Learn about the risks of not having health insurance in this informative article.

When uninsured people end up in the hospital, “sticker shock” can follow. Just a quick look at the current prices for medical procedures can be sobering.

How much does a CT scan cost? Between $300-$7,000, depending on where it is performed. Need a stent in your heart? The cost of that delicate procedure can cost between $20,000-$60,000. How about a knee replacement? The total cost adds up to an average of $25,000.1,2,3

Are these the only costs associated with a hospital or outpatient visit? Not quite. Think of the cost of the room, the medications, the anesthesia. Fortunately, many Americans have health coverage, so they only have to pay a fraction of the expenses linked to these and other procedures. Those without health coverage may find themselves in financial pain.

These days, you may take a big financial risk if you go without health insurance. Just one accident, one surprise trip to the hospital, and you may be left with a debt rivaling an auto loan.

If you need to pay for your own health coverage, the cost may be well worth it. Imagining that you can go without it for the next five or ten years may not be realistic, even if you are a millennial or a member of Generation Z just leaving college. You might have a five-figure debt already; could you handle another one, perhaps with little or no warning?

Just how much does it cost to self-insure? Well, here is one estimate. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF), the average cost of a benchmark Silver health insurance plan for 2025 is $625 per month. That works out to $7,500 for a year. From 2025 to 2026, average health insurance premiums rose 21% nationwide. As for subsidies, the average Marketplace premium after tax credits is projected to be $50 per month for the lowest-cost plan in 2026 for eligible enrollees, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.4,5,6

You can choose to put off paying a few thousand dollars a year for health insurance, but in doing so, you are also choosing to assume a great financial risk. A major medical procedure can cost as much as a new car, or a college education.

Keep in mind this article is for informational purposes only. It’s not a replacement for real-life advice, so make sure to consult your financial or healthcare professional before modifying your insurance strategy.

If you are uninsured, take some time to look at your choices with someone who knows the insurance market. Do it today, as you never know what tomorrow could bring.

1. Bettercare.com, April 11, 2025
2. BillKarma.app, April 5, 2026
3. CareCostIndex.com, April 16, 2026
4. HealthSystemTracker.org January 14, 2026
5. CMS.gov April 10, 2026
6.ValuePenguin.com January 26, 2026
The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

Understanding the value of a home warranty.

As a consumer, when you purchase an expensive item, like a car or refrigerator, you expect to receive a warranty that the manufacturer will repair or replace that product if it breaks down.

A warranty makes sense for big-ticket purchases, but what about for a home?

An Overview of Home Warranties

A home warranty typically covers the repairs on specific items in a home, such as heating and air conditioning systems, plumbing, and built-in appliances.1

A home warranty on a newly built home may be offered by the homebuilder and may cover up to 10 years on structural defects; one year on items like walls and paint; and two years for HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems. Appliances may only be covered for six months. Typically, the cost of this policy is contained in the price of the home.

A home warranty on an existing home can also be purchased, usually paid for by the seller or real estate agent to facilitate the sale of a house. These policies tend to have coverage lasting no longer than one year.

Occasionally, a home buyer may choose to purchase a policy, for instance, in the case of buying a foreclosure.

Be Realistic

You should understand the limits to which a home warranty can protect you. A home warranty promises you that certain items will remain functional; it does not promise you a new appliance or furnace.

Though it may be comforting to know repairs are covered, a warranty may restrict the contractors you can use to do the repair work.

A home warranty may be most beneficial to someone who will be purchasing an older home.

If you elect to buy a home warranty, make sure you work with a reputable company that has a long-standing record in your local area. And as always, be sure to comparison shop.

1. Several factors will affect the cost of a home warranty policy, including the size, location, and contents in the home. Any guarantees associated with a home warranty policy are dependent on the ability of the issuing company to continue making claim payments.
The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

Determining the value of your estate, or for someone who has passed away, can be a complex undertaking.

Determining the value of an estate is a fundamental first step in estate management and a critical requirement for settling a decedent’s estate.1

How to Assess the Value of an Estate

  1. Select the date of calculation. Because values move up and down, you need to set a specific date for a valuation. For a living person, you are free to pick any date. If you’re assessing the value of a decedent’s estate, you may choose either the date of death or the date six months after their death (the “Alternate Valuation Date”). If you use the Alternate Valuation Date, any asset sold or distributed during the first six months following the death must be valued as of the date of sale or distribution.2
  2. Determine the assets comprising the estate. This asset list should include everything an individual owns or has ownership interests in.
  3. Gather all financial statements as of the date of calculation. If an account is owned individually, the entire value should be calculated in the estate. If owned jointly with a spouse who has rights of survivorship, then 50 percent of the value should be included.
    Remember to:
    -Deduct any outstanding mortgage balance.
    -Include life insurance when the policy owner is the deceased individual or the beneficiary is the decedent’s estate.3
  4. Calculate deductions. Subtract any debts from the total value of assets. For the decedent, this may also include any regular bills that may be due (e.g., utilities, medical expenses, etc.), charitable gifts, and state tax obligations.

Assessing the precise value of an estate can be complicated, especially when settling an estate. Please consult a professional with estate expertise regarding your individual situation.

1. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation.
2. Investopedia.com, April 19, 2025. The article assumes the deceased has a valid will and has named an executor who is responsible for carrying out the directions of the will. If a person dies intestate, it means that a valid will has not been executed. Without a valid will, a person’s property will be distributed to the heirs as defined by the state law.
3. Several factors will affect the cost and availability of life insurance, including age, health, and the type and amount of insurance purchased. Life insurance policies have expenses, including mortality and other charges. If a policy is surrendered prematurely, the policyholder also may pay surrender charges and have income tax implications. You should consider determining whether you are insurable before implementing a strategy involving life insurance. Any guarantees associated with a policy are dependent on the ability of the issuing insurance company to continue making claim payments.
The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

Review your legacy approach regularly, particularly following significant life events or legislative updates.

Once an estate strategy is in place, it should only require periodic reviews to check that it still reflects your wishes. However, life events such as marriage, divorce, births, deaths, relocations, health changes, business sales, and changes in tax law may prompt you to reconsider part of your overall strategy.

The world of estate strategies is changing, as covered in the Trust & Will 2025 Estate Planning Report. Did you know:

  • While 83 percent of Americans acknowledge the importance of their estate, only 31 percent have established a will.1
  • Almost one in four Millennials and Gen Zers prefer trusted friends or professionals over family members, selecting them as executors and guardians.1
  • Financial anxiety, as 49 percent of Americans are more worried about their economic future than they were a year ago.1
  • Inflation, with 78 percent of Americans reporting that it has made pursuing their life goals more difficult.1

These statistics underscore the need for everyone, regardless of their economic level, to maintain an estate strategy that reflects their current needs.

Here are some general guidelines, although everyone has unique financial circumstances. You might want to update your strategy in case of:

  • Marriage or divorce within your family or heirs
  • Births, adoptions, and deaths
  • Any relocation, especially if you’re contemplating a move to another state, as laws might have subtle differences

Here are some other reasons to update your estate strategy:

  • You’re experiencing a health change
  • You are considering the sale of a business and want to update how the assets will be handled in your estate strategy
  • Changes in federal tax law
  • Changes in state tax law, including inheritance tax law
  • You have decided to change your beneficiaries

If it’s been a while, are you confident that your estate strategy proactively addresses potential challenges, seizes new opportunities, and optimizes the distribution of your assets according to your wishes? Many individuals will hold a family meeting to explain the estate’s structure and their decisions regarding it.

Estates are complicated. Getting started with online tools can be a great first step. But you might want to work with an estate professional who can ask you tough questions.

1. Trust & Will 2025 Estate Planning Report, 2025.
The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

An article about meditation, mindfulness, and financial well-being.

In today’s fast-paced world, financial stress has become a part of life for some. The anxiety and pressure associated with money matters can create a vicious cycle, affecting both mental and physical health. However, there may be a pathway through this chaos: mindfulness and meditation. These ancient practices not only offer a chance to reflect but also may provide a more straightforward approach to financial decision-making, which could foster long-term financial wellness.1,2

What is the Connection Between Financial Stress and Mental/Physical Health?

Financial stress is a source of anxiety for some, impacting sleep, relationships, and overall well-being. According to the most recent Stress in America survey by the American Psychological Association, a majority of adults identified inflation, the economy, and financial concerns as sources of stress. Chronic financial stress can lead to health problems. Individuals experiencing financial strain often neglect preventive health measures due to cost, which can exacerbate their physical health issues.3

Tools for Managing Financial Anxiety

Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present and engaged in the moment, without judgment. It involves tuning into experiences, focusing on the present, and observing thoughts and feelings without reacting to them. When applied to finances, mindfulness encourages people to be aware of their spending habits and emotional triggers, aligning their financial actions with their values and goals, which can lead to more satisfying and sustainable economic health.

Meditation, often practiced alongside mindfulness, involves sitting quietly and paying attention to thoughts, sounds, and bodily sensations. Integrating meditation into daily routines might help manage stress and enhance concentration, providing a valuable refuge for people dealing with financial stress. Just a few minutes a day might help clear the mind, improve focus, and manage anxiety, enabling the handling of monetary matters with a calm, composed mind.

Practical Ways to Include These Practices:

  1. Daily Meditation: Start with five minutes a day in a peaceful spot, focusing on your breath. If financial worries arise, gently redirect your attention back to your breathing.
  2. Mindful Budgeting: Before making financial decisions, pause and assess your motivations. Are you adhering to a budget, or are emotions influencing your choices? This practice can help avoid unnecessary expenses.
  3. Reflective Journaling: Maintain a journal documenting your financial decisions and the emotions they evoke. This exercise can help reveal patterns and triggers in your spending habits, aiding in more effective financial management.
  4. Educational Workshops: Some communities offer free stress management workshops, equipping individuals with tools and knowledge to help with financial management.

Mindfulness and Meditation in Action

Consider a scenario where mindfulness helps combat impulse purchases. By staying present and aware, individuals can make values-based financial choices rather than succumb to the allure of FOMO (fear of missing out) or unhealthy comparisons. Similarly, meditation can be invaluable during life transitions, such as career changes or retirement, helping manage financial issues with more clarity and composure.

How Mindfulness Works

Mindfulness works by dialing down the body’s stress response, which can impair the immune system and exacerbate health problems. By influencing stress pathways in the brain, mindfulness changes brain structures and activity related to attention and emotion regulation. This shift can enable individuals to respond more effectively to stress, including financial stress, by cultivating a more open and less reactive mindset.

How Does One Get Started?

Learning mindfulness is more accessible than ever, with classes and interventions available in various settings, including online platforms and smartphone apps. While it may take time for mindfulness meditation to feel natural, consistent practice can transform it into a powerful tool for relieving stress and enhancing overall well-being.
Embracing mindfulness and meditation doesn’t entirely eliminate financial challenges, but these practices can provide a robust framework for managing financial stress more healthily and productively. They empower individuals to make thoughtful decisions and ultimately gain control over their financial well-being. Start small, be consistent, and watch as mindfulness and meditation transform your financial life and beyond.

1. American Psychological Association, October 30, 2019
2. First Commonwealth Federal Credit Union, November 25, 2025
3. Headspace.com, January 13, 2025
The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

Use this handy calendar to remember the year’s most important financial dates.

JANUARY: Get ready for a brand new year.

  • Write down the major financial events you anticipate in the next few years. That will help guide a discussion about whether your portfolio reflects your short- and long-term goals.
  • Update your personal net worth to account for any significant changes in the past year.
  • Double-check your employer-sponsored retirement plans. When determining how much to contribute, make certain to check whether your employer offers a matching program.

FEBRUARY: This month, don’t forget your financial check-up.

  • Take a moment to check on your various insurance programs and coverage amounts. Draw up a list of questions if you believe they no longer reflect your lifestyle.
  • Create a list of your top-three major expenses scheduled for the year.
  • Take a minute and create a list of your monthly subscription services.

MARCH: Spring into spring.

  • You should have received most of your tax documents by now. Start organizing your important documents so you can complete your federal and state returns.
  • Check your credit report. All U.S. Citizens are entitled to a free copy of their credit report every 12 months from the national credit reporting agencies.

APRIL: Tax time is the right time.

  • Tax returns are typically due before midnight of April 15. If you need to request a six-month extension, you still need to pay any taxes due by April 15.
  • April 15 is also the last day to contribute to most retirement accounts for the prior year.
  • Don’t forget that first-quarter estimated income tax payments are due by April 15.

MAY: It’s summertime, and financial prep is easy

  • Create or update your home and personal property inventory. Use your phone and reliable digital-backup service to record and store videos of your valuable possessions.
  • Take a look at your estate strategy, and see if it continues to reflect your family’s wishes. Were there any marriages or divorces in the past year? Did your family welcome a new child or grandchild?

JUNE: We’re halfway to next year.

  • Take a look at your “sources and uses” of money. Is it what you expected, or are you considering making adjustments?
  • Don’t forget second-quarter estimated income tax payments are due by June 15.

JULY: Review the year so far.

  • Refresh your money skills. Add at least one book on personal finance, economics, or investing to your summer reading list.
  • Look back at the last 6 months. Are there any financial takeaways you can apply to the remainder of the year?

AUGUST: It’s time to go back to school.

  • As children or grandchildren get ready for school, create a strategy to help pay for the expenses. There are a number of educational funding choices, and one may be a fit for your situation.

SEPTEMBER: Sweater weather has arrived.

  • Most companies begin “open enrollment” for their insurance plans in the following months. Prepare now by looking at your current health plan and considering whether it meets your needs. Open enrollment for Medicare starts in November.
  • Check your credit card benefits and points earned. With holidays around the corner, you may be due a deal.
  • Don’t forget third-quarter estimated income tax payments are due by September 15.

OCTOBER: Don’t forget to prepare for trick-or-treaters.

  • If you have children off to college next year, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) window opens once again on October 1. Encourage your child to complete the FAFSA as early as possible to increase their chances at available scholarships and grants.
  • File your income tax return by October 15 if you requested a six-month extension back in April.
  • If you want to establish a retirement plan outside of your work-sponsored program, you must open the account by your tax filing deadline plus any extensions, which is October 15 for most.
  • Medicare open enrollment begins, providing your opportunity to drop or switch plan coverage.

NOVEMBER: The perfect month to give thanks.

  • Review your charitable giving and update any funding strategies, if needed.
  • Watch for capital gains payouts. Investment companies typically distribute capital gains in December, and by November, they usually publish estimates of their distributions.
  • Healthcare.gov open enrollment begins, Medicare Part A and B premiums and deductibles announced.

DECEMBER: End the year full of ope and goodwill.

  • If you’re 73 or older, don’t forget to take your annual required minimum distribution (RMD) by December 31.
  • You can request an annual Social Security Statement. Compare your earnings record against your old tax returns for accuracy. This is also an excellent time to check for other irregularities to prevent identity theft.
The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG, LLC, is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.
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