Money Mentors

The Most Stressful Jobs (and How to Say Goodbye to the Stress!)

The list is out on this year's most stressful jobs...is yours on it? Find out on this week's episode. Gary and Laurel discuss how to approach retirement if you've had enough. We'll also explain why more workers are sticking with their jobs, even into their 70's and 80's. No matter when you decide to retire, we're here to be that resource for you. Connect anytime at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

Where Are Interest Rates Headed in 2024?

Wall Street's been hyper-focused on the Fed headed into the New Year. This week, Gary & Laurel discuss what's ahead for interest rates and why it matters to you. There's also a new survey that shows the average Michigan worker retires at 62. If that's you, what do you need to think about before making the decision to retire that young? Check out more retirement resources at www.MattsonFinancial.com.  

Good Debt vs. Bad Debt

It may be tempting to charge purchases for Christmas or other big occasions, but when it comes to debt, what's good and what's bad? Gary & Laurel discuss that this week - plus, the changes that are coming to student aid forms. Learn how your income as a parent or grandparent could impact what your kids or grandkids qualify for when it comes to college grants & loans. Have a question for your Money Mentors? Drop us an e-mail at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

Getting the Max Out of Social Security

Ever wonder how you could get the maximum benefits out of Social Security in retirement? On this week's episode, Laurel dives into what it would take to get the biggest monthly check possible (and it's not easy). Need some help with your Social Security decisions? Get a full-blown retirement check-up by setting up a chat at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

Planning for Christmas Splurges

Wondering how your Christmas spending stacks up with others? We'll tell you what the average shopper is spending this holiday season, plus offer some tips on how to budget for holiday spending in your financial plan with Gary Mattson of Mattson Financial Services. Check out more of our retirement resources over the holidays at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

A Quick Financial Year-End To-Do List

The clock's ticking on 2023, but there's still time to make a few year-end financial moves to set yourself up for a better 2024, especially tax-wise. Listen this week as Gary & Laurel walk you through a few steps, including some you can do on your own. And you have to hear this week's story about an unlikely millionaire who gave his town a special gift this holiday season. Find more year-end resources now at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

The Importance of Reading the Fine Print

A couple of stories in the headlines this week remind us to always read the fine print - whether it's a buyout offer, a "dream" vacation deal or any other investment. Gary & Laurel explain what to look for. Plus, a Vanguard report tells us the single biggest factor in a successful retirement. Whether it's understanding the fine print or building a plan that helps you sustain your retirement lifestyle, we're here to help at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

Taking Advantage of Higher Interest Rates for Retirement

The Federal Reserve is hinting that interest rates may stay at these levels for awhile. And while it may be a negative for those with debt, it can be a positive for savers. This week, Gary explains how to take advantage of higher rates while they last. Plus, we'll discuss why wealthy investors are turning more toward financial advisors. Connect with your Money Mentors at Mattson Financial Services for more lessons at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

The Tough Retirement Conversations

This week, Gary & Laurel share the very personal side of a family dilemma they're facing as Gary's mom gets older. We'll also discuss the tougher decisions that may come along for you in retirement, and how to address them. Whether it's a health crisis, protecting your assets or talking about these topics with your kids and grandkids, we're here to help. Connect to chat with us at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

Medicare & Marketplace Roundup with Matt

Medicare premiums are set to go up in 2024 for most retirees. Our resident Medicare expert, Matthew Saidla, fills us in on this week's episode. Plus, we'll discuss healthcare options if you're not 65 yet, such as the Marketplace or COBRA. Have questions? Set up a complimentary consultation in Grand Rapids with Matt at www.MattsonFinancial.com. Just click on Health Services.