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We see it every year. Good intentions, solid goals, and then a few small missteps quietly get in the way. After walking alongside families through all kinds of financial seasons, we have learned the common mistakes that slow progress the most. Spotting these pitfalls early can help you stay organized and feel confident as you start the year.

By the time December arrives, many people already feel stretched thin. Between year-end deadlines and holiday commitments, an end-of-year financial checklist can easily feel like one more thing to squeeze in. Even when it gets done, it’s often completed quickly, with limited time to reflect or ask deeper questions. Let January be your chance to reset. The start of a new year offers something December rarely does; space! The pressure of the calendar has eased and there is room

January often invites a slower kind of reflection. Many people begin thinking more carefully about what the coming year might hold. For those considering retirement, this moment can feel especially significant, as the idea shifts from a distant plan to a real possibility. Retirement is rarely just a finish line. It is a transition that unfolds over time, shaped by personal goals and practical realities. The New Year offers a natural opportunity to pause and consider whether y

New Year’s resolutions tend to arrive with a lot of noise. Promises to change habits overnight or overhaul routines often feel inspiring for a moment, then quietly fade as life resumes its normal pace. When it comes to finances, this pattern can leave people feeling discouraged, even when they care deeply about making thoughtful decisions. At River Birch, we see January differently. Rather than viewing the New Year as a time to fix what feels broken, we see it as a moment to

By River Birch Wealth Management A financially confident life doesn’t begin with perfect timing or flawless decisions but with a sense of direction. When you have a clear understanding of where you stand and where you’re headed, the stress that often surrounds financial matters begins to settle. At River Birch, we see confidence as something built through steady guidance and thoughtful planning. It grows like a strong tree, with roots that hold firm and branches that adapt to

By River Birch Wealth Management A new year has a way of inviting reflection. Many people begin January with a quiet hope that the months ahead will feel a little more organized and balanced.  While no one can predict what the year will bring, a thoughtful plan can bring comfort and direction. Planning offers a clearer picture of the choices that matter and helps you move through the year with steadier footing. As you look toward 2026, you may find yourself thinking about the

By River Birch Wealth Management Families often carry on traditions that quietly shape the way they approach financial planning. These routines can have a meaningful impact on your financial wellbeing and the habits passed down through generations. The close of the year creates a natural moment to revisit these traditions and consider new ones. These practices don’t need to be elaborate. Even simple moments can create lasting influence. Reflection  is a helpful place to begin

By River Birch Wealth Management The holiday season is a time of year many families look forward to. There are gatherings, familiar traditions, and chances to slow down and enjoy time with the people who matter most. However, this season can also bring a sense of pressure. Travel, gifts, meals, and unexpected plans often add costs that make the weeks ahead feel heavier than expected. You are not alone if this time of year brings mixed emotions. Many families feel pulled betwe

By River Birch Wealth Management A 529 plan helps families save for education in an organized and tax-advantaged way. These plans allow your contributions to grow over time and can be used for a wide range of qualified education expenses. While a 529 plan is flexible and easy to understand, the timing of your contributions matters. Knowing the deadlines helps you make thoughtful decisions before the year ends.  December is an important time to review your contributions before

By River Birch Wealth Management When we think about money, we usually think of numbers in the form of savings, returns, or retirement goals. But how we feel  about money matters just as much as how we manage it. Gratitude, a simple act of noticing what we already have, can change the way we make financial choices for the better. Gratitude Builds Perspective Finances can be stressful. There’s always another bill, another goal, or something you wish you could afford. Gratitude

By River Birch Wealth Management The holidays bring families together around tables, traditions, and TV. They’re also one of the few times all generations are in the same room, which makes it a natural opportunity to talk about the topic many families avoid: money . These conversations don’t have to be uncomfortable. In fact, they can be some of the most meaningful talks you’ll ever have. When handled with care, family money conversations can bring clarity and confidence. Why

By River Birch Wealth Management As the year winds down, most of us start thinking about family gatherings, holidays, and a little time to rest. But it’s also one of the best times to pause and make sure your finances are ready for the new year. A few simple steps now can bring confidence and help you start January feeling organized, confident, and in control. Here’s an easy-to-follow year-end financial checklist. 1. Review Your Spending and Savings Start by looking at your y

Written by River Birch Wealth Management During the holiday season, we frequently reflect on the things that are truly important in life.  Family, faith, and community take center stage. For many people, that means giving back. Whether you donate time, money, or resources, charitable giving is one of the most meaningful ways to make an impact before the year ends. Giving well also means giving wisely. Here are a few simple strategies to help make your generosity count. Know W

Written by John Register, October 2025   Retirement – There's So Many Phases!   Many pre-retirees concentrate on answering the question “Do I have enough money to retire?”, yet we may not realize that successful retirement planning ensures we have the finances (quantitative) but are also ready for the emotional (qualitative) aspect of retirement.   Retirement can be broken down into six phases:   1.     Honeymoon 2.     Rest and Relaxation 3.     Disenchantment 4.     Reorien

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