Northstar Financial Planners

05/15/2026

Someone asked you to serve as their successor trustee. You said yes — because it felt like an honor, and it is one.

But here's what a lot of people don't fully register when they agree: It's also a legal role. You're a fiduciary. You'll manage assets, handle tax filings, coordinate with attorneys, and distribute what's left, often over the course of a year or more, while also grieving.

If you've said yes to this role, one of the most valuable things you can do right now is read the trust document and know what's in it. This blog has more points to consider.

https://bit.ly/432T5Mi

You said yes to being a successor trustee. Many people have no idea what they actually agreed to. Here's what the role involves and why it's harder than it sounds.

04/24/2026

Hundreds of cyclists gathered in Doral this month for the seventh annual Autism Bike Ride, "Riding for the Cause," organized by Metro-Dade Firefighters Local 1403 to raise awareness of autism spectrum disorder and to support families in need.

Proceeds benefit the Dade County Association of Firefighters Charities and the University of Miami's autism awareness and treatment programs. More than $80,000 has been raised since the ride began in 2019.

Northstar was proud to sponsor the ride for the third consecutive year. And we're grateful to Metro-Dade Firefighters Local 1403 for an event that keeps bringing this community together.

https://bit.ly/4cJmcJe

Northstar Financial Planners in Plantation, Fla., sponsored the Autism Bike Ride in Doral for the third consecutive year.

04/16/2026

Most adult children know they need to have this conversation with their parents. Many put it off anyway.

And then a health crisis happens, and they're suddenly trying to piece together finances without documents, without guidance, without even knowing which accounts exist.

It's often avoidable. A lot of times, the hard part isn't the planning; it's getting Mom and Dad to the table. Here's how you can start the conversation.

https://bit.ly/4dGc4my

Your parents may resist talking about their finances, estate plan, and end-of-life wishes, but those conversations matter more than many families realize. Here's how to start.

04/15/2026

If you're a firefighter, police officer, or corrections officer, the Roth vs. traditional Deferred Comp question goes beyond just your tax bill.

Traditional withdrawals can bump up your Medicare premiums and make more of your Social Security taxable. Roth withdrawals come out tax-free and don't create those same issues.

You don't have to pick one. Many people split between both to create flexibility down the road.

https://bit.ly/4tEZusj

Roth or traditional Deferred Comp contributions? Learn how each option is taxed and what that means for FRS Special Risk members’ retirement income.

03/16/2026

If something happened to you tomorrow, would your adult kids know where to start?

Many families have never had this conversation. Not because they don't care, but because it feels uncomfortable.

Your kids don't need every account balance. They just need to know who your advisor is and where to find what matters.

We've helped families have this conversation before there's a crisis. It's usually easier than people expect.

https://bit.ly/4b5BnwK

Most families never talk about money. Here's why that silence can backfire and why having an honest conversation with your adult children is one of the most protective things you can do.

03/06/2026

Three years. One cause. A stadium full of people who chose to be there.

On March 1, Northstar Lead Advisor Charlie Thomas made the Fight for Air Climb – Miami for the third consecutive year at loanDepot Park. He climbed alongside first responders and community members supporting the American Lung Association.

Watching firefighters climb in full gear as a tribute to those affected by lung disease is something that sticks with you.

We're honored to be a three-time sponsor and proud of everyone who made the climb.

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Northstar Financial Planners sponsored the Fight for Air Climb – Miami for the third year, joining firefighters and the community in support of lung health.

02/20/2026

We often think of HSAs as simple healthcare savings accounts.

But they can be a powerful retirement tool as well.

Triple tax advantage. Tax-free funds for healthcare in retirement. Flexible withdrawals after 65.

When used strategically, an HSA can lower taxes now and increase flexibility later.

https://bit.ly/4at1N9W

HSAs offer triple tax advantages and surprising retirement flexibility. Learn how to maximize your health savings account for medical expenses and beyond.

02/19/2026

FRS Special Risk retirement isn’t “set it and forget it.”

Permanent decisions. Strict deadlines. Long-term tax impact.

We can handle it ourselves, but that means owning every detail.

The right wealth manager can bring structure and experience to help retirement feel secure, not stressful.

https://bit.ly/3OnqZrd

Wondering if you need a wealth manager for your FRS Special Risk retirement? Learn the pros and cons to decide what's right for your financial future.

01/16/2026

Choosing a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) is a life-stage decision that carries financial and emotional weight.

From upfront fees to healthcare guarantees, every contract tells a story. And not all are created equal.

We’ve put together a practical guide for evaluating CCRCs so that you can make a confident, well-informed decision.

Read the key questions to ask before you commit:

https://bit.ly/3LAmZma

Considering a continuing care retirement community? They can offer continuity and community in one place, but here’s what you should consider before signing a contract.

01/15/2026

For firefighters, law enforcement, and corrections officers, retirement doesn’t just mark the end of a job. It’s the loss of built-in structure and connection.

The retirees who thrive are often the ones who plan for more than income. They plan for rhythm. For meaning. For community.

Here’s what that can look like and why it may matter more than any spreadsheet.