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.

Ever thought about your own financial independence? 

We believe it begins with a plan that will guide the best financial decision-making between now and retirement – your Financial Independence Day!

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.

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

Sometimes simple is best.

Many of us tend to complicate our financial situation; overthinking our options while ignoring the basics. But like anything else, the simplest rules are often the most important ones; and the ones most likely to be ignored.

How many of these simple rules do you follow?

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®​ 

By Maura C. Schauss, CFP®

Coincidentally, social distancing and spring cleaning are occurring simultaneously this year! For some, organizing and decluttering is a hobby, but for the rest of us, now is a perfect opportunity to not put off getting our finances in order any longer. Either way, having a good understanding of your finances will relieve some stress during this time because you’ll see where you can improve and what should stay the same.

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]

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.

We invite you to review the impact of missing some of the market's best days illustrated from a historical perspective. 

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.