financial planning

By Maura C. Schauss, CFP®

If the coronavirus’ effect on the markets has taught us anything, it is that every single person should have an emergency fund. This is not just an idea, nor is it a savings account, but rather, it is a separate pool of money to only use in emergencies. So, how do you even start the process of creating an emergency savings fund?

by Washington Wealth Advisors

Our team has a passion for our client's financial independence. 

Sometimes referred to as the "new retirement," financial independence is the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have the freedom to leave your career or job as the portfolio you’ve created can replace your paycheck.

By Maura C. Schauss, CFP® and Todd Youngdahl, CFP®

Have you found yourself unsure of your financial situation in the past few weeks? For many people, that answer is a resounding yes. In seasons like this, it is abundantly clear that we all need someone in our corner who is helping us navigate the unknown in areas where we lack expertise.

Just like we all are realizing that virtual opportunities are beneficial, they are not always as effective as human interactions. The same can apply if you are using a robo-advisor or trying to manage your financial situation by yourself.

Consider the following 3 benefits for you and your family when you have someone you trust, who holds a holistic view of your financial situation, and who can tailor a financial plan specifically for your lifestyle and goals.

By Todd I. Youngdahl, CFP® and Maura C. Schauss, CFP®

By Maura Schauss, CFP® 

Riding the highs, and experiencing the lows, it is the way of the investment market. However, what if we told you that the key to sound and quality investing is learning how to keep it cool when the market is in turmoil? Yes, this includes our markets today, where Coronavirus has caused a shocking amount of volatility. Let’s look at some of the tools that can help you manage your emotions and expectations during market uncertainty.

By Todd Youngdahl, CFP® and Maura Schauss, CFP®​ 

Many investors, especially those currently seeing major losses due to COVID-19’s impact on the markets, have developed a low tolerance for volatility. As a result, they have moved a significant portion of their investments into bonds or other fixed yield vehicles. What many investors may not realize is that large changes from one asset class to another in order to avoid volatility, can actually increase it. Secondly, for investors with a long-term perspective on their investments, volatility is actually a good thing, as it is the primary driver behind the sustained market gains over the last century.

By Maura C. Schauss, CFP®

By Maura C. Schauss, CFP®

There are 135 different certifications for financial advisors, and most of them begin with the letter “C”: CFPs, ChFCs, CPAs, CLUs, CFSs, and the list goes on. With an alphabet soup of certifications, how do you find a financial professional who’s right for you?

According to a recent survey, most high-income households want their advisors to have these qualifications:[1]

• 85% find it “very important” or “extremely important” for their advisor to have successfully completed a certification examination.

• 95% believe their advisor should adhere to professional practice standards.

• 97% say it’s extremely important for their advisor to adhere to a professional code of ethics.

That’s a tall order. But—believe it or not—it’s not impossible to find an advisor who meets these qualifications. In fact, certified financial planners (CFP®s) check all these boxes and more.

Read on as we discuss everything you need to know about the importance to you in working with a CFP®.

The greatest challenge investors have with the stock market, is having the discipline to stay in it long enough to be rewarded for their risk.

By Maura Schauss, CFP® and Todd Youngdahl, CFP®

The financial markets took a big dip early this week over fears about the spreading coronavirus, erasing gains from earlier this year. After the Dow lost over 800 points on Tuesday, it was down a total of 1,900 points in two days and the volatility has continued. 

Investors are understandably nervous about their money and their health. If you are worried about your portfolio, you’re not alone. But during stock market volatility, it’s important to keep a level head to avoid financial mistakes.