University Investment Services

University Investment Services Led by Benjamin Bolen, CFP®, our work helps families prepare for retirement, aging, caregiving, estate planning, and legacy decisions with greater clarity.

Financial planning, investment guidance, and coordination for life’s most important transitions.

09/03/2026

Before any financial planning, we need to understand the basics: your income and your expenses. Knowing what you make and what you spend is key to managing savings, investments, and insurance.

09/01/2026

Beyond the tangible, life's true depth lies in the emotional. Family dynamics, grief, beliefs, and history weave the unspoken narrative that shapes us. These qualitative aspects are just as crucial.

I'd rather invest in the lower yielding bond.Why would you do that?Because I understand tax equivalent yield. On paper, ...
08/31/2026

I'd rather invest in the lower yielding bond.

Why would you do that?

Because I understand tax equivalent yield.

On paper, the 4.7% looks better than 4.0%, but you're not really keeping 4.7%.

Taxes showed up and ruined our rate party.

At a 24% federal tax rate, a 4.7% taxable yield leaves you with roughly 3.57% after federal taxes.

Meanwhile, a 4.0% federally tax-free yield stays 4.0%.

And that 4.0% tax-free yield is equivalent to earning about 5.26% on a taxable investment.

The point is this: taxes can change the answer.

Roth or Traditional.

Sell or hold.

Invest or pay down debt.

How you generate retirement income.

Where you hold certain investments.

The "best" choice on paper isn't always the best choice after taxes.

That's why we don't make financial decisions in a vacuum.

We look through the tax lens.

If you're holding cash and aren't taking advantage of broader opportunities, you're missing out.

08/31/2026

Spotting the subtle shifts in physical and daily routines can signal a growing need for support. This journey places immense emotional and physical strain on caregivers.

08/30/2026

Diane sacrificed everything for her aging father, becoming a martyr. Facing retirement, she asked how to age with dignity and avoid burdening her children. The answer? She hadn't grieved. Still a mother, wife, and financial manager, she was overwhelmed. The physical and emotional toll was immense, potentially costing her years of life.

08/29/2026

Those dashboard lights can be unsettling, especially when they're unfamiliar. Some are obvious, like the check engine light, but others are subtle. You might even have a warning light on that you've gotten so used to, it no longer alarms you. It's time to pay attention. maintenance lights tips safety care

08/27/2026

Ever wonder why some reactions feel so harsh? Often, it's not about you—it's a reflection of their own struggles. Learning to address difficult conversations proactively can significantly ease tension and foster understanding.

08/25/2026

The 'invincible archetype,' common in the Greatest Generation, often stems from past triumphs leading to denial about aging. This video explores how to approach difficult conversations with compassion and understanding.

08/24/2026

I am looking forward to hosting a workshop and book signing at Schuler Books books in the coming months.

My books have been on sale at the Ann Arbor store for the last six months, and now they are bringing me on for a special author event.

I'll be introducing some of the "characters" in my book and sharing the lessons we can learn from them.

Hear about the widower who learned there's more to life than the numbers in the accounts.

Or the woman who was willing to sacrifice her career and time with family to care for her father.

These stories are there to illustrate why planning is worth it.

My goal is to make it easier for you. With the upcoming audiobook, published family planning system, and personal guidance, you have help, no matter where your journey is starting.

08/24/2026

If my retirement accounts lost 20%, I would feel ________.

This is your risk tolerance.

If my retirement accounts dropped 20%, my planned retirement would be _______.

That's risk capacity.

You could take on losses and still retire on time, or it may delay you be years.

Nobody likes losing money, but a lot of the time, it doesn't matter.

Until you're nearing retirement.

Now you're facing reduced income, the potential to run out of money. All bad things.

A good retirement plan takes both into account: how we feel, and what we can realistically handle and still be ok over time.

If you're not confident in how your accounts or plan is structured, it may be time for a review.

Address

2015 Washtenaw Avenue
Ann Arbor, MI
48104

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+17343729312

Website

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