Summit Financial Consulting

10/26/2026

Does the 'October Effect' spook you, or do you stick to your long-term strategy?

October has a reputation for more than Halloween.

Some of the biggest stock market crashes in history happened during this month, including the crash of 1929 and Black Monday in 1987.

That history helped create what's known as the "October Effect," the belief that stocks are more likely to crash in October.

But is there actually a pattern?

James C. Baldwin of Summit Financial Consulting explains why October's scary reputation doesn't necessarily reflect how the market performs.

Follow the team at Summit Financial Consulting for more tips.

10/24/2026

Disability Benefits and Taxes: Do You Need to File?

Do You Really Need to File a Tax Return? | Money Talks Ep 69

Full Episode: https://youtu.be/P54g71ov_8M

10/23/2026

Do Children Need to File Tax Returns?

Do You Really Need to File a Tax Return? | Money Talks Ep 69

Full Episode: https://youtu.be/P54g71ov_8M

10/22/2026

Roth IRA for Kids? 🤫 Big Tax Trap Alert! 🚨

Do You Really Need to File a Tax Return? | Money Talks Ep 69

Full Episode: https://youtu.be/P54g71ov_8M

10/22/2026

Together with Gradient Gives Back Foundation, we’re helping create brighter futures. Here’s what the program is all about:

✅ Supporting families in need
✅ Providing up to 12 months of housing payments
✅ Making a lasting impact in Sterling Heights, MI.

To nominate a family, visit summitgivesback.com.

10/21/2026

🎃🍁 WOW! What an incredible turnout for our 3rd Annual Fall Client Appreciation Event! 🍁🎃

What started as a fun way to celebrate our clients and their families has grown into one of our favorite traditions! This year, we welcomed 325 clients, family members, and friends to Glen Shepherd Park for an unforgettable afternoon of fall fun!

From the HUGE pumpkins and delicious food to the c***r, donuts, games, face painting, and balloon creations, there was something for everyone! 🌭🍩🎈

The best part was seeing so many familiar faces, meeting family members, watching the little ones have a blast, and simply enjoying time together outside the office.

We are truly blown away by the turnout and couldn't be more grateful for the wonderful people who make up the Summit family! 🧡

A HUGE thank you to everyone who joined us and to our amazing Summit team for making this event such a success!

We hope you enjoy the pictures and video, and wish you and your families a wonderful fall and a Happy Halloween! 🎃🍂

We can't wait to make next year even bigger and better!

👕 One last thing! We have a little outfit that was left behind at the event. It's a navy blue fleece pullover with yellow and white patterns, along with a yellow lemon-print bucket hat. If it belongs to your little one, please reach out to our office so we can get it back to you (picture of outfit below)! 😊

10/21/2026

Groceries aren't cheap. Neither is DoorDash. 🍽️

Between grocery bills, takeout, and delivery fees, feeding yourself or your family isn't exactly cheap these days.

But sometimes finding ways to save starts with looking at our everyday habits.

When asked about one way he saves money, Daniel Ladzinski of Summit Financial Consulting shared something that works for him: cooking at home.

It's not about giving up every convenience or finding one perfect way to save. It's about recognizing where small changes might make sense for your lifestyle and budget.

Follow the team at Summit Financial Consulting for more tips.

10/21/2026

Halloween Is Getting a Little Scarier 🎃

Remember when Halloween meant grabbing a costume, buying a big bag of candy, carving a pumpkin, and calling it a day?

Now you might find yourself looking twice at the receipt.

James D. Wink of Summit Financial Consulting shares why inflation isn't necessarily one big price increase. Sometimes it's a few extra dollars here and there that gradually add up.

And if you've switched from king-size candy bars to minis this year, no judgment. 🍬

It's a relatable reminder that inflation affects more than the headlines. It shows up in everyday spending, household budgets, and purchasing power.

Follow the team at Summit Financial Consulting for more tips.

10/19/2026

That Zillow Listing Doesn't Tell the Whole Story 🏡

Found a house you love? Before getting too attached to the listing price, there's another number worth paying attention to: the mortgage rate.

On a $320,000 mortgage, the difference between a hypothetical 5% and 7% interest rate could add more than $400 to your monthly principal and interest payment.

James C. Baldwin of Summit Financial Consulting walks through the numbers and explains why understanding the full cost of borrowing matters when buying a home.

Whether you're buying your first home or thinking about making a move, the monthly payment deserves just as much attention as the asking price.

Follow the team at Summit Financial Consulting for more tips.

10/15/2026

How do you know if you're choosing the right financial advisor?

Experience matters. Credentials matter. But neither tells the whole story.

Two financial advisors with similar qualifications may offer very different approaches to financial planning, communication, and client service.

In his latest article, Daniel Ladzinski, M.S., CFP®, CRPC®, AWMA®, MPAS™, explores what to consider when evaluating a financial advisor.

How do you find a good financial advisor? Explore credentials, experience, independence, fiduciary obligations, and what matters when choosing an advisor.