Scott and James discuss the benefits of Health Savings Accounts and how to maximize their impact. Planning Points Discussed  Utilizing Time Efficiently Capital Appreciation Purchasing Power Other issues (IRAs, Inflation, Financial Goals, etc.)  Listener Question: My question is around HSA's. Am I really missing out by not investing in this? I understand the power of tax advantage accounts, but to me having all that money that can only be used for specific things feels very limiting. Plus all the extra work of needing to track these expenses, etc.
 
 Is that trade off really worth it, or am I fine if I'm maxing out IRA's (no 401k atm) and adding to taxable accounts. Timestamps: 2:26- HSA Overview 5:16 - Tax Benefits 9:36 - HSA or FSA 12:54 - Expense Tracking 15:54- Required Distributions 18:30 - Aligning Your Financial Goals LET'S CONNECT! James Facebook LinkedIn Website Scott Facebook Twitter Website ENJOY THE SHOW? Don’t miss an episode, subscribe via iTunes, Stitcher, Spotify, or Google Play. Leave us a review on iTunes. Have a money question you want us to answer? Submit one here

156 - Benefits of Health Savings Accounts and How to Maximize Their Impact

Your REAL personal finance questions answered by CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, Scott Frank and&nbsp; Meg Bartelt. With all of the misinformation and jargon in the financial industry, it's no wonder most people are confused about how to best manage their money. James and Meg are here to give clear answers to the important questions they hear most often. If you're ready to use your finances to create a more secure financial future, this show is for you.

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Deciding what to do with your stocks can prove to be a problem, challenge, and opportunity all at once. With a huge portfolio in front of you, what can you do to slim it down? This week, Scott Frank, founder of Stone Steps Financial, and Meg Bartelt, founder of Flow Financial Planning, LLC, provide insights on how to cut down on your stocks to achieve the life you’ve dreamed of.  We have emotional ties to our investments—but that shouldn’t stop you from pursuing a more financially sound future. Scott and Meg swap tales of market highs and lows, illustrating why, sometimes, letting go of stock can safeguard your portfolio and your future security. This episode is more than just a discussion—it’s a blueprint for aligning your stocks with your broader financial aspirations. Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Meg Bartelt on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Are you ready to align your money with your ideal life? Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial.

What Should You Do With Your Stock Portfolio?

Is your cash currently sitting under your mattress, withering away with inflation? While stashing your cash seems like a safe bet, it limits your access to investment opportunities. With inflation rising, the value of your cash may not have the longevity you hoped for. If you currently have a pile of cash and are asking yourself, “Well…what now?” this week’s episode of “Real Personal Finance” guides you through aligning your resources with the life you want to lead. Scott Frank, founder of Stone Steps Financial, and Meg Bartelt, founder of Flow Financial Planning, LLC, share strategies that steer you clear of the hoarding trap and onto the road to smart investment. The conversation covers the “Have-To’s,” “What-To’s,” and “Need-To’s” of personal finance, giving listeners insights on how to make your cash work for you. The journey doesn't stop there; Scott and Meg address the pressing need for retirement savings, even if you're coming late to the party, and how to employ tax location strategies to invest more in your future. Don’t let your cash waste away; use it to make your ideal life possible.  Ready to learn more? Scott Frank on LinkedIn Meg Bartelt on LinkedIn Stone Steps Financial Money can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re able to understand the complexities, you can make better decisions to improve your daily life. Are you ready to align your money with your ideal life? Connect with us at Stone Steps Financial. 

What Should You Do With Your Pile of Cash?

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Is It Possible To Actually Reach FIRE?

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How Can You Avoid Surprises Next Tax Season?

Scott and James thank all of the fans for years of support for listening to the podcast and review where you can find them if you're looking for customized advice when it comes to maximizing your finances. 

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156 - Benefits of Health Savings Accounts and How to Maximize Their Impact

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