Blog
Gen X Retirement Gap: How the Shift Away From Pensions Is Changing Retirement Preparedness
Generation X—generally defined as those born between 1965 and 1980—is moving into the later stages of its working years. Many individuals in this group are now between their mid-40s and early 60s, a period when retirement planning...
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From Saving to Spending: Structuring Retirement Income with an Asset-Cycle Approach
At some point in the retirement planning conversation, a shift tends to occur.Instead of asking questions like “How much should I be saving?” or “Is my portfolio growing enough?” the focus often turns to something different:“How will...
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Turning Your Savings Into Income in Retirement
You spent decades building wealth. Now it's time to consider how that wealth may work for you — thoughtfully, tax-consciously, and in a way that fits your life.There's a moment many people experience somewhere between their last day of...
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Celebrating Women Who Shape Finance — Happy International Women's Day!
As we celebrate International Women's Day this March, it's the perfect moment to honor something that doesn't always make the headlines but changes lives every single day: financial education for women.The financial world has...
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Taxes, Timing, and Strategy: Where Financial Planning Makes a Difference
Tax season has a way of bringing financial matters into focus. Sorting through income documents, investment statements, and deductions offers a natural moment to step back and evaluate the bigger picture. But for many people, that...
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Tax Season and Legacy Planning: A Coordinated Approach
As a new year begins, tax preparation becomes a priority for many households. When legacy planning and tax planning are reviewed together, families may have an opportunity to evaluate decisions about wealth transfer, gifting, and...
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Legacy Planning: More Than Documents—It's About the People You Love
Legacy planning is about far more than documents, account titles, or legal terminology. At its core, legacy planning is deeply personal. It reflects your values, your relationships, and the people you want to protect—both now and in...
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Budgeting and Planning for 2026: Navigating Your Financial Mountain
As we step into 2026, it’s a good time to review your financial situation and consider your plans for the year ahead. Whether you’re approaching retirement or already living it, thoughtful planning and budgeting may help ensure your...
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Don't Retire FROM Something—Retire TO Something
Too many people trudge through their final working years with the same weary question: "When can I finally be done?" They're counting down to a finish line, but they haven't thought about what's on the other side. Here's what we've...
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Start 2026 with a Thoughtful Budget
As we step into 2026, it's a perfect time to pause, reflect, and plan—not just for numbers in a spreadsheet, but for the life you want to live. At Cornerstone Financial Group, we've spent decades working with clients on financial...
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3 Simple Steps to Protect Your Digital Life
Learn three essential steps to protect your digital life: keep technology updated (Windows 10 support ended Oct 2025), manage subscriptions and use password managers, and stay alert to phishing scams.
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Your Game Plan: Building Your Retirement Strategy
Retirement planning is like building a football team—different positions working together toward a common goal. Explore how Social Security, 401(k)s, IRAs, and other strategies may fit into your overall game plan for retirement.
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Medicare Annual Enrollment Period Ending Soon
For the more than 66 million Americans covered by Medicare, the Annual Enrollment Period is quickly coming to a close. With the enrollment window ending on December 7, 2025, now is the time to finalize any changes to your health...
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A Time for Reflection: Exploring Comprehensive Retirement Planning This Thanksgiving
Safe travels as we head into Thanksgiving week! This time of year naturally draws our attention to what matters most—family, connection, and the legacy we're building for those we love. It's an opportunity to reflect not just on...
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Year-End Retirement Account Deadlines: Your Questions Answered
As we approach the end of 2025, many clients have questions about important deadlines that may affect their retirement accounts and tax planning. Here are answers to the most common questions we're receiving. What is the IRS deadline...
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The Phantom Annuity - CFG Halloween's Story
Blair Luna, 68, had just turned off her bedside lamp when her phone shattered the darkness at 11:47 PM. "Mrs. Luna? This is Christian Reynolds from ShadowGuard Retirement Solutions. I apologize for the late hour, but I'm calling about...
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Why Political Convictions Make Poor Investment Strategies
I've been in this business long enough to see the same mistakes repeated over and over. And one of the most costly? Letting politics drive your portfolio. There's a quote I love that cuts right to the heart of it: "Nobody wins when...
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National Pasta Day: Crafting A Recipe for Retirement
Just like every pasta needs the right ingredients, a great retirement plan blends key elements—Wealth, Risk, Tax Efficient, Legacy, Cash, Medicare, and Value-Added Services—into one recipe for your financial future.
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Understanding IRMAA: What Counts Toward Your Income (and What Doesn’t)
When you reach retirement, Medicare becomes one of the most important parts of your financial picture. While most people expect to pay their standard Medicare Part B and Part D premiums, many are caught off guard by something called...
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October is Financial Literacy Month: Building Stronger Foundations with CFG
At Cornerstone Financial Group (CFG), we know that financial literacy is the cornerstone of building confidence with your money. That’s why October, Financial Literacy Month, is so important—it’s a chance to focus on learning the...
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Medicare Annual Enrollment Period Information
For the more than 66 million Americans covered by Medicare, the annual Open Enrollment period may be an important opportunity to review your health coverage and consider whether it meets your needs for the coming year. Open Enrollment...
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When You Need Us Most: Navigating Financial Matters After Losing a Loved One
Losing a loved one brings immense grief, but it also triggers a complex web of financial and legal responsibilities that can feel overwhelming during an already difficult time. We want you to know that we're here to support you through...
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Protecting Your Home in a Trust: What You Need to Know About Insurance Coverage
When it comes to legacy planning, protecting your home and other assets is often a top priority. For many families, placing a home in a trust can be a strategic way to manage their estate, avoid probate, and provide security for their...
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Retirement Planning: Like Brewing A Cup of Coffee
For many people, coffee is more than a drink—it’s a ritual. Some take it black, some add cream and sugar, and others prefer a carefully crafted latte. The variety is part of what makes it enjoyable. Retirement planning works in a...
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Protect Yourself from Call and Text Message Scams: A Complete Guide
Protect Yourself from Call and Text Message Scams: A Complete Guide In today's digital world, scam calls and text messages have become increasingly sophisticated and frequent. Every day, millions of people receive fraudulent messages...
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The Long-Term Care Reality Check: A Story Every Pre-Retiree Needs to Hear
The Long-Term Care Reality Check: A Story Every Pre-Retiree Needs to Hear "We never saw it coming. One day Mom was gardening and hosting Sunday dinners, and six months later we were scrambling to find $8,000 a month for her care." This...
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Why Having a Savings Account Pre and Post Retirement Is So Important
Why Having a Savings Account Pre and Post Retirement Is So Important: Your Financial Safety Net for Life When most people think about retirement planning, they focus on 401(k)s, IRAs, and investment portfolios. While these are...
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Navigating Retirement Savings: A Guide to Pensions, 401(k)s, and IRAs
As someone who works extensively in retirement planning, I frequently encounter clients who find themselves confused by the various retirement savings vehicles available today. From recent graduates to those nearing retirement,...
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Where Does Your Money Actually Go? The Power of Budget Tracking in Your Prime Years
Here's an interesting financial reality: nearly 40% of Americans report they would need to borrow money to cover a $400 emergency expense. At the same time, many people—especially those in their 50s and beyond—find themselves wondering...
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Building Bridges, Not Silos: How Families May Help Each Other Grow Generational Wealth
Learn how families can work together to build and preserve generational wealth through education, communication, and planning. Discover why 70% of wealthy families lose their wealth by the second generation.
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Naming a Trust as Your IRA Beneficiary: Key Considerations
When planning your estate, one of the most important decisions you'll make is choosing beneficiaries for your retirement accounts. While naming individuals directly as IRA beneficiaries is often the simplest approach, there are...
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A Recipe for Retirement: Your Custom Financial Plan Awaits
Retirement planning is like baking—it needs the right ingredients. Our QUESTPOINT formula creates a custom plan mixing income, protection, and dreams.
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Celebrating Independence—In Life, Liberty, and Retirement Planning
Celebrating July 4th reminds us how valuable independence is—especially financial independence. At Cornerstone, we help you explore strategies that support your goals, values, and lifestyle.
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Your Retirement Reality Check: How Are You Really Living Your Golden Years?
Quarterly retirement check-ins help you celebrate what's working and discover new possibilities. From daily fulfillment to financial confidence, regular self-reflection ensures your golden years stay golden.
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Guiding Your Financial Journey—For Individuals and Businesses
Are you taking full advantage of all we offer? From retirement planning to business strategies, we’re here to support your full financial picture. Let’s reconnect and review your current plan.
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Understanding Income Distribution in Retirement: Why It Matters
When people think about retirement planning, the focus is often on accumulation—building up savings through 401(k)s, IRAs, pensions, and other investment vehicles. But saving is only half the picture. Equally important is knowing how...
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Information On How Your Social Security Benefits Are Calculated
For many retirees, Social Security is a key part of the income equation. Yet understanding how benefits are calculated—and how decisions around when to claim can impact your retirement—can feel complex. At Cornerstone Financial Group,...
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Planning for Long-Term Care: What You Need to Know—and How to Prepare Financially
As we age, the likelihood of needing some form of long-term care increases. Whether it’s occasional help at home or full-time skilled nursing care, understanding the potential costs—and preparing for them financially—is essential for...
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Market Crashes Over the Last 100 Years: What We've Learned and How to Stay Prepared
Market Crashes Over the Last 100 Years: What We’ve Learned and How to Stay Prepared The stock market is a dynamic and sometimes unpredictable environment. Over the past 100 years, it has experienced several significant downturns—sharp,...
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AI-Powered Online Shopping Scams Are on the Rise—Here's How to Stay Safe
The New Era of Sophisticated Scams Think you can spot a scam? With today's AI technology, it's becoming increasingly difficult—even for savvy consumers. Online shopping scams have evolved dramatically in recent years. Modern fraudsters...
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Navigating Market Trends with Confidence: A Cornerstone Financial Group Perspective
Understanding market trends helps investors navigate economic shifts. Key 2025 trends include interest rate changes, tech growth, and global recovery.
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Don't Miss These Valuable Medicare Benefits: Talk to Our Licensed Agent Today!
Medicare offers free benefits including vaccinations, cancer screenings, diabetes testing, mental health support, and nutritional therapy. Contact Danielle McKenna (CA #0D97816, NV #3654433) today.
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Are You Making the Most of Super Catch-Up Contributions?
The SECURE Act 2.0 boosts retirement savings for those 50+ with enhanced catch-up contributions, including a new "super catch-up" for ages 60-63 starting in 2025. Plan ahead to maximize these opportunities!
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The QuestPoint FORMula: Navigating Life's Critical Financial Events
Discover how Cornerstone Financial Group's QuestPoint FORMula creates dynamic financial plans that adapt to life's critical events, ensuring your retirement stays on track.
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Risk Management: The Unsung Hero of a Resilient Retirement Plan
At Cornerstone Financial Group, we believe that retirement is a journey, not a destination. It’s about crafting a strategy that not only works for today but stands the test of time—helping you achieve lasting financial peace. That’s...
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Your Guide to Financial Planning: Building a Secure Financial Future
Take control of your finances by tracking income, expenses, and goals. Create a strategic plan to build wealth, manage debt, and secure your financial future. Contact Us Today!
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Beyond the Basics: The Art of Retirement Income Planning
Discover essential retirement income planning strategies from a financial advisor specializing in distribution planning. Learn about tax efficiency, healthcare costs, Social Security optimization and creating sustainable retirement income.
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Understanding Retirement Accounts: IRAs, 401(k)s, and Pensions
Compare IRAs, 401(k)s & pensions: Pensions offer guaranteed employer-funded benefits; 401(k)s give employee control with tax advantages; IRAs provide individual flexibility with diverse investment options.
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Navigating Your Financial Journey: Why Course Corrections Matter
Sailing off course by 1° can make you miss Hawaii by 500+ miles. Similarly, small errors in retirement planning compound over time. A financial advisor helps keep you on course.
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Politics and Your Portfolio
Elections cause short-term swings, but markets grow long-term. Stay diversified and focus on fundamentals.
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Leveraging Professional Advice: The Value of a Financial Advisor in Retirement Planning
Reach out to us for a customized retirement plan. We’ll provide professional advice and the discipline needed to stay on track, even in uncertain times, with the goal of ensuring you retire with confidence.
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Income Distribution in Retirement: How to Build a Reliable Paycheck
Learn how to build a reliable retirement paycheck with Social Security, pensions, annuities, and smart withdrawals. Work towards a secure future with steady income! Reach out to Cornerstone Financial Today!
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Love and Retirement: Building a Financial Future Together
Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to discuss retirement planning with your partner. Let’s help you build a solid income distribution plan and work towards a secure future together. Reach out today to get started!
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The Importance of Maintaining a Cash Reserve for Retirement Security
Retirees need 12-24 months of cash for stability and to avoid selling investments in downturns. Contact us to optimize your retirement plan.
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Trimming the Sails: Navigating a Debt-Free Retirement Journey
Set sail for a debt-free retirement! 🌊 Plan, budget, and trim unnecessary expenses to lighten your financial load. Navigate your journey with purpose, and enjoy smooth sailing towards a secure retirement. ⛵
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Navigating 2025: What Retirees Need to Know About Social Security and Medicare Changes
Key updates for retirees in 2025 Social Security COLA increase, higher Medicare Part B premiums, and updated earnings limits and taxable caps. Stay informed to maximize your benefits and adjust your retirement plans effectively.
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Can you climb the mountain of your future?
Retirement isn't just about reaching the peak, it's about the descent. Are you prepared for the risks of post-retirement? Learn how to potentially protect your assets and create sustainable income. Complimentary consultation available.
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Social Security Says 2.5% COLA in 2025
Social Security beneficiaries will see a 2.5% increase in their benefit payments in 2025, according to the Social Security Administration. The annual cost of living (COLA) adjustment will affect more than 72.5 million Social Security...
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Turn Your RMDs into Charitable Donations
If you dream of your financial legacy leaving a lasting impact on the world, there's a way you can make a difference. You can use your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) to make charitable donations, a strategy that could benefit...
Read MoreHow Much Do I Need to Retire?
A few years ago, ads from financial services companies asked, “What’s your number?” The “number” represented the amount of money you needed to retire comfortably. There are, of course, various approaches to estimating your retirement...
Read MoreWe’re living longer. Are we investing wiser?
As life expectancy continues to rise, we're all living longer than ever before. But are we investing wisely enough to ensure a comfortable and secure retirement? The Retirement Reality A significant portion of the population is...
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Understanding Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs)
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 favorite causes and manage your...
Read MoreOverspending in Retirement: A Common Pitfall and How to Avoid It
Retirement is a time to relax, enjoy life, and pursue your passions. However, overspending can quickly erode your hard-earned savings and lead to financial stress. In this blog post, we'll discuss the common causes of overspending in...
Read MoreMedicare Open Enrollment: Your Chance to Review and Update Your Plan
It's that time of year again! Medicare Open Enrollment is October 15th to December 7th, providing you with the opportunity to review your current Medicare plan and make any necessary changes. Whether you're satisfied with your current...
Read MoreSeptember is Life Insurance Awareness Month
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 Insurance Awareness Month. Life...
Read MorePreparing for Higher Education
As Summer draws to a close and pool noodles everywhere breathe a sigh of relief, it's time to consider one of the most exciting milestones for many families: Attending Higher Education. Let's explore how parents (or grandparents) can...
Read MoreThe Importance of Long-Term Care Planning: Preparing For the Unexpected
As you approach retirement, one of the most important financial decisions you'll face is how to plan for long-term care. The sad reality is that many people don't fully understand the potential costs and risks associated with long-term...
Read MoreThe Psychology of Money in Retirement: Mastering Your Emotions
Retirement is often painted as a golden era of relaxation and freedom. While it can certainly be that, it's also a significant financial transition. And as with any major life change, emotions play a pivotal role in how we navigate it....
Read MoreIs Social Security Going to Run Out in Your Lifetime?
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, the headline’s tone is very...
Read MoreRisks to Writing Your Own Will
Tempting as it may be to save a few bucks by drafting your own will, the potential pitfalls can far outweigh the financial benefits. While it's true that you can technically write your own will, overlooking crucial details can lead to...
Read MoreYour 401(k): A Secret Weapon for Your Future
Let's talk about money, specifically, your money. More importantly, let's talk about growing your money. If you're in your 20s, retirement might feel like a distant echo, but trust us, it's closer than you think. Enter the 401(k): your...
Read MoreLife Insurance: More Than Just a Safety Net
Life insurance often gets a reputation as a necessary evil, something we purchase out of obligation rather than desire. While it undoubtedly serves as a crucial financial safety net for families, it's also a powerful tool for estate...
Read MoreRunning Out of Money in Retirement: Should You be Worried?
This fear is perfectly normal. The shift from a steady paycheck to self-directed income in retirement can be unsettling. But fear not! With careful planning and the right knowledge, you can build towards a secure and fulfilling retirement.
Read MorePlan for Tomorrow, Today: Why You Need an Estate Plan
Safeguard your legacy and ensure your wishes are carried out with a comprehensive estate plan. By creating a plan, you can avoid the delays and costs associated with probate court, protecting your loved ones during a difficult time.
Read MoreHomeownership in Retirement: Asset or Anchor?
June is National Homeownership Month, making it a great time to reflect on your biggest asset: your home. For pre-retirees and retirees, your home plays a critical role in your financial picture. But is it always an advantage? Let's...
Read MoreRetirement on a Budget: Tips for Living Frugally and Comfortably
Retirement: a time to relax, travel, and finally pursue your passions. But for many, the excitement is tinged with worry - can I afford the lifestyle I dream of? The good news? A fulfilling retirement is absolutely possible, even on a...
Read MoreTraditional vs. Roth IRA in 2024: Picking the Right Retirement Account
Saving for retirement is crucial, but with two main IRA options - Traditional and Roth - choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Let's break down the tax implications of each IRA and the factors to consider for a smart decision...
Read MoreThe Emotional Rollercoaster of Retirement: How to Manage Your Money and Your Mind
Retirement: a golden age of travel, leisure, and finally doing what you love! But the reality for many retirees isn't quite so picture-perfect. While the freedom of retirement is undeniable, it's also a major life transition with a...
Read MoreMaximizing Your Nest Egg: Understanding Spousal Benefits for Social Security
Social Security is a vital source of income for many retirees. But did you know that spouses can also benefit from a worker's Social Security record? Spousal benefits can provide a significant financial boost and play a key role in...
Read MoreEarly Retirement: Freedom or Financial Freefall?
The dream of escaping the 9-to-5 grind and living life on your own terms is powerful. Early retirement seems like the ultimate ticket to freedom. But before you pack up your cubicle and book that around-the-world trip, there are some...
Read MoreWorking Past 65? Navigating Medicare Before Retirement
Many people are choosing to extend their careers past the traditional retirement age of 65. If that's you, you might be wondering how Medicare fits into your healthcare picture. Here's what you need to know about Medicare and working...
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April Is Financial Literacy Month
Many young adults are not only wayward financially, but also pessimistic about ever becoming wealthy. Could it be that our children just aren't getting the financial education they need? April marks the start of Financial Literacy...
Read More2024 IRA Contribution Limits: How Much Can You Save and When?
Are you looking to boost your retirement savings in 2024? Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) offer a tax-advantaged way to save for your future. This post will guide you through the 2024 IRA contribution limits and deadlines,...
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Protecting Your Digital World: A Simple Guide to Cybersecurity
Stay safe online with 10 cybersecurity basics: Strong Passwords, Phishing Awareness, Device Updates, Antivirus, Wi-Fi Security, Link Caution, Social Media Privacy, 2FA, Account Monitoring, Protect Personal Info. Your digital safety matters!
Read MoreStart the conversation with those you care for!
We understand how complicated financial planning can be. We also respect there is often an additional layer of complication when we approach a client about whether they have involved their children or loved ones with respect to...
Read MoreSECURE Act 2.0: An Overview
We have summarized the SECURE Act 2.0 legislative changes, so you can see what changes affect your specific retirement journey!
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What does your W.E.A.L.T.H. look like?
What does your W.E.A.L.T.H. look like?Our goal is to consistently elevate the experience we provide to our clients and a big part of that effort is staying current in understanding how you describe "wealth" or "financial independence"...
Read MoreWhat you need to know about 2022 IRA Contributions
What you need to know about IRA Contributions Each individual who is eligible, can contribute a limit of $6,000.00 for the year 2022 If eligible and over the age of 50, you can contribute a “catch up” contribution limit of...
Read MoreCybersecurity - Your Account Security with CFG
At Cornerstone Financial Group, we make data integrity and data security a top priority. As such, we have taken many steps to ensure your data is protected from attack and that it is never sold or re-distributed. Local Security All...
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