by Judy Carlson | Jan 7, 2026 | Annuities, Long-Term Care, Medicare, Social Security, Taxes, Wealth Management
It may not be a comfortable question. Most couples may not want to think about it, talk about it, or imagine it. And yet, planning for the death of a spouse may be one of the most important financial planning questions a couple can ask—before they ever need the...
by Judy Carlson | Oct 9, 2025 | 401(k), Financial Advisor, Investments, Long-Term Care, Medicare, Retirement, Social Security, Wealth Management
When you hear the word plan, what comes to mind? Maybe it’s your calendar. A recipe. Directions on your GPS. Each of these may have one thing in common: they tell you what to do next. That’s the heart of a true plan—clear steps that guide you toward a goal. And yet,...
by Judy Carlson | Aug 24, 2025 | Medicare, Retirement, Taxes
When you think about retirement costs, Medicare premiums probably aren’t the first thing that come to mind. But there’s a little-known surcharge—IRMAA—that can quietly eat into your income. And it can hit harder than you think. What Is IRMAA, Really? IRMAA stands for...
