Blog
What’s on our mind? You can read about it in our blog. Whether it’s ideas from the industry or emerging trends, you can read about it here. And once in a while, we may throw in a movie review or some other surprise. So keep checking in. We’re glad to have you reading along.
Questions to Ask a Financial Advisor Before Hiring Them
Hiring a financial advisor is a major decision. You are trusting someone to help guide your investments, retirement planning, tax strategies, and long-term financial future. But many people make the mistake of choosing an advisor based...
Read MoreHow to Choose a Financial Advisor in Springfield, MO
Choosing a financial advisor is one of the most important financial decisions you will make. The right advisor can help you build wealth, reduce taxes, prepare for retirement, and create a long-term plan for your family. The wrong...
Read MoreHow to Reduce Taxes on Retirement Income in Missouri: Strategies Every Retiree Should Know
Retirement should be about enjoying the life you’ve built, not worrying about how much of your income is going to taxes. The reality is that taxes do not disappear once you stop working. They simply change form. If you live in Missouri...
Read More2026 Retirement Planning Checklist for Missouri Residents: Key Steps to Take Now
Retirement planning in 2026 looks different than it did just a few years ago. Contribution limits have increased, Social Security benefits received a cost-of-living adjustment, and healthcare costs continue to rise. Missouri residents...
Read MoreYour 2026 Financial Planning Guide: 7 Essential Steps to Build Wealth and Peace of Mind
Your 2026 Financial Planning Guide: 7 Essential Steps to Build Wealth and Peace of Mind As we move through 2026, the financial landscape continues to evolve. Moderating inflation, potential interest rate adjustments, advances in...
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The Ultimate End-of-Year Financial Checklist for High-Earning Professionals in Springfield, MO
As the year winds down, most people shift into holiday mode travel plans, family gatherings, and trying to remember which cousin you forgot to buy a gift for. But for successful professionals earning $150k+ in Springfield, MO, the end...
Read MoreWhat to Do After Maxing Out Your 401(k) | Financial Advisor Springfield, MO
Maxed out your 401(k)? Learn what to do next with your money from Evans Wealth Planning — Springfield, Missouri’s trusted financial advisor for high-income earners.
Read MoreYou've Delayed Important Financial Decisions Because You're Overwhelmed
Be honest: how long have you been meaning to update your estate plan? When did you last review your insurance coverage? Are you confident your investment allocation is optimal, or is it just "fine"? When earning and accumulating wealth...
Read MoreRetirement Planning in Springfield, MO: What Every Resident Should Know
As a financial advisor serving the Springfield, Missouri community, I've had the privilege of helping countless local families navigate their path to retirement. Whether you work for one of our area's major employers like CoxHealth,...
Read More5 Financial Habits That Build Wealth Over Time
Building wealth isn't about making dramatic financial moves or timing the market perfectly. Instead, it's about developing consistent habits that compound over time. As a financial advisor, I've seen clients achieve remarkable...
Read MoreMOST 529 Plan: Springfield Parents' Guide to Tax-Advantaged College Savings
As a financial advisor serving families throughout Springfield, Missouri, I frequently discuss education planning with parents who want to give their children the best opportunities possible. One of the most powerful tools available to...
Read MoreThe Hidden Cost of Waiting to Start Financial Planning
It’s easy to put off financial planning. You tell yourself you’ll start when you make more money, when work slows down, or when life feels a little more stable. But here’s the truth is, waiting has a cost. And it’s not just about...
Read MoreYour First Five Hundred Thousand: Why It’s the Hardest and How to Get There Faster
The first five hundred thousand dollars is the hardest part of building wealth. No question. It takes the most time, the most discipline, and the most consistency. You don’t have years of compound growth working in your favor yet. It’s...
Read MoreThe Problem with the Alphabet Soup of Financial Designations
Walk into any financial advisor’s office, and you’re likely to see a wall or a LinkedIn headline filled with acronyms. CFP®, CFA®, ChFC®, RICP®, CKA®, CLU®, AIF®, CRPC®… We need to get rid of the alphabet soup. It's time.
Read MoreWhy a High Income Doesn’t Guarantee Financial Freedom
Making a lot of money is great. It opens doors, creates options, and can fast-track your goals. But here’s the catch, income alone doesn’t equal financial freedom. I’ve worked with people making three hundred thousand a year who feel...
Read MoreWhat the Missouri Capital Gains Tax Repeal Could Mean for Your Money
Starting this year, Missouri residents may no longer owe state income tax on capital gains — a major shift that could reshape how you manage your investments, real estate, and business assets. The bill has passed both the House and...
Read MoreDon’t Retire Without Reading This: Key Mistakes to Avoid
Retirement is a milestone worth celebrating but it can also be a financial minefield if you're not careful. After helping dozens of people transition into retirement, I’ve seen firsthand how avoidable mistakes can turn a dream...
Read MoreFinancial Planning in Springfield, MO
1. Take Advantage of Springfield’s Cost of Living Compared to larger metropolitan areas, Springfield offers a more affordable cost of living, making it easier to save and invest. Lower housing costs mean you can put more money toward...
Read MoreSmart Summer Moves: Financial Planning Tips for High-Earners
Summer often feels like the perfect time to take your foot off the gas—but when it comes to your finances, it’s a great season to reset, review, and make progress. Whether you're spending more time outdoors, traveling, or just enjoying...
Read MoreBuilding a Sellable Business: How to Increase Your Company’s Value for an Exit
Many entrepreneurs build businesses without an exit strategy in mind, but the most successful ones know that a sellable business is a valuable business. Whether you plan to sell in a few years or decades, here’s how to maximize your...
Read MoreWhat is EBITDA and How It Affects Small Business Owners
For many small business owners, financial metrics can feel like a foreign language. One term that frequently comes up in financial discussions, especially when seeking investment or evaluating business performance, is EBITDA. But what...
Read MoreHow to Minimize Taxes as a High-Earning Doctor: Essential Strategies
As a medical professional, your high income also means a high tax burden. Without proper planning, you could be paying more than necessary in taxes each year. Fortunately, there are several legal strategies to reduce your tax bill and...
Read MoreDebt Repayment Strategies for Medical Professionals: How to Tackle Student Loans Efficiently
Becoming a doctor is a rewarding career, but it often comes with a hefty price tag. Many medical professionals graduate with six-figure student loan debt, creating financial stress even with a high earning potential. The key to...
Read MoreHow to Minimize Taxes as a High-Earning Doctor: Essential Strategies
As a medical professional, your high income also means a high tax burden. Without proper planning, you could be paying more than necessary in taxes each year. Fortunately, there are several legal strategies to reduce your tax bill and...
Read MoreMaximizing Tax Deductions: A Business Owner’s Guide to Keeping More of What You Earn
As a business owner, you work hard to generate revenue, but taxes can take a significant chunk of your profits if you're not strategic. The key to keeping more of your money is maximizing tax deductions. Here’s how you can do it...
Read MoreLove & Money: How to Build a Relationship Without Breaking Your Budget
Valentine’s Day is all about romance, but let’s be real—dating can get expensive. Between fancy dinners, weekend getaways, and gift-giving, it’s easy to feel pressure to spend more than you should. The good news? You don’t need to...
Read MoreThe Smart Way to Use Your Tax Refund (Instead of Blowing It)
Tax season is here, and for a lot of people, that means a refund check is on the way. The average refund is around $3,000—enough to make a real impact on your finances. But too often, that money disappears on impulse purchases before...
Read MoreFinancial Freedom in Springfield, MO: Planning for a Brighter Tomorrow
Nestled in the Ozarks, Springfield, MO, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city opportunities. Whether you're starting your career, building a family, or planning for retirement, this community provides the perfect...
Read More5 Financial Resolutions to Kickstart 2025
As the calendar flips to a new year, it's the perfect time to evaluate your financial goals and set resolutions that can pave the way for a brighter future. Here are five actionable financial resolutions to help you start 2025 on the...
Read MoreFinancial Planning For Business Owners: More Time, Less Stress
Owning a business is a rewarding yet demanding pursuit that often comes with round-the-clock responsibilities, and managing finances is a major component of that workload. Financial planning can be the key to helping business owners...
Read MoreThe Best Credit Cards to Use While Traveling in Europe (And One to Avoid)
Traveling to Europe is an exciting adventure, but navigating payment systems abroad can sometimes be tricky. One of the smartest moves you can make before your trip is to choose the right credit card for international use. The right...
Read MoreBuilding Wealth Beyond the White Coat: Why Medical Professionals Need a Financial Advisor
Whether you wear a white coat or not, a solid financial plan is essential to your success. See how we can help you plan for your future and take control of your finances.
Read MoreFinancial Planning for Doctors: How It Helps You Spend More Quality Time with Family
For many doctors, the demands of their profession make it challenging to strike a balance between work and personal life. Often, the pressures of medical practice, including irregular hours, high stress, and the responsibilities of...
Read MoreWhy Life Insurance is Essential for Medical Professionals
As a medical professional, you know accidents happen all the time, why not be prepared?
Read MoreFinancial Planning for Young Executives: Building Wealth While Advancing Your Career
As a young executive, your career trajectory is on the rise, and with that growth comes new financial responsibilities and opportunities. While you may be focused on climbing the corporate ladder, it’s equally important to build a...
Read MoreWhy Springfield, Missouri is Called the "Queen City"
If you drive around Springfield, you may notice there are many businesses and places referring to the "Queen City" but what does the nickname mean and how did it come to represent the city we call home? Let’s explore the history behind...
Read MoreA Local's Guide to the Enchanting Christmas Lights at Silver Dollar City
As the holiday season nears, there’s one iconic attraction in the Ozarks that locals and visitors alike won’t want to miss: the Christmas lights at Silver Dollar City. Every year, this 1880s-style theme park transforms into a winter...
Read More5 Common Financial Mistakes Young People Make and How to Avoid Them
Navigating the financial landscape can be daunting, especially for young people just starting their financial journey. From budgeting to saving for retirement, there are numerous pitfalls that can lead to long-term financial challenges...
Read MoreThe Role of a Financial Planner: Why You Need One on Your Financial Journey
In today’s fast-paced world, managing personal finances can be overwhelming. Whether you’re just starting your career, planning for retirement, or navigating significant life changes, having a clear financial strategy is essential....
Read MoreSmart Traveling: Top Financial Tips for Budget-Conscious Travelers
Traveling can be one of the most enriching experiences of your life, but it can also strain your finances if you’re not careful. I believe that with a bit of planning and smart strategies, you can explore the world without breaking the...
Read MoreWhy Creating a Will is Crucial for Your Financial Legacy
When we talk about financial planning, most of the focus tends to be on accumulating wealth, saving for retirement, and optimizing taxes. While these are essential elements of a sound financial strategy, there’s one critical aspect...
Read MoreWhy Paying for a Financial Advisor is More Valuable Than DIY
As a high earner, your time is one of your most valuable assets. With a demanding career, long hours, and multiple priorities, it’s easy for personal financial planning to take a back seat, let us do it for you.
Read MoreWhat Questions to Ask Your Financial Advisor on Your First Meeting
Your first meeting with a financial advisor is a crucial step toward securing your financial future. It’s your opportunity to ensure that you’re working with someone who understands your goals, aligns with your values, and has the...
Read MoreFinancial Advisor vs.
Financial Advisor vs. Salesperson: Understanding the Differences When navigating the complex world of personal finance, distinguishing between a financial advisor and a salesperson is crucial. Both roles involve financial products, but...
Read MoreMaximizing Deductible Expenses: The Case for Using a Business Credit Card
In the realm of managing business finances, one tool often overlooked but immensely beneficial is the business credit card. Beyond its convenience for transactions, a business credit card can be a powerful ally in tracking deductible...
Read MoreMaximizing Deductible Expenses: The Case for Using a Business Credit Card
In the realm of managing business finances, one tool often overlooked but immensely beneficial is the business credit card. Beyond its convenience for transactions, a business credit card can be a powerful ally in tracking deductible...
Read MoreAnnuities: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Annuities have long been a topic of intrigue and debate in the world of personal finance. For some, they represent a stable source of income in retirement; for others, they are complex financial products with hidden pitfalls. In this...
Read MoreA Fresh Start: A Comprehensive Guide to Budgeting at the Beginning of the Year
As the new year unfolds, many of us embark on resolutions to improve various aspects of our lives. One crucial area that often takes center stage is personal finance. Creating a solid budget at the start of the year can set the tone...
Read MoreTax Benefits of Points vs. Cash Back Credit Cards: Maximizing Your Savings
Credit cards offer various financial benefits, from rewards and cash back to travel perks and protection. While the primary purpose of credit cards is to make payments convenient, they can also have tax implications, particularly when...
Read MoreCredit Cards: Cash Back Cards
Cash-back credit cards have gained immense popularity in recent years, and for good reason. These cards offer a simple and effective way to put money back into your pocket with every purchase you make. Whether you're a frequent shopper...
Read MoreCredit Card Series: Points Cards
Credit cards have become an essential financial tool for millions of people around the world. While they offer various benefits such as convenience and security, one of the most attractive perks is the ability to earn reward points....
Read MoreGuiding Toward Financial Clarity: New Beginnings
Guiding Toward Financial Clarity: New Beginnings In this business, it’s easy to be taken advantage of, let down, and lied to. We had a meeting with a new client this week who had been let down by someone that they...
Read MoreThe Undeniable Importance of Life Insurance for Stay-at-Home Spouses
Life insurance is often associated with the primary breadwinner of a family, but it's crucial to recognize the immense value that stay-at-home spouses bring to the household. Despite not having a traditional income, their contributions...
Read MoreWhat are Accelerated Care Benefits?
Life insurance is a type of insurance policy that provides financial support to the policyholder's loved ones after they pass away. While most people purchase life insurance with the goal of providing for their families in the event of...
Read MoreHow to Maximize your Credit Cards
Credit cards can be incredibly useful financial tools when used responsibly. They offer a convenient way to make purchases, earn rewards, and build credit. However, not all credit cards are created equal, and maximizing the benefits of...
Read MoreWhat to do With Your 401(k) if You Leave Your Job
If you leave your job, you have several options regarding your 401k account:1. Leave the money in the plan:You may be able to leave your 401k account with your previous employer's plan. However, it's important to note that you won't be...
Read MoreThe Importance of Life Insurance in Your Financial Plan
Life insurance is one of the most important and often overlooked aspects of personal finance. It provides financial security for your loved ones in the event of your unexpected death, ensuring that they can maintain their standard of...
Read MoreLife Insurance Assessment: With a Family
One of the most important triggers for needing life insurance is a growing family. Whether you just got married or are expecting a child, you may need to check on your life insurance policy.HomeYou should periodically review your...
Read MoreLife Insurance Myths
Life Insurance Myths Life Insurance is too expensive Life insurance may be expensive, but it will only get more expensive. Life insurance is...
Read MoreNew Year's Resolutions: Financial Advice
Financial New Year’s Resolution Below are a couple of ideas that you can use to get on track to start 2023. Using one of these would be an excellent way to take control of your finances in the new year, or try coupling a...
Read MoreHow to Catch Up On Your Retirement Plan
If you are behind on your retirement plan savings, there are steps you can take to change that. Doing these simple things will help you grow your retirement and get you back on track.
Read More7 REASONS WHY YOU NEED A FINANCIAL PLANNER
Choosing whether to work with a financial planner is a big decision, one that will affect you and your finances for years to come, so it's important to really consider your options. People often think that they can do it themselves,...
Read More2022 Credit Card Tips
Credit Cards!A credit card is sometimes a necessary evil. When used properly, a credit card is simply another tool in the toolbox. So, how do you know if you need one? Well, it is important to first understand how a credit card...
Read MoreWhat I Wish I Knew About Investing
Let's face it, there are so many mistakes to make with our money. Whether it is with investing, saving, or the habits of money there is always something to learn. Read this post if you are starting your journey, or just want to learn more.
Read More9 Money Saving Tips!
Everyone wants to save money, but sometimes it is hard to get started. Here I have laid out 9 easy ways to get started saving money, and hopefully they will be building blocks on the path to financial freedom.
Read More6 Money Myths!
Money is a topic that is on everyone's minds all the time. In this post, I outline a couple of things that we hear all our lives that may not be the best advice. Our goal is to try to keep you from making some of these big mistakes.
Read MoreHow Qualified Charitable Distribution's Can Decrease Your Taxes in Retirement
Qualified Charitable Distributions or QCD's can be a great way to help reduce your taxable income each year. QCD's are also a great way to meet the demands of your Required Minimum Distributions each year. If you did not know, owners...
Read MoreHow to Budget For The Holidays Like A Pro!
We have officially entered the holidays season, Thanksgiving is quickly approaching and Christmas is right behind it! Within all that excitement hides a tiny tiny bit of dread, or a lot of dread depending on who you are. That dread is....
Read MoreThe Relation Between your Emergency Fund and your Debt
Your finances are like a tool box each tool represents a different and important feature that makes sure you can get the job done and build the financial security you have worked so hard for. While hammers and drills may represent the...
Read MoreDon't Fall for This Life Insurance Trick!
Life insurance is just about the worst thing to bring up in a conversation, but not for most financial advisors! Life insurance is many advisors favorite part of the financial planning process, and why? Because typically it rewards...
Read MoreSocial Security Is Running Out, Are You Prepared?
Social security has been around since 1935 and ever since then it has been promised as a support fund to assure our elderly generation has a comfortable and safe retirement. While social security may only be paid out to Americans in...
Read More10 Ways to Prepare your Finances for the end of the Year
As we enter into the last few months of the year, it is always important to begin to remind ourselves of all the tasks that need to be taken care of before the new year arrives. Several of those tasks include financial activities, and...
Read MoreIs it Time for your SIMPLE Plan to Grow Up?
Business owners listen up, November 2nd of every year is the deadline to switch your company from a SIMPLE IRA plan over to a 401(k) plan for the following year. A SIMPLE IRA plan is designed specifically for smaller businesses to use...
Read MoreBest Ways to Protect Yourself from Cryptocurrency Scams
Cryptocurrencies are very new in the finance world compared to other forms of investing. They also rely heavily on mysterious technology that not a lot of people know about. This newness paired with the unknown behind it makes...
Read MoreValue of Advice
A lot of times people take the value of advise for granted when it comes to financial planning. As humans, we always want to think that we can do things on our own, and while it might be true that we can, a lot of times we can do...
Read MoreInvesting in Stocks
Investing into the stock market can be scary. No one really knows how the market will perform on a day to day basis, making it hard to know for certain that you will make money. While this is true, people who invest for the long run...
Read MoreEmergency Fund
One of the most important things you can do when you start financial planning is starting your emergency fund. If you listen to people like Dave Ramsey, he will tell you to have 3-6 months worth of expenses built up in your emergency...
Read MoreHealth is Your Biggest Asset
What is the biggest asset you have? If your answer is your house, car, or cash, you'd be wrong. The biggest asset we all have is our health. Without your health, you have nothing. Your health enables you to go on vacation, spend time...
Read MoreWhy Cheap isn't Always the Cheapest
We always want to find good deals on products when we go shopping. Why would you want to pay more for something when there's an alternative that works just the same? And while this train of thought is fine for some products, it doesn't...
Read MoreMy Health Journey
People don't usually associate their health with their wealth, but the reality is that those two things go hand in hand. You need to be healthy in order to live a long life and enjoy the money that you've worked so hard to earn. That's...
Read MoreDon't go House Broke!
One mistake a lot of people make when they first start making money is buying a house that is too big for their budget. Of course we want to look successful and rich by living in a nice big house, but what's more important than looking...
Read MoreFinancial Plan vs Financial Planning
So what's the difference between financial planning and simply having a financial plan? Is there even a difference? The short answer, yes! A financial plan is simply a document that tells you how to spend and save your money, financial...
Read MoreMake Your Bed!
Did you know that you spend roughly ⅓ of your life in your bedroom? It’s crazy to think about, but it's true. And doing something as simple as making your bed can make all the difference. It’s very hard to feel calm and...
Read MoreThe Ultimate Guide to Budgeting (If You Absolutely Hate Budgeting)
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room, BUDGETING! There are millions of interesting things to talk about in the world, like the solar system or ice fishing, but budgeting is usually not one of those. It may be boring or...
Read MoreChecklists: The Easiest Way of Staying On-Track
Do you ever feel like your life is slipping into a disorganized chaos? How often do you forget to do important tasks, such as picking up the dog from the vet or finding time to buy groceries? Missing these tasks, although may seem...
Read MoreDon’t Let Fear Make Your Financial Decisions!
Is the stock market adding to your list of woes? You’re not the only one, just these past few weeks we’ve seen a steady drop in the stock market, causing a nationwide panic for what this could mean. In moments like this,...
Read MoreCha-ching! Why Taking a Break Could Make Your Richer
When was the last time you took a vacation? One of the best parts about my job is helping my clients improve their quality of life. I am a big believer in taking breaks and keeping stress to a minimum, that’s I welcome clients...
Read MoreHow to Still Have Fun While Budgeting
Hmmm...on a scale of 1-10, how much do you like budgeting? If your answer is anywhere from the 1 to 4 range, this post is for you! Keep up the good work and stick to your budget! Just like dieting, budgeting restricts your money and...
Read MoreThe Importance of Life Insurance
Lately, I've been noticing a dangerous trend. No, it's not bungee jumping or monster truck conventions (fun)... but something seemingly benign. It has to do with the personal fundraising site GoFundMe. Don't get me wrong, GoFundMe has...
Read More5 Important Things to Consider if you Have a New Family
Did you just have kids? Are you a newlywed? If you can answer 'yes' to either of these two, you should take note of the following things to consider when you're structuring a financial plan. 1. Emergency Funds If you have kids, it's...
Read More3 Money Mistakes You Need to Avoid
Here are some ways to NOT keep you on the path to financial security. Avoid these money shortfallings so you can be better prepared and less stressed for you and your family 1. Not Being Prepared for the Worst The great Stoic...
Read More6 Ways to Raise Money-Savvy Kids
If you're able to teach your kids how to understand money from an early age, they will 1. Start early! Kids understand more than you think. Introducing your kids to money as soon as they're able to count will expose them to the value...
Read More3 Minute Refresher: S.M.A.R.T. Goals
You may have a clear trajectory in mind of where you want to end up in life, but identifying how to get there can be foggy. If you are serious about success and willing to put in the energy to reach your goals, it becomes crucial to...
Read More7 Smart Ways for Spring Cleaning Your Finances
It's time for a good spring cleaning! While you’re tidying up the home, we encourage you to also take some a moment to organize your finances. Your money needs some attention too, it's well worth the effort. Putting in an...
Read MoreSpringtime in Springfield: 6 Ways Appreciate the Season
Springfield, MO was made for Spring. We're situated in the perfect part of the country to create crisp, cool mornings and warm afternoons that are great for hiking, gardening, or all of the above! Here at the office we came up with...
Read MoreTHE TECHY ADVISOR: BusyKid
I have to believe this is the next big thing in the world of tech and parenting. A new app has hit the market, ‘BusyKid’, which teaches young learners to be financially savvy with a mobile allowance system. Parents are...
Read MoreTHE TECHY ADVISOR: Unroll Me!
Our latest installment of our biweekly blog will be dedicated to covering the latest apps and other technologies that make our lives easier! We like to test out the the most current, innovative, and simple ideas so you can find out...
Read More4 Reasons Why Your Time Matters
You have a family, a career, hobbies, and more. You know better than anyone that time is of the essence! Here are 4 ways to help you understand the importance of time and planning wisely. It’s easy to get caught doing the same...
Read MoreThe Sleeping Giant of the US Middle Market
There are numerous benefits in investing in the US middle market. With the average annual yield nearing 7%, the national middle market is ranked as the second highest contributor of revenue in the US economy, directly under the S&P 500...
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