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Fraud Awareness for Families: Protecting What Matters Most

Fraud Awareness for Families: Protecting What Matters Most

International Fraud Awareness Week takes place the week of November 10th, making it the perfect time for families and household decision makers to pause and assess how protected their finances, identities, and communication channels really are. For busy professionals balancing work, children, and evolving responsibilities, fraud prevention is not a one-time task. It is an ongoing part of financial well-being.

Below we highlight the main fraud types currently targeting families, how they work, and practical steps to avoid becoming a victim.

1. Imposter or “Family Member in Trouble” Scams

A very emotionally charged fraud involves scammers posing as a relative, often a grandchild, or as an authority figure claiming a family member is in trouble. They create urgency and pressure you to act fast, usually demanding money or gift cards.

How to avoid it:

  • Pause and verify before acting. Hang up and call the relative directly using a known number.
  • Never send money via wire transfer, gift card, or cryptocurrency.
  • Be alert to voice cloning scams that replicate a loved one’s voice.
  • Talk with children and older relatives about these scams and establish a family rule to always verify first.
2. Online Shopping and Subscription Scams

Fraudsters often use fake websites, ads, and social media posts to trick families into buying products that never arrive or signing up for “free trials” that charge hidden fees later.1,2

How to avoid it:

  • Shop only from trusted websites with secure payment options.
  • Use credit cards instead of debit cards for better fraud protection.
  • Regularly review household subscriptions and cancel any you do not recognize.
  • Remind kids and teens to be skeptical of online deals that seem too good to be true.
3. Investment and Job Opportunity Scams

Busy and entrepreneurial families can be targeted with “can’t miss” investments or remote job offers that promise easy money. Many of these are designed to steal funds or personal information.

How to avoid it:

  • Be cautious of anyone promising guaranteed returns or quick profits.
  • Research companies and verify registrations before investing.
  • Never pay upfront fees for a job opportunity.
  • Discuss potential opportunities with your family or advisor before acting.
4. Identity Theft and Account Takeover

Fraud is not always about sending money. It can involve stealing personal data to open credit lines, redirect funds, or access your accounts. Children’s identities are increasingly being used because they often go unchecked for years.3

How to avoid it:

  • Use strong and unique passwords and enable two factor authentication.
  • Check credit reports annually for all adults and periodically for children.
  • Keep devices and software updated and teach everyone in the household how to recognize phishing messages.

Have a plan for what to do if you suspect an account has been compromised.

5. Deepfake and Voice Cloning Scams

With today’s technology, scammers can sound or even look like the people closest to us. A call or message from a loved one might seem genuine, which is why it’s important to take a moment to double-check before responding.

How to avoid it:

  • Create a family passphrase that must be used before discussing urgent financial requests.
  • Verify through a separate channel before sending money or personal details.
  • Make sure all generations in the household are aware of this emerging threat.
Staying a Step Ahead

Fraud Awareness Week is an opportunity to start a family conversation about safety. Use it to review passwords, set up verification steps, and remind everyone to slow down and think before acting on emotional requests. Treat fraud prevention as an essential part of your household’s financial wellness plan.

 

We Are Here to Help

If you believe you or a family member may have fallen victim to fraud, our advisor team is here to help. We can assist you in reviewing your accounts, coordinating with your financial institutions, and strengthening protections going forward.

Reach out to our office any time. You are not alone, and quick action can make all the difference.

  1. https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight/2023/10/social-media-golden-goose-scammers. Accessed 10/24/2025
  2. https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/fraudtactics/ Accessed 10/24/2025
  3. https://nypost.com/2024/03/20/lifestyle/kids-are-at-high-risk-of-identity-theft-experts-warn-heres-how-parents-can-protect-them/. Accessed 10/24/2025

Investment Advisory Services offered through Trek Financial LLC., an (SEC) Registered Investment Advisor.

Information presented is for educational purposes only. It should not be considered specific investment advice, does not take into consideration your specific situation, and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any securities or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and are not guaranteed, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. For specific tax advice on any strategy, consult with a qualified tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Trek 25-337

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Q3 2025 Market Commentary

Q3 2025 Market Commentary

Markets usually slow in the third quarter, but this year was different. Stocks kept rising through July, August, and September, with the Dow finishing the quarter at a record high. The Federal Reserve made its first rate cut of the year, oil prices moved lower, and the U.S. dollar steadied after a sharp drop earlier in 2025. Even though the economy showed signs of cooling, markets held up well.1

Markets

Index gains and a subtle rotation

Stocks held firm and broadened their gains, with leadership extending beyond just the biggest names.2

  • Stocks: The S&P 500 and Nasdaq had their strongest third quarter since 2020, helped by a rare positive September. The Dow also set a record high at the end of September.3
  • Sectors: Technology continued to lead, but health care and financials also gained ground late in the quarter.4
  • Small companies: After lagging most of the year, small-cap stocks perked up in September on hopes for more rate cuts.2
  • Currency: The dollar strengthened slightly, which can affect U.S. companies that do business overseas.1
Economy

Cooling Jobs, Mixed Inflation

The economy showed mixed signals: job growth slowed, inflation stayed slightly elevated, and confidence weakened.

  • Jobs: Hiring slowed. July added about 73,000 jobs, August only 22,000, and private measures showed weak September results. Unemployment edged up to around 4.3%.5
  • Inflation: Consumer prices rose between 2.7%–2.9% compared with last year, still above the Fed’s 2% target.5
  • Confidence: Surveys showed Americans feeling less optimistic about jobs and the economy.6
  • Federal Reserve: The Fed cut interest rates by a quarter point in September, saying it remains cautious because inflation is still sticky while hiring weakens.6
Policy

Tariffs and Shutdown

Policy headlines added new uncertainty, from fresh tariffs to another government shutdown.

  • Tariffs: New tariffs announced Sept. 30: The Administration imposed 10% tariffs on lumber/softwood timber and 25% on kitchen cabinets and upholstered furniture, effective Oct. 14.7
  • Budget: Washington debates dragged on, and as of October 1, the government shut down. This paused some official reports like the monthly jobs data, leaving investors to rely on private surveys until the shutdown ends.8
Looking Ahead

What to Keep Watch On

Markets enter the final quarter balancing slower growth, a government shutdown, and continued Fed uncertainty.

  • Government shutdown: Federal funding lapsed on October 1, halting some data releases, including the September jobs report. Until agencies reopen, investors and the Fed are relying on private surveys, which can add volatility.8
  • Market Behavior: Stocks showed resilience early in October as investors anticipated further rate cuts if job growth stays weak. However, limited data could make short-term market reactions less predictable.4
  • The Fed: The Fed’s September rate cut marked the start of its easing cycle, but officials have signaled caution about moving too quickly while inflation remains above 2%. Markets expect another cut later this year, though the timing depends on how incoming data evolves.9
  • Earnings Season: Analysts forecast roughly 8% year-over-year earnings growth for S&P 500 companies, helped by strong technology results. Still, corporate guidance and consumer trends will be key indicators for Q4.10
  • Inflation and growth mix: Goods prices have stabilized, but services and housing costs continue to keep core inflation near 3%. Slower hiring could temper spending, leading to a more gradual path for policy adjustments.7
  • Energy and the Dollar: Oil prices have eased as global supply increased, offering modest relief to inflation. The U.S. dollar strengthened slightly in Q3 but remains lower for the year, which continues to affect multinational earnings.10
Market Environment Heading into Year-End

Market strength in the third quarter reflected a wider range of company and sector participation compared with earlier in the year. Broader gains and steadier volatility coincided with the Fed’s first rate cut of 2025, moderating inflation readings, and early signs of slower economic growth.

As the year concludes, markets remain sensitive to shifts in policy direction, labor data, and inflation trends. With certain economic reports delayed by the government shutdown, short-term reactions may vary as new information becomes available. The fourth quarter could be shaped by how quickly data normalizes and whether earnings and policy developments continue to align with expectations.

 

Sources:

 

Disclosure :

This overview presents a cautious interpretation of current economic indicators and their potential implications for investors. It’s important for investors to remember that market conditions are inherently uncertain and subject to change. The information provided here should not be considered as personalized investment advice or a prediction of future market movements. Investors are encouraged to consult with their financial advisor to discuss their individual financial situation and goals. A comprehensive investment strategy should consider the investor’s risk tolerance, investment time horizon, and any changes in economic conditions.

Investment Advisory Services offered through Trek Financial LLC, an investment adviser registered with the Securities Exchange Commission. Information presented is for educational purposes only. It should not be considered specific investment advice, does not take into consideration your specific situation, and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any securities or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and are not guaranteed, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. For specific tax advice on any strategy, consult with a qualified tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Trek 25-322

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Retirement Planning Strategies Every CPA Should Be Thinking About

Retirement Planning Strategies Every CPA Should Be Thinking About

For many small business clients, retirement planning is more than a compliance matter or employee benefit decision. It is a strategic lever that affects cash flow management, tax efficiency, succession readiness, and the owner’s personal wealth plan. CPAs are often at the center of these conversations, helping clients weigh trade-offs and ensure alignment with their overall financial strategy.

Why Retirement Plan Design Matters More Now

Shifts in tax policy, evolving workforce expectations, and the rise of hybrid plan designs are making retirement planning increasingly nuanced. High-income owners, in particular, are seeking solutions that allow them to accelerate retirement savings while balancing tax deductions and long-term business goals. For CPAs, this means that a general understanding of plan types might not be enough. Clients are looking for professionals who can anticipate complexities, coordinate with plan providers, and structure retirement plans that truly fit the business.

The Defined Benefit Cash Balance Advantage

Cash Balance Plans have grown rapidly in popularity among closely held businesses. While CPAs are generally familiar with the distinction between defined contribution and defined benefit structures, the real opportunity lies in understanding the circumstances where a Cash Balance Plan may be worth a closer look.

Key considerations include:

  • Tax strategy for high-income years: Cash Balance contributions may provide tax advantages, especially valuable when paired with profit fluctuations or liquidity events.
  • Owner succession and exit planning: Plans may help smooth the transition of ownership while maximizing the departing owner’s retirement benefits.
  • Multi-plan coordination: Small businesses who are adopting both 401(k) profit-sharing and Cash Balance structures, may require careful attention to compliance testing and contribution limits.

Navigating ERISA and Compliance Complexities:

ERISA and related federal regulations place significant fiduciary and reporting responsibilities on business owners. For CPAs advising small businesses, this means looking beyond plan selection and into the ongoing operational requirements, including nondiscrimination testing, minimum funding obligations, and participant communication standards. Missteps in these areas have the potential to be costly, making the CPA’s role as a proactive advisor invaluable.

Elevating Your Role as a Trusted Advisor

Business owners are increasingly looking to their CPAs not only for tax compliance, but also for strategic insight. The ability to connect retirement planning with broader business objectives — from reducing taxable income to preparing for ownership transitions — sets a CPA apart in the competitive advisory landscape.

If retirement plan design feels like a space where there’s more to uncover, you are not alone. Many CPAs recognize the opportunity but want a stronger framework for evaluating when to recommend certain plan types, how to collaborate with plan administrators, and how to bring retirement planning into strategic discussions with their business clients.

On October 29th, CPAs will gather for a dedicated Super CE Session focused on strategic retirement planning for small businesses. The session will explore strategies for aligning business structures, compliance obligations, and advanced plan designs, with special emphasis on Defined Benefit Cash Balance Plans. Join SFS and the CPA Alliance for lunch and the opportunity to earn 20 CPE credits.

Learn more and register here: CPA Event Registration – October 29th

*This content is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, tax, or investment advice. Readers should consult their own professional advisors before making any decisions.

 

Disclosures:

Investment Advisory Services offered through Trek Financial LLC, an investment adviser registered with the Securities Exchange Commission. Information presented is for educational purposes only. It should not be considered specific investment advice, does not take into consideration your specific situation, and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any securities or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and are not guaranteed, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. For specific tax advice on any strategy, consult with a qualified tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein.

The information provided here is a general summary of key provisions from the One Big Beautiful Bill and is for informational purposes only. Individual eligibility for tax deductions or exemptions depends on your personal financial situation and may be subject to limitations, income thresholds, or future legislative changes. This summary does not constitute tax or financial advice. Please consult your tax advisor or financial professional to evaluate how these provisions may apply to your specific circumstances.

The potential financial impact of these provisions depends on individual circumstances. No outcome is guaranteed. Tax laws and regulations are subject to change, and provisions of the Big Beautiful Bill may be amended or repealed by future legislation. Information is based on publicly available legislative summaries and independent third-party sources, including Congressional Budget Office estimates. Trek 25-313

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The Big Beautiful Bill and Key Tax Changes and Considerations for Retirees

The Big Beautiful Bill and Key Tax Changes and Considerations for Retirees

Signed into law in 2025, the “One Big Beautiful Bill” (OBBB) introduces a range of changes that could impact retirees. Whether you’re already enjoying retirement or planning for it soon, understanding these legislative changes can help you evaluate your financial plan in light of both potential benefits and considerations. 

In this guide, we’ll walk through the bill’s key points to help you understand how these changes may affect your retirement planning.

What is the "Big Beautiful Bill?"

Signed into law in 2025, the “One Big Beautiful Bill” (OBBB) introduces a range of changes that could impact retirees. Whether you’re already enjoying retirement or planning for it soon, understanding these legislative changes can help you evaluate your financial plan in light of both potential benefits and considerations. 

In this guide, we’ll walk through the bill’s key points to help you understand how these changes may affect your retirement planning.

Table sources: 1, 2, 3, 4

The information provided here is a general summary of key provisions from the One Big Beautiful Bill and is for informational purposes only. Individual eligibility for tax deductions or exemptions depends on your personal financial situation and may be subject to limitations, income thresholds, or future legislative changes. This summary does not constitute tax or financial advice. Please consult your tax advisor or financial professional to evaluate how these provisions may apply to your specific circumstances.

The New “Senior Bonus Deduction”

The Big Beautiful Bill introduces the Senior Bonus Deduction, a special tax provision targeted specifically to retirees.

So, what exactly is it? Starting in 2026, individuals aged 65 and older may be eligible to claim this additional deduction on their federal income taxes. The deduction reduces taxable income by $6,000 for individuals, or $12,000 for married couples filing jointly. This provision applies for tax years 2026, 2027, and 2028.1

Why does this matter? For many retirees, income in retirement may come from a mix of Social Security benefits, retirement account withdrawals, and possibly part-time work. This deduction may help reduce the taxable portion of your retirement income, depending on your specific income sources and tax situation. By lowering taxable income, eligible retirees could owe less in federal taxes during retirement.

No Changes to How Social Security Is Taxed

Despite some expectations, the Big Beautiful Bill does not change how your Social Security benefits are taxed. Up to 85% of your Social Security benefits may still be taxable, depending on your other sources of income.2

Why does this matter? Many retirees hoped for relief from these taxes, but for now, it’s important to be aware of how other income sources can impact the taxation of these benefits.

Estate Planning Just Got More Flexible

If you’re thinking about legacy planning, the bill introduces a key update. Beginning in 2026, the law increases the federal estate, gift, and generation‑skipping transfer tax exemption to $15 million per person, or $30 million for married couples filing jointly (indexed for inflation).3

Why does this matter? A higher exemption amount may offer greater capacity for transferring assets through inheritance, gifts, or trusts without triggering federal estate taxes, depending on their individual estate size and financial situation.

Because the exemption is indexed for inflation and not currently set to expire, there’s no scheduled deadline requiring immediate action. However, like all tax laws, this provision could be changed through future legislation. 4

Potential Risks: Medicaid and Food Assistance

While the Big Beautiful Bill includes several tax benefits, it also reduces funding for key safety-net programs, which could impact access to healthcare and support services for some retirees.

Starting in 2026, the law calls for Medicaid cuts, which the Congressional Budget Office estimates amount to nearly $1 trillion over the next decade.1 These changes include:

  • Imposing work requirements and more frequent eligibility checks, starting for adults aged 19–64, including those approaching retirement age.
  • Reducing federal Medicaid reimbursement to states, which may impact services like long-term care, home health aides, and coverage in rural areas.

Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) Get Trickier—Not Easier

While many retirees were hoping for more flexibility around Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), the Big Beautiful Bill doesn’t deliver on that front. As of now, the RMD start age remains on the gradual path set by the SECURE 2.0 Act, which moves the starting point from age 73 to age 75 over the coming years. No further changes were made in the Big Beautiful Bill.

But what’s raising concern for financial planners is a new provision requiring the U.S. Treasury Department to study the imposition of RMDs on Roth IRAs and large 401(k) balances. While no changes have been made, this study suggests that future policy decisions may consider whether tax-deferred or tax-free accounts, such as Roth IRAs, could be subject to mandatory withdrawals.1

Why Proactive Planning Matters

Many provisions of the Big Beautiful Bill, including the Senior Bonus Deduction, are temporary, scheduled to end in 2028. This makes the years between 2026 and 2028 especially important for planning.

Reviewing your financial situation during this period may help you determine how these temporary provisions affect your personal strategy.

Topics to consider reviewing with a financial or tax professional:

  • Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)
  • Roth IRA conversions
  • Estate plans
  • Overall tax strategy

Although some of these strategies can seem complex, you don’t need to navigate them alone. Working with a qualified financial or tax professional may help you evaluate how the Big Beautiful Bill’s provisions relate to your personal situation. 

Sources

  1. 7 Things Retirees Need To Know About the Big Beautiful Bill Act
  2. https://www.marketwatch.com/story/no-tax-on-social-security-not-quite-what-the-tax-megabill-really-means-for-seniors-df275369
  3. https://www.kiplinger.com/taxes/whats-the-new-estate-tax-exemption
  4. https://natlawreview.com/article/one-big-beautiful-bill-estate-and-gift-tax-exclusion-and-generation-skipping

Disclosures:

Investment Advisory Services offered through Trek Financial LLC, an investment adviser registered with the Securities Exchange Commission. Information presented is for educational purposes only. It should not be considered specific investment advice, does not take into consideration your specific situation, and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any securities or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and are not guaranteed, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. For specific tax advice on any strategy, consult with a qualified tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein.

The information provided here is a general summary of key provisions from the One Big Beautiful Bill and is for informational purposes only. Individual eligibility for tax deductions or exemptions depends on your personal financial situation and may be subject to limitations, income thresholds, or future legislative changes. This summary does not constitute tax or financial advice. Please consult your tax advisor or financial professional to evaluate how these provisions may apply to your specific circumstances.

The potential financial impact of these provisions depends on individual circumstances. No outcome is guaranteed. Tax laws and regulations are subject to change, and provisions of the Big Beautiful Bill may be amended or repealed by future legislation. Information is based on publicly available legislative summaries and independent third-party sources, including Congressional Budget Office estimates. Trek 25-265

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Legacy in Action: Leave a Mark That Lasts

Legacy in Action: Leave a Mark That Lasts

A legacy is often thought of as something financial—a nest egg or an inheritance passed on to future generations. While financial assets are one part of a legacy, they don’t encompass the full meaning. A legacy can take many forms, each representing a different facet of how a person’s life and values continue to influence others.

A legacy is more than just wealth.

Financial Legacy: This is the most familiar type, involving wealth, property, or financial security passed to loved ones. It may include trust funds, charitable donations, or an inheritance that provides for future generations.

Institutional Legacy: For some, leaving a legacy means contributing to institutions, such as starting a foundation, building a company, or helping to create an enduring community organization. This can also extend to supporting a cause or charity that aligns with your values, ensuring its continuation for years to come.

Instructional Legacy: This type of legacy focuses on imparting knowledge and wisdom. It could involve mentoring others, writing a book, teaching life skills, or passing on professional expertise. Instructional legacies can shape the mindset and capabilities of the next generation, leaving an intellectual and emotional inheritance.

Values and Life Lessons: For many, the most significant legacy is the one passed through stories, values, and lessons learned. You can leave a legacy by living authentically according to your beliefs, showing kindness, empathy, and teaching the importance of these traits. This kind of legacy is often conveyed through daily interactions and the principles you impart to your family, friends, and community.

Wish Fulfillment: Another form of legacy can be about helping others fulfill their dreams or realize their potential. This can mean creating opportunities for others through scholarships, support systems, or mentorship, allowing individuals to pursue goals they might not have otherwise achieved.

Creating Your Legacy: A Framework

Leaving a meaningful legacy doesn’t happen overnight. It requires thought, strategy, and effort to ensure that what you leave behind continues to have a lasting impact. Here’s a framework to help you shape the legacy you wish to leave:

  1. Create Your Vision: Before you begin, it’s essential to have a clear vision of the legacy you want to create. Start by reflecting on what you value and care about most. Consider the passions that drive you, the causes that inspire you, and the unique skills or experiences you bring to the table. It can be helpful to involve trusted friends and family in these reflections—they may offer perspectives you hadn’t considered or recognize strengths you overlook in yourself.

  2. Define Your Legacy: Once you’ve considered what matters to you, think about the specific legacy you wish to leave. Is it financial? Do you want to ensure your family’s financial security or support charitable causes you care about? Or is it about leaving behind your knowledge, values, or perhaps even creating an organization that will continue your work? Your legacy can be as broad or specific as you choose, and it may evolve over time as your values and priorities shift.

  3. Develop a Strategy: A vision without a plan may never come to fruition. Developing a clear strategy is essential to bring your legacy to life. If your legacy is financial, this might include setting up trusts, endowments, or charitable donations. For an instructional or value-based legacy, this could mean writing down life lessons, setting aside time for mentorship, or recording personal stories to share with future generations. Establish timelines, resources, and actionable steps to keep you on track.

  4. Live Your Legacy: Legacy isn’t just about what happens after you’re gone. It’s the impact you make on others while you’re alive that often carries the most weight. By living your values every day—with your family, at work, and in your community—you are already shaping the legacy that others will carry forward. Your actions, words, and how you treat others are all part of the legacy you leave behind. Be intentional about making a positive difference in the lives you touch now, and the effects of that will naturally extend into the future.

“Carve your name on hearts, not tombstones. A legacy is etched into the minds of others and the stories they share about you.”


Shannon L. Alder

 

Investment Advisory Services offered through Trek Financial LLC., an (SEC) Registered Investment Advisor.

Information presented is for educational purposes only. It should not be considered specific investment advice, does not take into consideration your specific situation, and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any securities or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and are not guaranteed, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. For specific tax advice on any strategy, consult with a qualified tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Trek 24-327

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Prioritizing Financial Wellness in 2025

Prioritizing Financial Wellness in 2025

In today’s dynamic economic landscape, achieving financial wellness requires a proactive approach to personal finance management. Recent studies reveal that over half of Americans feel “financially frozen,” overwhelmed by financial decisions and unsure of the steps to take.1

To navigate these challenges and enhance your financial well-being, consider implementing the following strategies:​

Set Clear Financial Goals

One of the most important steps in financial wellness is setting goals that give your money a purpose. Without direction, it could be easy to fall into the trap of simply reacting to expenses, rather than proactively shaping your future.

Start by identifying what you want to achieve financially—this might include paying off debt, saving for a home, building an emergency fund, or planning for retirement. Break those down into short-term (within 1 year), mid-term (1–5 years), and long-term (5+ years) goals.

Using the SMART framework—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound—can turn vague ambitions into actionable targets. For example, instead of saying “I want to save money,” try “I will save $5,000 for a home down payment over the next 12 months by setting aside $420 each month.”

Clear goals give you focus and motivation, and they also make it easier to track progress and celebrate milestones along the way.

Create and Stick to a Realistic Budget

Budgeting isn’t about restricting yourself. Instead, it’s about understanding where your money is going and making sure it’s aligned with what matters most to you.

Start by tracking all sources of income and listing your regular expenses. These can be divided into:

  • Fixed expenses (rent, loan payments, insurance)

  • Variable expenses (groceries, gas, entertainment)

  • Discretionary spending (dining out, subscriptions, hobbies)

A helpful starting point is the 50/30/20 rule:

  • 50% of your income goes to needs

  • 30% goes to wants

  • 20% goes to savings and debt repayment

Use budgeting tools like YNAB (You Need a Budget), Mint, or Monarch Money to make this process easier and more visual. These platforms allow you to track your spending, categorize expenses, and set spending limits—all in one place.

The key is consistency. Check in on your budget regularly and make small adjustments as your life and income change.

Build an Emergency Fund

Life is unpredictable. From a sudden car repair to a medical bill or job loss, unexpected expenses may derail even the most carefully planned finances. That’s where an emergency fund comes in—it could act as your financial buffer.

Start with a goal of $500 to $1,000, then work up to saving 3–6 months’ worth of essential expenses (housing, utilities, food, insurance). Keep this money in a high-yield savings account where it’s separate from your regular spending but still accessible when needed.

Automating your savings, by setting up a recurring transfer from checking to savings, may make it easier to build your fund over time without having to think about it. 

Leverage Digital Financial Tools

From budgeting and savings apps to investment platforms and credit monitoring, there are more resources than ever to help you stay in control.

Popular tools include:

  • Budgeting: Mint, YNAB, Monarch Money

  • Automatic savings: Acorns, Digit

  • Credit monitoring: Credit Karma, Experian

These platforms allow you to track spending, automate savings, and even get personalized insights into your financial behavior. The key is finding tools that work for you—and using them regularly to stay organized and accountable.

Improve Your Financial Literacy

Financial literacy is about more than just numbers. It’s about understanding how financial decisions impact your life both now and in the future. Learning the basics may help you feel more confident in conversations about money and more prepared to make informed decisions alongside a trusted professional.

Start by focusing on foundational topics such as:

  • How budgeting and saving work together

  • Understanding credit scores and reports

  • The importance of insurance and risk protection

  • Tax basics and how they affect your paycheck

  • How your employee benefits fit into your bigger financial picture

When you understand the basics, you’re better equipped to ask the right questions and partner more effectively with a financial professional who can guide you toward your goals.

Seek Professional Financial Advice

While digital tools and self-education are incredibly helpful, there’s real value in having a human guide—someone who understands your unique situation and can provide personalized strategies.

A certified financial planner (CFP®) can help with:

  • Retirement planning

  • Investment strategies

  • Tax-efficient savings

  • Business planning

  • Navigating life transitions like marriage, parenthood, or divorce

Even a single session may provide clarity, identify blind spots, and set you on the right path.

Financial wellness is a journey, not a destination. It doesn’t require perfection, just progress. Whether you’re paying off debt, learning to budget, or investing for the first time, each step you take brings you closer to a more confident future.

  1. nypost.com, 2025. https://nypost.com/2025/03/18/business/why-over-half-of-americans-feel-financially-frozen-study/.

Investment Advisory Services offered through Trek Financial LLC., an (SEC) Registered Investment Advisor.

Information presented is for educational purposes only. It should not be considered specific investment advice, does not take into consideration your specific situation, and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any securities or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and are not guaranteed, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. For specific tax advice on any strategy, consult with a qualified tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Trek 25-181