Meredith Carbrey

Medicare changes are coming in 2026. Are you ready?

Changes coming to Medicare in 2026 are designed to make health care more affordable and easier to navigate – but understanding what’s new can help you make the most of your benefits.... Read More

The gift that keeps on giving: Using an IRA to fund a charitable gift annuity

According to the National Association of Gift Planners, the first Charitable Gift Annuity (CGA) was created in 1831 when American painter John Trumbull donated his paintings of the American Revolution to Yale University in exchange for a life annuity. Since then, universities, churches, and other charitable organizations have used CGAs. ... Read More

Sending your child off to college? Don’t forget these important documents

My daughter is heading off to college this fall for the first time and the list of tasks to complete before she even steps on the quad is daunting and exciting.  The university has provided to-do items, friends and family have offered tips and tricks, and I just added estate planning to the list.  That’s right, before my 18-year-old daughter leaves our home, she will have executed her financial power of attorney, HIPAA release, healthcare power of attorney, living will, and last will and testament.... Read More

HSA contributions for adult children on your health plan

Why are Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) popular savings vehicles? Contributions are made with pre-tax dollars, the funds grow tax-deferred, and withdrawals are tax-free if used for qualified healthcare expenses. That's a triple-tax advantage!  ... Read More

Act Now! This Deal Won’t Last!

Does this title look like every other email subject in your inbox? Then you know it’s the holiday season. But don’t rush to click on these enticing offers. Put down your phone and start making a holiday plan.... Read More

Board service: Are your actions covered by insurance?

Perhaps you have long championed a charitable cause, and your hard work has landed you a position on a non-profit board. Or, perhaps you were asked to sit on an amazing corporate board.  Before you say "yes," it is important to ask questions.... Read More

Tax refund: Save or spend?

When planning for taxes, most of us target (or hope!) for a small refund or a small tax bill. However, you might receive a larger-than-expected refund for any number of reasons. So what should you do with your windfall? ... Read More

Loss of a loved one

The loss of a spouse or life partner is traumatic, especially during the holidays.  Research indicates that deaths increase during the holiday season and winter months, but there is no significant known factor... Read More

Student loans 101

There’s been a lot of discussion about the cost of college, student loans, and student loan forgiveness – with good reason. According to eLearningWorld, college costs have increased 4.6 times more than inflation over the past 50 years. ... Read More

Clever car rental cost saving tips

Between car shortages and increased travel, renting a car has become more difficult and expensive. If you are renting a car, try some of these cost-saving tips.... Read More