Financial News and Articles with Melissa Carlson in Vadnais Heights MN

Insights

Use your Thrivent membership benefits for your community! One of my clients partnered with staff from the Crookston Education Association (CEA) to help provide 80 bags of food for students to take home over the weekend. With so many families struggling with food insecurity right now, this was a huge win for their students! They used our Thrivent Action Team program to kick start the project with $250 of seed money. If you want to know about how you can become a Thrivent member and have access to generosity programs like this please reach out! Disclosures: thrivent.com/social

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Sequence of returns risk: What it means for your retirementThe market can shift at any time, and big drops early in retirement could affect your savings. The right approach can help keep your savings resilient. Check out this article, then reach out to talk through ways to help protect your savings.👇

Help your money last in retirementA long life is a gift—let’s help make sure your finances can keep up. Start by building financial resilience against inflation, market swings, and rising health and care costs.

Should you get life insurance in your 20s? 5 reasons to consider itLife insurance may not be the first thing that comes to mind in your 20s. But did you know it can be more affordable when you’re younger and healthier? Here are some reasons to consider purchasing life insurance at an earlier age. ⬇️

What is the best way to save for retirement?Even if retirement seems far off, it’s important to plan ahead. By understanding the sources of your future retirement income, you can see where you stand and work to fill gaps. Let's connect and review your retirement plan together.

2025 Midyear Market OutlookWill market volatility continue into the second half of 2025? Thrivent leaders share thoughts on what may happen in the Midyear Market Outlook.

Budgeting 101: Definition, purpose & typesYour budget should work for you, not against you. Align your spending, saving and giving with your values—without guilt or stress. Start building a budget that supports your goals today.

Retirement savings by age: How much should you have?Planning for retirement can seem like a long and complex journey. Knowing how much to save is a foundational piece of achieving your retirement goals—check out these planning milestones based on your age.

Do you talk to your partner about finances regularly? Gabe and I got our Thrivent member magazine last night and one of the client stories was all about this. They also gave a list of these conversation starters. We talked through them while making dinner and I LOVED the question about if our spending was in line with our values as a couple. We even made some changes in our budget to realign with what's important to us. These conversations aren't always easy for couples. I challenge you to use this list to spark discussion with your partner this weekend. If you need a mediator to help get the ball rolling, let's set up a time to talk about how I help my clients have these fun and challenging conversations. Disclosures: thrivent.com/social

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8 ways to get serious about paying off student loan debtIs paying off your student loans high up on your priority list? Here are ways to pay off your loans faster, while managing your other financial priorities. ⬇️

You Graduated and Got the Job—Now What? 🎓💼 If you just walked across the stage this spring—congrats! Landing that first job is a huge milestone. But what are the next steps to becoming a financially independent adult? Here’s what I wish I had done sooner rather than later: ✅ Start an emergency fund—make it accessible, but not too accessible. Only tap into it for true emergencies. ✅ Understand your employee benefits (that 401(k) match? It’s literally free money!) ✅ Make a student loan repayment plan that works with your income and goals ✅ Start saving for long-term goals—even small, consistent contributions add up ✅ Watch out for lifestyle creep (just because you can spend more doesn’t mean you should) Your 20s are the perfect time to lay the groundwork for financial freedom. You don’t need to have it all figured out—but a little strategy now can make a big difference later. Need help getting started? Let’s talk—your future self will thank you. Disclosures: thrivent.com/social

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Thrivent Market & Economic updateIn case you missed it… Use the link below to watch Thrivent’s Economic & Market Update, hosted last week. It’s a non-political, level-headed discussion about tariffs, uncertainty, the possibility of a recession, and so much more (scary stuff, I know). Most importantly, learn how they do or don’t impact your portfolio as an individual investor and how we can plan to weather this storm. Give it a watch, and feel free to give me a call or send a DM with any questions or thoughts! Watch here: https://bit.ly/3GkXbYa See thrivent.com/social for important disclosures.

How to invest during a market downturnWondering if and how your investment portfolio needs to change during market downturn? While it’s important to not derail your longer-term investing goals by making large changes to your investment mix, there are investment options you can consider that tend to hold up even in downward economic times. ⬇️

Thrivent Social Media Privacy Policy, Guidelines, Disclosures & DisclaimersI recently spoke with a client about their charitable gift planning. This couple knew they wanted to leave a legacy gift after they passed but also wanted the flexibility to make various donations during their lifetime. We created a plan to do just that! The best part? Ownership is set to pass to their children and grandchildren, allowing their family's generosity to continue growing and thriving for generations. They are ensuring that this core value remains front and center for their family long after they're gone. Your legacy can be more than just dollars and cents. #Generosity #CharitableGiving #FinancialPlanning #Thrivent See thrivent.com/social for important disclosures.

💘 Cupid’s Guide to Wealth Building: Love Your Money, Grow Your Future 💵 Ready to fall in love with the idea of a secure financial future? It all starts with understanding the key principles of wealth building—and I’m here to guide you every step of the way. 💕 Here’s Cupid’s advice for setting your finances on the path to success: Set Your Heart on Saving 💖 – Just like any great love, your savings should be nurtured and grown over time. Set aside a little every month and watch your future bloom. 🌸 Date Your Investments 💘 – Commit to smart investments that will make your money work for you. From stocks to real estate, there’s a perfect match waiting for you. Spread the Love (Diversify) 💕 – Spread your wealth across different investments, so your love for financial security never fades. Variety is the spice of a strong financial relationship! 🌍 Cut the Heartbreak (Pay Off Debt) 💔➡️❤️ – Say goodbye to the high-interest debt that weighs you down. Free yourself to focus on building a future of financial freedom. There are many types of accounts and financial products available—whether it’s a retirement account, brokerage account, or real estate investment. Choosing the right ones depends on your goals, timeline, and risk tolerance. That’s why meeting with a financial advisor is key. Together, we’ll decide which products best serve your needs and set you up for success. 💡 Pro Tip: Wealth-building is a long-term commitment. Let’s create a plan that grows with you! I help people get to know their money and feel empowered in their financial journey. DM me to see how we can work together! See thrivent.com/social for important disclosures. #FallInLoveWithYourMoney #FinancialPlan #MoneyGoals #FinancialAdvisor #SmartMoneyMoves #WealthBuilding

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💖 It’s Time to Define the Relationship: Are You Committed to Your Finances? 💸Are you just casually budgeting, or are you in a long-term, committed relationship with your money? 💍💰 If you had to give it a label, where do you and your money stand today? "It's Complicated" 💔 – You’re not sure where your money is going, and your budget feels like an ex you’re still trying to figure out. I can help you work through the confusion and create a clear, actionable plan. "Single and Loving It" 💃 – You’ve got your finances under control all by yourself and you are living your best life. It’s time to move from solo saving to serious investing! You may not want to commit the time and energy to figuring out the stock market on your own. Let’s take it to the next level and make your money work harder for you. "In a Committed Relationship" 💑 – You’re already budgeting and saving, but maybe you’re ready to take the leap to long-term financial goals like retirement, real estate, or college savings. Let’s keep building this relationship for a secure future. "Married to Money" 💍 – You’ve got it all figured out and your financial strategy is locked in place. But hey, even the best relationships need a check-in every now and then. Let’s review your plan and make sure it’s still working for you! Pro Tip: Whether you’re just getting started or you’re ready to make a lifelong commitment to your money, a financial advisor can help you define and strengthen your financial relationship. I help people get to know their money and feel empowered in their financial journey. DM me to see how we can work together! See thrivent.com/social for important disclosures. #FallInLoveWithYourMoney #FirstDateWithYourFinances #FinancialPlan #MoneyGoals #FinancialAdvisor #SmartMoneyMoves #WealthBuilding

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Fall in Love With Your Money by Valentines Day💖 💖 Share the Love: The Importance of Generosity 💝 True love isn’t just about what we receive—it’s also about what we give. When it comes to finances, generosity is one of the most rewarding acts of all. 🌟 Here’s why sharing the love is a key part of your financial journey: The Power of Giving Back 🎁 – Giving not only helps others but also brings joy and fulfillment. Whether it's charity, helping a loved one, or supporting a cause, generosity fuels a sense of purpose. Boost Your Own Happiness 😊 – Studies show that giving can increase happiness and improve mental well-being. When you share your resources, you create positive energy that circles back to you. Building a Legacy of Love 💌 – Generosity leaves a lasting legacy. Whether you’re setting up a charity fund, contributing to a family member’s education, or investing in a cause, your giving is a part of the legacy you create for future generations. 🌱 Financial Balance ⚖️ – Generosity, when balanced with your financial goals, can enhance your overall financial well-being. A healthy relationship with money includes both enjoying it and using it to lift others. Pro Tip: The key to sustainable generosity is planning. Let’s discuss how you can incorporate giving into your financial plan without compromising your own goals. I help people get to know their money and feel empowered in their financial journey. DM me to see how we can work together! See thrivent.com/social for important disclosures. #FallInLoveWithYourMoney #ShareTheLove #Generosity #GivingBack #FinancialWellBeing #LegacyOfLove #FinancialAdvisor #WealthWithPurpose

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Your First Date with Your Finances💸 In honor of Valentines Day coming up, let's talk about how you can fall in love with your money! ❤️ A "first date" with your finances is all about getting to know each other —your income, your expenses, and setting goals for the future. 📊✨ Like any first date, you may find some quirks you didn't know about or a few BIG 🚩 red flags 🚩... but unlike that terrible match from a dating app, you can't ignore your finances forever. What does this actually look like? ❤️ It's a date! Set aside a couple of hours for this and show up as the best version of yourself. ❤️ Get clear on your goals. Make at least one short-, medium-, and long-term goal. ❤️ Look at your account statements and find out if you're happy with where your money is going. ❤️ Be honest with yourself and your spending. ❤️ If that sounds too scary to do by yourself - these are the kind of conversations I have with clients every day. DM me and we can set up a complementary first session! Pro Tip: It’s all about the foundation. Start simple, be honest, and let’s build a plan you're in love with. I help people get to know their money and feel empowered in their financial journey. DM me to see how we can work together! See thrivent.com/social for important disclosures. #FallInLoveWithYourMoney #FirstDateWithYourFinances #FinancialPlan #MoneyGoals #FinancialAdvisor #SmartMoneyMoves #WealthBuilding

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Celebrate Your Wins & Stay on Track in 2025 🎉💸 I started paying extra on my mortgage every month. I was so excited, expecting the balance to drop dramatically. But each time I logged in, it felt like nothing was changing—just a tiny dent. 😓 Then, I checked the payoff date, and *that’s* where I saw the magic. ✨ I'm now on track to pay if off YEARS ahead of schedule, all thanks to a couple hundred extra dollars a month. That moment reminded me that even when progress feels slow, consistency is working behind the scenes to create big results. 🌟 Celebrate Wins (Big & Small) - Paid off a credit card? 🎉 Incredible! - Stuck to your budget this week? 🙌 High five! - Put extra money into your emergency fund? 👏 You’re crushing it! 🗓️ Check-In Regularly Make it a habit to review your progress: - Review your budget 📊 - Track your savings goals 💰 - Check long-term metrics like payoff dates 🔄 Progress isn’t always obvious, but over time, those little wins add up to something huge. By celebrating every step and creating regular check-ins, you’ll stay motivated and on track to achieve your goals. What’s one win you’re celebrating this week? Let’s hear it—I’m cheering you on! 🥳 I help people get to know their money and feel empowered on their financial journey. 💪 Let’s work together—DM me! See thrivent.com/social for important disclosures. #FinancialFreedom #Budgeting #FinancialPlanning #MoneyManagement #2025Goals #EmpowerYourMoney 💡

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Build Your Dream Team for a 2025 Financial Reset 🏆💼 It’s time to assemble your financial Dream Team—the 2025 version of the basketball legends (but with calculators and contracts instead of slam dunks 🏀💰). Here's who should make your roster: 📈 Financial Advisor – The point guard of your money, helping you plan, invest, and crush your goals. 👨‍⚖️ Attorney – Your defense specialist, protecting your assets and handling estate planning. 📊 Tax Preparer or Accountant – The playmaker, finding ways to maximize deductions and keep Uncle Sam off your back. 💵 ✨ Additional All-Stars: 🏠 Real Estate Agent – The sharpshooter who helps you score your dream home. 💊 Insurance Agent – Your go-to for covering every base, from health to home. 🧠 Therapist or Money Coach – Your mindset coach, making sure you stay in the game mentally and emotionally. 🌟 Don’t forget your biggest fans: Surround yourself with friends and family who hype you up and support your financial goals. Everyone needs a solid bench squad cheering them on! This year, you’re not just playing to win the game—you’re going for gold. 🏆 Who’s making your Dream Team for 2025? Let me know! 💬 I help people get to know their money and feel empowered on their financial journey. 💪 Let’s work together—DM me! See thrivent.com/social for important disclosures. #FinancialFreedom #Budgeting #FinancialPlanning #MoneyManagement #2025Goals #EmpowerYourMoney 💡

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