Christian West

Christian West

WEP and GPO Are Officially Repealed: What This Means for Your Social Security Benefits

In a major victory for retirees across the country, the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO) have officially been repealed. The Social Security Fairness Act (H.R. 82) was signed into law by President Biden on January 5, 2025, eliminating both provisions and re

The 3-Bucket Strategy for Retirement: A Simple Framework for Income

When it comes to building a sustainable income plan in retirement, managing risk and access to funds becomes just as important as generating returns. One popular approach that balances these priorities is the 3-Bucket Strategy—a framework that divides your retirement savings into three distinct “buc

3 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Financial Advisor

Choosing a financial advisor is a meaningful step toward building a confident and intentional financial future. Whether you're preparing for retirement, investing for long-term goals, or navigating a major life change, the right advisor can bring clarity, structure, and strategy to your decision-mak

Understanding Your W-4: What Tax Withholding Means for You

Taxes are a certainty—but surprise tax bills or unexpected refunds don’t have to be. One of the simplest ways to take control of your annual tax outcome is by understanding and adjusting your IRS Form W-4. Whether you’re starting a new job, going through a major life change, or just want more contro

Backdoor Roth IRA vs. Roth Conversion vs. Regular Roth Contribution: What’s the Difference?

When building a long-term retirement plan, Roth IRAs are often part of the conversation due to their tax-free growth and tax-free qualified withdrawals. But there are multiple ways to get money into a Roth IRA—and they are not all the same. Let’s break down three distinct strategies: Backdoor Roth I

The Importance of Periodic Financial Check-Ups: How a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ Professional Can Help

Financial planning is not a one-time event—it’s an ongoing process that requires regular attention. Life circumstances, market conditions, and tax laws change over time, making periodic financial check-ups an essential part of maintaining a well-structured financial plan. Why Financial Check-Ups Mat

Modern Portfolio Theory: How to Optimize Your Investment Portfolio

Investing is not just about picking the right assets—it’s about how those assets work together to achieve an optimal balance of risk and return. One of the most widely used frameworks in investment management is Modern Portfolio Theory (MPT). Developed by economist Harry Markowitz in 1952, MPT provi