The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES)Act, is a piece of legislation that has been implemented to help aid those who have been financially affected during these unprecedented times. Many of the provisions are specific to retirement accounts.
CARES Act changes are:
Hardship Loans
The maximum loan amount that can be borrowed from an employer plan has been increased to $100,000 for affected individuals. Loan payments due in 2020 are also delayed until 2021.
Contribution Deadline
The IRA contribution deadline has been pushed back to July 15, 2020 along with the 2019 tax filing deadline.
Early Distributions
The CARES Act waives the 10% early distribution penalty for distributions of up to $100,000 from both employer and individual retirement accounts for individuals who meet any of the following requirements:
You, a spouse, or dependent has been diagnosed with COVID-19;
Experience adverse financial consequences as a result of being quarantined, furloughed, laid off, or having work hours reduced because of the disease;
Are unable to work because they lack childcare as a result of the disease; or
Own a business that has closed or operate under reduced hours because of the disease.
These distributions are not subject to mandatory withholding requirements, and the income from the distribution can be spread out over three tax years. Individuals have three years to return any or all of the distribution taken to the account.
Required Minimum Distributions
Required Minimum Distributions due in 2020 have been waived. This change applies to any distribution that needed to be taken in 2020. Some individuals may want to return their 2020 RMD to their account if they have already taken it. They can return all or a portion of the distribution to the account if they meet certain requirements. Also, 2020 is no longer counted for purposes of the 5-year rule. For non-designated beneficiaries either set to begin their 5-year distribution period, or for those already in the middle of it, 2020 can be skipped entirely.
Editors Note: This article was submitted by Erin Weber, CFP, Vice President, Investments with Weber Group at Raymond James.
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Hearing loss is common as we get older, but that doesn't mean it should be ignored. For many older adults, hearing changes happen gradually. They may not realize how much their hearing has changed, or they may become accustomed to asking people to repeat themselves, turning up the television, or avoiding conversations in noisy environments.Family members are often among the first people to notice that an older loved one may be having difficulty hearing. Recognizing the signs and approaching the subject with patience and understanding can make it easier for a senior to receive the hearing care they need.Understanding Hearing Loss in Older AdultsAge-related hearing loss can develop slowly over time. Rather than suddenly losing the ability to hear, an older adult may gradually have more difficulty understanding certain voices, following conversations, or hearing higher-pitched sounds.Hearing loss can affect more than the ability to hear words. It can make communication more challenging and may cause an older adult to miss important information or feel frustrated during conversations.Because hearing loss often develops gradually, a person may not realize that others are speaking normally while their ability to hear and understand has changed.Signs Your Loved One May Have Hearing LossFamily members may notice signs of hearing loss before an older adult recognizes them.Some common signs include: Frequently asking others to repeat themselves Turning the television or radio volume up very high Having difficulty following conversations Struggling to hear in restaurants or other noisy environments Frequently misunderstanding what people say Having difficulty hearing on the telephone Watching people's faces closely while they speak Complaining that everyone seems to mumble Avoiding social gatherings or group conversations Responding inappropriately because they misunderstood a question If several of these behaviors sound familiar, it may be worthwhile to encourage your loved one to have their hearing evaluated.Hearing Loss Can Affect More Than CommunicationIt can be easy to think of hearing loss as simply a problem with hearing conversations. However, communication difficulties can affect many areas of an older adult's daily life.Someone who struggles to hear may become frustrated when talking with family and friends. They may stop participating in group conversations because they cannot follow what is being said.Over time, an older adult may begin avoiding restaurants, community activities, family gatherings, or other social situations where hearing is difficult.Helping a loved one address hearing difficulties can make it easier for them to remain engaged with the people and activities they enjoy.Why Some Seniors Resist Hearing CareIt isn't unusual for an older adult to be reluctant to acknowledge hearing loss.They may believe that their hearing is "good enough," feel embarrassed about needing hearing aids, or worry that others will view them differently. Some people may also assume that hearing loss is simply an unavoidable part of aging.Family members should approach the conversation with compassion rather than criticism.Instead of saying, "You can't hear anything anymore," try explaining how better hearing could make everyday conversations easier and help your loved one stay connected with family and friends.Start the Conversation With UnderstandingTalking about hearing loss can be sensitive. Choose a quiet, comfortable time to discuss your concerns rather than bringing up the subject during a frustrating conversation.You might explain that you've noticed they are having difficulty hearing and that you would like to help them find out why.It can also help to make the conversation about their quality of life rather than focusing on what they are doing wrong.For example, you can point out that a hearing evaluation could help them hear conversations more comfortably at family gatherings, restaurants, or other activities they enjoy.Encourage a Hearing EvaluationIf you or your loved one notices signs of hearing difficulty, the next step is a professional hearing evaluation.A hearing evaluation can help determine whether hearing loss is present and provide information about the type and degree of hearing difficulty.Depending on the results, a hearing professional can discuss available options and help determine what may be appropriate for the individual's hearing needs and lifestyle.It's important not to purchase hearing aids simply because someone else has had success with a particular model. Hearing needs vary from person to person, so professional guidance is valuable.Hearing Aids May HelpFor some people with hearing loss, hearing aids can make communication easier.Modern hearing aids come in a variety of styles and features. A hearing professional can help determine which options may be appropriate based on an individual's hearing loss, lifestyle, comfort, and personal preferences.It can take some time for a person to adjust to wearing hearing aids. Family members can support the process by being patient and encouraging their loved one as they become comfortable with their devices.How Family Members Can Improve CommunicationEven when an older adult is receiving treatment for hearing loss, family members can make conversations easier.Try these simple communication strategies:Get Their Attention FirstMake sure your loved one knows you are speaking to them before beginning a conversation.Face Them When You SpeakFacing the person can make communication easier and allows them to see your facial expressions and other visual cues.Reduce Background NoiseTurn off the television or move to a quieter area when having an important conversation.Speak ClearlySpeak at a natural pace and avoid shouting. Speaking louder does not always make speech easier to understand.Be PatientGive your loved one time to process what you've said and respond. If they don't understand, try rephrasing the statement rather than simply repeating the same words louder.Don't Ignore Sudden Hearing ChangesWhile gradual hearing loss is common, sudden changes in hearing should not be ignored.If an older adult experiences sudden hearing loss, particularly in one ear, they should seek prompt medical attention. Sudden hearing changes can have different causes and may require urgent evaluation.Other symptoms such as dizziness, severe ear pain, drainage, or sudden neurological symptoms should also be evaluated by a healthcare professional.Hearing Care Can Help Older Adults Stay ConnectedHearing is an important part of maintaining relationships and participating in everyday life. When an older adult has difficulty hearing, the effects can extend beyond conversations.Families can play an important role by recognizing potential signs of hearing loss, approaching the subject with compassion, and encouraging professional hearing care.If you suspect that a parent, grandparent, spouse, or another loved one is experiencing hearing loss, don't wait until communication becomes extremely difficult. A professional hearing evaluation can provide valuable information and help your loved one understand their options.Darrell M. Sipe Opticians & Hearing Aids provides hearing care services designed to help individuals better understand their hearing needs and explore appropriate solutions.Better hearing can mean more meaningful conversations, greater participation, and more opportunities to stay connected with the people who matter most.If you're concerned about a loved one's hearing, start the conversation today. A hearing evaluation can be an important first step toward better communication and a better quality of life.
Your financial goals, aspirations and investment needs are just that yours. And your financial plan should reflect that. So rather than ask you to settle for an off-the-shelf investment program, Weber Group at Raymond James is here to provide you with personalized financial planning based on your goals, your time frame and your particular tolerance for risk.We can provide you with just the right combination of financial services, support and guidance that make the most sense for you. Well also be there to help you each step of the way in the pursuit of your personal financial goals.Theres more to your financial life than just investments. Comprehensive planning encompasses an in-depth review and analysis of all aspects of your financial life to help you see the big picture and enable us to personalize a plan for addressing every detail.Our principal belief is that everything begins with a well-designed financial plan. Were highly adept at seeing the big picture of your financial life, and then addressing all the details that make the plan work including identifying and resolving any gaps that may have previously been overlooked.At Raymond James, we have a straightforward approach to doing business. We believe that putting clients needs first is the best way to ensure their success and, in turn, the long-term success of our advisors and the company. We call this our Service 1stSM philosophy. With our strong focus on clients and our commitment to supporting those who serve them, weve become known as the premier alternative to Wall Street, providing the products, services and support of even the largest firms, within an environment that values strong, personal relationships.Raymond James focuses on doing what's right for its clients, associates and communities. And as you'll find in the firm's Corporate Responsibility Report, this commitment drives our mission to build a more sustainable future for all through environmental, social and governance best practices.Sticking to our core principles of client first, conservatism, independence and integrity, Raymond James has steadily grown to become one of the largest independent financial services firms in the industry, but our core values ensure well never be so big that we dont have time for what matters most: you and your family.The markets change, but our values will always be the same. Client first is at our core, supported by conservatism, independence and integrity.Erin Weber is a vice president of investments with Raymond James, for the office in Cranberry, Pennsylvania. She is a founding partner of the Weber Group, a team within a team approach, at Raymond James. Erin works alongside her father, Senior Vice President of Investments Al Weber. Along with assistant, Katie Burr, the team strives to give clients a comprehensive investment experience by providing a high level of service, through shared expertise, for the individual and institution. With over 30 years of financial experience, there is a strong likelihood the team has interacted or worked with someone in a situation very similar to yours.She holds both bachelors and masters degrees from The Pennsylvania State University, along with the Series 7 and 66 securities licenses. Erin is a licensed agent for life, accident and health insurance. She has her Executive Certificate in Financial Planning from Duquesne University and is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER practitioner. Erin also is a Certified Personal Finance Counselor professional and a member of the Financial Planning Association. She has presented at international, national and state conferences in the field of education and co-authored multiple papers in the area of maximizing educator effectiveness. Based on her background in educational innovations, Erin strongly believes that she can best assist individuals and families by helping them understand the concept and elements of financial planning.Erin is advisory board president of Pennsylvania State University, New Kensington, and has mentored professionals and students from multiple universities. She is guiding several initiatives to help women and college students become financially literate and is the Vice Chairman of the Center for Financial Literacy at Penn State Behrend. Erin is a member of the Womens Leadership Council for the United Way, and volunteers at The Center for Women, Pennsylvania Women Work and Strong Women, Strong Girls. Because of her significant involvement in helping and mentoring women, she was a 2020 ATHENA Award nominee.She is very active in the area of physical fitness and won an international video contest promoting a healthy lifestyle. Erin also enjoys golfing and is a life-long resident of the Pittsburgh area, currently residing in Wexford, Pennsylvania.
Your financial goals, aspirations and investment needs are just that yours. And your financial plan should reflect that. So rather than ask you to settle for an off-the-shelf investment program, Weber Group at Raymond James is here to provide you with personalized financial planning based on your goals, your time frame and your particular tolerance for risk.We can provide you with just the right combination of financial services, support and guidance that make the most sense for you. Well also be there to help you each step of the way in the pursuit of your personal financial goals.Theres more to your financial life than just investments. Comprehensive planning encompasses an in-depth review and analysis of all aspects of your financial life to help you see the big picture and enable us to personalize a plan for addressing every detail.Our principal belief is that everything begins with a well-designed financial plan. Were highly adept at seeing the big picture of your financial life, and then addressing all the details that make the plan work including identifying and resolving any gaps that may have previously been overlooked.At Raymond James, we have a straightforward approach to doing business. We believe that putting clients needs first is the best way to ensure their success and, in turn, the long-term success of our advisors and the company. We call this our Service 1stSM philosophy. With our strong focus on clients and our commitment to supporting those who serve them, weve become known as the premier alternative to Wall Street, providing the products, services and support of even the largest firms, within an environment that values strong, personal relationships.Raymond James focuses on doing what's right for its clients, associates and communities. And as you'll find in the firm's Corporate Responsibility Report, this commitment drives our mission to build a more sustainable future for all through environmental, social and governance best practices.Sticking to our core principles of client first, conservatism, independence and integrity, Raymond James has steadily grown to become one of the largest independent financial services firms in the industry, but our core values ensure well never be so big that we dont have time for what matters most: you and your family.The markets change, but our values will always be the same. Client first is at our core, supported by conservatism, independence and integrity.Erin Weber is a vice president of investments with Raymond James, for the office in Cranberry, Pennsylvania. She is a founding partner of the Weber Group, a team within a team approach, at Raymond James. Erin works alongside her father, Senior Vice President of Investments Al Weber. Along with assistant, Katie Burr, the team strives to give clients a comprehensive investment experience by providing a high level of service, through shared expertise, for the individual and institution. With over 30 years of financial experience, there is a strong likelihood the team has interacted or worked with someone in a situation very similar to yours.She holds both bachelors and masters degrees from The Pennsylvania State University, along with the Series 7 and 66 securities licenses. Erin is a licensed agent for life, accident and health insurance. She has her Executive Certificate in Financial Planning from Duquesne University and is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER practitioner. Erin also is a Certified Personal Finance Counselor professional and a member of the Financial Planning Association. She has presented at international, national and state conferences in the field of education and co-authored multiple papers in the area of maximizing educator effectiveness. Based on her background in educational innovations, Erin strongly believes that she can best assist individuals and families by helping them understand the concept and elements of financial planning.Erin is advisory board president of Pennsylvania State University, New Kensington, and has mentored professionals and students from multiple universities. She is guiding several initiatives to help women and college students become financially literate and is the Vice Chairman of the Center for Financial Literacy at Penn State Behrend. Erin is a member of the Womens Leadership Council for the United Way, and volunteers at The Center for Women, Pennsylvania Women Work and Strong Women, Strong Girls. Because of her significant involvement in helping and mentoring women, she was a 2020 ATHENA Award nominee.She is very active in the area of physical fitness and won an international video contest promoting a healthy lifestyle. Erin also enjoys golfing and is a life-long resident of the Pittsburgh area, currently residing in Wexford, Pennsylvania.