Bedel Blog

Welcome to #AskBedel, a weekly personal-wealth Q&A where you can ask financial planning and investment experts for advice. Each week we’ll be answering your personal finance questions, so be sure to submit your questions to Bedel@BedelFinancial.com.

Investors need to consider the current environment when managing their return expectations in the coming years. If you are becoming concerned about higher valuations and fear a downturn, a strategy to consider is becoming more defensive with your equity allocations.

Not all target-date funds are the same. Investors choose a fund that roughly coincides with their planned retirement year, and over time, the funds adjust their holdings and become more conservative.

The American Rescue Plan (ARP) has more than just stimulus payments to offer. If you qualify for the enhanced child tax credit, be on the lookout for the IRS portal rollout in a few months. Many families have benefited from child tax credits in years past, but the enhanced credit differs in several ways.

There is no right or wrong way to manage personal finances as a couple. There are several budgeting approaches to consider. Be open and honest about your status and hash out a plan together.

Self-investors tend to select an asset allocation for their investment accounts and tend not to change anything as long as the performance is good. So what should you do?

While gas prices in Indiana are often below the national average, experts predict that the U.S.'s average price could exceed $4.00 per gallon later this summer. As prices at the pump increase, other transportation modes are also likely to see meaningful increases in their prices.

Just $1 too much could cost you your entire rebate. Reducing your adjusted gross income can help maximize your rebate without costing you a dime.

Only you will know if and when it's the right time to hire a financial professional. There's an advisor out there for everyone, whether you're looking for a one-time financial plan or a long-term, comprehensive relationship.

Purchasing a second home should not be an impulse decision. It requires diligent research and financial commitment. Before you buy, consider the consequences, estate issues, and more.

The BItcoin hype is back, but it is important to keep in mind that most of the companies investing in Bitcoin are doing so in very small amounts.

Helping a grandchild with their college expenses by putting money in their 529 is great! But do you know if contributions count as a gift or if the grandchild is a "skip person," or if it can hurt financial aid eligibility?