News & Insights - Ascend National Wealth Advisors, Financial Advisors in Bellevue, WA

Most of us were raised to think finances are private, maybe even a bit uncomfortable to discuss. But I’ve come to realize those conversations are where real growth happens—for our families and ourselves. I’ve seen it play out plenty of times: Maybe it’s talking to aging parents about their plans for the future (never an easy topic). Or sitting down with your spouse to set some real goals instead of just handling bills as they pop up. Sometimes it’s even about making sure kids understand money’s value without making it a source of stress. What I’m picking up is that these talks are rarely just about dollars and cents. They’re really about what we value, what we dream about, and how we can work together. Starting the conversation can honestly feel vulnerable—but over time, it can build more trust and understanding. Here are a couple of things that help me (and the folks I work with): • Pick a relaxed time—no distractions, no pressure. • Stay curious—ask questions, listen more than you talk. • Remember: It’s normal to have different perspectives. The goal isn’t to “win,” it’s to understand each other. I don’t have all the answers, but I do know having these conversations—awkward as they can be—pays off way more than avoiding them. If you’ve ever put off a money chat with someone important to you, maybe now’s a good time to try. You might be surprised by what comes out of it. If you want to bounce some ideas around or need a place to start, I’m always up for a conversation. - Learn more: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: thrivent.com/social

Mortgage rates are climbing, credit card APRs are at multi-year highs, and the cost of borrowing keeps increasing—so what does this all mean when it comes to your financial decisions? This fall: • Average 30-year mortgage rates have moved above 7.2% for the first time since 2000. • Credit card interest rates have topped 20% APR, with household balances reaching new highs. • While savings accounts now offer over 4.5% annual yield, that boost comes with challenges for borrowers. Here’s what matters: • Reacting emotionally—pausing investments or taking on new debt without a solid plan—can jeopardize long-term goals. • True financial advice means considering your full financial picture: housing, debt, savings, and investments—not just the latest rate headline. Takeaway: Your path to financial success requires more than “wait and see” or chasing the latest trend. Ready to make the most of today’s rates and keep your goals on track? Let’s build a plan that works for you in every rate environment. . . . My team: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: thrivent.com/social Sources: Federal Reserve Economic Data, Bankrate, WSJ, Freddie Mac.

“I’m considering selling our family home and downsizing—will this really improve our financial picture?” This is one of the most common questions we’re hearing from clients in today’s housing market. With property values high and lifestyle needs changing after 50, moving to a smaller home—or relocating to a lower-cost area—can appear tempting. But is it the right move for your unique situation? Here’s what we’re discussing with clients right now: → Potential Windfall: Selling at today’s prices might provide a significant cash boost. For 2025, couples can exclude up to $500,000 of home sale gains from capital gains tax if they meet IRS requirements. → Hidden Costs of Moving: Factor in real estate agent fees (typically 5-6%), moving costs, upgrades needed to sell the home, and potential HOA fees in a new location. → Lifestyle & Community: Think beyond the numbers. Are you ready for a new neighborhood, or would you miss local ties and amenities? Consider how a move would affect your daily routines and relationships. → Future Flexibility: Downsizing can free up assets for travel or legacy goals, but it could also impact your ability to host family or age in place comfortably. Key Questions to Ask Yourself: ❓ What will my net proceeds be after accounting for all selling and buying costs? ❓ How will a smaller home impact my ongoing housing, maintenance, and healthcare needs? ❓ Am I emotionally ready to leave this chapter—and what am I most looking for in the next? For many, downsizing is about more than just dollars—it’s a lifestyle decision that should support your goals, values, and financial peace of mind. Want to talk through whether it’s a smart time to downsize, or run the numbers for your own scenario? Let’s connect about your best next steps. . . My team: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: thrivent.com/social IRS, Exclusion of Gain from Sale of Principal Residence, 2025.

“Is it risky to keep too much cash in retirement?” This is a question I hear often from retirees who want to feel secure—but also want their money working for them. Here’s how we break it down: → Safety vs. Growth: Keeping extra cash can help you sleep at night, but over time, inflation can quietly erode its value. → The Right Balance: We typically recommend enough cash to cover 6–12 months of living expenses and upcoming big purchases. The rest can be invested for growth or income. → Your Comfort Zone: Some clients feel best with a bigger cushion, while others prefer to put more to work in the market. Your plan should reflect your unique needs and peace of mind. The goal? Security today, growth for tomorrow. Not sure if your cash strategy is on track? Connect with us: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: thrivent.com/social

Ascend National Wealth Advisors, Financial Advisors in Bellevue, WA | Thrivent

“How can I make my charitable giving go further in retirement?” This is a question I love helping clients explore—because generosity can be one of the most meaningful parts of your next chapter. With Thrivent, you have access to a suite of charitable tools and programs designed to amplify your impact: → Thrivent Charitable Impact & Investing®️: Set up a donor-advised fund, endowment, or charitable trust to support the causes that matter most to you, with expert guidance every step of the way. → Thrivent Choice®️: Direct Choice Dollars or make personal donations to over 45,000 nonprofits—Thrivent pays the processing fees, so your gift goes further. → Thrivent Action Teams: Lead a volunteer project or fundraiser in your community—Thrivent provides seed money and resources to help you make a difference. → Thrivent Cause Kits: Bring friends or family together for a hands-on service project, right from home. Whether you want to support your church, fund scholarships, or respond to urgent needs, we can build a giving plan that reflects your values and fits your financial picture. Let’s talk about how you can leave a legacy of generosity. Connect with us: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: thrivent.com/social

“Should I start taking Social Security at 62 or wait?” This is one of the most common questions I get from clients approaching retirement. Here’s what we look at together: → Monthly Benefit: Claiming at 62 means smaller checks for life, while waiting increases your benefit each year up to age 70. → Longevity & Health: If you expect a longer retirement, waiting can pay off. If you need income sooner, starting earlier may make sense. → Other Income Sources: Do you have pensions, savings, or part-time work to bridge the gap if you wait? There’s no universal answer—just the one that fits your goals, health, and lifestyle. Curious which strategy is right for you? Connect with us: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: thrivent.com/social

Ascend National Wealth Advisors, Financial Advisors in Bellevue, WA | Thrivent

🕰️ “Should I worry about a ‘Lost Decade’ for stocks?” It’s a real debate right now. Some forecasts call for S&P 500 returns as low as 3% a year over the next decade—far less than we’ve seen recently. But history shows that even during tough stretches, opportunity isn’t lost for everyone. Here’s what I remind clients: 1. A ‘lost decade’ means the major indexes might tread water, but not all investments will 2. Chasing last decade’s winners or concentrating in a few big names can backfire 3. What worked in the 2000s? Diversification. Bonds, small caps, and global stocks often outperformed the S&P 500 during the last “lost decade”. 🔎 What matters now: 🔹 Spread your risk—don’t bet everything on one sector or region 🔹 Stay invested and keep adding steadily if you’re still building wealth 🔹 Remember: a flat market can be a buying opportunity for disciplined investors A “lost decade” isn’t about lost hope—it’s about having a plan that works regards of headlines. . . . My team: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: Thrivent.com/social

Ascend National Wealth Advisors, Financial Advisors in Bellevue, WA | Thrivent

🛑 “Why would my Social Security retirement benefits get suspended?” It’s a question I’m hearing more as new rules roll out in 2025. The Social Security Administration is tightening up on compliance, and even small oversights can put your payments at risk. Here’s what’s causing suspensions this year: - Missing new in-person verification requirements or failing to update your personal details with SSA - Earning more than allowed if you’re collecting before full retirement age (for 2025, that’s $22,320—go over, and $1 is withheld for every $2 above the limit) - Not reporting major life changes like marriage, divorce, or moving - Extended travel outside the U.S. without proper notification - Ignoring requests for paperwork or deadlines If your payments are suspended, they won’t resume until the issue is corrected, which can take time. For retirees, even a short gap can create real hardship. This is where having a financial team on your side makes a difference. With professionals keeping an eye on rule changes, deadlines, and paperwork, you’re far less likely to miss something important. Your team can help you stay organized, respond quickly to SSA requests, and make sure your information is always up to date. Staying proactive—and having dependable experienced people in your corner—can help you avoid unnecessary interruptions and keep your retirement income on track. . . . My team: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: Thrivent.com/social Thrivent financial advisors and professionals have general knowledge of the Social Security tenets. For complete details on your situation, contact the Social Security Administration.

🏠 “Should I pay off my mortgage before retirement?” It depends. The right choice can free up cash flow—or tie up too much in your house. Here’s what I tell my clients: - Paying off your mortgage means fewer monthly bills and greater financial confidence - But it can also reduce your liquidity and limit investment growth - The best timing? When you have enough set aside for emergencies and long-term needs 🔎Key considerations: 🔹Make sure you’re not sacrificing retirement savings just to be debt-free 🔹Compare your mortgage rate to what your investments are earning 🔹Remember: flexibility is valuable—sometimes keeping a low-rate mortgage makes more sense Financial freedom in retirement isn’t just about owning your home—it’s about making choices that fit your bigger picture. . . . My team: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: Thrivent.com/social

It's being reported that the US trade deficit has shrunk by 56%—but what does it mean for you? April saw the US trade deficit fall from $138.3 billion to $61.6 billion—a record 56% drop in just one month. Imports plunged 16%, partly because companies rushed to bring in goods earlier this year ahead of new tariffs, and exports ticked up slightly. On the surface, a shrinking deficit can boost GDP this quarter. But it’s not all good news: tariffs and shifting trade policy are disrupting global supply chains and may push prices higher for everyday goods. Here’s what I’m telling clients: - Big headlines rarely tell the whole story. - Trade numbers can swing sharply from policy changes, but your long-term plan shouldn’t. - Stay focused on what you can control—spending, saving, and how your portfolio is positioned for both growth and resilience. In times of big economic shifts, steady hands build lasting wealth.

Last year, we worked with a new client and what truly stood out was her passion for boxer dogs and her dedication to volunteering with a local boxer rescue. That detail stuck with us. Before we wrapped up, she mentioned an annual fundraiser she was organizing and asked if we could help her apply for an action team. We made a note to follow up—and a few months later, we hopped on Zoom to walk her through the process. Simple, supportive, and exactly what she needed. Fast forward to last week: we received a photo and a heartfelt message from her, sharing how her team came together for the fundraiser and thanking us for our support. It was a small gesture on our part, but it meant a lot to her—and it reminded us why we do what we do. Working with us is about more than numbers. Sometimes, the most meaningful part of our work is showing up for what matters most to our clients—whether that’s navigating a major life transition or championing a cause close to their heart. We’re grateful to be part of stories like these and honored by the trust our clients place in us, even in the small moments. You can learn more and help support Carolina Boxer Rescue by visiting their website: https://carolinaboxerrescue.org/ . . . My Team: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: thrivent.com/social 📍#boxerpalooza | #carolinaboxerrescue | #myrtlebeach 📍#thrivent | #thriventactionteams | #generosity

Welcome! You are invited to join a webinar: Will Your Taxes Affect Your Retirement?. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the webinar.

🔍 Will Your Taxes Follow You Into Retirement? 💼 You’re ready to leave behind the daily grind, commutes, and maybe even your current home when you retire. But one thing you can’t leave behind? Your tax bill. Join us for a live webinar where we’ll break down: ✅ How different investments are taxed in retirement ✅ Strategies to potentially lower your tax bracket ✅ Key decisions to help keep more of your hard-earned money Choose a session that fits your schedule: 🗓️ March 26, 2025 | 12:00 PM (PT) 🗓️ March 27, 2025 | 5:30 PM (PT) 💡 Why attend? - No sales pitch—just actionable insights. - Learn how to align your retirement plan with tax-smart strategies. - Q&A time to address your specific concerns. 🔗 Reserve your spot today! https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/9017406111199/WN_6aUuOz5HReKioYAIrecdgw#/registration Let’s build a retirement plan that works as hard as you did. Important Disclosures: No products will be sold. Thrivent financial advisors/professionals have general knowledge of Social Security tenets. For details on your situation, contact the Social Security Administration. Thrivent does not provide legal, accounting, or tax advice. Consult your attorney/tax professional. Full disclosures: thrivent.com/social. #RetirementPlanning #TaxStrategies #FinancialFreedom #SmartInvesting (Investment advisory services offered through Thrivent. 27878-15M R11-20)

Attention Charleston: Your Retirement Strategy Can’t Wait⏳ 🎥Golden Strategies Watch Party March 5 | 2:30-4:30 PM PST | Fairfield Inn & Suites, North Charleston Join us for an in-person, complimentary watch party of Thrivent’s Golden Strategies Workshop, featuring Eric W. Bilger, FIC (Thrivent Advisor) breaking down: → Income management in volatile markets → Estate planning blind spots → Tax strategies to keep your money growing What to expect: ✔️ No sales pitch – just actionable tools ✔️ Live Q&A with advisors (bring your questions!) ✔️ Light bites + refreshments This in-person workshop is designed for anyone who will be retiring soon, has recently retired, or is well into their retirement (it's never too late to optimize!) To secure your spot 📩 jeffrey.malott@thrivent.com Or message me directly Not local? Register for the webinar here: bit.ly/golden190 . . . No products sold. Not legal/tax advice. See thrivent.com/social. 27764-12FB R2-24

Feeling nervous about the markets? Here are three actionable steps to stay ahead👇 1️⃣ Turn Losses Into Tax Savings: Use tax-loss harvesting to sell underperforming assets and offset gains. Avoid the “wash sale” rule by waiting 30 days before repurchasing similar assets. 2️⃣ Rebalance Your Portfolio: Rising interest rates mean stocks and bonds may be out of sync with your goals. Reallocate to maintain your target risk level and take advantage of market dips. 3️⃣ Build a Liquidity Cushion: Keep 6–12 months of expenses in cash or cash equivalents. This prevents you from selling investments at a loss during downturns. Volatility creates opportunity—if you have a plan. Need help navigating the ups and downs? Let’s talk! . . . My Team: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: thrivent.com/social

❌ 'I’ll just wait until retirement to figure out my taxes.' This approach can cost you big time. Here’s why proactive tax planning is crucial: → Retirement accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs are tax-deferred, not tax-free. Every dollar withdrawn is taxable income. → Tax rates today may be lower than they will be in the future. Waiting could mean paying more later. → Strategies like Roth Conversions or charitable giving require time to implement effectively. The earlier you start planning, the more options you have to manage your tax bill in retirement. Are you thinking ahead about how taxes will impact your retirement income? . . . My team: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: Thrivent.com/social

"Should I take a lump sum pension payout or monthly payments?" A client asked this in a recent meeting. Here’s how we helped: → Flexibility vs. Stability: A lump sum offered investment control, while monthly payments provided guaranteed income—subject to the pension provider’s financial health. → Longevity Risk: With a family history of long lifespans, monthly payments ensured income no matter how long they lived, though we also considered inflation's impact on purchasing power. → Tax Implications: We planned a tax-efficient strategy for rolling over the lump sum into an IRA to avoid immediate taxation. When deciding, consider: - Your need for steady income vs. investment control. - Longevity and health factors. - Tax strategies to maximize your benefits. Every situation is unique—let’s talk about what’s right for you. . . . My Team: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: thrivent.com/social

Is your retirement plan inflation-proof? With prices still climbing faster than we'd like, your retirement savings might not stretch as far as you thought. Here's a quick reality check: ➡️ The "4% rule" might not cut it anymore Traditional wisdom says you can withdraw 4% annually But with inflation around 3%, that math gets shaky ➡️ Healthcare costs are outpacing inflation Medical expenses are rising at 2x the general inflation rate Have you factored this into your retirement budget? ➡️ Social Security isn't keeping pace 2024's COLA was 3.2%, but many retirees say it's not enough Are you relying too heavily on these benefits? Reminder: Revisit your retirement plan annually. What worked last year might not work today. Worried your nest egg might crack under inflation pressure? Let's review your strategy and explore ways to fortify your financial future. My Team: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: thrivent.com/social

You HAVE to combine finances when you get married!" Really? Says who? 🤔 After working with hundreds of couples, here's what I know: The "perfect" way to manage money in marriage doesn't exist. What I see working: → Fully Combined: One pot, shared decisions (Often great for couples building wealth together from the start) → Fully Separate: My money, your money (Can work beautifully, especially for those merging lives later) → Hybrid Approach: Shared bills, separate spending (The "best of both worlds" for many couples) Here's the truth: The method matters less than the mindset. What counts is open communication and shared financial goals. Getting married or need help finding your financial rhythm as a couple? Let's talk about what could work best for YOU. . . . My Team: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: thrivent.com/social

🗣️ 'I don’t need life insurance—I already have savings.' This is a common mindset I hear, and while savings are important, they serve a different purpose. Here’s the reality: → Savings can run out. Life insurance provides a guaranteed death benefit to protect your loved ones. → Savings grow slowly. Life insurance can offer tax-advantaged growth and liquidity options. → Savings are for living. Life insurance is for legacy. It’s not about choosing one over the other—it’s about creating a balanced strategy that protects your family and builds generational wealth. Have you considered how life insurance fits into your financial plan? . . . My Team: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: Thrivent.com/social

"How can I protect my estate before the 2026 tax exemption drop?" The clock is ticking on a major tax change. Here's what you need to know Estate tax exemption could drop by ~50% in 2026 From $13.61M to ~$7M per person That's a potential 40% tax hit on the difference Smart moves to consider now: ➡️Lifetime gifting to lock in today's higher exemption ➡️Maximizing annual tax-free gifts ($18k per recipient in 2024) ➡️Exploring trusts to protect assets and reduce tax exposure Don't wait. Planning takes time and current market conditions may offer unique opportunities Remember: This isn't just for the ultra-wealthy. If you own a business, real estate, or have significant savings, you could be affected. Want to stress-test your estate plan? Let's talk. . . . My Team: thrivent.com/ascend Disclosures: thrivent.com/social This is general information, not personalized advice. Consult tax and legal professionals for your specific situation.

News and Insights