Kathryn J. Hower, CFP®

Teaching children financial literacy skills early in life can help set them up for future financial success, but where’s a parent to begin? At Bedel, we encourage parents to teach the three S’s – saving, smart spending, and sharing. Read on for the details on each.

Is your child’s identity at risk? That might sound like a crazy question, but young children are prime targets for identity theft. We’ve outlined how children’s identities can be stolen, warning signs to look for, and what you should do if you find out your child has become a victim.

Do you know what post-high school educational expenses qualify for tax-free reimbursement from your child’s 529 account? It’s important to know what expenses do qualify in order to avoid paying taxes and a penalty for those expenses that don’t.

What happens if you die without a will in place? Who decides where your assets go, and more importantly, who cares for your children? Without a will, these decisions are left up to the state…and you might not like their choices. Drafting a will enables you to clearly articulate your wishes for the disposition of your estate, as well as the care of your children, ensuring your final wishes are carried out. Read on for our tips on creating your will.

We’re coming off the best year for existing home sales in 11 years…so is now the right time for you to downsize? Many might advise you to take the money and run, but it could come at a cost. We’ve outlined the pros and cons for downsizing, and what each might mean for your bottom line.

Inheriting an IRA can be a blessing. Dealing with the IRS distribution rules can be a headache. Understand your options!

You’ve executed a last will and testament and created a plan for divvying up your assets when you pass. You’re covered, right? Not ...

Does someone close to you have Alzheimer’s? If so, you’ll likely want your loved one to retain his or her lifestyle and independence as ...

With the holiday season upon us, it’s important to make a plan for all the expenses that come along with the festivities.

If you are one of the 64% of Americans who do not have a will, you are in the good company of Aretha Franklin and Prince as well as Sonny Bono, Martin Luther King, Jr., and Abraham Lincoln. Unfortunately, dying without a will can create a mess for your heirs.

Quite a few people have savings bonds that they purchased or received as a gift years ago. If you’re one of those people, you’ve probably wondered what they’re worth or what you can do with them now?

On March 21, Governor Pence signed legislation allowing Indiana to create the ABLE savings account for people with disabilities. These accounts have favorable tax benefits, but also some drawbacks. Regardless, this could be a game-changer for special needs individuals!