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RCS Advisors

RCS Advisors

Why the Traditional 20/4/10 Car Buying Rule No Longer Works for Many Families

The traditional 20/4/10 car buying rule once helped buyers avoid overspending but rising car prices, higher rates, and insurance costs are changing the math. Here’s how to think about car affordability in today’s market.

Student Loan Rules Are Changing Again: What Current Borrowers Need to Know Before July 1

Student loan repayment rules are changing July 1, and current borrowers may be affected more than they realize. If you are on an income-driven repayment plan, considering graduate school, or planning to borrow again, understanding the new rules could help you avoid costly surprises.

Rollover IRA vs. Traditional IRA: What’s the Difference?

If you’ve recently changed jobs, retired, or are trying

Social Security and Women: What Every Retirement Plan Should Consider

When it comes to retirement security, few programs are as important as Social Security benefits. And for women in particular, Social Security plays an outsized role in retirement income. According to data from the Social Security Administration, women make up the majority of Social Security benefici

A Quick Guide to Equity Compensation Types

What Type of Equity Do I Have and What Does It Actually Mean? Equity compensation is one of the most powerful and most misunderstood components of executive compensation. Stock options, restricted stock, and employee purchase plans can meaningfully enhance long-term wealth, but only if they are unde

From DIY Investing to Strategic Design: Why Investors Choose a Professional “Fit”

For years, you’ve handled it all. You’ve researched the funds, tracked the indices, balanced the spreadsheets, and managed the tax transitions. There is a certain pride in being a "DIY investor"—it requires discipline, intelligence, and a high level of control. But as wealth grows, so does comple

Strategy Matters: How Stress Testing Can Improve Financial Planning Decisions

Financial planning is often mistaken for a “set it and forget it” task. In reality, effective planning is an ongoing process that evolves as markets, tax laws, and personal goals change. At Rigden Capital Strategies, our approach emphasizes proactive review and thoughtful evaluation of planning stra

How Parents’ Real Estate Holdings Affect FAFSA and College Financial Aid Eligibility

For families preparing for college, understanding how assets are evaluated for financial aid purposes is an important part of the planning process. One area that often raises questions is how real estate ownership—particularly rental or investment property—is treated when completing the Free Applica

A Parent’s Guide to Paying for College: Coordinating Savings, Scholarships, and Student Loans

For many families, the cost of college is one of the biggest financial milestones they will plan for. Parents often want to help, whether by saving, offering guidance, or supporting their student’s decisions—but the process can feel overwhelming. The good news: with thoughtful coordination of saving

Paying for Graduate School: The Ultimate Guide

Graduate school is becoming an increasingly common step for students and professionals looking to advance their careers. Yet, the financial reality is changing—and fast. With the elimination of Grad PLUS loans beginning July 1, 2026, and new federal borrowing limits under the One Big Beautiful Bill