Insights

A graphic design for "Executive Decisions: A Podcast for Business Leaders." The background features abstract green and white arrow designs. Text in the bottom left reads, "EP1 Sharon Mortensen.

Executive Decisions – Making The Tough Decisions For Your Business with Sharon Mortensen (podcast)

Sharon Mortensen is the President and CEO of Midland Area Community Foundation, an organization that promotes philanthropic leadership to help the local community through scholarships, charity funding, and donations to Midland area nonprofits every year. As a leader, Sharon is responsible for overseeing all operations, from proposal to execution. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Communications from Defiance College and a Master’s in Counseling from the University of Texas. Sharon joins me today to discuss

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A close-up image shows a glass jar labeled "Savings" filled with coins. Adjacent to the jar is a folder partially labeled "Taxes" in bold black letters. The scene is set on a white background with a leather item partially visible in the foreground.

Tax Saving Strategies While Approaching Retirement

Taxes are difficult to avoid, but there are many tax saving strategies that can help you minimize your lifetime tax bill. Do you know what tax savings you’ll use when you retire? So much of retirement planning is focused on accumulating the largest nest egg possible. However, the income that your nest egg will generate can evaporate quickly if your tax bills are higher than they need to be. As Judge Learned Hand once said,

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Two paper cutouts of human figures holding hands are placed over U.S. dollar bills. The figures, representing people, are positioned on a wooden surface partially covered by the money.

The new Child Tax Credit. What is it all about?

The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021 expanded the Child Tax Credit and introduced some unique changes.  You likely have heard about this lately in the news or from your accountant. This outline provides direct links to IRS information, a breakdown of and how it may affect you. Does the Child Tax Credit change give me more money? One key feature of the ARPA is the credit amounts have increased for the 2021 tax

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A blue puzzle piece with "Life insurance" written on it is about to be placed into a white puzzle, signifying the importance of life insurance as an integral part of financial planning. The piece fits perfectly, underscoring how life insurance completes the overall financial picture.

What Is Life Insurance, and Do You Need It?

Life insurance is a sensitive topic. Nobody likes to sit down to discuss their mortality, but it is a conversation every responsible person should have. Life insurance can provide financial protection in the event a family member passes. There are many types of life insurance that could be considered for various stage of life, from birth to death. Who Needs Life Insurance? Life insurance can be a vital piece of a solid financial plan, particularly

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A blue-toned image featuring the words "CARES ACT" in bold white letters, centered on top of a faded depiction of the U.S. Capitol dome, framed by white borders, highlighting support for business owners.

The CARES Act for Business Owners (webinar)

Listen to gain answers and guidance on the CARES Act, Paycheck Protection Program, and Families First Coronavirus Response Act. Panelists: Seth Whicker, CFP®, MS, Principal and Senior Financial Advisor at SYM Financial Advisors Contact: swhicker@sym.com (260) 387-6822 Tom Ackmann, Principal and Senior Retirement Plan Advisor at SYM Financial Advisors Contact: tackmann@sym.com  (260) 387-6822 Randy Brinneman, Senior Vice President at Ossian State Bank Contact: rbrinneman@ossianstatebank.com (260) 622-4141

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A white piggy bank wearing a black graduation cap with a yellow tassel, symbolizing 529 Savings Plans. A dollar bill is sticking out from the slot on its back, set against a blue background.

The Benefits of 529 Savings Plans

Education costs continue to rise and the task of saving for college or trade school becomes more daunting each year. Fortunately, there is a village of supporters who want to help a child save for their education, including the ancillary expenses required to have a full and enriching educational experience. One of the most efficient and effective ways to accomplish this is by using 529 Savings Plans. 529 Savings Plans 529 Savings Plans are education

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