Brian Hennaman CFP®

The Pros and Cons of Buying an Annuity Retirement planning eventually shifts from one big question, “How much can I save?” to another: “How will I turn those savings into reliable income?” Annuities are one possible answer. They can provide…

Buying a home usually means applying for a brand-new mortgage with current interest rates. But in some situations, buyers have another option: taking over the seller’s existing mortgage. This type of financing is called an assumable mortgage. Understanding what is…

How does your financial picture compare to others your age? It’s a question many people ask themselves, whether they’re just starting their careers, raising a family, or preparing for retirement. Looking at net worth by age can provide useful context…

For many people approaching retirement, one question becomes increasingly important: Should you pay off your mortgage before retirement? After decades of making monthly payments, the idea of entering retirement debt-free can feel appealing. Without a mortgage, you may have lower…

Losing a spouse is one of the most difficult experiences a person can face. Along with the emotional impact, many widows suddenly find themselves making important financial decisions, including questions about Social Security. Understanding social security benefits for widows can…

Military families face unique financial decisions throughout their careers. Frequent moves, deployments, changing duty stations, and military retirement benefits can all affect long-term planning. One of the biggest questions service members ask is whether to save for retirement through the…

For many people, retirement is one of life’s biggest milestones. After decades of working, saving, and planning, the question eventually becomes: What age should you retire? The answer is different for everyone. Some people retire in their 50s, while others…

Reaching a $3 million retirement portfolio is a major financial milestone. For many people, it represents decades of saving, investing, and careful planning. But one question remains: How long will $3 million last in retirement? The answer depends on far…

Whether you’re a longtime resident, recently moved to Virginia, or are planning for retirement, understanding the state’s tax rules is an important part of managing your finances. Virginia imposes a state income tax on most forms of earned income, but…

Leaving a job is a major life event. Whether you’re changing careers, retiring early, starting a business, or taking time off, one important question often gets overlooked: What happens to 401(k) if you quit your job? The good news is…