Understanding Today’s Financial Environment
Welcome, I’m Michael Hammen, a financial professional and owner of Advantage Financial & Tax Services in West Des Moines, IA. We understand that individuals and households face increasingly complex financial challenges as we navigate our way through life.
A few questions you may have. For example:
Are we saving enough for retirement? How does retirement savings impact my tax situation? How much can I save each year? What can I expect to receive at retirment in the form of income? How can I save on my income taxes each year? Can I save for my kids/grandkids college expenses? How much life insurance do I need? and other simular questions.
Our professionals have years of experience in financial services. We can help answer many of those questions, and assist you moving forward.
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TIPS for Inflation
If you are concerned about inflation and expect short-term interest rates may increase, TIPS could be worth considering.
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In the face of divorce, making changes to insurance coverage may be overlooked.
The Economic Journey of Your Morning Coffee
Few contemplate the complex journey that brought their coffee from farm to kitchen table.
Money Draining Food Myths
These food myths will really put a drain on your wallet.
Understanding the Basics of Medigap Policies
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All Muni Bonds Are Not Created Equal
Gaining a better understanding of municipal bonds makes more sense than ever.
Insuring Your Business Against Cyber Liability
90% of small businesses in the U.S. don't protect their data from cyber attacks. Is your business at risk?
How Income Taxes Work
A quick look at how federal income taxes work.
How to Appeal Your Property Taxes
For homeowners who think their property taxes are too high, there are ways to appeal.
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How Much Home Can I Afford?
With a few simple inputs you can estimate how much of a mortgage you may be able to obtain.
Should I Pay Off Debt or Invest?
This calculator will help determine whether you should invest funds or pay down debt.
What Is the Dividend Yield?
This calculator helps determine your pre-tax and after-tax dividend yield on a particular stock.
Potential Income from an IRA
Estimate your monthly and annual income from various IRA types.
A Look at Systematic Withdrawals
This calculator may help you estimate how long funds may last given regular withdrawals.
Long-Term-Care Needs
Determine your potential long-term care needs and how long your current assets might last.
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Long-Term-Care Protection Strategies
The chances of needing long-term care, its cost, and strategies for covering that cost.
Managing Your Lifestyle
Using smart management to get more of what you want and free up assets to invest.
Investment Strategies for Retirement
Investment tools and strategies that can enable you to pursue your retirement goals.
An Inside Look at Retirement Living
A number of questions and concerns need to be addressed to help you better prepare for retirement living.
Your Cash Flow Statement
A presentation about managing money: using it, saving it, and even getting credit.
Principles of Preserving Wealth
How federal estate taxes work, plus estate management documents and tactics.
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It May Be Time for a Financial Checkup
It’s never a bad time to speak with your financial advisor about changes in your situation.
Consider These 3 Things Before Driving Off the Lot
There are a few things to consider when buying or leasing your next vehicle.
To Buy or Not to Buy
The decision whether to buy or rent a home may have long-term implications.
When Do You Need a Will?
When do you need a will? The answer is easy: Right Now.
Inflation and Your Portfolio
Even low inflation rates can pose a threat to investment returns.
Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder
Agent Jane Bond is on the case, uncovering the mystery of bond laddering.