Rick Brooks
Rick Brooks's Latest Posts
Don’t Let Your Digital Assets Disappear: Estate Planning for Crypto, Photos, Music and More
A Google search suggested that approximately one trillion dollars of crypto currency assets have been lost, either to theft or lost passwords. In the digital age, your estate isn’t just real property and bank accounts—it also includes your online world: photos in iCloud, email and cloud files, subscription accounts, and cryptocurrency. Without clear instructions, these […]
A Falling Dollar Impacts Consumers First
But it isn’t all bad. Currency markets tend to feel distant from daily life. Exchange rates move quietly in the background, tracked by traders and economists, not households. But when the U.S. dollar weakens, the effects don’t stay confined to financial charts. They show up first—and most clearly—in everyday decisions about what to buy, where […]
Life Insurance for Empty Nesters: Smart Pre-Retirement Planning Tips
As your kids grow up and move out, your financial priorities shift. The mortgage may be nearly paid off, college tuition is hopefully behind you, and you’re thinking about retirement. But what about life insurance? Do you still need it? Let’s break it down. Do I Still Need Life Insurance After My Kids Move Out? […]
5 Smart Retirement Planning Moves to Make Before Year-End
As the end of the year draws closer, it is a natural time to reflect and prepare, for the year ahead. Thoughtful year-end planning can help you feel confident about your financial future. Here are some steps you can take this year to make the most of your retirement planning. If you are still working, consider […]
Seven Financial Habits to Stay Wealthy Why Rich People Rarely “Act Rich”—And What They Do Instead
A friend recently told me that his ex-wife needed some money. When he asked her why, she said it was because her credit cards were maxed out and she needed the money to pay bills. When he asked her how that happened, she replied, “If you want to be rich, you’ve got to act rich.” […]
Retirement Planning Isn’t a One-Time Project: Here’s Why You Need Ongoing Support
When it comes to preparing for retirement, many people think of it as a box to check off. You meet with a financial advisor, create a plan, and then you’re done—right? Not quite. Retirement planning isn’t a one-time project. It’s an ongoing process that needs adjusting as your life, the markets, and your priorities evolve. […]
Auto Insurance and Delivery Driving
Delivery driving, whether for pizza shops or gig platforms, involves unique insurance risks that most personal auto policies do not cover. Personal use auto insurance typically will not cover business use of a car for things like delivering pizzas. Commercial auto insurance is required for anyone using their vehicle for business purposes, including food delivery. […]
Nine Important Retirement Milestones (Starting at Age 50)
I’m continuing the topic of properly preparing for retirement this month. Most people don’t really start thinking about retirement at age 50, but there are a few things you should be doing to set yourself up early for a comfortable and secure retirement. Age 50: Catch-Up Contributions Begin At age 50, you can start making […]
10 Essential Steps for a Smooth Transition to Retirement
A good friend of mine was recently forced into early retirement by changes at the Federal agency where he worked. Retirement is a major life milestone that requires thoughtful planning and preparation, so I wanted to write about how to properly prepare for such an important change. To ensure a smooth transition, it’s essential to […]
When to Make a Homeowners Insurance Claim: A Comprehensive Guide
Filing a homeowners insurance claim is a critical decision that requires careful consideration. While insurance is designed to protect you financially in times of need, not every incident warrants a claim. Understanding when to file can save you money, preserve your claims history, and ensure you’re making the most of your coverage. Assessing the Situation […]
