Ericka Z. Schaefer, CHFC

01/08/2026

The views stated here are explicitly my own.

01/15/2025

Financial jargon can be confusing - let's unpack it together!

01/10/2025

In a society where we are pushed to "have it all", it can be tough deciding how to allocate limited resources. Our family values experiences over material items, so for Christmas this year, I gifted The Husband courtside seats to a Timberwolves game. The tree looked pretty darn empty since his present wasn't something I could wrap, and I struggled with internal feelings of guilt. I almost blew my gift-giving budget by adding more Stuff to my shopping cart. Thankfully my brain outweighed my heart, and I stuck to my plan. In the end, his joy leading up to & during the game washed away any remnants of those guilty feelings.
Learning about my client's values and goals is the first step in determining how to allocate a household's resources. Once we know what is important to you, the path becomes clear... even if it isn't always "easy". So would you rather have more things or more experiences?

01/06/2025

The opinions contained in this material are those of the author, and not a recommendation or solicitation to buy or sell investment products. This information is from sources believed to be reliable, but Cetera Advisor Networks LLC cannot guarantee or represent that it is accurate or complete.

01/03/2025

Happy Friday! How are you celebrating Financial Wellness Month?

01/01/2025

12/28/2024

Building your wealth likely won’t happen overnight. Rather, building your wealth through achieving your financial goals will likely be a life-long process that, if you stick to it, can offer you great rewards.

Whether it be increasing your retirement account contribution or paying your mortgage off early, each financial goal is an important part of your overall strategy and can help you get to where you want to be financially.

12/21/2024

While many parts of the US have felt 'wintery' for a while now, today marks the official start of winter and the shortest day of the year. As a Minnesotan, I'm personally excited for days to get longer... how about you?

12/19/2024

How do you define wealth? Is it a certain net worth? A lifestyle? The ability to live fully into your values?

For most people who achieve significant wealth, the dollar amount is as fulfilling as the life it affords.

My team’s goal is to help you define wealth on your terms so you can reach your goals and live the life you desire.

12/17/2024

The IRS has released the 2025 tax brackets with a 2.8% inflation adjustment—the smallest increase in several years.

Here's what's changing:
➡️ Standard deduction for married couples filing jointly rises to $30,000
➡️ Single filers' standard deduction increases to $15,000
➡️ Annual tax-free gift limit grows to $19,000 per recipient
➡️ Estate tax exclusion reaches $13.99 million (up from $13.61 million)
➡️ Earned Income Tax Credit maximum increases to $8,046 for qualifying families

Understanding how tax brackets work remains crucial: you're only taxed at higher rates for income above each threshold, not your entire earnings. For example, if you're married filing jointly, you'll pay 10% on the first $23,850 of taxable income, then 12% on earnings above that amount.

Important note: Some provisions aren't changing in 2025, including the $10,000 SALT deduction cap and the $2,000 Child Tax Credit. ⚖️



Cetera Advisor Networks LLC exclusively provides investment products and services through its representatives. Although Cetera does not provide tax or legal advice, or supervise tax, accounting or legal services, Cetera representatives may offer these services through their independent outside business. This information is not intended as tax or legal advice.

Source:

The IRS has adjusted tax brackets and dozens of other provisions for inflation. Here's how that will impact your taxes.

12/14/2024

Winter is (almost) here, and we've got you covered with the best places to visit in the United States. Whether you're looking for a snowy adventure or a sunny escape, there's something for everyone! We hope this guide helps you plan your perfect winter getaway!



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From ski resorts to beach towns, our list of the best places to go in the winter features top destinations around the United States.