For many parents, one of the biggest financial questions they face is: How much should I actually be saving for my child’s college education? The answer depends on a variety of factors, including the type of school your child may attend, their current age, and how early you begin saving. But one thing is clear — college costs have risen dramatically over time. College Costs Have Outpaced Nearly Everything Else Since 1983, the cost of college tuition has increased over 900% ,

Most people check their 401(k) balance periodically, especially when markets are volatile or when a quarterly statement hits their inbox, but far fewer take the time to look beneath the surface and understand what is actually inside the account. Your 401(k) is likely one of the largest financial assets you own outside of your home, yet many investors cannot confidently explain: Their stock vs. bond allocation Which specific funds they hold What those funds cost in internal fe

Trump Accounts: A New Long-Term Savings Option for Children Trump Accounts are a new federally authorized savings and investment option designed to give American children an early start on long-term financial growth. Introduced as part of a broader economic initiative tied to America’s 250th anniversary, these accounts aim to expand access to investing, promote ownership, and encourage long-term savings from birth. Trump Accounts combine features of both an IRA and a custodia

The IRS has released the updated retirement contribution limits for 2026, including new thresholds for 401(k)s, IRAs, SIMPLE plans, and income phase-outs. These annual cost-of-living adjustments give savers an opportunity to increase tax-advantaged contributions and strengthen long-term retirement strategies. Below is a breakdown of the key changes for 2026 and what they may mean for your financial planning. 401(k), 403(b), 457 & Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) For those contributi

Retirement isn’t a single number or a one-time decision—it’s the result of many factors working together. At Whitener Capital Management, we call this “The Retirement Equation.” This equation highlights the different forces that shape your financial future. Some are entirely within your control, others you can influence, and some you simply can’t control at all. That’s where financial planning becomes essential—it’s the framework that helps bring all these moving parts togeth

Each year, September carries a reputation for being one of the more challenging months for the markets. Historically, from 1950 to 2024 ,...

A financial plan is more than a snapshot of your current finances—it’s a roadmap that helps you answer life’s biggest money questions...

At Whitener Capital , we keep a close eye on legislation that affects your retirement income — and 2025 is shaping up to bring some big...

What Is a Fiduciary — And Why It Matters for Your Financial Future When it comes to managing your wealth, trust is everything. But how do...