New numbers for 2025
Good morning,
As we all remember Jimmy Carter, thought I’d share the picture above…
This is Elizabeth and I with Rosalynn and Jimmy from one of Elizabeth’s work trips in 2007.
We sat next to them at breakfast one morning and had a lovely conversation.
If you click that☝🏻 link, you’ll see one of Jimmy’s Secret Service agents keeping an eye on me while sipping his OJ.
2025 key financial data
The above PDF is full of updated financial data for 2025 including income tax rates, gifting limits, retirement account contribution limits, and more.
A bunch of new numbers for the new year.
And don’t forget, we might be facing a “sunset” at the end of this year.
Click the image to download and save for your reference.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss anything, let me know.
Hiring an advisor
I posted this on Linkedin recently and it’s gotten more than 3,800 views:
Here are the 3 essential considerations when hiring a financial advisor:
1. Know How They're Paid > "Fee-only" advisors are paid directly by clients and cannot accept outside commissions. "Fee-based" advisors may also earn commissions from products they sell. Understanding this difference helps you spot potential conflicts of interest.
2. Planning vs. Products > Look for advisors who focus on comprehensive financial planning rather than primarily selling financial products. Be especially cautious of those who frequently push insurance products, annuities, or "infinite banking" concepts.
3. Client Service Model > Ask how many clients they serve and their communication approach. Too many clients (150+) per advisor may impact service quality. Ensure they're responsive and genuinely interested in understanding your needs rather than just managing your investments.
I recommend interviewing at least three advisors before making your choice.
Because it's an important decision...
For more on hiring an advisor, read this.
Prison break
Back on December 27th, Elizabeth and I busted someone out of prison.
Sort of…
For the last couple of weeks, we’ve been fostering Zilly.
She’s available for adoption from Dekalb County here in Atlanta.
Zilly is a sweet, funny, goofy dog with tons of personality.
While we’re not sure she’s the best long-term fit for us, we’re trying hard to find her a “furever” home or long-term foster so we don’t have to take her back to the shelter.
If you or someone you know might be interested in giving this pup a great home, let me know.
It’s been nice having a dog in the house again. 🐶
Now it’s your turn…
Hit reply or leave a comment and let me know what you’ve been up to so far in 2025.
And if you have any questions or would like me to weigh in on a specific topic, the request line is open. 😉
Links & things
I really like this perspective on how to define wealth from Derek Sivers… click the link below to read:
It’s a clear, concise idea that addresses several concepts like:
focusing on the things within your control
making things simpler and easier
Brings to mind this great quote by Charles Bukowski:
The less I needed, the better I felt.
Until next Wednesday,
Russ