Ohnward Wealth & Retirement

06/05/2026

Explore the ins-and-outs of 529 plans and how to maximize educational savings.

Congress continues to increase the tax and estate planning benefits of 529 plans, making them a must-consider tool for parents and grandparents.

06/02/2026

From vacations and road trips to camps, concerts, and cookouts, summer expenses can add up quickly. A little planning now can save you a lot of stress later.

Here's how to get ahead of summer spending:
• Make a list before you book — Know what you're spending before the trip, not after.
• Set a "fun money" limit — Give yourself and your family a daily or weekly spending cap for discretionary spending.
• Plan for back-to-school — It comes fast. Factor school supplies and clothing into your summer budget now.
• Compare before you commit — Flights, hotels, and vacation packages vary widely. A little research can save hundreds.

Summer memories don't have to come with a side of financial stress. With a simple plan, you can enjoy the season and still feel good about your finances.

05/20/2026

❓Answer in 3… 2... 1… What matters the most in your life?

When your financial, tax, and legal professionals work together under one roof, you gain clarity, confidence, and control. Build a team that communicates, collaborates, and keeps your strategy aligned, so you can focus on what matters to you.

05/18/2026

Daily Inspiration

05/15/2026

That frustrating moment when airfare jumps $200 between browsing sessions? You're not imagining it and you're definitely not alone.

Dynamic flight pricing operates on supply and demand. Peak travel days and times command premium prices.

If you’re looking to stretch your travel dollars, consider these strategies:

✔️ Mid-week departures – particularly Tuesdays and Wednesdays – consistently offer lower fares and less chaotic airports. The savings can be substantial enough to justify adjusting your schedule.

✔️The "sweet spot" for domestic bookings sits is 1-3 months prior to departure. Too early and you're paying full price. Too late and you're competing for remaining seats at inflated rates.

✔️Did a friend of a friend tell you that you have to book on a Tuesday at 3:00 p.m. to get the best deal? Those “travel hacks” have been debunked. Modern airline algorithms adjust prices constantly based on dozens of factors.

Start monitoring prices the moment travel plans take shape. Set fare alerts. Track patterns for your specific route. When you spot a price that fits your budget, book it and stop second-guessing.

Strategic timing beats impulse booking every time – and your wallet will thank you.

05/13/2026

If your employer offers a 401(k), getting started and being consistent can make a meaningful difference over time.
Here’s why:

✅ Starting early matters
Even small contributions can add up over time thanks to consistent saving and long term growth potential.

✅ Consistency is key
Regular contributions—whether monthly or per paycheck—help build momentum and create a habit that supports your long term goals.

✅ Don’t miss out on employer contributions
If your company offers a match, contributing enough to receive it means you’re capturing part of your total compensation.

✅ Increase when you can
Raises, bonuses, or reduced expenses can be great opportunities to gradually increase your contribution without impacting your lifestyle.

You don’t have to get everything “perfect” to get started. The most important thing is to start.

05/07/2026

Divorce can significantly affect your Social Security benefits, so it's essential to understand the changes you may face. If you were married for at least 10 years, you might be eligible to claim spousal benefits based on your former spouse’s work record, even if they’ve remarried. Ensure your divorce decree clearly addresses Social Security benefits to avoid confusion later.

The timing of your benefit claims matters too; delaying until your full retirement age can increase your monthly payments. If you remarry, your eligibility for spousal benefits may change, but you could regain it if that marriage ends. Given these complexities, reevaluating your retirement plans after divorce is crucial. That’s where we can help. If this information relates to you and your situation, send us a message.

05/05/2026

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uRyX29tEf0Q
A ROTH IRA conversation.... "To Convert, or not to Convert"
In this short podcast learn if this strategy can help you!

Roth conversion, Roth IRA strategy, retirement tax planning—should you convert your IRA or not? In this episode of Confidently Funded, we break down everythi...

05/04/2026

Daily Inspiration.