You are just about to drift off, and it happens - the" What If Monster" is here with a nagging yet crucial question - What if my adult children need financial help? The cost of living is at an all-time high, and no parent wants to see their child struggling. Unexpected medical bills, job loss, student debt, and rising costs can lead even the most independent people to need occasional help. With 50% of parents assisting adult children, there is a strong urge to step in. However, before you invite the "What If Monster" to keep you up at night, let's discuss approaching this delicate situation with heart and clarity that protects your financial future.

It's Normal to Want to Help, But It's Okay to Set Boundaries

It's natural to want to help when your child has difficulties. However, you must think about your financial future. By allowing your adult child to foster their economic independence through budgeting and setting clear expectations, you can provide them with the assistance they need while setting boundaries.

Start With a Conversation, Not a Check

You don't have to immediately reach for your checkbook the second your child asks for monetary assistance. Pause first and try to understand their situation.

Is This a One-Time Emergency or a Recurring Issue?

Sit down with your child and ask them questions. Did an unexpected emergency come up, or will they need financial help every month? Ask them to explain the situation. Did their car break down, or will they need help paying their rent every month? Subtly explain the difference between a one-time emergency and a recurring issue. While just about everyone has the occasional unexpected expense, a recurring issue is the first indication that your child may be living above their means.

Are They Looking for a Short-Term Loan, a Gift, or Advice?

Find out what your child's expectations are. Do they plan on paying the money back within a few weeks, or do they consider the funds a gift? Maybe your adult child isn't asking for money, but they just need some better advice on managing their finances. You not only have to think about what is right for them, but yourself as well. Remember that gifts of $18,000 or less per recipient fall under the annual "gift exclusion" for tax purposes .If your gift exceeds that, it must be reported to the IRS. When it comes to loans, even between family members, the IRS mandates that any loan between family members be made with a signed written agreement, a fixed repayment schedule, and a minimum interest rate.

What's the Long-Term Plan for Getting Back on Their Feet?

An honest, judgment-free conversation can help you determine the best, most sustainable way to assist—without enabling unhealthy patterns or draining your resources. Don't be afraid to ask your child what their long-term plans are. It's easy for adult children to assume their parents have unlimited funds. However, you know that this is not the case. Is your child planning on restructuring their finances so that they can get back on their feet? Perhaps he or she is looking for a side job or finding ways to cut back on unnecessary costs like refinancing a car loan, consolidating debt, or shopping around for better deals on required services.

Ask Yourself: Can I Afford to Help?

Helping shouldn't come at the cost of your financial security. Here are some eye-opening questions to get you started:

• How will helping them affect your retirement plan, 401(K), or emergency savings?
• Are you dipping into funds meant for long-term goals, healthcare needs, or other necessities?
• Do you have other children to support or responsibilities to balance, and don't want to get behind on your bills?

The golden rule: Don't sacrifice your financial future to fix someone else's present. A trusted financial advisor can help you assess what's realistic and healthy for both sides.

Ways to Help Without Writing a Blank Check

You don't always have to hand money over. There are other ways to help. Consider these thoughtful, strategic alternatives:

• Offer to cover a specific expense - Perhaps you can pay this month's rent or buy groceries this week rather than just giving a random amount.
• Help create a budget or financial plan - This helps with economic independence.
• Co-sign with caution. Know the risks if you're asked to co-sign a loan. Read and understand the terms, and make sure your child will be able to make payments.
• Gift wisely - Use annual gift tax exclusions and document everything clearly.
• Connect them with a financial advisor - This guides them toward sustainable decisions.

Strengthen Your Financial Future: Keep the What-if Monster Quiet With a Plan

Every parent wants to help their children, but you must do so without risking your peace of mind. The best way to quiet the "What If Monster" is with a thoughtful, proactive plan that considers your goals, protects your financial future, and offers the support your children may need.

If you've been thinking about what will happen if your adult child needs monetary assistance, we're here to help you explore the right approach. Raymond James and its advisors do not offer tax or legal advice. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional. We can help you plan how to structure financial gifts, adjust your retirement strategy, or set expectations. We can work together to find a path that supports everyone - eliminating those sleepless nights.

At Crossleyshear, we dedicate ourselves to helping you learn how to support your family while staying secure in your own future. Contact us today for more information.

Any opinions are those of Dale Crossley and Evan Shear and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Expressions of opinion are as of this date and are subject to change without notice. There is no guarantee that these statements, opinions, or forecasts provided in the attached article will prove to be correct. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy selected, including asset allocation and diversification.

Raymond James and its advisors do not offer tax or legal advice. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional.

Right now, the 'What-if Monster' is tariffs.These import duties have hit the news lately, with the U.S. frequently inflicting and then removing (and then inflicting again) these taxes. This has led to uncertainty and a fear of what these levies might do to the economy. Let's break down what tariffs are, their potential impact, and what you can do to stay financially confident.

What Are Tariffs, and Why Do They Matter?

A tariff is a tax imposed on imported goods. It is typically a percentage of the good's value, which can be very high. Governments may use import taxes to encourage and support domestic production, protect a specific industry, or as a negotiating tool. These levies may apply broadly or be restricted to a specific product or country.

They do have strategic purposes, but can also trigger some problems, including:

1. Higher costs for consumers. The country of origin doesn’t pay the tariff—the importer does, and these costs are often passed on to consumers. It doesn't mean that a 25% tariff results in a 25% increase in cost; it depends on various factors, and the price increase can be lower or higher.
2. Disruptions in supply chains. Tariffs also affect the cost of components used in manufacturing, potentially disrupting supply chains. Typically, a country will retaliate against the impact of tariffs by levying its own, which can become a real issue if a part crosses the border and the final product crosses. Companies may try to source from areas unaffected by the tax, but their costs may increase and slow down shipping.
3. Market volatility. They induce uncertainty and can easily result in fluctuations in the stock market, affecting the value of investments.
4. Economic slowdown. Extended tariffs, reciprocal tariffs, or all-out trade wars can slow or even reverse economic growth, causing issues for everyone. These can also cause manufacturers to leave the country, resulting in job losses.

Should You Be Concerned About the Impact of Tariffs?

These taxes can be scary, and uncertainty about these fees can be even worse. The impact of tariffs in the past has been highly variable, depending on how they are implemented and how businesses and governments respond.

In the past, markets have adjusted over time, resulting in only short-term disruptions. You should not think about them when investing for the long term, thinking of these points:

1. Markets have weathered similar policies before. The broader economy will adapt, although inflation may have a long-term impact.
2. Diversify to mitigate risk. The more diverse and balanced your portfolio is, the less it will be affected by any policy change or global event.
3. Consumer demand and business innovation play an essential role in adapting to tariff changes. Companies change supply chains, develop alternative strategies, and adjust pricing to stay profitable.

The impact of tariffs may also be short-term if they are used in negotiation. These taxes might be placed for a few days or weeks and then removed.

Keeping the "What-if Monster" Quiet

Don't let fear drive your decisions. Focus on the long-term and keep your investments diverse. Avoid making rushed decisions based on short-term tariff impacts. Instead, mitigate risk by maintaining a well-diversified portfolio.

Economic policies, including tariffs, will constantly shift over time. A diverse portfolio can weather any of these storms, so make sure you are using a sound investment strategy so the "What-if Monster" doesn't keep you up at night.

If you are worried about the impact of tariffs on your portfolio and financial plan, contact CrossleyShear today. Let us review your portfolio and help you adjust things so you can navigate the current economic uncertainty and maintain financial security in the long term.

Any opinions are those of Dale Crossley and Evan Shear and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Expressions of opinion are as of this date and are subject to change without notice. There is no guarantee that these statements, opinions, or forecasts provided in the attached article will prove to be correct. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy selected, including asset allocation and diversification. 

When planning for your retirement, there are two types of independent retirement accounts (IRAs). A traditional IRA receives pre-tax income, and you are taxed when you withdraw or receive distributions later on. You are also taxed on any accumulated funds from interest and investments, as income tax is applied to any funds removed from the IRA.

A Roth IRA receives post-tax money, so withdrawals and distributions are neither taxed nor treated like income for your income tax bracket.  Many would prefer to use a Roth IRA to control tax, revenue, and earnings. Especially since you can withdraw anytime, and there are no mandatory minimum distributions after retirement age. However, with the income bracket limitation, Roth IRAs are typically unavailable to individuals or spouses with an income that is too high.

Fortunately, there is a way around it called a backdoor Roth IRA.

What Is a Backdoor Roth IRA?

A "backdoor" Roth IRA allows you to transfer the balance of a traditional IRA or 401(k) to a Roth IRA without consideration for the income level restriction. This will enable people and couples with a high-income bracket to access the financial conveniences of a Roth IRA, even if your annual income is above the restricted level.

• 2024 Roth IRA income limitations are $146,000 for single filers and $230,000 for married couples filing jointly.
• 2025 Roth IRA income limitations are $150,000 for single filers and $236,000 for married couples filing jointly.

You will pay taxes on any pre-tax funds from the traditional IRA. However, as soon as your IRA funds become part of a Roth IRA, you can manage your principal, interest, and earnings in the Roth fashion without a traditional IRA's unique limitations and requirements.

Why Pursue a Backdoor Roth IRA?

• Interest and Investment Earnings
  • With a traditional IRA, earnings from interest and investments are taxed as income when distributed because the principle is pre-tax. Once the funds have entered a Roth IRA, your earnings grow tax free.
• 5 Year Access
  • Five years after you convert an IRA to a Roth IRA, you have full access to your funds without an age or distribution limitation. If the timing is right, this can also mean earlier access to IRA funds before your retirement age.
• No Mandatory Minimum Distributions
  • A Roth IRA does not have mandatory minimum distributions, so you can conserve or withdraw as you see fit for the duration of your life.
• Lesser Tax Burden
  • In general, paying one-time taxes on IRA income converted to a Roth IRA results in a lower overall tax burden than paying income tax on the IRA distributions later on.

Tax Pitfalls to Watch Out For

One of the most important things to be aware of is the potential for mistakes when performing this complex tax-related financial maneuver. Using a backdoor Roth IRA can benefit your long-term financial planning, but you'll want to do it right and avoid possible pitfalls.

• Income Tax on Transfer
  • Remember that all pre-tax funds removed from an IRA or 401(k) will go through a tax cycle during the transfer.
• Income Bracket
  • This transfer can change your income tax bracket.
• IRA Capital Gains
  • Transfer sooner rather than later to reduce the tax burden on IRA capital gains regarding interest and investments.
• One-Time Conversion
  • The backdoor Roth IRA transfer is not a one-time thing. Continue to make routine conversions to minimize taxed earnings.

Consult With Your Financial Advisor

To get the best tax advantage and control over your retirement finances, plan your backdoor Roth IRA conversion with the help of your skilled financial advisor. We are proud to provide insight and a detailed understanding of retirement financial management to help you achieve this unique and beneficial maneuver and get the most from your retirement plans. Contact us today to explore the best financial strategies for your retirement.

Any opinions are those of Dale Crossley and Evan Shear and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Expressions of opinion are as of this date and are subject to change without notice. There is no guarantee that these statements, opinions, or forecasts provided in the attached article will prove to be correct. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy selected, including asset allocation and diversification. 

Raymond James and its advisors do not offer tax or legal advice. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional.

Unless certain criteria are met, Roth IRA owners must be 59 1/2 or older and have held the IRA for five years before tax-free withdrawals are permitted. Additionally, each converted amount may be subject to its own five-year holding period. Converting a traditional IRA into a Roth IRA has tax implications. Investors should consult a tax advisor before deciding to do a conversion.

Significant shifts in power can lead to interruptions in the government. With such a massive overturn as we experienced in the most recent election, the concern of a government shutdown is lurking in the minds of many. These events can lead to uncertainty about the impact on the economy, financial markets, and personal finances for those who rely on government paychecks or contracts.

With the headlines buzzing, it's easy for the "What if Monster" to creep in and make you worry about your financial stability. You may worry about delayed paychecks, market volatility, or economic slowdowns due to an impending shutdown. However, we can tell you from experience and long-term data that while shutdowns can cause short-term disruptions, strong financial planning provides the stability you need to navigate temporary times of uncertainty with confidence.

What Happens During a Government Shutdown?

A government shutdown is when Congress fails to pass a funding bill - typically due to voting disputes. This leads to a temporary closure of non-essential federal operations due to a lack of legal funding. Core services like Social Security, Medicare, and National Security will continue to operate. However, other acutely essential aspects can be affected by the shutdown.

• Government Employee Pay
  • Certain federal government employees may experience a delayed paycheck.
  • This is usually compensated with backpay once the shutdown is over.
• Federal Benefits
  • Some federal benefits and services may be put on hold for a temporary lack of funding.
  • These benefits will resume when the funding bill is passed.
• Economic Growth
  • If prolonged, a shutdown can impact the growth of consumer and commercial economic forces.
  • These markets recover quickly when the interruption is removed.
• Market Volatility
  • More mercurial markets and traders may become volatile during the government shutdown.
  • Long-term strategies are often unaffected by this temporary blip.

While a shutdown can cause temporary disruptions, financial markets, and the broader economy have historically recovered once government funding resumes.

How a Shutdown Could Affect You

A government shutdown is not without impact, and awareness of how that impact can affect you can help you prepare for the tumultuous waters ahead. The effect of a government shutdown primarily depends on how long it lasts.

• Stock Market Volatility
  • The stock market may experience short-term spikes or dips in stock value. However, historical data shows that markets almost always stabilize back to normal levels.
• Federal Employee and Contractor Pay
  • Paychecks and benefits can experience a temporary delay that results in financial stress. However, if you can hold out, backpay will be granted after the shutdown concludes.
• Tax Refunds and Loan Processing
  • Essential IRS functions continue, but certain federal tax services may be delayed. This can include the processing of federally backed loans, such as mortgages and small business loans.
• Consumer Confidence and Spending
  • A prolonged government shutdown can influence the overall economic momentum.

Keeping the 'What if Monster' Quiet

A government shutdown may be an unsettling occurrence, but it is not as big a disaster as it seems. Preparation and thoughtful financial planning can help you to minimize the impact on your finances, both regarding short-term funds and long-term goals. The following steps can help you manage your finances smoothly and keep the "What if Monster" at bay.

1. Emergency Fund

• Prepare your savings to cover 3-6 months of expenses. This can provide a cushion if you rely on federally sourced income that might be disruptive.

1. Long-Term Investment

• Stick to your long-term investment strategy. While markets can fluctuate during a government shutdown, responding to this volatility can be more harmful than beneficial. Hold fast and wait for the market to re-stabilize. Your long-term goals will likely stay on course.

1. Plan for Federal Service Delays

• If you rely on federal services, be aware that delays are possible. Make plans for interim services, stock up on supplies, and contact alternative support organizations to help you get through.

1. Minimize Expenses

• If you anticipate that an imminent shutdown could impact your finances, minimize unnecessary spending to help your budget flex more efficiently according to circumstances and needs.

Final Thoughts

Government shutdowns, while upsetting, are a natural part of our democratic system. Sometimes Congress has disagreements and the Federal budget is delayed as a result. These shutdowns come and go, but greater market trends are more powerful.

Shutdowns can cause temporary financial disruption, but they should not derail a well-thought-out financial plan. By preparing for interruptions in advance and focusing on your long-term financial health, you can keep the "What if Monster" from disturbing your sleep or your household stability.

If you have concerns about how a government shutdown may affect your financial future, we're here to help. Let's review your strategy and ensure you're prepared for any uncertainty that comes your way.

Any opinions are those of Dale Crossley and Evan Shear and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Expressions of opinion are as of this date and are subject to change without notice. There is no guarantee that these statements, opinions, or forecasts provided in the attached article will prove to be correct. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy selected, including asset allocation and diversification. 

As we approach new economic changes, the "what-if monster" rears its head again. This time, we're hearing worried whispers, "What if the Fed changes interest rates?"

What happens if the FED decides to raise, lower, or hold the interest rate? Any change, or even stasis, could potentially have an impact on your finances. After all, the FED plays a critical role in the economy, and interest rates have far-reaching consequences. It's only natural to worry, but with preparation for financial stability, you can make sure the "what-if monster" doesn't keep you up at night.

How the Fed Affects Interest Rates

The Federal Reserve, or "The Fed," uses interest rates as a tool to keep the economy healthy. Interest rates can be used to control inflation, stimulate economic growth, or keep a hot economy from overheating. In the past few years, interest rates have been increasing rapidly to combat inflation. If the Fed changes interest rates, what next?

Will the Fed raise, lower, or hold the rate — and what effects might these choices have?

• Rate Increases: If the interest rates rise, borrowing becomes more expensive. This can impact mortgages, credit cards, and business loans. However, it also means higher returns for savings and interest-bearing accounts.
• Rate Decreases: If the interest rate drops, it can boost economic activity because borrowing becomes more affordable. However, it will lower returns on savings and bonds.
• Holding Rates Steady: If interest rates remain steady, this can indicate economic stability. However, uncertainty can still cause fluctuations in other aspects of the market.

What It Means for Investments If the Fed Changes Interest Rates

Fed decisions regarding the interest rate are often accompanied by market volatility. While that volatility can be the cause or result, long-term investment strategies work best when investors hold fast. Long-term strategies are crafted with volatility as a known factor. Markets may rise and fall, and interest rates may fluctuate, but long-term strategies are designed for profitability and stability through many shifting economic trends.

• Stocks: Rate hikes increase borrowing costs, which can cause short-term dips in stock prices. However, markets typically recover when companies adapt to new economic conditions.
• Bonds: Higher rates reduce bond values, but lower rates increase them. New bonds may also offer higher yields at the new rate. Diversification can help to offset fluctuations in bond values over time.
• Real Estate: Higher interest rates impact mortgage affordability. This may dampen buyer activity in housing markets, but it simultaneously opens new opportunities for buyers in the long run once the spikes in demand settle.

The most important thing to remember is that focusing on long-term goals will result in financial stability. You won't need to react emotionally to short-term market changes if you have a diversified portfolio built on long-term investment strategies.

Preparing for Uncertainty

Although economists often have well-developed theories, no one can accurately foresee the Fed's next move. However, you can take steps to fortify your financial plans and ensure you are ready to weather uncertain market conditions.

1. Review Your Portfolio: At CrossleyShear, we specialize in helping clients build diversified portfolios tailored to their unique goals and risk tolerance. Our personalized approach is designed to strategically align investments to support your financial success.
2. Strengthen Your Emergency Fund: In case rates go up, build up a cash reserve to prepare for higher costs and unexpected expenses. This provides long-term stability and short-term well-being.
3. Evaluate Debt: Interest rates can have a significant impact on debt conditions. If you have variable-rate loans or lines of credit, explore your options for refinancing or paying down debt to help reduce your risk of higher interest costs.
4. Focus on Goals: Short-term changes to the interest rate are less worrying when you build long-term financial plans and goals built to withstand unpredictable changes to market conditions.

Keep the "What-if Monster" Quiet

When you can't predict changes to the interest rate, it's natural to feel unsettled. However, these changes don't have to impact your long-term financial plans. The key to financial confidence and economic stability is to be prepared. A solid strategy and our team of trusted financial advisors can help you face market uncertainty confidently.

If you worry about the impact of potential rate changes, we are here to help. Let's review your plan and ensure it's built to weather any shifts the Fed might bring. Don't let the "what-if monster" keep you up at night. Contact us today to build a plan that gives you peace of mind in any financial landscape.

Any opinions are those of Dale Crossley and Evan Shear and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Expressions of opinion are as of this date and are subject to change without notice. There is no guarantee that these statements, opinions, or forecasts provided in the attached article will prove to be correct. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy selected, including asset allocation and diversification.