What to know about HSAs and FSAs

Perhaps you've heard the expression: Life is what happens when youre busy making other plans. Its certainly true about an unexpected job loss. And it may cause stress over your financial situation. Here are a handful of steps you can take shortly after the loss of employment to help put yourself in the best financial position. Some of these are time-sensitive, so the sooner you act, the better.File for unemployment While unemployment insurance typically covers less than half of your previous paycheck, it can provide some financial relief generally up to 26 weeks. Since filing a claim can be time-consuming, file immediately so payments begin as soon as possible. There are eligibility requirements, including your unemployment being involuntary and through no fault of your own, and meeting your states time worked and wage requirements. You can learn more about your states unemployment insurance program online. Adjust your budget and spending You'll likely require some changes to your budget, at least temporarily. Try to focus on the essentials, like housing, utilities and food, and see where you can cut costs or find cheaper alternatives on nonessentials, like coffee shops and entertainment. If youre saving for longer-term goals, like retirement or college, you may want to pause those contributions temporarily. Evaluate other sources of income In addition to any severance and unemployment payments, you can consider cashing in emergency or other savings and investment accounts. You could look for part-time work, which generally does not affect your unemployment insurance income as long as you're earning less than your unemployment benefits. Other possibilities are cashing in the value of insurance policies or annuities outside of surrender charge periods, accessing retirement accounts early, selling investments without taxable gains and borrowing money. Be aware that some of these options come with tax implications and fees. A financial advisor can help you navigate the trade-offs. Understand your HSA and FSA options Youll want to get the maximum benefit from your flexible spending account (FSA) and health savings account (HSA). The funds in an FSA are subject to a use-it-or-lose-it rule, generally within 60 days from termination. Consult your Summary Plan Description to understand how your FSA works and how to use your funds. Your HSA is yours to keep after leaving a company, and theres no deadline to use the funds. While you typically cant pay health insurance premiums from an HSA, there are exceptions for COBRA premiums and some other health insurance premiums if youre receiving federal or state unemployment benefits. Your plan administrator can help guide you. Ensure you have health insurance coverage Find out if your health benefits continue for any period and what is included. You generally can extend your employer's coverage up to 18 months under COBRA, though it's often expensive because you are liable for all monthly premiums. Joining your spouses or partners workplace plan could be an option, but you may only have 30 days to enroll. You can also look for coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace, a function of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), where lower-income households may qualify for subsidies. Learn more about ACA coverage at healthcare.gov.Whether your next step is moving into early retirement or finding new employment, working through these steps may help you feel more confident in your financial position and more prepared to take on whatever comes next.   Chad Choate III, AAMS828 3rd Avenue WestBradenton, FL 34205941-462-2445chad.chaote@edwardjones.com This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

How to Approach Tough Senior Move ConversationsGentle Talks That Open the Door to a Brighter Tomorrow Few conversations are as emotionally delicate as discussing a move with a senior loved one. Whether its downsizing to a smaller home, transitioning to assisted living, or clearing a longtime residence, these talks touch deep feelings of independence, memory, and identity. For many families, this moment is filled with uncertainty: How do we bring it up? Will they feel hurt or betrayed? What if they say no?At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we believe that these tender conversations, when handled with care and love, can become opportunities for connection and growth. With the right approach, families can honor their loved ones feelings while gently guiding them toward a new chapter of safety and peace.Start with Empathy, Not LogisticsLead with the heart, and the rest will follow.Before any talk of movers or packing, remember this: a seniors home is not just a building. Its a lifetime of memories, milestones, and meaning. That kitchen may hold memories of holiday dinners. That chair might be where Dad read his morning paper. A move often feels like leaving part of themselves behind.Here are heartfelt steps to begin the conversation:1. Choose the Right Time and PlaceAvoid rushing into the topic during a stressful or emotional moment. Find a quiet, private time when everyone is calm. This shows respect and allows space for open, honest communication.2. Listen First, Talk SecondAsk gentle questions like, How are you feeling about the house these days? or Is anything at home starting to feel overwhelming? Listening with compassion builds trustand trust makes future decisions easier.3. Acknowledge Their EmotionsSay things like, I know this is really hard, or I can see how much this home means to you. Validating their emotions shows them youre not just trying to make decisions for them, but with them.4. Focus on Their Well-BeingCenter the conversation on care and safety, not on whats convenient for the family. Share your concerns lovingly: I want you to feel safe when moving around the house, or We want to make sure youre comfortable and supported every day.Build a Plan Together, One Gentle Step at a TimeEmpowerment is the bridge between fear and acceptance.Once the initial conversation has opened the door, its time to move forwardbut slowly, and with full inclusion. Seniors who feel part of the planning process are more likely to accept and embrace the move.1. Make a Family PlanGather key family members and involve the senior. Together, outline a general timeline, and identify roles. Who will help with packing? Who will handle paperwork? Make sure the seniors voice is front and center.2. Consider Professional SupportThis is where A Call to Order Professional Organizer comes in. We help remove overwhelm by guiding seniors and families through every phase of the move. Our team offers compassionate, step-by-step assistancefrom organizing and downsizing to setting up their new home with care.3. Take Breaks and Celebrate ProgressEmotionally heavy tasks like sorting through a lifetime of belongings can take a toll. Build in regular breaks. Reflect on joyful memories. Celebrate small wins, like donating gently used items to a local charity or passing heirlooms down to grandchildren.4. Tour New Spaces TogetherIf the move includes a transition to assisted living or a smaller home, visit the new space together. Talk about how to make it feel cozy and familiar. Bring their favorite chair or family photos. Let them dream a little about decorating or setting up a new routine.Loving Conversations Build Stronger FuturesApproaching a senior move isnt easybut it doesnt have to be heartbreaking. With tenderness, patience, and the right support, these conversations can lead to safer environments, simpler living, and a renewed sense of peace.At A Call to Order, we believe in honoring the emotional side of every move. Were here to help families bridge the gap between I cant imagine leaving and Im ready for whats next.Lets make this transition togetherwith love, understanding, and a plan made just for your family. Ready to talk about a senior move with kindness and clarity?Visit www.acalltoorderco.com or call 719-231-5425.Because every move deserves more than just boxesit deserves a soft place to land.FOLLOW US and stay inspired as you simplify and transition with love: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/acalltoorderco/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ACalltoOrder Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acalltoorderco/

Sterling Life Solutions is proud to be featured in the Seniors Blue Book of South Central PA for our compassionate and full-service approach to senior move management, estate cleanouts, and downsizing. Based in Reading, we support families across Berks County and beyond with personalized planning, packing, donation coordination, and moreall handled by our in-house team with no subcontractors.Our recent feature helps connect more families to the services they need during lifes major transitions. Were honored to be recognized as a trusted partner and invite you to explore our services or schedule a consultation. Call 484-220-3743 or visit www.sterlinglifesolutions.com