Personal Stories & Updates

FDS Insurance Video

[Video] Life Insurance

Studio Chat: Life Insurance STEPHEN SMALENBERGER, EA & MICHELLE SMALENBERGER, CFP® We want to talk through some thoughts regarding life insurance that we personally discussed when choosing what was best for us. Please watch these other videos that explain the what, why, how much, and types of life insurance that makes sense. Comfort Level &…

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FDS DIY Video Professionals

DIY vs. Hiring Professionals [Video]

We all work with different types of professionals whether it be an accountant, attorney, or insurance agent for some examples.  You’ve likely considered using them in your life.  With all of these professionals to choose from there’s been one thing that we’ve talked about as we too have had to decide should we hire someone to help us do something.

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[Video] Merry Christmas!

STEPHEN SMALENBERGER, EA Think of a special gift you’ve gotten for Christmas?  One that we like to give is shared experiences.  Think of a Disney on Ice, going on a ski trip with your family, dinner, movie, or concert tickets.  All of these are really special because it shows that you’ve thought of someone else…

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fds appreciated stock

[Video] Donating Appreciated Stock

STEPHEN SMALENBERGER, EA Maybe you’re considering a way to support a not-for-profit organization that you believe in.  Here’s a way to do just that with something that you already own… appreciated stock. What is appreciated stock?  It is an investment that has grown since you bought it. Let’s use an example and use some number…

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FDS Qualified Charitable Distribution

Qualified Charitable Distributions [Video]

 Maybe you’re thinking of a way to support a not-for-profit or charity that you believe in.  Here’s another way to do that with something you already have; your traditional IRA.  These are known as Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCD).  We’ve talked about IRAs before and how when you take money out it’s taxable.  At age 72…

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Thanksgiving Financial Design Studio

[Video] Being Thankful

STEPHEN SMALENBERGER, EA & MICHELLE SMALENBERGER, CFP® What reminds you of Thanksgiving?  Is it gathering around the table with family?  Is it going to grandma’s house?  Is it football or pumpkin pie? Think back to the very first Thanksgiving, when the pilgrims left England with everything they had in the boat.  They still celebrated, because…

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