Mandatory Roth Catch-Up Contributions Begin in 2026

For nearly a quarter century, employers have been able to offer their retirement savings plan participants age 50 and older a valuable opportunity — the chance to make additional catch-up contributions to their plan. Thanks to the SECURE 2.0 Act passed in 2022, that opportunity became even more valuable: Employers may now allow plan participants age […]

The Fall Checklist: Balancing College Applications and Financial Planning

A Certified College Financial Consultant’s guide for families with high school seniors The Overlap of Two Journeys For families with high school seniors, fall is crunch time. Between campus visits, final SAT/ACT attempts, and essay writing, there’s also a parallel track that’s just as important: preparing the financial side of the college journey. Getting ahead […]

Lessons from the Trail: The Three P’s

Every year, thousands of hopeful hikers set out to conquer long-distance trails like the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, or Continental Divide Trail. With high spirits and grand ambitions, they march into the wilderness, packs stuffed with gear and dreams of transformation. Yet many are forced to quit early—not because of injury or lack of […]

From College Counselor to Certified College Financial Consultant: A Full-Circle Moment

Continuing education has always been important to me. As a career changer with a Master’s degree in Counseling, I’ve always enjoyed learning and strengthening my knowledge—whether that’s exploring different counseling theories or diving into the intricacies of new tax laws. That mindset is what led me to pursue the Certified College Financial Consultant (CCFC) designation. […]

Lessons from the Trail: The Glittery Burden

While thru-hiking on the Appalachian Trail in Georgia I noticed shimmery gold rocks the second day of my hike. These particular rocks were gorgeous…more sparkly and glittery than any other I have seen in nature. These rocks would be a beautiful addition to the prominently displayed rock collection in my living room. Throughout the next […]

Lessons from the Trail: Financial Planning – Life’s Shakedown Hike

In the world of long-distance hiking, a “shakedown hike” is a short test run where hikers assess their gear, fitness, and preparedness before committing to a full thru-hike. It helps identify what’s essential, what can be left behind, and what needs improvement—ultimately reducing the hiker’s risk and improving their success on the trail.  Financial planning […]