BDA Financial Services

07/21/2026

When I was young—much younger—we lived next door to a family whose breadwinner was a physician, and the mother stayed home with the kids. I recall Mom telling us that when her husband was in medical school, she would shop for groceries...

Financial fitness goes beyond earning money. Learn six practical steps to improve budgeting, manage debt, save for retirement, teach kids about money, and build long-term financial confidence.

07/20/2026

The earlier you start pursuing financial goals, the better your outcome may be. Let this piece help you get started.

The earlier you start pursuing financial goals, the better your outcome may be.

07/19/2026

07/15/2026

What would happen to your loved ones if you were gone? Make financial preparations today.

Variable Universal Life is permanent insurance in which the policyholder directs how premiums are invested.

07/15/2026

Helping a child or grandchild prepare for the future starts with having a plan—and for many families, a 529 plan is worth considering.

Here are a few things to know:

✔️ Earnings grow tax-deferred.
✔️ Qualified education withdrawals are generally tax-free.
✔️ Funds can be used for more than just traditional college expenses, including certain K–12 tuition, apprenticeship programs, and, in some cases, student loan repayment.

Like any investment, there are important considerations. Investment options are limited to the plan's available choices, fees can vary, and account values will fluctuate with the market. If funds are used for non-qualified expenses, taxes and penalties may apply to the earnings.

The right education savings strategy depends on your family's goals, timeline, and overall financial plan. A 529 plan can be a great tool—but it's not the only option.

If you'd like to discuss whether a 529 plan makes sense for your family, we'd be happy to help.

07/14/2026

“Social Security is one of the most effective poverty-prevention programs in history. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, it keeps nearly 29 million Americans from sliding into poverty each year,” BlackRock CEO Larry Fink wrote in his...

Learn how Social Security works, when to claim benefits, spousal benefit rules, earnings limits, and strategies to maximize retirement income.

07/13/2026

Information vs. instinct. Are your choices based on evidence of emotion? This piece helps answer those questions.

Information vs. instinct. Are your choices based on evidence of emotion?

07/13/2026

If your kids are starting a summer job, why not look into a Custodial Roth account? Talk to your kids about how they can get started with tax-advantaged savings. Whether they put money in the account or you get it started for them with a gift, it’s a good way to start a great habit. For more information or to set up a meeting, drop us a note today!

We can explain the pros and cons of Custodial Roth IRA, and introduce you to some of the unique features of custodial accounts, including when kids can take control of the asset. Also, remember, with a Roth IRA, to qualify for the tax-free and penalty-free withdrawal of earnings, a Roth must meet a 5-year holding requirement and occur after age 59½. Tax-free and penalty-free withdrawals can also be taken under certain other circumstances, and the original Roth IRA owner is not required to take minimum annual withdrawals.

07/12/2026

Despite a powerful Q2, individuals are hesitant.