We often talk about money in numbers: budgets, credit scores, and savings goals. But the truth is, money is emotional, too. And, for many of us, it carries a heavy past.

Maybe you grew up watching your parents argue over bills. You might have lost everything during a crisis. Or, maybe you’ve been told that you are “bad with money” so many times that you have started to believe it. These experiences can leave deep wounds that we call “financial trauma.” 

Like any kind of trauma, financial trauma can affect how you think, feel, and behave. If you have ever avoided opening a bill or checking your bank balance, you may have financial trauma. You are not lazy, broken, or irresponsible. You are human. Financial wounds need care, not criticism!

What is financial trauma?

Financial trauma is the emotional pain caused by past money-related experiences that felt unsafe, overwhelming, or deeply stressful. It can come from:

• Childhood poverty or instability
• Losing a job or home
• Going through divorce, bankruptcy, or foreclosure
• Losing a large amount of money or investments
• Being financially controlled or abused
• Growing up in a household where money was a source of fear or shame

Over time, these experiences can create subconscious patterns: avoidance, guilt, impulsive spending, or hoarding. Because our culture often ties money to self-worth, financial trauma can damage our self-esteem.

Signs you may be carrying financial trauma

Everyone processes trauma differently, but some common signs are:

• Anxiety when thinking about or handling money
• Panic or shutdown when unexpected expenses come up
• Avoiding budgeting or opening mail related to finances
• Feeling ashamed of your income, debt, or financial choices
• A sense of hopelessness when trying to improve things

Financial trauma can be healed!

Here are a few steps to healing financial trauma:

1. Name it without shame

• The first step to healing is acknowledging your experiences without judgement. You are not weak for feeling the way you do. Your emotions make sense in the context of what you have lived through. Try saying, “It’s okay to feel this way. I’ve been through a lot, and I’m allowed to take my time.”

2. Create a safe space for money

• Instead of diving into spreadsheets and strict budgets, begin my making money feel less scary. You can listen to music while you balance your accounts, set a timer for 5-10 minutes of “money time” per week, or use affirming language (“I’m learning” or “I’m allowed to get better at this.” Doing these actions, creates a calm nervous system response, helping you slowly rebuild trust with your money and yourself.

3. Practice financial self-compassion

• If you have made mistakes, let it remain in the past. Resist the urge to beat yourself up. Instead of “I’m so bad with money,” try: “I did what I could with what I knew.” You cannot punish yourself into progress, but you can support yourself into healing.

4. Start with small, empowering wins

• Healing trauma doesn’t happen all at once. Start small and celebrate your wins! Every small action is a message to your brain that you are safe, growing, and can handle what comes your way.

5. Work with supportive professionals

• You don’t have to do it alone. Financial counselors can help you rebuild your financial confidence, without judgement. And, if you need to do a deep dive into your emotional wounds, you may consider seeing a financial therapist. Another valuable resource is community support groups or online spaces offer encouragement from other people who may understand your situation.

Your financial peace is possible

At Walters Financial Wellness, I believe that true financial health includes emotional wellness. If you are ready to take steps toward healing, rebuilding, and feeling confident with money again, I’m here to walk beside you!

In this economy, many people have turned to side hustles to help supplement their income. Are you one of these entrepreneurs? 

Maybe you’ve even been making a little money on the side selling handmade items, offering freelance services, or tutoring after work. Maybe you are starting to do very well, but want to do more.

Many successful entrepreneurs start right where you are: with a passion project or side hustle that grows slowly. Turning your side gig into a legitimate business takes more than just time and talent. It takes planning, intention, and a few key financial moves.

Where to start

1. Know your why

• Before you dive into the logistics, take a moment to reflect. Why do you want to turn your hustle into a business? Do you want more freedom? More income? To create a legacy? Having a clear “why” helps you stay grounded when the work gets tough, plus it can guide your business decisions and priorities moving forward.

2. Separate you finances

• Open a separate bank account for you business income and expenses. It makes tax time easier, helps you see what you are really earning, and creates a clear line between “hobby” and “business” in the eyes of the IRS.

3. Get legal

• Create a structure like a sole proprietorship or LLC (Limited Liability Company). Also, apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number) through the IRS and check if you need a business license through your city or state.

4. Track your income and expenses

• Use a spreadsheet to track what you make and spend. This helps you stay organized and understand if your side gig is profitable.

Tip: Don’t forget to track your mileage, if you drive for work

5. Make a simple business plan

• A business plan helps you stay focused. It should include: what you offer, who you help, what makes you different, how you’ll earn money, and what your short-term goals are.

6. Start small, but think long-term

• You don’t need to have everything figured out today. Start with small steps like booking a client or creating a website. Also, keep an eye on the future. Ask yourself questions like, “could this replace my job one day” and “what kind of life do I want this business to support?”

7. Build a support team

• Even entrepreneurs need support. You don’t have to do this alone. Consider reaching out to a financial consultant (like Walters Financial Wellness) to help with budgeting, taxes, and planning. Or, find a mentor in your community or in an online community for small business owners.

Need help building the financial side of your business?

I offer one-on-one financial wellness counseling to help new entrepreneurs get organized, plan with confidence, and feel in control of their money. Let’s build something strong, together!

Have you ever felt like no matter how much money you have, it’s never enough? Not enough to save? Not enough to rest? Not enough to breathe? Those thoughts are examples of scarcity thinking! Scarcity thinking keeps you stuck in stress, fear, and survival mode. But the good news is that you can learn to shift out of scarcity and into a mindset of stability, sufficiency, and possibility, even when your income hasn’t changed!

Let’s discuss scarcity thinking more in-depth and how you can change it.

Examples of scarcity thinking

• “There’s never enough.”
• “If I spend now, I’ll regret it later.”
• “I’ll always be behind everyone else.”
• “I can’t afford anything fun or extra.”
• “Money disappears as fast as it comes in.”

These thoughts are more than being frugal or careful. Scarcity thinking creates a constant sense of financial panic, even when your actual situation is improving. That isn’t helpful or healthy.

How scarcity mindset shows up

It might look like:

• Feeling guilty for every purchase, even necessities
• Holding off on investing in yourself or your future
• Underspending on things you truly need
• Constant anxiety about bills, even when they are covered
• Thinking financial security is only for “other people”

Scarcity mindset isn’t a personal failure, it’s often rooted in past experiences, family beliefs, or economic trauma.

What happens when you shift from scarcity to abundance

When you stop living in fear of not having enough, something powerful happens:

• You make clearer, more confident financial decisions
• You spend with purpose, not panic
• You start to see what’s possible, instead of what’s missing
• You build wealth with less shame and more intention

Abundance doesn’t mean spending recklessly. It means knowing you are capable, worthy, and resourceful enough to make it through, even when times are tough.

5 Steps to shift out of scarcity thinking

1. Notice your thinking patterns

• Start by paying attention to your self talk. Changing your mindset begins with changing your inner voice. “I’ll never get ahead” will soon become, “I’m learning to manage my money better every month.”

2. Celebrate every win, even if it’s small

• Did you stick to your budget? Say no to an impulse buy? Add $10 to your savings? Everything counts. Scarcity thinking tells you it’s not enough, but the reality is that you are growing and that every step forward builds momentum.

3. Set intention goals that are not rooted in fear

• Purpose creates motivation. Panic creates burnout. Instead of thinking, “I have to cut back on everything,” try changing to narrative to, ” I want to save $200 this month so I can feel more secure.” 

4. Spend according to your values

• Scarcity says, “Spending it bad.” Abundance says, “Spending on the right things brings peace and security.” As an example, investing in therapy, rest, education, or experiences that you value isn’t a failure, it’s financial wellness!

5. Surround yourself with support

• You are not the only one who’s ever struggled with money. Learning about financial wellness, working with a financial counselor, or having honest conversations with people you can trust can help you feel less alone and more empowered.

You don’t have to wait until you are debt free

You can shift your mindset today. You are not broken, you are not behind, and you are doing the best you can for your situation. That is all that matters. 

At Walters Financial Wellness, I help people break free from scarcity thinking and build a financial life that is rooted in peace, purpose, and possibility. If you are ready for a mindset shift, I’d be honored to walk that path with you.

We all have dreams when it comes to money: less stress, more savings, financial freedom, or maybe just peace of mind. Turning these dreams into reality requires more than wishful thinking! It takes clear, intentional goals! That is where S.M.A.R.T. financial goals come in. Let’s break down how to create them!

What are S.M.A.R.T. goals?

S.M.A.R.T. stands for:

• Specific
• Measurable
• Achievable
• Relevant
• Time-Bound

Creating S.M.A.R.T. goals works because it turns broad goals into realistic action plans, specific to your needs!

Step-by-step: turning a dream into a S.M.A.R.T. goal

Let’s take a common goal, “I want to pay off debt,” and make it S.M.A.R.T!

1. Specific: What exactly do you want to accomplish?

• “I want to pay off my $3000 credit card balance.”

2. Measurable: How will you know you’re making progress?

• “I’ll track each payment and remaining balance, monthly.”

3. Achievable: Can this realistically happen with your current income, expenses, and timeline?

• “I can afford $250/month if I cut back on eating out.”

4. Relevant: Does this goal align with your values and overall plan?

• “Paying off debt will free up money for saving and reduce stress.”

5. Time-Bound: What’s your deadline?

• “I will pay off the balance in 12 months.”

Here is the S.M.A.R.T. goal that was created: “I will pay off my $3000 credit card by making $250 payments each month, starting this month and finishing within 12 months.”

Examples of other S.M.A.R.T. goals:

• Save $2500 for a Summer vacation by June 1st by transferring $125 from each biweekly paycheck
• Pay off $1200 in medical debt by December by making $200 monthly payments
• Increase TSP contributions from 5% to 10% by the end of the year to boost retirement savings
• Save $4000 for a used car by saving $500/month for the next 6 months
• Track every dollar I spend for 30 days using an app, so I can identify patterns and build a realistic budget

Pro Tip: Break down big goals

If your goal feels overwhelming, try breaking it into smaller checkpoints. 

Example: “I want to save $10000” becomes:

• $500 in 1 month
• $1000 in 2 months
• $2000 in 4 months

Small wins add up fast and boost your confidence!

Ready to write you own?

Ask yourself:

• What do I want to change?
• How will I track progress?
• What’s realistic for my current situation?
• Why is this goal important to me?
• When do I wan to accomplish it?

Then, build your S.M.A.R.T. goal!

At Walters Financial Wellness, I can help you:

Setting goals is just the beginning. Sticking to them and adjusting them when life happens, is where financial counseling can help!

• Set meaningful, realistic goals
• Create a plan that works for your life
• Stay motivated and accountable along the way

Schedule a consultation today!

Credit scores can feel like a mystery, but they don’t have to. Whether you are trying to buy a home, get approved for a credit card, or trying to build a better financial future, your credit score plays a major role. Let’s break down what your credit score means, how it’s calculated, and what steps you can take to raise it, without stress or shame!

What is a credit score?

Your credit score is a 3-digit number that shows lenders how likely you are to repay borrowed money. It typically ranges between 300-850, and it’s based on your credit history, not your income, savings, or net worth (more on this below).

Score Examples:

800-850          Excellent

740-799          Very good

670-739          Good

580-669.         Fair

300-579          Poor

Why does your credit score matter?

A higher credit score can help you:

• Qualify for loans and credit cards
• Get lower interest rates
• Reduce security deposits for housing or utilities
• Access better insurance rates

A good credit score saves you money and opens up financial options!

What factors impact your credit score?

Most scores (including FICO® and VantageScore) are based on five main areas:

1. Payment History (35%) Have you paid bills on time? Even one missed payment can lower your score.
2. Credit Utilization (30%) How much of your available credit are you using? (Aim for under 30%)
3. Length of credit history (15%) How long have you had your credit account? Older accounts help raise your score.
4. Credit Mix (10%) Do you have a mix of credit types (i.e., credit cards, loans, etc.)?
5. New Credit/Inquires (10%) Have you opened many accounts recently? Too many at once can hurt your credit score.

How to check your credit score for free:

You are entitled to one free credit report every year from each of the three major credit bureaus (i.e., Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion) at:

www.annualcreditreport.com

Tip: Checking your credit score doesn’t hurt your score.

7 Easy ways to improve your credit score:

1. Pay all bills on-time

• Even one missed payment can stay on your credit report for years
• Tip: set reminders or automate payments

2. Keep credit card balances low

• Aim to use less than 30% of your available credit

3. Don’t close old accounts (unless you need to)

• Older accounts help your credit age. If there is no fee, keep them open.

4. Avoid opening too many new accounts

• Each new application causes a “hard inquiry” which can temporarily lower your score

5. Ask for higher credit limits (but don’t use it)

• This can lower your utilization rate if you don’t spend more of your available credit

6. Dispute errors on your credit report

• Mistakes happen! If you see something wrong, file a dispute with the credit bureau. 
• Tip: Check with each bureau. They may not have the same information listed.

7. Consider a secured credit card

• This is great for building or rebuilding credit. You deposit money as collateral, then use the card.

Credit is a tool, not a reflection on who you are

Your credit score is a tool to help you access opportunities, not a reflection of your worth! If you have struggled with credit in the past, you are not alone. It’s never too late to build, or rebuild, credit!

At Walters Financial Wellness, LLC, I can help you:

• Understand your credit without judgement
• Make a step-by-step plan to improve your score
• Feel more confident navigating credit cards, loans, and lenders

You don’t need to figure it out alone! Make an appointment today

When most people hear the word “trust,” they think it’s something only wealthy families need. But, the truth is, a family trust can be a valuable tool for many people, not just the ultra-rich.

Whether you want to protect your assets, plan for your children’s future, or avoid a complicated probate process, a family trust could help you gain peace of mind and control over how your legacy is handled.

Let’s break down what a family trust is, how it works, and who should consider setting one up.

What is a family trust?

A family trust is a legal agreement that holds and manages your assets during your lifetime. Then, distributes your assets according to your wishes; after your death.

How it typically works:

• You (the grantor) place assets like property, bank accounts, or investments into a trust
• You name a trustee (this could be you while you are alive, and someone else after your death)
• The beneficiaries are your family members or loved ones. They will receive your assets after you pass away.

Tip: Unlike a will, a trust goes into effect while you are still alive and allows your family to avoid probate (the legal process of distributing your estate).

The benefits of a family trust

A family trust can:

• Avoid probate and keep your estate private
• Distribute assets quickly after your death
• Control when and how your beneficiaries receive money
• Protect minor children or dependents
• Reduce family conflict by making your wishes clear
• Provide management of your assets if you become incapacitated

Who should consider a family trust

You may benefit from a family trust if you:

1. Have minor children

• A trust allows you to set rules for when and how your children inherit money or property. This is especially helpful if they are too young to manage it. 

2. You own your own property or multiple assets

• If you own a home, rental property, land, or valuable possessions, putting them into a family trust can help your heirs avoid probate and receive assets faster.

3. You want to avoid probate court

• Even with a will, your estate could get stuck in probate. This costs time, money, and privacy. A family trust skips probate.

4. You have a blended family or complex family dynamics

• A trust can make sure your assets go to who you want them to.

5. You want to protect a family member with special needs

• A special needs trust can ensure a child or adult dependent is cared for without jeopardizing their access to government benefits.

6. You want to plan for incapacity

• If something happens to you and you are unable to manage your finances, your appointed trustee can step in without the need for court intervention.

Is a family trust right for you?

A family trust isn’t necessary for everyone. It might not be the best fit if:

• You have minimal assets
• You are only leaving money to one or two people
• You are okay with your estate going through probate

How to create a trust

1. Consult an estate planning attorney
2. Choose your trustee and beneficiaries
3. Decide which assets to transfer to the trust
4. Sign and notarize the trust documents
5. Fund the trust by retitling accounts and property

Final Thoughts

A family trust is more than a legal document. It’s a powerful way to protect the people and values you care about the most. Whether you are just starting to build wealth or thinking about legacy planning, it might be worth exploring.

At Walters Financial Wellness, LLC, I help families understand their financial options. If you are unsure whether a trust is right for you, I can walk you through the pros and cons.

If life has taught us anything, it’s that unexpected things happen. Whether it’s a flat tire, a medical bill, a job layoff, or a busted water heater, an unexpected expense can be financially detrimental. An emergency fund can make a huge difference in protecting yourself against hardship.

What is an emergency fund?

An emergency fund is money that you have set aside specifically for unplanned expenses like:

• Medical emergency expenses
• Car or home repairs
• Job loss or reduced hours
• Emergency travel
• Replacing a broken appliance

There is no need for shame when spending emergency funds on an unexpected expense. Emergency funds are for your financial security. 

Tip: Emergency funds aren’t for vacations, shopping, or “want it” situations.

Why is it so important to create?

When emergencies hit and there isn’t a cushion, people often have to:

• Take on credit card debt
• Use payday loans 
• Borrow from retirement accounts
• Delay other financial goals

Emergency funds help you handle a crisis without creating a new one.

How much should I save?

This depends on your situation, but here is a general guideline:

Starter Fund:    $500-$1000

Basic Cushion:    1-3 months of expenses

Full Emergency Fund:    3-6 months of expenses

Tip: If you are living paycheck-to-paycheck, even saving $25-$50, at a time, is a win! You are building resilience!

Where should I keep it?

Your emergency fund should be:

• Easy to access (but not too easy)
• Separate from your checking account
• Safe (not invested in the stock market)

Tip: A high-yield savings account or money market account is a great option. It earns a bit of interest and keeps the money out of sight and mind, until you need it. 

5 tips for start (or grow) your emergency fund:

1. Set a clear, specific goal

• “I want to save $600 in 3 months by setting aside $50 from each paycheck”

2. Automate it

• Schedule a recurring transfer to savings.

3. Save unexpected money (i.e.,  tax money, birthday gifts, and rebate checks)

4. Cut one small expense

• Cancel a subscription or bring coffee from home for a month. Redirect that savings.

5. Celebrate milestones

• Give yourself credit while you are building an emergency fund

Emergency funds aren’t about being afraid, they are about being prepared

Emergency funds bring peace of mind, protects your progress, and helps you breathe easier when life gets hard. 

At Walters Financial Wellness, LLC, we can help you:

• Set realistic savings goals
• Build your emergency fund step-by-step
• Feel confident and in control of your money

You deserve financial security! It starts with one simple savings goal, the emergency fund. Let’s build it together!

What comes to mind when you think about your retirement? Travel? Spending time with family? A new hobby? Whatever you envision, one thing is for certain. You’ll need a steady income to support it.

Unlike during your working years, you may not be earning a paycheck. That’s why it’s so important to plan ahead. 

Here is a breakdown of common retirement income sources:

1. Social Security

Social Security provides monthly payments based on your earnings history.  You can start receiving benefits at age 62-70 years old, but waiting longer increases your benefit. It is meant to supplement your income, not replace it fully. You may expect to receive 40% of your income.

Tip: Check your estimated benefit at ssa.gov.

2. Employer-Sponsored Retirement Plans, 401(k)

Many employers offer retirement savings plans, such as a 401(k). These accounts let you invest pre-tax dollars. Many employers will match a portion of your contributions. At the age of 73 (as of 2025), you must begin taking required minimum distributions (RMDs). Withdrawls are taxed as regular income.

3. IRAs (Traditional & Roth)

Traditional  IRAs are tax-deferred and require RMDs starting at 73 (as of 2025). Roth IRAs are funded with after-tax dollars, but allow tax-free withdrawls in retirement. Roth IRAs do not have RMDs and are great if you expect to be in a higher tax bracket later.

Tip: Diversifying with both Traditional and Roth accounts can give you more tax flexibility in retirement.

4. Pensions

Though less common today, some employers still offer pensions. Pensions are guaranteed monthly payments for life, after a certain number of years working with a company. They are usually calculated based on salary and years worked. You may have an option between a lump-sum and monthly payments.

5. Annuities

Annuities are insurance products that convert a lump sum in to a stream of income, for a set period or for life. Annuities can provide guaranteed income in retirement. There are many types: immediate, deferred, fixed, and variable. 

6. Personal Savings & Investments

This category includes your checking and savings accounts, brokerage accounts, real estate, and other investments, that are not held in a retirement account. These funds are more flexible and are not subject to RMDs. Taxes depend on the type of asset (capital gains, interest, etc.)

Tip: Consider planning a withdrawl strategy to minimize taxes and make your money last.

7. Part-Time Work or Business Income

Many retirees supplement their income by working part-time or by starting a small business. This can also help you delay withdrawls from retirement accounts.

Tip: This may impact your Social Security benefits if you claim before full retirement age.

A strong retirement plan doesn’t rely on one income source

Blend several retirement sources to create stability and flexibility. The earlier you begin planning, the more options you will have! It’s never too early, or late, to start planning!

Need more help?

At Walters Financial Wellness, we help clients set healthy retirement planning in motion. Contact us today!

Deployments bring a mix of emotions, such as pride, stress, and sometimes even financial confusion. Whether you are the one deploying or you’re the partner staying home, this period can stretch households in unexpected ways. One of the best ways to reduce stress is to make sure your finances are prepared and protected. Here are a few ways military families can stay financially strong before, during, and after deployment:

1. Set up or review your budget

Your household expenses may shift during deployment. Now is the time to create a realistic, updated budget.

Consider:

• Decreased spending on gas or food for the deployed member
• Increased childcare or home maintenance costs
• Extra income through deployment pay or hazardous duty pay

Tip: Use a separate category for temporary deployment expenses to help track what will change post-deployment.

2. Automate everything you can

Deployment often comes with unpredicatable schedules and limited communication. Automating your finances can reduce stress for both partners. Consider:

• Automatic bill payments
• Direct deposits
• Scheduled transfers to savings

Tip: Share account logins and passwords. Set up shared access.

3. Use your SCRA and military protections

The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) provides financial protections, including:

• Interest rat cap of 6% on pre-service loans and credit cards (6% on all credit cards and loans in certain states)
• Protection against eviction and foreclosure
• Delayed civil court actions (like lawsuits)

Tip: You must request SCRA protections from lenders.

4. Designate or update a Power of Attorney

Having a Power of Attorney (POA) is essential. This gives your trusted partner the ability to:

• Access bank accounts that are not joint
• Make financial decisions for the deployed individual
• Handle legal or housing paperwork (including utilities)

5. Boost savings while you can

Deployment pay often increases your income. This is an opportunity to:

• Pay down debt
• Start or grow an emergency fund
• Contribute to TSP or IRAs
• Save for a post-deployment vacation or transition period

6. Check on life insurance and beneficiaries

• Review your SGLI coverage
• Ensure your beneficiaries are current
• Discuss any additional private life insurance needs

7. Communicate openly, even if briefly

You may not be able to talk often, but even a short conversation about money can help you feel connected and on the same team. Here are a few things to discuss:

• How is your spending plan going?
• Are there any unexpected expenses?
• Can you still meet your savings goals?

8. Plan for post-deployment adjustments

Reintegrating after deployment comes with emotional and financial shifts. Consider:

• What expenses will return? (i.e., groceries, gas, etc.)
• Whether your budget needs to be adjusted again
• If you will be making any major purchases or decisions
• Tip: Plan a financial debrief within 30 days of a homecoming to reset goals and review progress.

Coming out of deployment stronger

Deployment is a time of sacrifice, but can also be a time of financial growth and clarity. With the right preparation and communication, your family can come out stronger, more secure, and more united in your financial future!

Overwhelmed?

If you are feeling overwhelmed or don’t know where to start, you are not alone! I specialize in helping military families feel empowered and in control of their money. Contact me for a 30 minute consultation.

When it comes to financial wellness, insurance is one of the most powerful, and often overlooked, tools. The right coverage can protect your health, income, property, and peace of mind.

Here is a simple breakdown of the major types of insurance that you may need:

1. Health Insurance

Unexpected medical bills are a leading cause of debt. Health insurance helps cover doctor visits, hospital stays, perscriptions, and preventative care.

Tip: Even high-deductible plans can offer protection. Make sure you understand your premiums, co-pays, deductibles, and out-of-pocket maximums. 

2. Auto Insurance

If you drive, auto insurance is not only smart, but usually the law! Auto insurance can cover property coverage, medical expenses, and liability.

Tip: Review your policy annually. Consider higher coverage if you own assets that could be at risk in a lawsuit.

3. Homeowners or Renters Insurance

Whether you own or rent, you need coverage. These insurance policies cover damage to your property, damage to your belongings, and liability if someone is injured on your property.

Tip: Don’t underestimate the value of renters insurance. It’s fairly affordable and provides essential protection.

4. Life Insurance

Life insurance provides financial support for your loved ones if you pass away. It can help pay for funeral costs, pay off debt, and replace lost income.

Tip: Term Life Insurance is typically affordable and a good fit for families. If you have. dependents or debt, it’s something to explore.

5. Disability Insurance

If you become unable to work due to illness or injury, disability insurance can replace a portion of your income. This may be especially important if you rely on your paycheck to support your family.

Tip: Check if your employer offers disability insurance. If they don’t, look into private coverage.

6. Long-Term Insurance

As we age, we may need help with daily activities, like bathing, eating, and getting dressed. Long-term care insurance helps cover the cost of home health aides, assisted living, or nursing home care.

Tip: It is best to consider long-term insurance early on, because premiums rise over time and health concerns may make you ineligible.

7. Business Insurance

If you are self-employed, business insurance can protect your income, cover liability, and even protect your clients and equipment.

Tip: There are policies designed for small business owners. These may include, general liability, professional liability, and business property insurance.

Not sure what type you need?

Insurance protects you from the unexpected and gives you the confidence to move forward with your financial goals. They right coverage depends on your lifestyle, income, dependents, and future plans. Not sure what type you need? Meet with me, today. I’ll help you make informed decisions!