Mary's Money Guide Articles

Year End Tax Tips

As we approach the end of the year, here are a few year-end tax tips for savvy investors who want to pay Uncle Sam less come April. Read More...


Your Money Philosophy

All my financial advisor wants to do is talk about some product they can sell me. How do I actually get unbiased strategies and advice? I wonder how much commission they are making off of me? Our advisor is my husband's golfing buddy, but I always feel talked down to - what can I do instead? Have you found yourself asking these questions? Read More...


Feeling Ripped Off?

All my financial advisor wants to do is talk about some product they can sell me. How do I actually get unbiased strategies and advice? I wonder how much commission they are making off of me? Our advisor is my husband's golfing buddy, but I always feel talked down to - what can I do instead? Have you found yourself asking these questions? Read More...


A New Chapter Has Begun

Isn’t it ironic the only thing in life that stays the same, is that change is constantly occurring? A graduation, a new baby, a different job, an unexpected divorce, moving to a new area, losing a loved one, and choosing to retire are just some of the many transitions that we experience. Sometimes the new chapter in our life brings sadness, and sometimes it brings joy. Most transitions have some level of financial impact. Here are a few tips to strategically navigate your finances through any transition. Read More...


Smoothing Out The Ride

Investing in the stock market can be a bumpy ride. Some days markets go up, and other days markets go down. This can be scary for some, and exciting for others. This up and down roller coaster-like swing is also known as market volatility. Here are a few tips to smooth out your volatility and help you enjoy the ride. Read More...


401(k) Strategies

When you envision retirement, you probably see yourself living comfortably and doing what makes you happy. Your dreams could be as lofty as traveling the world or as simple as spending more time with friends and family. Everyone’s vision is unique. Fortunately, whatever your dream, your retirement accounts can help you make it a reality. Here are some tips to take full advantage of the benefits in your 401(k) plan. Read More...


Assisting Your Aging Parents

Caring for an aging parent can present both loving opportunities and difficult challenges –especially when crisis hits. You may be suddenly faced with a myriad of new responsibilities. You might be the only person who steps in to help, or you may be the lynchpin in a network of family members willing to contribute. Either way, here are five strategic tips to help you manage your aging parent’s finances. Read More...


5 Key Questions For Retirement Readiness

Preparing for retirement is exciting, but can also bring feelings of fearfulness as you are moving into new and uncharted territory. There are no do-overs in retirement, so it is important to be as educated and ready as possible before you trigger that special event. Here are 5 key retirement questions to ask yourself. Read More...


When You Lose A Spouse

Losing your spouse is an emotional blow. Unfortunately, life stops for no-one, and so amidst your pain, you must find a way to carry on day by day. Whether your spouse has been living with a terminal illness, or has passed suddenly, it is still overwhelming to make decisions on your own that you used to make together. Here are 5 tips to help guide you through this difficult phase. Read More...


Top 5 Divorce Tips

Ending a marriage can be one of the most emotional and financially impactful decisions a person ever makes. If you have made the difficult decision to go down the path of divorce, here are some very important tips you should know to make it a smoother journey. Read More...