Article

Are You on Firm Financial Footing, "Personally" Speaking?

Are You on Firm Financial Footing, “Personally” Speaking?

Your personal finances matter, even though you may be busily focused on your business plan.  Juggling the responsibilities of your business and your personal affairs is a challenging task. However, it’s important to take some time out of your busy schedule to review your personal plan to help keep your personal finances on firm ground. Here are some suggestions that may help.

January 11, 2022
Are You on Firm Financial Footing, “Personally” Speaking?
Important Disclosure: Content on our website and in our newsletters is for informational purposes only. The information provided may (or may not) directly apply to your situation. We recommend that readers work directly with a professional advisor when making decisions in the context of their specific situation.

As a busy executive or business owner, your personal financial and estate planning needs may be different from other individuals. Your current compensation package probably contains a variety of benefits, some of which may not be portable. Some benefits may also place restrictions on present enjoyment, while other benefits may become available only upon retirement or death.

Business Owners Have Personal Finances Too

Because much of your estate may be tied up in the stock of your company, you may have liquidity problems. In addition to business concerns, personal finance requires careful planning. You may need to plan for children who need or will need educating, often in private schools, long before applications are made to expensive colleges and universities. Or, you may already have a child in college or graduate school.

Juggling the responsibilities of your business and your personal affairs is a challenging task. However, it’s important to take some time out of your busy schedule to review your personal financial plan. Here are a few simple suggestions to help you keep your personal finances on firm ground:

Pay Yourself First

  • Each month, try to transfer a set amount from your earnings to savings. A monthly amount of $1,000 earning 4% interest will grow to approximately $145,000 in just ten years.

Reduce Your Consumer Debt

  • Avoid high credit card interest charges, especially now that there is no income tax deduction for this interest. Also, consider consolidating credit card debt to one card that offers competitive financing.

Profit from Tax-Deferred Savings

  • If you qualify, contribute to an Individual Retirement Account (IRA), or set up a qualified plan for your company (e.g., a 401(k) or profit sharing plan) and maximize contributions.

Bring Your Estate Plan Up-to-Date

  • Have your will and any trusts reviewed. Have a professional review your current life and disability policies. You may have a need for new insurance that you haven't considered yet.

Set Long-Term Financial Goals

  • Work within three time frames, setting one-, three-, and ten-year goals. Evaluate your progress each year and make the necessary adjustments to achieve long-term success.

Your Personal Future Matters

Make a commitment now to put your personal planning process in motion. Call today and make an appointment with your Financial Planner. They have the experience, resources and strategic partnerships to help you pull together all of these needs in your personal finances, freeing you up to focus on your business.

Other content you may like

  • Individual vs. Joint Trust: Which Do You Need?

    Individual vs. Joint Trust: Which Do You Need?

    December 17, 2024
    Make sure your estate plan reflects your wishes and provides you with protection! Did you know there is more than one kind of trust? There are joint and individual trusts covering a variety of unique circumstances. Do you know which is right for you? This article can help point you in the right direction.
    Read this Article
  • Annual Rebalancing in 4 Steps

    December 6, 2024
    The financial market is constantly moving all the time and your investments should evolve with the changes. By reviewing and rebalancing regularly, at least annually, you can help ensure your investments are allocated in a way that is consistent with your risk tolerance. Here are 4 steps to consider.
    Read this Article
  • AUG Student of the Market

    The 60/40 Portfolio Bounces Back

    August 26, 2023
    In this monthly market overview, we look at the 60/40 portfolio and what it’s been doing, how the Fed funds rate has surpassed inflation and what that could mean for bonds. Also a check on the housing market, Tech Stocks, AI breakthroughs and the anatomy of a Bull Market.
    Read this Article
  • Shelter From the Storm: What is Umbrella Coverage and How Much is Enough?

    June 3, 2025
    Life can present surprise storms when you least expect them. Is homeowner’s and auto insurance enough to weather a bad storm, or is there something more? This article covers the purpose of umbrella coverage and how it can protect a household in a financial downpour.
    Read this Article
  • The link you have selected is located on another server. The linked site contains information that has been created, published, maintained, or otherwise posted by institutions or organizations independent of this organization. We do not endorse, approve, certify, or control any linked websites, their sponsors, or any of their policies, activities, products, or services. We do not assume responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information contained therein. Visitors to any linked websites should not use or rely on the information contained therein until they have consulted with an independent financial professional. Please click “Continue to Link” to leave this website and proceed to the selected site.
    phone-handset