Sarah Mahaffa, CFP®
Sr. Wealth Advisor and
Manager of Financial Planning
Life is full of major decisions that may cause one to feel overwhelmed and as a result, those decisions may get put on the back burner. My passion is to understand what is truly important to my clients, educate them on relevant strategies, and help to implement a plan they can have confidence in. As a Wealth Advisor, clients rely on me to plan for some of the largest financial transactions of their lives. Whether saving for education, planning for retirement, or navigating a transition of wealth due to death or divorce, planning is a critical component of a successful outcome.
Professional Financial Planning Experience
- 14 years of helping a diverse range of individuals with financial planning needs, wealth management strategies, and ultimately gaining clarity around their finances.
Career History
- Bedel Financial Consulting, Inc., Sr. Wealth Advisor & Manager of Financial Planning
- Charles Schwab, VP Financial Consultant
- Charles Schwab, Associate Financial Consultant
Educational and Professional Designations
- Certified Financial Planner™ certification
- Bachelor of Science, Management and Accounting, Purdue University
- Trained Financial Specialist for Collaborative Law divorces
- Advanced Women Leaders (AWL), Bloombase
Professional Activities & Accolades
- Women4Change, Finance Committee Member
- St. Joan of Arc School, PTO member
- CICF Professional Advisory Leadership Committee Member
- 2021 Indy’s Best and Brightest Finalist
- Integrating Woman Leaders, Former Board Co-Chair and Conference Planning Committee Chair
- Coburn Place, Former Board Treasurer
- Financial Planning Association
- Recipient of Five Star Wealth Manager Award, Indianapolis Monthly, 2018 - 2022
Check out more fun facts about Sarah:
BLOG POSTS
Challenges of the Sandwich Generation
According to the Pew Research Center, 15% of middle-aged adults will end up financially supporting a parent and a child at the same time. If you find yourself in that 15%, you’re part of what has become known as the Sandwich Generation. We discuss what you should think about if you find yourself being sandwiched between the two generations.
Opportunity Zone Investing
Opportunity zone investing might not be a phrase you’re familiar with, but they can be a nice tax advantage for those with unrealized capital gains in their portfolio. We explain what opportunity zone investing is, and how you can determine if this type of investing works for your portfolio.
Medicare and HSAs: Don’t Get Caught in the Dark
Medicare can create quite a bit of confusion: When should I enroll? What coverage do I need? What happens with my HSA? Unfortunately, if you’re contributing to a Health Savings Account, enrollment in Medicare can create an issue. Be sure you understand how Medicare will impact you and your family so you can make informed decisions about your health coverage and avoid any penalties.
The New Standard Deduction and Charitable Giving
The standard deduction has nearly doubled under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, and as a result, many may no longer itemize their deductions. We’ve outlined three options that will allow you to support the organizations you’re passionate about while also reducing your tax liability at the same time!
Maximizing Workplace Benefits
This time of year it is common for companies to allow employees to select what benefits programs they want to participate in for the coming year. Unfortunately, people don’t spend near enough time reviewing the options available to them.
Can you Afford to Play the Odds?
If you are 65 years old, you have a 70% chance of needing long-term care. Can you afford $90,000 per year? If not, you may want to include LTC insurance in your financial plan. Or, you can take the chance of being in the lucky 30%!
Health Insurance, HSAs and Adult Children - Your Questions
It has become increasingly popular to keep your “adult” children on your health insurance plan until age 26, but it’s not as simple as just letting them use your insurance coverage. Read on for the ins and outs of health insurance and HSAs and what that might mean for your adult children.
Retirement Communities: What’s the Appeal?
If you’re retired or planning to be soon, a Continuing Care Retirement Community might be a good option for you. Continued independence with the added bonus of on-site medical care, maintenance-free living and amenities galore can be a draw for many retirees. But it’s important to understand your options and the associated cost – all those amenities can come with a hefty price tag! Be sure you understand your options: Read on for all the details.
Retirement Distributions: The Exception to the Rule
Would you like to retire early? Want to take funds from your retirement accounts early to help make ends meet until your Social Security or pension kicks in? You can – provided you meet the criteria and follow all the rules! We have you covered with all the details!
Is Your Money Safe? Can the FDIC & SIPC Protect You?
If your bank or brokerage firm failed, do you know what would happen to your money and investments? Thankfully, FDIC and SIPC insurance is there to protect you and your savings, but only up to a specified amount. Find out just how much you’re covered!
Flexible Spending Account = Money Saved
How would you like to save on your next pair of glasses or your child’s preschool tuition? You don’t need a coupon and you won’t have to negotiate a deal – all you need is a Flexible Spending Account.
Collaborative Divorce: A Softer, More Congenial Approach
Preparing for a major event often involves a team of professionals. A wedding involves photographers, caterers, and florists. And people often seek ...