Consumers are borrowing again, making a big economic splash. Historically, spending stimulates the U.S. economy, but too much debt can harm overextended consumers. Have spending or investment questions to help manage your debt? Talk with an LPL financial advisor today. Mortgage Debt - $8.36 trillion: Up 1.37% (+12B) Good news: While borrowing peaked, balances fell […]

Start your child on the right path from Day 1. Open a Savings Account Most banks make it easy to transfer money into a savings account on a regular basis—you can even start before your baby arrives. Think of it as your go-to fund for supplies and surprises. Modify Insurance Coverage First, add your newborn […]

"High expectations are the key to everything." -- Sam Walton, Wal-Mart Founder There are a lot of myths surrounding reverse mortgages. They certainly are not the best option for all homeowners over 62 but many would benefit greatly from a reverse mortgage. A reverse mortgage is a great financial tool with minimum underwriting requirements to […]

Download the Checklist While divorce is never easy, thoughtful planning can help ease some of the pain. Here are key things you can do to keep on track while transitioning to your new financial life. Before a Divorce Gather and organize important documents Each spouse’s (and child’s) birth certificates, Social Security Cards and passports All […]

"There are many people out there who will tell you that you can’t. What you’ve got to do is turn around and say, ‘Watch Me’." -- Jack White, Musician List of the most Damaging items that affect your credit: Here is a list in order of what most negatively affects your credit in regard to […]

“In life, try your best to do the right thing. Have fun while you're alive. Take advantage of every asset you have. Don't take anything for granted.” - Justin Chon As an individual, it is extremely important to understand the credit scoring landscape in order to achieve financial success. In the credit and lending sphere, […]

Dying intestate (will-less) leaves your heirs with a potential mess. And yet, 61% of Americans die without one, says a recent Harris Interactive poll for RocketLawyer, a legal website. In fact, 28% of us would rather do anything than make a will. Without a will, a probate court decides where your property goes; it can […]

Provided by NJCPA. The New Jersey Division of Taxation has confirmed that taxpayers will not be required to provide driver’s license numbers on their paper or electronic New Jersey tax forms during the 2017 filing season. It will remain optional to provide that information. However, be aware that certain tax software programs may still require […]

At least 70% of American adults will need long-term care services and support sometime in their lifetime.* How will you plan to pay? Reasons to Save: Median Costs are Rising* Private Nursing Home Room: $87,600 Assisted Living Facility: $42,000 Home Health Aide Services: $45,188 Income often falls short of expenses. $31,742 is the average income […]