How to Simplify Your Charitable Giving

Clients frequently ask us for ways to make a bigger impact with their charitable donations while simplifying the giving process. One of the best ways to accomplish this is by using a donor-advised fund.
In Case You Missed It: Bryan on Houston Matters

Last week Bryan was a feature guest on Houston Matters, answering callers’ questions about financial planning, retirement, and general financial advice.
Is Your Retirement Planning Matching Up?

It’s no secret that the state of retirement readiness in America is lacking. Per a 2016 report by TIAA, nearly 2/3 of American adults surveyed said they were not concerned about running out of money in retirement.
2016 End of the Year Planning

The end of the year is already upon us and you’re likely busy getting prepared for the holidays.
Black Ink

We say we’re fine with the ups and downs but it still frustrates us when we see our accounts at a temporary loss.
Will on Houston Matters Discussing Social Security Changes

There’s a new Social Security rule going into effect at the end of this month, and it could impact when you decide to start collecting your benefits.
What Are You Retiring To?

Last week, I had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Michael Winters when we both appeared as guests on the Houston Matters radio program. During the program, we talked about both financial and non-financial aspects of transitioning to retirement, topics that are way too expansive to cover in a short radio segment.
Bryan on Houston Matters Discussing Retirement

In case you missed it, you can listen here to our very own Bryan Zschiesche discussing tips on transitioning to retirement with Houston Matters.
“Your long term and my long term are different.”

I recently had a conversation with a client in her early 60s who is about to retire. As we talked about keeping a long term perspective despite recent market pressures, she noted that “Your long term and my long term …
Year-End Gifting

Gifts and donations not only help individuals, organizations, and charities achieve their goals, but your gift may help you lower tax bill in April.
Social Security Benefits “Frozen” in 2016

Social Security benefits will not receive an inflation-adjustment increase for 2016. The announcement was made on October 15th via a press release from the Social Security Administration (SSA). According to the Social Security Act, cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) are not required …
Q3 2015 Newsletter

Our third quarter newsletter introduces you to Financial Synergies’ new hires, reminds us to continue being warrior investors, discusses our new relationship with Dimensional Fund Advisors, and more. Check it out below: Q3 2015 Newsletter from Financial Synergies Asset Management, …
Impressive Banking for Charles Schwab Account Holders

Banks these days are either gouging with hidden fees or requiring huge minimum balances. Since many of our clients have complex banking needs, I often refer them to Charles Schwab Bank.
Hear Bryan Discuss Financial Planning on Houston Matters

On Thursday, October 1st Bryan Zschiesche answered listener calls on 88.7 KUHF for Houston Matters on Retirement and Financial Planning. Listen to the recorded segment by clicking the play button below:
What’s Your Estate Plan?

My wife and I have a close friend who recently underwent a major heart operation. Like me, he’s in his early 30s and appeared to be in perfect health. Our friend visited a doctor earlier in the year regarding a …