As if you haven’t heard it enough already… “HAPPY NEW YEAR!” All of us here at Allgen sincerely hope your holiday season was filled with peace and love, and has left you refreshed and motivated to start the New Year strong! Despite our best wishes and purest intentions, we understand the reality of the New Year phenomenon. We all make resolutions and try to hold on to that “fresh start” feeling for as long into the year as we can, but the sad truth is many of these commitments will go underachieved or forgotten. This is why it is crucial to take advantage of this internal fire of motivation the first few weeks of the year – before the fire begins to lose its air supply. While we can’t force you into the gym 4 days a week or make you read 10 books this year, we pledge to do everything we can to help you get your financial life into shape!
For starters, here are a few things you may want to consider when setting your goals for 2014:
- If you currently do not have health insurance, you could face a tax penalty. The initial penalty will be $95/year per individual ($47.50 per child under 18), $285 per family, or 1% of your income whichever is greater up to a maximum yearly premium for a Bronze plan for 2014. Enroll by March 31st and you will not have to make the individual shared responsibility payment. Some people with limited incomes may get an exemption. For more information visit https://www.healthcare.gov/families/ or contact your health insurance professional.
- Estimate your new withholding calculation and update your W-4 personal allowances voucher. Not having enough withheld or having too much withheld is not efficient.
- Set up a household budget. By conducting the simple exercise of forecasting your income and anticipated expenses for the year you can avoid surprises. Remember to set savings goals, including goals for major purchases and vacations.
- Retirement Contribution Limits Table:
If you have any questions or would like more information and tips for developing a plan for your finances, please feel free to contact our financial planning department at planning@allgenfinancial.com or visit our website.
In our ongoing effort to educate and help our clients optimize their financial lives, we are pleased to announce the continuation of our Three F’s: Foundation, Formation, Freedom workshop series. In this series, our senior partners Jason and Paul identify the three stages of the journey to financial freedom, and explain the necessary steps that will help you succeed in each stage.
It is our mission to help our clients meet and exceed their financial goals, so please do not hesitate to ask us for advice or assistance as you are setting and working towards your goals. From all of us here at Allgen, we wish you a happy and prosperous 2014!
