Brakke Financial Services

09/03/2026

You're ready to get serious about money. But what kind of goals are realistic and important at this stage in your life?

You're ready to get serious about money in your 30s. These five goals can set up your future, and there are ways to reach towards them.

09/01/2026

More kids than ever are learning about money. But where they're getting their information is crucial.

More kids than ever are learning about money. But where they’re getting their information is crucial.

08/30/2026

Retirement planning isn't just about how much you've saved. It's also about creating a strategy that can help support your lifestyle throughout retirement.

Research from the LIMRA Retirement Income Institute found that many Gen X women face unique retirement challenges, including lower retirement savings, caregiving responsibilities, and concerns about whether their money will last throughout retirement.

Understanding these factors early can help you make more informed decisions about your future. If you’d like to build a retirement strategy, let’s connect to review your long-term goals, expected expenses, and retirement income needs.

08/29/2026

The loss of a spouse can bring both emotional and financial challenges. Many people suddenly find themselves managing important financial decisions on their own for the first time.

Whether it's understanding income sources, reviewing beneficiary information, or discussing long-term retirement goals, you don't have to navigate these decisions alone.

If you or someone you care about is facing the loss of a spouse, contact me to discuss strategies that can help provide clarity, confidence, and financial security for the years ahead.

08/27/2026

Estate tax and inheritance tax are both often referred to as "death taxes," but they aren’t the same when it comes down to who pays.

08/25/2026

Some retirement expenses are difficult to predict, particularly when long-term care needs arise. This article examines how significant care-related costs can affect retirement spending and the longevity of a retirement portfolio.
https://bit.ly/4gwiMvd

08/23/2026

Your target retirement age is looming, but you're not sure you're on track to retire the way you want? Here are some action items to consider.

Your target retirement age is looming, but you're not sure you're on track to retire the way you want? Here's what to do.

08/20/2026

People often think of whole life insurance as solely protective. When you realize all the benefits Whole Life affords, it becomes easy to view it as a stabilizing and strengthening financial asset alongside others in a well-diversified portfolio. Learn more about what Whole Life has to offer.
https://nyl.co/4cv1ygs

08/19/2026

Unsure about the right time to invest?

Flying high or dipping low, timing the market is never easy. A dollar cost averaging (DCA) account, available within a variable annuity, removes the guesswork by investing in equities at regular intervals rather than all at once.

See our Dollar Cost Averaging Advantage (DCAA) Account interest rate, available for a limited time. https://bit.ly/3TdQH3C

A program of regular investing does not ensure a profit or eliminate the risks on investing. Variable annuities are offered only by prospectus. Please read the prospectus carefully before investing.

08/17/2026

The cost of long-term care can have a meaningful impact on individuals and their families. This article explores current cost considerations and how extended care needs may affect household finances and retirement plans.
https://bit.ly/4qklmsP