Blog Posts & Insights

A couple walking along a path with the sun shining.

Insights

Our thinking, for the taking. Stay on top of your financial well-being with insights from McKinley Carter strategists and portfolio managers. Uncover the latest on the economy, investing and retiring, along with other timely ideas and information.

Filter and Search

Recent Insights

August 30, 2023 Wealth Management

Any Life Transition Can Be Handled If You Have This

Transitions — life is FULL of them. They can be planned or unexpected, but they are always "side-steps" in your journey of life. Which means, the way you handle them dictates if a transition becomes a mere speed bump to navigate or, conversely, an abyss that will swallow you if you allow it. What's the best asset to have to ensure your success with transition? Find out!

August 16, 2023 Retirement Plans

Connection to Future Self Is Key to Retirement Readiness

The relationship we forge with our future selves can greatly impact financial decision making in the present. Recent research revealed that subjects with a stronger connection to their future selves were more likely to delay gratification and make more prudent financial choices. But how can retirement plan sponsors help employees make the connection? Check out the "Future Self Tool" created by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

August 16, 2023 Retirement Plans

The Six Types of Fiduciaries in Retirement Plans You Need to Know

A retirement plan may have one or more fiduciaries who have distinct responsibilities, though many individuals and committees may serve in multiple fiduciary roles. Here is a brief overview of the categories of fiduciaries.

August 16, 2023 Retirement Plans

SECURE Act 2.0: Key Changes for 2024

With SECURE Act 2.0, there are a few mandatory changes taking effect in 2024 that retirement plan sponsors will need to comply with. These provisions require sponsors to work with their advisors, recordkeepers, and providers to develop a strategy for incorporating them into their plan design, as well as dealing with the cost implications that come with it. Also, learn about some Technical Corrections to SECURE 2.0 issued to the Treasury Department.

August 10, 2023 Risk Management

Do You Know the 80/20 Rule in Homeowners Insurance?

Have you heard of the 80/20 Rule? The 80% Rule is an insurance industry standard that stipulates policyholders must carry enough homeowners insurance to cover at least 80% of their home’s replacement cost. If a policyholder’s coverage falls below 80% of the home's replacement cost, the policyholder becomes a co-insurer in their loss, which can be a significant financial burden. Learn more

August 08, 2023 Wealth Management

5 Money-Saving Tips for Freshmen Navigating the College Bookstore

College is expensive, but the bookstore is one area where you can cut costs. Here are five money-saving tips for college freshmen navigating the bookstore.

All Insights

What's On Our Mind Right Now

Fundamentals

Wealth Management

Introducing The SAVVY: Financial Education Just for Women

At McKinley Carter, we recognize we are uniquely situated to help women “do better” with their money. We are so proud to announce the launch of The Savvy – A Society of Women Pursuing Their Ideal Life. The Savvy will bring real world financial tips, insights, and education directly to the women we serve through digital communications, in-person events, and one-on-one conversations. Learn what's coming in 2023 and beyond to help women better embrace their relationship with money.

Nonprofits

SECURE Act 2.0’s Enhancements for the Charitably Minded

Chatter abounds in the world of finance law since the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act 2.0 became law on December 29, 2022. Built upon the work that was started in the original SECURE Act of 2019, the sequel creates further enhancements that impact how individuals and families may prepare for the lives they envision in retirement, as well as how they navigate that dream once it is achieved.

Among the enhancements introduced in the bill are additional benefits for those retirees who are engaged in giving back to their communities through charitable gifts. Here are some new considerations that may help you increase the impact of your charitable donations.

Risk Management

Medicare: Have You Overlooked Your Choices?

Two years ago I turned 65 and had to select a Medicare Plan. There are several levels of options that must be chosen and they can be very confusing. Keep in mind I have my insurance license and it still took me about two weeks to research and make a final decision. Learn more from my experience to determine if you may have overlooked your Medicare choices.

Wealth Management

Purpose: The Missing Piece in Your Plan to Retire

For those preparing for retirement, it is an exciting time. You have planned and worked hard to get to to this point, building your identity in your community, making friends, and making a difference in the world around you. However, when retirement is finally achieved, it can often create a sudden void that can be difficult to fill. It's very important to think through ways to find purpose during your retirement years. Here are five ways to help you do just that!