Money isn't a goal, it's a tool, and it is often too easy to lose sight of why we're saving and investing money.

Short Answer: Yes.

We believe in giving back. But we don't just want to give - we want to give the smart way. Here are some things to consider when you're giving to charity.

College can be one of the biggest expenses in your budget. We'll help you figure out how to plan for it.

Anyone who reaches age 70 ½ must start taking RMDs (Required Minimum Distributions) from their retirement accounts - and they have to pay income taxes on these distributions. But for those of you who are already planning to donate to charity, it's possible to donate directly from your individual retirement account as a QCD - a Qualified Charitable Distribution. This counts as part of your required minimum distribution, but the money isn't taxed - it goes straight to charity.

Most people come into our office not knowing the difference between a stock and a bond, but knowing that they "should be investing." Different people will have different goals, timelines, and risk acceptance levels. Your portfolio (your "basket of investments") should be chosen carefully to weigh risk and return, and avoid fees whenever possible. There is no one right way to invest, but you should always follow a few basic guidelines.