit this necessity, conducting scams to defraud unsuspecting taxpayers. In this digital age, tax scams...

Sunday, December 31, 2023

It is almost time to ring in the New Year! As December makes way for January, you may be excited thinking about new possibilities. Perhaps you want to take a moment to "refresh and reset" or make a resolution or two. Or perhaps you...

Tuesday, December 5, 2023

The Senate and the House have returned to work but are unlikely to get much done before the Christmas break— which means January is going to be busy. To recap, Congress passed a short-term budget package before the Thanksgiving...

Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Many consider the University of Michigan the gold standard for reporting on consumer sentiment and trends. Among its 50 monthly reports, the most well-known is the "UMich Consumer Sentiment" survey, which measures consumer confidence....

Friday, October 6, 2023

Investing vs. Saving: Key Differences and Why Your Money Mindset Matters  You often hear people discuss "saving for retirement,” but in many cases, they're actually referring to their investing. The adage "you can't save...

Thursday, September 21, 2023

Smart Savings: 5 Tax Breaks for College Students and Parents 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...

Thursday, September 14, 2023

5 Milestones That Mean It's Time for a Life Insurance Review  Obtaining a life insurance policy is part of being an adult. But it’s also something that you can easily neglect, especially if you obtained it earlier in...

Friday, September 1, 2023

Meet our new employee, Debbie Van Gaale, who recently joined the team at Synergy Wealth Alliance as an Associate Advisor! We’re excited to have her on board and wanted to shine a spotlight on her to help you get to know her a...

Tuesday, August 29, 2023

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.

Wednesday, August 23, 2023

Navigating elder care and elder care finances in the U.S. can be a challenge even for the most well-prepared households. So what, exactly, is involved in senior financial planning?

Friday, August 18, 2023

Meet our new employee, Debbie Van Gaale, who recently joined the team at Synergy Wealth Alliance as an Associate Advisor! We’re excited to have her on board and wanted to shine a spotlight on her to help you get to know her a...

Tuesday, August 15, 2023

As a business owner, prudent financial management can help ensure your business remains healthy and stable. But what does good business financial management look like in practice?

Wednesday, August 9, 2023

Do you know the answer if your financial professional asks you what type of investor you are? While it may be challenging to classify yourself off the top of your head, knowing what type of investor you are might help.

Tuesday, August 1, 2023

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.

Tuesday, July 18, 2023

In 1938, Harvard researchers began a groundbreaking study to answer a timeless question: What makes us happy in life? Over the decades, the study has followed 724 people from diverse backgrounds, collecting health records.

Friday, July 14, 2023

Over the next twenty years, a wealth transfer will occur that exceeds $30 trillion as the Baby Boomer generation passes the remainder of their wealth to the Millennials and subsequent generations.

Wednesday, July 5, 2023

Summer is the perfect season to get outside and enjoy the sunshine, warm weather, fresh air, and a wide range of outdoor activities.

Saturday, July 1, 2023

Freedom is not won by sitting idly and hoping for a miracle. Financial freedom requires vision, courage, and sacrifice for a higher goal. The Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) movement is a part of that vision.

Tuesday, June 27, 2023

Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, your college student can remain on your health insurance plan until age 26. But there are other insurances you may want to consider for your college student while they're away from home.

Tuesday, June 20, 2023

Summer is here and with it are fanciful dreams of owning a second, seasonal home. This no doubt sounds enticing, but fulfilling this dream takes attention to detail and a firm vision of your long-term goals.

Wednesday, June 14, 2023

A lot of planning and money goes into having the best trip possible—but should you buy travel insurance to protect yourself in the event of unforeseen changes and emergencies?

Wednesday, June 7, 2023

This is the perfect time to take steps to help your home avoid damage from summer storms and other weather. Hurricane season runs from June to November, and it's also prime time for tornadoes and more. Here are some tips to consider.

Tuesday, June 6, 2023

The super popular smash-style burgers are taken outside to the grill in this recipe! These burgers are perfectly seared, covered in cheese and drenched in a special sauce.

Thursday, May 25, 2023

Those that choose to invest in the education of a family member, friend or acquaintance are investing not only in that individual’s future, but also the future of society. It is an act of generosity, forward-thinking, and love....

Thursday, May 18, 2023

We all want to grow in our careers; after all, no one wants to be stuck in the same job for years and years. But in order to achieve any type of professional success, we must continually push ourselves and develop our skills. How do we...

Thursday, May 11, 2023

Small businesses may often find themselves struggling, and there are many situations in which business owners may find themselves weathering a storm and hoping to make it through. While the strength and fortitude of those who run small...

Wednesday, May 3, 2023

When it feels like the galaxy’s forces are all working against you when it comes to your finances, fighting back may seem incredibly daunting. However, becoming a financial Jedi Master is not as hard as you think. Here are four...

Monday, May 1, 2023

A life insurance policy is part of financial planning. Life insurance is there to help ease the financial trauma that comes with the loss of a spouse, parent, or partner. As you encounter different events in your life, you may need to...

Thursday, April 27, 2023

A 2022 Gallup Poll found that 58% of all adult Americans own stock. The top 1% owns more than half the total amount invested among those who own stock. 1 Making investing possible for your children, nieces, nephews and other loved ones...

Wednesday, April 19, 2023

Thoughts from a financial professional When helping people get ready for retirement, financial professionals find the same issues come up over and over. Thinking ahead can spell the difference between a retirement with enough money and...

Thursday, April 13, 2023

With April’s federal tax filing and payment deadline on the horizon, Americans are dotting their i’s and crossing their t’s as they prepare for the countdown to Tax Day. But before you rush to get that return out the...

Wednesday, April 12, 2023

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...

Thursday, April 6, 2023

The financial markets’ resilient performance during March was striking, despite pockets of uncertainty surrounding the strength of the economy—and not to mention concerns over the durability of the banking system. The...

Sunday, April 2, 2023

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...

Thursday, March 23, 2023

Everyone needs to clean-up their financial clutter at least once a year Spring is traditionally the time to clean the garage and to get the yard in shape. It’s also a great time to clean up your investment portfolio. Going into...

Monday, March 13, 2023

Financial markets were shaken last week as Silicon Valley Bank (SVB), the California bank subsidiary of SVB Financial Group (SIVB), fell into FDIC receivership. SVB is the first FDIC-insured institution to fail since 2020 and the...

Thursday, March 9, 2023

INFLATION WORRIES AND WHAT TO DO, AND THE INTERSECTION OF ADDICTION & TECHNOLOGYThere are three simple keys to investing that you use as a framework for thinking about different types of investments and how they fit into a...

Tuesday, March 7, 2023

In the U.S., men are investing and accumulating wealth at a greater pace than women, fueling the gender investing gap. Closing the investing gap is essential so that women accumulate enough retirement assets for their entire lives. On...

Monday, March 6, 2023

Please join us in extending a synergizing welcome to Chris Reed! He joins us from his office in Oocala as an LPL  Financial Advisor.Since 2002, Chris has been helping people make informed choices with their money to pursue their...

Wednesday, March 1, 2023

Financial markets have experienced quite a bit of change this year in just two short months. We started the year hopeful that stocks would benefit from a better economic and monetary policy environment by the spring, but recent...

Wednesday, March 1, 2023

Did you know that insurance companies typically consider your credit history, whether positive or negative, when you apply for auto or homeowners insurance?  Insurers may use your credit information when deciding whether to...

Thursday, February 23, 2023

Everyone should have a savings account. Savings are important so you can work toward your financial goals and have funds prepared in case of an emergency. Having multiple savings accounts can be a good idea, too, one or more of which...

Thursday, February 16, 2023

What is business tax planning?When starting a business, you must consider a number of tax-related issues. Although business tax planning is a complicated area, it is essential to understand three major topics: tax consequences when the...

Monday, February 13, 2023

Looking for ways to save "I love you" on Valentine's Day? Then you may want to consider opening a spousal individual retirement account (IRA). This gift says, "Let's grow old together comfortably," and shows your partner that you care...

Thursday, February 9, 2023

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...

Tuesday, February 7, 2023

1. What is long-term Care?Long-term care refers to the ongoing services and support needed by people who have chronic health conditions or disabilities. There are three levels of long-term care:Skilled care: Generally round-the-clock...

Thursday, February 2, 2023

Whether you’re one to set ambitious New Year’s resolutions or simply use the beginning of the year to reset on a few habits, there’s almost always some value in reflecting on the past year before looking ahead. The...

Thursday, February 2, 2023

Developing effective strategies for pursuing your goals within the limits of your particular financial circumstances can be difficult. Each stage of your life may create new financial challenges. Sending your child to college,...

Monday, January 30, 2023

Identity theft runs rampant during tax seasonHere’s what to know and how you can help protect yourself.Identity thieves often swipe your bank or credit card account numbers, birth date information or Social Security Number (SSN)...

Friday, January 20, 2023

Habits create a domino effect; once you begin a habit and stick with it, you can see the effects of it flowing into other areas of your life, for better or worse. But what if it’s easier than you think to make the healthy...

Thursday, January 12, 2023

Improving return by minimizing taxesAlthough we are all obligated to pay our fair share of taxes, few of us would be pleased to pay taxes unnecessarily. Because taxes lower the actual return on your investments, you should be...

Tuesday, January 10, 2023

We are pleased to announce that Preston J. Bellaire has joined Synergy Wealth Alliance!Preston has been servicing investors in the Central Florida area and beyond since 2002. After working closely with the firm at LPL Financial the...

Thursday, January 5, 2023

We wish you a happy New Year and hope you were able to close out 2022 with friends and family.The beginning of a calendar year is often the time when the previous year’s reflections transition to a new year’s hopes. Given...

Thursday, January 5, 2023

Change may be difficult, especially when you try to change your financial habits. The process might be easier if you take an incremental approach. Do you want to get on top of your finances this year? Are you looking for ways to...

Wednesday, December 28, 2022

A resolution for every month to help you work towards financial independence Cleaning up personal finances remains one of the top resolutions every New Year. But we all know what happens to most such self-promises, so here’s a...

Tuesday, December 20, 2022

As you take a moment to reflect upon all of the things that bring you comfort and joy this holiday season, consider giving back to those in need. Whether you are participating in an organized fundraiser or diving headfirst into your...

Monday, December 12, 2022

If you struggle to find a gift for the person who has everything—or want to do your holiday shopping without having to leave the house—consider giving stock as a gift. Doing so is easier than you think, and it may offer a...

Thursday, December 8, 2022

If you ask someone their favorite part of the holiday season, giving or receiving gifts will likely be their response nine times out of ten. Gift-giving is a huge part of the holidays—it’s why there are entire days...

Wednesday, November 30, 2022

The end of the year 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 twelve days,...

Monday, November 21, 2022

While Black Friday and Cyber Monday center on consumer deals, Giving Tuesday—the Tuesday after Thanksgiving—has a different focus. Each year, individuals and corporations are encouraged to use the day to support charities...

Monday, November 14, 2022

Black Friday is sometimes the largest shopping holiday of the entire year. Millions of people typically shop in stores or online on Black Friday to score the top deals on must-have holiday gifts. While it may be easy to become...

Monday, November 7, 2022

The vast majority of Americans need long-term care. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 70% of people over age 65 may need some long-term care during their lives.1 Unfortunately, planning for long-term care...

Wednesday, November 2, 2022

The average U.S. income tax rate stands at just over 13%—and if you're like many taxpayers, you're always looking for new tips and tricks to help reduce this percentage.1There are a number of different tax planning moves you can...

Tuesday, October 25, 2022

More consumers are conducting financial transactions online and may become vulnerable to tracking, hacking, identity theft, phishing scams, and other cyberspace risks. While nothing can guarantee complete safety on the Internet,...

Monday, October 17, 2022

Basic estate planning is something that everyone should do, regardless of your age, marital status, the value of your assets, and if you’re a parent or not.  According to a 2021 poll by Gallup, less than half of U.S. adults...

Wednesday, October 12, 2022

With the cost of long-term care (LTC) increasing year over year, considering how the costs of long-term LTC will impact your financial plan is essential. According to insurance company Genworth, the price of LTC services increased...

Monday, October 3, 2022

Financial planning is unique for each person; no two financial plans look the same because everyone's life and personal goals are different. Regardless of what your goals are, financial planning can help you work towards achieving them...

Friday, September 23, 2022

Natural disasters like wildfires, floods, earthquakes, tornadoes, and long-term power outages don't discriminate—they may impact anyone at any time. However, you don't need to live your life under the constant stress of expecting...

Tuesday, September 20, 2022

Never shy away from incorporating pumpkin into fall cooking, especially in savory dishes. The epitome of a fall casserole—layers of pumpkin, cheese, and bacon meld together perfectly for a taste of the season in every bite...

Friday, September 16, 2022

For many, autumn is the best time of year. The return of cool breezes, comforting foods, and pumpkins can be invigorating. It’s also a bookmark of sorts, especially for your finances—a perfect time to take stock of your...

Monday, September 12, 2022

You may already be aware of the importance of having enough life insurance coverage to handle financial matters that could affect your family in the event of your death. However, determining the appropriate amount of coverage for your...

Monday, September 5, 2022

Asset Allocation and Diversification-Are you an aggressive, moderate, or conservative investor? Your answer probably depends in large part on your stage in life and your financial resources, and will most likely change over time...

Thursday, September 1, 2022

According to the College Board, the most recently published figures of the average annual cost of tuition and fees at a public university for the 2021-2022 school year was $10,740 for in-state students and $27,560 for out-of-state...

Monday, August 22, 2022

If you’re retired, there’s good news in that you’ll probably live longer and perhaps better than your parents and grandparents did. The bad news: You’ll live a longer and perhaps more expensive life, too.You...

Monday, August 15, 2022

If you're living paycheck-to-paycheck or stuck in a job you don't love just to pay the bills, it can be easy to feel as though you're financially trapped. But financial freedom doesn't need to be elusive—with some focused and...

Monday, August 8, 2022

Twenty-one U.S. states, including Kentucky, Texas, and Virginia, require public schools to provide high school students with financial literacy courses.1 But even among the school systems that provide general financial...

Monday, August 1, 2022

Labor Day is right around the corner. The weather is starting to turn a little cooler, college football returns and the kids are back in school. For me, it’s always been the kids going back to school that really marked the end of...

Wednesday, July 20, 2022

With the onset of higher taxes, taxpayers in the upper brackets may want to reposition their portfolios. Even those in lower tax brackets may benefit from portfolio review and reallocation of funds. Consider the following: For a...

Monday, July 18, 2022

Amid the draining heat of mid-summer, do you remember your New Year’s resolutions regarding your personal financial planning? How are you coming with your to-do list?Time passes. Our children grow up and we get older. Sand keeps...

Thursday, July 14, 2022

For members of the "Sandwich Generation"—those currently in their 40s and 50s who are caring for children and their parents who are over 65-years old—estate planning may seem like a low priority. After all, when you're...

Tuesday, July 5, 2022

Legendary investor Warren Buffett is famous for his long-term perspective. He has said that he likes to make investments he would be comfortable holding even if the market shut down for 10 years.Investing with an eye toward the long...

Friday, July 1, 2022

A regular program of disciplined financial practices can help you in the long-run Many people realize that the best way to stay in shape is to develop an appropriate fitness regimen and then stick with it. If you start a fitness...

Monday, June 20, 2022

As summer heats up, it pays to take a good look at how flexible you are. When you plan for the future, you need to be adaptable. No one knows what tomorrow holds.This is certainly true in the world of work. In a few short months, we...

Monday, June 13, 2022

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing is on the rise throughout the world. A 2018 study from Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government found that ESG investing now accounts for nearly $30 trillion, which...

Monday, June 6, 2022

Even though housing prices throughout much of the U.S. are at or near all-time highs, there are still many distinct financial advantages to owning a home.1 From tax benefits to capital gains exclusions and guaranteed rates of return,...

Wednesday, June 1, 2022

When it comes to your retirement, there are three factors that you may want to take into account when planning for your retirement income needs. First, the deductibility of Individual Retirement Account (IRA) contributions is...

Friday, May 20, 2022

Whether your child was just born or is heading toward high school graduation, a 529 savings plan may help you put aside funds to pay for college expenses without paying taxes (federal and some states) on any dividends and gains.1...

Friday, May 13, 2022

It can be fairly easy to underestimate your net worth. After all, predicting the future value of your home and savings is merely hypothetical. On the other hand, you can rely on the fixed amount of the death benefit provided by your...

Friday, May 6, 2022

If you are self-employed or own a small business and you haven't established a retirement savings plan, what are you waiting for? A retirement plan can help you and your employees save for the future. Tax Advantages A retirement plan...

Sunday, May 1, 2022

When people think of life insurance, what usually comes to mind is settling the deceased's final expenses and providing financial support for their beneficiaries. Although these are the most common uses of life insurance, cash value,...

Wednesday, April 20, 2022

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. The other half...

Monday, April 18, 2022

A green future is a prosperous one, and it is essential for everyone to do their part to ensure the future stays bright. Earth day may be the ideal time to find ways to invest in the planet so that the current generation and future...

Monday, April 4, 2022

Are you worried about the current state of the Social Security system and how its future may affect your retirement income? It’s important to take a long, hard look at your current savings strategy to ensure you’ll be able...

Friday, April 1, 2022

As we approach tax day 2022, you may be expecting to receive a tax refund. While you may have a temptation to spend your tax return, other options may be more beneficial to your financial situation. Your tax refund is for overpayment...

Tuesday, March 22, 2022

Amanda comes to us with ten years of experience in financial services. She began working at a local Central Florida firm in the new business department where she got off to a fast start. She was quickly promoted to a corporate role where sh

Friday, March 18, 2022

Spring cleaning presents a great opportunity to clear out any items you no longer need—and the same goes for your finances. Checking in with your finances during tax season may be particularly beneficial, as it allows you to...

Friday, March 11, 2022

As more and more consumers search for financial information on the Internet, they may inadvertently leave themselves open to being “tracked” by certain companies and individuals. Visitors to financial websites have created...

Thursday, March 10, 2022

Before working at Synergy Wealth Alliance, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had? I worked at Solly Stables (a horse farm) in Philadelphia from a very young age until I was 16 training horses, doing farm...

Friday, March 4, 2022

Many women manage their own money. This includes women who have always been doing so and women who are relatively new to the world of investing, for whatever reason. Regardless of your level of investing experience, there are certain...

Tuesday, March 1, 2022

March is National Credit Education Month in the U.S., which makes it the perfect opportunity to brush up on your credit basics.1 Whether you're a credit novice or well-versed in the art of the FICO score, below are four ways to...

Monday, February 21, 2022

In the past, boomers and generation Xers often held on to jobs for 10 or more years. Some professionals stayed with the same company for most of their working lives. The Great Recession changed this for many. Now, people have become...

Monday, February 14, 2022

Tax preparation tools and products continue to evolve even more quickly than the federal tax code itself. Which tax prep tools are worth the hype, and which may be passed over? Below we discuss five high-tech tools to help make tax...

Tuesday, February 8, 2022

We are pleased to announce our partnership with Synergy Wealth Alliance! After working closely with the firm at LPL Financial over the last year, we have seen first-hand the benefits that our clients would receive through a united...

Monday, February 7, 2022

Today, many people are concerned about saving for retirement or paying for a large ticket item, such as a child’s college education. If you belong to this group, now may be the time to organize your finances. It is never too...

Tuesday, February 1, 2022

Many IRA and retirement plan limits are indexed for inflation each year. Although the amount you can contribute to IRAs remains the same in 2022, other key numbers will increase, including how much you can contribute to a work-based...

Friday, January 28, 2022

Friday, January 21, 2022

Friday, January 21, 2022

Before working at Synergy Wealth Alliance, what was the most unusual or interesting job you have ever had? 45 years ago, I was a Park Operations Manager at Sea World of Florida. At that time, all-day admission was: Adults $1.95 and...

Friday, January 14, 2022

Tuesday, January 11, 2022

Guy Blakey is an LPL Financial Advisor and has been in the financial services industry for over 35 years. He holds a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation from the College for Financial Planning and holds the security...

Friday, January 7, 2022

Saturday, January 1, 2022

We’re Growing Again! Synergy Wealth Alliance has officially partnered with First Financial Counselors. Please join us in welcoming our newest team members to the Altamonte Springs family: Karl Willard, CFP®, Partner, Wealth...

Wednesday, December 15, 2021

Wednesday, December 15, 2021

Wednesday, December 15, 2021

Wednesday, December 15, 2021

Wednesday, December 1, 2021

Who or what inspired you to become an advisor? Was it a moment in your life or do you have a love of finances or helping people? Were you inspired by another advisor? When I was working on the institutional side I realized there are so...

Tuesday, November 30, 2021

Who or what inspired you to become an advisor? Was it a moment in your life or do you have a love of finances or helping people? Were you inspired by another advisor? In 2001 my father died suddenly from cancer, then in 2006 my...

Tuesday, November 30, 2021

Regardless of size, companies can benefit when the community in which they do business thrives. For entrepreneurs, giving back to the community may be more than just a charitable act; it can also make good business sense. If you have...

Saturday, November 27, 2021

There’s no question that November and December are the biggest times of year for shopping. But this year, it’s more important than ever to shop small and benefit your community. Supporting local businesses means...

Friday, November 19, 2021

For some, 2021 has flown by—and as we approach the last quarter of the year, it's a good time to begin planning for the next one. Year-end planning is especially important for retirees and those hoping to retire in 2021 or 2022....

Friday, November 12, 2021

What do you think of when you hear the words long-term care (LTC)? If you are like most people, the first image that may come to mind is a bedridden, elderly individual who requires constant care, along with various medical treatments...

Monday, November 1, 2021

It may be easy to forget we're nearing the end of the year. Even during the busy end of year rush, it's a good time to reevaluate your 2021 finances and turn an eye toward 2022. What can you do now to potentially improve and streamline...

Wednesday, October 6, 2021

Description There are specific rules addressing distributions and rollovers of a Roth 401(k), which combines features of Roth IRAs and a traditional 401(k). We offer an overview of the key considerations. Body The Roth 401(k) has...

Wednesday, October 6, 2021

Being a woman in business today comes with many obstacles, but it may also bring some unique advantages and opportunities. By navigating challenges and taking advantage of opportunities that come their way, women can go further in...

Wednesday, October 6, 2021

Organization, efficiency and discipline can be considered as three primary steps of financial planning. Organization is knowing where your money comes and goes. An efficient portfolio means working towards a better chance of profits,...

Wednesday, September 29, 2021

Small businesses face many problems related to their size, capital, and capability, and for women-owned small businesses, the challenge is sometimes even greater. The good news is there are many professional organizations out there...

Friday, September 24, 2021

It’s tempting to give up on data security altogether, with all the billions of pieces of personal data – Social Security numbers, credit cards, home addresses, phone numbers, passwords and much more – breached and...

Wednesday, September 22, 2021

If you are wondering what in the world a “backdoor Roth IRA” is, you're not alone! In short, if you've been frustrated by the contribution limits associated with Roth IRAs, then read on - this article describes a strategy...

Thursday, September 9, 2021

Implementing a 401(k) plan for your employees is good business. It means you're thinking strategically, that you care for your employees, and are focused on the long-term health of your company. Implementing a retirement plan: Can help...

Thursday, September 2, 2021

2020 was one of the most disruptive years ever for the U.S. job market, almost as significant as the unemployment during the Great Depression in 1933 and surpassing joblessness during the Great Recession from 2006 to 2008. Many...

Monday, August 30, 2021

Have you ever thought about the important role life insurance can play in helping you manage a variety of important financial objectives? Let’s look at some “slice of life” hypothetical examples and you’ll see...

Friday, August 27, 2021

Have you every wondered how estate planning might fit into your overall, future plans? Even if you are just starting to build your estate and do not need complex estate planning, here’s a quick look at some steps you should...

Thursday, August 26, 2021

There is a common misconception that estate planning is something only the affluent need to do before they die. However, estate planning is important for everyone, regardless of income level or net worth. Planning for the disposition...

Sunday, August 1, 2021

Whatever your age, it’s never too soon to look ahead and begin giving thought to your retirement. With proper planning, you can make the transition to retirement a smooth, comfortable and confident ride. Today, more than ever,...

Thursday, July 15, 2021

Small businesses are part of the backbone of the U.S. economy, providing jobs, services, products, and stability for millions of families. But how much do you really know about small businesses? Test your knowledge with our...

Friday, July 9, 2021

We are experiencing the biggest remote work experiment in history – but many are beginning to imagine life after lockdown. Amid unprecedented global job losses, concerns about transport infrastructure and the continuing need for...

Sunday, June 6, 2021

One of the best things you can do for yourself and/or your family is to be prepared to manage your finances responsibly. Even if you see investing as overwhelming or complicated and boring, you need to know the basics behind a...

Sunday, June 6, 2021

As temperatures start to heat up and the days get longer, summer fun can kick into gear. Looking for things to do this summer? Then, check out this list of fun and relaxing summertime ideas. 1. Be a tourist in your own area You don't...

Sunday, June 6, 2021

One of the biggest challenges for any new business involves maintaining liquidity and consistent cash flow. Many entrepreneurs take only a minimal salary—if any at all—during the first few years their business operates,...

Wednesday, May 5, 2021

Small business owners should conduct an annual assessment of their personal finances. Owners of small businesses have much the same concerns as everyone else, except they are personally responsible for the fortunes of their enterprise....

Friday, April 16, 2021

Everyone needs to make smart financial decisions that steer them toward financial independence. When people thrive financially, they may feel less financial stress, leading them to accomplish short and long-term financial goals. Here...

Friday, April 9, 2021

Is it about getting the money back or minimizing the risk of bad outcomes? Although Social Security did not come into existence until 1935, it can trace its roots back to the first national pension program for soldiers that was passed...

Thursday, April 1, 2021

Long known as a day for pranks, the April Fool's holiday has a few possible origins[1] and has been celebrated in many countries for centuries. The holiday is typically marked by the delivery of practical jokes, at the end of which...

Tuesday, March 9, 2021

You just finished your taxes, but it's not too early to make plans for next year. It's important that as you build your plan, you think about some strategies to reduce or defer your taxes now or in the future. Here are some strategies...

Wednesday, March 3, 2021

With so many tax provisions tweaked in 2020—from the CARES Act in March to the Consolidated Appropriation Act in December—some taxpayers may find it challenging to get everything together in time to file their taxes by the...

Wednesday, February 24, 2021

Tax identity theft is when someone steals your Social Security Number, files a tax return with your number, and directs a refund to their own bank account. In other cases, this type of identity theft may involve a scam artist calling...

Thursday, February 4, 2021

Your business plan is an important part of creating a business and a critical tool for drawing in lenders and investors. If you're thinking about launching a small business or if you want to take your small business in a new direction,...

Thursday, February 4, 2021

Tax time is the busiest time of the year for most accountants, but as a client, you can take steps to make this time of year slightly easier on your CPA. When your accountant is less stressed, they have more energy to give your tax...

Thursday, February 4, 2021

There comes a point in time when almost every small business owner contemplates the future of his or her business. Because “the business” typically is a substantial asset, an owner must address a number of estate planning...

Thursday, January 28, 2021

“In the short term, the market is a popularity contest. In the long term, the market is a weighing machine.” -Warren Buffett The incredible action from some of the most heavily shorted names has investors everywhere...

Tuesday, January 26, 2021

While the 2020 tax year saw some significant changes to filing deadlines due to the effects of the global pandemic, the 2021 tax season seems to be set to be on track with normal filing deadlines. With the pandemic still in sight, it...

Tuesday, January 19, 2021

Taking a closer look at whether it might be appropriate for your situation Since it first became available in 2006, many employers have added the Roth 401(k) to their benefit packages as a retirement savings option. A Roth option is...

Tuesday, January 12, 2021

New Year's is traditionally the time to review your life and make resolutions for change. In addition to thinking about working out, eating healthy, and meeting personal and professional goals, you should also think about your finances...

Wednesday, January 6, 2021

Well, we can officially say goodbye to 2020. Although there still will be many challenges in 2021, we do see much better times ahead. Just how amazing was it? “2020 will go down in history as the first year to ever be down 30% at...

Wednesday, January 6, 2021

Well, we can officially say goodbye to 2020. Although there still will be many challenges in 2021, we do see much better times ahead. Just how amazing was it? “2020 will go down in history as the first year to ever be down 30% at...

Tuesday, January 5, 2021

Use your best comparison-shopping skills when choosing a financial advisor Many financially successful people are comparison shoppers. If you’re one, you pore over ratings in consumer magazines, read websites for reviews and...

Monday, January 4, 2021

After months of intense debate, the House and Senate voted to pass a second COVID-19 economic stimulus bill and the President has signed it into law.1 At a total cost of $900 billion, this 5,600-page bill[1] contains everything from...

Tuesday, December 22, 2020

Understanding the income ranges and contribution limits for next year Tax law places limits on the dollar amount of contributions that you can make to Individual Retirement Accounts and by law, the IRS is required to adjust these...

Tuesday, December 15, 2020

2020 has been one of the most unprecedented years in recent history, but some things—like tax contributions and retirement deadlines—don't change much, if at all. And with the uncertainty surrounding just about everything,...

Wednesday, December 9, 2020

Tuesday, we released our 2021 market views in Outlook 2021: Powering Forward. We are extremely proud of this report and we can’t wait to hear your feedback! As we explain in Outlook 2021, we anticipate a strong earnings rebound...

Tuesday, December 8, 2020

It’s hard to look ahead to the next year, to 2021, without looking back at 2020. A global pandemic, a massive economic collapse, a bear market, a surprisingly sharp reversal, a hotly contested election where passions ran high,...

Thursday, December 3, 2020

Adjustments for deductions, tax rate schedules and 60 other tax provisions. The Internal Revenue Service announced annual inflation adjustments for the 2021 tax year for more than 60 tax provisions, including standard deductions and...

Tuesday, December 1, 2020

The holiday season is just a short time away, which means the shopping season is about to be in full swing. Shopping for holiday gifts is stressful but also a little fun, especially when you think about the joy you will bring to those...

Tuesday, November 24, 2020

Thanksgiving is one of the most widely celebrated holidays in both the U.S. and Canada with the purpose of celebrating the blessings of the past year. It is known as one of the busiest travel holidays of the year and in the U.S is most...

Thursday, November 19, 2020

Small business owners are different from the average hourly employee in a lot of ways. One often-overlooked difference is how they plan for retirement. Although small business owners may offer a classic 401(k) for their workers along...

Friday, November 13, 2020

The holiday season is just around the corner and many charitable organizations are in desperate need of donations to help provide the vital services needed in the community. You are most often inundated with a number of charitable...

Thursday, November 12, 2020

By the last third of the calendar year, you're likely to have a pretty good idea of what your annual income will be and whether any major expenses or big life changes await you. This can allow you to engage in more robust tax planning,...

Thursday, November 5, 2020

A very quick summary of the biggest economic bill in history for businesses The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security act – the CARES Act – is the largest economic bill in U.S. history and was designed to...

Thursday, November 5, 2020

As of Thursday morning, a winner to the 2020 presidential election has yet to be “officially” declared as several battleground states have yet to be called. Even as more clarity emerges from remaining votes being counted in...

Monday, October 19, 2020

The Week on Wall Street Stocks treaded water last week amid fading prospects for a stimulus bill, fears of a second wave of COVID-19 cases, and increasing political and regulatory pressures on Big Tech companies.The Dow Jones...

Monday, October 12, 2020

The Week on Wall Street Stocks staged a powerful rally last week, riding a wave of optimism over the prospect of the passage of a new fiscal stimulus bill.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 3.27%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Monday, October 5, 2020

The Week on Wall Street Stocks advanced last week, propelled by hopes that legislators may reach an agreement for a new fiscal stimulus package and optimism generated by a few corporate deal announcements and initial public offerings....

Monday, September 28, 2020

The Week on Wall Street Stocks were mixed last week as worries that stretched from Washington D.C., where prospects of a new fiscal stimulus bill dimmed, to Europe, which saw an increase of new COVID-19 cases.The Dow Jones Industrial...

Monday, September 21, 2020

The Week on Wall Street Stocks slipped as the technology sector remained under pressure and a mid-week announcement by the Federal Reserve failed to inspire investors.The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 0.03%, while the Standard...

Monday, September 14, 2020

The Week on Wall Street Stocks traveled a volatile path last week as investors appeared concerned about the upcoming elections, an uncertain economy, and more delays with additional fiscal stimulus. The Dow Jones Industrial Average...

Tuesday, September 8, 2020

The Week on Wall Street A late week sell-off sent stocks broadly lower as investors took some profits after stocks reached all-time highs earlier in the week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 1.82%, while the Standard & Poor’s...

Monday, August 31, 2020

The Week on Wall Street Stocks advanced relentlessly last week on positive COVID-19 developments, encouraging economic data, and a supportive policy shift in the Fed’s approach to its target inflation rate. The Dow Jones Industrial...

Monday, August 24, 2020

The Week on Wall Street Stocks powered to another week of gains as the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite set multiple new record highs along the way.The Dow Jones Industrial Average was essentially unchanged while the Standard & Poor’s 500...

Monday, August 17, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetStock prices drifted higher in an otherwise quiet news week, as a slowdown in new COVID-19 cases outweighed a Congressional impasse on a new fiscal-spending measure. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.81%...

Monday, August 10, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetOverlooking stalled efforts by Congress to pass a new fiscal stimulus bill, stocks marched higher last week with the Dow Jones Industrials leading the way and the NASDAQ Composite setting multiple fresh record...

Monday, August 3, 2020

The Week on Wall Street Stocks were mixed last week amid a busy week of earnings, some troubling economic data, and seemingly little progress on a new fiscal stimulus package.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.16%, while the...

Monday, July 27, 2020

The Week on Wall Street Stocks slipped in the final days of trading last week on higher jobless claims and rising tensions in the U.S.-China relationship. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 0.76%, while the Standard & Poor's 500...

Monday, July 20, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetStocks were mixed last week as investors reacted to positive economic data, progress on a COVID-19 vaccine, and the continued nationwide increase in COVID-19 cases. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 2.29%,...

Monday, July 13, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetStock prices notched solid gains last week, looking past an increase in COVID-19 cases and any potential economic concerns raised by the trend. The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased by 0.96%, while the...

Monday, July 6, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetIn a holiday-shortened week, stock prices turned higher as encouraging economic data outweighed an increase in COVID-19 cases and a rollback in economic re-openings.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 3.25%,...

Monday, July 6, 2020

How did markets perform this week? Stay up to date on stock market news and trends by tuning into Synergy Wealth Alliance's blog each week.

Thursday, July 2, 2020

It’s important for investors to understand that many of the core services they rely on from an experienced wealth advisor are typically not offered on automated platforms.

Monday, June 29, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetA jump in COVID-19 cases dampened investor enthusiasm last week, sending stock prices lower on worries that rising infections could derail the economic recovery. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slumped 3.31%,...

Monday, June 29, 2020

How did markets perform this week? Stay up to date on stock market news and trends by tuning into Synergy Wealth Alliance's blog each week.

Thursday, June 25, 2020

When teaching children about money, incorporate tangible experiences like keeping a money jar and taking a tour of your local bank.

Monday, June 22, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetStocks moved higher last week on news of more Federal Reserve market support and diminished concerns that new COVID-19 cases might lead to another economic shutdown. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.04%,...

Monday, June 22, 2020

How did markets perform this week? Stay up to date on stock market news and trends by tuning into Synergy Wealth Alliance's blog each week.

Thursday, June 18, 2020

It is never a bad time to reassess saving and spending habits and put new resolutions in place. To do so requires creating a formal process to succeed—and that means developing a budget.

Monday, June 15, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetInvestor sentiment turned negative last week, amid an increasing number of COVID-19 cases in states where reopening has been underway as well as a subdued economic forecast from the Federal Reserve. The Dow Jones...

Monday, June 15, 2020

How did markets perform this week? Stay up to date on stock market news and trends by tuning into Synergy Wealth Alliance's blog each week.

Thursday, June 11, 2020

Preparing for the eventual distribution of your assets may not sound enticing. But remember, a will puts the power in your hands. You have worked hard to create a legacy for your loved ones. You deserve to decide what becomes of it.

Monday, June 8, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetA positive jobs report sent stocks soaring last Friday, capping a solid week as evidence of a global economic recovery outweighed concerns over civil unrest and tensions with China.The Dow Jones Industrial...

Monday, June 8, 2020

How did markets perform this week? Stay up to date on stock market news and trends by tuning into Synergy Wealth Alliance's blog each week.

Thursday, June 4, 2020

Technology has not only shrunk the tools we use, but it has also given small businesses the power to operate like big businesses. Read more to view a few top digital tools for small business owners.

Monday, June 1, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetThe shortened week, which began with a powerful two-day rally of trading, was enough to drive the markets into another week of solid gains. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 3.75%, while the Standard &...

Monday, June 1, 2020

How did markets perform this week? Stay up to date on stock market news and trends by tuning into Synergy Wealth Alliance's blog each week.

Friday, May 29, 2020

If you have been meaning to get around to addressing some part of your financial future, maybe it’s time to develop a strategy. Don’t let procrastination keep you from pursuing your financial goals.

Tuesday, May 26, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetUpbeat comments by the Federal Reserve Chairman and more signs of an economic turnaround combined to help fuel a powerful rally in the stock market last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 3.29%, while...

Tuesday, May 26, 2020

How did markets perform this week? Stay up to date on stock market news and trends by tuning into Synergy Wealth Alliance's blog each week.

Monday, May 18, 2020

Index Performance – Week ending 5/15/2020 S&P 500 Index: -2.26% Dow Jones Industrial Average: -2.65% Nasdaq Composite: -1.17% Equities US equities sold off modestly this week. The growth-heavy Nasdaq outperformed among US...

Thursday, May 14, 2020

The Internal Revenue Service knows that many taxpayers have had a stressful spring. So, it has reset the federal tax deadline. You now have until July 15 to file your 1040 form. July 15 is also the deadline to pay any federal taxes...

Tuesday, May 12, 2020

How did markets perform this week? Stay up to date on stock market news and trends by tuning into Synergy Wealth Alliance's blog each week.

Monday, May 11, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetDespite a historic downturn in employment, stocks managed to climb higher last week as investors were emboldened by the pace of economic re-openings, both here and abroad.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 2...

Friday, May 8, 2020

The SECURE Act was passed into law in late 2019 and changed several aspects of retirement investing. These modifications included modifying the ability to stretch an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) and changing the age when IRA...

Monday, May 4, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetStock prices ended the week slightly lower, despite news of positive results from a test trial of a COVID-19 drug treatment and several states easing their economic lockdowns. The Dow Jones Industrial Average...

Friday, April 24, 2020

Our beloved Synergy Family- Daily, we are facing unprecedented challenges together. We know that it can be frightening at times, but we want to assure you that the one thing you don’t need to worry about is support from your...

Monday, April 20, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetStock prices pushed higher last week as news of a White House plan to reopen the economy and reports of a potential COVID-19 treatment helped the market overcome weak economic data and an ugly start to the...

Monday, April 13, 2020

The Week on Wall StreetThe stock market staged a broad rally this week, buoyed by the prospect that COVID-19's grip on the nation may be easing and news of another Federal Reserve program to help stabilize businesses.The Dow Jones...

Wednesday, January 9, 2019

They say there’s an app for almost everything and we're pretty convinced that’s true. What if we told you there are apps out there that can help make your day-to-day activities stress free? Click to find out more!

Wednesday, June 15, 2016

Markets would likely react badly if Britons voted to leave the EU. The situation would create serious uncertainty about the future of the EU, and markets hate uncertainty. We don’t know exactly how a Brexit would play out; many...